A Year in the Life
MAY
Captain Jack Thornton of the Army National Guard Reserves stood in the living room of his condo, all dressed for his 2nd long deployment. This time around, he'd be gone about a year.
"All set?" His younger brother Tom asked, entering the room.
"Just about. What about you? Sure you can handle everything?"
"I'm subletting the condo. Not running a multi million dollar company or leading a group of soldiers into battle like you bro. I doubt it's going to be that hard," he laughed.
"Don't forget about Rip."
"Yes. Subletting and watching the world's laziest dog. I think I'll be just fine." Tom gave his brother a mischievous grin.
"Knock Knock!" Another male voice called out from the front door. "Great! I was worried I'd missed you guys."
"I would have waited, Jesse." Jack smiled at his middle brother. Jesse Flynn-Thornton was Tom and Jacks adopted brother.
Jack's family spent some time as a foster family when the boys were younger. As a police officer, their father had seen a need for good foster families in their area. God laid it on his and his wife Charlotte's heart to do something about that.
One day when Jack was in middle school, Jesse came to live with them and he never left. It was something which the whole Thornton family was very thankful for.
In his younger years Jesse was a handful, not unlike Tom, but he quickly made his way into all the Thornton hearts.
After their father passed away years later, the three boys stayed very close. It was just what Thomas Thornton would have wanted. It was that closeness that was making it hard on the brothers to say goodbye as Jack today.
After taking some time chatting and giving each of his brothers his "be good and don't do anything stupid while I'm gone" speech, Jack felt ready to leave. He took one more good look around the condo, giving Rip a good pet before he and his brothers left for the airport.
An hour and a half later they walked into the busy Boston Airport. Tom and Jesse stood back watching as their brother checked in for his flight. Jack wasn't the only Army Guardsmen deploying that day. The airport lobby was covered with men and women in green and their families, making the reality set in for both Tom and Jesse that they wouldn't see their big brother again for almost a year.
"I don't like this," Tom muttered to Jesse.
"Yeah me either. But you know Jack, he was always meant to serve his country." Tom gave an understanding nod. He may not like what was about to happen, but he was proud of his older brother and always would be.
"All checked in," Jack confirmed walking back.
"Alright then," Tom replied. "Mom just texted. She's parking and will be up here soon."
"Okay." The three just stood there staring at each other. Jack sensed a change in their moods that needed to be addressed. "What's up guys?"
"You're leaving," Tom blurted out. "I don't know, guess I'm worried about you."
"Don't be. I'll be back." Jack's voice full of confidence.
"You don't know that." Tom stood with his arms crossed, looking so much like he did when he was little.
"No, you're right, but I'm good at what I do."
Jack gave Jesse a quick "look after him" look, to which Jesse winked in acknowledgement.
"Jack!" The men turned around to see a young blonde woman running towards them. When she caught up, she practically jumped into Jack's arms.
"Oh look, Rosie's here." Jesse rolled his eyes. He couldn't figure out how his brothers annoying high school girlfriend and her husband were two of Jack's closest friends. But seemed to work somehow.
"Rosie! What are you doing here?" Jack chuckled.
"She woke up at the crack of dawn saying she just had to see you off." Rosie's husband Lee answered as he approached, pushing two tired little kids in a stroller. "Tom, Jesse, good to see you guys too."
"Lee." Both brothers smiled.
"This is ridiculous, but awesome. I'm glad I get to see you guys again before my flight," Jack said giving them each hugs.
A few moments later, Charlotte Thornton joined the little crowd. Jack look around and laughed, seeing so many people he cared about with him. It was a good feeling.
Having some time to kill, the crew headed towards one of the airport cafes for coffee and breakfast. But before they knew it, it was time for Jack to meet his men for departure.
"Well, it's that time." Jack looked mournful at his friends and family.
He hugged Tom first, who made him promise again to stay safe. Then Jesse, who ordered him to come home as soon as possible. Jack agreed to both.
"Remember, I love you guys. Stick together and hold each other accountable, okay?" His requests was met with a somber nod from both brothers. Ever since their dad died, Jack did the best he could to be a good example for them. He was of course still a goofy older brother who liked to mess around now and again, but more importantly he wanted to be a person they could look up to. What he didn't realize was he didn't need to try so hard. Both Tom and Jesse admired Jack and looked up to him completely.
