Welcome Nikkie

Last week the "Wives" got together at Chili's to welcome little old me to "The Group". Stacy, who has been there for us since that first night at the airport, set it up. The initial email that went to "The Group" had many recipients but I wasn't sure how many of the ladies would be there. I mean, does anyone really care to meet the wife of the new guy in the office... well, Yes! I was pleasantly surprised to see the turnout and even more surprised, and impressed, that all the ladies knew each other. I mean they really knew each other. I sat there as they all filed in, giving each other hugs and asking about kids who were sick and parents who had come to visit. And as we sat and ate and I got to know them, I realized that I was now a part of a "community". A group of ladies who cared for each other by sharing information and resources, who watched each others children and supported one another during deployments. Ladies with different personalities and dispositions ranging from quiet and reserved to in-your-face hilarious, who in different circumstances probably wouldn't even be friends but here were like family. I though to myself that this was a nice group to be a part of.

Then it happened. Choking. Coughing. More choking. I knew Charlie was choking on her tortilla chips before I even looked at her. It was quiet for a split second, almost like everyone was making sure they were hearing what they thought they were hearing. Then, before I knew it the entire table was moving. Hands were flying everywhere. Things were shoved aside so we would have room to help CC or so they simply wouldn't be knocked over. It wasn't chaotic though, it was more like a well oiled machine. Before I could ask for it, a glass of water was in front of us. Then a stack of napkins. Charlie starts to throw up. I put my hand under her chin and crack a joke hoping that no one is too grossed out- We're all mothers here right?- Everyone laughs. The help keeps coming. A plate appears underneath my hand. Then more napkins. Teresa offers baby wipes. Then as quickly as it came, it's over. Charlie is okay. Everything is clean. I'm awed at how quickly everyone moved. Wow! THIS is what it's like hanging out with a bunch of moms! Yeah, a nice group to be a part of indeed.