Thursday, February 21, 2008

Treasured Moments

The time is here to say goodbye to my wonderful wife and son. I will miss them both. Kara, is a great wife. Her unwavering support makes me strong, and she is already proving to be a great mommy to our little gift from God, Clayton. I love holding Clayton. I can't believe how much love you can have for a little guy you have only known for approx. four weeks. I guess only a Dad could understand. On Saturday I will say goodbye again. This time it will be for a nine month tour to Afghanistan. When I look at the face of my little, baby boy, I am strengthened in my resolve to stand for freedom. I want my boy to continue to grow up in a land where he can worship, and live as he sees fit, without fear of punishment from the powers that be. I also know that he isn't the only little boy that deserves to live in freedom. So if I can be a part of bringing hope to people who are oppressed by those who would also threaten my son's freedom if they get a chance, then I am ready to go. I love my wife, I love my son, and I will be looking forward to returning to them.
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12 comments:

Jon Plank said...

Really neat pic... brought a collective awwwww from the ladies in this household.

Brenda said...

That picture is awesome!!!!

Karalynne said...

I know you don't know me, but when I saw this post I just had to comment. I went to your brother's church in Beavertown for quite a while before I moved to MI. Anyway, my husband and I would just like to say thank you for your commitment to protecting our freedom. We can never thank our servicemen and women enough for all they have done and contine to do for us and our country! We will pray for you in Afghanistan as well as your family at home! Congratulations on your adorable baby boy!

Paul & Janice said...

Andy and family,
Enjoyed getting acquainted with your blog this morning and seeing all the precious picts. We certainly are "proud for you" as some of our friends would say. I am thankful for the sacrifice you have chosen to make. Men and soldiers of your caliber and commitment are a true rareity. May God bless and protect you and your family.
Paul

David and April said...

Couldn't have said it better! It's awesome what Andy is doing! I know we never see you guys anymore, but your never far from our thoughts and prayers! Especially at these difficult times. Andy, Be careful, we are praying for you, and Kara, if you need anything, let us know!!
~April

Nicole Cassady said...

God go with you...how comforting to know He can be with your little family back here at the same time. What a sweet and adorable baby! Did I spy a bit of reddish hair? :-) So happy for you all--looks like he's a keeper.
God's blessings on your family!

sharon said...

I wanted to thank you for your part in this country. I admire men that will leave thier families and protect me and my family as well as everyone elses. I also noticed that kara reads nicholas sparks. On goodreads.com they have a club and his biography is on the site as well. thank you again. :)

Chris said...

Hi, I know that you don't know me. We go to the Mahaffey GMC. My husband was in the ARMY. I just wanted to say God bless you all and God speed to Andy.

Doug and Kim Hoffman said...

This is an awesome picture! Did you take it or was it taken at the studio shoot? We'll be praying for you all. We admire your sacrifice.

Steve said...

A really great picture Andy. I have enjoyed looking at your blog today. Kara gave me the address last night at church. It will be great to be able to keep up with the events of your life via blog. You and your family are remembered in our prayers often. We are proud of you and appreciate your sacrifice. May you sense God close as you enter this next phase.
Steve

Andy Plank said...

Thank you all for your great comments. I can't thank you enough for your support.

Allana Martian said...

What a sweet, sweet photograph! God bless you as you serve our country!