Next a tearful Rosie and stoic Lee approach, giving Jack two big hugs. Jack even leaned down giving their little ones each a kiss and smile. "Be good for your mom and dad okay? Uncle Jack loves you."
"Oh Jack," Rosie gushed. "Don't you want one of your own someday?"
The hopeful smile on his face was unmistakable. "Someday, yes. I hope so anyway."
"I could always fix you up," she sang. "I know this great woman, she's a teacher and…"
"Rosie!" Jack interrupted with a laugh. Being set up was not something he was looking for. Especially now. "Let me get through this next year okay? Then maybe, maybe we'll talk about you setting me up."
"I for one wouldn't mind some grandkids before I die," Charlotte piped in with a grin.
Jack rebuked his Charlotte with a matching grin. "Mom, you're young and fit. Relax."
"There's that sass." She shook her finger.
"Don't worry Mom, maybe one of us could give you grandkids," Jesse teased gesturing between himself and Tom.
"Woo now! Don't gesture at me! I am not going down that route any time soon!" Tom responded adamantly.
Charlotte shook her head with a smile. She loved her boys, all of them. She turned her focus back to Jack, already missing him. "I love you, son. Stay safe. Write me okay?"
"I will, I love you."
She let out a sigh. "Your father would be so proud of you. All of you!" She reached out pulling her sons in for a long hug. Saying a prayer that this wouldn't be the last time they'd all be together.
A moment later, Jack left to head to his checkpoint. Taking one final look back to wave at his friends and family.
"My life's in your hands God," he prayed. "Stay with me."
JULY
(Over in Iraq)
Jack had been in Iraq for just over a month now. He'd settled in quickly with the men and was mostly enjoying himself. He loved his job and the ability it gave him to travel, serve and meet new people. But something seemed to be missing.
To pass the time, he sat in the morale tent reading the latest book his mom had sent.
"Captain Thornton?"
"Yes sir." Jack stood to salute his commanding officer.
"At ease." The senior officer smiled. "Wondered if I might have a word with you."
Jack nodded.
"You're aware that we have a program where we pair up soldiers with grade school classes back home? Kind of a penpal situation?"
"Yes sir, I'm aware."
"Great. I've been given this information. A teacher from a school back home is looking to do this with her class in the fall, and you're one of the men that came to mind."
"Me sir?"
"If you're not up for it pass it along. I just know you're great with kids."
"Oh, yes sir. I guess I could consider it." He took the envelope.
Later that night Jack sat in his bunk staring at the ceiling. The days in the desert seemed to be getting longer and harder with each passing week. Even so, he knew he had it easier than some. He didn't leave a wife or kids at home like a number of the men did. He couldn't imagine what that would be like. Jack did wonder what it would be like to have a love to write home to though. Someone to dream about after a long hard day. Sure he had family and friends but it wasn't the same.
He rolled over, picking up the envelope his CO gave him earlier, pulling out the paperwork inside. Most of the papers were the guards penpal program forms but clipped to the front was a handwritten letter.
"Dear Soldier,
First, I'd like to thank you for your service. Sacrificing time away from your loved ones and life for those of us at home is truly noble work.
My name is Elizabeth Thatcher and I am a 5th grade teacher at Hope Valley Middle School in Massachusetts. More and more kids these days seem to not understand the importance of what it is you and your fellow servicemen do. I've wondered if it's because they don't have a face or name to put with it. I'd like to change that. With the Guards large presence in our community here, I'd really like to help my students understand better who you all are.
If you are willing, I'd love to have you as a penpal for my class this fall. I'm happy to work within whatever schedule or parameters work best for you.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Thatcher
He placed the papers back in the envelope before laying his head down again. The more he thought about it, maybe being a penpal for a group of kids could be fun. It'd help give him something else to think of while in this messy sandbox of a place.
(Back in Hope Valley Mass.)
Elizabeth Thatcher woke up when her alarm annoyingly went off at 6am, as it did most mornings.
After beating her alarm into submission, she dragged herself out of bed and down the stairs towards the coffee. Coffee was like her lifeline these days.
At 6:30, as predictable as cold in winter, she heard the patter of little feet running down the hall then carefully moving down the stairs towards her.
"Good morning, sweetie."
"Hi Mommy." Elizabeth's 4 year old daughter climbed up onto the breakfast bar stool. "We eat yogurt for breakfast?"
"May we have yogurt?" Elizabeth smiled.
"May we have yogurt, Mommy?"
