Monday, July 31, 2006

T-30, day 42
Marksmanship

Today is Monday and the beginning of "grass week" for recruit Tim. I am sure he is excited as weaponry has always intrigued him. I hope he excels and is pleased with his results.

ON ANOTHER NOTE:
I have often visited MarineParents.com and found a huge resource of information and a definite link to others going through the same emotions as me. It has become a lifeline and direct link to keeping up to date with others, their fears, struggles, tears and even laughter. The information is deep and layered but is well worth the digging. I would encourage every parent, girl friend, boy friend, grandparent, aunt, uncle etc. of a marine recruit or marine to check it out. IT SAVE MY sanity for sure.

Here is a direct link:
http://www.recruitparents.com/forum/default_group.asp

I know that his next 2 weeks are very busy because of Rifle. I gather from the message boards to expect less communication from him.

So in the mean time....

Just keep praying, praying, praying!

Sunday, July 30, 2006

H-5, day 41

As this 7th week begins I am finally more comfortable with Tim's progress. This past week has been very busy and no time has been allowed to trickle by. It helped to be busy. I am sure that Tim is excited about this week, rifle training. This is something he has always wanted to do.

Several people asked about Tim at church today. I even got a card from someone to add to our package of letters for tomorrows mail.

I will keep praying for safety, encouragement and trust in the Lord.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Friday, July, 28, 2006

T-28, Day 39

As we come to a close on another week in phase II, I believe Tim has taken on the resolve to see this through. His letter started out discusted with himself and ended with him proud of his accomplishments. I am glad and relieved that he has risen and taken charge of his decision. I feel I can accept this a lot easier knowing he does not regret his choice.

Today he has the PFT, Thrift savings plan and written test. I am praying for his success, safety and his continued trust in the Lord.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

T-27, Day 38

Individual Photos today. I cannot wait to see what they look like. They probably won't come for a while, but I still am excited.

Tim's letter yesterday started off sad but soon turned very reassuring and even exciting. I am thrilled he finished the obstacle course on the first try. He won in Pugil sticks III. He struggled here two weeks ago. I feel like I can breathe again. It is amazing how something so trivial as a letter can revive an old woman.

It has been a busy, busy day. I felt alive again. Keep those letters coming.

But most of all, just keep praying, praying, praying.

Letter received 07/26/06

Manna from Heaven!!!!

Finally, after 16 day letter drought.

July 14, 2006

Dear Everyone,
Things are difficult. I don't know why but I keep screwing up. My drill is bad and my PT is worse. This week has just flat out sucked! Tuesday, I had the gas chamber. That was probably the most uncomfortable thing I have ever gone through. They use CS gas. They put us in to a small building with our mask on; when they released the gas the effects started immediately. My skin felt like I had a bad sun burn all over my body. We did a few exercises, then they told us to close our eyes and hold our breath and take our mask off. Like an idiot, the first thing I did was open my eyes and take a deep breath. That was a MISTAKE! I could barely breathe. I have never felt anything like that before in my life.

July 16, 2006

I know I don't send many letters, but I have no choice. These last few weeks we have had NO time. In fact, I'm not supposed to be writting now. We have initial drill Tuesday and everyone is on edge. This is a really BIG event. It will be a relief when it is over.

Now to answer some questions...
"What is quarterdecked? and what do you do there?" The quarterdeck is the front part of our squadbay. It is where the DI send people who screw up. They make you do just about every single stationary exercise you can think of and as quick as possible. It tires you out real quick. Now the sand pit is similar to the quarterdeck except its outside and in the sand.

Some of the other things we did this past week is the confidence course and we learned how to choke people.

To mom... I love you very much, keep your chin up because it won't be much longer.

July 20-23, 2006

I know its been a while since I wrote but I had no choice. With Initial drill everything was hectic. To make matters worse we got placed 4th out of 6. That made the drill instructors mad. We just really got over that fall out. I got some more letters from ya'll. Two from Amanda, One from Beka, one from Josh (thanks for the pictures), 4-5 from dad, and quite a few from mom including the recent blog. Yesterday(july 22), was a good day, it started out rough but got better. I completed the entire obstacle course. We were supposed to run three miles but we got stopped because people were passing out. If we had kept the rate I was running I would have been done in 24 minutes. YES, that is 3 miles in 24 minutes NONSTOP. Then we went on to the pugil sticks III where we fought in a camoflage arena and had two recruits pounding the fighters with boxing pads. Guess what? I WON! The guy fell to the ground and I did a bayonet slash to the back of his head. So I had a good day.

Tell Jamie I'm upset that I won't get to see her, but she can send a letter or two if she wants. Just keep in touch. Hey Beka, good luck with the new condo, and same with Josh, Vanessa and Madison, good luck on your move as well. I love you all.

