It's been over a year and a half since Joe has returned home to us. Since then we've made some HUGE life changes. We moved into a new (bigger) home, had a beautiful baby girl in June '12 and I quit my job to be a stay-at-home mom. Yeah, I never thought I would do that, but look at me, here I am!
Things have still be a bit busy for Joe. He was hired on as a part-time firefighter and has been training and going through EMT courses. So when he's not working, he's in class or training. He also moved from 2nd shift to 1st shift at his regular job, which has been a blessing to our family. Joe is still in the National Guard and is planning to stay in for awhile longer. He stays busy with his role there as well.
Clare turned 3 and will be starting preschool this fall. Chloe is 9.5 mos and is such a happy baby, giving smiles to everyone. I've been enjoying my time at home and have tackled many projects around the house from painting to reorganizing to paper sorting/filing. It's been nice to get things in order the way I've wanted them. We are excited for the next chapter in our story and will keep this updated as we go.
For now, we just take one day at a time and Thank God for his faithfulness in providing for our family in every way!
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Preparation for Homecoming
It's been such a long time since the last post! Joe has been home on his 2 week leave and we had such a great time relaxing and being a family. We got to see a few friends and spend some time together, just Joe and I, in Des Moines. Clare did great! She had no hesistations (not surprising) with him and warmed up to him right away. It didn't phase her that he was here or even when he left. Probably because it was a short amount of time. But it gave us a glimpse of what life will be like upon his return home.
It will be so different with Joe not having school or training to attend. He'll only be working which means he'll be able to be home more with us! (Something I'm getting anxious about as I've been so used to him being gone- Please pray!!!) The goodbye was much easier this time knowing he'll only be home in a matter of a couple months.
Today I am attending a "Yellow Ribbon" event that will contain information about the homecoming process and reintegration back into family life for my soldier. They usually hold these meetings about one month before they arrive home....Joe's almost home! I will post more info about dates and ceremonies once I receive it.
It's so crazy to think how quickly this deployment has gone, but I am so thankful! We've made it. I made it! As a single mom who has amazing friends and family who've helped along the way, I couldn't have done it with any of you!!!!
I also wanted to let you know that if you were planning on sending Joe a package, the last date to mail anything is JUNE 15. Here is his address again:
Joseph Whalen
832 EN CO 2-34 IBCT
Bagram Airfield
APO AE 09354
It will be so different with Joe not having school or training to attend. He'll only be working which means he'll be able to be home more with us! (Something I'm getting anxious about as I've been so used to him being gone- Please pray!!!) The goodbye was much easier this time knowing he'll only be home in a matter of a couple months.
Today I am attending a "Yellow Ribbon" event that will contain information about the homecoming process and reintegration back into family life for my soldier. They usually hold these meetings about one month before they arrive home....Joe's almost home! I will post more info about dates and ceremonies once I receive it.
It's so crazy to think how quickly this deployment has gone, but I am so thankful! We've made it. I made it! As a single mom who has amazing friends and family who've helped along the way, I couldn't have done it with any of you!!!!
I also wanted to let you know that if you were planning on sending Joe a package, the last date to mail anything is JUNE 15. Here is his address again:
Joseph Whalen
832 EN CO 2-34 IBCT
Bagram Airfield
APO AE 09354
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