Once again, I was fortunate enough to be flown home to say my goodbyes to my grandma.

I’m still at such a loss. She was such a vibrant woman before the illness and we all expected to have her around for many more years than we were allowed. My mother is in far worse shape than I am. I may have lost both of my grandparents in less than two months, but mom lost both of her parents. They were her rock. It breaks my heart. She has voice messages from grandpa still saved on her phone and she listens to them daily. She watches the slideshows we put together for both parents every day.

I’m reminded daily that I am thousands of miles from home and that I didn’t spend enough time with either of my grandparents. I know we all wish for more time when the end rears its ugly head and this is no exception. I know she loved me dearly and cherished every second we spent together. Still…I am saddened by the very adult realization that I can’t always be where I need to be for things of that nature. I’m truly looking forward to going back to the mainland after this tour. I hope we are that lucky.

I’ve barely been back to the 808 for a week and I’m struggling to decide where the heck we will be traveling to next. The Mister is heading for training for a month, so I’m trying to find ways to fill my time with the furkids.  Our little stray Taz is back in the house and lets us play with her now, so I’m planning on working with her extensively. She needs to find a new home soon. As much as I love this little one, we have enough critters. Especially if a larger dog is in our future for the next duty station. 

We didn’t end up taking any side trips before I left or after I got back, so I’m itching to get out and see something new. It’s been a four day weekend thus far and we’ve been pretty sedentary. We went to a couple movies Friday and hung out at home today. I’m hoping for something tomorrow or Monday, even if it’s small. I really just need to check some more off my list.

Didn’t really get any photos at home either. I took some of the funeral and snapped a few with my grandad (who’s also in a care center) but nothing beyond that. The only other update I have is that I chopped off 3 inches of my hair while I was home. It feels SO much better.

More as soon as I have anything. Might be relatively quiet until training is over. I’m aiming for someone to come visit. but not holding my breath.

Until then!

Cheers.

-A. xoxo