Yes, we are alive. And yes, I’ve been too busy enjoying our family of four being TOGETHER to give more than a passing thought to blogging.
Today I finished putting together a little video chronicling this journey we’ve been on. I made it for myself, really… therapeutic and all that. I wanted to go back to the beginning and see where we started and then be able to see where we’re at now. Because it seems that no matter how many times I replay it all in my mind, having John home now is normal and that whole Iraq thing? Just a bad dream.
But then, there are other moments…
Anyone who has ever gone through a time in their lives that’s been difficult or life-altering in any way knows that feeling–when you struggle to piece where you were before all of this began, where you were in the thick of it, and where you are now that it’s coming to a close. How does all of this relate and… now what?
Yesterday evening I was finishing up the dinner dishes, John was building block towers with the boys. It felt so completely normal that my mind had tricked me into thinking this is the way it’s been all along.
It was just a random song that came on the stereo, but one I hadn’t been familiar with until John sent me a DVD of one of their chapel services. Throughout the past few months, I’ve played the music portion of that DVD over and over and over–listening to John playing a guitar and leading the singing for a bunch of Christian Marines and Army personnel who still choose to gather together in Iraq.
When the first few notes of the song began to come through the stereo speakers last night, my mind reversed its little trick on me. For about five seconds, as I stood there putting clean plates and bowls away, I was alone again. John singing along to the music was just a DVD and the boys were playing alone. I immediately started thinking about getting the boys bathed and ready for bed by myself and then later climbing into our big empty bed on my own.
It took a moment to breathe again. I stood for the duration of the song with my hands resting on the bowls I was shelving, frozen as the past year played before my eyes. The worries and fears of the months leading up to the day John left, the feeling of saying goodbye, the achingly long days and nights without him, the constant struggle to trust the Lord with John’s safety as well as our own back here, the incredible closeness both of us found in Jesus in the midst of war’s separation, and then Homecoming Day and the sheer bliss of seeing my beloved’s face again and being in his arms.
As the song came to a close, I opened my tear-filled eyes. It’s over. John IS here. Right here, in our home. We four are together now. His singing was coming from the living room, not through television speakers. God did it. Proved Himself faithful in more ways than we could have foreseen or imagined. As any military wife can tell you, this is actually just one step on a much longer journey–one filled with more separation and some difficult times. But we’ve made it through this one. What reason do we have to doubt He’ll bring us through the next any less lovingly?
Some of this video may not make sense. Since I made it for myself mostly, a few of the pictures will have more meaning to us than they will to you. But I’m showing you this glimpse into our journey because you have all been a part of it. You’ve loved us and prayed for us from the beginning–something for which there are not enough words to thank you.
So here’s a little glimpse into our journey–start to, well, finished-for-now.
Journey from Ashleigh on Vimeo.
It’s been a little over a week now since John came home. He worked a couple days last week and yesterday began his 30-day leave period. I know it’s no surprise to you all that I’ll be taking an extended bloggity break throughout most of that. I’m not sure exactly when I’ll be back to normal around here–I have to figure out what “normal” is going to be, now that I won’t have hours upon hours of “after the kids are in bed” to devote to blogging. I might pop in a few times, leave some comments here and there. But my online time will be sporadic at best.
Besides, I’m just way too busy taking two-hour walks on the beach hand in hand with my guy, reading books to our little boys while they climb all over us, eating real meals (I forgot it’s possible for people to actually eat home cooked meals every night of the week), snuggling–all four of us–in the mornings, doing incredibly mature things like chasing each other around the house shooting rubber bands around corners and up the stairs.
Yep. Life is good.
Darcy says:
What a way to start the morning…moved to tears.
I am so happy you posted an update! I knew you were spending time with John and the boys, but you’ve been missed!!! :)
Enjoy the extended time away…together!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 8:31 am
Anonymous says:
Hey Ashleigh!
Usually just a “lurker” but I just wanted to say how happy I am for you and how much your blog has touched and encouraged me over these months. I discovered your blog just a little before John left, and just as my husband was coming home from his deployment. “Reintegration” was mostly a smooth process for us, thankfully, but there were some frustrating times that I would check your blog and remind myself to be thankful for the dirty clothes on the floor, the bits and pieces of military that seems to explode from his pockets all over the house, and even some of the disagreements we’ve had.
