Nothing prepares you to be a mom. You can read all the books and take all the classes, but there is essentially nothing more than life experiences to teach you. Sure those things help you know a little more about the details of care for your child's growth, health and education but to be a mom, you have to be in it. IN it. In every detail of their lives and grow with them. Invest in them.

This man you see pictured here, is my middle-ish child. My second. My only son. My son is truly gifted in all ways of music both in instrument and voice, he draws well, is over the charts smart and is now serving our county. Nothing prepares you to be a military mom. NOTHNG. Not one book or video will prepare you for this. The best thing to do is get in a good group of other military moms, grab your Bible and some tissues and hold on tight to the rails as you enjoy the ride.

This will be the first year I am not with my son on his birthday. It is heart breaking. I am not sure I will even get to speak to him. I am hoping to though. Often times I want to just get on a flight and sneak him out of his base and bring him home where it is safe and I can see and enjoy him every day. You know, like it use to be! However, my better instincts tell me that if I did that, I would probably not see him for a very long time. So I do like he is, and just hold on. Pray for him and grab onto whatever parts of him I can get and cherish those rare moments. Robert Frost once said, "The best way out is through." So I guess that is what we are going to do have to do.

I wonder if he will be ok with me eating all his birthday cake? :)

Happy Birthday My Sweet Son! I couldn't have asked for a better son than you!

I love you, Mom.