Tuesday, July 21, 2009
"Hello again. So today was a strictly business day but it was fun nonetheless. Today we had two classes on self-aid and buddy care, also known as SABC. We took one class all morning and one all afternoon. The classes we took today focused on learning about the life giving systems and how to keep them going. So half of the class was in the traditional classroom and half was outside practicing on dummies and each other. We practiced things like finding a pulse, applying tourniquets and splints, dressing and bandaging limb wounds, head wounds and abdominal wounds. We learned how to seal a punctured lung and how to replace organs that are outside of the body. We also practiced placing tubes through the nose to open the airway. We have two more SABC classes tomorrow so it should be another fun day."
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
"So like I said, today was another strictly business day. We had two more SABC classes. The first kinda was boring. We learned about burns, frostbite, heat stroke, and chemical attacks. There wasn't any more application that we hadn't practiced yesterday so it was just a class. This afternoon we learned and practiced victim transportation. So we were out in the sun dragging, rolling, and lifting each other around. We also built improvised stretchers and practiced with those. We have base details tomorrow so we'll all be up at 0200 so I'm off to bed!"
Thursday, July 23, 2009
"So like I said, we had base details today and I was one of two picked to do Chapel detail. I still had to get up at 0200 because half of the flight had KP duty and had to be at the kitchen at like 0315. I didn't have to leave until 0830 so I spent a lot of time just chillin' in the dorm. When we got to Chapel duty, I found out it was going to be super easy. All I did was basic housework like windows, vacuuming, trash, and stuff. The thing is, it was all pretty darn clean. I also scored an orange soda and a poptart during a break. So other than getting up early, it was a pretty easy day."
7.27.2009
Finder's Keeper's
So something whack is going on with my camera. I looked over and over again, and even had other people look to see if I was crazy but my Harry Potter and camping pictures really were nowhere to be found on my camera. Last night, I plugged my camera in and they showed up on my computer. So bizarre!! So here are all the pictures from Harry Potter which we had a blast at. My friend Erin and I went and I took Jalen with us because she loves HP just as much as me! The crazy people all dressed up were funny/interesting albeit obnoxious and annoying beyond belief. I decided this was my last midnight showing of any movie. It was hard to enjoy the movie with all the cat calls and chatter and screaming and laughing and clapping throughout the entire movie. Cody and I will just go and enjoy movies like a week after they come out. It was a good time though. Here are the pics!
This is the only kid that cracked me up with his costume. Here he was supposed to be a giant Hagrid, but he was so tiny. He was pretty cute though.
This is the only kid that cracked me up with his costume. Here he was supposed to be a giant Hagrid, but he was so tiny. He was pretty cute though.
7.26.2009
Sharin some picture love
I was so excited to have a picture post full of the goings-on in my life right now but I am so mad!! I went to go upload all the camping pictures and Harry Potter pictures and my memory card is empty!!! I am so upset, I don't know what happened.
Before I got sick, my friend Erin and I had been working out everyday! We love our P90X yoga and ab ripper and plyometrics. We also had been running and doing water aerobics. Since I'm not allowed to work out right now, we spend our time just hanging out but she is the best work out partner ever. We just laugh and have a great time. It helps that when I'm sore and walkin funny, she is too :)
This is from about 3 weeks ago. I had gone to the temple with Amber and then afterwards my mom had wanted to get out of the house if only for a few hours. We went and just walked around Target and then went to Chili's for dinner. I insisted on a picture because I do not have a single picture of just me and my mom and my sister.
I can't resist posting the many pictures I have of me and Aiden baby. He's just too cute to not share.
This kid has a mean throw and swing. Watch out when he has a bat or a ball. He is 2 and already throws like a pro. This is him posing with his step and throw pitcher's stance.
Before I got sick, my friend Erin and I had been working out everyday! We love our P90X yoga and ab ripper and plyometrics. We also had been running and doing water aerobics. Since I'm not allowed to work out right now, we spend our time just hanging out but she is the best work out partner ever. We just laugh and have a great time. It helps that when I'm sore and walkin funny, she is too :)
This is from about 3 weeks ago. I had gone to the temple with Amber and then afterwards my mom had wanted to get out of the house if only for a few hours. We went and just walked around Target and then went to Chili's for dinner. I insisted on a picture because I do not have a single picture of just me and my mom and my sister.
I can't resist posting the many pictures I have of me and Aiden baby. He's just too cute to not share.
This kid has a mean throw and swing. Watch out when he has a bat or a ball. He is 2 and already throws like a pro. This is him posing with his step and throw pitcher's stance.
Cody's Letters July 19th-July 20th
Sunday, July 19, 2009
"Not much to report today, just another wonderful Sunday. It was Stake Conference so we had the opportunity to listen to the Stake President and our Branch President. Both gave amazing talks. In Priesthood we learned about the Wentworth letter which was really interesting. Other than that it was a decently relaxing day."
Monday, July 20, 2009
"Today was hot. That just about sums it up. We spent all day on the drill pad which is really just a giant asphalt parking lot with random lines on it. We were learning new drill movements and spent plenty of time practicing. After lunch we got to do the same thing. I think it got up to 104 here today. It's so humid here, that when it rains, the puddles don't dry up for days. Kinda ridiculous if you ask me. But I handle it better than most everyone else. We have one kid from Alaska and he's not doing too great. But the instructors know its hot and they have a system in place using colored flags so that as it gets hotter, we are limited in what we can do. I'm guessing it won't be any cooler when everyone gets here so you all can experience it too!!"
"Not much to report today, just another wonderful Sunday. It was Stake Conference so we had the opportunity to listen to the Stake President and our Branch President. Both gave amazing talks. In Priesthood we learned about the Wentworth letter which was really interesting. Other than that it was a decently relaxing day."
Monday, July 20, 2009
"Today was hot. That just about sums it up. We spent all day on the drill pad which is really just a giant asphalt parking lot with random lines on it. We were learning new drill movements and spent plenty of time practicing. After lunch we got to do the same thing. I think it got up to 104 here today. It's so humid here, that when it rains, the puddles don't dry up for days. Kinda ridiculous if you ask me. But I handle it better than most everyone else. We have one kid from Alaska and he's not doing too great. But the instructors know its hot and they have a system in place using colored flags so that as it gets hotter, we are limited in what we can do. I'm guessing it won't be any cooler when everyone gets here so you all can experience it too!!"
Tender Mercies
For Elder Bednar's full talk, click on my blog title and it'll take you to it :)
There have been so many times in my life, and especially in these last few months that I have been the recipient of God's tender mercies. I was wanting to get a better feel for a way to describe what, to me, tender mercies are and I remember David A. Bednar giving a talk on such a thing. Here is a small excerpt.
