That night I smiled so hard, my cheeks went numb

Eight months ago, he left.

I cried.

A lot.

In between his going and his coming, the kids and I ate a lot of hot dogs.

We read a bunch of stories.

I gave many baths.

Changed countless diapers.

Buckled and unbuckled car seats, shuttled children to preschool, church, commissary, playdates, doctor visits, more playdates, and a few road trips.

I talked about Daddy and how he would be home soon. How much he wants to play ball and sing songs and do bathtime and read stories with us. How much love he has for us that he would go to such a faraway place to protect us.

We said prayers for Daddy. And we said prayers for us.

In between all of that, there were many hard days, lonely nights, timeouts, tantrums, breakdowns, and expired-beer-drinking.

And somehow, this night that seemed like it would never happen, finally did.

I can honestly say that May 8 was the best day of my entire life.

And every minute he was gone, he was missed.

But he is always worth waiting for.

Thanks for all the prayers and support and wine and high-fives, y'all.
Now if you'll excuse me please, I have a complete family to enjoy.