"Yes. Strawberries sound good with it?"
"Yes please!"
Mya was a beautiful little girl. The whole family thought she looked just like Elizabeth at that age. She had her mother's sweet yet sassy temperament as well.
Elizabeth placed a small bowl of yogurt and strawberries down in front of her daughter just as a little voice began calling out from upstairs. She smiled and headed up to the room of her handsome little boy.
"There's my big boy! Come here Asher." She lifted the smiley 18 month old from his crib and placed him on her hip.
Asher was such a happy, hyper little boy. He looked a lot like his grandpa William did at his age. Little Asher did have his father's smile though. At this point, Elizabeth hoped that was all he got from that side of the family.
She tried her best not to be bitter or angry. It wouldn't do any good. Especially now. It had been a little over two years since she and Charles had their life changing conversation.
Charles had been away in London for another two week long span on business. Things between them had been rough at best for the past year or so. With each passing trip he seemed to grow more and more distant. She wasn't giving up though.
Then that night he came home and everything changed. Charles announced he had been offered a prestigious job at the firm he'd be working alongside in London. Before Elizabeth could say anything, he dropped the next bomb.
He'd met someone. The two of them wanted to make a go of it.
"I don't want to make this difficult. Just a clean break," he'd said.
A clean break? What sort of clean break could they possibly have? They were a family. Or at least they were supposed to be.
Elizabeth changed Asher's diaper and took him down for breakfast, placing him in his high chair.
"Ok little man, what would you like for breakfast?"
"Sissy yogurt berries!" he said excited.
"Is that what you want too?"
Asher made the ASL sign for please.
Elizabeth handed him his breakfast and leaned back against the counter. She smiled at her kids, they were a true blessing. Her lights in the darkest days.
(Back in Iraq)
Jack was coming back to his forward operating base after an exhausting patrol. Most of his men went straight to the morale tent to email their families. Jack went to his bunk, hoping for a little shut eye.
Sleep wasn't coming easy however. He was unable to switch his focus off from the mission and all that they were seeing. As he laid there he remembered something his boss back at the police department in Hope Valley had said.
"Find your north star, the happy place that will help guide and comfort you on the hard days."
When Jack first heard Chief Avery's words Jack knew his north star was the Lord above. Knowing his faith would help him through the tough times. But right now he was wondering if there was more to it. Maybe something else God wanted to guide him towards.
He closed his eyes again trying to let his mind go blank. When finally all the chaos of the day seemed to dissipate, he suddenly remembered the envelope his CO gave him a little while back. Maybe this is it, he thought. He grabbed the envelope and went to the morale tent to send an email.
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Sun, July 10, 2016 at 11:53 PM
"Ms. Thatcher,
I'm Captain Jarrick Thornton of the United States Army National Guard. Thank you for the letter and interest in introducing your class to the servicemen in their community.
I am currently deployed to Iraq and my tour is expected to last just shy of a year. If you are still interested, I'd love to write to you and your class. I've never been a penpal before, but it sounds like fun. I know it's summer now, but if you'd like we can talk and get an idea of what you'd like for the kids.
Sincerely,
Captain Jarrick Thornton
"There we go. Sent." Jack stared at the message as he sat back in his chair. He took a few minutes to check his email and write home before going back to his bunk.
(Back in the states)
Elizabeth was sitting in her empty classroom getting ready for the new year. Its bare walls were a bit intimidating, yet exciting. The beginning of every year was like a fresh start. Especially for her students. They'd be starting a new year in a new school. She wanted things to be perfect.
Taking a break from decorating, she picked up her phone to respond to some emails. Scrolling through she noticed one from a Captain Thornton and smiled. She was really hoping to start the penpal project in the fall and had a good feeling about his email.
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Tues, July 12, 2016 at 2:30 PM
Dear Captain Thornton,
Thank you for your response! I'm so excited for this. My thought was for the kids to each take turns writing letters to you, asking questions and telling you about their life at home. If you don't mind, I'd like them to each physically write letters instead of always emailing. I feel like letter writing is a dying art. I probably sound like a 70 year old woman, instead of a 27 y/o woman but I can't help it!
Anyway, maybe we can start with a little bio? That way the kids can get an idea of who you are. I also thought maybe you could send us some pictures as well. I think the kids would love it. How does all that sound?
