Wow….where to start…??!! I guess I’ll give you a little background first. Lucas is my best friend’s baby brother. I’ve known him since he was 2 years old. I remember when I first met Miranda that Lucas LIVED for the movie the Jungle Book. Remember that Miranda? Fast forward LOTS of years. Lucas signed up for the National Guard. He’s stationed in Iraq right now. That’s probably the hardest and most bitter-sweet thing a family can go through. To be SO proud of that person for serving our country but at the same time feeling grieved because your loved one is going overseas. It’s never easy. Over the summer his family got a phone call. His mom got a phone call right before church. His military vehicle was hit. It was hit by an EFP. He was in a line with many military vehicles and his truck was targeted by the enemy. There were 4 men on board. God was with these men that day because what could have been or maybe even should have been the worst case scenario turned out for the good. The EFP hit the engine block directly and that alone stopped the weapon from going thru the truck further. The men were shaken but unharmed! I remember looking over at his mom during church after hearing the news and my heart sunk. It could’ve turned out sooo differently!! I guess it wasn’t until THAT moment that I realized exactly what every man and woman who serves our country lays out on the line EVERY SINGLE DAY!!! From that moment on my heart has been burdened for all who are stationed overseas and across the world. They quite possibly are the most selfless people alive. I feel like the very least we can do when we come across a soldier is thank them. They’re out there for you and I. They risk everything so we can sit at home and have freedom. So Lucas, from me to you…. THANK YOU little brother!!! I love you and we are praying for you!!
Patiently waiting………
Yeah, this is what Caleb thought of my taking pics!!! :P Little turkey
I’m not sure who this soldier is but he came in on the same flight as Lucas. Soldier, on behalf of my family, THANK YOU for doing what you do!!!!
Lucas greeting his godchild and nephew Caleb. He wasn’t so sure at first but he warmed right up and then didn’t want to let go!!
And so while Lucas has been in Iraq he had some people behind the scenes doing work on his truck. I think they put a lift kit, new tires and new rims. It was a total surprise to him
So after leaving the airport Lucas decided he wanted to surprise his neice at school and be the one to pick her up. I am so glad I was there to capture this because baby girl was TRULY surprised and elated!!!
Kylie was sooo excited it moved her to tears! I love you Bug!
Today was truly awesome. I love this part of my job. I LOVE capturing the happy times. I want everyone who visits and reads this blog to take 20 seconds and leave these soldiers some love because they TRULY put their life on the line for you and I!
God Bless!
Dawn
