In about a week I will begin my deployment. I had been looking forward to going to the Middle East because I have missed being on active duty but, I am starting to get the butterflies in the stomach feeling about going. One of a few reasons I left active duty was to get married and start my life with Melissa. When I left, I felt a little relieved about not having to move every few years and dealing with the all the issues I had to put up with while serving in the Navy. However, I knew I would miss the camaraderie and friends I made while serving. The job I did in the military, when not mired with the stupidity I had to deal with, is a huge kick in the pants. I had fun and I missed that fun once I got out.

I have to admit that I was a bit excited about the idea of going back to the Middle East when I found out I was being recalled to active duty. I previously served in the Middle East during my enlistment and I enjoyed my time there but, now I am finding myself not really all that excited about going. I have fallen in love all over again with Melissa and everything about her in this past year of being home. She is more astonishing than I think she realizes or gives herself credit for. I know I am going to miss her and the girls deeply. I have become a better person with her and the girls in my life. I have noticed that I have become more tolerant of things than I used to. I know this is a direct influence of her and the girls and I want to thank them and let them know just how much I love them for it.

This is my last week at my “Civilian” jobs and I will be taking some time off to spend with my family and friends before I go. I will miss everyone greatly and appreciate what everyone has done for me while preparing for this deployment. I just hope the Navy can get me home in the time they say we will be over there.

Rodney