(From Lisa to Jennifer Jackson)
Hi Jennifer,
I would like to state for the record that I am not good at this sort of thing. Please feel free to go through this and tweak as you may. I kept putting it off thinking it would all come to me. But, it didn't. I am just not good at writing about myself and always go on and on about my family. I think I may have done it again. haha. Thanks for the opportunity to introduce myself to the group (even though I've been here for two years already!) Also, thank you for the early birthday wishes. The anwer is yes I have amazing plans...we are going to Venice, Italy for the week!! Yeah! Here's the stuff about me....
I was born in Delaware but raised right outside of Philadelphia, Pa. I am the oldest daughter in a family of 8 children. I have two older brothers, two younger brothers and 3 younger sisters. I love being a part of a big crazy family. I was often given lots of responsiblity from a very early age. This made me a bit of a natural leader as well as a person that likes to be in control. Not always a good thing, but not always bad. It also made me grow up quickly. I have always been the mature, responsible "mom." I'm a nurturer by heart and always looking out for everyone. My parents are still together after 37 years and my mother is my hero. I love talking with her and hanging out with her. Learning from her. I am the person I am today because of the women in my life. My mother, my Nana, my sisters and my best friends.
While growing up I did a lot of the typical things. I ran track, I danced ballet, I worked. I always had a lot of things to do and a lot of things expected of me. I was given much responsibilty from an early age. I often had to help with the care of siblings and of course, the chore list was very long. I always had my parents trust, but it wasn't until I graduated from high school, in 1992, that I really tasted my first bit of freedom. I went to Temple University for two years and between my classes and working I realized I hated it. So, I joined the Air Force.
I met my husband, John while we were both stationed at McGuire AFB, NJ. He was in the hospital and a friend we had in common asked me to join her in visiting him. I did and the rest is history. We were married only a few short months later. We have gone from McGuire to The Azores Islands, to Oklahoma, to Bolling AFB, DC. Now we are here for another two years. Along the way I left the military to be the stereotypical stay at home, military spouse. John and I have three children now. Victoria is 12, Michael is 10 and William is 6. They are my life. I love being their mom and am thankful I was able to stay home with them. I recently returned to work part time with my youngest starting school. I've enjoyed the extra freedom but still revolve my life around my children. I wouldn't choose it any other way. Of all the things I've done, being a wife and mother is my favorite, and the thing I believe I do best.
While John and I have been stationed here we have really enjoyed the travel and exploration of new places. We love taking our children and showing them our world. They don't always get as excited about it as I am but by the time we leave a new place they have grown some sort of appreciation for it. We have many more trips planned for the next two years. I am looking forward to them all. When we leave Geilenkirchen we will have one year left in the states until John retires. I am anxious for this and still not wishing my current days away. I cherish each and every day knowing they make us who we are. It will be so nice to plant our roots and stay still for a little while. Victoria will start high school that year and it will be good for her and the boys to finish school in one spot. That was our goal and something I am so thrilled about.
As far as hobbies and things I enjoy, I don't really know how to answer that. I like almost anything. I enjoy trying everything. I am an all-around kind of person. I love traveling and exploring new places. I do really enjoy reading too, and when I start a book I can't put it down until I'm done. I also enjoy coffee,quiet nights, and talking with friends. Of course, I can always trade the coffee in for a nice glass (or bottle) of wine. I am fortunate to have 3 best friends at this point in my life. I have learned that without good, strong women in our lives to support us, life is quite hard and not as fulfilling.
Here are your other questions:
Living here in GK has been a blessing. We took the assignment as a special duty because we felt John would be safe from deploying since he is now part of NATO. Past assignments have been revolving doors for John. The second he returned he was leaving again. On top of that he was finishing his education and worked crazy shifts. It is really nice to have him on regular shifts with no TDY's so we can take full advantage of all the wonderful things to see and do here in Europe.
One fact that is not commonly known about me is that my mother home schooled me. I was home schooled until 11th grade.
If I was a superhero I would want to be called supermom. I would like to be able to fly and help all the children that are suffering. I know, I know, it sounds so corny, but it's true. I collect nieces and nephews left and right!
Thanks again,
Lisa Cerrito
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