Anticipation

The holidays have an almost magical appeal to them. Reunion offers sweet anticipation, long-lost familiarity, and a sense of Home! Being on the road, or away from family, friends, and friendly faces presents unique challenges--mental, spiritual, and even physical. The military life is not the only one that repeatedly asks its people to be away from those that they love. Strength through adversity should be a military family motto, however, as moms, kids, and dads all learn to deal with "new normals" at each change of station. It's important to remember that your time together is precious, that the ones you love are thinking about you, too, and that the sands in the hour glass will slowly, but surely, count down until you see each other again. This holiday season, take a few deep breaths of cold air together, and express your thanks and appreciation for the family members that make you strong! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Melissa has an eye for photography and a remarkable flair for life! If not a tie with Ty, I claim biggest fan status and request that this new year, 2013, be a renewal year for the Project 52! The whirlwinds of change, moving, life speeding up and the various trappings of day-to-day business kept her away from her passion for at least 20 of the weeks of 2010 and more in 2011. Please vote yes in the comments below if you, too, would like to see a year through the lens and eyes of my talented wife!