Proud

Being thrown into the army life is a funny thing. David and I say we're fake army. Not because we don't want to be considered army but because as a dentist he has it easy. Compared to these incredible soldiers we're surrounded by on a daily basis we don't feel worthy to be thrown in their league. I'm grateful to see the army with new fresh eyes as an almost outsider because I still stand in awe of everything. Today we went to Ben's deployment ceremony for his company. I looked at my big brother standing in front of over a hundred soldiers and felt so much pride. Not just for Ben and what a great man he is but for the soldiers behind them who are heading to Afghanistan (the majority for their first time).

 That's Ben to the left of the flag.

In Church on Sunday a member of the Stake Presidency was explaining to the ward that Ben will be gone for a few months but will stay Bishop. He then said he knew he was going to be okay. As he talked about Ben and what a great guy he is I started to cry. I'm pretty sure I was subbing in for I'm sure what would be my mom's emotions had she been there. I was just so darn proud to be his little sister. I've always been proud of my brothers serving in the Army and their deployments but seeing it first hand makes it real. My Dad always calls us "The A team" and I was proud to represent 1/10  of the A team and the pride I know we all feel for Ben and his service.

Then while the National Anthem played I looked around at the women and felt so proud to be an Army wife. I shoudn't be associated with these women. Not by a long shot but I'm grateful none the less. I'm surrounded by so many women who accept this as part of their lives. Who have been without their husbands on multiple occassions for really long periods of time. It's not the norm for me to hear about it. I hope it never becomes normal. I want to always be as amazed as I now am at these families.

It's just what I needed after the election. I don't need to watch the news. This morning I knew our country was just as grand as it's always been. Hooah!!