There are some days so memorable, you never forget a single detail.  For me, along with my children’s birthdays and my wedding, the day my husband deployed is at the top of the list.  It was a warmish day in March, our daughter was just getting the hang of walking, her shirt had a purple flower on it, my best friend was there snapping pictures… the sun dipped below the horizon and it started to get cold.  There was a last hug and kiss, a “see you later,” salty tears and a short drive home where both Delilah and I went straight to bed….

I know some may say they wouldn’t want a reminder of those difficult moments.  When I look back at the most moving images I have, the ones from that night are hand-down the most emotional.  That time is such a vivid memory and even as time passes, I cherish the photographs of that struggle along with the joyful smiles when we welcomed him home.

Last night I was there as another family said their “see you later”s. Wishing comfort and strength to the ones at home and a safe return to those headed far away…

See more of this family here.