Zoe Says Photography

Personal: D is for Faith. 

The D word. Deployment. For months we knew it was coming, but you push it to the back of your mind. And refer to it as the D word. Unspoken of. Completely ignored. But when it comes. And it WILL come, it slaps you. Hard. 

Monday morning I woke up at 2 am and put my strong face on. For my husband, and my daughter. Everything we needed was in the car waiting and we just needed to go. David got Zoe from her crib and talked to her as he got her dressed. This is the last time he would she her the just way she was in that point in time. 11 months, innocent, beautiful, and confused why the heck she was up at 2 am.

We went to where he works while he drew his weapon and finished putting last minute things together. I immediately found the other wives. The wives I know best and know me best. The ones who are about to go through the exact same thing as me. We talked, let the babies play, and watched our husbands from a distance like it was the first time we laid eyes on them. This morning was going to be a long one, and we all knew it. 

Even while we were there, it didnt hit me. The reality of the situation. And to be honest, it still hasn't. Its hard to grasp and accept. Your best friend, your complete other half is going to fight for this country in what seems like a world away. In the next year, there are no promises, no set dates or time, no knowing what will happen tomorrow. Words cant express how proud I am to be his wife. He joined the Army with this in mind. As something he wanted, and needed to do. Its the men like him that amaze me. That sense of patriotism and loyalty to his brothers. I thank all the men and women that joined in a time of war. Its people like you that make this country proud. 

Now it has been a few days since they have left and it doesnt get any easier. But Im learning the D word stands for so much more than Deployment. It stands for faithfulness, trust, patience, and love. Watching the buses leave was one of the hardest things Ive ever had to do in my life. Watching my better half disappear down the road. But the thought of watching the buses come back to me is what makes it so sweet. One day this will all be behind us and we can look back stronger and smile. 

Yes, they talk to eachother. Its sickeningly cute.

Last minute 'I love you's 

Beware and be kind! This is just what our wild family looks like at 6am!

Come home safe, each and every one of you. 

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