The Long Wait Is Over!

After all 3 kids birthdays have passed, John earned his Bachelor's Degree (and graduation was missed), a few stressed out "single mom" moments, many sleepless nights tending to my sick children, my overnight stay in the hospital due to dehydration from the stomach virus, tears were shed, our marriage was tried but also strengthened, weaning a 2 year old from a pacifier, lots of alone time (whether wanted or not), countless family, friends and neighbors checking in on us and being there for us - and all that entails in 6 months of separation due to military deployment in Iraq and the constant loneliness and worry that is brought to a military spouse because of it...I'm proud to say:

MY HUSBAND IS FINALLY HOME!!!!

And I seriously couldn't be happier! Being without my best friend for so long was very challenging. Especially being pregnant and taking care of our three children.

I couldn't have done it all without the many hands and prayers that helped our family.

And here's to the readjustment period. So far, the kids haven't left their daddy's side for more than a few minutes and he's without question thrown off with the time difference. But our family is complete and together and we really couldn't be happier!

{Here he is arriving out of Customs at the Dulles International Airport Gate. This is when I spotted him and he didn't see me yet. I was so nervous waiting for my other half to get home!!} 

 {Finally together!}

He had no idea we were going to be at the airport to get him and was completely surprised to see us! He made plans to have a friend bring him home since I'm now full term in my pregnancy and he didn't want me to be far away from the hospital but we found a way for us to all go up there and wait for him. Even the kids had no idea their daddy was arriving today! We told them we were there to help pick up our friend's family. They were SO excited!!! It was so worth it and I'm really glad we went anyways.

{So happy to be reunited!}

During his deployment, we kept in touch over Skype so I wasn't too worried if Andrew would recognize his daddy or not. Andrew was looking around at first, concerned only about his bag of chips, when he looked up at him, gave a confused look for one brief moment and then the BIGGEST smile spread across his face and he ran to his arms and refused to be put down! All of the kids are so glad that daddy is back!!

{Here's a close-up of Jocelyn hanging on his leg. I think it's evident that she really missed her daddy and didn't want to let him go! :)} 

Now on to having this baby boy! He's due in just 3 short weeks - although I wouldn't be sad if he chose to come sooner. :)

I'll update again when I can. I have a lot of back blogging to catch up on that I wasn't able to do while taking care of the kids in John's absence. If nothing else, we'll be sure to let you know when our baby boy (still no name) has made his grand appearance!