This was a column I wrote last Mother’s Day. This year, I’m in Washington with my husband and children. It’s funny how you appreciate days like this more when you don’t know when it will happen again. I don’t know where my husband will be next Mother’s Day, so I am going to enjoy every minute of today with him and our children. Happy Mother’s Day!!!

Mother’s Day Deployment Flashback

Giggling and paper crinkling heard next to my bed lets me know that I can now open my eyes. I’ve been awake for an hour listening to my children in the kitchen fixing what they will call breakfast. I stretch slowly and exaggerate my motions to let them think they have just woken me from a deep and peaceful sleep.

“SURPIRSE!!! HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!” is yelled from inches in front of me.  A plate of very crispy toast, an apple, and a bowl of cereal had been placed on my nightstand along with colorful cards and flowers picked from our yard. I’m speechless. Two bright-eyed children stand in front of me beaming with pride. I graciously say thank you and start hugging and kissing their faces until my son says, “Mom, enough already!” and my daughter thrust a card into my hands. As I look at the beautiful artwork and sweet gestures my son quickly reminds me that I have to eat my cereal because he already poured the milk.  I’m then asked what I want to do. “Turn on cartoons of course”, I say with energy. The kids pile into my bed and we watch Sponge Bob Square Pants while I eat my Cheerios and carefully sneak the toast to our dogs. Continue reading →