Meet
my good friend Erin (we have known each other since Kindergarten, crazy I know
lol) and her family (Husband Joe and daughter Caitlin.)
It’s
always an honor when I am able to be there for families to welcome home their
love ones. I won’t kid; I do tear up every time! Joe has been gone for a year
and Erin has done amazing handling all that couples do together as a team.
Proud of you sweet heart!
As
we waited for the buses to roll in, I had the pleasure to meet some of Erin’s
friends (Leah and Amy-amazing women) who were there to support her with
welcoming Joe home. We all shared some laughs, great conversation, and mostly
the support that comes with welcoming home loved ones. Taking random memorable
shots of everyone and little Caitlin, even though she wanted nothing to do with
the camera lol. I think I need to book a time slot with her booking agent hehe
As
we waited for that 5 minute announcement that the buses were on their way, we
gathered Joe’s sea bags and waited patiently. I can hear the amazing sound of
Harleys roaring as those great men/women escort those buses to all who are
waiting. *I may or may not be crying right now lol* I can see everyone smiling,
some crying and those children faces filled with excitement. Caitlin was
unsure, that daddy was coming home and a year is a long time. But let me tell you
when Joe walked off that bus and headed towards Erin & his baby girl. Caitlin
shed a tear and held on to her daddy and Erin was so happy to have him home.
Leah even cried too, because again those who have spouse in the military
understand the sacrifice given to be apart that long. Joe is home safely and in
loving arms.
Erin
had mention that all Joe wanted when he returns home was yogurt & a hot dog
from a wonderful place in Fallbrook called the Yogurt Palace. This place has
been there since I was a kid and amazing. Well Erin had plan a surprise to meet
the rest of their family at the Yogurt Palace to surprise Joe. Then I realize
it was Presidents day and that maybe they were closed or closed early. With a
quick phone call, thanks to the amazing owner & employees of the Yogurt
Palace they stayed open longer in order for Joe to enjoy a welcome home treat. But
that’s not what really makes this homecoming!!! Caitlin had fallen asleep on
the way to the place, Erin had carried her in passed out-we all enjoyed yogurts
and when Caitlin woke up she had thought she dream daddy was home. Erin softly
told her “Caitlin daddy is home, look over there!” I never had the honor to
witness a joy like that. Caitlin jump off Erin’s lap and ran over to daddy
because it was all so real. She enjoyed daddy’s yogurt and shared a hot dog
with him. Now how can that not be the most amazing welcome home gift?!
Welcome
home Joe and the rest of the men/women! Thank you for your service and to all
the families your sacrifice you made.
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