"Since last October I have reflected repeatedly upon the phrase “the tender mercies of the Lord.” Through personal study, observation, pondering, and prayer, I believe I have come to better understand that the Lord’s tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ. Truly, the Lord suits “his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men” (D&C 46:15)."
As a lot of you know, I have been struggling for about a month with my health. I think that for me, this would be tough at anytime but with Cody being gone, it is extraordinarily difficult for me to stay positive. Yes I have my family supporting me and helping me out as well as the love from Cody's family and from my good friend Erin, who takes care of me everyday, but not having my husband here has really been taking its toll on me. I just keep telling myself, I have had it much worse than this before, and other people have it way worse than me right now, so to just keep my chin up and get through things one day at a time.
Well yesterday, I was having a really hard time. I had had a frustrating Friday and then yesterday didn't seem to be going any better. I was sitting on my bed just reading when my phone rings and I glance at the number and lo and behold its a 210 area code!! I answered with a, "Hey baby!!" It was funny because I caught him off guard by knowing it was him. I asked him how he was and he said, "The real question is how are you?" He had gotten my letter explaining about my hospital visit but hadn't received any of my follow up letters. He was worried sick, which I knew he would be but I had HOPED, he would realize if he hadn't heard from the Red Cross, then it couldn't have been too terribly serious. I just kept reassuring him I was fine and I was doing what I could to take care of myself. He is still pretty sick from that yucky cold but holdin up just fine. We both just needed to hear each other's voices so badly. It was exactly what I needed. It was a God-send. It was a tender mercy.
After the phone call, I went down to find some kleenex and found another tender mercy awaiting me on the kitchen counter. A letter!!
I'll just go ahead and throw a quick update in here as well. I went to my new OB on Friday and after my exam he said he didn't think I have any more cysts or endometriosis. He said my symptoms are not congruent with that at all and he believes it could be blood floating around my abdomen and bladder. He also said, he could guess at a million different things that it COULD be but he just doesn't know. My pain has gotten even worse and even more uncomfortable. I am exhausted all the time, my nose-bleeds have worsened, and I am so nauseous. He said that if my symptoms and pain worsened over the weekend, to call him on Monday and he would set up a consult with a general surgeon. So that is the plan for now. I'll be calling first thing tomorrow morning and we will see what happens.
On a lighter note, 33 DAYS UNTIL I GET TO SEE CODY!!
There have been so many times in my life, and especially in these last few months that I have been the recipient of God's tender mercies. I was wanting to get a better feel for a way to describe what, to me, tender mercies are and I remember David A. Bednar giving a talk on such a thing. Here is a small excerpt.
"Since last October I have reflected repeatedly upon the phrase “the tender mercies of the Lord.” Through personal study, observation, pondering, and prayer, I believe I have come to better understand that the Lord’s tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ. Truly, the Lord suits “his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men” (D&C 46:15)."
As a lot of you know, I have been struggling for about a month with my health. I think that for me, this would be tough at anytime but with Cody being gone, it is extraordinarily difficult for me to stay positive. Yes I have my family supporting me and helping me out as well as the love from Cody's family and from my good friend Erin, who takes care of me everyday, but not having my husband here has really been taking its toll on me. I just keep telling myself, I have had it much worse than this before, and other people have it way worse than me right now, so to just keep my chin up and get through things one day at a time.
Well yesterday, I was having a really hard time. I had had a frustrating Friday and then yesterday didn't seem to be going any better. I was sitting on my bed just reading when my phone rings and I glance at the number and lo and behold its a 210 area code!! I answered with a, "Hey baby!!" It was funny because I caught him off guard by knowing it was him. I asked him how he was and he said, "The real question is how are you?" He had gotten my letter explaining about my hospital visit but hadn't received any of my follow up letters. He was worried sick, which I knew he would be but I had HOPED, he would realize if he hadn't heard from the Red Cross, then it couldn't have been too terribly serious. I just kept reassuring him I was fine and I was doing what I could to take care of myself. He is still pretty sick from that yucky cold but holdin up just fine. We both just needed to hear each other's voices so badly. It was exactly what I needed. It was a God-send. It was a tender mercy.
After the phone call, I went down to find some kleenex and found another tender mercy awaiting me on the kitchen counter. A letter!!
I'll just go ahead and throw a quick update in here as well. I went to my new OB on Friday and after my exam he said he didn't think I have any more cysts or endometriosis. He said my symptoms are not congruent with that at all and he believes it could be blood floating around my abdomen and bladder. He also said, he could guess at a million different things that it COULD be but he just doesn't know. My pain has gotten even worse and even more uncomfortable. I am exhausted all the time, my nose-bleeds have worsened, and I am so nauseous. He said that if my symptoms and pain worsened over the weekend, to call him on Monday and he would set up a consult with a general surgeon. So that is the plan for now. I'll be calling first thing tomorrow morning and we will see what happens.
On a lighter note, 33 DAYS UNTIL I GET TO SEE CODY!!
7.24.2009
Cody's Letters July 13th-July 18th
Monday, July 13, 2009
"Well its official, I'm sick. Definitely not fun. Its just a super runny nose and sore throat but its really the last thing I needed here. If I was to guess though, I would say that half of the 51 of us have some sort of cold. Luckily, today was easy as far as BMT goes. PT went by really quickly and we had a really interesting AF History class all morning. It was basically watching a documentary about everything from the Wright brothers to the end of WWII. We'll get to have a class on the rest sometime later. After lunch we practiced weapons breakdown and reassembly. Almost everyone here can already beat the time we need to pass the test. Okay well like I said, it was a slow day, so until tomorrow, peace."
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
"Today was probably one of the most fun days of BMT yet. We spent the morning practicing for our upcoming drill evaluation (in the shade) and in the afternoon we got to learn and practice integrated base defense. That means we were outside low crawling through the sand, beating rubber torsos with our M-16's and practicing tactical movements. It was fun to get out and do something rather than just learning about it. We all came in tired and dirty and rather cheerful. All in all it made for a pretty good day."
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
"Today was a really good day. Why is that you ask? Two things, a Dr. Pepper and a crunch bar. But lets back up a second. We got up this morning at 0200 because we had flight details around the base. One group had to get up that early so everyone did. My job was to issue clothing to the zero-weekers and I didn't have to leave until 0700. So once the dorm was clean and set up, my group just chilled and napped in our chairs. Our detail was pretty easy. We handled combat bot issue and got to boss the new kids around. When the end of our detail came around 1600, the Sergeants we were working for (not TI's) said we did a great job and gave us a can of soda and a candy bar. I took the time to savor mine. It was pure bliss. And that was my day. Ok well we are having clothing and locker inspection tomorrow morning so I have to go perfect some underwear."
