Preparing for home...

Today, I did something I haven't done in nearly 7 months. I bought men's shampoo, body wash, razors, shaving cream and a manly colored toothbrush. I bought men's cargo shorts, flip flops, polo shirts and t-shirts. This means one thing...he's really coming home.

I leave Tuesday for STL. My family and extended family are both so concerned of my safety while making the 4.5 hour drive that an aunt has actually volunteered to drive up with me and then fly back the next day. She is retired Delta Airline so she gets to go for free. I just may take her up on that offer. However, a piece of me would just like some peace and quiet and a chance to reflect on what is about to happen.

I can't wait. I can't wait to go to our small church on Sunday morning and shock everyone. I can't wait to see the faces of family and friends when they see Chris for the first time again. But, more than anything I can't wait to hug him. I've missed him so much and this deployment is finally coming to an end.