Thursday, August 31, 2006

Thursday August 31, 2006

T-57, day 73

13 days until family day.

Day two of the Crucible. As thunderstorms that have nothing to do with Ernesto rattle our home I realize what little sleep Tim got last night, was in a tent and probably leaks. Well the thunder and lightening is getting bad. I am going to have to sign off and come back later.

Ok. The storms have gone on almost all day. I posted a message earlier to one of the message boards, it is a message board for another company of recruits. I am helping this company set up a prayer vigil. It helped me to write about Tim and get my mind off Ernesto. Here is the post.

Our son is Tim. He is in Bravo company and currently on his crucible. The storm is supposedly running north of the island but this momma has still had the anxious moments.Tim is the fourth of our five children. The only one ever planned! Being pregnant with Tim was perfect, no problems. He came into this world just shy of 10 lbs, with bright red hair and a temperment totally opposite. He was the calmest, sweetest baby and remains so to this day. He has a caring spirit and has always been selfless. He once asked his dad to not spank his little brother when his lil' brother had been bad, he actually told his dad to spank him. Tim never wanted to see anyone hurt or suffering. His kindness is very much an awakening to those around him. Tim was our snuggler, and believe me he doesn't care who know this. His favorite pasttime is curling up on the couch and watch something sci-fi or battle film. Grab an afghan and just make it a family affair. Hot cocoa, popcorn and a good movie, and you have made his day.

Tim has wanted to be a Marine for many many years, but after 9/11 his determination never faltered. He joined the DEP program after his junior year. He graduated June 12, 2006 on a Monday and left for bootcamp on fathers day, June 18, 2006. He graduates September 15, 2006. We could not be prouder of him.

Tim has two sisters and two brothers and all have been active in sending him cards and praying for him often. If anything is for sure and if the rumor is true that if you get lots of mail, you'll pay for it by doing PT. Well, Tim now loves PT, because he still asks for more letters and pictures. He complains when he only get 2-3 a day. When you compare it to how many we have from him, ITS JUST NOT FAIR, I tell you. We have 13 letter from him. I sent that many to him the first day we got his "form" letter.

Tim is a Christian and is very active in teaching sunday school in the 3 year old class. They miss Mr. Tim badly.

Girlfiends have come and gone, but Tim said that is ok, he wanted to do this first and then find the right girl. Ok, count to graduation.....13 days....the momma wants more grandbabies!

We can not wait to see that beautiful smile and red head.

Thanks for allowing me to post in this thread it really helped to get my mind off the crucible. Even if you are a believing, praying individual, getting through this crucible is harder on me than child birth. Thank GOD my child birthing was never 54 hours!!
Teresa
Proud Momma of Tim
Charlotte, NC

Wednesday, August 30, 2006

T-56, day 72

First day of crucible. Note the schedule change. The crucible will now be from Wednesday-Friday at Parris Island.

As I headed to work this morning, all I could think about was the crucible and Ernesto. It nearly crippled me with fear. After being up most of the night, praying, reading and walking it was all I could do to focus and drive. Then it came to me...This is what our recruits are feeling. I am reading Beth Moores book on breaking free from spiritual strongholds, and the very part I read about last night, I was experiencing today.

From the book...A stronghold is anything that exalts itself in our minds, "pretending" to be bigger or more powerful than our GOD. It steals much of our focus and causes us to feel overpowered. Controlled. Mastered. Whether the stronghold is an addiction, unforgiveness toward a person who has hurt us, or despair over a loss, it is something that consumes so much of our emotional and mental energy that abundant life is strangled--our callings remain largely unfulfilled and our believing lives are virtually ineffective. Needless to say, these are the enemy's precise goals.

WOW!

We are one with Christ. Why am I allowing the enemy to rob me of my joy? The Bible tells us, God will not put on us more than we can bear. OK.So, our recruits can bear the crucible. God has them in his hands. He holds the world. Just think of what these recruits will have endured. The Crucible is their passage to becoming a Marine. The crucible during a hurricane is their passage into becoming tried, and tested Christians that hold the title of a US Marine. GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL!

Father, forgive my unbelief of your encompassing arms. Thanks you for victory. Thank you for reminding me of your power and your presence. Please wrap your arms around our loved ones and hug them until they feel your presence too. Warm their hearts with calmness. We thank you and we praise your Holy Name. Bless the Drill Instructors and families. In Jesus name, AMEN!

