52:16

Motherhood is:

Peace of Mind

Knowing just because you are not there, doesn't mean that her world is upside down.  She still has a routine, and though you aren't an everyday part of it for a while, she is still the happy girl you said "see ya soon" too, and the one who will be ready for hugs when you get home.

It was a big day for Tenley.  She not only has been having a great time with Grandpa there to play with her all day everyday day, but she also got a day out with the Girls, Jen and Paris.  They went to the park, out to eat, she scored some adorable new shoes, and toys.  Have I ever mentioned that we have the most wonderful babysitters ever. I know that I have absolutely no need to worry when she is with them, and that is something that I am eternally grateful for. Tenley loves spending time with them and we are so fortunate that the entire Lee family loves our little girl as much as we do!  You guys are the best and thanks for being there especially when I can't be. 

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52:15

Motherhood is:

Sacrifice

It may be as small as missing a meal or not getting to brush your teeth.  It may be not watching "your show" anymore, or for some it may be a whole lot bigger.

I am counting the days, this Momma is ready to be home!  I said it before this mission can be very humbling.  I am here for what is considered a short time.  Many call this home for months or years, and those down range see first hand what I only see from the air.  No matter if you wear a Military uniform or not, choosing to be Momma comes with its share of sacrifices and some days make your more aware of that than ever. 

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Missing this face...

Today I have the day off, which is a welcome thing, but it also allows time to think and reflect, and makes me realize just how much I miss this sweet face.  I am getting closer to home, each day is a checkmark and Lord knows our plane won't fly fast enough when the day finally gets here! Until then, I love you and miss you everyday!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

We are 2 very, very lucky girls.  The best Husband, Daddy, and Friend that we could ever ask for.  Today is a day to celebrate Him! 

Happy Birthday Daddy! We Love You!!

Celebrate today and then we will again when I get home!

I realize I just used this photo, but it is the last and most recent one it have!

52:14

Motherhood is:

memories

Some you are there to make.  Some you have to miss. The important thing is that they are made and remembered.

My first big holiday to miss with my Girl, and it hurt.  However, knowing that she is at home with the best Daddy ever makes it much easier.  He made sure to let the Easter bunny know to stop and visit, and helped her through her first Easter egg hunt.  Our wonderful neighbors invited them to spend the day with them and their family, so there was no shortage of Easter cheer.  Tim said they had a wonderful day, beginning with Mass, then lots of fellowship, food, and fun!  Also, when I started getting the Easter photos and videos, I noticed she was in a dress I hadn't seen before.  Daddy even found her an Easter dress and did her hair in a pony for the day! Is he wonderful or what!

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18 Month Dinner Date

If I can't be there in person then the next best thing is sharing a pizza via facetime.  I know you don't have a great view of how cute she is, but I do, and I can assure you she is indeed adorable :)

Before I left she was coming up with so many new words and sounds.  No, Yea, Kitty, Bubbles, and Daddy were a few of her favorites before I left, oh and MOM, not Momma, Mommy, MOM...I am not ready for that! I am sure the list will be much longer by the time I return.  She is doing great at naming her "parts" and we are getting the hang of animal sounds.  She is taking instructions/understanding directions so well and can do two part tasks as well.  She is already loving picking out her outfits in the morning, cute now, but I am sure will be a battle someday.  Oh well, until that time I am just going to enjoy the ride!

52:13

Motherhood is:

Strength

It starts with labor, then sleepless nights that soon fade into distant memories, that will surely start again in the teen years.  Functioning in ways you didn't know possible.  Accomplishing things with one hand that you always thought took at least four. Then for the Military Momma comes the time when you are tested most. Deployment.

I know this is normally a one photo thing, but I had to share all of these

It is hard. It is hard everyday. I put myself in the routine, and just pray each night for strength to accomplish the mission. The mission here and at home. To make the most of each day and remember the cause for which we all stand.  This is a humbling place to be and that is part of what makes you dig deep within yourself and know home will always be there, but for now you are needed here.  You can find strength in yourself you never knew you had when you are put in a situation that it is required. 

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