Proud of my boy.

Well, as long as Spyder can call me frequently, I think the letters will be sparse. So, I thought I'd update you all on what's been going on with him. :)
He's in Fort Rucker, Alabama now in a much more relaxed atmosphere. The difficulty of this is that now he has to be self-disciplined with his exercise, diet, and so on. He's staying in the army's equivalent of a college dorm. He and two other guys share a room. He was finally able to start classes this week. Because they are a bit crowded, they have day classes and night classes. So Spyder ended up in night classes, attending from about 5pm-2am. Thankfully, he doesn't have to be to formation until 11 the next morning. He had his first test last night. I often stay up until 1 or 2 am to talk to him. He gave me a call after the test was over and graded. He told me that he did his best, turned his test in and went down to the room he had been told to wait in. But, he was the only one there. Another class that wasn't testing came into the room for their break, went back for more classes, came out for their second break... and Spyder was still the only one from his class waiting in the room. He started to get nervous that he'd done something wrong. He even went and checked with a sargeant. Well, after around an hour and a half some people started coming in from his class. When everyone had finished, they all went back to their classroom. On Spyder's desk was his test folder, on top of which rested a Snickers bar. He got 100%! And he was the first one in the class to finish. He broke the time record for the course, finishing his exam in a mere 14 minutes. They had been alotted 2 hours. So, he's doing very well and is keeping busy. We talk late at night to tell each other good night and get up early in the morning to tell each other to have a good day. (Man, am I tired! :)
He'll be flying home on Dec. 20th and staying until Jan. 2nd. I can hardly contain myself! It's only 15 days away. (But, who's counting?) I've already sent him his Gameboy, however, to sustain him until he gets home. ;) I am so proud of him. I tried to tell him how much potential he has and how amazing he is. So, when he told me about his test, I said, "Now do you see what I mean?" His answer was suitably sheepish. ;)
Well, I'll try to keep you guys up to date. But, finals end the day before he gets home, so if I don't get a chance before he comes, please forgive me!

Letter #10

Fri., Oct. 24; 1:23 am
Yesterday was a good day. Easily one of my favorite days of basic. You know how I am with heights. Eagle tower is a 55-foot tower with various bridges, cargo nets, and other such apparatus attached. The order went: 2-line bridge, 1-line bridge, 3-line bridge, cargo net, huge ladder, rope swing, main wall. 1-line bridge is actually a single rope that you have to commando-crawl across. I can't draw it. I'll have to demonstrate for you later. When I got to the main wall, at the top was my Drill Sergeant. Woo. When it's my turn, he motions me over to him on top of the wall. He asks a loaded question: "Are you nervous?" "F@#% no, Drill Sgt." He's a little surprised by this response. "How would you feel about it if I only put one line through your harness? If I basically sent you down fast like a sack of rocks?" I smiled a HYOOOGE smile and said, "Please? That would be awesome, Drill Sgt." Again, not the response he expected. So, he threaded me a single rope, instead of a double. I was on the wall, L-shaped, gloves on, brake hand ready before he could tell me to get ready. He asked, "You done this before?" "Yes, Drill Sgt." "How well?" "Very well, Drill Sgt. I love heights." "In that case, hold on." He turned and faced the line of soldiers on the ground, waiting to go. "Watch, men. You're about to see how it's done!" That's a lot of pressure. But, it's rappelling. It'd be like calling "chopsticks" on the piano a challenge for you. So then he turns to me. "Go." I was down in three bounds. Most soldiers did theirs in 10. So when I get to the bottom, he yells down to me, "You going to Airborne School?" "No, Drill Sgt." "Well, that's a waste." It rocked.
4:54 am
Yuck. It's raining right now, but it's the nasty, not-fun kind. And I gotta go do PT in this. Yippee. I'll write more later.
7:51 pm
Just had breakfast. I do eat pretty well, when I have the timing down. Usually bacon, eggs, grits with maple syrup, applesauce and/or cottage cheese, a slice of french toast. Mmmm. And now, Boxing! (I'm a little nervous. It's such a foreign form, to me. It's so rigid.) We'll see how I do.
4:20 pm
We've been boxing all day. I never got to, though! I was going to fight a guy, and our turn was close, then another company came over and challenged us. Our 10 best vs. their 10 best. We won 6/10. (3 of the 6 were from 1st platoon.) We kicked some ass today. I don't mind not getting to fight. The other guy kind of didn't want to, anyway. I take back what I said about the rain before. No rain is fun when you aren't with me. I miss you. So...
Sat., Oct. 25; 4:34 pm
Today has been meh. We have the final PT test on Monday, and we leave for FTX that night. So today we've been packing ALL DAY. I'm bored as hell. But I got to call! I'd do a million pushups to hear your voice.
Wed., Oct. 29; 2:07 pm
I'm out at the FTX now. Have been since Monday. I didn't expect it, but they brought your latest letter out here to me.
I'm still so sorry that school has become such a struggle. I can't wait to be home with you. Is it strange that I look forward to the day when I can devote all my time to you?
4:26 pm
I don't have a huge amount of time to write. (Plus, on such tiny paper.) We have to have 50% security at all times in this little 2 man foxhole. (He drew a picture of he and his battle buddy in the foxhole with their rucksacks, him "writing sneakily.") Georgia gets f-ing cold! I had no idea. We're only here til Friday, though. Then we come back to base and get ready for graduation. Don't worry about coming out here. I'm serious. It's not that I wouldn't love to have you out here, it's just that: what happens to "us" is more important than what happens to "me." You flying out here, me flying out at Christmas, flying back... it'd hurt us, in the long run. So, no worries, babe.
Sat., Nov. 1; 6:24 pm
We got back from the FTX last night. Ended up rucking around 10 miles or so. We've spent the day cleaning up our gear to turn in. Supposedly I get to call you tonight, but 2nd platoon is being stupid with their calls. So we'll see if I actually get to.
FTX was cold. And actually a little disappointing. I was looking forward to roughing it, and next thing I know we're marched out to a central point where we're being served breakfast. MRE for lunch. Served dinner. That part of it was kind of dumb. The rest was ok. I felt you so strongly and wanted you with me. It would have been so much more fun with you.
I'm sorry we weren't together on Halloween. It felt empty and hollow. We'll make the next one extra special! Big punkins. Yup. Decorations. The works.
Tue., Nov, 4; 1:37 pm
A lot has been going on latley. This "recovery week" is turning out to be a pain in the ass. The FTX blurb I wrote and then talked to you about, I'll include it in this letter, I guess. This is just going to have to be my last letter for a little while. (Not Happy.) It has been wonderful being able to call a little more often, lately. It's good for me. I want AIT to start so I can be in contact with you better. But it's taking so damn long! All we do is clean right now. And GFT. But they suck the fun out of even that.
Wed., Nov. 5; 8:21 am
So! The pictures/DVD/stuff order form that I was supposed to get in 30th AG (reception) I got today. I had to make a few hasty decisions. I saw the DVD, and you wouldn't care. It's boring, and you never see me at all. Instead I got the Individual picture package, photo CD, and group photo. I hope that's ok.
7:45 pm
More GFT. More cleaning. All our TA-50 gear is on our beds, so we slept on the floor. Kind of nice, actually. One of the Drill Sergeants said we had a "surprise coming tomorrow." We'll see. Last time I heard that, I ended up on duty squad. Meh. It's ok, though. I can make it. I'll make you proud. I'll be an awesome soldier. For you. For us. I wish I could call you right now!
You can probably tell how I'm feeling right now. I'm the 6th oldest in the platoon, and I can't wait to be around adults again. All the 17-21-year-olds all pretend they're so dangerous all the time. I'm whooping all their asses in GFT. Anyway, I'll send this off. I love you sweetheart. We'll be together soon.
Spyder
P.S.: I don't know what was up with that last paragraph. Just do me a favor: watch Whisper of the Heart and think of me.