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Monday, August 28, 2006

Monday, August 28, 2006

T-54, Day 70

17 days until family day.

Well its Monday again and I found no spare time to blog over the weekend. I had meetings with clients, church and grandchildren etc. to contend with. I guess busy is a good thing. I have probably booked the client from Saturday. I will hear this morning.

Tim will have his Final PFT's this morning. My prayers are with him. When you go to bed tonight, please pray for him as he will be awakened at a litte after midnight to prepare to leave at 2:00am for the Crucible. The Crucible is the Marines ultimate test of endurance for a recruit. You MUST complete to become a Marine.

Well, as you may know by now, the crucible has been delayed by a day. It will begin on Wednesday. Also, if Ernesto comes as predicted, they will evacuate and Tim's graduation might be delayed. We will hurry-up and wait.

And the client from saturday is now getting married in Miami. When it rains it pours. Such is my life.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Thursday, August 24, 2006

Thursday, August 24, 2006

T-51, day 66

20 days until family day.....

As I sit here, again at 3:50 am, evidently with no sleep forthcoming, excitement, new business and anxiety is robbing me of the needed rest. It feels like time is moving faster with Tim's graduation becoming imminent. His letter yesterday hinted at a couple of things that I picked up on. One, he hasn't received his dad's new newsletter, which if he wrote on Sunday, he probably wouldn't have received it yet as it was mailed on Thursday. He is still located on the training field barracks and will be returning to his normal barracks this weekend. From the various message boards I post to, there are several who have said mail tends to slow both incoming and outgoing because the recruits are very busy and mail has an extra processing time when they are not in normal barracks. I hope this changes when they move back to regular!!!

Training today will involve....

Day/night movement skills and detection
Rappelling
sand flea warfare(my thought)

I sent Tim a quick note Tuesday with a few of Sundays pictures inside. We went to lunch with Grandmaw and Grampaw at Harbor Inn. Tim loves their food. Many family members were there. Carol, Steve, Ethan, Andrew, Cassie, Josh, Vanessa, Madison, Grandmaw, Grandpaw, Forrest and myself. There was an empty seat where Tim would have sat. I got pictures of the seat and each person in attendance. Also, Andrew took a really good picture of his Shrimp dinner, which of course that would have been what Tim would have chosen. Josh and Madison both had very candid funny shots of the hush puppies hanging from their mouths. All these pictures I had done up in color and sent to Tim. He said he wanted pictures. Well he go 'em.
Cassie also posed for a cute shot in Andrews fire helmet and Madison had a couple of makeup application pictures he is sure to laugh at.



There is not ever a family gathering where Tim is not missed or not discussed. Everyone has been so supportive and constantly inquires about his progress. I just really wish he would give more details in his letters. Sometimes the letters are so vague and other times he pounces on a typical Tim topic and you can imagine him talking about it.

Well, I think I am getting drowsy finally. Of course it is almost time to get up and get ready for work. But I will try to sneak in a little shut-eye.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Letter received 08/23/06

Hello Everyone
How are things going? We just finished up team week and we had our company inspection yesterday. We don't really know how it went but I think we did good. I got to put on my uniform for the first time. It made me feel proud. We are getting ready to start basic warrior training, and that will go on all week. Then next week we move back to our original barracks, we will do our final PFT's. The day after the PFT's, we start the crucible. That goes for about 2 days and six hours. When we get back we get a steak and egg breakfast. That's just about everything I know about our schedule so far. Tell dad to send more of his news letters and put a lot of pictures in it. I enjoy those a lot. Well that's all I've got for right now, so talk to you later.

Love
Tim

P.S. Night mom, love you.

X

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

T-50, day 65

less than 21 days till we see him run the moto run.

I am so excited I find myself totally distracted. Today is Wednesday, and for the last two weeks we have gotten our letters from Tim on wednesday. I hope today brings a new one.

Range estimation exam
Unknown distance firing exam
Field Protection

This week is extreme outdoor activities. Tim enjoys camping so this should be a fun exercise for him. We will see how well he has enjoyed it in next weeks letters. The only time he still finds to write is Sundays. Except of course for the VERY brief note we got this Monday about graduation.

We have church tonight and look forward to hearing what the Lord has for us.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

T-49, day 64

22 days until family day!

This time seems to be going faster and has taken on the excitement of an extrodinary event. Many family members are coming to the graduation and possibly a few friends.

