Let a sleeping dog lie
I know many wives of deployed soldiers read this blog so a word to the wise…DO NOT wake up your soldier after he has recently returned home from combat!
No matter where he falls asleep, keep him there. Let a sleeping dog lie.
On the second night Tim was home, he did exactly what Gage had requested for months…he fell asleep with him in his bed. So, before I called it a night, I turned the light on in the hall as I quietly walked in the room. I placed my hand on Tim’s shoulder as he was spooning Gage and said, “How is your little sleeping buddy?”
Tim slowly turned his head, his body tense (really tense), and looked at me as if he had no idea who I was. So, I repeated myself. He then turned his head toward Gage and looked as if he didn’t recognize him either. All the while I sensed his body getting even more in defense-mode. I realized he was completely disoriented. I repeated twice, “Tim, you are home.”
Within a minute he and I were walking out of the room. I didn’t want to say a word. He just said, “That was weird. I was totally back there.”
We are able to make light of the situation now but I learned an important lesson. Wherever he falls asleep he stays. Tim has indicated that the soldiers have their defenses up, with a heightened sense of awareness. I am well aware that it didn’t just go away once he landed on U.S. soil.
PLEASE NOTE:
Do not send any packages after March 1st to Tim, or the other soldiers he is deployed with. They will be leaving Iraq in April and expect him to be home in May!
It’s so good to see pictures of you all together at last!
Ann - February 19th, 2008 at 12:58 amGreat to see Tim state-side again and news on the May return. Enjoy your family vacation time together!
Ross Henderson - February 19th, 2008 at 9:50 amMy neighbor’s friend returned form Kosovo recently and the same thing can happen when he was awake. All of a sudden he did not know where they are, how they got there…We are so happy for your family to be together again. Take Care,
Sarah - February 19th, 2008 at 1:41 pmOh my! I always though Campbell looked like Tim and after seeing the two together - well Tim, she is your twin! You look great Tim and it I am happy to see your time at home!
hugs and kisses,
Suzanne Sutliff - February 20th, 2008 at 9:34 amOK guys, I am on Betsy’s computer. I have had the priviledge of seeing our soldier in the flesh. Move over Mark. Your brother has returned in “fine shape” and besides, he has a uniform. Have fun this weekend at the waterslides. Love to you all, Aunt Nine
Betsy Roeder - February 21st, 2008 at 9:20 pmYes, it may be a little “off” to say this about your cousins but Tim and Tiffany look like one smokin’ hot couple! It must be the stress-diet. Glad you’re home Tim. xoxo
Winden - February 22nd, 2008 at 7:08 am