Friday, June 15, 2012

keeping promises

Most of y'all that have been following my blog for even a few months know that I joined the military when I was eighteen. That was ten years ago this coming November. I initially signed up for a four year enlistment. At the time, my cousin Mercedes was eight years old, and naturally, really sad that I'd be leaving and only coming back to Texas for visits. But she (and I) thought I'd be home at the end of those first four years, so she wasn't worried about me ever missing her high school graduation. Well, the four years flew by, and not knowing where I wanted to go with my life at twenty-two years old, I signed up for four more years. I remember Mercedes, then twelve years old, being so bummed that I wouldn't be coming back like originally planned. In my second enlistment I met Mikey, who is now my husband. Together we decided to get out of the military after our enlistments had been fulfilled and go to college. Although, upon officially breaking my ties with the service, I didn't go back to Texas; I headed to New Jersey, where we currently reside. Getting older and realizing that my plans to permanently come back to Texas had likely changed, Mercedes thereafter only asked that I'd make it to her high school graduation. In fact, she had always made it clear that seeing her walk the stage was something I had to be present for. I repeatedly said I wouldn't miss it, but somewhere along the way, I'd honestly forgotten about my promise. It just so happened that on this trip, I flew in the day before Mercedes' graduation and I got to sit in the stands and shout (like a maniac) many congratulations to her. Even though it had slipped my memory to be there, I feel it was just meant to be. I'm the only one in our entire family who doesn't live in San Antonio, so it's always incredibly heartwarming for me to make it to events that my family gathers so joyously for. 
me, my sister & her awesome fiance
my nephew & my cousin
Mercedes, or "Mercy", as I call her
The pics I took of the rest of my family are blurry. Here are my uncles, aunts, cousin, & my mommy.
I had four slices of this cake. No shame. 

I hope y'all are enjoying this lovely Friday. Have a happy and beautiful weekend with the people you love! (I'll keep trying to post/read your blogs as I get internet service.) <3

20 comments:

  1. This is such a great story! I really enjoyed reading this :) Congratulations to her graduating!!

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    1. Aww, thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the post.

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  2. Such a cute post, dear!
    xx
    stylesplice.blogspot.com

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  3. Very sweet! Congrats to the cousin. =)

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  4. Roni you are so sweet, mercedes is very lucky to have you!! And i didn't remember about the fact that you have joined the military....
    You have an amzing family!!

    Don't Call Me Fashion Blogger
    Bloglovin'
    Facebook

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  5. I am glad you got to go to her graduation! So sweet!

    http://everydayrachel21.blogspot.com/

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  6. Aww, this is so sweet! Congratulations on her graduation :) ♥

    Sarah ^.^

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  7. aaaawww how sweet! I'm the only one in my family who doesnt live in Texas too (well besides my mom who moved up here a few years ago). Im so happy you were able to watch her walk across the stage. :)

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    1. Hey, we're twins! I didn't know all your family was in Texas, too. Geez, you and are seriously long lost bffs. ;) Thanks for the comment, Amber.

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  8. Ok.. so let me push the Kleenex aside and get the blurry eyes back to normal! How sweet and heartfelt is this!?!! It was meant to be for you to be present at such a momentous occasion! I am sure that having missed out on many a special occasion in her life growing up she really is happy that you got to be part of such an important moment in her life! I love the picture of the two of you together! And the family? Awe!!! Heck! Where'd I put that tissue!?!?
    You look like you have a very loving family! How wonderful!
    Must be lonely sometime being away from your family (with only hubby for company!) but being able to join them for events such as these makes up for lost time I think!
    I am truly happy for you and the memories you are creating on this trip!
    Love your cute turquoise polka dots! And yes, I like to have fun with color in my outfits although I do turn (in my hour of Mommyfunkness) to black and white a bit too much!
    By the way, also love how your twang comes through in your writing! (wink!) hahaha
    Thanks for all your lovely and sweet comments. They always make my day! As soon as I see your name I start smiling! Thank you!
    PS. Cake and shame don't go together! haha
    Have a happy Sunday my friend! Enjoy your amazing family!

    http://danaslookbook.blogspot.com/

    Dana

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    1. Haha, thank you for your always-so-thoughtful-and-sweet-comments, Dana. I absolutely love receiving a comment from you!
      It does get lonely being away from them since I was brought up in such a close knit family, but it feels so good when I come back for visits. At least I can see them more often than when I was in the military. You're very right in a lot that you said. :)
      I didn't realize I had a little twang, other than the fact that I say "y'all" a ton. Lol But that's awesome. I'll do a vlog as soon as I get back to Jersey. Then you'll get to hear my voice for real! :)
      Thanks again, Dana ♥

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  9. How sweet! It was truly meant to be :] I am so glad you are having such a good time with your family. Congrats to you cousin!!!! Also, that cake is so darn pretty. The photo frame is such a clever idea.

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    1. Thank you, Allison :) I thought the cake was so pretty to eat as well, but I guess not pretty enough for the way I tore through it. Lol

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  10. She is so beautiful. I hope you are having a blast with your family. What a sweet story! Congratulations to her. So glad you were there to support her!

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    1. I am having a wonderful time. Doing a lot most days and doing nothing at all others. It's amazing. :) Thanks for your comment, Violet.

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