So I went to the ALCOA clubhouse last night convinced that I was attending a surprise birthday for my sister-in-law, Amy. It was pretty believable; Amy's birthday was on Monday and Mike's family has a lot of parties at the clubhouse. I had no reason to be suspicious.

In actuality, my husband and our parents had been planning a surprise going-away party for me since just after I received my orders. As I walked in, I was shocked to see not just my family, but members of our church and other friends piling out of the closet. Two of my friends drove 2 1/2 hours for this. Over 100 people attended. There was a beautiful cake with the Army symbol on it, and Mike and my mother had collaborated on a photo table. It was absolutely amazing.

I am consistently overwhelmed by the love and support I receive daily from the people closest to me. Daily, I thank God for all His blessings, because I am well aware of them, but something like this drives it home even more. I have the most wonderful family and friends in the world...