Thursday, July 16, 2009
"Well put another day down in the books for me. We started the morning with another Integrated Base Defense class where we learned how to guard a base and apprehend potential hostiles. It was a super long class with time split between a sweltering classroom and the slightly warmer outdoors. The heat is worth it though just to get out and do something. Then this afternoon we had our first real inspection. I'm proud to say I passed. Only about 1/2 of our flight passed everything the first time. If you failed an area you get to try again tomorrow and if you fail again, you're in hot water. But I have nothing to worry about. Okay its bedtime for me. I was lucky enough to be on Entry Controller duty from 0030 to 0230 this morning so I'm pooped. Goodnight everyone."
Friday, July 17, 2009
"Today was a pretty slow moving day but we did get some important things done. We had part one of career guidance which really only included some paperwork. We did get to fill in our base wish list though. Unfortunately I won't be assigned a base until Tech School. Other that that all we did was get our 3 pairs of glasses. We got some butt ugly BCG's aka birth control glasses, our gas mask goggles, and our frames of our choice. My frame of choice is pretty basic black frames. They are super comfy though. We only have to wear BCG's when we do super physical stuff like BEAST and stick fighting."
Saturday, July 18, 2009
"Well today had its ups and downs but I made it through. We started today with a PT evaluation and I did better than I thought. Our first evaluation back in our first week was really bad. I'm sure it was because of the stress and also getting used to breathing such humid air. But this time I was back to my usual run time and I improved on push ups, sit ups, and pull ups. As a flight we got our dorms set up really quickly which earned us an actual compliment from our TI. Then this afternoon we had a drill evaluation which we sucked at. I think we got a 2 out of 10. But I our TI thought that was crap because the evaluator was new and the best score he gave was a 3. So we didn't get in trouble for that but we do have to get better. So that's another day down and tomorrow is Sunday!!"
"Well its official, I'm sick. Definitely not fun. Its just a super runny nose and sore throat but its really the last thing I needed here. If I was to guess though, I would say that half of the 51 of us have some sort of cold. Luckily, today was easy as far as BMT goes. PT went by really quickly and we had a really interesting AF History class all morning. It was basically watching a documentary about everything from the Wright brothers to the end of WWII. We'll get to have a class on the rest sometime later. After lunch we practiced weapons breakdown and reassembly. Almost everyone here can already beat the time we need to pass the test. Okay well like I said, it was a slow day, so until tomorrow, peace."
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
"Today was probably one of the most fun days of BMT yet. We spent the morning practicing for our upcoming drill evaluation (in the shade) and in the afternoon we got to learn and practice integrated base defense. That means we were outside low crawling through the sand, beating rubber torsos with our M-16's and practicing tactical movements. It was fun to get out and do something rather than just learning about it. We all came in tired and dirty and rather cheerful. All in all it made for a pretty good day."
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
"Today was a really good day. Why is that you ask? Two things, a Dr. Pepper and a crunch bar. But lets back up a second. We got up this morning at 0200 because we had flight details around the base. One group had to get up that early so everyone did. My job was to issue clothing to the zero-weekers and I didn't have to leave until 0700. So once the dorm was clean and set up, my group just chilled and napped in our chairs. Our detail was pretty easy. We handled combat bot issue and got to boss the new kids around. When the end of our detail came around 1600, the Sergeants we were working for (not TI's) said we did a great job and gave us a can of soda and a candy bar. I took the time to savor mine. It was pure bliss. And that was my day. Ok well we are having clothing and locker inspection tomorrow morning so I have to go perfect some underwear."
Thursday, July 16, 2009
"Well put another day down in the books for me. We started the morning with another Integrated Base Defense class where we learned how to guard a base and apprehend potential hostiles. It was a super long class with time split between a sweltering classroom and the slightly warmer outdoors. The heat is worth it though just to get out and do something. Then this afternoon we had our first real inspection. I'm proud to say I passed. Only about 1/2 of our flight passed everything the first time. If you failed an area you get to try again tomorrow and if you fail again, you're in hot water. But I have nothing to worry about. Okay its bedtime for me. I was lucky enough to be on Entry Controller duty from 0030 to 0230 this morning so I'm pooped. Goodnight everyone."
Friday, July 17, 2009
"Today was a pretty slow moving day but we did get some important things done. We had part one of career guidance which really only included some paperwork. We did get to fill in our base wish list though. Unfortunately I won't be assigned a base until Tech School. Other that that all we did was get our 3 pairs of glasses. We got some butt ugly BCG's aka birth control glasses, our gas mask goggles, and our frames of our choice. My frame of choice is pretty basic black frames. They are super comfy though. We only have to wear BCG's when we do super physical stuff like BEAST and stick fighting."
Saturday, July 18, 2009
"Well today had its ups and downs but I made it through. We started today with a PT evaluation and I did better than I thought. Our first evaluation back in our first week was really bad. I'm sure it was because of the stress and also getting used to breathing such humid air. But this time I was back to my usual run time and I improved on push ups, sit ups, and pull ups. As a flight we got our dorms set up really quickly which earned us an actual compliment from our TI. Then this afternoon we had a drill evaluation which we sucked at. I think we got a 2 out of 10. But I our TI thought that was crap because the evaluator was new and the best score he gave was a 3. So we didn't get in trouble for that but we do have to get better. So that's another day down and tomorrow is Sunday!!"
Simple Explanation
Here's an idea of the effects of socialism. Some people think its complicated yet so perfectly balanced when in reality it is a farce, and will be the downfall of America.
An economics professor at a local college made a statement that he had never failed a single student before, but he had failed an entire class. That class had insisted that Obama's socialism worked and that no one would be poor and no one would be rich. It would be a great equalizer.
The professor then said, "OK, we will have an experiment in this class on Obama's plan". He explained that all grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A. After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone got a B. The students who studied hard were upset and the students who studied little were happy. As the second test rolled around, the students who studied little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a free ride too so they studied little. The second test average was a D! No one was happy.
When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F. The scores never increased as bickering, blame and name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the benefit of anyone else. All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great but when government takes all the reward away, no one will try or want to succeed.
It really couldn't be any simpler than that.
An economics professor at a local college made a statement that he had never failed a single student before, but he had failed an entire class. That class had insisted that Obama's socialism worked and that no one would be poor and no one would be rich. It would be a great equalizer.
The professor then said, "OK, we will have an experiment in this class on Obama's plan". He explained that all grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A. After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone got a B. The students who studied hard were upset and the students who studied little were happy. As the second test rolled around, the students who studied little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a free ride too so they studied little. The second test average was a D! No one was happy.
When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F. The scores never increased as bickering, blame and name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the benefit of anyone else. All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great but when government takes all the reward away, no one will try or want to succeed.
It really couldn't be any simpler than that.
