There are many things about military life which I am grateful. I am most grateful for the inability to become complacent. Military families spend so much time apart that it's difficult to take each other or our time for granted. We don't take family, friends, or awesome neighbors for granted. We know in six months our lives will most likely be turned upside down and everything will change. It may seem like a high price to pay but this lifestyle makes you concentrate on what is important. I do appreciate it. I hope our children carry this with them as they grow and eventually move forward in their lives.
I am grateful this lifestyle makes us brave. When transplanted to a new state or country rarely do military families sit and wait for someone else to show them the ropes. If you want some BBQ in LA then you go find BBQ in LA. If while stationed overseas you want to explore but your spouse is deployed, then you get a map and hop a train and pack lots of water, snacks, foreign currency, and a translation book (just in case). Because it is inevitable... you will get lost. And that same bravery is perfect for approaching deployment head on!
I am grateful I got these kiddos to keep me company. They make me happy, they make me laugh, they push my buttons, and make me feel like I'm going crazy. But we have a pretty tight bond and we've got each other's back. And those two little boys are best buds and it's pretty cool to watch.
I am grateful for my husband. Mostly because he is just a good guy. He lets me get away with just about anything and goes along with just about anything. It's hard to say goodbye but it's only temporary.
Good Luck to your husband! I hope his time there comes by fast.
ReplyDeleteHey Nicole... "better late that never', you said on the SITS site and I totally agree. Glad I was right behind you, being a "late-comer" poster.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post; your gratitude post! How sweet! I even got a little misty-eyed while I was reading it. You have a beautiful family and I love that you love them so much that you've taken the time to stop to remember to be grateful for each one of them.
I'm grateful too, Nicole. Although my life looks completely different from yours (it's just me and my little baby-dog, Pete -- he's a Chihuahua), I'm super grateful too. I have my health and strength, and God provides for me bountifully.
Thank you for reminding me to "stop and smell the roses", remembering what's most important. Have a wonderful week ahead...
Godspeed.
Best of luck with the departure and the return. I don't come from a military family but I admire those who do. You're right, those with military backgrounds seize the moments when friends and family are near. So often it is taken for granted. Thanks for the reminder, and God bless you and your family!
ReplyDeleteThanks all!
ReplyDeleteI'm from a military family, but didn't have to go through the deployments with my dad. I cannot fathom that and have a huge respect for families that do experience it. I am journeying with a friend right now dealing with a deployment in the next few weeks as well as other marital issues. I can only imagine the strain. May your family be blessed with peace and strong love across the seas to keep you strong as you are separated.
ReplyDeleteThank you Leah. I wish the best for your friend. Deployment alone is stressful but marital strife on top of it= TOUGH TIMES! She is lucky to have the support of your friendship.
Delete*hugs* to you as you start a time of separation :( It is hard to be without them but this life does make us brave! I have done some pretty amazing things when my husband has been gone. Things I thought I would never do.
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie. I hope to have something amazing to share with him when he returns.
DeleteThank you so much for sharing this post. I can't imagine being away from my husband for such an extended period of time but it looks like a beautiful family to keep you company. I like this post as a "gratitude" journal. As I talk about in my blog and upcoming book, sometimes we take things for granted and forget to stop and enjoy the time with our family and loved ones. I think I might need to start something similar.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes to you and your family. Wishing your husband a safe journey.
Sigh. This made me sad, even though your positive attitude shines forth so brightly! I wish him a speedy return! And I'm so thankful to him for defending our country.
ReplyDeleteThank you Liz and Melissa. I know the topic is sad but REALLY I am grateful for sooo much. Like email, so happy we can communicate with email and not have to rely solely on snail mail. Although, I am definitely going to be writing my share of letter this year.
DeleteNicole, I am not a blogger (until now, that is), but when you told me about your blog on the phone last night, I wanted to see what it's all about. I can't tell you how proud I am to call you my daughter. Your wisdom, your strength, your humor, your faith... all come through so clearly in your writings. God bless you and keep you, Darin and the kids safe and sane for the time you are apart. I love you all.
ReplyDeleteYay! You found it! Thank you for your love and support. The gratitude journal is always something you encouraged me to keep, way back when. I just didn't know how important and perspective-changing it would be years ago! Love you!
DeleteMy dear your gratitude is a continual inspiration...sending you and yours my best!
ReplyDeleteThank you.
DeleteWhat a thoughtful and authentic blog! Thank you for that. As a mom but a non-military family it gives me insight into that life and a reminder to not take things for granted. Thoughts to you and your family and your husband! Sincere gratitude for his service being sent through the wires.
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by.
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