My brother goes to Iraq.

This weekend--we surprised my brother Chris with a farewell party as he prepares to deploy to Iraq. He was shocked to see us there. 5 of us siblings were together. I teared up when Chris came in to the gathering. It was an emotional moment for all of us--including Chris himself. He is a veteran of Desert Storm & now he is going over again. We all pray for his safe return. Shannon & I had a great time at the party & stayed overnight in a motel nearby along with the other family members who were present. We decided it would be unwise to go the party & do the 3 hour trip back last night. Plus it gave us the opportunity to see Chris again this morning before heading back. So that was a nice bonus. We are exhausted--but very glad we could be there to give him the warm send-off which he deserves.