Saying Aloha to Hawaii

Mr. L and I have finally (finally!) received a definitive answer regarding his current medical situation.  As some of you may have read in my last post on this topic, Mr. L had begun his medical evaluation board process back over the summer.  That involved a lot of paperwork, some medical tests, and a good dose of patience.  We were fortunate that his packet actually came back VERY quickly and also with some wonderful news that he'll be medically retired by the end of the year.

Beautiful Sunset Beach

A year ago, medical retirement/medical separation was the very last thing we wanted.  We were doing everything in our power to diagnose his illness and get it fixed.  But sadly, chronic illness doesn't work that way and we've had to roll with the punches.  There was an option for him to cross rate (change his job) to stay in the Navy, but Mr. L wanted that even less than separation.  So we took our chances and are very happy to say at least this turned out in our favor.

Friday Night Fireworks on Waikiki Beach

I guess the big question on our minds is what now?  Basically, we are pretty much in the dark.  We know that we will be moving home to Alabama, but we have no idea what's in store for us after that.  Mr. L and I are both updating our resumes and he is actively working connections to secure some type of employment, but we're worried about how it'll work out for us.  There are a lot of things we want and don't want in our life together and we'll just have to pray that the pieces fall together somehow.

Gorgeous Lanikai Beach

On top of that, we'll now have to deal with two complete lifestyle changes.  After 11 years of dedicated service, Mr. L will have to answer the question, "Who am I without the military?"  The military can be such a hassle, but it really has provided him with not only security, but wonderful opportunities throughout his adult life that I don't think he could have achieved any other way.  Losing that part of his identity will be a huge blow, but I do have faith that he'll find something equally as important to him and throw his energy and passion into that.

Kaneohe waterfalls on a stormy day

The second lifestyle change will be saying goodbye to Hawaii.  We've known from the beginning that we would never be settling here as a family, but Hawaii is a unique and lovely place that will always hold a special place in our hearts.  We've spent the majority of our marriage here, made some incredible friends, and have seen beauty we could never have imagined while growing up in Alabama.  This period of our lives was an absolute blessing to experience and I'm so thankful for that opportunity.  And let me tell you, I am sure going to miss the food here!  Haha.

The Blue Angels performing on Hickam Air Force Base

We're still working out the final details, but for now, we will be soaking up every last bit of sun, beach, mountains, food, and friends while we still can, and then it will be back to the "real world" for us.  Feel free to send lots of good thoughts and prayers our way!  :)