on the home front.

this time, a year and a month ago, we were sitting in my car on base going over last minute details, holding hands and kissing when the silence led on for too long.

my heart will never forget the prickles of pain, the brick like heaviness or claustrophobic tightness that came with kissing my husband goodbye. we had been preparing our lives for six months of separation, of ridiculous phone bills, odd hour skype dates, and living in different time zones half a world a way. 

to be on the other side; where last year i lost my husband for a spell, and this year we're bringing a new life into the world - it's rather mind boggling. and having him home, even as mundane as day in and day out can get, it is and will always be my heart's desire. 

but i know that sacrifice of time all too well it feels, and my heart breaks for my dear friends who are saying goodbye to their husbands. to the ones who have already left, and to the ones preparing to go here soon... you have my sincerest empathy.

to even attempt to recall the endless months. the depression, the tears, the late nights, the missed calls, the gaping hole inside, the single parent role. those are days that i don't wish on anyone. and though i know it best, that no body can fill a husband's time or shoes, i'm here for you just as you were all there for me. to help past the time. to laugh or cry you through whatever storms may come. 

to see you through, to the other side of time, when husbands hold their wives and daddies hold their babies and families are complete once again.

♥

deployment in photos: 

navy lego daddy.

good night kisses.

lunch dates.

family skypes.

daddy's sailor.

father's day abroad.

bulgaria.

birthday present secrets.

weekend routines.

home at last.