I got this letter a couple of days ago, but I've been in the middle of tests again this week. (Sorry.) My cute boy and his love of heights. He makes me smile. He's getting pretty homesick.
He's been able to call me more the past week because of graduation. Our calls are mostly mushy now, so I'll just let you know what's been happening. They had family day on the 12th and he graduated yesterday. Today he and a few others traveled by bus over to Alabama to Fort Rucker where he is now. He has a lot more freedom, which he isn't used to. He says that it feels a lot like a college dorm. (I lived in a dorm once. It was LOUD.) Hopefully he gets a good sleep tonight. He's excited to start the next phase of his training. And then come home. ;)

Letter #9

Oct. 17; 8:50 pm
I just got your card. Thank you. You always know how to cheer me up. I love your cheesiness. We have another ruck march in the morning. (I HATE ruck marches.) But, meh. I'll just do it and it'll be done.
The funny thing is I just sent a letter off to you this morning. Anyway, BIG day tomorrow. Need sleep.
Oct. 20; 10:16 am
Ok, so... big couple of days. We've been doing a lot more BTT (Buddy-Team Tactics) such as room clearing, advances, grenade-minor (grenade-major is later). Feels like you've been with me a lot lately. Basic'll be over soon. Then we've got AIT to fight through. But it won't be nearly as difficult, I don't think. I'll have a lot more communication privileges, and I'll get to come home for Christmas. (I don't even care if I get any presents, as long as I can be with you.)
Oct. 21; 4:50 am
This last week has been hectic, if you couldn't tell. We're getting close to blue phase, so things are getting slightly more difficult. In a time-consuming way. We have FTX coming up. That's 6 days, 5 nights of camping out, while battling the other platoons. Rumor has it we get airsoft guns. After it's over, we go to one last range, then we do an 8-10 mile ruck march. I'm thrilled. I've heard a lot of rumors, but I have no real info.
Oct. 22; 2:51 pm
We just finished throwing grenades. As you can imagine, the Drill Sgts. sucked any confidence out of me. Procedure: release secondary safety. Pull pin. Not-throwing hand up as "sight post." Throw, and immediately kneel. Apparently I didn't kneel quite fast enough on the first time practice. (Fuses only. Bang.) Next thing I knew, the Grenadier-cadre guy's got me on the ground yelling at me, "What were you looking for?!?" Hmph. Second practice round. This guy's not such a jerk. I kneel, and he's just like, "You need to kneel a hell of a lot faster." Both times my throw was horrible. Because I was nervous. Then we went to the live range. It was here that I believe God answered one of your prayers. I felt you so strongly suddenly. I'm waiting in a huge 3-file line, packed so tight I can't move my arms and you came. I felt nervous, still. But I knew you were with me in some way. When my turn came up, I went out to the middle bunker, where this heavily-tattooed soldier, (who I knew to be a drill sgt.) was waiting. I stepped into the bunker and heard, "Where you from?"
"What? Oh, Utah, Sar, uh, Drill Sar..." (He wasn't in uniform.)
"Ain't no rank here. Name's Joe."
"Johnny."
"Mormon?"
"Yeah. Afraid so."
"Awesome. I dated a Mormon girl once. Prettiest girl ever."
"Yeah?"
"So are you nervous?"
"Yeah. The other srgts. get to ya, you know?"
"Sure do. No worries, though. You're only throwing a grenade, after all. What part makes you nervous?"
"I guess I don't kneel fast enough?"
"Then I'll remind you as you throw."
"That'd be good."
"That's why I'm here, Johnny. Now, you ready?"
"Yeah, bring it on!"
Oh, it was an awesome throw. It landed right at the target's feet, I knelt fast enough, and when I stood up, he said, "Textbook throw, target 'destroyed,' can't get any better than that. Good work, Johnny. Drive on!"
I fully believe he helped me because of you. I feel you all the time, now. Hang in there. We'll be together soon. For sure for Christmas. I'll try to get you something in time. I should have off-post weekend passes by that time, so it doesn't have to be something from the PX. Let me know if you're doing okay. I just like to know.
9:54 pm
One of my friends has been at sick call all day today. Turns out he's developed stress fractures in his hips and legs, and his spine has compressed. He's afraid he'll be discharged. The doctor put him on so many profiles that he can't march, stand for too long, or even hold his M-16. I've taken it for him a few times already. The drill sergeant is going to try to get him a temporary con leave so he can come back and finish his 2-3 weeks with another cycle. He hates the idea. He hates to quit. But I told him it's like he's a pilot who discovered a problem with the plane. Ya gotta turn back and land, but it's not the pilot's fault. Repair the plane and accept the time delay. He's a good kid.
Anyway, I should wrap this up. We will be doing Eagle Tower. Tomorrow, in fact. I'll get this sent off first thing in the morning.
Spyder
P.S.
I guess don't color envelope corners yellow anymore. My drill sergeant hates that.