You will find a new “normal”, but enjoy this in-between time to the fullest! And those moments that take you back to smack in the middle of a seemingly endless deployment? I still have them, whether it is a smell, sound, or just the quiet in the house late at night. But I’ve learned to embrace them as a reminder to never take this time together for granted. I think our marriage has benefited from that.
Praying and celebrating for you in AZ!
Amber
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 8:46 am
Katie says:
Oh, Ash… what a lovely set of pictures.
Enjoy your family and those beautiful little blessings of everyday moments.
So so happy for you.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Ambrose Family says:
Enjoy this time together! You know how precious it is.
I’m so happy you’re all together again! :)
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August 20th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Becoming Me says:
How wonderful. Looks like you are on Cloud 9!
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August 20th, 2008 at 9:34 am
Natalie Nyquist says:
Oh my WORD Ash…talk about making me cry buckets of tears! Precious. Beautiful. Thank you for sharing. I loved the pictures and the song–you did a great job compiling that. I’m sending the link to my mom and a few others…they’ve been rooting for you as well.
Just one step of the journey. God was very faithful to you and as you said, he will continue to be faithful no matter WHAT the future brings.
Sometimes His faithfulness means strength to live in hell, not faithfulness to take away the pain. Considering we both had husbands sent to Iraq, we’ve had very different endings to this chapter of our stories, seeing as mine is not coming back to me. But I am so so so glad yours did–and sooner than we first hoped. God is merciful. And His strength is perfect.
I wish I could crush you in a hug right now. Maybe someday soon…
With tears and hugs…
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 9:39 am
Mishel says:
Ok…well, I’ve watched the video like, 10 times and I cry every single time! I stand in awe of our Lord and His goodness…
Love you, Baby Girl!!! : )
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Sarah M. says:
You made me cry *sniff* :)
I’m so glad he’s home. Enjoy :D
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August 20th, 2008 at 10:04 am
aSprinkling says:
Thanks for the video! I live in an Air Force town where people are regularly deployed. It can get to be kinda routine for those of us civilians around. This helped me to remember how personal and how hard it can be.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:31 am
Kelli says:
What a beautiful video. Ash. It took my breath away.
God. Is. Good.
Praying got you guys, and the rest that are still over there. Doing the job they love.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:33 am
LeAnna says:
Aww, that was beautiful! Make this normally stoic hormonal pregnant woman boohoo her eyes out. The Lord is so good to always carry us through. Time after time he does so. Blessings to you and your family!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:44 am
Carrie at dumptrucksandteacups says:
Ashleigh,
This was beautiful… simply beautiful. Enjoy the days and weeks with your loved one. You will be missed but I know there is no other place you would rather be. :)
Sending my love,
Carrie
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Katie says:
So touching. All glory to God!
Thanks for sharing this chapter of your life with us.
God Bless your sweet family,
Katie
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Kaylene says:
Oh.my.word.
This made me cry Ashleigh. I’m so excited for you. You’ve got to know that reaches so many people. I kept picturing my parents being reunited after desert storm right after my brother was born. So beautiful. God bless.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:50 am
Amy says:
Wow! I don’t remember how long it’s been that I’ve cried like that! The video was really moving and I’m so glad that you guys are back together.
Enjoy all of your together time!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 10:55 am
Tiffany says:
I sure hope there isnt a limit we can watch that video cause Im on my 5th time! :) Wow I remember the day he left and feeling a whole in our family. Through the months that he was gone and I came over it just didnt feel the same cause he wasnt there. The day he came home WOW looking at your face brings me to tears. That face takes me back to the day he left the struggles and ruff times while he was gone and then I see you smile and run and it all seems to be ok. John is home can you believe it!?! We love him and missed him soooo very much and are so thankful he is home where he belongs!! :) Enjoy your break.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 11:00 am
Anonymous says:
What a video ~ made me cry!!! LOADS! (LOL) Thank you for giving us a glimpse into the life of a military family…. all those pictures. Boy! And the song! (gulp) Simply beautiful!
The Lord bless you all!
In Christ,
Brandi from WA
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Nicole says:
Oh Ash. I sat Caleb on my lap while I watched your video, and I cried. What a beautiful memorial of the last 8 months. Of God’s faithfulness, and His precious love. Just like the Old Testament Israelites used to build monuments and altars to the Lord, you’ve made this video, and it will serve as a remembrance and a reminder in the future of all He has done and will do for your family.