7.21.2009
Update Schmupdate
So for the last few weeks, I have been having a building pressure on my pelvis that has transformed into severe pain. On Sunday night, it got nearly intolerable. I got a blessing from my dad and from Cody's friend Robby. I had just been planning on waiting until the next day until I went to Urgent Care. After the blessing though, I knew I had to go the the ER right away. My mom took me over to Banner Gateway and I got in relatively quickly. I even got put into a room with an actual bed! It took them a while to get pain meds started so that was pretty rough.
They took a urine sample and blood test which both came back negative for pregnancy. THANK HEAVENS. That meant not another ectopic pregnancy which was such a huge relief because the pain is pretty similar. They ordered and ultrasound and discovered a lot (way more than expected) of free fluid on my pelvis. The doctor came to the conclusion that I had a severely ruptured ovarian cyst on my left ovary. Yay for me! They told me to get in with my regular OB as soon as possible.
I have been the recipient of God's tender mercies time and time again. I called in to the doctor but was told they had no openings. About an hour later I got a call saying there had been a cancellation. Woo hoo!! Amber took me in and now I am waiting to hear back from my doctor because I will be going back in for another laporoscopy procedure. They will be going in to remove any other cysts and just make sure everything is as normal as possible. The pain is pretty bad but I am not vomiting anymore, thank goodness so I am able to keep down the pain meds. That's my update!
They took a urine sample and blood test which both came back negative for pregnancy. THANK HEAVENS. That meant not another ectopic pregnancy which was such a huge relief because the pain is pretty similar. They ordered and ultrasound and discovered a lot (way more than expected) of free fluid on my pelvis. The doctor came to the conclusion that I had a severely ruptured ovarian cyst on my left ovary. Yay for me! They told me to get in with my regular OB as soon as possible.
I have been the recipient of God's tender mercies time and time again. I called in to the doctor but was told they had no openings. About an hour later I got a call saying there had been a cancellation. Woo hoo!! Amber took me in and now I am waiting to hear back from my doctor because I will be going back in for another laporoscopy procedure. They will be going in to remove any other cysts and just make sure everything is as normal as possible. The pain is pretty bad but I am not vomiting anymore, thank goodness so I am able to keep down the pain meds. That's my update!
Cody's Letters July 10th-July 12th
Saturday, July 11, 2009
"It has been an absolutely crazy last 2 days. Friday wasn't too horrible to be honest, just busy. Our regular TI SSGT. Yodar had to be in a parade for a retiring general or something so we had a different TI all day. I was kinda worried about it at first cause Sgt. Yodar is relatively laid back, but this guy wasn't too bad at all. We did really well as a flight and actually got a compliment. BTW, that's a BIG DEAL. I think we may have had some other appointments but things farther back than today really start to just blend together.
Okay now to today. I was lucky enough to be selected for KP duty. I was one of 15 from our flight to be selected. Lucky me. I was up at 0315 and at the kitchen by 0400. Then I got to work in the kitchen until 2015. Whoopee... We did get a little more food and more time to eat than everyone but that was the only plus of the day. My job was trash and believe me, there was constantly trash to take out. That was literally all I did, all day. But I did my time and hopefully that's the only time I have KP for a long time. And with that as my last thought, I leave you all for bed. Goodnight."
Sunday, July 12, 2009
"Well today was a good day. Compared to other days, today was super relaxed and laid back. I got to talk to my extraordinary wife, spend time in the quiet peace of church, and I got some good time to eat. We did have our first inspection today for our clothes and beds and stuff but it wasn't anything we weren't expecting. This one didn't count and now we have a chance to fix everything. And that sums up my day. I love Sundays!!"
"It has been an absolutely crazy last 2 days. Friday wasn't too horrible to be honest, just busy. Our regular TI SSGT. Yodar had to be in a parade for a retiring general or something so we had a different TI all day. I was kinda worried about it at first cause Sgt. Yodar is relatively laid back, but this guy wasn't too bad at all. We did really well as a flight and actually got a compliment. BTW, that's a BIG DEAL. I think we may have had some other appointments but things farther back than today really start to just blend together.
Okay now to today. I was lucky enough to be selected for KP duty. I was one of 15 from our flight to be selected. Lucky me. I was up at 0315 and at the kitchen by 0400. Then I got to work in the kitchen until 2015. Whoopee... We did get a little more food and more time to eat than everyone but that was the only plus of the day. My job was trash and believe me, there was constantly trash to take out. That was literally all I did, all day. But I did my time and hopefully that's the only time I have KP for a long time. And with that as my last thought, I leave you all for bed. Goodnight."
Sunday, July 12, 2009
"Well today was a good day. Compared to other days, today was super relaxed and laid back. I got to talk to my extraordinary wife, spend time in the quiet peace of church, and I got some good time to eat. We did have our first inspection today for our clothes and beds and stuff but it wasn't anything we weren't expecting. This one didn't count and now we have a chance to fix everything. And that sums up my day. I love Sundays!!"
7.14.2009
Stoked!!!
Note: Title is port-key
I am so unbelievably excited!! No, not because I have yet to pack anything, or do any laundry and I'm leaving tomorrow. HARRY POTTER is tonight!!! Midnight showing baby with Erin and Jalen.
I am so unbelievably excited!! No, not because I have yet to pack anything, or do any laundry and I'm leaving tomorrow. HARRY POTTER is tonight!!! Midnight showing baby with Erin and Jalen.
7.13.2009
Cody's Letters July 6th-July 9th
Wooot!! I am such a lucky girl! I came home and got the mail not expecting anything except bills and my parents mail and I had not one, but TWO envelopes from Cody. Granted one is all official paperwork on his graduation and such but still. Ha ha. Here they are folks!!
Monday, July 6, 2009
"Today was our first morning of PT so we were up at 0445 and on the PT Pad sweating by 0505. It was a tough work out but I made it through. We assigned more positions today like Dorm Chief and Element Leaders. My job is Academic Monitor. All that means is that I call role before class and report it to the instructor. Pretty darn easy. My detail also got changed from Latrine Cleaning to Utility Closet. All I do is hand out cleaning supplies to everybody. Its easy and away from the TI's. That's really all we've done today. We had two classes this morning and spent all afternoon perfecting our area."
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
"I got a letter today!!! Thank you so much Chelle for making my day. Today wasn't too bad of a day. There was a big thunderstorm this morning so we didn't do PT today. It was certainly humid this afternoon though. Luckily they have a heat system so that when it gets too hot, they limit what we can do. So far we've hit the highest limit everyday. It's uncomfortable but not too horrible. This morning we practiced drill (marching) and this afternoon we did processing paperwork for I's and stuff. We've finally gotten to the point where the TI's leave for good at dinner time and we spend the rest of the evening cleaning and folding/rolling clothes with exact precision. I'm proud to say I'm getting better!"