Seems like our boy is doing better. I'm glad he got to do the Eagle Tower rapelling. He's been looking forward to that for a long time. Again, I'll let you all know his new address as soon as I get it. Thanks for supporting him. :)

That's twice.

Spyder was able to call me again today! I was shocked. It was so wonderful, but so hard. We both cried. He said he had a dream last night where he and I were standing outside our house - not too big, not too small - with our little girl between us. We were waiting for the bus with her. I was going to work after it came, but he was riding it with her and walking back home. I don't care what else happens, as long as I can help make that dream come true.
About 3 weeks ago, he said they asked him to meet with them for a little bit. He walked into a room and a woman was waiting there and she asked, "Is this the artist?" The drill sergeant said, "The best we've got." She asked him to draw the logo for the graduation shirts. He had twenty minutes. The shirts arrived today and everyone said they look awesome.
One of the guys that started going to church with Spyder - the one that was reading the Book of Mormon really fast - is getting baptized next week. I think that's really cool. He's really excited about it.
I told him about school lately and he said not to give up. He always bolsters me up when I need it. I'm the luckiest.
Christmas will be here before we know it. :)

A Familiar Voice

Spyder was able to call me again today. :) He's doing really good. He is homesick, though. They'll be camping this whole next week to put all they've learned to the test. I sent him a letter today and he said that should probably be my last letter (or maybe one more) until he gets to AIT. Because they'll be gone this week and then getting ready for graduation, there won't be a lot of time for mail and there's a chance he might not receive later letters at all. So, I thought I'd pass that message along to wait until I email you all his new mailing address at AIT (Fort Rucker, Alabama). I won't be able to make it out there for his graduation after all. We talked about it and he isn't upset. He said, "Please, it's like graduation from the 3rd grade to the 4th grade. I'd rather you be able to come for my AIT graduation." I am sad that I won't be there for him. He promises he has some friends to be with out there on Family Day. He's excited to be so close to the finish line. And then at AIT he can learn the specialized training for his MOS, which is basically ground control for the Apache helicopters. He'll be really good at that. We only had eight minutes to talk. He misses everyone. He probably won't be coming home between Basic and AIT, he'll just go straight over. But, Christmas is coming soon. (I can almost hear bells.) Oh, and he mentioned he's gotten pretty buff while he's been out there. He loves working out and improving himself in any way. I'm proud of him and I can tell he is proud of what he's accomplished, too.
Well, as always, I'll let you guys know when I know.
Oh, and the picture is Cloud from Final Fantasy - one of Spyder's favorite video game series, so it'll make him happy when he gets home and sees it. :)

