4 down 8 to go

Four months ago we said goodbye.

It's hard to believe that if this had been a four month deployment he'd be on his way home now. But, we press on. The penny jars are a little lighter, fall is just around the corner, and we've made it to football season. All summer I've told myself that if I can make it to football season I'll be ok. Well, it's here, and now I've started to say if I can just make it to my birthday and Christmas I'll be ok.

The "newness" of being with Nana, Poppy and her cousins has worn off, and Bella is really missing her Daddy. I am so glad that she loves him so much, and remembers how much he loves her and how much fun they have together. We often talk about all the fun we'll have when he comes home.

More than anything I am thankful. Even though Steve is gone for this year, which is so hard, I am confident that he'll arrive home safely. Many families don't have that. I think of our dear friend Scott, who lost his Rachel in April. He is now a single father. I think of all of the husbands, wives, mothers and fathers who have lost loved ones this past month in Afghanistan. Oh how thankful I am that Steve is where he's at. If you know of a single parent I urge you to send them a note of encouragement or offer to help them out in one way or another. Their job is so very hard.

I am thankful that Isabella and Jack are doing so well. I love that they can adapt to all different situations. They are true military children, and I believe that they are better for it.

I am thankful for my parents and brother & sister-in-law who are so incredibly helpful and encouraging. I couldn't have made it through this long year without them!

Lastly, I am thankful for a wonderful church home the kids and I have here in Indiana. I am thankful, more than anything, that Steve and I have both grown so much closer to our Heavenly Father through this experience.

Thank you to everyone for all your love and support! 4 months down, 8 to go.