Today my parents begin their journey back to a life in the USA. They have been living in Ramstein, Germany, per Uncle Sam’s orders. Now Uncle Sam has deemed it necessary that my father continue his career at Wright-Patt AFB, near Dayton, OH.
I know that McMom & McDad are sad to leave Germany, especially since they have had a lot of difficulties in the past year with McDad’s job. But, since “Home is where the Air Force sends you,” they are moving on with Brave Faces and leaning on God to show them where they fit in His plan.
Being an ex-military brat, I know that those Brave Faces are issued at Military Clothing, the same place where McDad has to purchase his uniforms and Air Force paraphanalia. Even AFN (the Armed Forces Network) radio station has commercials asking parents to Be Happy about their moves so that the transition is easier for the children. Since my parents are empty-nesters, they really don’t have to put on a Brave Face for the children. Even Esau, their dog, doesn’t need them to put on a Brave Face since Esau has no idea what is going on. But I know from personal experience that Brave Faces are important for your own soul, so that the transition is easier for you.
Yet, more importantly, knowing the God has you in the palm of His hand is even more important than the military issued Brave Face. I know that this move is harder for my parents than previous moves, but their faith is so strong that the devil is having a really hard time shaking them. And God has given them a symbol of hope- after 2 years of waiting for the news, their first grandchild is on the way! (Side note- when McDad started praying for his grandchild, he named the grandchild Hope. McMom said to McDad, “Do you think all babies are girls?” McDad said, “All mine were.”)
Personally, I am very excited that they are moving back to the US. I am especially excited because they will be in the same time zone, something that hasn’t happened since I was a senior in college. (6 years ago for those of you keeping score at home.) No more counting the hours until I can safely call my parents to say hello or give them some news. Vists with them will no longer be wishful thinking.
I am excited that when the day in October arrives and they become first time Grandparents, they will be only an 8 hour drive away and not an 8 hour plane ride. Taking The Gummy Bear to Ohio for his/her first Christmas should be a lot easier (and happier) than an overseas flight with a 2 month old child.
So, when my parents drive to my house tomorrow afternoon, I will greet them with happiness and my own hope that the future will be filled with happiness and the great things God will do.
Welcome Home McMom & McDad!

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