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
"Today I got a big Penicillin shot right in the butt. Needless to say it hurt like the dickens and everyone is limping. This is actually the 4th shot I've gotten since arriving and there's more to come. The worst part is that the Medical area is on the far side of the base. It's a long hot walk. We also were issued our M16's today and given a class on how to assemble and disassemble them. it seems cool but really its just another thing to haul around in the heat. We won't actually shoot until our fifth week."
Thursday, July 9, 2009
"Today was a super long day but a good one nonetheless. I had to get up at 0215 (that's 2:15 am) to perform entry control duty. That means I'm up in full uniform for a 2 hour shift making sure everyone is accounted for and if anyone wants in the dorm I have to make sure they have authority. There is someone on EC duty 24 hours a day, I just happened to get a night shift today. Luckily everyone else got up at 0400 because we had to be at dental and glasses appointment super early. It also meant no PT today so lucky me. Dental and glasses were easy but took like 6 hrs. After lunch we had classes and dinner and more classes. We just had mail call and I was lucky enough to get a card from Chelle and a letter from Carrie. There really is nothing better in the day than getting a letter. Thank you so much."
Monday, July 6, 2009
"Today was our first morning of PT so we were up at 0445 and on the PT Pad sweating by 0505. It was a tough work out but I made it through. We assigned more positions today like Dorm Chief and Element Leaders. My job is Academic Monitor. All that means is that I call role before class and report it to the instructor. Pretty darn easy. My detail also got changed from Latrine Cleaning to Utility Closet. All I do is hand out cleaning supplies to everybody. Its easy and away from the TI's. That's really all we've done today. We had two classes this morning and spent all afternoon perfecting our area."
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
"I got a letter today!!! Thank you so much Chelle for making my day. Today wasn't too bad of a day. There was a big thunderstorm this morning so we didn't do PT today. It was certainly humid this afternoon though. Luckily they have a heat system so that when it gets too hot, they limit what we can do. So far we've hit the highest limit everyday. It's uncomfortable but not too horrible. This morning we practiced drill (marching) and this afternoon we did processing paperwork for I's and stuff. We've finally gotten to the point where the TI's leave for good at dinner time and we spend the rest of the evening cleaning and folding/rolling clothes with exact precision. I'm proud to say I'm getting better!"
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
"Today I got a big Penicillin shot right in the butt. Needless to say it hurt like the dickens and everyone is limping. This is actually the 4th shot I've gotten since arriving and there's more to come. The worst part is that the Medical area is on the far side of the base. It's a long hot walk. We also were issued our M16's today and given a class on how to assemble and disassemble them. it seems cool but really its just another thing to haul around in the heat. We won't actually shoot until our fifth week."
Thursday, July 9, 2009
"Today was a super long day but a good one nonetheless. I had to get up at 0215 (that's 2:15 am) to perform entry control duty. That means I'm up in full uniform for a 2 hour shift making sure everyone is accounted for and if anyone wants in the dorm I have to make sure they have authority. There is someone on EC duty 24 hours a day, I just happened to get a night shift today. Luckily everyone else got up at 0400 because we had to be at dental and glasses appointment super early. It also meant no PT today so lucky me. Dental and glasses were easy but took like 6 hrs. After lunch we had classes and dinner and more classes. We just had mail call and I was lucky enough to get a card from Chelle and a letter from Carrie. There really is nothing better in the day than getting a letter. Thank you so much."
7.12.2009
Cody's Letters June 29-July 5
This last Friday I got my first letters from Cody!! Here they are :)
Monday, June 29, 2009
"Well its been a super long day already and its not going to end anytime soon. Currently I'm sitting at the airport but I'll be at this airport another four hours. I spent six hours already today at MEPS doing pretty much nothing. After a quick swear-in they sent us here. After leaving SLC I have a 1.5 hour layover in Dallas then on to San Antonio. That will be at 10:40 PM and I still have an hour bus ride! Tomorrow morning is going to come awfully early."
Tuesday, June 30, 2009- Sunday, July 5, 2009
"Holy cow its been a crazy week. We didn't get in and settled until 3 AM Tuesday morning. There hasn't been as much yelling as I expected but it has been super stressful. Its been over 100 degrees everyday and super humid. The ABU's we wear are not made for this. Even inside, its a constant sweat. There are 52 in my flight from all over the country. We're finally starting to work together (ps its Sunday night). That means the yelling is going down and the privileges are going up, hence the letter writing. Its definitely been a long week though. I've certainly learned a lot though. Marching, bed making, clothes folding, bathroom cleaning... I think you get the point. Luckily this week things get rolling. Well thats all for now. Hopefully we'll do well this week and I'll get to write more. Until next time, love you all."
Here are some excerpts from the letter directly to me.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
"Our TI (training instructor) is brand new so he doesn't yell too much compared to the others. He's actually pretty laid back when its just us and him. We're his first flight so we're all learning together. This week has been long but looking back we've come a long way. The stress is ridiculous but I'm finally adjusting."
"We got our jobs the other day. I'm on Latrine Crew. Its not as bad as it sounds cause there are 10 of us in there all together. Oh ya, want to hear something funny? We got in trouble for dirty bathrooms like the 2nd day and from then on, we all have to sit to pee. Believe me, its a pain. But its no biggie all things considered."
"I am so thankful for the Gospel right now. To tell the truth, I pray at least hourly. Its what gets me through the day. Church was amazing today. Hopefully you got the email from the missionary couple here. Brother and Sister Reynolds are so amazing and I am so thankful they are here. Just listening to them is such a comfort, I am close to tears every time. Church will surely be a highlight every week. We actually have a pretty good sized branch here. I'll meet with the Branch Presidency next week. I'm the only LDS guy in my flight but its no big deal. I love the Church so much and can't wait for next week."
OH MAN OH MAN OH MAN!! I was getting ready for church this morning when my cell phone rings with a 210 area code. I jumped at it and it was my love!!! Oh my gosh I was trying so hard not to cry. Ha ha I told Cody I couldn't because I had already finished my makeup. It was so unbelievably good to hear his voice. He was calling to give me some information but he was able to talk for about 15 minutes. It was much too short but was amazing! I said, "You're alive!!" He laughed and told me he was good. He said this last week had gotten a lot better and he expected it to just keep getting better. We talked about little things. He did get really emotional at one point, which greatly threatened my mascara, ha ha but he said, "Oh Chelle, everyone cries here." That made me laugh. He really likes his flight and his brother flight and said his TI is pretty cool. I just couldn't get over how fantastic it was to be talking to him and listening to his voice. 7 more weeks until I get to see his lovely face and get a big hug and smooch!