Love,
Tim

P.S. Just so you know, the platoon is in phase II out of III. Also I am a level 4 qualified swimmer.

P.P.S. Night Mom, love you.

Wednesday July 26, 2006

T-26, second clothing issue, day 37

As the week progresses I am longing for a letter but have been comforted thinking that either he has been too busy or has been reading more than writing. Since he isn't much of a book reader, maybe letter reading will plant a seed of enjoyment that I get when reading a book. Our daughters all share my love of a good book, but none of our sons will pick one up unless required by school. One son even cheated and watched the movie rather than read his assigned book. KIDS!

Hopefully, Tim passed his swim qualifications. I am sure he did well, he loves to swim. With this heat we have experienced lately, the water probably feels great.

LETTER ARRIVED! THE NEIGHBORS NOW KNOW I AM NUTS!

My heart is bursting with joy.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

T-25, Day 36
Last day of swim qualification. Let's hope he qualified.

Today's mail has run and still no letter. My concerns have grown as the letter drought continues. My only thought is that maybe with all the flood of mail he received he has used his spare time in reading it all.

I spoke with his recruiter yesterday and he was in agreement that it was unlike Tim to not write back. I am hoping he finds out what the issue is.

Please just keep praying, praying, praying.

Monday, July 24, 2006

T-24 , Day 35
I am sorry about not bloggin yesterday. I am really bummed. No letters in 14 days. I am really concerned. Is he hurt and too scared to tell me? Did he fail the "gas chamber"? What could be the holdup?

Mail came early today, and still no letter.

God give me strength.

Saturday, July 22, 2006

T-23 Day 33

It is Saturday and I desperately hope there is a letter today. We have not had any information since July 10th's letter that came on the 14th. I know it may seem unusual for me to worry about it on such a short amount of time, but militarily time seems to stand still. I know information and mail gets delayed, but I am shriviling up here.

Jamie comes tomorrow and the house is no where near ready. I am busting myself silly trying to get event storage packed and loaded in the car. I learned something new yesterday. This is great. Write it down. When you have a candle that has burned down and stuck in the vessel, freeze it for 30 minutes to an hour. Usually it will fall out once upside down, if not only a gentle pressure will do it. Excess wax build up on sides flake off effortlessly.

It is 3:09pm and still waiting for the mail.

It is 3:15pm and NO LETTER.

I know that mail can be slow, but this is rediculous. I am sure he had time to write this past Sunday. Where could the letter be? Just as our letters are vital and rejuvenating to them, Tim's letters keep me sane.

Please, please, please, just keep praying.

Friday, July 21, 2006

T-22 MCMAP testing and swim qualification

No letters today.

Very emotional day.

I am about to ring his neck.

I know people around the world are praying for him and some have sent notes of encouragment.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

We all need it.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Today has been very busy, and yet Tim is never far from my mind. We had errands to take care of today and didn't get back home until after 4:30 pm.

NO LETTERS!

Ok, I am trying to be patient. It is very difficult. I came home hungry and tired and when there was no letter in the mailbox I bit everyones head off and started boohoo'ing. I think I got to a breaking point.

After that I ate something and jumped into cleaning up and repacking "stuff" from the last event we had. I ironed tablecloths until after 10:00pm. Loaded everything into the car to take to storage tomorrow. We will be taking Andrew, our youngest to get his permit tomorrow. Last one.

Please, just keep praying, praying, praying.
T

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

T-20, Day 30
First day of Swim qualification.

Fully clothed and gear strapped upon their backs, these Marine recruits will learn how to float in adverse conditions. Tim can swim and hopefully my letter will get to him concerning some of the tips and tricks I read about in the Keeping Faith book.

It is 1:18 am, the middle of the night. I am excited because my niece is coming on Sunday with her three little girls. Jamie's husband is Brad and I have wrote about him in previous post. He is currently serving in Iraq. They were stationed in Alaska for 4 years and 2 years ago were transferred to Kentucky. I have seen her once in 7 years. I am so excited. She can relate to the military fears. She has been instrumental in keeping me sane.

3:30 pm no letter.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

AMEN!

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

T-19 Day 29

Initial Drill
Initial Travel
Corps Values

9:52 am

The drill is an area Tim is concerned for. I doubt Tim has issues in this area but that the platoon as a whole has issues. Tim completed 4 years of ROTC and had mastered drill. I feel sure he is one of the strong ones in regards to drill. He has ribbons from ROTC for drill.

His letters indicated the group was having difficulty and of course in the Marines, you are a group not an individual.

Life around home has changed so much since Tim's departure. We are very disconnected when it comes to routine. When it comes to concern for Tim, we are all united. Since Tim begged for more letters in his letter home last week, we have a writing marathon happening between Forrest and myself. Forrest is NOT a letter writer so for this to be happening is a miracle. God is working in all our lives and not just in regards to Tim. He has opened our eyes in many areas. Others needs have become more evident. Others hurts are felt. Where this is leading in our lives, I am not sure yet.

