In the spring of 2009, I got the news that my precious son Dude, was going to be deployed. Over the last 10 months or so, I dealt with so many emotions. I knew that my son had made the best decision of his adult life, by joining the 278th of the Tennessee National Guard, but knew that this was not only a test of strength and endurance for him, but a time for me to rely on the strength of the Lord's arms to hold me.
I spent a lot of time on my knees asking the Lord for His peace....that which "passes all understanding", and He was and is so faithful to lovingly grant that on me.
As time drew closer to prepare for the trip to
The Spirit of God spoke to my heart and said, "I can handle that". Being the sometimes stubborn child, I said, "OK Lord - I'll just ask for a couple in case I need them". Again He said, "Trust me....I can handle that for you". Well let me tell you - He was faithful to his promise!
Of COURSE I cried!
And yes, I sobbed as I saw my son walking back to his barracks as we were leaving, but by the time we got to the back gate of the Camp, I was once again flooded with that sense of peace, and the tears were no more.
To totally trust God with your only son.....
Scary.....YES, but I'm also reaping the blessings of His Peace, in just trusting Him.
As Mary said in Luke 2: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. The Mighty One has done great things for me – Holy is His Name.”
My son, along with over 3000 other troops were given four "Family Days" and then honored at a send off ceremony on Friday, February 5.
Below are photos of my time with him....memories I'll cherish every day of my life!
Cutting up together - trying to pull out the wrinkles, like they did to Robin Williams as Peter Pan in "Hook"....lol
Hanging out at our hotel, after getting back from The Hard Rock
Enjoying steak at Outback on our last night together, thanks to my endodontist Dr. Sinopoli, who gave me $100 to take Dude out
One Nation Under God
The Army Band - who even played "Rocky Top" for all the people of TN!
Over 3000 troops in the 278th, and over 9000 family and friends to honor them at the send off ceremony
The barracks where Dude lived for 6 weeks at Camp Shelby
Kissing my soldier after the send off ceremony
As a dear friend said..."This looks like Mommy Heaven".....yes indeed!
My sweatshirt says it all.....
Ok......just one more hug before I have to go....
My last goodbye - laying hands on my precious son as I said a prayer for him
U.S. Army MRAPs (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected)- what Dude will be driving in Iraq. I am so thankful that these were the last thing I saw as we were leaving the back gate - I needed to see for myself, the size of them, and how well armored and protected my son will be.
I LOVE YOU "ALL THE NUMBERS" DUDE....see you when you get home!
