One of the blessing of a deployment is being able to come home for some of the special days of the year.
I’ve missed plenty other special days–my son’s first two birthdays, among many others–so it is extra special when I’m able to spend a special day with my children.
Interestingly enough, I have never missed one of their birthdays so far. Having twins helps because it takes care of two birthdays–so I can be home for at least two of my childrens’ birthdays. But, it was special to once again be apart of this special day.
We started the day of with me running two miles on the treadmill, while Monica ran to the clinic for an eye appointment. She returned in time for a nine o’clock breakfast of Strawberry Cheescake French Toast. Then we opened presents and played everything from lacing beads to Leapster. Monica will be putting photos on her site, so be sure to take a look.
Then we had lunch and birthday cake and cup cakes, followed by nap time.
We took a nice trip to Chili’s for dinner and now all of the kids are in their beds.
One of the nice things about being home is reconnecting with the children. To have them sit in my lap, to have them bring a toy to show me, are the greatest moments that I never would want to take for granted. Deployment seems to make you think a little bit harder about these things. Doing what I do is important, but being at home for the birthdays remind me of the reason to keep the country and the home strong.