No letters today.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Monday, July 17, 2006

T-18 Marine Corps History VI, Day 28

12:52 am. Can't sleep.

Worried. Confused. Scared. Apprehensive. I'm a mom. This is normal.

I am hoping to get some letters at least one today. I hope they are positive and he made it through the gas chamber ok.

It is 8:30 am and I have been up for a hour or so. I am chipping away at the cleanup duties from this weekends event. Already I have laundry going and the dishwasher is running. As I sat down here to write and to begin my prayer time, I received an email from a friend needing prayer for some strongholds that she needed to rage war on. I am with you there girlfriend. Satan has monopolyzed my thoughts and emotions too much lately. I am praying for victory over depression, anxiety, worry and apathy. Yes, I said I apathy. When depression and anxiety become deep rooted in your soul and mind you become apathetic toward everyday things as appearance, work, home, diet (oooh that one screams) and even my prayer life. The "who cares" syndrome can rob you of joys in every aspect of your life. I refuse to allow Satan to continue this onslaught. God before me, I cannot lose. He is my strong Tower, my refuge and strength.

It is now 9:44.

I just received an email from another friend. Please read.

I want you to know that I am praying for Tim. I know that what he is going through right now is hard..hard for all of you. But it is also vital for developing the Marine that he needs to be. For all the seemingly not necessary things that a DI might do to the young men..there is a reason. It makes the marine that will one day need to lean on instinct not strength. These soldiers have to be able when they graduate to have learned how it is to be cold, hot, tired, hungry, stressed, depressed, and broken. They break these men so they can build them into strong men that have and can endure the worst things and LIVE. This training is what will one day save lives and probably their own life. Being a soldier is not for the faint of heart and our civilian sector for the large part does not and cannot understand what serving our country is about. That is OK. Being a soldier is an extreme sacrifice. For 30 years Jim was a soldier and every day away from that life now is hard for him. He loved serving his country...loves soldiers. If he was asked today to do his life over he would do it the same way...wearing the same uniform..loving the flag and all it stands for. As a soldier you will never be rich..but you will be rewarded in ways that few ever get to be rewarded. You will be away from home and the ones you love often..you will be tired in ways that none of your friends understand..you will suffer loss of friends and fellow soldiers....but in all of that you have a comradery that is rare in today's world. You will be surrounded by other soldiers that "have your back." You will have other soldiers that will pray for and with you when you are scared. They will support each other when needed. Because that is what they learned to do in boot camp and will continue to be trained to do as they grow in the Marines. Nope being a soldier is no picnic..not for the soldier not for his family. It is plain hard ..but the reward...is our freedom. It is standing in a formation of other soldiers and seeing that flag flying over it with battle streamers ...hearing taps...often in a foreign land...crying when you hear the national anthem...it is feeling a pride that almost makes your heart burst from your chest.

Do I know what it is to be a soldier? No but I know what it has been to be a wife of a soldier with young wives that missed their husband's and were afraid for their lives. My husband was the one responsible for making sure he brought those young men home safe each time they were deployed. I know the ache of missing my soldier...I have felt fear in my heart when our men were gone and we knew they were in harms way. I learned to trust God during all of those times and lean on him. I knew that though the men seemed tough that a good majority of them were Christians and prayed daily. I knew that they had been trained to do a mission and do it well. I knew it was hard for them and it certainly was hard on those of us at home waiting for word..waiting for letters...waiting for calls. During those times of deployment I was there as babies were born with dads far away..when family members died. But when those men returned the feeling of watching them march into a gym filled with yellow ribbons and families..listening to a band play as those men march back in and reunite with children..watching fathers see a baby for the first time...those are images that I would not give a million dollars for. They are indelibly printed on my heart. I don't just hear the national anthem..I FEEL IT!

So sweet sister, I am proud of your young Tim. He is dong the hard thing that few are called to do. He is sacrificing all to serve his country. While many of his friends are following a different road he has been chosen to follow a road that will be hard but will build a man that has a different set of values...those of God and country. I am proud of his family...that did not try to talk him out of being a Marine. I know that would be tempting...it is hard to be the family of a Marine. BUT you are prayed for...loved through it and I can not wait for you to tell me how it feels to watch Tim graduate from Boot Camp. That will be a feeling that few feel. I love you Teresa..and your Tim....belongs to all of us..and is at the foot of the cross each day in our prayers. Ruthann.

