I've got my friends....

"I've got my friends, Sir, I'm perfectly content to have you as my enemy" ~ The Unit

I woke up on this 4th of July pretty late, but luckily the kids were playing quietly and laughing together. I love how they are best friends, they will always have each other, just as I will always have my big brother, no matter the distance between us.

I got a call from Iraq last night, something I always value, from one of my Soldiers, a Cav Scout. We talked about almost everything, including our mutual displeasure for idiots and people that screw us over. He is a good guy, a true soldier, and one that I am extremely proud to call my friend. I am always grateful when I get a call, no matter what time, no matter if I am woken by the call or not. It makes me feel sort of special that they would think to call me, of all people. Friends mean more to me than any of my exes ever did. Especially when they serve so proudly and wear that uniform, not just out of duty, but because they appreicate it.

Only 2 defining forces have ever agreed to die for you. 1 is Jesus Christ the second is the American Soldier.... one died for your soul, the others will die for your freedom...

It is Independence Day, another one far from home, no fireworks, no red-white-and-blue flying high in the sky. I am grateful that it is my last one in this country, not that I am ashamed of Canada, simply that I am tired of being here. There's a whole cultural difference between American Military and Canadian Civilian. I am exhausted with attempting to be someone I am not. It's time to make my way back home, into the world I knew. I am anxious to get everything completed. I am anxious to be back around my own kind.

I keep hoping the sun will shine today, so the kids and I can go for a picnic but it seems that may be something that I'll have to miss. It's a shame but not something I can control. Oh well, we have already had a bunch of fun this morning and in a bit, we will be painting. :) Fun!

Anyways, I have to go, I'm busy and just wanted to gush about my call... and about my last Independence Day in Canada for a long, long, long time, if not ever. (I'm hopin ever)

Thank a soldier/marine/airman/sailor for all they do for you.

Love, Leah...