Home!!!!!....

It felt like a Folgers coffee commercial....."YOU'RE HOME!!"

Yes, last night about 6:30 the old green truck with the extremely loud muffler pulled into the neighborhood and it was over. Fourteen years of commitment to the Navy had ended. On Monday Tim simply signed the final papers, dressed in his civilian clothes, and walked through the gates a free man. As he said..it was almost anti climatic. No ruffles and flourishes, no grand send off, just sign and go. So, now he is back to his Texas roots (which were always part of who he was no matter where he traveled). With him Mandy and Brooklynn..they are finally a rooted family. No more separations, no more missed birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, weddings, and holidays. They are here. Mandy can finally unpack the suitcases and hang her clothes in her closet. She can sleep in her own bed. Brooklynn can have her own room. Vagabonds no more. I do not know what it feels like on their end but I know as a mom it is a great sense of relief. My family is home and my son has finished his commitment. He has made us very proud and no matter what direction he goes from here, I know he will continue to bring us great joy. Upon his arrival Brooklynn was anxious to show her daddy all of the things she has learned in his absence....
I can make noises like a chicken, put together a puzzle, and just make everyone around me smile!

What a great holiday this will be. So anxious for us all to be together and start traditions that will be a constant because now they are home!