It was still dark outside as I looked out the window. Only the street lamp lit the dark corner where our house stood. I turned to look at my husband as he sat on the bed, lacing his boots. I can’t believe the day is really here. Tears began to form in my eyes no matter how hard I tried to stay strong. The words played over in my mind. “Stay strong for me baby, okay? I’ll be okay!” He said to me the night before.

For months now I knew he would be going overseas but I didn’t think the time would pass this quick. I watched him as he began to put on his uniform. Why does he have to go for so long? Other spouses were only going for 6 months, why does he have to go for a year? Asking myself this question didn’t matter. It wouldn’t make the time any shorter. He stood as he began to straighten his clothes, making sure his uniform was just right. He looked at me and noticed the tears beginning to run down my face.

“I… I love you!” I didn’t know what else to say.
“I love you to hun!” He hugged me and left.