This week in BWT, they are practicing field firing which involves moving targets and rappelling. Today is daylight target detection and 36 yard zero.

Here is the actual schedule for today...

Training Day 49 (Tuesday)
Low Light Firing (A-line)
Firing with Gas Mask (A-line)
Firing at Moving Targets (A-line)
Night Firing (A-line)

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Monday, August 21, 2006

Letter received 08/21/06

Hey....can't talk long, I'm getting ready for a major inspection. Here is some info and a pass to get on base for family and graduation day.

Love
Tim

P.S. night love mom

Monday, August, 21, 2006

T-48, day63

23 days until family day.

This is Basic Trained Warrior week and Tim will be perfecting 40' repelling (as if from a helicopter) off a tower, nighttime and daytime target detection, distance evaluation, field distance exam with gas mask on, combat endurance course and lots of PT.

This week has the feel of bootcamp winding down. I believe Tim is confident in his completing the course and becoming a US Marine. I am so proud and tickled that he is doing what he set out to do.

Whattayah know....got my graduation packet in the mail today. Yippee Skippee! only 23 days to go. And it isn't even Thursday!!

Whew! I can almost see the light.......

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Friday, August 18, 2006

Prayer Vigil Spreadsheet

Here is the spreadsheet as it stands now.

OKHere is what I have so far.
Date Prayer Warrior MarineParents handle Recruits Name Platoon
29-Aug-06
8/29/06 2:00 Teresa tearose Timothy 1072
8/29/06 3:00 Leisa beadu2it Tyler 1074
8/29/06 4:00 Leisa beadu2it Tyler 1074
8/29/06 5:00 Leisa beadu2it Tyler 1074
Kim rod14 Rodney 1072
8/29/06 6:00 Alan B Friend Tim 1072
Tim and Carrie andrewspmm Andrew 1074
eaglesnest Josh 1072
8/29/06 7:00 Kay lktlpn2006 Lori 4031
8/29/06 8:00 Kaite BillsBest18 Bill 1073
8/29/06 9:00 Kay lktlpn2006 Lori 4031
Doreen BKRfamily Brian 1074
Della Bubbas Mom 51 Lonnie 1072
8/29/06 10:00 Jennifer W Friend of tearoseTimothy 1072
8/29/06 11:00 Joyce C Friend of tearose Timothy 1072
8/29/06 12:00 Denise BillsMom Bill 1073
8/29/06 13:00 Victor MC SO MarineDad Misher 1072
8/29/06 14:00 Belinda Donnsmom Donn 1076
8/29/06 15:00 Michelle Momofsoldier39 Adam 1076
8/29/06 16:00 Laura T Friend of tearose Timothy 1072
8/29/06 17:00 Billy br1958 Kyle 1072
8/29/06 18:00 MyLinda Friend of tearose Timothy 1072
8/29/06 19:00 Margie & Len wehave8 Jesse 1073
8/29/06 20:00 Leslie lesgreg LJ 1077
8/29/06 21:00 Janie Janie Carswell 1078
Becky Blazmom Ryan 1094
8/29/06 22:00 Sandra M Friend of tearose Tim 1072
Janie's mom Carswell's Grandmother Carswell 1078
8/29/06 23:00 Lucy lucybr459 Ryan 1073
8/30/06 0:00
8/30/06 1:00
8/30/06 2:00 Teresa tearose Timothy 1072
8/30/06 3:00 Belinda Donnsmom Donn 1076
8/30/06 4:00 Belinda Donnsmom Donn 1076
8/30/06 5:00 Kim rod14 Rodney 1072
8/30/06 6:00 eaglesnest Josh 1074
8/30/06 7:00 Kay lktlpn2006 Lori 4031
8/30/06 8:00 Kaite BillsBest18 Bill 1073
8/30/06 9:00 Kay lktlpn2006 Lori 4031
8/30/06 10:00 Jewel justmejewels Alex 1076
8/30/06 11:00
8/30/06 12:00 Denise BillsMom Bill 1073
8/30/06 13:00 Victor MC SO MarineDad Misher 1072
8/30/06 14:00 Sheila shlvpmm Phillip 1078
8/30/06 15:00 Michelle Momofsoldier39 Adam 1076
8/30/06 16:00 Laura T Friend of tearose N/A N/A
8/30/06 17:00 Billy br1958 Kyle 1072
8/30/06 18:00 Jerri ghettosmom David 1074
8/30/06 19:00 Margie & Len wehave8 Jesse 1073
8/30/06 20:00 Leslie lesgreg LJ 1077
Tiffany trickyrixie87 Tim 1073
8/30/06 21:00 Janie Janie Carswell 1078
Jane Brooksidejane Jacob 1072
8/30/06 22:00 Janie's mom Carswell's grandmother Carswell 1078
8/30/06 23:00 Lucy lucybr459 Ryan 1073
8/31/06 0:00
8/31/06 1:00
8/31/06 2:00 Teresa tearose Timothy 1072
8/31/06 3:00
8/31/06 4:00 Belinda Donnsmom Donn 1076
8/31/06 5:00 Kay lktlpn2006 Lori 4031
8/31/06 6:00 eaglesnest Josh 1074
8/31/06 7:00 Kay lktlpn2006 Lori 4031
8/31/06 8:00 Kaite BillsBest18 Bill 1073

