Saying see ya later....

           We weren't very prepared for this deployment. In fact, we were almost certain that Mark would be staying here & had specific duties already tasked to him. That's the thing about us, we've learned in the 13+ years that nothing is CERTAIN in the Army. He got word the same day that he found out he was on the promotion list for 7. What a way to pick you up and drag ya down at the same time, right? WELL, guess what... we weren't shocked, and decided not to announce any of it, because it could change AGAIN! So we took leave, grabbed up the kiddos & His parents, and took us a little vacation for some family time before his trip. You can spend as much time as you want together, but at the moment when his bags are packed up & sent off that it was NOT enough time. There you are on your way to the drop off sight, you realize how quick this time just went by and silently pray that the next 9 months go by just as quick.

             

           When we get to the company, Mark thinks he's gonna be slick by making me think he's being dropped off around the corner. This, in his head, ensures that he won't have to stretch out that time where everyone is crying and so sad because daddy is leaving. Well, I do know better sitting in an empty parking lot, and drive around to the back where they have weapons draw, just because THAT good-bye wasn't enough, and I know we can hang out with him for just another few minutes. This gives us time to dry up our eyes and calm down so he can keep his "game face" when he sees us again and has to leave our side, AGAIN.

              

            So, up until this point, Lexie has been fine with the idea of daddy leaving. I guess in her head, he leaves a lot, so why would this be any different. Well, some flip switched in this child when we had to drop him off, and all of a sudden, THIS WAS NOT OK! She cried, and i cried, and poor Kyle tried to hold it together for both of us because when daddy leaves, he is "the man of the house". I brought them home and we all climbed in my bed. It took a while, but Lexie finally cried most of it out and gave up. She was out with 2 t-shirts in a death grip that daddy had worn earlier that day. All kids handle this differently :/ I'm pretty lucky.

         

             Now, they're asleep. I lay there a little overwhelmed about the next 9 months, because this is only the first night of many that we will endure. The first couple days are just travel for the soldier. A lot of sleepless plane trips here and there until they arrive at their destination. So the worry hasn't kicked in yet. That won't happen until I get word that he's made it to his location. Then it does. Then as much as they beg you not to, you set your TV to news channels, and start taking notes. You aren't only worried about your soldier, but his friends as well. The wives of his soldiers and friends that I'm friends with, and currently, my extended family. I have a super strength on my side. I have God. I pray, and will everyday, knowing that its all up to him. Knowing that he has a reason for all of this, and I have to make the most of whatever that may be. I pray for Mark's strength, and for many other things.

   

     If you plan on following my blog, here's a few things you should know....
* I have no intention of receiving criticism. Keep it to yourself.
* I am FAR from perfect, so if you're offended by an occasional slip of the tongue or strange humor, you probably shouldn't read it.
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