Again, a busy week so no blog update. I'll try to do better now that we can no longer send mail Bryan's way. This week I've been busy putting together care packages and writing cards and letters. Knowing I can't send him something he needs is a little overwhelming. I keep thinking of things I should have sent and now can't. But I think he'll be ok. Our friends and family REALLY came through. And even friends of friends sent him boxes. I won't say how many are on the way to Q-West, Iraq because I want it to be a surprise to Bryan and his men. However, I will say that the Postmaster in Alamo, TN asked someone bringing in boxes on Saturday if those were for Bryan Hayes! Thanks to all of you who've made the effort to send him packages or letters. I wish I could explain how much it means to him. And thank you for including your children in your efforts and teaching them the importance of appreciating our military men and women. It's just good stuff. These boxes will arrive just in time, too. The DFAC (dining facility) closes next weekend. Therefore, the only food he'll have is what we've sent him and MRE's (meals ready to eat). I've seen these MRE's and yuck! God bless them for eating them.
Bryan had a very busy week. He had several missions and sometimes two in one day. Being a 2LT means he has to plan them as well. It's pretty stressful at times. I got an email Wednesday and the subject was "a song". He'd found a few minutes to write and I was elated. The name of it is "Southern Rain". I read the words and cried. It's about being home and having that southern rain cleansing his soul. It's so true. That's exactly what it does. When it rains here at home, he and I will stand on the porch, look across the lake, and soak it all in. Oh, how I miss those moments. I pray those memories bring him comfort while he's so far from home.
I got a good laugh while talking to him early in the week. He said his guys informed him it was "Mustache May" and they'd appreciate it if he participated! Oh my goodness...a mustache. HE HATES IT! He says it's gone on 01 June at midnight! I can't really get a good look at it when we skype. It just looks like he has dirt on his lip. Then yesterday when I was talking to him I heard a lot of hollering outside his window. I asked what it was and he said soldiers playing corn hole. He said some of the men found some wood and made it. He said, "soldiers are very resourceful". I love knowing they're able to find humor and have some fun during their deployment. Does this Army wife's heart good!
I'm sure you are all wondering why mail is ending, the dfac is closing, etc. They aren't going to a new FOB...they're coming home! I can't give the exact date but it's before September 1st. PRAISE THE LORD! I've known for a while, but I've also learned to expect and accept change. For now it looks promising. Thank you for all of the prayers. And please keep them coming. There are still lots of missions to run. Knowing he's coming home is such a relief, but I still miss him so much it hurts. Really, it does. We're both so thankful it won't be too much longer. Again, thank you, Lord!
Love to you all.
I won't even say I understand how you feel Angela, because I don't but I do know this...God's love lifts all burdens and gives meaning to everything. I can plainly see how much you love your soldier and think it is wonderful how you do so much for him and to bring awareness to everyone through what you do. Our country needs to recognize and appreciate EVERY sacrifice that not only they make, but the sacrifices that the families of these soldiers make as well. Time with loved ones is such a precious thing that can never be replaced but yet soldiers and their families make such a sacrifice for the freedoms that we sometimes take for granted. Their sacrifices aren't only their own, but their family's as well. No soldier who is overseas is there alone--their family is there with them as well and sacrificing along with them. So you tell your hubby thank you for all he is doing and thank you to you too Angela. I know it is difficult and I will be keeping you both in my prayers. Great blog by the way! Keep it up!!!
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