After what felt like an eternity, the moment we've all been waiting for is finally here - James is HOME! Our dog daddy, adventure partner, and steady rock through every high and low has finally wrapped up a long and eventful deployment. The tail wags have been nonstop, the kisses slobbery, and the welcome-home cuddles - nothing short of magical.
Deployments are never easy, but this one stretched a little longer than planned with a couple of extensions. James missed all of our birthdays this deployment. Rocky turned ONE in September, Oz turned SEVEN in May, James's birthday was in October, and my birthday was in May as well. But we are making up for all of it, and then some, this month. We're kicking off this homecoming chapter with gratitude, love, and an extra treat for the pups!
Our first plan...daily walks on the beach. There's nothing quite like the sound of waves crashing and sand between your toes - and paws - to reset and reconnect. It's something we thought about constantly during our days/nights apart these past 8.5 months - 252 days to be exact. The dogs absolutely lose their minds for the beach and James couldn't wait to get back to his leash duty with the boys. Seeing them together again, strolling like no time has passed, is everything.
Next up: celebratory dinners. Since James missed both his and my birthday we are doing a belated birthday extravaganza. That means multiple nights out (or in) with our favorite meals, shared desserts, and laughter!
James also has a special trip planned - he's flying out later this month to visit his son, who recently joined the Navy with the Submarine Community. This will be the first time they will be together in uniform and all during Father's Day Weekend...making it all the more special. They plan to visit the USS Constitution in Boston and a Submarine in Connecticut. It will be an emotional and exciting trip for both of them.
We've also set aside some unplugged time this month to simply be together. No big agenda, no back-to-back obligations - just sunrise views, long evening walks on the beach, slow mornings with coffee and stories, and lots of cuddles with the puppies. This season of homecoming is more than unpacking bags. It's about healing, reconnecting, and honoring the strength it took to get here - as individuals, as a couple, and as a little family that includes four paws and a big heart.
As part of our celebration, we would like to share it with you all too. Head on over to our shop here and enjoy 20% off your purchase of any 3 or more items. Just enter HOMECOMING code at checkout.