7.11.2009
We are in agreement
I received this from my MIL and agreed with it whole-heartedly. Not just because the media/liberal Hollywood worship makes me sick and not because my husband is in the Air Force and the possibility of him getting deployed terrifies me. I agree with it because the American people take what we have, for granted. No one thinks that the reason they get to sleep in a comfy bed at night with full stomach's is because of the blood that has been given on their behalf. Here it is:
SOLDIER RESPONDS TO MJ'S DEATH
This is written by a young man serving his third tour of duty in Iraq. Thought you might find his take on the Michael Jackson news interesting.
________________________________________________________________________________________
"Okay, I need to rant. I was just watching the news, and I caught part of a report on Michael Jackson. As we all know, Jackson died the other day. He was an entertainer who performed for decades. He made millions, he spent millions, and he did a lot of things that make him a villain to many people. I understand that his death would affect a lot of people and I respect those people who mourn his death, but that isn't the point of my rant.
Why is it that when ONE man dies, the whole of America loses their minds with grief? When a man dies whose only contribution to the country was to ENTERTAIN people, the American people find the need to flock to a memorial in Hollywood, and even Congress sees the need to hold a "moment of silence" for his passing?
Am I missing something here? ONE man dies, and all of a sudden he's a freaking martyr because he entertained us for a few decades? What about all those SOLDIERS who have died to give us freedom? All those soldiers who, knowing that they would be asked to fight in a war, still raised their hands and swore to defend the Constitution and the United States of America. Where is their moment of silence? Where are the people flocking to their graves or memorials and mourning over them because they made the ultimate sacrifice? Why is it when a soldier dies, there are more people saying "good riddance," and "thank God for IEDs?" When did this country become so calloused to the sacrifice of GOOD MEN and WOMEN, that they can arbitrarily blow off their deaths, and instead, throw themselves into mourning for a "Pop Icon?"
I think that if they are going to hold a moment of silence IN CONGRESS For Michael Jackson, they need to hold a moment of silence for every Service member killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. They need to PUBLICLY recognize every life that has been lost so that the American people can live their callous little lives in the luxury and freedom that WE, those that are living and those that have gone on, have provided for them. But, wait, that would take too much time, because there have been so many willing to make that sacrifice. After all, we will never make millions of dollars. We will never star in movies, or write hit songs that the world will listen too. We only shed our blood, sweat, and tears so that people can enjoy what they have.
Sorry if I have offended, but I needed to say it. Remember these five words the next time you think of someone who is serving in the military;
"So that others may live..."
Isaac"
SOLDIER RESPONDS TO MJ'S DEATH
This is written by a young man serving his third tour of duty in Iraq. Thought you might find his take on the Michael Jackson news interesting.
________________________________________________________________________________________
"Okay, I need to rant. I was just watching the news, and I caught part of a report on Michael Jackson. As we all know, Jackson died the other day. He was an entertainer who performed for decades. He made millions, he spent millions, and he did a lot of things that make him a villain to many people. I understand that his death would affect a lot of people and I respect those people who mourn his death, but that isn't the point of my rant.
Why is it that when ONE man dies, the whole of America loses their minds with grief? When a man dies whose only contribution to the country was to ENTERTAIN people, the American people find the need to flock to a memorial in Hollywood, and even Congress sees the need to hold a "moment of silence" for his passing?
Am I missing something here? ONE man dies, and all of a sudden he's a freaking martyr because he entertained us for a few decades? What about all those SOLDIERS who have died to give us freedom? All those soldiers who, knowing that they would be asked to fight in a war, still raised their hands and swore to defend the Constitution and the United States of America. Where is their moment of silence? Where are the people flocking to their graves or memorials and mourning over them because they made the ultimate sacrifice? Why is it when a soldier dies, there are more people saying "good riddance," and "thank God for IEDs?" When did this country become so calloused to the sacrifice of GOOD MEN and WOMEN, that they can arbitrarily blow off their deaths, and instead, throw themselves into mourning for a "Pop Icon?"
I think that if they are going to hold a moment of silence IN CONGRESS For Michael Jackson, they need to hold a moment of silence for every Service member killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. They need to PUBLICLY recognize every life that has been lost so that the American people can live their callous little lives in the luxury and freedom that WE, those that are living and those that have gone on, have provided for them. But, wait, that would take too much time, because there have been so many willing to make that sacrifice. After all, we will never make millions of dollars. We will never star in movies, or write hit songs that the world will listen too. We only shed our blood, sweat, and tears so that people can enjoy what they have.
Sorry if I have offended, but I needed to say it. Remember these five words the next time you think of someone who is serving in the military;
"So that others may live..."
Isaac"
Final Catch Up on June
Alright I finally finished uploading my pictures from June!
Aiden loved jumping on the trampoline with Cody because Cody bounces him up so high. Don't mind my bright red chest and neck, I randomly break out in horrible hives and that just happened to be one of those days.
These are from when we went out to dinner with Cody's friend Robby and my friend Erin. Robby looks happy doesn't he?
Cool story: Cody & I tried setting Erin up with Robby while he was still on his mission, but she started dating this other guy. Things didn't work out with that guy so after Cody left, I put energy into setting them up again, and they've hit it off completely! They are so cute together and I am so excited! Haha its like best friends dating best friends. Yay for me and my cupid skills :)
Its funny, because any guy that dates Erin, has to arm wrestle her mom, Connie. Its kind of a lose lose situation. If the guy loses, he's a wuss, if he wins, he's a jerk. Robby did very well. It was a "draw". Ha yeah right. Then everyone insisted on having an arm wrestling tournament.
Aiden loved jumping on the trampoline with Cody because Cody bounces him up so high. Don't mind my bright red chest and neck, I randomly break out in horrible hives and that just happened to be one of those days.
These are from when we went out to dinner with Cody's friend Robby and my friend Erin. Robby looks happy doesn't he?
Cool story: Cody & I tried setting Erin up with Robby while he was still on his mission, but she started dating this other guy. Things didn't work out with that guy so after Cody left, I put energy into setting them up again, and they've hit it off completely! They are so cute together and I am so excited! Haha its like best friends dating best friends. Yay for me and my cupid skills :)
Its funny, because any guy that dates Erin, has to arm wrestle her mom, Connie. Its kind of a lose lose situation. If the guy loses, he's a wuss, if he wins, he's a jerk. Robby did very well. It was a "draw". Ha yeah right. Then everyone insisted on having an arm wrestling tournament.
Picture Time!!
Here are some more Fourth of July pictures. Parker was loving to pose, Shay and Aiden were lovin' on each other, Aiden found Abby's tutu and it seemed to be just the right match for his cowboy boots. We laughed so hard at the one of Shay and Aiden where it looks like he's rubbin' her pregnant belly. :)
Every year all us girls do Fourth of July toes so that explains the circle of mine, Amber's, Katie's, Jalen's, and Abby's toes.
