Update
I suppose, really, it's about time for a lot of things. Shana is really being exceptionally hard on herself about the misshapes of the trip.
If you didn't know, Shana had a massive infection in her right hand that was resistant to antibiotics. They had to take her to the CDC and use experimental stuff on her, one cocktail which made her nauseous, the other which she was allergic to. They were talking amputation for about three days. As an aspiring artiest, I would imagine only the loss of sight to be more devastating. So, all things considered, I don't mind we lost our emergency nest egg, because my wife still has both her hands. What did happen was this; it forced us to be reliant on the Army for funds, and as things often happen, the Army did not come through for us. I am still trying to think of a way to make her understand how much good Europe was for me, for US as a married couple. The peace and quiet, the beauty and adventure, the good food and rest, the time alone together... These things gave me a great sense of peace, a great time to think, just think on everything. If you're reading this and have any insight or suggestions, they are all welcomed. I'm basically trying to convince someone it wasn't their fault they got sick.
I've realized how much I miss my family. I missed everyone in Iraq, yes, but I didn't have much choice in that. Being away again, so soon after, without any of the stresses of the war have given me pause to think on my family and friends and adore them so much more. At the same time, I feel sick to my gut. I feel I haven't really given back as much as I received, and It's the number one thing on my return to the US new years resolution (I have a different list for the US and for Europe).
Though that's not all by any means, those are two really big things! I've become a slightly better person, and I realized how much I love everyone. Honestly? I'm going to end the post here and tag it.