As a teenage girl, you probably rely on your mom for a lot of things. You ask her pieces of advice about the changes you’re going through physically, mentally, and emotionally. She’s the one you share your secrets with and the person you ask for help when it comes to dressing up and socializing with others.

13-year-old Avarie Hinton had to rely on herself for 14 months.

Her mom, U.S Navy Lt. Tawnee Hinton, was deployed in Djibouti Africa for counterterrorism missions. She had to be away from her daughter and family to fulfill her duties to the country.

Because of her deployment, Tawnee missed out on a lot of things.

For one, she missed being with her kids as they opened presents last Christmas. Plus, she also missed Avarie’s choir concert last year.

This year, it was different for the family.

With luck, Tawnee was sent home in time for Christmas. Because her homecoming was special, the choir officials came up with a way to make her reunion with her family, particularly Avarie, a bit more special.

The officials got in touch with her.

They planned a private reunion. However, instead of a simple reunion, the group’s director felt that it would be more special if the moment was made as a part of the program.

Tawnee was assisted backstage, allowing her to watch the first half of the show from behind. After the choir finished the final ensemble piece, she slipped into the crowd.

A woman stepped up to the microphone and gave a small speech. Her message was all about the holiday tradition of celebrating with everyone at home.

Then, there was a hint about a reunion.

“It’s with great joy to have a reunion tonight with a family that’s been apart for a whole year. We have someone who’s been serving in Africa”, – the woman said.

Avarie became emotional.

As soon as the woman called her name, she knew someone special was there for her. And when she finally saw her mom, she immediately ran across the stage and gave her mother a tight hug. It was a seriously heartwarming scene to witness.

The family re-watched their reunion video.

When the family arrived home, they decided to re-watched the video of Avarie’s choir concert. Everyone was laughing after.

“Of course (Avarie) was a typical teenager. She was afraid her makeup was running, so she turned away from the audience. I couldn’t have been happier how it worked out. I didn’t even notice the audience was standing up, I was so zoned in on her.” -Tawnee said.

The family was happy that they were able to celebrate Christmas together and that they get to be a real family for a while. Tawnee was also happy that she’s able to see her kids open up their Christmas presents personally. As a mother, there’s nothing better than being with your family and spending quality time with them, particularly on such a special day.

Watch the touching video below.

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Source: YouTube