There was a cousin communal bath at the end of the night and Jacob was so embarrassed. What's funny is that Jacob & Zac had gotten in first, then Aiden took of his diaper and climbed in then about 2 minutes later Shaycee waddles in naked and gets in too. Even funnier, is Aiden stood up about 5 minutes after being in and stood in the corner of the tub and totally peed. The kids didn't see it but Gin and Amber and I were just dying laughing. Jacob asked if Aiden had pee'd and we had to fib to keep mayhem from occurring.
Then there's one of all the grand-kids gathering for Zachy to blow out his candles. It was hilarious, we were all singing and right at the end of the song, Aiden leaned over and blew out Zac's candles! We had to re-light them and Aiden was so broken-hearted when he didn't get to blow them out again.
You can tell I had been crying all day in the one with Aiden. I just couldn't stop thinking about Cody. I was an emotional wreck.
Every year all us girls do Fourth of July toes so that explains the circle of mine, Amber's, Katie's, Jalen's, and Abby's toes.
There was a cousin communal bath at the end of the night and Jacob was so embarrassed. What's funny is that Jacob & Zac had gotten in first, then Aiden took of his diaper and climbed in then about 2 minutes later Shaycee waddles in naked and gets in too. Even funnier, is Aiden stood up about 5 minutes after being in and stood in the corner of the tub and totally peed. The kids didn't see it but Gin and Amber and I were just dying laughing. Jacob asked if Aiden had pee'd and we had to fib to keep mayhem from occurring.
Then there's one of all the grand-kids gathering for Zachy to blow out his candles. It was hilarious, we were all singing and right at the end of the song, Aiden leaned over and blew out Zac's candles! We had to re-light them and Aiden was so broken-hearted when he didn't get to blow them out again.
You can tell I had been crying all day in the one with Aiden. I just couldn't stop thinking about Cody. I was an emotional wreck.
Too True
I found this on a friend's blog and thought it too funny (and sadly true) to not post. Click on it to get the full view.
7.07.2009
Fourth of July
My Fourth of July weekend consisted of me watching Jared and Katie's boys. Jared works nights, and Katie was at Girls' Camp so I got Tanner and Parker all to myself. My family went over to Amber & Jeff's for dinner and swimmin' and of lots of playin' :) I of course, cried off and on all day thinking about Cody. hey, its what I do. I got this little photo montage off Gin's blog. Its just a small taste. When I get ambitious, I'll upload more from my camera.
Something fun!!
My cousin Mel had this picture posted on her blog and I just thought I'd share it. My dad's step-mother Joyce (aka my Grandma Organ) was once a movie extra. When she was supah young! This is a picture of her with John Wayne (whom I love!!) on movie posters for "Rio Grande" Neat huh?!
7.06.2009
YAY!! Some Happiness :)
Yesterday, I got a big surprise!! I got back to J&K's & after putting the kids to bed, I checked my email. Waiting for me, was an email from a Brother & Sister Reynolds who are full time missionaries serving in San Antonio. Part of their mission is meeting all of the new recruits at Lackland and contacting their families for them. The email just had basic information but I got pictures of Cody too! It made my life currently. HaHa
"05 JULY 09
To The Family of Airman Basic Cody Steele;
We are full-time missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in San Antonio, Texas. As part of our Church assignment, we had the opportunity to meet Cody on Sunday at the Base Chapel. He gave us permission to e-mail his address and photographs (which are attached below). His address at Lackland AFB is:
AB STEELE, CODY D.
331 TRS / FLT 578 - Dorm B-2
PSC #3
1320 Truemper Street
Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5570
Graduation is scheduled for 28 August 09. Graduation dates may change, therefore, we suggest that you confirm the graduation date with your trainee before purchasing tickets that cannot be modified. The following website gives considerable information about Basic Military Training (BMT) Graduation.
Trainees may not be able to write or call home for the first couple of weeks until their flight earns the privilege, therefore encouraging letters from home would be welcome by them. We are confident that the Trainees will write as soon as permission is granted by their Military Training Instructors (MTI's).
Sincerely,
Elder and Sister Reynolds
Military Relations Missionaries
Lackland AFB, Texas
(619) 888-7199
(619) 770-9900"
We had already been aware of most of this stuff but just being able to have correspondence with someone who had just seen Cody was fantastic!!
Then to top that off, I FINALLY got a call back from one of the 50+ jobs I've called on, applied to, sent resumes over on. I have an interview tomorrow!! I am so stoked. Everyone cross your fingers and pray for me!!
"05 JULY 09
To The Family of Airman Basic Cody Steele;
We are full-time missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in San Antonio, Texas. As part of our Church assignment, we had the opportunity to meet Cody on Sunday at the Base Chapel. He gave us permission to e-mail his address and photographs (which are attached below). His address at Lackland AFB is:
AB STEELE, CODY D.
331 TRS / FLT 578 - Dorm B-2
PSC #3
1320 Truemper Street
Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5570
Graduation is scheduled for 28 August 09. Graduation dates may change, therefore, we suggest that you confirm the graduation date with your trainee before purchasing tickets that cannot be modified. The following website gives considerable information about Basic Military Training (BMT) Graduation.
Trainees may not be able to write or call home for the first couple of weeks until their flight earns the privilege, therefore encouraging letters from home would be welcome by them. We are confident that the Trainees will write as soon as permission is granted by their Military Training Instructors (MTI's).
Sincerely,
Elder and Sister Reynolds
Military Relations Missionaries
Lackland AFB, Texas
(619) 888-7199
(619) 770-9900"
We had already been aware of most of this stuff but just being able to have correspondence with someone who had just seen Cody was fantastic!!
Then to top that off, I FINALLY got a call back from one of the 50+ jobs I've called on, applied to, sent resumes over on. I have an interview tomorrow!! I am so stoked. Everyone cross your fingers and pray for me!!
7.03.2009
Photos by Millie
My friend Millie has her official site up and running. Check her out, she's fabulous!! The title will take you straight there and she is also featured with her blog and site on my left sidebar.
http://photosbymillie.com/
http://photosbymillie.com/
Bittersweet Dream
I have been having no luck getting good sleep since Cody left last Saturday. Granted its gotten a lot worse since I haven't been able to talk to him but finally I was able to sleep on Wednesday night. Last night I was even more exhausted than before and I thought I'd be able to get lots but to no avail. Silly me drank tons of water before bed so I had to get up like 3 times to pee ha ha.
