Tuesday, November 17, 2009

a full week and a full heart

These have been on my camera. They're snapshots from the last seven days before Jim left. Thought I'd share, because why not? They make me happy.

Remember at the beginning of the year when Jim took command? Well, last week he handed his unit off to another and took a different job within the battalion. It's a bittersweet day when you watch your husband fall into the formation of soldiers he's worked so hard for, instead of being in front of it. But for Jim this is a step up. I'm very proud he's been selected for this new position. Eli is, too. Can't you tell? Or maybe he's trying to escape...

One of our goals before Jim left was to ride the tramway up the Franklin Mountains and watch the sunset. Thanks to some friends who were willing to watch Eli, we had a delightful night just the two of us. It was crazy windy, but crazy worth it. If not just for that last picture that makes my heart skip a beat every time I see it.

As we waited Sunday morning for Jim's flight to leave, we found a warm corner and played one of our favorite games, Cribbage. Now it should be noted that I've been playing this game all my life, and Jim hasn't. So, I like to think of myself as way better than him. After all, it's about numbers and counting and I'm into that. But this last game I wasn't so lucky. Jim only needed seven points, and he got exactly that. Seven. Before the hand was played he told that if he wins I had to deploy for him. Gratefully he didn't hold me to it. Because among other reasons, I don't look good in camouflage.

These are my favorites. There have been many bonding moments with Eli. He smiles alot now and even coos back when we have conversations with him. He is definitely our favorite kid in the world. Jim soaked him in and is looking forward to running around with him when he returns.
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I want to thank you all for blowing my inbox away with all the warm sentiments you left in my comments and on Facebook. It's hard to feel lonely when you guys have me surrounded. Your prayers mean the world to me, as the power of God in our lives can make mountains move. Let alone comfort a grieving heart. My heart is full. Which is quite an accomplishment. You... and I mean it... you have helped me get through the last few days.

Thank you.

11 comments:

LifeAtTheCircus.com said...

Aw Karen! How I wish you were here and we could go get some fraps together. Soon enough I suppose. We love you guys. I hope you know that. From the bottom of our hearts. And we're thinking and praying for you. I am so proud of you both and the sacrifices you make for us all and the way you do so.

And I love, LOVE that pic of you guys on the mountain... what a keeper!

Shawna said...

I think Eli is looking at the girl. :) Love the picture on the mountain!

Muthering Heights said...

I'm glad you were able to have some time alone before he left!

Happy said...

Well, I am glad your heart is feeling full. And those pictures are awesome!

Thoughts and prayers are still with you and will continue to be!

boqpod said...

We'll be keeping you, Jim & Eli in our nightly prayers at Abigail's bedside!

The Pods

Unknown said...

With tears again - I am so touched by how much God's love and mercy can carry us through tough times. Your faith is strong and you bring Him glory! Super great pictures and memories to hold onto through the months ahead. So glad that you had that extra time.
Love you guys and keeping all of you in prayer. Always

Cindy said...

Thanks for sharing! Your heart your life your son you husband you share it all I am blessed to be able to call you friend! May the Lord bless you and Keep you make he make is face to shine upon you and give you peace!

erin w. said...

I love cribbage too! Did your dad teach you. That was the game me, katie & dad always played growing up. :-) I'm so glad you got time alone. I'm praying for you.

mrsbuckett said...

You definitely are loved friend and know you are not alone even in the worst of it.
My how eli is growing. It's great to hear he's smiling and cooing. It just gets better and better and better! Angus was around the same age as Eli when Scott deployed and returned after he was almost one and a half. They had and still have a blast together. God will bless the time and grow eli and Jim through it even as they are apart.
Oh and your mac has a great program for making dvds to send...that's how I kept Scott in the loop of what Angus was doing each month.
I'll stop rambling...take care friend. You are loved and missed.

Lindsay Wilkins said...

Hi Karen!
I am a friend of Crystal's, fellow military wife (Navy) and sister in Christ. Crystal sent me a link to your blog and I thought I'd let you know that I am praying for you. Thanks for sharing your honest and raw thoughts. Praying that Christ gives you a joy and a peace that passes understanding this week!

Lindsay
(www.chrisandlindsaywilkins.blogspot.com)

nest4ever said...

I know you know this, but I had to continually remind myself!
One day at a time sometimes one molment at a time and ONLY by the grace of God. ~love you~