Wednesday, January 12, 2011

And the Official, Official Word Is...

Katie posted that it's official...she's off to Afghan. Now, this is good and bad news. Good, because as most of you know she's been having some health issues and now they are resolved and she is deemed healthy, and bad because she's going to a war torn and dangerous place.

I'm not quite sure how to feel about this, yet. I find myself angry, worried, happy (because she's healthy) and very, very, scared. I know she'll be alright. I know that. Still that mothering instinct is to run after her and steal away her M14 to protect her. Funny thing is, she'd be the one who could protect me now. There's a flip for ya.

Doesn't make it any easier...

Thursday, January 6, 2011

A Touch of the Blues...er Army Greens

WOW! It's been a hard, taxing and long morning/day. It started out with the "hurry-ups" and the "we're going to be lates." It ended with a goodbye and a lot of tears.

I can't describe the feeling of sending your child into one of the most dangerous places on earth. I can't begin to help anyone who hasn't had this experience to understand it. It's not possible. All I can tell you is it's scary, sad, and well, to be honest, a bit exciting!

Truly, I am excited for Katie. She will see a part of the world I never will. She will meet people, experience things and do things I never will. That old Army motto of "Be All That You Can Be" is bouncing around in my head as I think of all the great things that are in store for my little girl--the little girl who is a married woman and not so little anymore. I am thinking of the old commercials about adventure and seeing places. It's true and she will have spectacular stories to share. I can't wait to hear them.

And though she's gone and my heart hurts from missing her and from the natural worry of motherhood, I know, inexplicably, that she will be fine. I know that this "adventure" is going to make her into an incredibly stronger and more courageous woman. I am proud of my daughter, my son and my son-in-law. All three of them are incredible Soldiers who amaze me. I am grateful for them.


Can a heart be more full? Probably, but mine is bursting with pride from these three young people. And in a year, it will be a sweet reunion for all of us. In a short year, we will all have each other again.