Our reunion, vacation, and depature...

I've had a few days to think about how I would reflect on the past 3 weeks. Having him home was the best gift I could've ever received. It was everything I had dreamed of for the past 5 months. It melted my heart to run to his arms as he came closer to me in the airport. I had a sense of happiness that I hadn't felt in quite some time. I had butterflies as if it was our first date. :) We came home from Atlanta, packed, and headed to the beach for 7 days! It was amazing...and so relaxing. The weather was beautiful the whole time we were there. It didn't rain until the day we left which of course makes it easier to leave on days like that. Our parents joined the last weekend we were there so that was nice getting some family time! Drew and I had a spend the night date with Sarah. It was precious and Drew loved having his neice sleep right next to him. I think he missed her as much as he missed me. ha! She loved staying at "sissy and Dew's" house. We watched Kung Fu Panda and I hardly slept a wink. Sarah's feet stayed in my ribs all night. ha! The things you do for the one's you love huh? We got to spend a lot of time together and that was much needed. Its amazing how much our love has grown even though we've been 8000 miles apart since January. He believes they will depart from their tour at some point in November or December. Its hard to believe I will be putting up our christmas tree the next time he's home. I just pray that God gives us the strength to make it, and keep each other safe and comforted during this absence. Although it's been the toughest battle throughout our 9 year relationship, we've learned a lot about each other and have grown together as one. Our future is endless together and that's what keeps me smiling throughout the tearful good-byes and long-distance phone calls. I know we will look back on this and be thankful for all that God has taught us. Thank you all for the continued support and love as we conquer the last 6 months of this tough battle. Here's a few photo's from his leave....