WELCOME HOME!!

This afternoon/tonight, Tyler and I attended our first Redeployment (aka Welcome Home) ceremony for troops returning from Afghanistan. Our dear friend Molly's husband returned home tonight, so we went to sit with her and wait, but also to take pictures of their family as they reunited.

In true Army style it was "Hurry up and wait." The ceremony was supposed to be last night at 2000, but weather delayed the plane so the ceremony was delayed until 1340 today. This morning, the flight was delayed again and the ceremony was pushed back to 1830 tonight. Families began arriving at the gym at 1630 to find the perfect seat. As time marched on, we were told troops would be arriving closer to 1700. The last few hours and days have been the hardest for these families ... months and weeks go by fast, but when you are hours away from greeting your loved one, times goes along so, so slowly. Fortunately for some, the wait is over.

I am just so overwhelmed with respect for the soldiers and wives who've been holding down the homefront, happiness, joy, excitement and tons of other emotions because soldiers are making it home safely and reuniting with their families. I have several friends who's husbands are returning in the coming weeks .. I could not be more excited for them. If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of these ceremonies, please do -- it will be one of the sweetest experiences of your life.

The sign that students from my school signed. Many of their Moms and Dads will return in the coming weeks, too.

The troops are here. That is Molly in the flowered cardigan, and me in the red vest, holding Molly's son.

Here they are!!

The Dudleys looking at their Dad!

Family's reuniting.

More reunions.