Letter #8

Oct. 14; 9:40 am
We're at the EST 2000 again, doing CCO (close-combat optic) familiarization. Boring and inaccurate. One of the guys brought his Book of Mormon with him. He's almost to Mosiah. He reads pretty quick. I got to know another guy last night. Big time gamer/anime nut. HUGE Inuyasha fan. He and his fiancee cannot tolerate dubbed anime. He plays Guild Wars, too. (Hell of a lot more than me.) Anyway! We've got chow coming up soon. Probably MRE's again. I don't mind. I like MRE's. If I can get ahold of them, after I'm done and with my unit, they would be damn useful in your field. (Trust me, they can fill you up.) And they're pretty friggin' good, too.
We did the APFT yesterday. 54 pushups (-4), 56 situps (+2), and I ran my 2-mile in..... 13:13! That's a 100% in my run! Well, actually 13:18 is 100%. So, I exceeded the max standard. Woo! My PT score this time around was 246 (+10). I'll do even better next time. My goal is to hit 300 by the end of AIT. (Hopefully by the end of Basic!) I'm going to try my hardest.
4:04 pm
We're doing a Singars Radio class now. We did this in RSP. I already know how to set everything up. They didn't seem to appreciate that. *sigh* Well, chow is in about an hour and a half. (Hey, it's something to look forward to.) Chow, sleeping/dreaming of you, writing you letters (and getting letters!), those are the things I look forward to. Don't get me wrong, I love being a soldier. And I do it well, it's just that you are my true goal. I want to get through my training as well as I can, as fast as I can.
6:19
We've been without mail for 3 days now. Hopefully tonight. Chow sucked. I had a huge helping of this pork-mac concoction, I asked for rice and gravy. She didn't hear me say rice. So she ladled gravy right onto my tray. I actually dipped my bread in it. I ate my bread, cottage cheese, but the mac-stuff was too frickin' hot. I ran out of time before it cooled. (I'm hungry.) I wish I was home, eating gnocchi with you. I can always eat until I'm full with you.
It's 9:22 now, and I need sleep. More tomorrow, love. (I'm mushy!)
Oct. 15; 4:05 am
I hate fireguard. It wouldn't be so bad if I hadn't had a lousy night last night. Restless sleep, stupid dreams. I didn't dream of you, and that pisses me off. Instead, I got shot 4 times in battle and the Drill Sergeant got mad at me for not telling anyone. Then another dream where some of the guys and I are walking in a supermarket with a group of stupid people, and I bought beef jerky and an energy drink. Sarcastic wahoo. Stupid, pointless dreams. All I wanted was you. But, you are always with me, huh?
11:25 am
Hey. I'm back at the firing range again. This time, firing from around barricades in "full battle-rattle." Helmet, bulletproof vest, 100-oz. camelbak, 2 24-oz. canteens, ammo pouches. We shot the same pop-up sequence as we did when we qualified. I shot 23/40. I was in full BR! I would have been a first time go. I'm not annoyed, though. It shows I'm getting better.
12:54
Whee! We just had chow in the field, (NOT MRE's, actual food) and then this concessions truck pulls up. The Drill Sergeant came up to us all pissed off. Then he says, "If you qualified expert, you can get whatever you want off the truck. If your PT score was 250 or higher, you can get whatever you want." Bah! Mine was 247! Then he said, "If your run time was under 13:30, you can get a Gatorade and a powerbar." Damn, that powerbar was good!
5:35 pm
It's so weird here in Georgia. Weather, I mean. It's October. It's kinda cold in the morning, but it still gets damn hot during the day.
7:55 pm
Sorry, I had to run. We FINALLY got mail passed out to us tonight. I got your Oct. 7-9 letter!
My ear is doing a lot better. I still only have about 70% of what hearing I had, but it's getting there. (It looks normal now, at least.)
My dad wrote, too. Good stuff. He said he was proud of me. I like that. I've also gotten letters from my mom, your mom, and my Aunt Jolene. Well, it's lights out, now. So I should hit the sack. More tomorrow. 'Night.
Oct. 16; 1:20 pm
Hey. It's really a late start today, but we had a lot going from the start. That's a good thing, though. It's made the day go by fast. They can only pass out so much mail at a time, so maybe another letter tonight. We just had a class on urban combat. I'll have to employ some of this stuff during airsoft!
9:09 pm
Grrr. I need to vent for a sec: My platoon is really pissing me off lately. Because it consists of mainly 17-20-year-olds, they bitch and whine. They don't understand the "suck it up" concept. Even the Platoon Guide, I normally get along with fine, asked me to sweep the back stairs to the barracks when 3rd platoon (who were above us) was doing PT in the sand. So, I finish sweeping, and 3rd platoon comes in. I had done all that sweeping for nothing. I'm beginning to dislike inefficiency and inconsistency. It's like the drill sgts. don't know what's going on half the time. Remember the pugle sticks? That thing I was looking forward to, and was going to whoop ass in? We're not doing it! Eagle Tower? (the 60-foot rappel tower) who knows!
Oct. 17; 3:55 am
This is exactly the same fireguard shift as 2 days ago. And again, a sleepless night. I want to be with you so badly. Sorry about the venting earlier. I just needed to get it off my chest. I want one of your baked potatoes (with you, of course) and to watch Wallace and Gromit. It doesn't even matter which one. Or Chicken Little. Snuggle down in the blankie. My fireguard is almost over, so I'll finish this up and send it off. I love you so very much, Christine. Thank you for loving me.
Spyder

Well, our boy has been having a hard time, it seems. He's okay, though. He is unbelievably tough. MRE's are these dehydrated dinner things. Oh, and gnocchi are these little Italian potato dumplings I put in a chicken soup I make for him. It's his favorite thing. Our dreams and our memories will see us through. :) I got the letter a couple of days ago, but my tests took up all of my time. Sorry. Only a couple more rounds of tests this semester though. And then finals and then..... CHRISTMAS! And our soldier will be home for a little while. I'm so proud of my Spyder.

