Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Leave (part 1)


There is no point in trying to describe the leaps and cartwheels our hearts did the day Shawn arrived. All of the grand plans and sweet daydreams that have filled our time apart easily pale in comparison to our real moment of reunion. The day was filled with business and many pep talks with myself about not letting out what Oprah calls the "ugly cry". Not that the emotion would be unwarranted, but knowing Shawn had to leave us again, I needed the kids to know that I wasn't crumbling. As I looked at the faces of loved ones who came to greet Shawn, I could feel nothing but gratitude.

Later, as I prepared the house for our departure the next morning, the kids were at my feet as usual. The urgent "Mommy!" this's and that's filled the air around me like any other night. Shawn lovingly walked into the kitchen and gathered the kids to take them away and let me finish my task in peace. He shot me a wink and like any other capable and stable woman, I sobbed. Everyone who faces the duties and trials of daily life knows the importance of setting aside the awareness of its hardship. But once you are reminded of the burden that is lifted by a simple helping hand, that suppressed emotion can quickly slap you in the face. This was a good slap.

8 comments:

Laurel said...

I'm one of the many who has been waiting for these posts. God bless your family...and the thousands of others who are making this sacrifice for all of us. I just adore you.
(can I be you when I grow up... i.e. "find a Shawn of my own"?)

ty and megs said...

what a sweet post! it made me cry too. :)

love you and your fam. so glad you had such a fabulous vacation together.

Kara said...

Yup, totally cried too. Welcome home, Shawn!

Mary Irons said...

Reading your posts reminded me of when Eric came home on leave, and all the emotions I felt too. I'm sure they are the same! I'm so happy you all had a great time in Hawai'i. We are graitful for you guys.

Erin said...

Well now I am crying too. I love you guys.

Unknown said...

How awesome. I'm so glad you got to spend some time together as a family. There is nothing better.

Adam and Bri said...

I loved every word of this post.

And I'm so glad you had a great time in Hawaii. You so deserve it.

Love you, Jill!

Juli said...

Man, we miss you guys! I'm so glad you guys were here, and that you had such a good "break".
We love you!!