A Mother's Joy!

Isn't this picture wonderful? Such joy on John's face - finally hugging his family after a long year at war! I can hardly express the feeling I had as Elina, Misha and I, together with Rondi and Karis, strained to see our son enter the gymnasium at Fort Irwin late on the night of January 5th. Memories of John throughout his life with us came crashing to my mind, begging to be remembered! It's a mother's joy to see this kind of happiness on his face. After-all, does it get any better than this?

John, Rondi and Karis are off to Georgia for his captains course. It's a five month course for final preparation to command his own Army unit. We are not sure where he will be stationed after the course, but at least the family is together during his time at school. Brad and Stephanie are there too. Even though Brad is a couple months ahead of John at the course, they will all have a few months together before parting ways once again.

I wouldn't have missed seeing this in person for all the world! It is good, however, to be home in Japan now with Phil. He wasn't able to be at Ft. Irwin for Johnny's return, due to his incredibly busy work schedule ... and he was sorely missed. But, we have wonderful pictures to share.

John and Rondi must be commended for the incredible job of maintaining a flourishing relationship while apart.

Karis and Daddy know each other, because of things like her "daddy video" where she can see and hear him reading books to her. And also from her "daddy bear" John had especially made for her with his own recorded voice telling Karis how special she is to him and mommy.

Phil and I are so very proud!

Let them both know how proud of them you are as well, by posting a message on this blog for them to read.

Please post messages here for John and Rondi. That way they won't be bombarded with email, but can read them at their leisure. There will be many days, as they transition, where access to a computer may not be convenient.