And as much as it will be a remembrance for you, it will be a testimony and encouragement to the rest of us. Thanks so much for sharing.
Love you!
Coley
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 11:16 am
MaryBeth says:
celebrating with you and looking forward to our own homecoming 11 or 12 months from now!!!
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August 20th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Jenny says:
What a beautiful post. It is crazy how our minds can play those tricks! I am so happy for you and your family. Your video had me shedding some big tears…not the pretty, delicate ones, but the big, sobbing ones. I don’t even know you, but I am rejoicing with you. I think I will give my husband an extra big hug when he gets home tonight!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Shari says:
Moved to tears! This really makes me realize what you military wives go thru when a deployment is in process. It makes me cherish my husband so much more! Thank you for sharing!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Mod Girl says:
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing… it is indeed a tribute to God’s faithfulness. Merritt sure was taken with Daddy’s hat!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 12:16 pm
Valerie aka Mamalovelock says:
I don’t know you or your family, but after stumbling on to your bog I have prayed for your husbands safe return. I cried when you posted the pic in the last post and this movie was amazing. I felt such emotion for you all while watching.
I am happy and thankful that your husband is home and safe.
I thank him for his service to our country and thank you for the sacrifices you made as well.
May God bless you both tremendously.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Kristi says:
Ashleigh, I smiled and cried through the whole video. It was precious.
I’m glad your fella is home with his family. Soak it in!
~Kristi
PS ~ you’ll put your eyes out with those rubber bands. (Sorry…couldn’t resist) hehe
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Lara says:
Ashleigh–
How lovely! Blessings on your reintegration. Your video is so precious–I had to wipe the tears away.
Hugs,
L
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
FaceforGrace says:
Beautiful! I am so happy for you guys. And, I’m sure that normal will come again real soon…and figuring it out will be the best part!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Elizabeth in Alaska says:
::sniff:: Love you guys… so glad you are together once again. ::hugs::
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
Marc and Charity says:
Hi there, I don’t comment often, but I just watched your video and it’s precious! I bawled my eyes out. I’m so happy for y’all, and so glad you are together again!!!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Chelsea says:
I’m so happy for you and your family Ashleigh!
That video made me cry…and laugh. When Troy is singing with the toilet paper holder (I think that’s what it is) I love it!
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Jamie says:
Beautiful. Thank you for your service & sacrifice.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Steve n Vickie says:
We’re so happy he’s home. Enjoyed your video. Enjoy your time with him home. We’ll miss you in the bloggie world(after all you’re the one who got me hooked), but you have many more important things to do(spoiling Mr. Marine)
All Our Love
Vickie
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Mother Goose says:
Hi Sweeety,
Thank you so much for sharing with us, it was almost like I was there with you all when John came home.
I am soo thankful John is home safe and you are all together.
Love you so much,
Aunt Sheri
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Anna says:
Wow. That was really touching. I’m only a recent subscriber, but I’ve really enjoyed reading your courtship story (especially since I’m newly in a courtship myself) and what I’ve read so far of your family’s journey. I loved this part: “But we’ve made it through this one. What reason do we have to doubt He’ll bring us through the next any less lovingly?” So good. Congratulations!!! :)
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
coljefferson says:
Wow, Ashleigh, that was absolutely beautiful and very moving.
I know I haven’t commented much, but I’ve been closely following all the ups and downs of the last few months. You all have been in my thoughts and prayers throughout it all. I’m SO glad you’re all back together again!! God is good.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Lindsay says:
Ashleigh – that video is so awesome. I can only imagine the joy and extreme happiness at seeing John when he got off the bus. I’m happy for you both!
Enjoy your time – spoil the heck out of him, and hey – who says rubber band fights aren’t mature!
Lindsay
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Melissa says:
Ashleigh,
Although I check your blog daily, this is my first comment and not to mention we see each other and talk often, I couldn’t help but write a little something.
What a sweet, sweet video! I couldn’t hold back the tears. You are a beautiful family blessed by our Lord!
God certainly gave you courage and strength during John’s months in Iraq and I’m glad to say I could witness His almighty hand in your lives. What an encouragement to our family and to the others touched by your words and actions. John is a true hero, a soldier for the Lord and for his country!
I loved seeing you together at church!
Love you,
Melissa B.
