Joel’s Daddy will be home soon.

Not for long, but for long enough.

The moments remaining to prepare his arrival are few and panicked and thus I shall be mopping floors, steam cleaning carpets, combing the company service board and packing instead of blogging.

I hope to return in just a few days, but that guy keeps me hopping when he’s here so I make no promises. I do, however, promise that I will enjoy his visit and send him off to his next assignment fully loaded with kisses and hugs and the knowledge that the home front will be well kept in his stead.

He is finishing a very tough class and is soon off to a very important more difficult one. We are eternally grateful for the exceptional training he attends; it is the key not only to success in the field, but the safety of everyone on his team. That being said, there are grueling moments ahead for my fearless hero, and lonely moments for those of us tending the home fires. As always, your support is welcomed and so immensely appreciated.

If you see a soldier, tell them thanks. You may be surprised how well you are received and the impact of your simple words. I know that guy soon rolling the highways with me has had his day made by multiple strangers who pull on his arm and say “Thank you for your service” with deep eyes and full hearts. It is all worth it, but that doesn’t make it easy.

Best to you friends, I’ll return soon with more nonsense and fluff and perhaps a fleeting glimpse at clarity. Enjoy your weekend and sing a carol or two for me.