Letter #7

Oct. 10, 2008 9:27 pm
There's evidence of your influence, even here. There's this orange-stripey Tom that wanders around the CTA, meowing at soldiers. He seems to pay particular attention to me. It's strange. The lunch staff at the DFAC feed him, they call him "XAK" (Zack). They had to tell me the spelling.
*sigh* So much to tell you, sweetie. I will never be a sniper. I shot 25/40 on my first pre-qualification, (23/40 is qualify) 25/40 on my second pre-qual. The next day was qualification. I shot 19/40. But, you get 2 chances. (Mind you, I have to qualify to graduate. If I don't graduate, I DON'T COME HOME, AND I GET RESTARTED. (DO NOT WANT.)) So, on my 2nd round, I was so nervous I forgot my earplugs! (Wait! This turns out to be a blessing!) I fired my first shot. With my good ear now ringing, I'm more focused on my lack of hearing protection than on the task at hand. So by the time I finished, I didn't remember shooting. Then the D.S. in the tower called through the speaker: "Lane 1: Fail. Lane 2: Fail." etc. until "Lane 8:........ Qualify." I was so distracted by the lack of ear-pro that I shot 28/40. I qualified marksman! (Nowhere near sniper level.) But that's fine. I don't want to be a sniper. I just want to graduate and get my ass home! I miss you so much!
I'm going to go to bed for now, but Germany and I have CQ tonight. So I'll try to write more then.
Oct. 11, 2008 1:06 am
Hey, baby. About that marksman stuff. I was what they call a 2nd time Go. Yes, I qualified, but I am not now and can never be a first time Go. There's a little less respect in it. Anyway, yesterday morning we were forming up in the CTA and my D.S. is standing at the front of the formation. Suddenly he points and says, "You. Come here." So the soldier in front of me moves. "Not you, dumbass. Behind you." Meaning me. Normally, when the D.S. calls you out, it's not a good thing. So, I hurry my ass up there, fully prepared for a verbal lashing. Conversation went as follows:
D.S.: Are you sad, soldier?
Me: No, Drill Sgt.
D.S.: You looked sad, just now.
Me: I think I'm just trying to look serious, Drill Sgt.
D.S.: Did you qualify yesterday?
Me: I was a 2nd time Go, but yes, I qualified, Drill Sgt.
D.S.: Don't be so hard on yourself. You'll get better.
Me: Yes, Drill Sgt.
D.S.: Now get away from me.
These are very not-typical words from him. Then, later in the day, we are doing barracks maintenance, when he walks in. At Ease is called, and he tells us to Toe the Line (it means you stand at attention with you feet on the line that goes around the room, with your back to your bunk). This is usually a bad sign. Toe the Line is what preceded the sand castle. But he moves around the room and pulls 6 of us out of line and tells us to report to the Battalion Desk in clean ACU's, re-shaven, full perfect uniform. So we get down there when we are supposed to, and he's there to meet us. Turns out we were the new Flag Detail. (When flag comes down, we remove it from the flagpole and fold it.) Apparently, this is a huge honor. When we were done, another D.S. asked why he chose who he did. He said, "Let's just say that I notice effort. You six are the hardest-working. Not necessarily the most successful, but what you are able to do, you put your heart and soul into it. That's what a soldier is all about. I notice these things." It was cool.
8:30 am
Hey. I just did flag detail again. We have it for a week. It's going to be weird when I get back. I'm growing accustomed to the whole 3-meals-a-day concept. (I may eat breakfast more often.) I also discovered that I like grits with maple syrup in it. I just had chow, if you couldn't tell. The food is good, I just wish I had more time to enjoy it. I'm taking you out to dinner for like a week when I get back.
We did the Mk19 and 50 cal. simulator today, and GFT (ground fighting tactics). The Mk19 sim. sucked. Not accurate at all.
8:06 pm
If you can't come out for graduation, that's ok. I'd see you at Christmas. But, if you are able to make it, that would be wonderful. I don't even know how it would work out. They'll probably give me more info. later. We'll get it figured out. Tomorrow is Sunday, so that means barracks maintenance, personal maintenance, (wall locker) and letter writing/church, if I feel like it. I might go, just to see what it's like at a military installation. There's only one other Mormon here. We might go together.
Oct. 12, 2008 6:44 am
We've got a little extra time before first formation, so I figured I'd write a little. I love that dry-shaving doesn't hurt me. Because other guys see me and are like "how the hell can you do that? It doesn't tear up your skin?" "Nope." Fun. I finally broke down and got some shaving cream, though.They made one of us our Platoon Guide. It's hard on us older guys, but even more on him, now. Everyone gives him shit about being on a power trip, when really he's just trying to keep things running smoothly. There's a couple other guys I know going to Ft. Rucker for AIT. It'll be nice having a few familiar faces around. One of those guys and I have plans to go to like Olive Garden or something after Basic and just enjoy a leisurely meal.
2:26 pm
I went to church today. A couple of the guys were curious. When we got there, they asked if I had scriptures. I said I didn't and they gave me some. They gave a Book of Mormon to each of the curious guys, too. They're little and red! One guy started reading it, too.
I got off the phone with you a few mintues ago. Talking to you is so bittersweet. I love hearing your voice, but it makes a lump in my throat, and an ache in my heart. You are never far from my thoughts. In fact, on pre-qual. day, the buses wouldn't arrive for some time, so they were shuttling about 20 of us at a time in 2 2-ton trucks. About half our platoon broke out our waterprrof ponchos and sat down in the field. (Lightning kills more privates than anything else.) We were there in heavy rain for about an hour. I intended to be miserable. Then I thought of you and I in the rain. And even though you weren't there, I loved it. The truck came too soon, then. Even the very thought of you makes everything beautiful.
Anyway, I should wrap this up. PT test in the morning, you know. Need my sleep. I'll write again soon.
Spyder

He didn't actually end that abruptly; he wrote me a little love poem and then said he needed to wrap up. I'm very lucky to have him. Even when he's gone, he makes things easier when life gets hard.

Yay! The phone's for me!

I got a phone call today from Private Spyder. Around 4 pm the phone rang and when I saw it was a pay phone calling my heart sped up. "Hello?" And my favorite voice said, "I hoped you'd be home." And I started crying. We only had eight minutes to talk. It's our cat's birthday today, so I told him that we'll be having tuna for dinner later and I'd give the furball a big hug for him. He told me all about how he qualified at marksmanship. For the first part it was raining really hard and he got 25/25, so he said he probably won't be a sniper, but that he didn't want to be, anway. He said one of his drill sergeants is a sniper and that he has a hard time having a normal relationship with people. The second part was clear, perfect weather. No distractions, so Spyder's nerves were through the roof. He took his first shot and realized he'd forgotten his ear protection. And that distracted him enough that he got 19, so he passed. Now he won't have to do basic training over again. We told each other how much we missed each other and loved each other. And he said when he gets back we'll buy me a really good rock hammer. (He's so cute.) And then we were out of time and said goodbye and everything was quiet again. But, since I talked to him I've felt an overwhelming relief. He's alright. And his hearing is doing even better. He says he can hear more than he can't hear. He sounded really good. And he said a really big letter is on it's way. So, when that arrives, I'll post it here. :)

