and he is off...

Christian left yesterday morning.. most of you got the email saying he is in SC and doing well.  He says the open bays are not the best for sleeping.  He is in a huge room with about 200 other men (many of whom snore) and trying to keep from going insane.  He says SC is hot and the base is in the middle of nowhere.  He tries to rationalize it by saying that the Army did it so they could have men and women focus on their mission instead of other things.  Christian even said the  center of base where there stores are is over 35 minutes away from where they are.  

Christian went to church this morning and said there were only 6 people there.  Only more of a sign that he is needed in Afghanistan to not only serve his country but to serve God.

He has been given several uniforms already and will get more in SC.  Right now he is wearing Navy desert camis but may have to wear Army ones over there.  He is going to be on an army base augmenting them as they are drawn to their limit.  I told Christian all these uniforms will be great for our kids to dress up in some day...the Pedrick kids used to dress up in Big Lou's uniforms from his time in Vietnam!  We used to have a blast with those things!

He has some time today to relax and will surely call his dad on his 5_ birthday... I know what it is, but I won't tell!  

Christian is ready to get off to his duty overseas and anxious to start the clock on this time there.  We are doing our best to both use this experience as a blessing. 

Thanks for everyone who has called and emailed.  It has been a huge source of comfort to me.

I came home to many calls yesterday and it was awesome.  My phone died by mid-afternoon!

Emily and Brian kept me busy with a 2 hour video phone call from Italy and Katie and Mike took care of me for dinner.  

I look forward to hearing from Christian in the next few weeks while he is SC.  I will be sure to fill you all in on how he is doing.  Keep praying for us and know that we are grateful for all of you!