The L Family

I'm going to speak honestly today.  I've never really understood.  I never really got it.  See, I have family, friends, and former students that are in the military or have a loved one in the military.  I've always felt bad for them - saying good-bye to loved ones, wondering when they'll hear from them next, worrying.  Sympathetic?  Of course I was.  But I never really GOT it.

Enter the L family.

There was something about the way Dad held his little girl while she cried, or hugged his son while they waited.  It was the look his wife gave him when he wasn't looking - eyes full of love with that hint of sadness.  After weeks (months) of working on getting a family session booked, we finally had good weather and a day that worked.  Sadly, it was the last Sunday before Dad was deployed.  I'm so glad I was able to take this family's portraits.  I'm so glad I was able to witness the love between a family torn between enjoying every last moment together and the sadness of having to say good-bye.

And even after I hopped in my car, I still didn't quite get it.

And then the editing started.  It was the little things I saw that choked me up.  The look of his daughter as he held her hand.

How long until she gets to hold her daddy's hand again?

It was the pride of his son as he snuggled up with his dad while we waited for his mom and sister.

Now this little boy is the man of the house until Daddy comes home.

And after letting the kids run off, I suggested getting a quick photo of Mom and Dad.  Without even telling them, the held hands.  Seriously?  (Have I ever mentioned how much I love love?)

I get it.  Thank you so much to our military and their families for the HUGE sacrifices you make for defending a thankless country.  Thank you for giving away time, moments, and memories you'll never get back.  Thank you, L family, for opening my eyes a little more.  God bless.