It was a snowy winter morning as families gathered in an open airplane hanger for the arrival of the 142nd MI Battalion. We arrived early,...and so did the blue and red Southwest Airliner, carrying the eagerly awaited cargo. Now we only waited for Jeff to make his way off from the back of the plane. Marin was crying, cold and tired, having been up since 1:30 am. She hesitantly asked if Daddy was going to stay with us for long. Our last good-bye, after two weeks together in August, had been so difficult for her. She sobbed the deepest sobs that day that I have ever heard from a child. I could do nothing but hold her tight. Since then she dared not believe that he would actually come home again, and stay.
Now, soon enough, joy would equal and replace our sorrow. I sat, holding her tight, watching the snowflurries speckle the dark sky, lit only by the lights of the open hanger. We didn't wait long as minutes later Jeff joined us in joyful, tearful hugs. The reunion was filled with far deeper, richer, and greater joy than our first union (our wedding). As we hugged and kissed and drank each other in, brimming with tears, it truly felt like sacred ground. I don't believe I have ever in my life felt such incredible relief, gratitude, joy, and love. Words can't fully describe the emotions we all felt.
It has truly been a sacrifice for all 3 of us, as Jeff has been deployed or traveling on military business for most of the last 3 years. We certainly hope that it is a long time before deployment strikes again, but still, we always have to be ready for anything,... seriously. If you're "military", you'll know exactly what that means.
Stars and Stripes, Sacrifice and Freedom
Anxious Anticipation
What a Sight For Sore Eyes!
"Marin, look it's Daddy!"
First Moment in Daddy's Arms, Not Yet Believing It's for Real.
First Embrace
Whole Again
Words Just Can't Describe
Long Awaited Lip Lock
A Joyful Dance (those were tough roses to survive that!)
Dad Gets Pummeled With Kisses!
Jeff, Emily and Marin
13 years ago
4 comments:
YEAH!!!!!
I didn't realize he was going home to Utah, I thought you guys lived in the East somewhere.
The funny thing is that just the other day I was watching video news clips on KSL and I watched the one where Jeff's unit was coming home. I AWAYS cry when I watch the reunions! I don't think I will ever be able to watch one without shedding a few tears for all those who have to endure these hard times of separation.
I am sooo glad he's back and can't wait to hear where you're first official duty station (as active duty) will be! Keep me posted!
I am in tears! How wonderful to be reunited. I am always touched by Jeff stories through Vickie's e-mails. You are a beautiful family. Thank you so much for sacrificing for me and our country. YAY! Jeff is home! :)
I'm so happy for you guys! I started crying while I was reading your description, Emily. You described it perfectly. Nothing made me prouder than seeing Ben home, safe and sound, after doing his job diligently. That's wonderful! Now, I think I'll do a happy dance too, in your honor!
Tears...that's all I can say!
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