Letter #6

Oct. 6, 2008
Hey, babe. I got 3rd and 4th letters tonight. I love hearing from you. (He had to tell me some confidential information and send me a copy of his orders.)
Oct. 7
We played with A4 Rocket Launchers today! It was okay. I still don't have my hearing back entirely, it fluctuates. I'm going to be really random today. I want to come home! I miss you so much. I reread your letters when I can. I can't even concentrate half the time on my letter. I just want to write about how much I miss you. You need to understand that you are every bit as strong as me. You can do this. School comes naturally to you. And it's all for the sake of something you love. So keep doing your best, and I'll keep doing my best, as well. We'll be together again, soon. I love you.
Spyder

Sorry, this one is short and mostly mushy. It's really hard for us to be apart. And this letter he rushed to get me some information so I can work out the insurance and his payments and all that crap. We made each other the most important things in our lives because we never knew what would happen with friends or family. (And since I had another family problem today, I think it was a good idea.) I've never been good with people and I realized that I would let him kind of take care of that for me. And now it's just me. So, he's encouraging me. And I see we both have the same difficulty -- I can't concentrate either. I'm not doing very well in school this semester. I got a C on my Calculus test. He always helped me shake that stuff off because I have an anxiety disorder that makes it hard to let go. But, you know I'm getting by just trying to follow his example and be like him. I talk to people the way he does and now it's easier. So, anyway, I'm sorry if it gets too mushy sometimes. He just came into my world when I was a teenager and made everything feel alright. But we're both getting stronger, so this is good for us. Thank you guys for being there for us. Just having you guys read his blog helps me feel like an "us" instead of just me. Thanks. I'll let you know more when I do.

Letter #5

Sep. 30, 2008
I got your second letter already. You're fast! I actually got it last night, but didn't get a chance to write back. We did the training simulator again. I was a little worried, because a lot of soldiers were having issues. They set you up with 27 rounds, split into 3-shot cycles. The goal is to get a tight 6-shot group. Most of the other soldiers ended up using all 27 shots. They had to go to the back and try again. Their targets looked like (drawing of a target with shots all over the place). My first 6 shots looked like (drawing of a target with a cluster of 6 shots right in the center). I had the 3rd best shot group in the platoon. Not bad.
My ears have been giving me trouble ever since the LRC. We had to go under water, under a bunch of walls. No complaints, but my left ear started leaking fluid yesterday, during the ruck-march. And all through IED Response Training. And now, well past 24 hours later, it's still leaking. I suspect an ear infection. I can't go to sick call for it, though. If they look at it and anything is discovered to be off, like a perforated ear drum or something like that, it could be cause for medical discharge. So I'm taking care of it the best I can on my own. No worries, though. If it really gets bad, I'll go. But I'll wait to cross that bridge. I hope you'll understand when we go swimming and I don't get in. I might stay in the shallow end.
So the other guys have discovered my ability to draw. I've been designing tattoos for some of them for a couple of days now. It's been nice drawing again. Anyway, I'll try to write more tomorrow.
Oct. 3rd
I went to sick call yesterday. I got antibiotic drops and pain killer drops. (The pain killers don't help.) My ear is red, tender, and has all but swollen shut. It sounds like I have an earplug in all the time. Lucky me, I have a male nurse, 3 EMT's and 2 paramedics in my platoon. They keep tabs on it to make sure it's healing ok. I've already thought about how I would react to only having hearing in 1 ear. I'd be okay with it. As long as I can still hear you breathe. And sing. But no worries. The doc said I should be just fine. We have a 5-mile ruck tomorrow, and we have to take 5 squad support weapons this time. 2 M249 SAWs and 3 M240B's (pigs). They weigh around 20 lbs. each, so we're going to trade off every 10 min.
I got back from sick call just in time to zero my M16. My Drill Sergeant was not pleased with my late appearance. Then he saw my ear and goes, "Oh. Can you still wear earplugs?" "No, Drill Sgt." "Good. Not like Al Quaida would give you a time out while you put them in, anyway." "That's fine, Drill Sgt. M16's aren't that loud, anyhow." "Are you saying earplugs are for sissies, soldier?" "Not at all, Drill Sgt. Just stating that I'm a bad ass." "Excellent." He's pretty cool. Oh, and I should be in white phase by the time you get this. Not sure what my privileges will be, though. I know I'll get a little more personal time. That'll mean more letters for you.
We did more sim. work today. This time pop up targets. I shot 37/40. Expert (37-40), Sharpshooter (33-36), Marksman (27-32). (Expert=me.) Not too shabby. Anyway, I should wrap up for now. I'll finish this tomorrow if I can, and get this sent off to you. I love you, babe.
Oct. 4, 2008
Hey, sweetheart. We just completed the 5 mile ruck. It was fairly brutal. I came out fine, just sore. One guy took a face dive into the road. Some other guy broke his nose. Kinda sad, considering all we were doing was marching. But, as someone pointed out, some people aren't used to moving while carrying a lot of weight. They don't know how to shift it. The guy that face-planted is an Officer School Candidate (OCS). He's a damn smart guy. I'm sure he understands all the physics and crap, he just doesn't get the application part. I'm amazed at how uncoordinated some people are. Anyway, when we finished the march, we ended up on the M249/M240B range. (We didn't have to carry them on the march.) We got to fire them. And I'll tell you, the M249: Not so impressive. Fairly inaccurate. Me no likey. However, the M240B: Wow. The only way I can describe it is that I will now always be ever-so-slightly aroused by the smell of gunpowder and the sound of heavy weaponsfire. It's that much fun. Google/youtube it and you'll see what I mean.
My ear is still swollen, but doesn't hurt as much. Good sign. (Still can't hear out of it, though.) It's just annoying.
We have this "event" tonight called the "soldier show." I assume a competition of some sort. I don't actually know. After it's over, I'll be able to tell you. It starts in about 25 min., so I've got some time.
I'm also wondering if there's any way you could send me some Books of Mormon? A few guys found out I'm LDS and are curious. It might be possible for you to get the little red serviceman editions. No hurry, though.
Anyway, babe, I'm gonna go for now. After the soldier show, I'll tell you what it's about. Luvu.
I'm back. Turns out it was a military/civilian charity concert. A group of talented soldiers did a set list of popular songs. The only 3 I cared about were "Crush crush crush" by Paramore, "Apologize" by One Republic, and "Hey there Delilah" by the Plain White Tees. (I know you hate that song, but it made me think of you.) I got to have pizza, energy drinks (only one), lots of other goodies. Of course, we got smoked after. Meh. Getting smoked doesn't bother me much, now. I kinda saw it coming. It's why I didn't indulge too much. The music was damn good, though. And no one here has heard of Motion City Soundtrack, 311, or anything! They ALL listen to country, rap, or R&B. Like, that's IT. Sad.
We ARE in white phase now. But I'm still unsure of privileges. I'll find out soon. One of the Drill Sergeants said NG soldiers have been paid, so that'll be good. And I FINALLY get to go to the PX tomorrow. I need things. (Not much.) In fact, I should still have enough cash to be ok. We'll see.
Anyway.. I love you, babe. Think of me often and squeeze the fur off Miles for me. I miss that boy.
Spyder

