Midtour leave: reality vs. expectations

Midtour leave is a beautiful and rare thing these days. Service members have to have a tour of at least 9 months to even qualify for two weeks off. Mac chose to take his leaves more than halfway into his tours to minimize the amount of time he has to spend back in Afghan-land.

Expectation: Your first night together will be full of passion and amazing sex.
Reality: Your beloved will pass out shortly after showering and eating.

Expectation: Your days are filled with fun activities, trips to new places, and meals at that restaurant you’ve always wanted to try.
Reality: Your days are planned with a nap and early bedtime in mind.

Expectation: You won’t even notice the calendar.
Reality: You’ll wonder how two weeks goes by so quickly when he’s home.

Expectation: You’ll do everything you spent the months leading up to leave talking about and planning.
Reality: You’ll savor every moment and just enjoy being together.

What were your experiences with mid-tour leave?