Living in a Military Community

Nate and I moved down to NC almost seven years ago. We immediately fell in love with our town. I love being close to the water and being able to go to the ocean as often as I want. I also really enjoy the small town. There are so many local events and great little stores. I am maybe one of the only people who doesn't want a Target or other big businesses to come here. For years I have gently and not so gently suggested to our friends up north to join us down here. We haven't had any success yet. Most of our friends claim it would be way too hard to live away from family.

It is hard to only see our family a few times a year. The reason we have stayed is because of the people here. In almost all of our circles of friends we are the token civilians. I couldn't ask for a better place to be. When Nate is away on trips or working late there is always someone else whose husband is away that I can have over for dinner so we aren't alone. I rarely have to pay for a babysitter because there are so many people who are glad to watch my kids. There is so much strength in these families and I am so grateful to have them in my life. 

The hard thing is the constant good-byes. It never gets easier to watch people we love move away. I ache as I watch my kids cry for the friends that aren't here anymore. It's hard, but so worth it, even if it is for such a short time. 

Last week we said good bye to some great friends. Asher misses his buddy Jack. I am so glad we had them here for four years.