This is up to date as of 5:00pm Saturday 8/19/06

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Letter received 08/17/06 To Andrew

Dear Andrew,
Just had some extra time and thought maybe I should write you. This is the second letter I have written today. I just thought that since all my other letters rarely include you in them, I would write you a letter just for you. Well, as you will soon find out, I qualified as a marksman with the M16. I probably could have done better but I got a little careless at the 200 yard line. That's all right because I picked up the slack at the 300 and 500 yard lines. Well anyway, today we went to the Parris Island Marine Corps Museum. It was freaking COOL. They had Marine Corps uniforms from something like 1850 all the way to present day. They also had a video showing everything we have to go through on Parris Island. The best part was the gift shop where they have a lot of cool things. I plan on taking ya'll there when you get here on family day. I noticed that school will be starting soon. Have you gone school shopping? Are you excited about your Senior Year? Have you got your schedule yet? If you get a chance write me and tell me about how your first day went. I'd like to know how the ROTC unit is doing. Oh yeah, tell Ms. Bonaro that I will be coming to see her after I graduate. That will be in about a little less than five weeks. Well I have to go to bed. Good Night.

Love,
Tim

Thursday, August 17, 2006

T-45, day 59

27 days until family day.

Today I start a new job and I am not sure if I am happy, excited or just scared because my nerve are a tight wire and I feel like I am going to throw up. I just wish I could continue to stay here and work on my own business but it is too new of a company and cannot support paying me a salary.

Our new letter from Tim has all the earmarks of our old Tim. The reference to Wendy's brought a big smile to my face. Before bootcamp, a Wendy's triple classic combo was his favorite. I could never believe anyone could put away that huge sandwich, but he did everytime in about 4 bites. I cannot wait to see how trim he is. Today and tomorrow they take platoon pictures and do travel arrangements. Of course this is team week, so he is still busting his behind doing that. I wonder if it will make any difference in home chores?.....

The prayer vigil is coming along. Most timeslots have been assigned. It is truly amazing the responses I have gotten.

The company commander inspection is this Saturday. This is important, according to his letter. I await the results.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Letter received 08/16/06

Hey Everyone,
How are things going at home? I've sort of been out of the loop since dad stopped sending me his newsletters. I enjoy those alot, especially the pictures, they make me feel closer to home.

Well its time for what you have been waiting for. The good news, I qualified. The bad news is that I only qualified as a marksman, which is the lowest level of qualification. But, it makes no difference because I can still shoot an enemy target in the head from 500 meters.

We are starting team week and that means we are either, cleaning for the Battalion Commander Inspection, doing various jobs around base or getting dental appointments. I might have to have my molars pulled. The good news is, as of today, I have only 31 days left. That means, one month left until I come home. I can't wait to see you.

Madison, thank you for that beautiful picture you sent me. I am going to hang it up in my locker for everyone to see.

We don't have very many things left to do here, but they are some of the MOST important. We have the inspections coming up, as well as the crucible. We have final drill and a 171 question test towards the end of training. After that, we have liberty sunday the week of graduation.(EXPECT A PHONE CALL HOME) The rest of the week we will be practicing for graduation and packing up. Oh yeah, to answer your question, yes I will be riding home with you after graduation, and I would like to leave as quick as possible. I NEED some grease food, so can we stop at TacoBell or McDonalds or Wendy's or something? Well I got to go. I love you all. Keep safe. Can't wait to see you.

Love
Timothy XXX

P.S. Dad, keep sending your news letters. I really enjoy those. And send lots of pictures.