To be "smoked" in the army means to do pushups until you are physically unable to do any more. Or to do pushups until the drill sergeant gets tired. (And in my defense, anyone who has been on my college campus in the last year and a half would hate "Hey There, Delilah" because of all the idiot girls wandering around singing it.) If you guys would please pray for Spyder, I'd appreciate it (even if he is a badass and has accepted permanent loss of hearing -- he's so cute). Thanks.

Graduation's Coming Up

Just so everyone knows, Family Day will be November 12th. At 9 am there will be a family briefing. Afterward, we will be able to spend time with our soldier from 11am-7:30pm. There will be shirts, photos, and DVDs of the training with our soldier in them. The soldiers report back at 7:30pm and there is a Married Soldier Brief at 8pm. Graduation is at 9am on the 13th.
That's all I know. That and it's at Fort Benning in Georgia. As far as I know just me and a couple of his army buddies are going to try to make it out there. But, I wanted the info. available for Spyder's family and friends in case I haven't been able to reach someone.

Letter #4

*Warning* I've decided to leave the mushy stuff in this one. I hope it doesn't bother anyone.

Sept. 25, 2008
I GOT YOUR LETTER! It made me SOOOOO happy! Every evening we have mail call. I would always expect none so I wouldn't get depressed, but there was always a hope.
Sept. 26, 2008
I have fireguard tonight from 1-2 AM and the APFT, obstacle course, AND confidence course tomorrow, not to mention a 2 mile march with 40+ lb. rucksacks tomorrow. I need sleep. I'll write again tomorrow, though, after it's all done.
Sept. 27, 2008
Hey. I'm tired, but I had a lot of fun today. I did 58 pushups, 52 situps, and ran 2 miles in 14:27. PT Score of 236. I think I did 188 before. The ruckmarch I just kind of blocked out. But the obstacle course rocked. We had to high crawl, then climb a rope, then swing across monkey bars, run across a log, run a set of high-steps, drop down 2 small walls, crawl on my back trhough mud and water under barbed wire (ditch-crawl), overa hurdle, under and over a double-hurdle, hop a wall, bear crawl 50 meters, crabwalk 50 meters, and crawl through a concrete tube. Fun times.
Then we herded over to the confidence course. I was entirely in my element.
Ok. So it started with 7 walls of increasing height. Then we moved on to "the bellybuster." It consists of a wood beam you have to flip yourself over, a wall you have to use a rope to climb, a pole you sloth crawl across, let yourself down a rope, balance across 3 logs and swing across monkey bars. Then we hit this tower where you climb about 40 ft. in the air, use a rope for the last 1/4 of the climb, then descend head first and upside-down down an inclined rope. I helped about 10 soldiers conquer their fear of heights. The last thing was a set of handless hurdles, a rope-swing-over-a-wall, followed by 10 vault hurdles and an inclined log run. It was paradise. Spiderman is back! I impressed the Drill Sergeant by vaulting the 10 through my arms instead of around. That probably doesn't make sense.
Everyone says you and I look alike. One guy said you and I look like we were meant for each other. I said, "yeah," and teared up. Everyone here knows how much I love you. I don't hide it one bit. I half expected to be made fun of for it, but they respect me for it. It's cool. A couple of them have asked what they can do to strenthen their marriages. I simply tell them to put their wives' needs first. To some, this is like a foreign concept. *shrug* There's a guy in the next bunk who is 31 and married. He gets it.
Sept. 28, 2008
This kid offered me 5 dollars to do fireguard with him, so he wouldn't have to do it with another guy. He said that guy always falls asleep and he wanted somebody dependable. I don't require a whole lot of sleep, so that was fine. So there we are, 4 AM, everyone else was asleep, and he asks me my views on religion. I'm not sure he'll ask me again. I miss you so much, especially at night. I'll just think about you the whole time during fireguard. I think about you any time it starts getting to me, and I can do it. You're my North Star. You are where I'll be happiest, and it keeps me going. You help me fight. The other day one of the M16s went missing, so the Drill Sergeant was pissed. It's a serious thing. One M16 goes missing and the entirety of Ft. Benning is on lockdown. Turns out one guy just left his in the rack, but we were supposed to take it with us. So, to teach us a lesson, the D.S. had each member of the platoon go downstairs and get a sandbag. Then we opened the sandbags back up in the bay and dumped the sand on the floor. Then he had us empty our camelbacks onto the sand. (About 300 lbs. of sand, 120 gallons of water.) So now our floor is covered in wet sand. He makes us do pushups in it. Then he says that the floor had better be spotless and waxed by morning. I wanted to cry. Then I thought of you. When he left, I built a sand castle. If I'm strong, it's because you made me strong. And we had the floor waxed an hour later. Anyway, it's Sunday and chow's coming up, so I'll write more later.
-Later-
Mmm... Pork chop, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, cornbread, full glass of water, full glass of powerade. In 3 minutes. That's about all the time we get to eat any of our meals. I have to inhale my food. So the food I choose to put on my tray, I try to make sure it's either stuff that requires minimal chewing (cottage cheese, applesauce, mashed potatoes, macaroni salad, etc.) or stuff like bread slices or cornbread that breaks up easily with a little fluid.
Hm. Just found out we have a 5 mile ruck march tomorrow. In my ruck is: 1 protective vest, 1 helmet, my uniform, 2 pair socks, 2 pair shirts, 2 pair underwear (all in a weatherproof bag), a sleeping bag in a stufsak, a set of wet weather gear, poncho, and my camelback. Altogether, it weighs 68 lbs. So, yeah. That's going to be an experience. (DO NOT WANT.) It's cool though, I'll just get some Motion City Soundtrack in my head and go. (Or Banana Pancakes!)
Anyway, if I want to get this sent I'd better wrap up. I was going to say I'm not sure what happened to my writing since I've been here... my words will just drop a letter, a letter won't be fully formed, I'll suddenly put an uppercase letter in the middle of a word, or I'll start writing a word from the middle. I hope it's not too unreadable. I hope you write back soon. I love you. More every second. I can't wait to take you in my arms again. Heaven to me is never having to let go. I love you.
Spyder

