Just some thoughts...

I've been realizing how much I think about the label 'Army Wife' and what it means. These are the words that come to my mind - Strong, Committed, Persevering, Patient...Risk taker. - I only hope I can be all of these things to Jeremy while we are on this journey.
     It seemed to me that I hear so many negative stories about being married in the army and never anything positive, until just the other night when Jeremy and I were spending a day in Duluth, MN. It was getting brisk out, while we walked along the pier in Canal Park, and so we decided to take some time to warm up inside the 'mini ship museum' that sits in the center of the park. We made our way up to the second level where we sat on a bench that was placed in front of a window, overlooking the bay.
    Shortly after sitting down, we were joined by an older couple (who had the same idea of warming up) and we got to talking... we talked about ships, weather, and all  the little things in life, most of which I don't recall, but then we got to talking about family and such. We then found out that they had been married for over three decades. And get this...eighteen years was while he was in the army! They told us about how they had lived in Germany for quite a few years because that is where he was stationed (which is a possibility for Jeremy as well). It gave me great relief to hear them continue with their stories about sticking together and not caring where they were, as long as they were together.
    I pray often that God gives me a patient and understanding heart towards the 'not-so-gradual' changes that come with living a military life. Along with patience and understanding, I am working hard towards having a positive attitude about everything that comes along side the challenges. I'm just finishing up a book by Gary Chapman called The Four Seasons of Marriage (two thumbs up) and Gary points out that no couples relationship is perfect, and that we all have our 'winter' seasons, but its not about whether you're ready for it or not, but it is about the attitude you have during that season or your relationship. So I am trying to prepare myself by seeking wisdom on what a positive attitude consists of and how to maintain it...as much as I can, but the real test will be when the situation actually arises. No harm in being 'somehwhat' prepared, right?...
     Overall, I'm looking forward to the strength and intimacy that Jeremy and I will gain as a couple when we make it through these trials, together, one by one.

James 1:2-6
     Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

Sincerely,
A. Quinn