Stinkiss Originals

"Not so long ago, we brought you home from the hospital wrapped in your little blanket, counted your fingers and toes, thanked God for you and were amazed at how perfect you were. Our heart was no longer in our chests, but held in our arms. When you were a toddler, we protected you from bumps and bruises, held our breath as you took your first steps and your first falls. We knelt to tie your shoes, kiss away your pain or just to see the bright smile on your face. When you ventured out into the world on your bicycle, or the kindergarten bus we smiled brightly, hiding the tears and swallowing the lump in our throat, scared to let you out of our sight, and yet proud of your independence and bravery. We marvelled and bragged at your accomplishments as you grew into a young adult. We layed awake nights during your teen years, worrying about your safety, listening for the front door to creak open so we could sleep, knowing you were safe at home.

Now . . . the tables have been turned, sort of . . . our hearts are still not in our chests, but wrapped now in camo. We still smile brightly and try to mask the tears as you board the bus, or the plane, proud beyond belief at your bravery. We still brag to anyone who will listen that "My baby is serving our country". We tear up over the sight of a soldier who happens to cross our path, feeling the need to reach out to them, thank them, even hug them, and hoping somewhere in the world some other mom is hugging you, where ever you are today. We now kneel more often than ever to ask that you be watched over and protected, while you are watching over and protecting our freedom, that we might once again, hear the front door creak open, or the phone ring, so we can once again sleep, knowing you are safe."