TGP: Day 5

Day 5:

August 5, 2011

It seems each day is holding innumerable blessings - it makes me wonder how or why I could ever justifiably complain about ANYTHING.

If I were to choose just one reason today - to give thanks, it would be for Em.  As parents, we've wanted desperately for our children to grow up, avoiding some of the pitfalls we've fallen into - yet, embracing and experiencing a love like WGH and I have found in each other.   As I stated yesterday, our "little boy" married his beautiful bride about a year ago.  He may be serving our country thousands of miles away right now - but he has an amazing, devoted wife at home.  She is lovingly supporting him from afar. 

Don't let her beautiful exterior deceive you - she is a very strong, determined young woman, which seems critical - especially for a military wife.

During their engagement, T was on a 7 month deployment to Afghanistan.  As a machine gunner, he was on the front lines and experienced war up close and personal.  Meanwhile, back at home with her parents, his Bride-to-be was going to college full time and rallying all kinds of prayer and "care package" support.  Em was diligent herself in creating not just "care packages" - but what I'd consider "works of art."  She didn't simply cram snacks, socks and toiletries into boxes - but she decorated the inside of the boxes, making each one special - marking special occasions and reminding him of special memories they shared.  She made my son feel special....and connected to home, and deeply connected to her. 

Now they are married, she is still working on her degree - and continuing to mail him phenomenal care packages, but she's also taking care of their home in his absence.  Not least of all - she's caring for their much loved 70lb black lab PUPPY - "Gunner."

Having the opportunity to spend several hours with her this evening, I'm reminded of the gift she is to our family.  Too easily, her loving support of our son could be taken for granted.  I am immensely grateful for Em...for her faith, her character and the incredible way she loves my "little boy."   Wars aren't just fought on the battlefield - we must not overlook the supportive wives who are making sacrifices and loving our sons in a way most will never understand.  War is Hell...no matter if you are the one with the weapon - or the one at home with "Gunner." 

Hang in there Em.... I've always loved you and have appreciated your loyalty to T.  I know it's hard sometimes - but some of these "difficult seasons" will serve to make you a stronger, more unified couple in the long run.  You are a gift and a blessing to Tyler - and to our entire family.  I am so very thankful for you....and for his decision to make you his Bride.  You love him well - what more could a mom hope for in a daughter-in-law?

Thanks for blessing me.  I love you.