And he's been home for a bit... sorry for the delay! Really though, there is so much to write about I'm a bit overwhelmed.
The homecoming part went by really quickly, partly due to nerves, and partly because I only found out about 5 hours before, instead of the 18-or-so I was expecting! B called me the morning of Nov 28th from an airport in New Hampshire (!!!!) saying that he'd be home that day. What??!?!? I mean, obviously I was crazy excited, but totally was expecting to have more time to get ready. I just barely had enough time to put myself together and head out the door!
Thankfully, a roster of the soldiers on the flight had been posted at the ceremony field, so I was assured that I was there at the right time. About an hour later the busses pulled up and the men marched on, a quick prayer for thanks, and bam, Brian!!!! And really, it hasn't felt crazy or awkward or anything like that yet. I think having another year of marriage under our belt has helped, but things are really moving smoothly so far.
(Except for the occasional 'No, we don't put bags full of garbage on the floor until later' and 'Yes, I know you've missed Taco Bell, but I'm pretty sure eating it that often isn't really healthy', and the one 'Just because I've done all the banking and bills for the last year doesn't mean that you are incapable of going to the bank and figuring this one out yourself, 26 year-old adult man that I'm married to...') Ha!
Really though, it is so amazing to have him around and safe. I am so happy that he survived unscathed, and we have 12 (hopefully) months of guaranteed time together. He is already back to work before his leave, and I am taking full advantage of days at home, catching up on schoolwork, housework, and becoming reacquainted with my crock-pot! In just a few short weeks we're taking an extended vacation to Maine, to spend the holidays with family and greet our new neice!
Yay! And thank you so much to the ones who have listened and offered advice during the sappy, hopeless, super-emotional craziness of the last 12 months or so -- I'm not sure how I would have done it without such an outlet! Thank you!!