Ms. Thatcher
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Sat, July 16, 2016 at 5:13 AM
Ms. Thatcher,
Sounds like a great idea. I'm all for the letter writing. Maybe the kids will connect more with something tangible to hold on too.
I don't have a camera here, but I know people who do. We can make the picture idea happen.
I'll work on the bio soon and email it over.
Sincerely,
J
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Tues, July 19, 2016 at 3:30 PM
Jarrick,
Thank you! I'm really looking forward to this.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth
AUGUST
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Sat, Aug 6, 2016 at 10:15 AM
Elizabeth,
So I've been working on this bio. It turned out to be harder than I thought, hah. I tried to make it something the kids would find interesting and relate to. So here it goes...
My name is Jarrick Thornton, I'm a 28 year old Captain in the Army National Guard Reserve. My home base is Hope Valley Massachusetts and I am currently deployed to Iraq.
Being in the Reserves means I work 1 weekend a month, two weeks a year for the Army, and deploy when needed. When I'm not working for the Army I work for the Hope Valley police department as a police officer.
For fun I like to rock climb, play hockey, paint and hang out with my dog Rip. He's a basset hound who loves to sleep more than anything else, but he's a great friend.
I look forward to sharing more and getting to know all of you as the year goes on.
Okay, so how was that?
-J
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Tues, Aug 9, 2016 at 11:19 PM
Jarrick,
That was perfect! Can't wait to share it with the class in a few weeks.
If you don't mind me asking, how are you doing? Must be so hard being away. It's been what, 3 months?
-Elizabeth
It took a few days at times, but Jack would do his best to respond to Elizabeth's emails. Feeling very much at peace with his decision to be a penpal. He enjoyed having something to look forward to. Neither Jack or Elizabeth realized it at first, but they were becoming penpals themselves, as well as friends.
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Thurs, Aug 11, 2016 at 1:16 PM
Elizabeth,
Yup, just about 3 months. My mom's been counting down the days already. I tried telling her it would only make it worse, but you know moms.
Life here is going well. Only problem is it's dusty as all get out and I miss eating meals that aren't army issued. But really I can't complain. My unit is great, and I love my job.
How are you? How's Hope Valley?
-J
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Sat, Aug 13, 2016 at 6:17 AM
Jarrick,
Hope Valley is beautiful right now. Not showing many fall colors yet, but the change has certainly begun. Even this early.
Aw, your poor mom. I'm sure even with you being an adult it's hard. I have 2 kids and I imagine in some ways they'll always be little to me, heh.
My classroom is almost decorated for the new year! Lately I've been spending a lot of time setting up our classroom library. Currently, it's my favorite place. I even have a binder and little table all set up there for the penpal project. Any chance I can get a picture or two of you to start it off?
How are you? Get any decent meals yet?
-Elizabeth
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Mon, Aug 15, 2016 at 7:41 PM
Elizabeth,
I wish! I had a MRE yesterday while I was out on patrol labeled chicken teriyaki… I believe the teriyaki part. But it didn't taste like any chicken I'd ever eaten, lol.
I'm sad I'll miss Hope Valley in the fall. I love New England. Here it's just desert. Dry, hot and dusty.
You are right about my mom. I'll always be her little boy, even being the oldest of 3. So you have 2? That's exciting. Bet they keep you busy!
About the pictures, I've attached two. One of me and Rip and one a buddy took the other day here. How's that?
-J
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Tues, Aug 16, 2016 at 8:11 PM
That is the most adorable dog ever! His ears, I can't even! Hah. The pictures are great I bet the kids will love them. I see what you mean about the sand. In the picture from the other day you look completely covered in it!
My kids certainly do keep me on my toes. They're great. Both under 5 and have way more energy than I think I'll ever have again. I don't mind though. My 4 y/o's new favorite word is "probably". So she fits it into every sentence she can. Its hilarious right now. My other is just under 2 and is climbing EVERYTHING! I stepped out of the room for less than a minute, came back and he's up on the kitchen table dancing… It was so hard to keep a stern mom face on when he just looked so darn proud!
-Elizabeth
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Fri, Aug 19, 2016 at 2:06 AM
Rip is a great companion. Terrible running buddy though.
That's great about the kids! Hope your husband helps you out. My brothers and I were climbers. I'd say it gets easier, but there's always new things to climb. I totally get the keeping a stern face. Friends of mine have 2 kids about that age and I've been asked to leave the room several times because I can't keep a straight face. Can't help it!
