Friday, June 2, 2006

GOD SPEED, GABE.

Gabe left this morning.  American Airlines had made all of the flight arrangements thanks to the donations of frequent flier miles from so many wonderful, anonymous Americans.  It was a good visit.  Too short, but good.    My only regret was that we could not have my Grandson here with us, but Gabe was still able to spend time with him and for that I am grateful.

We live just minutes away from the airport and after dropping Gabe off, I stood in the back yard until his plane flew over head and then disappeared over the trees.  Listening to his stories these past two weeks, watching his face, his expressions, seeing the man and the soldier he has become, I found confidence in the knowledge that my boy will be okay.  He is well trained and works along side of some of America's finest defenders.  Watching him walking away this morning to return to Iraq was not as hard as I thought it would be.  Okay, I have been on the verge of tears all day, but so far have been able to blink them away.

Tonight, however, will be one heck of a long night.

20 comments:

Anonymous said...

God bless you, Gabe and the entire family. Love and prayers to all.
Bill

Anonymous said...

God Bless you :)

Deb

Anonymous said...

I pray for Gabe's continued safety and well being, and peace of mind for you.  ((((Jo))))  You're a strong woman, you'll be just fine ;)

That is an absolutely beautiful family picture!

Nicole

Anonymous said...

You have such a gorgeous family... {{{ Jody }}} Know that my prayers are with Gabe for his safety and you for comfort.

be well,
Dawn

Anonymous said...

Beautiful family and a beautiful picture. My prayers are for Gabe's safety and your comfort.

Anonymous said...

God bless you and keep you through the night...and Gabe through the rest of his deployment and beyond.

Anonymous said...

awwwwwwwwwwww

(( HUGS )))

Anonymous said...

Hugs to you my Daughter.  I caused those same thoughts every time I left on duty assignments from you guys in our family.  I came back every time because of your love and prayers, so don't let Gabe down.  Communicate regularly and PRAY.  He'll be okay with ALL of our help.
And to you Gabe..........."Keep hunkered down.  We're behind you 100%"

Dad/Grandpa

Anonymous said...

I'm glad you had some time to rest that Gabe was home safe.. I wish you didn't have to go thru this again..  here's hoping this time over this goes faster and he's deployed back to the states soon!

Anonymous said...

God bless him. Bless them all.

Anonymous said...

Jody-I will continue to pray for Gabe and the family. I am so happy for you that you had a lovely visit. Such a beautiful picture of the family.
Michele - glensfork4

Anonymous said...

That visit went by way too quickly!  I can just imagine how quicklyit went by for you!  I'm so sorry you didn't get to see that adorable grandbaby.  Do you hae to wait for Gabe to come home again or can you visit the baby without him?

I'm continuing to pray for Gabe and his next, safe return.

Jeanne

Anonymous said...

I for one, was not ready for him to leave again, my heart is heavy for you and your family this morning....ok, When is his next leave??? lol lol lol

Anonymous said...

i'm glad you got to spend time with your son...prayers he is safe until the next visit...

Anonymous said...

hugs!
Becky

Anonymous said...

It does not seem like he was home long enough. We were at the stable all weekend, the horse bit her tongue almost in half. Horses do not cooperate with getting tongues stitched,so we needed to stay with her in case it started bleeding heavily again.

I want to call you soon and give you a big verbal hug...

lots of love to all of you,
Kas and your kentucky family

Anonymous said...

GOD Speed....that just feels right. Prayers to you & yours & the one so far away.


PS> Your crew sure does love the long hair. Ya' look great.


Brenda
http://journals.aol.com/xomywayox/BrendasWay/

Anonymous said...

((((((((Dorn)))))))))  I know this has to be so tough for you! You are such a strong woman, and I am proud to know you!  God Bless Gabe and his service to our country!

:)

Anonymous said...

So sorry Gabe had to go back. But you can see the man he is becoming. I'm happy that you have more confidence in him. How nice that he got to spend time with his son. I know you'll see your grandson soon.

Anonymous said...

I think of you every few minutes it seems.  You are so brave...