At 3:42 AM my phone rings. I didn't even realize it but I turned it off in my sleep. Good thing it rang 2 minutes later and I answer half asleep and I hear, "Hey baby, its me. I need you to grab a pen." I instantly jump awake and scramble to turn the light on and find a pen. I ask, "How are you?" and hear back, "I need to give you my address, do you have a pen?" The connection was AWFUL but after about ten minutes of asking, "What? did you say C or D or 3?" and such like things, I got my love's correct address.
I proceed to ask again, "How are you?" and hear nothing back. He then says, "I have another card I need to read to you and then we're done." I say, "Okay." and he proceeds to read a very platonic, straight forward card. It said such things as: "In case of an emergency, contact your nearest Red Cross." and "Do not send gifts, packages, pictures, or anything other than letters in plain clearly posted envelopes." I then said, "Well we already knew all that stuff. Can you tell me how you are?" He didn't respond and it was quiet. I said, "Can you hear me? Or can you not say anything than what's written on that card?" No response then about 5 seconds later he said, "I love you Chelle." This pretty much affirmed my suspicion of his TI (training instructor) standing next to him making sure he stuck to the script. I choked out an, "I love you too baby." and he hung up. It was a 13 minute and 13 second phone call and even though we didn't get to actually "talk" it was so good to hear his voice. First thing this morning I got my pages of letters together and they are awaiting USPS pick-up.
As of right now I can depend only on a few scattered short penned letters but I am praying I get lucky and that his TI eases up in a few weeks and allows his flight to start calling home. We shall see I suppose. He really wants people to just email letters to his email so I can print them weekly and send them all in one envelope. For those people who wish to write him and mail it themselves anyways, here is his address.
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT CODY WILL GET IN TROUBLE AND YELLED AT FOR ANYTHING. DON'T SEND ANYTHING OTHER THAN NORMAL PAPER IN A NORMAL ENVELOPE. IF IT FEELS THICK, HIS TI WILL OPEN IT AND SHOW IT TO EVERYONE BEFORE (IF) HE GIVES IT TO CODY. ALSO KEEP IN MIND HE HAS VERY LITTLE, NEXT TO NO TIME AT ALL, TO SIT DOWN AND WRITE TO EVERYONE. HE IS WORKING ON KEEPING JOURNAL ENTRIES, AND WHEN HE GETS THE CHANCE HE WILL MAIL THOSE HOME TO ME AND I WILL TYPE THEM UP AND POST THEM ON THE BLOG FOR EVERYONE TO READ AND GET AN IDEA OF EVERYTHING HE IS DOING.
Thank you everyone for your support.
Cody's Email: codydsteele@gmail.com
Cody's Address:
AB Steele, Cody D
331 TRS/FLT 578 Dorm B-2
PSC3
1320 Truemper St Unit 369550
Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5570
At 3:42 AM my phone rings. I didn't even realize it but I turned it off in my sleep. Good thing it rang 2 minutes later and I answer half asleep and I hear, "Hey baby, its me. I need you to grab a pen." I instantly jump awake and scramble to turn the light on and find a pen. I ask, "How are you?" and hear back, "I need to give you my address, do you have a pen?" The connection was AWFUL but after about ten minutes of asking, "What? did you say C or D or 3?" and such like things, I got my love's correct address.
I proceed to ask again, "How are you?" and hear nothing back. He then says, "I have another card I need to read to you and then we're done." I say, "Okay." and he proceeds to read a very platonic, straight forward card. It said such things as: "In case of an emergency, contact your nearest Red Cross." and "Do not send gifts, packages, pictures, or anything other than letters in plain clearly posted envelopes." I then said, "Well we already knew all that stuff. Can you tell me how you are?" He didn't respond and it was quiet. I said, "Can you hear me? Or can you not say anything than what's written on that card?" No response then about 5 seconds later he said, "I love you Chelle." This pretty much affirmed my suspicion of his TI (training instructor) standing next to him making sure he stuck to the script. I choked out an, "I love you too baby." and he hung up. It was a 13 minute and 13 second phone call and even though we didn't get to actually "talk" it was so good to hear his voice. First thing this morning I got my pages of letters together and they are awaiting USPS pick-up.
As of right now I can depend only on a few scattered short penned letters but I am praying I get lucky and that his TI eases up in a few weeks and allows his flight to start calling home. We shall see I suppose. He really wants people to just email letters to his email so I can print them weekly and send them all in one envelope. For those people who wish to write him and mail it themselves anyways, here is his address.
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT CODY WILL GET IN TROUBLE AND YELLED AT FOR ANYTHING. DON'T SEND ANYTHING OTHER THAN NORMAL PAPER IN A NORMAL ENVELOPE. IF IT FEELS THICK, HIS TI WILL OPEN IT AND SHOW IT TO EVERYONE BEFORE (IF) HE GIVES IT TO CODY. ALSO KEEP IN MIND HE HAS VERY LITTLE, NEXT TO NO TIME AT ALL, TO SIT DOWN AND WRITE TO EVERYONE. HE IS WORKING ON KEEPING JOURNAL ENTRIES, AND WHEN HE GETS THE CHANCE HE WILL MAIL THOSE HOME TO ME AND I WILL TYPE THEM UP AND POST THEM ON THE BLOG FOR EVERYONE TO READ AND GET AN IDEA OF EVERYTHING HE IS DOING.
Thank you everyone for your support.
Cody's Email: codydsteele@gmail.com
Cody's Address:
AB Steele, Cody D
331 TRS/FLT 578 Dorm B-2
PSC3
1320 Truemper St Unit 369550
Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5570
7.02.2009
Some Sweet June Lovin'
Here are some pictures of our month together in AZ. I am kicking myself for not taking more but I got some good ones. Cody's friend Robby got home from his mission and Cody loved being able to hang out with him tons before leaving. There is one of Cody and Robby after Robby's farewell, one of Cody and Robby at dinner, and one of Cody and Robby shooting guns. There are bunches of Cody with the kids and videos of Cody with Aiden. He loves that kid so much. So here they are. Enjoy!!
7.01.2009
Time for some really late posts
Here I am finally getting around to posting our pictures from Las Vegas. On our way back to AZ we spent 3 days in Vegas and had a blast. The drive from UT to Vegas was gorgeous. The first two pictures are actually from the short drive through AZ. We loved all the buildings and lights on the strip. The buffets, the V variety show, Cody drooling over nice cars, Cody's ginormous long lizard tongue, and so much much more made our trip fantastic, and the pictures are included to give you guys just a small taste. We loved seeing the MGM lions and the sweet aquarium at Mandalay Bay. Cody loved the indoor malls that made it look like we were outside and no matter where we were on the strip, we had Donny and Marie lookin' over everyone. The street performers were creepy yet cool and best of all we finally got to spend time, by ourselves, with no family around, for 3 days. Ha ha anyways... It was a blast! Enjoy lovelies :)
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