What it means to be a "Blue Family"

This month my Comments for a Cause donation is going to Iowa C.O.P.S.  This organization provides resources to surviving family members and affected co-workers of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.  After an accident that took place at the end of the last month, my heart wanted to do something to support the families affected, and the entire police family, which includes my brother-in-law and sister.  I asked my sister to write up some things she's learned about being a police or "blue" family and here are her reflections:

My Sister and Brother-in-Law
after he was sworn in at the Des Moines Police Department

It is hard to believe that my husband has been a police officer for nearly 4 years.  So much has changed since that day he was sworn in.  Being hired by the police department started him on a career that he can see himself doing until retirement.  Not only is his job his passion, but it also gave our family the stability we wanted before starting a family.  Since then we've had a son (now 18 months) and have another on the way.  Adjusting to this new lifestyle as a "police family" has had its challenges, but also its rewards, and I've learned many things along the way:

1. To be flexible.  Plans will be broken and holidays missed.  I've learned to expect that our schedule will always change.
2. The importance of a kiss good bye.  Always remember to say "I love you" before he heads to work.  It's easy to forget sometimes how dangerous his job can be, so making this a priority is important.
3. That the "cop" in my husband is always "on".  Whether we're driving to the grocery store or sitting in a restaurant, my husband is always thinking like a cop.  He is always aware of our surroundings and the people in them.
4. To believe.  Not only in the person behind the badge - but in the job itself.  Because it's not just their job, it's who they are.  Supporting them and their profession makes all the difference.
5. That this "blue family" truly is just that.  A family.  And that when times get tough we will all bind together.  Friends and strangers alike, we are all deeply connected through this profession.

Thanks again to my sister for be a guest writer for this post.  I am proud of both my brother-in-law and sister for their service.  Remember to comment all month long to support Iowa C.O.P.S. through my Comments for a Cause program!