I really needed this today. Thank you all for your support.
Teresa

P.S. No letter today.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

H-3 (Not sure, I think it stands for holiday, meaning 3rd Sunday)

There is nothing on his training schedule for today. I read in the "Keeping Faith" book, (Frank Schaeffer) that they will drill some but will have a longer relax time today. I am selfish and hope he writes a long letter home. I desperately need to know how the Gas Chamber went. The letters we received on Friday were very soul shattering.

I was successful in making a few family members feel guilty so they would write Tim this weekend. I truly believe if they ever found themselves in a similar situation, Tim would be the first to act on their behalf. Yes, I understand that Tim chose this. That doesn't make it any easier. It is a very intense, stressful and demanding camp. You should support each other during these times. That is what family is all about. I cannot understand how people can have no sympathy for someone who is training to defend the very freedom most people never utilize to the max. Take voting for instance, not even 50% of Americans vote regularly. Hello, crawl out from under your Survivor and American Idol "rock". This world is becoming more and more dangerous. Do you think it is less dangerous now than in the 1950's. Did you know we went from an average of 200,000 yearly recruits to the Marines in the 1940's to around 20,000 a year NOW?

Listening to the TV scares me witless. There is impending dangers in Korea, Iran, Lebanon and Israel, not to mention the battle going on in Iraq. Americans are not there to run roughshod over the Iraqi people, but to help rebuild their country into a country that is self-sufficient with a ruler that is not a murdering dictator. Every human should have the freedom Americans have and that most take for granted. It is NOT a "Bush" thing. It is a freedom thing. A freedom where girls have the same rights to education that boys do. DON'T start. I am NOT a feminist. But, I do know no one should be denied an education, clean water and freedom from tyranny.

We are headed for church. I will probably write more this afternoon.

2:27 pm. I cannot express how much I get support in this trial from fellow church people. Total strangers are praying for Tim on a regular basis. People everywhere come up and ask about him. Some people even have his name written in their Bibles. It is both reassuring and humbling to realize how a single person can affect the lives of so many others. Tim is doing something so noble, so selfless and so vitally important that it just amazes me that my son, my son is one special person. Out of the billions of people in the USA, my son is one of only 20,000 people to step up this year. WOW! Isn't that awesome?

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Saturday, July 15, 2006

T-17 Day 26

Three mile condition March, Marine Corps History IV & V.

It is 8:14 pm and I have had a long day that promises to be longer. No catering, just a rental of equipment. I have to go to the event at 11:00pm to pick up Andrew and the equipment. I am tired. I did all the setup and decorating this morning. My work is nothing compared to what Tim faced today. "Three mile march" means marching fully geared up with 40-70 pounds of gear. He was concerned with this today in his previous letters. I thought of him many times during the day.

It is a very stressful time right now for Tim and us. I have to just remember to keep looking up.

I just keep praying, praying, praying.

Friday July 14, 2006

T-16 Day 25
Marine Corps History III and Leadership

Today, those words above are just letters on a page. I cannot comprehend what they mean. After receiving Tim's two letters today, I have grieved and ranted and raved to family members that have selfishly been too busy and consumed by life's trivial pursuits to write my son a brief letter of encouragement. God forgive me. I just can't fathom why people don't recognize the importance of encouraging another.

I went to the website for parents a few days ago and requested the "parents package" from the USMC. It came with a DVD. This DVD has interviews with other parents of Marine recruits and it has Frank Schaeffer, the author of Keeping Faith, A father-Son Story about Love and The United States Marine Corps. The interview of this author was both much needed and made me desire to read his book ASAP. If you can get your hands on this book prior to your loved one leaving, great, at least get it while they are new to PI (Parris Island). This is a MUST have. I went through exactly the same feelings as this father. Nothing has given me the comfort this book gave me. In caution though, it also opens my eyes to the dangerous potential of suicide in regards to new recruits. My Tim is a mentally strong individual but the rigors these new recruits go through can break a person. Another caution to this book, the language is typical for military, so the faint of heart be forwarned, the F word is used often. Now more than ever, the need to "BATHE" your recruit in prayer is vital and a priority. Don't ever forget to pray for them. It is the backbone these recruits survive on. Next only is letters from home. It should be made mandatory that family should write the recruit daily. It could mean the difference between success and failure.

As I read through this book it is evident my struggles are shared with other parents. Find another group of parents either locally or via blogs and IM's to help keep you sane.

I got this ditty from my grand-daughter Madison. It is a spinoff of Nemo's, "Just keep swimming."

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Letter received 07/14/06 (2)

Dated July 10, 2006

Dear Everyone,
This week has been bad so far. Today has been full of screwups. We lost the flag for being the best platoon during a relay race. That didn't sit too well with the DI's. I have received a few of your letters today and they were VERY helpful. I got the cards from Mom and Amanda. By the way thanks for the picture Amanda. I also received the letters from Mom and Andrew. Mom, I'll try to write more but normally we only get about an hour to square away our gear for the next day and then write letters.

