Thank You Police Officers

I missed National Police Week last week because I was ill, but I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of those brave men and women in blue who risk their lives every day so that we sleep safer at night. This includes my wonderful husband.

I am often asked what it is like being married to a police officer so I've complied a little list. It's definitely not all-inclusive, but here is what being a police wife is like for me.

• It’s falling in deeply love with the sound of Velcro because that means he is home safe and his vest and duty belt are coming off.
• It’s knowing that when other people are all running away from an incident, he and a select few brave men and women will be running toward it.
• It’s learning the proper way to fold and hang his uniform pants so the crease stays where it needs to be.
• It’s knowing that when we eat out, he will always sit where he can see most of the people in the restaurant and not have his back to the door.
• It’s checking and double checking that all of the ammo is out of your suitcases before you go on vacation.
• It’s knowing that even when you are on vacation, if someone is in trouble or someone needs help, he is on duty. He can flip the switch from ‘relaxed vacationer’ to ‘first responder’ in .2 seconds flat.
• It's saying a prayer every time someone posts on Facebook, “Does anyone know what’s happening at XYZ Street  and XYZ Street in Pasadena? Lots of cop cars...blah blah.”
• It’s turning on the news and searching the Internet frantically (while acting calm so the kids don’t see that you’re concerned) until you find out that what happened at XYZ Street  and XYZ Street in Pasadena and know that everyone is okay.
• It’s wanting to hear stories about his day and then cringing inside while he tells them.
• It’s scheduling holidays and birthday parties around his shift.
• It’s lots of long nights and silent prayers.
• It’s feeling safe...maybe to a fault...because I know as long as I’m with him, everything will be fine because he can handle any situation with ease.
• It's living with a constant admiration for him because I know I could never do what he does or see what he sees on a daily basis. I couldn't do it. It takes a very special person to be a police officer and I am in awe of all of those who choose to serve the public and are willing to risk their lives every day.

Thanks so much to all of those brave men and women who work tirelessly to keep our streets safe.

I know that being a police wife (or husband) is different for everyone, but these are some of mine. What are yours?