The Fall Season - Once Again!

Now that the time has officially changed from my beloved daylight savings time to standard time, fall is officially upon us. I love the spring and summer months because of the activity and anticipation of new adventures. However, this fall has already brought some interesting changes in my life.

First was the arrival of Thomas from Iraq. Candie, and many other Army families, had been anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones, almost since their deployment in August 2006. Then midway through the deployment came word that the deployment had been extended. I was proud to see my daughter recover from her disappointment and continue to be a source of encouragement and comfort to her husband, Thomas. Now that he has finally returned they will be able to live and love as a married couple again. It's a reminder to me that she is a grown, independent woman now.

The other change in my life was one that I'd thought about as a vague possibility someday, but was totally unprepared for. This past Halloween was the first since 1975 that I was not out trick-or-treating with one of my children! Not that my youngest didn't trick-or-treat, she just went with her friends and one of their moms. It was her first move toward independence from me. I must admit, this development left me with mixed emotions! I often joke with my younger kids, telling them that when I had them, they'd promised not to grow up but they did anyway. My poor husband tried his best to comfort me, but I was beyond being consoled. So, in order to fill the evening, we attended the vigil mass for All Saints Day then went to Target. Life, it seems, goes on and we either sink or swim with each life-changing moment. Personally, I've always chosen to swim so next year will probably dress-up in some sort of costume and hand out candy.

Please continue to pray for our troops and their families. They need extra prayers now that the holidays are close at hand.