I happened to take a few minutes today and look at the calendar. That's when it hit me, my husband will once again be heading to Iraq in a couple of weeks. It was definitely not something I wanted to think about at that moment but reality is that it's time to get into deployment mode.

So what does that mean? It means I have to start making lists of projects that need to be completed, verify that I have a current power of attorney, a copy of his orders, life insurance policies and emergency contact numbers for his unit. I have to make sure to give him recent photos of the kids, take lots of pictures with him and the girls, and hopefully get an updated family photo (that's because I'm a little paranoid about not having one if something ever happened - just another naroutic moment). IAnd it's time try to fit in a few more family activities, take a small trip and just enjoy the little time we have left.

But mostly, it's time for me to prepare myself for another good-bye. And that's always something I don't look forward too. Because no matter how long your husband will be gone or how many deployments he has been through, it never gets easier. It is never something you get used to. At least I don't.

On that same note, I don't want people to feel sorry for me or think that my life is somehow harder because of my husbands service because I don't. I know that he serves with pride and believes he is needed in Iraq. And because of that, I have the strength to take care of our family and wait for his safe return. When he leaves next month, I will once again say good-bye, have a good cry and pray for his safe return. (If that doesn't make me feel better, than I have a few margaritas with my friends - I'm sure that will do the trick.)