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Rebekah says:
Hey there,
When I first read this post, I was waiting for Vincent to finish getting ready for church. I started the video but had to stop as soon as I heard the song. I knew what it was and started tearing up right away and it was a bad time to cry. Now that the kids are in bed I had time to watch and listen and cry I did. It's a good video and I am so happy for you.
When I first saw the beginning of it earlier, I was thinking about it on my way to church and the thing that kept popping into my mind was when you & John sang "Rejoice in the Lord" at church before you were married. You've been through a rough time, but have come through the better because of it. It just seemed fitting.
~Rebekah
[Reply]
August 20th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Sharon says:
What a great video! Brought tears to my eyes.
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 6:36 am
Adventures In Babywearing says:
Oh this made me teary just reading your words! I know what you are saying exactly. I am so happy for you.
Steph
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 6:45 am
Nancy M. says:
I visit your moms blog alot and have been keeping up with you and your family too! Gods Goodness!
The little video bought tears to my eyes and praise to my heart!
What a precious family you have!
Thank you for sharing your life with us! Thank you to your husband to care enough to serve our country and keep us safe! Thank you for willing to be used of God to touch so many people!
In Him, Mrs. M.
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 7:05 am
mel says:
Oh Ashleigh, I’m so happy for you. What a wonderful video… Made me bawl!
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 7:29 am
Becky says:
What an absolutely beautiful video! I’m all teary. I am so happy for you and your family that your husband is home!! I’ve been reading along for awhile now. Your honest writing has been such an encouragement to me while my husband was deployed as well. He came home recently too!!…It’s just so….so wonderful!! Thank you for sharing!
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 9:14 am
Breanne Vasquez says:
Great video – Yall have a great 30 days!
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 9:34 am
Debbie says:
That was a great video. Thank you for sharing it. Enjoy your time together.
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 10:03 am
Danielle says:
Oh wow. That was so incredibly beautiful and touching! I couldn’t stop the tears from spilling over nor or the chills from creeping up! My husband and I have been keeping you guys in our prayers and are sooo happy for you to be reunited again! Thank you- all of you- for serving our country. God bless you :)
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Anonymous says:
Oh my, tears tears tears. thanks for sharing this with us. I dont comment often but i do check in often.
Praying for your family.
Chris in Ia.
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 3:54 pm
Karsten says:
Wow! That made me cry. I am so glad that he is home safely! Thank you for what you all have done and gone through!!
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Anonymous says:
Ashleigh,
Your video was amazing, but God’s sufficient grace that gives your family that testimony is the MOST AMAZING THING of all!!! We love you all so, so, so, so much. It was a privilege and joy to share John’s homecoming with you.
Love,
Your cousin Misty
[Reply]
August 21st, 2008 at 11:10 pm
Danielle says:
What an absolutely beautiful video. Made me cry like a baby and I don’t even know you! I found your blog a few weeks ago and watch it all the time for updates.
We’re happy that John is home safe and sound!
Danielle
[Reply]
August 22nd, 2008 at 6:09 am
lady jane says:
Such a beautiful video montage, Ashleigh. Thank you for sharing a glimpse of your life and John’s homecoming. Please thank him for us, for serving so valiantly and sacrificially. Bless you all so dearly.
[Reply]
August 22nd, 2008 at 10:13 am
Melissa Jane Searle says:
Hi Ashleigh,
What a beautiful Video, i was moved to tears.. congrats on having your husband home again… and you are all so blessed. Enjoy your time together!
Melissa
[Reply]
August 22nd, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Steve n Vickie says:
We are so glad your GYSGT is home and you are all together again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Your video journey was a great reminder of what you have been through and all the emotions involved in the family of a deployed soldier.
“Little” Brother we are very proud of you and your service. Ashleigh and Boys we are proud of you for your sacrifice of service to the USA also.
Love you guys
Steve
[Reply]
August 22nd, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Munchkins and Music says:
I’m all choked up. What a wonderful post! Your blog is really cute by the way!
[Reply]
August 23rd, 2008 at 1:40 pm
lana says:
What a joy you are. Thank you for giving us just a glimpse. Our church prayer team has been lifting your family up. I was thrilled to share the video with them since they have been praying for you all.
“Thank you God for this family and bless their special time together”.
amen
[Reply]
August 23rd, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Rocks In My Dryer says:
Ashleigh, this is precious. I am a puddle of tears! Your family is so beautiful, and I couldn’t be happier for you. Enjoy this sweet time–we’ll all be here when you get back to bloggin’. Take your time!