How are you feeling about the new school year? My mom's been a teacher for 30 years. She always gets flustered this time of year.
-J
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Thurs, Aug 25, 2016 at 7:32 AM
Good question! I've been running around like a madwoman for the last few weeks but I'm now surprisingly calm. Everything seems to be in its place and ready. Now I just need the students! I have 22 this year, so that's exciting, and scary.
I have a friend that does that! Sends people out of the room. I've gotten sent out a time or two. Sometimes it's even funnier when you see your friends kids doing the same thing your kid does to you. Solidarity and all, lol.
Thanks for the tip on my little climbing monkey… guess I better brace myself :) and no, no husband. It's just me and the kids. It's okay though. I have a great support system (when I remember to use them).
-Elizabeth
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Fri, Aug 26, 2016 at 1:42 PM
I'm sorry about that. My mom spent a number of years as a single mom. I was more or less grown but not my brothers. I can only imagine how hard you must be working. She had a good support system as well, but she can be stubborn. I think it was hard for her to let people help. I get it.
I just got orders that I will be out of range for a bit, meaning away from communications. I should be back shortly after the start of the school term. Either way I'll message you when I get back.
Good luck on the first week back! Tell the kids I look forward to hearing from them.
-J
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Thurs, Aug 26, 2016 at 9:48 PM
I will :) Good luck out there. Stay safe Jarrick!
-Elizabeth
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Fri, Aug 26, 2016 at 5 PM
Always :)
-J
SEPTEMBER
Elizabeth walked into her classroom at 7:00 am after dropping off her kids at her sisters house. She moved around the room checking each desk and cubby making sure everything was all set. She loved the first day of school. Ever since she was a little kid. It was like a clean slate, full of new possibilities.
"Happy first day of school!" a cheery voice rang out from behind her.
"Rosie! What are you doing here?"
"Well I had a delivery to make. These are for you." Rosie handed Elizabeth vase of beautiful colorful flowers. "I thought they might brighten up the place for you."
"Well, thank you! They're lovely." She sniffed them then placed them on the corner of her desk. "What are you up to today?"
"Not too much. I'm heading down to the theater after this to catch up on some boring paperwork and then I'll see where the day takes me."
"Sounds… fun." she laughed, knowing her friends disdain for paperwork.
"Doesn't it though." She rolled her eyes. Rosie use to be an actress, and still was from time to time. Since settling down and having kids she took over running the local theater, running summer camps for kids and all sorts of fun activities. She loved it mostly, and it gave her the flexibility she wanted as a mom. No more traveling in shows and being away for months at a time.
"Lee and I wanted to have you and the kids over for dinner soon. Is there a night that works?"
"I can check. Maybe this weekend?"
"Perfect! Let me know which day!" She hugged Elizabeth, wishing her good luck and was off.
Elizabeth went back to her desk, smiling at the flowers she had been given. She knew she had a little bit of time left before the buses arrived so she decided to check her email. Much to her disappointment, she hadn't heard anything from Jarrick.
Her disappointment surprised her. She had grown to enjoy talking with him in the short time they'd been exchanging emails. Cared about him even. She hoped he was ok, wherever he was.
She looked up at the sound of movement and smiled as her new class began to walk in. Taking in all the decoration and work she had put into it. They seemed to appreciate it. She had spend an extra amount of time trying to make the classroom inviting, helpful and "cool". Knowing that these middle schoolers thought they were big stuff now, even though as 5th graders, they had gone from top of the elementary school, to bottom of the pecking order in middle school. Nevertheless, she wanted them to enjoy being there. So far it seemed that they were off to a good start.
After lunch she decided to introduce the penpal program. After gaining the children's attention she explained the project to them and read them Jarricks bio. The children's excitement grew instantly as they all started to think of what questions they would like to ask him.
A number of the girls giggled and made comments on how cute they thought he was in his pictures. Elizabeth would never say this aloud, but she wholeheartedly agreed. Her heart did this weird fluttering thing when she looked at them, or received an email. It was an unnerving feeling.
The first volunteer was Timmy. He grabbed the paper and envelope from Elizabeth and went to his seat to write. Getting many suggestions from his classmates as to what to ask.
