Day #1 - 28 Feb 2009 - "Thank you for your service ..."

My journey began with a 4am wake up and one last cup of coffee at home while sitting quietly with Christen. Neither one of us had much to say but we both knew what the other was thinking ... "This is really going to suck and I don't know how we are going to get through this!" The whole crew then drove me to the airport and after a potty break for Ben (the first of 29 for the day) we had a teary goodbye at the security checkpoint. Christen was trying to be strong despite the tears welling up in her eyes. The sadness in Jenna’s big brown eyes nearly broke my heart, Ben just looked confused, and Ryan gave me a big smile as he sat there oblivious to what was really going on.

The reality of what I am undertaking didn’t really set in until that morning. The night before Christen had given me a scrap book containing emails and messages from friends and family that she had put together. It was amazing. And for the first time the importance of what I was doing began to hit home. The kind words of encouragement and support from everyone helped ease the pain of leaving those I care so much about. The sentiment continued at the airport as I had multiple people (random strangers) approach me and thank me for what I am doing for our country. The Delta employee at the gate stopped me and asked me to step aside while boarding. My fears that there was some problem with my ticket melted away when she upgraded my seat to first class and thanked me for serving our country.

Then as our plane landed in Georgia, the flight attendant made an announcement thanking all of the military passengers and this was followed by a round of applause from the other passengers. While awaiting my connecting flight in Georgia, a group of soldiers in uniform returning from Iraq emerged from one of the gates and everyone in the surrounding area began clapping and thanking them for their service. It was really inspiring. And although leaving Christen and the kids is the hardest thing I have yet to do ... the tremendous amount of support I have received so far truly makes me proud to embark on this journey, and endure the sacrifices all military families have dealt with during times of war. Yeah I know, it is only day #1 of 180, but I am trying to be optimistic people ...