A Real Date Night for the NewlyWeds: A Mother’s Worries for the Years to Come

Tonight, as I sit and listen to the rain, our happy newlyweds are out on the town dining and spending time together. For most mothers, this would be a moment of happiness. A moment where I realize that my daughter has found the one who makes her smile. A moment where I am thankful that the two of them waited to put the children to bed before heading out because they do not want to miss a moment with them. A moment where I am smiling because my daughter is finally with a man who has family values is committed to her and her children and puts the needs of others before his own. For all of these things, I am happy and thankful.

But it is in this happiness, this gratitude, that I find my concerns. You see, in eleven days, my daughter will be waving to an airplane that will take her new husband on a journey to Japan where he will spend the next 24 months. She will proudly speak of her marine who is serving his country and find comfort among the many support groups related to those who are missing their loved ones who serve. They will face time when possible and send sweet letters or packages to one another. He will continue to use Amazon to send gifts to her and the children (Amazon actually wraps or uses gift bags!) while she continues to make silly “open when” cards to stay in touch and show him how much she misses him. And they will count down the days until they see each other again.

I see her so happy right now and want to just enjoy this time. But, as mothers, we know to always have a plan. To always think ahead. In this mentality, I sit here wondering how hard this will be for them and how I can make it easier for her. Of course, there is nothing that I can do to change the situation, but I am sure as Hell gonna try to help time pass. Hmmm, I am thinking lots of vacations and beach therapy. Maybe this won’t be so bad after all (Just Kidding, Mikey!!!)

But seriously, this will be hard. I wish I could take away the hard parts of life for her. But instead, I will just sit here and wonder. I will plan. And I will pray.

 

To all the men and women who sacrifice on either side of this, I send my thoughts and gratitude!

“Gigi”

 

 

 

 

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Blogging Journey Day 18: To New Friends

WOW! I never would have guessed that only 18 days into this journey that we would have had a day yesterday with over 500 views reaching more than 1700 views to date. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting us know that we are not on this journey alone.

I believe that this was the primary reason for beginning this blog, to know that we are not alone and to let others know the same. Life is hard but it is so worth it and much more enjoyable when we have others to walk beside. So, thank you for being by our side.

There are so many different avenues that we discuss because there are so many different aspects of our lives that we feel others may also be encountering. A lot of our views have been related to our CPS case and I pray that we are providing a sense of hope for those who are going through this and a greater awareness to those who continue to believe the assumptions about CPS. Ashley has opened up about her relationship with Mikey and has found support from other men and women who have a significant other serving in the armed forces. There is a great pride for their loved ones but also a loneliness that can be lessened through these friendships. Ashley has also been able to connect with other mothers to discuss tips and swap stories. I have met countless of other families of children with Down’s Syndrome and we have been able to discuss the beauty of celebrating every milestone. You all have celebrated my Gloria’s birthday with us, prayed for my dear friend Heather as she nearly lost her life and underwent amputation. You have tagged along to the beach and heard the wisdom of my granddaughter, Clarabelle. There are so many journeys to come and more details to provide. We look forward to continuing to meet others and grow as a community who will overcome all obstacles together!

Together, we are better!

“Gigi”