April is the month of the military child.  I've spent years being surrounded by friends raising children in the shadow of the military.  Strong willed children that love with all of their might.  "Typical children" that carry an extra burden and experience more than most do.

This year as the month of April dawned, so did the realization that I didn't just become a new mom to my sweet Grace... but I became a mom to a military child.  Who will grow up proud of her dad and his accomplishments.  But will also feel the pain of him being away for days and months at a time.  Which will not be easy, for any of us.

My hope for Grace is that she will grow up to be an outgoing, social child.  Not afraid of the obstacles life will throw at her at a young age.  I hope that she grows up knowing that daddy does what he does to protect her and provide for her.  I want her to experience life and all it has to offer, no matter where we are and who surrounds us.  I want her to know the love of family... even if we aren't right down the road.

Above all else, I want Grace to feel proud to be her father's daughter.  Proud to be an American.  Proud to be a military child.

After all... not everyone can claim something so special.

Linking up @ Daffodil's today.  And you should too.