The New Normal

Daniel has been gone for over seven weeks, and in Afghanistan for nearly a month.  In some moments, it feels like the time has gone by so quickly, and we are just getting started.  But in many moments, especially at night, when I think of the numbers, I know that I have to do "this" 11 more times before he's home, and it takes my breath away. 

I don't know how people do this without family around them.  I am so blessed to be surrounded by family that loves me and my kids.  Last week I had a terrible stomach bug, and though it was still really difficult without Daniel, family swept in and helped out.  In the middle of last night, I thought I heard someone in the house, and my mom was here within minutes to check on me.  It makes the year feel so bearable.  Lately the kids and I have been struggling to get along.  Especially Hazel and I.  She is so stubborn, and there is no simple key to pleasing her - not even a "difficult" key; the same thing never works on her twice.  If I'm mean, she throws a fit; if I'm sweet to her, she takes advantage and bosses me.  I've tried being more consistent in punishment, and it really seems to make no difference.  But last night before bed I tried to remember how blessed I am to have each one of them.  I feel like for the past 7 weeks I've been thinking, "If I can just get a break from all 3 kids, I could breath!"  This is my reality, and I need to be grateful that I have my babies to keep me company, make me laugh, keep me busy, and serve as a moment by moment reminder of all that God has given to Daniel and I.

Daniel seems to be doing really well.  He's been in something of a holding time since he arrived in country, waiting to be sent to his unit; that should be happening soon.  The fact concerns me.  On my end it's been very easy so far in that he's calling most days, and chatting on facebook with me a couple times a day.  Knowing he's training and just hanging out on a nice, "safe" installation brings me comfort.  I wonder about where my imagination will go once he's truly "working.". 

I sent my first package to him two weeks ago and it arrived within a week; I'm so impressed with the mail system.  For anyone looking to send regular care packages to soldiers, I have to suggest ordering the large priority boxes from usps.com.  They are free to order, and then, no matter how heavy, they are only $13-something to send to a soldier.  I couldn't believe how easy the process was, and how fast it reached him.  Sending him care packages is a  nice way to feel like I have a little control over his conditions over there.  I have two more ready to go as soon as I get his new address. 

For those of you who may be dropping by and don't know my Daniel and his mwd, Bony, here they are.  I'm so proud!  :)