Land of the Free

I just came across this saying "Land of the Free because of the Brave" - true in so many ways. I am truly grateful for all of the brave men and women now and throughout history, in all different walks of life, in various different scenarios, who stand up for this country, for our freedoms, and for truth. I have recently been reminded that this is noble, honorable, and a sacrifice.

(Wow - we look dead)

I'm sure that it is extremely difficult when couples are apart, but it is almost unbearable to be apart from your better half and best friend. As much as I try not to, I always have a part of me that is empty. I can't imagine how you feel. I really miss being able to hug you, go out with you, and be together as a family, but I really miss just being able to really talk to you (or me talk while you sleep). I feel that I can't really complain because we have access to so many different modes of communication, we have and continue to be so blessed, we have an amazing family, we've made it through much worse -- but it is still hard. Why do I feel bad about this???

(I hate that this picture is blurry)
See, I am going to be better about posting!