Half Way

The beginning of June marks a very important benchmark--we are halfway through the deployment. Matt is expected to be home anytime between August 24th and September 15th. I have so many emotions--I could not be happier and more relieved yet I know we still have a ways to go. As Matt says every time I talk to him "One day at a time". He is in the business of day to day survival and I think what gets me through is looking ahead to the finish line. He always tells me that when he hits his pillow at the end of the day, he is grateful for one more day down, one more day when his guys are safe.

This Memorial Day held very special meaning for me and Matt's family. This year, the day was less about a work-free day and BBQ, but a day of reflection and grateful appreciation. I was able to share Memorial Day with Matt in 2010-- we watched the ceremony at Arlington and the laying of the wreath on the tomb on the unknown soldier. Matt was a civilian in 2010. This year, I was alone, watching the same ceremony, awestruck by the places life will take us. This year, I felt connected to the much larger Army and Military community. We all share in the experience of loving our soldiers, our airmen, marines, national guardsman. I am amazed by the courage, strength and conviction of this community.

 Many wives, parents, children and friends are awaiting the homecoming of the 4th Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division this summer. We wait patiently, with hope, faith and tremendous love for our soldiers.