under-fire

Two weeks ago, I attended the premiere for the documentary Sisters in Arms, about women in combat roles within the forces. I was asked to be part of a discussion panel after the premiere and given a chance to speak my opinion on where we stand as women and as a military.

Mark and I were talking the other day about losing our friends in Afghanistan, and how difficult it is to watch their young faces appear on the news, their lives cut too short by war. Soon, we got to talking about repatriation ceremonies.

With Mark returning home, it has been the most wonderful Christmas present. But at the same time, it's created a tense atmosphere as he adjusts to being home and we adjust to accommodating each other once more.

As I finish the last of my medical release paperwork, I'm reflecting on my relationship with my Dad and the job that has brought us closer together.

People are often excited to hear that I'm in the military, that is, until I actually tell them what they do. Then, they look bored.