P.P.S. Please send envelopes, stamps and a phone card for liberty sunday.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

T-44, day 58

28 days until family day.....

I have now been up two hours and cannot seem to find peace. I am praying for Tim. I am not sure if I am unsettled about Tim, the new job or life in general. This is team week for Tim. It is a week packed with "chores" duty around base. Tim could be in the kitchen, grounds keep or laundry detail. Of course he had plenty of training around here. He should be proficient wherever they stick him.

This week involves 16-18 hour days doing miscellaneous jobs around the base. I guess this is essential to "making a Marine".

Their platoon photo will be taken on Thursday.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

T-43, day 57

29 days........

Oh time just crawls by as I await another letter. How families in Viet Nam, Korea, WWII ever survive the waiting game with the US Postal service, I do not know. This has been an eternal waiting game... I know, I know, I'm complaining and grouchy. This is so hard.

It is exactly one month until we bring Tim home.

I must focus on living....I must....I'm trying.....really, I am.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

Sunday, August 13, 2006

H-7, Day 55

31 days till family day

As this day dawns, I find myself focused on graduation and not training. I am not sure yet if that is good or bad. I feel like I should still be interceeding on his behalf for the even minor training practices. I guess I just answered my own unasked question. I should STILL be concerned and prayerful for every aspect of Tim training. It is just very difficult to do when the prospect of seeing him again soon. The whole ordeal has been a very thought robbing process that has crippled my normal life and functions. I can't seem to do anything that is the norm without getting sidetracked or totally derailed. I am firm in believing that is probably best I was out of work during this time because of my lack of concentration, I would have probably been fired.

The days cannot move fast enough toward September 14. I know I shouldn't wish my life away but it is hard to not wish the days moved faster.

Lord, help me to enjoy this time. Teach me thy ways. Bless Tim, give him knowledge and wisdom and help him to focus. Give him rest. Help him to do his best for Your Glory! In Jesus Name, Amen.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Friday, August 11, 2006

Friday, August 11, 2006

T-40, day 53

33 days to go and counting backwards.....

Tim has been on my mind ALL day today. Today was rifle qualifications day. I have prayed so many times today. I pray he has qualified as a "EXPERT".

I was hoping he would get a really good score and get to make a call home. NSL (no such luck)

Tomorrow, Saturday, is a ten mile condition march. There will also be small unit leader

Just leep praying, praying, praying.

Thursday, August 10, 2006

Thursday, August 10, 2006

T-39, Day 52

Family day is getting closer....34 days

It is one of those days where "the fear of the unknown" rattles your often peaceful existence. I awake this morning in a "letter received" euphoria to realize the radio is discussing a "CODE RED" level for homeland security. The fear of this has been the root of ALL my concerns for Tim and his role in a military career. I just realized, last night at church the preacher talked about faith and believing the promise of God. I NOW KNOW, God sent that message to empower me for the next phase we will be going through. What this alert means is still unclear, but what is clear is...

Jeremiah 29:11
11 For 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.


That is my promise from God. I will cling to it and trust Him.

Where will Tim be in six months....Right where God wants him.

For EVERYTHING there is a reason.

Ecclesiates

3To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. 13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.
15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.

How can I NOT trust God.

For all this, there is a reason.

Thank you Lord for your divine love and help. Praise your Holy Name!
In JESUS Name,
Amen.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Letter received 08/09/06

August 5, 2006

Hey everyone,
I am writing to you from the rifle range. It is day 35(training days) (halfway point) and we have spent the last week learning how to shoot our rifles. This monday we will start firing. We spend the entire day out on the range. It averages about anywhere from 95-110 degrees on the range. It's HOT.

Oh yeah, tell Amanda where I am at right now I could hop in a boat at the shore and be at Hilton Head within a few minutes.

This letter is being written on two different days. I didn't get to finish last night. This morning was not good. We started out good but we went to drill and screwed up bad. We made the senior DI angry. He sent us to the sand pit and then brought us back to the squadbay. He hasn't spoken to us since he went into his office. On a good note, we have the best PMI (primary marksman instructor) on the range. He makes learning about shooting fun and takes your mind off the heat. By the way I just found out that the hottest its been down here at the range was 112 degrees. OUCH! But anyways, I was getting used to the heat. It doesn't bother me too much. Now back to the PMI. He is not a drill instructor, in fact he never wants to be a drill instructor. He is pretty layed back. As soon as everything gets done we sit around and talk about everything.

