Being a part of Project Sanctuary, I had the absolute pleasure in spending a few days in Estes Park with the Bruce family.

David Bruce had just returned from the Middle East the week prior. His wife had written Project Sanctuary weeks ago and asked for some help and support for their family.

Seems that this deployment had been a bit tougher than usual, marred with illnesses and financial problems, this family needed a break! And to top it off, the Bruce family had NEVER taken a trip or vacation in the 5 years they had been a family.

It was time that David, Michelle, Kaylee (4) and McKenna (2) enjoyed some family time!!

But what I can't stop thinking about is little McKenna and her questions. Like all three year olds she asks a lot of questions, and often the same ones, over and over.......... : )

Her favorite series of inquisitive questions usually began with"DaDa go Bye Bye?" to which her father, Dave would calmly and reassuring answer, "No Sweetie, DaDa's not going bye bye".

She would follow that one up with , "DaDa home?" Again, Dave would answer, "Yes, DaDa home'.

Then a huge grin would spread across her sweet little face, she would hug his leg and proclaim, "My DaDa!!"

I don't think most of us realize how difficult deployments can be, most of us are blessed to have our father's and dad's home with us. We take for-granted how precious that time with them really is.

Mom, Michelle has done an amazing job at making sure her girls stay in "contact" with dad, with the use of pictures, and videos. She even had his picture put on their pillows so that they sleep with "Dad" every night.

Still, the questions and uncertainties are there ... I even found myself asking about any future deployement and cringing when they answered, "probably January".

On the last night, we were all enjoying smores around the campfire (perfectly, chilly, Colorado evening).

David said that he needed to be honest with me, upon returning from the Middle East, spending 3 nights in a cabin without TV was not up there on his priority list. But his wife had insisted, and he had done it for his girls.

This retreat gave the Bruce's time away from cell phones, and everyday stress, time to create new and happy memories. They had a chance to get to know one another again, and a lot of time to answer those questions!

David said that his experience with Project Sanctuary had been just what they needed, and he couldn't wait to go tell other Military families what an awesome experience this was.

Thank you Bruce Family, and thank you to all the really awesome Military Moms and Dads who are making sacrifices that often go unnoticed. You all deserve our respect, support and acknowledgement.

Heather Maxey
Exectuive Director, Project Sanctuary