Tackling deployment, one day at a time.

I'm embarrassed to say that it took getting sick with the flu and being stuck at home with nothing to do to get me to do another blog post. I figured it's about time though that I give you a little update on our lives.

It's now been more than 7 weeks (wahoo!) since Reece left for Afghanistan. There have been some hard days, some very hard nights, but also many joys in between. At the end of each day I always find much to be thankful for. Although he may be thousands of miles away, I have the love, support and faithfulness of the most wonderful man in the world and most importantly we have a God who is leading, guiding, protecting and upholding us through each step of this journey.

Reece has been very blessed so far in his work in Afghanistan. We are so thankful for the gifts God has given him and his ability to use them in this service. He's had the opportunity to share some amazing stories and photos of what the Marines are accomplishing there. However, this doesn't come without sacrifice and it's not an easy task he's been called to. Most of us after a long day of work can look forward to coming home to unwind and escape from the day or look forward to the weekend, but this is not an option for these guys. There have been some frustrating and exhausting days, but overall I'm thankful that God has equipped Reece with the strength and perspective he needs to accomplish the tasks that He's called him to. With reliance on God and trust in His protection and plan, we find the strength to face each day. We've been very thankful to have good communication so far and we hope and pray this will continue in the days ahead.

Click the link and type 'Lodder' into the search box to see Reece's latest work from Afghanistan: http://www.dvidshub.net/portfolio/images

My handsome hubby in Afghanistan.

As for me, well, I'm doing pretty good. My days are always full and I'm thankful to have enjoyable work and adorable kiddos to keep me busy and distracted. The nights seem to be the worst, as facing an empty bed never seems to get easier and I usually eat dinner on the go to avoid sitting alone at the table but, I'm trying to develop healthy habits to help with this. I'm thankful though for how God has blessed Reece and I during this separation. We've not only grown stronger in our relationship with each other, but we've also grown stronger in our trust and reliance on the Lord. Without Him, I'm not sure where we'd be.

I haven't been great lately when it comes to taking my camera out, but here are a few photos from the past while. Enjoy!