The love of my life has returned!!!

Yes! The day has finally come!! The day we are reunited. We were all so excited for this day and I didn't want to miss anything. So I asked my dear friend Megan if she would come and take pictures for me. She was so willing to help. She even rearranged some things in her life so she could be there for me. And what I got from her generosity was nothing less then priceless. I was just looking for a few pictures for documenting the occasion. But what it turned out to be was a story of our lives in that moment. You can see every emotion. The waiting, the anticipation, the excitement, the joy and the love. All of this in these photos. It is such a blessing for us have these. I can always look back on them and remember that it was difficult but very rewarding. Everybody hates deployments but the best part of it is the homecoming. I hope you enjoy these beautiful photos. And be prepared there are a lot of them. I couldn't just pick a few when so many help tell the story of that wonderful moment. Thanks again Megan! I owe you one!!!

Chapter 1: The wait!

We arrived a half hour earlier then they said to just to be safe. But the plane was about 45 min. late. So the wait time was long and hot. There was a nice breeze but only occasionally. Thank goodness for shade.

Kelland had a hard time waking up from his nap. This kid can sleep. I picked him up from school in the middle of his nap and he slept in the car on the way there, in the stroller as we waited and I still had to wake him up. The kid needs his sleep I guess.I LOVE this picture. I don't get to see this everyday. In fact I don't think I've ever seen them do this. I remember laying in my sisters lap like this as a child but I guess because they are boys they show affection and kindness in other, mostly aggressive ways. I'm so glad I captured it.

Chapter 2: The plane has landed!

Wake up Kelland!! Daddy's plane is coming!Brigham says "Daddy plane Mom!!""Daddy! Daddy!"He actually got down from my arms and ran towards the plane. I had to chase after him and he wasn't happy about it. Pretty confusing for a little one with no Patience.

Chapter 3: The Anticipation

We had to wait for customs to go in and check everything before they gave us the "go ahead" to start walking down towards the plane. So more waiting. And as they started stepping off the plane, it was person after person and they all started to look the same.

In this picture you can just see how anxious they are looking for their father.

And then out of nowhere he pops out of the crowd with a huge smile on his face. Oh! how I missed seeing that face!

Chapter 4: Reunited!

Layton and Jaren saw him first and ran to him for his embrace. He didn't even have time to put his stuff down. When Don saw this picture He cried. He missed them so much."DADDY!""Is it really you?""It is you!"Finally my turn. How I longed for this moment.

Chapter 5: updating Daddy

"Look! Daddy plane"Jaren seemed to have more to say then usual. He was very excited!And Layton being funny and updating him on all his football glories.Jaren showing his dad his wiggly front teeth.One more longing embrace.Chapter 6: Ready to go home!

Let's go home Daddy!Thank you Megan!

Epilogue

What a magical day! As Megan was taking pictures of us she happened to capture another reunion. I thought this was to sweet not to post! That little boy is so precious with his eager run towards his dad. This day was filled with moments like this. Later when we were waiting for the luggage to arrive I witnessed an Airman pick up his loved one and swing her around in a bear hug. I saw a father throwing his child up in the air with joy on his face and the boys laughter filling the air. And I watched as one more kiss just wasn't enough before leaving to grab his bags. I loved being there and seeing all the happy faces around me. It was truly magical..........A moment I'll never forget.