soccer and seriousness

I didn't forget, I never will. But first a post about some happier things. 

Yesterday, Ethan started soccer. If the weather stays like this, I might start liking soccer. :) 

After some playing around, Elliott and I sat down. This picture just makes me smile.

Today was their first game. Ethan went out with full force.  

He had some great shots that didn't quite make it. 

But, believe it or not, I actually caught a goal, on camera. YAY!

He takes the ball. 

And runs with it. 

He takes aim! 

Fires! 

And.........in!

He had a great game.  

Now the seriousness. 

Being part of the military family, we get to show support for each other through the good and the bad. 

This week has been the good. Several families were reunited with their loved ones after a long year. Elliott and I have been to 2 arrivals. We were late for the first one, and the second one was super early and we missed it too. Ugh. Today, after Ethan's game, we headed over, hoping to catch this one. 

It was a great welcome home. The police and fire trucks led the plane in while everyone cheered. Such an amazing sight on a day like today. 

I can tell you where I was, when I found out, and what I did 10 years ago today, but I had no idea that day would be impacting my life today. 

Ethan wasn't born yet, heck, we weren't even married yet. Nothing at that point in our lives could have told me that in 10 years, I would be surviving our second year long deployment while Jason serves for our country. To be honest, I didn't even really think that day would be etched into my memory so vividly. I had no idea of the significance of that day.

Seeing those soldiers return safely today gave me such a sense of pride (and in my head, it was like giving our enemies the finger). We are so lucky to live in a country where people we have never met, may never meet, and will likely never have the chance to thank, stand up and volunteer their lives to fight for our freedom and keep us safe everyday. 

While it was bitter sweet to celebrate with them, and not have our hero with us, it was the perfect way to spend our evening.  

So to all those who have given, and all the families who sacrifice........

Thank You. From the bottom of my heart.

And to my hero, I couldn't be more proud of you.