I really miss you right now. I wish it was family day so I could see you. Shoot, I would settle for a phone call home just so I could hear your voice. Please write soon.

Love,
Tim

P.S. Night Mom, I love you.

Form letter received 08/09/06

Tim's responses in red

Dear Tim:

This is a form letter for you to fill in and return in the self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Do you regret your decision? No _X__ Yes____, If yes, why? ________________
Are you getting enough to eat? No ____ Yes __X__
Are you eating vegetables yet? No __X__ Yes ____
How much sleep do you get each night?_____8 HOURS_______________________
What is your favorite meal there?_SATURDAY, HOT DOGS AND CHEESE FRIES____
Do you miss us? No ____ Yes _XXXXX___
Do you pray everyday? No ____ Yes _X___
Do you enjoy reading the blog? No ____ Yes __X__ If no, what do you not like?
Are you getting enough mail? No _X___ Yes ____ NEVER CAN GET ENOUGH
Do you need stamps? No ____ Yes __X__
Do the labels help save you time? No ____ Yes _X___
Do you need more ziplock bags? No ____ Yes __X__ How many? __5-6___
Do you need bandaids? No __X__ Yes ____
Do you need coughdrops? No __X__ Yes ____
What can we do for you here?__SEND POWER BARS AND POWDERED GATORADE____
When is your favorite part of the day? _SQUARE AWAY_______________________
What is you favorite day of the week? _SUNDAY, IT IS A RELAXING DAY________
Are you on target to graduate on 9/15? No ____ Yes __X__
Have we done anything to embarrass you there yet? No ____ Yes _X___ What?
_THE DI'S FLIPPED WHEN THEY SAW DADS NEWSLETTERS. DON'T WORRY I ENJOY THEM_
Is there something you would like us to send? _SEE # 15______________________
What do you want for your 1st meal home? _LEMON PEPPER CHICKEN, MACARONI AND CHEESE AND FRIED OKRA________________
Would you mind if the family coordinate our shirts to wear at your graduation? No _X___ Yes ____
What is the first thing you want to do when you get home? ­_PLAY A GAME, EAT A GOOD MEAL TAKE A LONG SHOWER AND SLEEP 12 HOURS____
Are we sending too much mail? No _X___ Yes ____
Are you excited about graduating? No ____ Yes __X__
Do you realize I pray for you all day long?, night too? No ____ Yes __X__

Love always
Mom
P.S. Good night Tim, I love you!

Wednesday, August 9, 2006

T-38, day 51

35 days until family day!!!

I cannot believe it is only Wednesday. The weeks and days sometime ccrraawwlll by.

Family day cannot come fast enough. I am so excited about seeing Tim again and learning everything his experience at bootcamp has captured. I just want to see my Marine!!

I want to hear his voice. I want to see his face. I want to see the new man. He is my son. I want to feel his pride in himself.

The Lord continues to do mighty things in our lives. I see more and more the Lord's hand in Tim's life.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Tuesday, August 8, 2006

T-37, day 50

36 days until family day.

The response to a prayer vigil for the upcoming Crucible has been amazing. As best as I can tell the crucible will be August 29, 30 and 31. The recruits day will begin around 2:00 am on Tuesday the 29th and conclude at 8:00am on Thursday the 31st. They will cover 40 miles in exhausting circumstances, very limited sleep and only 3 meals. At the conlcusion will be the famed "warriors breakfast".

I cannot emphasize the importance of praying NOW for the preparation of each of these recruits. Their training and ultimately their fitness both physically and mentally will be key to their success during this event. So to wait until the crucible to pray would be like worrying about cows already loose. Fences need maintenance in order to keep cows corraled. Our recruits need maintenance prayer in order to sustain the trials that come their way.

It has become the "norm" to get letters on Thursday exactly 4 days from sundays and the most opportunity the recruits have for writting. I did send Tim a "form" letter last week. Hopefully he will fill it out and send it back soon.

Just keep praying, praying, praying.

Monday, August 07, 2006

Monday, August 7, 2006

T-36, Day 49

37 days until FAMILY Day!

The crucible is fast approaching for our recruits, a little over four weeks from now.

I am organizing a prayer vigil for the recruits scheduled to graduate September 15, 2006. The crucible is the defining moment for every recruit and it is an exhausting and difficult culmination of weeks of very intense training. The chance of a failure and/or injury is great. We as parents will most assuredly be worried. We can pray for them. There may very well be some that are dropped or injured but God has a plan and knows what he is doing. But we can still tug on God's ear for protection and guidance. While researching for this I ran across this poem/prayer. The author is unknown.

