Sunday, December 20, 2009

Philadelphia Freedom

J had an unexpected vacay in Philadelphia this weekend. From the base in New Jersey, he and his new BFF and traveling buddy, an Army officer also headed home to Seattle, were supposed to fly out of Philly, into Chicago, and then out to Seattle.

Blizzard 2009 had other plans. They spent the night in Philadelphia.

They were re-booked for an early morning flight that was, you guessed it--cancelled. They were put on "standy-by" for an afternoon flight. I cannot begin to express the amount of frustration involved in having your returning soldier so close yet so far away. Talk about a roller coaster ride. I've been believing all along that God is in control--always has been, always will be. Knowing that with my whole, whole heart has made this process easier to bear.

But it also doesn't hurt to have connections.

J contacted his handler with the White House Communications Agency in D.C. to explain his dilemma. They are expecting him to report for duty early next year. My ever-enterprising husband requested Air Force One. Instead, he got a confirmed seat on the next flight out today and a First Class upgrade.

Alas, he also looked out for his new BFF. He is confirmed for the flight, as well. But the soldier, who happens to outrank J, will be flying coach.

And they just boarded... :)

6 comments:

Christy said...

Sooooooo glad to hear that he's on the way home to you and your babies now! I hope he picked up some Eagles gear for Miss Savannah while he was here. ;-p

Hopefully, next time he's in Philadelphia, he'll do it the right way -- with you, the kiddos AND the Tobins!

Jamie said...

Oh I am so happy to hear he is on his final leg home!!!! What wonderful news to hear the week of Christmas - reminds of us the truly important things.

James, welcome home! Thank you again for all that you do for the rest of us!

Michele said...

GO, J!!! Give the man what he wants...TO BE HOME!

So sorry about all the hurdles in his getting home, but SOOO glad that he will be there soon. "I'll be home for Christmas...".

We have J and his counterparts to thank for what they do, and we have you (and the kids) and your counterparts to thank for lending him to the entire USA.

Anonymous said...

I'm guessing J is home now? I bet that is the best Christmas present you've ever gotten!

Bethann said...

Wonderful news !!! And if I haven't said this before...please thank him (for me) for his service. :)

Jo said...

Welcome home, J, and thank you for your service to this country. What a great Christmas present for you all. You must all be so excited! Take care and have a great holiday.