Saying goodbye to James

Today I underestimated my son's love and courage...I expected him to break down and cry. He looked straight into my eyes and told me that he was tough and was not going to cry and told me that he was going to be okay. As a mother I wanted to hold him and let him cry...but he pushed me away. I told him that it is ok to cry, especially during times like these. He told me that he had to be strong for Luci, that she couldn't see him cry. What an amazing little boy...he has more bearing and strength as a 4 year old than many men I know. I hope that he knows how much I love him. I hope that he knows how proud I am of him. The last thing that I hope for is that he will not carry the burden of trying to be tough for his little sissy...I hope that he can stay a child, at least till I come home to give him a big hug.

Spruce 09/30/2009

Floating in the air
on the lofty piece of sky
high above me

cold breeze to my back
the tree ablaze on the horizon

A beautiful sight
A beautiful noise
she is taken
engorged
in the bright amber
flames

First Blog

Well I am heading off to Afghanistan in a few months and wanted to start a blog...so friends and family could follow without having to get a facebook account or myspace. This should be fun and I will post as often as I can. Here we go...on a ride of our lifetime.