When you awoke this morning to begin the crucible,
Did you know I walked every step with you that was possible?
When you humped all those miles over rough terrain, Did you know I was by your side again?When your rations were low and your belly was hungry, Did you know that I wished it wasn't you but instead it was me?
When your feet ached and blistered from stress, Did you know that I was carrying you deep in my chest?
When you were tired and sore and almost ready to fall, Did you realize I would have carried it all?
When you had little sleep and your eyes were red, Did you know I would have given you my bed?
When you had to push and pull for that extra mile, Did you know that I was so proud and so tall, with such a big smile?
When you went to bootcamp, I went to one too, It's the one where mom's worry over all you go through.
I couldn't eat dessert, knowing that you had no treats, I felt guilty for wanting a pedicure, when you had tired feet.
I anguished over ever tough moment, I thought you had; I cried when I missed you, I cried when I was sad.
I cried over your letters, that declared your love for "Mom".
I cried over thinking about the day you would come home.
I cringed if I thought someone was yelling at you, Even though I knew it's what they had to do.
I lost sleep just wondering how you are, I prayed and thought and even wished upon a star.
Now your almost through and soon you will be One of The Few The Proud, a New MARINE.
I get an Honor too for going through the bootcamp for Mom's.
I get to hug you and hold you in my arms.
I get to see how handsome you really are. I get my bright shining star.
No I don't get a medal or a pin to wear. I don't get to sport that awesome Marine Hair.
My reward is one that can't be seen. It's called "Being the Mom of a U.S. Marine."
Author unknown

Sunday, August 06, 2006

Sunday, August 6, 2006

H6, Day 48

Today is Sunday. It is 4:43 am and I cannot sleep. Allergies are bothering me. Bills, jobs and stuff are playing a factor. Top all that with Tim being gone, and we have a perfect recipe for a mom over the edge. That would be me.

The house is quiet except for the resonating snore of a certain sleeping Papa upstairs. The refrigerator is also, buzzing. You never realize how noisy things are until you try to sleep or at least get sleepy. I can only imagine how bad this will be once Tim is deployed. I only hope that the lines of communication are more open. This total lack of phone, email or in person contact has got to be the longest days of my life.

Josh, our oldest boy, who is a firefighter answered a call yesterday in which it was a single car wreck and the car had been traveling at over 110 miles an hour. Single occupant. The car was starting to burn when the firetrucks got there. As my son pulled up as second on the scene, he realized there was a person trapped inside the burning car. His heart sank as the realization dawned of the prospect of this individuals surviving. He did not. They got the fire out after about 10-15 minutes. It took almost an hour to get the driver out. He was heavily injured. I think it really hit me how dangerous Joshuas job is. I also realized how much these scenes effect Josh. I can only imagine how Josh is sleeping tonight. God Bless him and give him peace.

With it being Sunday I am excited that this is the day Tim will write our next letter. It tends to be the only day he gets a chance. That of course means a Thursday or Friday delivery, depending on how fast he gets them mailed. :)

I wonder if he realizes the extreme impact this has had on the entire family? Even his married siblings have had major changes to their everyday life. We all worry. WE ALL PRAY!

I just keep praying, praying, praying.

Friday, August 04, 2006

Friday, August 4, 2006



T-34, Day 46, 41 days till family day.

Things are definitely looking up. Tim's letter has motivated and inspired me. I feel sooo much better about his training and his general outlook on bootcamp and continuing on to the finish. The transformation happening right before our eyes in his letters is unbelievable. His pride and confidence radiates in every written word. His penmanship has even taken on a prouder posture.

The matrix only shows limited things on each days schedule. The amount of training the recruits go through during this week and next is huge. They record every shot, every action, every result. It is time consuming and precisely documented. I cannot believe my son who detest anything to do with academics is having to write out every second and every detail he does with his gun. The gun part he probably revels in the priviledge of playing with a powerful weapon. The documenting, shooting results and scoring is most likely frustrating him when he would rather just shoot. Patience. Hmmmm.

I cannot imagine Tim as a well groomed, physically buff, loud talking Marine. It will be a sight to behold. Not that Tim is fat or slouchy, just he didn't let a forgotten belt, or button missing ever slow his wearing an article of clothing. It wasn't that critical to him.