[Reply]
August 23rd, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Beth/Mom2TwoVikings says:
Thank you for his service and sacrifice overseas as well as your sacrifice at home. Your hubby and those like him are our heroes too!
[Reply]
August 23rd, 2008 at 8:27 pm
life with the wisners says:
oh my heavens.
i know you did that more for you. but us? we needed that.
hug your husband tell him how much we appreciate him.
God is such a good God. oh how He is smiling with you guys right now.
thank you.
now go.
go shoot more rubber bands.
[Reply]
August 23rd, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Ginger says:
SNIFF!!! Forget the “you almost made me cry” thing I type often on this blog. My sister and I just bawled our eyes out watching this beautiful video!!!
I am so thankful and happy and just down right thrilled for your family!!!
Praying for you,
Ginger~
[Reply]
August 23rd, 2008 at 9:35 pm
Kim says:
I found your site from Rocks in my Dryer…. WOW! Thank you for sharing this journey. Thank you for your family’s service to our country. God Bless you all. May you just enjoy being together….
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 3:28 am
Sue says:
I found a link to this post on the Rocks in My Dryer blog. What a beautiful post and video… I am so happy for your family.
Thank you and your husband SO MUCH for the enormous sacrifice you’ve made for all of us. I am so, so grateful and proud. May God bless your family with peace, health and happiness in the days ahead.
THANK YOU again,
Sue
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 4:03 am
JoyinJesus says:
WOW! I rejoice with you and praise God!
my son was in Iraq for 15 months and whenever i hear a story like yours i relive that joyous moment when he came home.
GOD is so good!
I’m so happy for you and your family.
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 4:17 am
Tracey says:
A beautiful video.
Please thank you husband for us for his service.
Blessings to you and your family.
Tracey
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Jenny says:
What a beautiful video! I wanted to say thank you. Thank you to your husband for serving our country, thank you, Ashleigh, for the sacrifices you made so he could go. God bless your family! Enjoy your time together. I can only imagine how precious it is to be back together again!
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 9:20 am
Elizabeth says:
How beautiful … thank you for sharing! I’m soooooo happy for you, dear Ashleigh! *Hug!*
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Kate says:
Wow, just WOW…rejoicing with you over the safe return of your beloved husband!!! :D Thanks for sharing this post with us….we cannot THANK your husband ENOUGH for the service he is bravely doing for each one of us and for our country. Thank you just isn’t enough. ENJOY time together soak it all up!!!
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Tales From the Eurovan says:
Hi! I followed the link from Rocks in my Dryer. What a beautiful video! So glad your hubby is home.
Take care,
Julie
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Carolyn says:
Hi,
I have no idea who you are but someone share a link to this post and I’m so glad I clicked it. I thank you and your children and most definitely your husband for the supreme sacrifices you’ve made and do make for all of us in America. Your husband is my hero as are all our soldiers. May God continue to give you strength and your husband courage as he does his job. Thank you for sharing your heart with everyone. Praise the Lord for his safe return home. Enjoy every single second of it!
Carolyn
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Octamom says:
This is so powerful–thank you so much for putting this together, showing us again the amazing heroes who are serving this country overseas and the amazing heroes who await their return back here at home. I can’t wait to share this with my kids to remind them again of the phenomenal dedication and honor and sacrifice necessary to lead this country and protect freedom. Thank you, thank you.
Blessings~
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Nikki says:
Awesome video. I’m a soldiers wife so it made total sense to me! We got word just a few days ago that my husband will be leaving in just a few weeks for “somewhere” and for “sometime”.
I’ll be back to look around. Enjoy YOUR man!!!!!
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Valarie says:
This is my first time here. That video is awesome, and you have all the reasons in the world to take a bloggy break. Go be with your guys! :)
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Karen says:
OH my gosh. Ya should have warned me that this was a total “kleenex required” video! ;)
Beautiful video – so glad your family is reunited and you have your sweet hubby next to you where he belongs. :)
Enjoy your time with him and know that we appreciate not only the sacrifice your husband has made to keep us safe on our own shores, but also the sacrifices that you and the kids have made – we love you!
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Wanda says:
SO PRECIOUS!!! SO BEAUTIFUL!!!
Thank you for sharing him with our country and for him serving our country. We are blessed!
Your blog is beautiful and so is your sweet family.
God bless you all.
Enjoy…..