Andrew, I do miss you and having time to hang out with you. When I get back we will hang out.

Beka, you need to get my address and write me, same with Josh and Vanessa. EVERYONE send pictures. They help a lot. I'll write you as soon as I can. I love you all.

Love,
Tim

P.S. Night Mom, I love you.

Letter received 07/14/06 (1)

Dated July 9, 2006

Dear Everyone,
The last few days have been hard. We have screwed up a lot, and payed dearly for it. Just yesterday I got to "play in the sand" because people around me were sleeping and I tried to wake them up during class. I got sent three times in less than an hour. Then we got into trouble because we screwed up the initial drill. The initial drill is bascially a test of the platoons ability to drill. I am not sure but I think we failed. Then today we had to sweep the deck with tiny brushes called scuss brushes. Then we mop the floor with towels, and the entire time our knees are not allowed to touch the deck.

The only inspiration I am running on now comes from God and the letters you write me. So send me a lot of letters, they are very rejuvenating. Mom I was reading the blog you sent me and about broke down into tears when you wrote about Madison asking where I was. I had no idea that I meant so much to you all. Just reading your letters makes me feel special. So mom, dad, Manda, Beka, Josh, Vanessa, Andrew and Martin, write me lots of letters because they help a lot. Pray for me because I have the gas chamber on Tuesday and the three mile hump on saturday, so it is going to be a very hard week. I love you all. Write me a lot, and send pictures.

Love,
USMC Rct. Tim

Thursday July 13, 2006

T-15 Confidence Course, Corps values. Day 24

Tim asked that we pray for him on this training. He is concerned for his success. I have prayed many times and my sunday school class has too.

Rebekah finally sent him a letter. Amanda did last week and she added new pictures of baby Coen. She sent him a letter on Saturday also. Joshua has not had time, or so he says. We send something everyday in hopes that we get something everyday. It isn't happening. If you are a family member and had promised to write Tim, please do so. He is homesick. I hear it in his letters. He says the letters help.

Currently it is 3:17 am. I am awake early again. These long nights are happening regularly.

There are a lot of history classes coming up. I hope he does well. He is almost to the 1/3 way finished. 10 days home will seem very brief.

It is 10:10 am. A friend and prayerful intercessor sent me an email that I want to share.
This is known as the Soldiers Psalm. I put Tim's name in to personalize it and make it real to me and Tim. May the Lord show me now.

Psalm 91 (King James Version)
Psalm 91
1 He (Tim) that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I (Tim) will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
3 Surely he shall deliver thee (Tim) from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
4 He shall cover thee (Tim) with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou (Tim) trust: his truth shall be thy (Tim’s)shield and buckler.
5 Thou (Tim) shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
7 A thousand shall fall at thy(Tim’s) side, and ten thousand at thy (Tim’s) right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee (Tim).
8 Only with thine (Tim) eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my (Tim’s) refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
10 There shall no evil befall thee (Tim), neither shall any plague come nigh thy (Tim’s) dwelling.
11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee (Tim), to keep thee (Tim) in all thy ways.
12 They shall bear thee (Tim) up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
13 Thou (Tim) shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou (Tim) trample under feet.
14 Because he (Tim) hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him (Tim): I will set him (Tim) on high, because he (Tim) hath known my name.
15 He (Tim) shall call upon me, and I will answer him (Tim): I will be with him (Tim) in trouble; I will deliver him (Tim), and honour him (Tim).
16 With long life will I satisfy him (Tim), and shew (Tim) him my salvation.

The conclusion of the email my friend wrote these words.

Ps. 91 is called the Soldier’s Psalm.
We are told that in World War I, the soldiers of the 91st Brigade recited the 91st Psalm daily.
This brigade engaged in three of the war’s bloodiest battles. Other units suffered up to 90% casualties, but the 91st Brigade did not suffer a single combat-related death. God is willing and able to keep His words of covenant promise. Plead God’s Psalm 91 shield daily.
Confidently claim

His
REST, REFUGE, SAFETY, COVERING, FAITHFULNESS, FREEDOM FROM FEAR,
ANGELIC WATCHERS, DELIVERANCE, AND PROTECTION.

PRAYER IS THE WAR. GOD’S WORD IS THE WEAPON.

Remember that Isaiah 55:11 says,
“So will MY WORD be which goes forth from MY MOUTH; it will NOT return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which sent it.”

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

T-14 Counters to strikes, Chokes. Sounds fun. I guess.

I am diligently waiting for a letter with assurance the Gas chamber went ok. His letter stating his concern has ridden shotgun in my brain since the letter came. I hope all went well.

I have made contact with other marine moms, both experienced and newbies. Hopefully I can help them as much as they can help me. I truly believe contact between parents going through the same thing is paramount to my sanity.