There could not be all this change without several key factors. First and foremost is the Lord's blessing and guidance. His awesome power, strength and love has been so evident throughout this whole ordeal. Second, is the United States Marine Corps and their successful recruit training program and the dedicated Drill Instructors and Senior Drill Instructors. Third, is the dedication, resolve and commitment Tim has always dreamed of achieving. His desire for total success in something he can excel at has always played a determining factor in his enlistment. He wanted something special and different than just a everyday job. I know he has found it. I am so proud of his success but I am prouder yet of his pride in himself. That warms this mothers heart.

Lord, bless and keep Tim. Help his faith in you grow and be steadfastly stayed on you. Help us to remember to pray for him. Never let us become complacent or too comfortable to realize Tim's sacrifice. Remind us of your Sons sacrifice. Thank you for sending Jesus to save us. Thank you for sending us Tim to be our son. In Jesus Name, Amen.

I just keep praying, praying, praying.

Thursday, August 03, 2006

Thursday, August 3, 2006

T-33, day 45

You would not believe the immeasurable joy I have right now. I am grinning from ear to ear. His letter are so much more positive as the weeks go by. I am so proud and thrilled that he has found his niche.

The Lord has been so good to us. Last night at church, one of the associate pastors preached, and was truly meant for us to hear. It was all about standing still and trusting God. Pastor Livengood had divine inspiration for this message as it truly spoke to us. Forrest and I talked about it for three hours during the middle of the night.

This week has definitely crested the hump of bootcamp. We are in the homestretch half.

Thank you Lord.

Lord hug Tim for us, and help him know we are praying often for him and his platoon. Keep him in Your shelter.

Amen.

I just keep praying, praying, praying.

Letter received 08/03/06

Dear Everyone,
Today is July 30, and I am writing to you from the rifle range barracks. We moved everything we had from our squadbay to this one in a few hours.

Some of the major things that happened recently are:
1. We got issued the service uniform (I especially like service dress uniform. Its really nice.)
2. We have also taken photos in the dress blue uniform. The pictures will come in a package, as well as in a company "yearbook". I ordered a photo package and two yearbooks. One book for me, the other for mom and dad. (don't worry, I'm paying for it all.) I also ordered a Marine Corps ring.

Friday, we had the official Physical Fitness test (PFT), my scores are as follows:
3 mile run, 25:50 minutes
Pullups, 7
Crunches, 75

The minimum standards are as follows:
3 mile run, 28:00 minutes
Pullups, 3
Crunches, 55

As you can see, I PASSED.

So as of right now my focus is on the rifle range. If I don't qualify then I get moved back two weeks. So pray for me.

That's all I have for now.

Love,
Tim

P.S. Night mom love you, and sorry I don't write enough.

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Wednesday, August 2, 2006

T-32, Day 44

PT/MCMAP
ENDRS CRS

Physical training, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program
Endurance Course

This week is shaping up ok as halfway marks go. The heat outside is excrusiatingly hot! Heat index today is expected to be 105 degrees.

I am becoming more and more dependent on the message boards at marineparents.com. It has truly been a lifeline to find that I am not alone in my feelings. It is so profound to realize your child is training to kill another person and to possibly be in harms way. While you are extremely proud of their accomplishment, you are terrified of the unknown or tomorrow. Only faith in God, is my refuge and strength.

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Tuesday, August 1, 2006

T-31, day 43

44 days until family day on 9/14....

Today is the second day of grass week which is working with rifle and target practice. Tim is probably having the time of his life because he is playing with real guns!! The message boards keep mentioning that the Island (Parris Island) keeps getting red and black flagged. Which means rough weather, heat and humidity. During those flag times their schedules are flipped so that during the hottest part of the day, they are indoors in classrooms. Only early morning and late evening activities are done outdoors. This is a comfort to me. My temperature on the truck today said it was 101 degrees. Ouch! And we are 180+ miles north.

I struggle when I go a few days with no letters. At the conclusion of this week, we will be in the home stretch, halfway mark!! I sometimes can't tell if I am just hormonal or mourning the cutting of apron strings. Maybe I am psycho. I don't want to cook, clean or anything that requires movement.

Forrest is really cranking out the letters to Tim. He enjoys making them as much as Tim does receiving them. They look real professional, like news letters.

I sent Tim a couple of SASE yesterday, hoping it will prod him into writing. We will see.

So, I just...
Just keep praying, praying, praying.