A Happy Return

Last night I waited anxiously for A to call with the "we're twenty minutes away" phone call that would have me jumping in the car to go meet him.  The plan was that I would meet him and W where I dropped him off and then A and I would go out for dinner.  However, that was not the way the night unfolded.  Instead, I got ready and waited for his call.

I waited.

And waited.

And waited.

And as I started to get impatient, the door buzzer rang.  Immediately, I began to search my brain for who it could be.  Was my mom planning on stopping by?  Did my BFF decided to make a quick visit?  Was it someone from the building?  

But it was A's voice on the other end and I walked out the door to see A, standing in the cold surrounded by all his luggage with a huge grin on his face.  It might have been the best thing I have ever seen!

I couldn't wait to get down the stairs to open the door.  I can't explain how amazing it was to hear his voice and see his face.  So instead of going out for dinner, we had chinese food from our favorite place and A showed me all the great stuff he brought back.  And as much as I loved the gifts and the stories, I was just happy to have him there with me.  His presence filled our home and made everything as it should be.    

All this time a part made me grateful for all the time we are together.  I have an even greater respect for those that spend time away from their families to serve our country.  And I am grateful that my husband does not travel all that often. So as our life resumes it's normal routine, I hope to remain a little more aware of A's wonderful presence in my life.