It is 6:55 am and again I am up due to unrest.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (King James Version)
1For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
12Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.
13And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

I am back. It is 2:55 pm. I found this website for parents of Marines.

http://parents.marines.com/page/ParentsForm.jsp

Here you can request a parents video, magnets and bumper stickers. Very imformational.

Mail came and no letter. Hopefully there will be tomorrow.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

T-13 Gas Chamber, Pugil Sticks II

God help him.

Give him strength. Protect and guide him.

In Jesus Name. Amen.

It is 6:28 am and I can't lay in bed any longer. When my mind will not shut off, I might as well get up because at that point there is no resting. Lord help, I need you now as never before.

Today I spent almost two hours on the phone with a cousin I haven't spoken to in 26 years. It was such a blessing. I also found out today we have another couple in our sunday school class that has a son going into the Marines this week. Hopefully I can reach out to them.

I have prayed many, many, many times today for Tim. He should feel bathed in God's mercy.

Thanks Tami for your support. I really appreciated the email.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Letter received 07/10/06

This letter was dated 7-7-06

Hi everyone,
I miss all of you. First things first, I'm going to get mom's questions out of the way. Yes, I have gotten in trouble. I've been quarterdecked about 4 times, but it wasn't for anything major. At times when I get tired, I regret my decision to join, or like days like today when everyone screws up and we spend the entire time getting screamed at. Yes, everyone from the charlotte office is in my platoon. No, I haven't cried yet, they don't take too kindly to that. Oh hey, by the way, mom, you can throw away those shoes because they are old and they stink, plus dad has expressed his discomfort in them being there.

Today we did more class and martial arts training. Which I stink at. We also had PT this morning. We ran two miles, a whole lot of push ups and pull ups and crunches along with some other stuff.

Tell Mason and Madison that I said happy birthday and I can't wait to see them. The fourth of July display was awesome the other night. It went on for about 15 minutes. The only problem was we lost a lot of sleep.

I need ya'll to pray for me and the platoon because we have alot of major things coming up, such as the gas chamber, the confidence course, and initial drill plus a few other things. If you can please send me a family picture I can put in my locker. Well I am out of time. It's time for bed so good night, I love you all.

Love,
Tim

P.S. Send me lots of letters, they are very helpful.

Monday July 10, 2006

It is early monday morning. What a weekend!! My feet are still hurting. Through the pain of my feet I still ache in my heart for Tim.

T-12 MCMAP (Marine Corp Martial Arts Program) and UCMJ (Uniform Code Military Justice) Law

In regards to Tim's last letter, maybe he will absorb more instruction in martial arts this time. HAHAHA! I am not sure what the UCMJ is, but I am sure I will research it and find out. I will keep you posted.

From the PS closing on Tim's letter, I gathered he had not received all our letters yet. Boy, is he in for a surprise. I think since we got his address we have sent 17 letters, cards and funny papers(sunday comics). He loves to read the funnies.

For those out there that have not written him yet, shame on you, you promised! He is going through one of the roughest and lonely times in anyones life. Letters from home are look forward to like Christmas as a child. WRITE him! Okay, enough mothering.

It has been almost 48 hours since we receive a letter and I find myself wathcing the street for the mail-lady. Okay so it is like Christmas for me too when I receive a letter. Many of you have written that your children have gone overseas on mission trips and different reasons. Eventually, Tim will have electronic access, but while in basic training he can only have and send letters (snail mail). Never has that term been so true.

God bless and protect our Tim.

Sunday July 9, 2006

Sunday went by in a blur. I had a wedding and reception at Monroe Country Club. It had about 85 guest. It was for a russian family. It required a lot of food. Not that they ate it all, just that they wanted the table to be overloaded. It was. I will post pictures to my website this afternoon.

It did manage to help keep my mind a little distanced from Tim. Not a lot, because he is always in my thoughts. Tim always helps me with the caterings and this is the first one I have done since he's been gone.

Hopefully, Tim rested on this Lord's day. AND he writes home.

Someone is praying you through, as the song goes. I met Allen Asbury the singer that made that song famous in 2002 in Phoenix AZ at a Presidential Prayer Team Gala. He really feels his music.

Please God keep a cloud of protection around Tim. Give me peace. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Letter received 07/08/06

Dear Everyone,

I am in week three and its going alright. Tomorrow is the 4th of July and Parris Island is putting on a massive fireworks show. My senior drill instructor says that it is one of the best in the world. I am really excited because we get to relax tomorrow. On another note the platoon has been drilling alot, as well as getting into trouble. The guys around here are easy to get along with but there are a few goofy ones. Today we did pugil stick fighting. That is the sticks with the foam ends. They put us in flack jackets and football helmets and told us to go at it. Unfortunately I didn't pay close enough attention in the martial arts classes and got my butt kicked. That's something I have to work on. I love you all and I can't wait to see you when I am a Marine.

