I had the opportunity to see a Military Retirement today. I was surprised at my reaction to the whole event. Honestly, I thought it was going to be miserable because it was in the middle of the day when Isabel would be sleeping. I brought her along thinking she would behave and stay occupied. Which she did while the ceremony took place, but on the way there, man it was a fight.
I love that there is so much pride within our Military. Nothing can tear down or break the bond between a solider and freedom. It is amazing to witness such strength, when there is so much weakness.
The ceremony started out with a sailor singing the National Anthem while the colors of the flag were presented. From the first key to the last, this sailor was proud of what he was singing. It might have been the best National Anthem I have heard. Remarks and stories where told by the commander, a former officer, and others.
My most favorite part was the presentation of the flag to this individual. The flag was past down and saluted by 5 sailors in white gloves, all while the chief read the poem "Olde Glory" and the music "Oh Beautiful" was played in the background. Those that know me, know I am not an emotional person. I don't get choked up or cry at things normal "women" would. But at this moment I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes. Maybe it was the music, the poem, or the fact that our military is so dang awesome! It was emotional because of what our flag means and what our flag has gone through. It was almost spiritual even.
It wrapped up with the sailor requesting permission to go a shore. As they walked down the aisle in the middle of all the sailors, I thought about my father-in-law who recently retired from the military. Josh and I missed the his ceremony, but I have a greater appreciation for him and his family. Enduring 20 years plus is a great and noble deed for soldiers and their families.
After the ceremony Josh and I got to talking about his career. We are on and off the fence about making the military a permanent career. It is such a hard decision that we really can't make until we are actually faced with needing the answer.
One reason I really want to get out, is military hospitals. This is totally off topic of retirement, but for the past year we have been going to military doctors about infertility. In that year, I have only seen one many doctors twice. We are tossed around from doctor to doctor, who we have to explain our situation each time. It is frustrating when I can't count on a regular doctor. Plus we have to drive an hour and a half just to get there!
The latest is this: we are on round three of IUI treatments. I had the last round this week. I am trying not to get my hopes up again. I might be taking a break after this last time. It is a dent in our budget, a pounding on my relationships, and leaving me feeling hopeless. So, I think a good break will help. I am grateful for our one miracle we do have. I will continue eating sushi, drinking pepsi, and riding my bike!
