When I look back at my life and the book full of memories, I can easily divide my life into chapters.  Things I don't remember from my early life.  Elementary school and my years in Overland Park.  Moving to Shawnee to continue middle school and high school.  My senior year gets its own chapter, because it was just that great.  College and the memories made between 2008 and 2010.  And then begins another chapter... that has defined the last 6 and a half years...

I married Rob.  I left Kansas.  I followed my husband across the country.  And let the Army guide my life.

I'd call this chapter the Army chapter.  And by the end of this year, we will be writing the ending to this chapter and move on in our life.

Rob is getting medically separated from the United States Army.  At just 26, Rob's knees prevent him from keeping up with the physical demands of the Army.  Twenty-six y'all.  The last few months we have been preparing to get that unfit memo.  And it finally came through.

And it is a bittersweet feeling.

Just hours before Rob finally got the call, I was on base running errands.  It's been awhile since my errands took me on post.  But pulling up to the gate.  Handing over my ID card.  Walking around the sea of uniforms at the Soldier Center.  Stopping in at the PX to check out the Halloween selection.  Driving past the hospital I delivered Brooke at 6 months ago.  And then finally pulling through those gates again on my way home, I had an overwhelming feeling.

We will be leaving the community that is the military.  The lifestyle.  All that we have known as a married couple.

It is hitting us tonight.  This is really happening.

We've still got several weeks/months before the med board process will be complete and then there is terminal leave before Rob's final day in the Army.  But LOTS will happen between now and then and the transition has only begun.

SO if you pray - we'd love to be included in your thoughts.  Any good vibes sent our way will be very much appreciated.  We have faith this transition will end up being better for our family... we just have to get to the other side first.



always,
amanda