A great vacation ends

The last two weeks have been without a doubt the best of my life. I was able to spend every moment with the people that I love so dearly. Memories of my father and godfather playing their guitars together, the small beach cabin with my family, amazing dinners with a girlfriend I adore, and of course a New Year’s Eve bash that still has my liver reeling. My only regret about my time home is that it passed by so damn quickly. I hope at the very least that my time home has reminded my family and friends just how much I love them.

A few hours ago I had to say goodbye and once again left my home. Right now I am really hurting, and I know that some of those closest to me are also. This is going to be hard. I’m having a tough time dealing with the idea that I’m going to be away from them all for so long. But I guess this needs to happen. I just want this whole adventure to end quickly, and in order for it to end, it has to begin. So let’s get started. If there is anything that lightens my heavy heart it is the knowledge that the countdown now begins. My job in Iraq will start pretty soon, and before you know it I’ll be back home and no one will have to worry anymore. I hate how much this all hurts and I resent how much pain it is causing my loved ones. I know that positives things will come of this (and some already have) but it is just so hard to see when all I can think about is missing them. Another regret is that I should have balled my eyes out with my girlfriend Meghan last night. She wanted me to, but I was trying to be strong and bit my lip and barely let more than a few tears fall. Now I find I have to bite my lip every moment to hold back. I promised my family, and Meghan that I would not hold anything in. I’m sorry, and I know not to do it again. This whole experience is going to be that much harder if I try and be a tough guy. Sorry Megs. I love you all and thank you for an amazing few weeks. They will never be forgotten. Take care.