Surprise- it's Daddy!

There was just one training that Brian was not able to fit in before he deployed... It is a 2 day defensive driving training, that happens to only be offered here in Virginia. Guess who was told he needed to come back to complete that training in August?!?! I couldn't believe it. The plan was that we would surmise the kids with his visit, of course. 

So on Tuesday night, the door bell rang. The kids went to the door and found a package from Brian, that told them to watch a video he had sent. In this video he explained he'd found a magic cauldron that could send things home to them quickly, hence the package they just found at the front door. All of a sudden, the doorbell rang again... I'd shut the blind, but on the way to the door Macy peeked out the window, looked at me a bit confused and said "It's Daddy." 

YIPPIE!!!!

We tried our best to squeeze in some summer fun over the 4 days that he was here. We started with a ropes course on Wednesday-

Thursday we took it a bit slower and just ventured around town together- 

 And hosted our bible study that night-

While Brian was home, both kids had their open houses, which took them to. It was great that he was able to see their classes, meet their teachers, etc.

Friday we headed out for some more fun together! Go carts-

Mini golf-

Arcade games and my favorite, this giant slide-

Friday I would also have to pop back into urgent care for this damn rash that was only getting worse... terrible timing. No more yard work without gloves EVER. 

Saturday came way too fast. Before Brian left, he had a tiny "honey-do-list" to tackle for me, and a new bicycle to buy for Tate. We were able to go to Saturday night church service, and grab dinner afterwards before bringing him to the airport. Sob sob.  

DONT GO!!!!!!!!!!! Sigh. This bonus visit was such a gift. We hated to see him go, but we were so grateful for the 4 days of summer fun we had as a family. Until next time... God speed babe.

Brian had a little bonus trip on his return back to Kuwait- he got to spend 14 hours in London!

He'd told his cousins he was coming through and they cleared there calendars and met him in the city to spend the day together. While he has seen them both individually over the years, this was a rare opportunity for the 3 of them to be together! 

The way I understood it, they spent the 14 hours eating and drinking at some fabulous places around London.

 The perfect ending to a little bonus vacation during a 1 year deployment for sure!