I am crushed, empty, and saddened to write this post, but reality has come to where we have to say goodbye. Yesterday, I said goodbye to the love of my life for another six (or so) months as he heads back to Afghanistan to complete his mission. It took everything in me yesterday not to cry, but that quickly shattered as I held him tightly knowing that I would not embrace his hug again for what seems like eternity. It was even harder to see him say goodbye to our son who he loves more then anything in this world. I have very rarely seen my husband cry, but I visibly saw his heart ache as we drove away for the airport. It was a very emotional day, but I am thankful that we are now on the downhill slide of this journey. It's been extremely hard to be apart, but we know that god has a plan for us and we will praise him for his glory in our lives.
Love is a very powerful word, and I know it's not enough to explain the bond I have with my husband and son. My husband is my soul mate, my best friend, and love for life. Even though it's hard to be without him, I am very honored to call him my husband. He is fighting for a cause, and passion for his country. He believes in the foundation of freedom and security. He is one that I admire for his strength and desire to make a change. He truly is my hero!
Joel, even though we are not together today or in the days to come, I want you to know that I think of you always. I dream of you while I sleep and when I wake I smile at the thought of your love you have for your family. I am extremely thankful to have you as my husband, friend, and father to our son. We are very proud of you and can't wait to see you come home for good. Until then, know that we are here remaining strong and with open arms. We will see you soon my love. I miss you already!
To our family and friends....Thank you for loving and supporting us through this hard time. Your grace has allowed us to call home in both Kentucky and Washington. Your support whether large or small means the world to us and we are forever thankful for to you.
With love,
Stephanie
8 comments:
Oh, friend. I'm so sorry you have to endure the pain of separation. I am so grateful for Joel's and your sacrifice for my family. My brother is deploying to Iraq in a couple of weeks and I had to say goodbye to him on Saturday...never easy. But I can't imagine how tough it must be when it's your soulmate and father of your child. Hang in there, girl. I'm so glad your time together was so wonderful. :)
God speed Joel, God speed.
We will have you in our prayers everyday until your return to Steph and Austin. Much love for you my brother.
Love and Prayers,
Tim
Praying for you!!
what a beautiful post stephanie!! the picture is gorgeous, and I am thinking of you!!
I love the photo of you two!
My hubby will be going to Afghanistan in 2010. He's getting the prep work and training done this year.
The hardest thing is to say goodbye!
I'll be thinking of you, Joel and Austin.
email me if you need to talk or vent!
Vanessa
Aww so sweet..Steve come back in September, so we still have more than 4 months to go. I added the follow me button to my page now, so I think you can add me now. I'm still new to the blogging thing, so bear with me!
I just wanted to let you know that I gave you a blog award come pick it up at my blog!
Vanessa
What a sweet post.
I appreciate everything your hubby is doing for us.
He's in our thoughts and prayers.
Take care,
B Dad
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