Tuesday, September 12, 2006

HOME AT LAST!!!

I guess it's about time I post some homecoming pictures! Let's see...on Monday the 4th, everyone started getting into town, so I knew it was really happening...Ryan was coming HOME. Ryan's parents flew in, and Robin, Will, & Jackie drove down from Virginia. We all went to hang his welcome home signs on the highway, ate dinner together, and tried to get to bed early. Ha ha!! The anticipation was literally just as much (if not more) as I felt the night before my wedding, so sleep was the farthest thing from my mind. At 1:30, I finally fell asleep, then popped out of bed at 3:30 to start getting ready.

By 6:45 am, we were all up at the battalion waiting to see him for the first time. It was horrible weather...rainy and humid...but nothing could ruin this day for us! It seemed like FOREVER, but finally at 8:15, we saw the Marines start walking up from the armory. It took me a little while to pick Ryan out, but as soon as I did, you better believe I was running across the parking lot like a crazy person! I could try to describe how amazing it was to see his face and hold him for the first time in 7 months, but words can't do that. It's just the best feeling in the world to know that he's safe and back in my everyday life again. The little things are what I missed most, and now that he's home, I'll never take them for granted. Knowing that this was his last deployment makes it even better!

We spent the next few days unpacking, looking at pictures, eating good food, playing with the dogs, and just spending time with everyone. Then this weekend, we got to celebrate our anniversary at the beach, which was wonderful! I never thought he'd be home in time for that, so it was icing on the cake. I find myself looking at him and pinching myself to see if he's really here. Then, at times, I feel like he never left. Even though Ryan is home, the majority of the battalion is still in Iraq for a couple more weeks, so keep them all in your prayers.
Here are some pictures of the past week.







8 comments:

Finally an Abrigg..... said...

ummm, i recognize those black earrings! !:!)! NYC! WHOOHOOO!

campers said...

Jack is growling at you Molly!!! Look at his teeth!!!!

campers said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ThePoeFam said...

I love that he's home! I couldn't be happier for you two!!! :)

Anonymous said...

I am so glad he is home, Sarah. You guys look really great TOGETHER! I loved reading about it all. Just put a big silly grin on my face. : )

allyo said...

Okay...whose emotions are out of control? I couldn't stop crying while looking at your pictures and reading the blog. Sarah-I admire your strength! I couldn't imagine what you go through while Ryan is gone. I am so happy that God returned him to you safely! Enjoy having him back!

KIM :-) said...

YEA for hubbies being home!! :-)

crazymom said...

Thanks or letting us share in your big day. It was so amazing to witness your family finally coming back together! Ryan looked amazing,, but we never doubted other wise!!! We had a blast and miss you two so much already. We can't wait to see you in October! Give our man a big hug from his Jackie Rose!