I’ve been trying to be more present in the here and now, despite the fact that I’m obviously anxiously ticking the days of this deployment away. So much happens during a 9-month deployment, and there are so many things that make me smile that I really need to stop, slow down, take a breath, and appreciate what’s happening in the moment, as well. The days will keep ticking, regardless, but if that’s all I focus on, I’m sure to miss out on some of the beautiful moments happening.
So, for today’s Friday five, I want to take a step back. Last week, I focused on things I can’t wait for because, let’s be honest, I’m inherently impatient. This week, however, I want to focus on five things that make me smile and happy in the moment because there are plenty of those, too.
Mieke is Two Months Old
I almost can’t believe this, myself! I feel like just yesterday I was lamenting about the fact that I was going to be pregnant forever, and I didn’t even make it to my due date! Mieke is just the sweetest baby. Yes, she’s a baby, and she cries (or, as Spencer says, “she’s hurting my brain, mommy.”) For the most part though, she’s sweet, mild-tempered, and loves to watch her brothers’ every moves. She’s cooing more, spitting up less, and I’ve loved every second of my pseudo-maternity leave with her. She’s going to the boys’ preschool/daycare next week, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t going to miss kissing her cheekies every time I want.
Time with Friends
One of the hardest parts about our move to JBLM was the fact that I left my people behind. It took me nearly three years to find my tribe at Fort Drum, and I was sad, resentful, and a pretty sure I’d never make great friends again. I’ve been so blessed to meet fantastic people though, and some have become fast friends with whom I actually enjoy spending time. And that’s saying something because I’m a quirky loner, perfectly content to sit at home with a glass of wine and a sullen demeanor. Instead, we spent a fantastic Memorial Day momming and just enjoying adult company. Simple friendships might just be the best.
Porter’s Upcoming Birthday
This little goon simultaneously drives me batty and makes me love him so hard. He has such a strong will and, beneath his little temper tantrums and terrible twos is a sweet, caring, adorable little boy that we’d be lost without. He’ll turn three on June 9th, and I’m a little baffled by how quickly time flies. I’m excited to throw this little boy a tiny little party worthy of him and all his quirkiness because he deserves a day in which he alone is celebrated.
Moments with My Boys
I remember during Ryan’s last deployment that I felt like I was spiraling out of control 90% of the time. To be honest, it was probably the worst deployment I’ll ever experience, but I didn’t always sit back and just appreciate this solo time with them. The past few evenings, however, my boys have wanted to wear their Halloween costumes from last year to play, and then they both randomly crawled into my lap. These cuddles won’t keep, so you’d better believe I took them.
Slowly Decorating Our Home
In the past, I’ve always tried to decorate our home in one fell swoop. What can I say? I’m impatient. This time, however, I’ve been taking my time. Piece by piece, room by room, I’m slowly making this house a home, and watching things come together makes my heart so happy. Moving here was a fantastic choice, and there’s something about the light that comes in the many windows and the fact that it’s smaller and cozier that just makes my heart happy. I can’t wait to share more, but I want to take the time to highlight each room as I go because it’s been a labor of love. So…patience!
I like to think there are always going to be things that make me smile – whether I’m having a hard day, or week, or not. I love taking the time to really put these thoughts down, a bit like a gratitude journal, simply because I can look back and reflect on them when the times get tough. So, cheers to another weekend with my little loves…and hopefully some fun and more things that make me smile ahead!