With Love,
Timothy

PS. Mom, the mailing address for my platoon is on the envelope, please send me lots of letters from everyone.

Saturday, July 8, 2006

T-11 First aid IV, V, & VI. This will be a long day. Hopefully Tim will enjoy the classes.

It is 5:22 am and I cannot sleep. This will be the first weekend that I have a wedding planned that Tim will not be here to assist me with. He is strong in getting things moved and displayed. I will miss his help considerably tomorrow. This will be a Sunday event and it is something I don't normally like to do. This event was originally cancelled and then was rescheduled. This job has the potential to bring several more jobs to the table. I need that right now.

I believe Tim is probably beginning to settle in. If he doesn't write soon I am going to go out of my mind. Our children don't realize the impact of not keeping in touch can have on their parents. I was hoping to hear from Tim yesterday. It has been over a week since a letter came.

Andrew, our youngest son is missing his brother and is constantly looking for ways to fill his day. He has spent a lot of time with his other brother and sisters. That has helped. He also spends a lot of time with Cassey, his girlfriend. I can tell that it is really bothering him that Tim is away. They have been best "buds" since I brought Andrew home from the hospital when he was two days old. Of course they occasionally fight. That is to be expected. But they are like two peas in a pod when it comes to school, play or other activities. They neither look alike nor have the same temperament but best friends all the same. During the summer months when school is out the boys liked to hike or walk through the neighborhood several times a day. When Tim entered the DEP last summer, Andrew often ran with Tim. Tim had to acheive 1.5 miles in less than 13 minutes. His last run before he left was 11.4 minutes.

It is 1:02 pm and I am watching for the postman(postlady?) When will this ever go away.

I have a card on my desk from a friend and I try to read it daily. It says, "Hope lifts us up". I am banking on that.

I never knew that having a loved one in the military during unsettled times could affect a person so much. I know that I have not been as supportive to my niece Jamie as I should have been. Her husband is on his third tour of Iraq. God protect Brad.

Friday, July 7, 2006

T-10 Innoculations. Ooowee, that smarts.

Today it is sunny and hopefully it will reflect my disposition. The rain yesterday was definitely a reflection of my emotional state.

It is now 5:57 pm and mail came. No letter.

Thursday, July 6, 2006

Happy Birthday Mr. President!

Today the mail came early, and still no letter.

T-9, First aid III, Throws and falls. Hmmm. Wonder how you are doing in this class. First aid III is probably boring to you but throws and falls is sort of martial art so you probably are having a blast with that one.

As the days go by I wonder if you miss home or us. Do you have bouts of loneliness? These days have been the hardest almost three weeks of my life. I watch every video I can get my hands on. I check all the USMC websites daily. I hope you are taking full advantage of this opportunity. This is not like sending a child to college, I've done that. There is NO comparison. College kids call home. College kids have email. I think to myself, would I have rathered you to go to college instead? No, not if this is what the Lord wanted you to do.

Forrest, Andrew and I are not used to the quiet. We are getting cabin fever. We try to think up reasons to take a ride. We would take more rides if fuel wasn't so expensive.

Please write soon.

God be with Tim. Guide him, teach him, use him for Your glory. Amen.

Wednesday, July 5, 2006

Today is Marine Corps History II and Terrorism Awareness training.

God help Tim to hear and apply everything in the Terrorism Awareness classes. Help Tim take advantage of this education and acquire superior leadership skills. May this experience not only give Tim the confidence, education and responsibility of an exceptional American citizen but to strengthen his walk and testimony with the Lord.

The days of summer here in the south can be brutal, but more so in the environment Tim is in now. The heat and humidity combined with equipment, physical training and stress can wreak havoc on a person. Please God, protect him.

It is 4:20 pm and the mail has yet to come. Depression is smothering me today. Lord help me. The endless tick of a slow moving clock reminds me how long you will be gone. God forbid your life's clock stops. Please Lord give me strength. Please Lord help me smile again.

It is 6:54 pm, and no letter.

Tuesday, July 4, 2006

Happy fourth of July!





Fireworks are not the same without Tim. His desire for having the biggest BOOM is so contagious.

The mail doesn't run today, so that is bad. Forrest and I went to Daniels house in Mooresville for a picinc supper.

Amanda and Martin had a couple of friends over at their house. Josh and Vanessa did their thing which included Andrew. Rebekah and her friend went to the Kelly Clarkson concert. My children have scattered to the wind.

Lord, thank you that we can celebrate our freedom. Please guide and protect this country. Please protect, guide, comfort and provide Tim with your assurance.

God, Bless the USA.

In God's Hands

Hands!

A basketball in my hands is worth about $19.A basketball in Michael Jordan's hands is worth about $33 million.

