8 Years Ago Today...

...the love of my life officially signed up for the U.S. Army and was awaiting his official swearing-in a few days afterward.  On this day 8 years ago, he wrote to me:

"It's strange to think that in two days I'll be signing the documents that will determine the course of my life.  When I swear in, I'll be promising to spend the next four years of my life in complete misery, thousands of miles away from the one I love.  Though at the same time, this is going to [be] very exciting.  Assuming I make it through the training, I will be a witness to, and an active participant in history."

Eight years later, Rob, your enlistment has officially ended.  Though we have lived together Army-free for three years now, this nevertheless feels like a milestone that should be recognized.

You, my darling husband, gave up your freedom and risked your own life for four years to serve your country.  You willingly challenged yourself to your limit, physically, emotionally, and mentally, and always came out on top. There are not many that can say the same. Words cannot express the pride I have for you and for your accomplishments these last 8 years.  Though I am, as you know, quite happy to be rid of the Army for good, I would gladly go through it all again with you in a second.  I feel privileged to have watched you grow and change from the boy I fell in love with into the amazing, strong, intelligent, and witty man that I continue to fall in love with every day.

I love you, Rob, and congratulations on moving forward into this next chapter of your life and our life together.  Some days I don't know why you've chosen to let me be a part of it, but I'm damn glad you did.