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
makemineaquad says:
What an absolutely beautiful video. Thank you for sharing that with the world. Congrats on having your husband home. Enjoy.
Please come back though b/c now that I’ve found your blog, I’d love to come back to visit some more!
Best,
Aileen
[Reply]
August 24th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Toni says:
I am so happy for you and your gorgeous boys that their daddy is home! Please pass on a big “Thanks” from my family to your husband and your family for the sacrifices you have made for my freedom! May you have a wonderful and blessed life!!!
[Reply]
August 25th, 2008 at 6:39 am
Shannon (muzbeecrazy.com) says:
I came over by way of Kelsey at My Sweet Life. I am so happy that you were reunited with your hubby. It was a beautiful video. Thank you for sharing that with us. You have a beautiful family.
[Reply]
August 25th, 2008 at 9:33 am
Joelle says:
Awww, I’m so happy for you. It’s such a beautiful video, it brought tears to my eyes.
[Reply]
August 25th, 2008 at 9:41 am
Shannon says:
Thanks for sharing your journey with us!! Stop by my blog sometime.
[Reply]
August 25th, 2008 at 9:42 am
Crooked Eyebrow says:
I can’t stop crying. It was beautiful!
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August 25th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
TRS says:
Oh. That was beautiful!
Thank you… you and your hubby for the sacrifices you’ve made for him to serve.
You are so lucky to be in love, and married and have a family. If only all of us could have that.
Now… go enjoy him… knowing what you have.
[Reply]
August 25th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
Sara says:
Maybe its the lack of sleep, stress from finals…or the pure joy that I have for you and your men…I CRIED A LOT!!! Thank you John and Ash for opening up and encouraging me with your lives.
[Reply]
August 26th, 2008 at 4:33 am
Rebekah says:
OK, so I was having a hard time seeing the movie through the tears!!! Talk to you soon!
[Reply]
August 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Mommie Blogs says:
absolutely beautiful! enjoy this time reconnecting and just having fun. And thank you for sharing. This made me appreciate my time with my guys a little bit more…
[Reply]
August 26th, 2008 at 5:31 pm
mamajil says:
I found your blog through “my sweet life” great post! Thank you for sharing your husband with our country in order for us to enjoy our freedom as we do!! Special thanks to your husband for the sacrifice and strength and commitment to our country!
My family appreciates your family and all the families of the men who protect the great USA!
[Reply]
August 26th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
Andrea says:
I’m crying.
Tell your hubby thank you.
And thank you for being so brave to let him go and trust our Maker. I have to admit, I’m not that brave.
I’ve made a point, since finding out that my brother in law is going to Iraq in October to keep a stack of post it notes in my purse to thank folks that sport army/marine/navy/airforce bumper stickers on their cars. If you ever are in Wisconsin, and a post it note is on your window thanking you….It’s from me. And I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
Thank you.
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August 30th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
MoziEsmé says:
Enjoy your time together.
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August 31st, 2008 at 3:19 am
Heather says:
I’m only able to catch up just now…I am SO overjoyed, God is so good…now I need to find a towel to sop up the river of tears I cried over that precious precious video. Love you!!
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September 23rd, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Angie says:
Ashleigh, thank you for your sweet comments on my site. Something about them is always an encouragement to me – I still remember you identifying with me on a post about moving, and how much better I felt when you shared that you had “been there,” taking months to unpack after one of your own moves. :-)
Wow, I’ve had a lot to catch up on here at your site! My heart is overflowing with joy for you now that your family is once again complete. There is no way I can imagine what you’ve been through, being separated so long from your husband and also being home alone with two young sons. Your husband is not the only hero and servant of our country! Thank you BOTH.
It looks like I’m not the only one touched by the video! Thank you for sharing – it reached deep to the heart. Love and blessings to you and your precious family.
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September 25th, 2008 at 5:14 am
christine says:
I check your blog every day. Hope your family time is full of laughter and joy. I like to believe in happy endings and I pray that your days together since this summer have been happy. Looking forward to another post some time…. Until then, every time I check on your blog I will pray for your family.
–christine in Michigan
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November 23rd, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Hannah C. says:
Add me to the list of people who teared up when they saw this… :)
And, on a very random side note: you’ve got the same kind of little kid TV trays as my mother has for my younger siblings!! (I’m almost 20 and the oldest of nine.)
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March 8th, 2009 at 1:16 pm