It depends whose hands it's in.

A baseball in my hands is worth about $6.A baseball in Mark McGuire's hands is worth $19 million.

It depends on whose hands it's in.

A tennis racket is useless in my hands.A tennis racket in Venus Williams' hands is a championship winning.

It depends whose hands it's in.

A rod in my hands will keep away a wild animal. A rod in Moses' hands will part the mighty sea.

It depends whose hands it's in.

A sling shot in my hands is a kid's toy. A sling shot in David's hand is a mighty weapon.

It depends whose hands it's in.

Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in my hands is a couple of fish sandwiches.Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in God's hands will feed thousands.

It depends whose hands it's in.

Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse.Nails in Jesus Christ's hands will produce salvation for the entire world.

It depends whose hands it's in.

As you see now it depends whose hands it's in.So put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams, your families and your relationships in God's hands because...It depends whose hands it's in.

Author unknown.

Monday, July 3, 2006

Week 3 of boot camp. T-6 Pugil sticks I and First aid II.

First thought, watch your knuckles. Ouch. You should be pretty good at this. You practiced enough at home before the Marines. We still haven't replaced the broken globes on the ceiling fan from your practicing. Hahaha. :)

It is very early in the twilight hours. I can't sleep. It is either stress of bills or Tim's absence keeping me up. I am enjoying doing the blog as it helps me to verbalize and purge my worries and fears. As Christians, I know we should not worry. That is sometimes a tall order for moms.

I hope a letter comes today. I seem to count away the minutes until one arrives. It is 3:25 pm and the postman/lady hasn't come yet. It is the 3rd, so they should be coming.

It is amazing how things you see and do everyday take on a different importance when it affects you personally. I find myself more sensitive to others hurts and longings. It is part of this new work the Lord is walking me through. I wonder how many people that said they would write you, actually will. Sometimes people say one thing and do another. Good lord, you are probably sick of my letters. I send a stack every other day. A letter. A card. The funny paper. A picture. Something to help pass the time.

Stand proud.

We love and pray for you all day.

No letter came today.

Sunday, July 2, 2006

Sundays are good days and bad. Bad, because I think about your "free" time and wonder if you are homesick. I realize that it was also a Sunday when we gave you to the Marines. But also, it is a good day because we have completed week two and it is the day we go to church and our support framework of friends is strong and everyone knows where you are and they inquire about you.

This Sunday is especially more exciting because the church is celebrating the 4th, our country's independence and with that all veterans, now serving or retired wear their uniforms and we honor them as they march into the service. The choir sings a song honoring all branches of military. Is it just me or did they save the best for last? The Marines!! I think the Marines have the best looking uniforms of them all. My heart soars with pride as the choir crescendo to the end. When the service ends it is with us all singing "God Bless America" as a huge American flag is raised behind the choir. It is a moving experience. Not unlike programs we have had before but it is now more moving than ever with Tim serving under "old glory"!

We go to lunch as a group as we do often. You are missed at the table. Josh tries to lighten the mood with his usual silliness. It falls a little short when Tim is not around to give a comeback.

I am praying for you.

Please write more.

Thank you God for keeping him safe this week. Please continue. Please keep your eye on my sparrow.

Saturday, July 1, 2006

As with all family gatherings, when a family member is not present it is felt. Mason's birthday party was a huge success with the only exception being Tim's absence.

I am wondering how Tim's day is shaping up. T-5 Intro to corps values, M1GA2 Preventive maintenance. Sounds interesting. M1GA2 is the gun Tim mentioned in his previous letter. You know the one with "the real bullets". We really had a kick out of that one.

The comfort the letter has given me is substantial. It is a direct link and provides tangible proof that you are ok. Keep them coming. I am tempted to beat the postman when she fails to produce one.

I still wonder about your day and how long you actually train in a 24 hour period. Is it like a 8-hour day or more?

I still haven't been able to move your sneakers out of the den. It is a sign to me of something temporal and you will soon get them, Daddy thinks I'm nuts. Oh well, crazy me, he just better not touch them yet. I'll move them when I am ready.

Be strong. Be observant. Be brave. Be a beacon to your team. We love you and are very proud.

Letter received 06/30/06

Dear Mom, Dad, Andrew and the rest of the *** and *** family:

I am doing fairly well in training. It's a hard life but I am adjusting to it. Tomorrow we start our training. The last week we have been going through processing and getting our gear. Tell Andrew that I've been doing drill with a real M1GA2 that can actually fire bullets. I know that God is watching over me in this, because I can feel his presence. I went to church on Sunday and just about started crying by how moved I was. Mom and Dad, I think I am going to graduate on time because I have been able to handle everything they've thrown at me so far. I have to go because we don't have much time to write but I love you all.

With much love,
Tim

P.S. Mom make sure everyone sees this.