Today marks one month until D-Day. This past weekend, we went to a Yellow Ribbon Event in Bloomington, Minnesota. I was NOT into the idea because it seemed dry, stuffy, and overly emotional. I wasn’t excited, but I feigned tolerance for Josh’s benefit. It was hosted in the most beautiful hotel I’ve ever stepped in: marble everything, 25 floors, fine dining – the works.
Let me start out by saying I don’t regret going- it had its benefits- but I’m not sure I got what they intended out of it.
Josh recently transferred units with five of his closest friends (2 of which were in our wedding) in order to deploy in 2019 instead of 2020. Most of the people I met were so kind and genuine. I say ‘most’ because let’s be honest… some of the soldiers you meet are the stereotypical egg heads that make you roll your eyes in annoyance at their immaturity. It’s quite comforting to know that my husband will be deploying with good, honest people who are reliable.
Much of the information presented to us at the Yellow Ribbon Event was irrelevant to Josh because he seems to have a strong handle on the paperwork that needs to be done before deployment. But, there were some shining moments that I’ll take away and remember while he’s gone. Recently, I’ve been trying to take mental pictures in order to pause my mind and revel in a moment. I won’t have any of these small pleasures for very much longer, and I’m trying to soak up as much and as many as possible.
- Josh and I got to spend quality time together in a beautiful hotel.
- I was able to meet more of the soldiers he’s deploying with who are also in this new unit.
- I was able to understand the process and cycle of emotions that are spiraling through my head.
- Josh and I were able to relax in a hotel, watch a movie, and laugh together without worry.
- I found a cheap and efficient way to ship packages
If you want more information about the pre-deployment cycle of emotions, click here.
The Raven Girl 