Cherishing the Moments

          We are in the no-man's-land between Matt's long TDY and his upcoming deployment.  I find this period challenging for many reasons, but for me, the biggest challenge is learning to appreciate each moment we're together.  Sure, this doesn't sound like it should be hard, but you'd be surprised at how easy it is to focus on the other part - the fact that he's leaving in a few weeks and will be gone for months.  We can easily get caught up in our "to do" lists, too, trying to get everything done before he leaves.  I know I'm going to miss Matt whole heartedly while he's gone, but right now, I REALLY want to savor the time we have together...to enjoy each other and enjoy our kids.  We had a chance to do that this past weekend, and I'm praying that we'll continue to just enjoy the time together until Matt actually has to leave.

          This past Friday, we had a baby sitter for the girls.  Matt and I dressed up in our Korea party suits (outfits specially made to represent our squadron - the 36th Fighter Squadron, the Fiends, Harrumph!! - while we were stationed in Korea) and headed to Columbia for a Korea Party.  We ate dinner at a Korean restaurant, had some bulgogi and kimchi, then headed downtown to socialize and hang out.  Who would have ever guessed that we'd be wearing our party suits out in downtown Columbia, SC?

          On Saturday morning, Matt sent me out for a mommy morning.  I met two dear friends for coffee at our favorite local coffee shop and bakery.  We then headed to a spa for a morning of bliss.  I enjoyed a facial, a massage, and a pedicure before the morning was over.  The time to myself was amazing, and I felt completely refreshed as we headed back to my house.  When we got to the house, we enjoyed a BBQ lunch and got a beautiful bouquet of flowers!  Thank you, Matt, for loving me so well and for giving me a wonderful gift.  I love you!

          The rest of the weekend was perfect.  We played together as a family, enjoying moments outside in the fresh spring air.  We enjoyed church on Sunday morning and spent the rest of the day relaxing and laughing together as a family.  The weekend was beautiful because we were together.  My heart is full, and I am so thankful.