(Over in Iraq)
Jack and his unit drove back to base late one afternoon. Jack was more than happy to be back. The home base seemed like a palace after all they'd just come through. He went to his bunk to drop off his stuff before heading to the showers. It had been over 2 weeks since he had contact with the world back home. After his shower he headed towards the computers. He had a lot of emails. Some from his mom and brothers, Lee and Rosie too. As he scrolled down a smile crept on his face when he noticed her name.
From: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
To: Jarrick D. Thornton
Date: Mon, Sept 5, 2016 at 8:22 PM
Hi Jarrick,
I know you're away and won't get this until later but I wanted to let you know I introduced you to the class and they are so excited! I sent you your first letter today. Maybe it will even be there when you get back.
Hope you're safe out there!
-Elizabeth
Jack quickly got up and went to check to see if any mail came in. He felt it may be a long shot. Mail took forever over there, but it was worth a try.
"Hey Mike, I get any mail when I was out?"
"Yes actually. Give me a sec." His friend Mike left to retrieve it. "Ah, here it is. Hope Valley Middle School care of Elizabeth Thatcher."
"Nice! Thanks Mike." Jack headed back to his room and read the letter.
"Dear Captain Thornton,
My name's Timmy and I'm in Ms. Thatcher's 5th grade class. Thanks for wanting to write us. I'm supposed to tell you about me and then I get to ask you questions. I live in Hope Valley Massachusetts. I have a mom, a dad and a sister. I like my parents. My sister's okay I guess. I like to play soccer and build models with my dad.
I have a lot of questions but Ms. Thatcher says we're only allowed to ask 3 at one time. So I guess I'll have to pick.
I like your dog. How old is he? Who takes care of him when you're away?
Did you choose to deploy or did they make you?
What's Iraq like?
Thanks again for writing us. This is cool!
Your friend,
Timmy"
Jack smiled at the letter. His CO had been right, Jack was going to enjoy this. He placed the letter in a safe spot and went back to the morale tent. He was excited to tell Elizabeth he had received the letter.
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Thur, Sept 15, 2016 at 4:09 PM
Elizabeth,
I'm back safely at my forward operating base and was really excited to have the first letter! I'll write Timmy back tonight.
Jack sat there for a minute trying to figure out if he should say what was on his mind. While away, he missed hearing from Elizabeth a lot. There was just something special about her, he could tell. He didn't want to say anything too forward. He knew he was suppose to be the classes penpal and didn't want to say anything stupid to her that would make that awkward.
He knew she didn't have a husband, but that didn't mean she was single. Yikes, he thought. This could get very complicated. What am I even thinking? I've got at least 7 months left here. Keep it to yourself Thornton, just be a friend. Yeah, let's just leave it at that. He shrugged it off and went back to the email.
How are you doing? How'd the school year start off?
The months on the calendar flew by and before they knew it, it was April. Eleven months had passed since Jack left on deployment.
Over the months Jack was gone, Elizabeth's class wrote him letters and emails, which Jack responded to as quickly as he could. They also sent him care packages full of pictures, notes, yummy treats and more.
He and Elizabeth also kept emailing and writing back and forth. Over the almost 9 or so months they were doing so, Jack felt as if he had grown to know her as a really good friend. But there was so much more he wanted to know about her. He only hoped when he returned that he might be given that chance. He carried a picture of her in his pocket. He found her beautiful no doubt, but there was something in her eyes that gave him a sense of peace.
Back in the states, Elizabeth looked forward to every email from Jarrick. Unsure about how he felt about her, and if he'd want to meet her when he returned she did her best to keep her emotions in check. A task that had become harder with each passing email. She couldn't help but feel like Jarrick was different. In their emailing, she had grown to know a lot about the kind of man he was by how he'd talk about the student, his family and how he'd ask about her.
Elizabeth wasn't looking for a relationship. The concept frightened her a bit after all she'd gone through. Having a new friend was nice though.
That night, after her children were snug in bed she picked up her phone to check her email. She was delighted to find she had one from him.
From: Jarrick D. Thornton
To: Elizabeth E. Thatcher
Date: Mon, April 15, 2016 at 4:09 PM
Elizabeth,
How are you? I hope the spring semester isn't getting to you too much.
I have some news. I just received new orders that my unit will finally be heading home in a week's time. I'm so excited I can barely sit still. Much like how you've described your little boy, lol.
Anyway, I was excited and wanted to share the news with you. See you soon!
-J
"He's coming home! I get to see him!" She said out loud. Her excitement was quickly replaced was an odd nervous feeling in her stomach. "Oh boy…"