I wanted to leave everything in it because some parts are part of the story he's telling. And because what he says shows what a wonderful man he is. He does put me first. And I try to put him first. That's why it works. We both give all we have to each other and hold nothing back. Oh, and Banana Pancakes is a Jack Johnson song. It always helps us feel better. And it's our cat's favorite song. He'll run into the room, curl up, and go to sleep when we play that song. I knew Spyder would be good at this stuff. (I've got to say, though, what he calls paradise sounds pretty hard to me.) I'm so proud of him.

Letter #3

Sept. 23, 2008
I heard a rumor today that we'll hit white phase as soon as Saturday. I hope. I did find out that graduation is supposed to be the 13th of Nov. There's a Family Day thing the day before. I don't know all the details. My friends back there might know more. Overall, it's not anywhere near as hard as everybody made it seem. Hell, last night one of the Drill Sergeants practiced his amateur comedy routine on us. He's a funny guy.
Our platoon has been making another Drill Sergeant proud lately. He used to call us POGs. (pronounced poge) It stands for People Other Than Grunts. He typically hates non-infantry. Yesterday, we were going through the chow line, and we sounded off REALLY LOUD with our entrance call. It goes like this:
D.S.: Last two spartans secure the door!
All: LAST TWO SPARTANS SECURE THE DOOR!!!
Last two: Cover us while we move!
All: WE GOT YOU COVERED!!! SPARTAAAAANS - BOOM!!! (Spartans - we yell this while they run to the door. Boom - we yell this when they get there.)
Last two: Drill Sgt! Request permission to enter the DFAC, Drill Sgt!
All: DRILL SGT!!! REQUEST PERMISSION TO ENTER THE DFAC, DRILL SGT!!!
D.S.: ENTER!
All: NO MERCY!!! (Hoo! Hoo!) NO PRISONERS!!! (Hoo! Hoo!) EAT HEARTY!!! FOR TONIGHT WE DINE IN HELL!!!
Normally at this part, the last two open the DFAC doors, and the 1st platoon files in. This time, another platoon was in the way. Our Drill Sgt. holds open the door and yells, "Hurry the hell up, you bunch of useless pound puppies! I've got an army of 60 angry hungry spartans out here that need to eat!" Trust me, from this man, that is high praise. The fact that he called us spartans meant he was impressed. He's a sniper, by the way. He said that I shouldn't trust the video system I tested on, but that it shows I have potential. He is going to be the one teaching Basic Rifle Marksmanship. He said he'll teach me everything he can. Also, after the run this morning, during the cooldown walk, he started calling cadences. Another Drill Sgt. noticed and said, "Wow. They must have done well to get him in that good of a mood."
Time seems to be going at a decent clip here. There are a couple of optimistic guys around, so they keep me going.
Spyder

When I get a letter and finish reading it, I get so excited to post it on here for you guys to read. He's already been in Basic for 2 weeks, so the hardest part should be over for him. It seems like he's learning a lot. There had been some talk of suggesting him for sniper back here before he left. It's a difficult position to get. You have to be invited. His superiors can recommend him if he impresses them. The military doesn't care about his grades growing up or if he's ADD or anything. Just what he shows them now counts and he loves that. He's been trying to be responsible and take care of the two of us as much as he can. He's a really good man.

Letter #2

So I just finished a first aid test. Turns out I have homework, as well. (Not nearly as hard as yours, though.) Now I'm pretending to take land-nav notes.
I won't pretend that basic isn't hard, it's just not that hard. There's a lot of soldiers who joined with dreams of glory and grandeur, only to find out how much discipline it takes. The cool thing, though, is that this (my) cycle is the final non-infantry Basic cycle for Ft. Benning. Once I'm done, they will train ONLY infantry. It's actually a historic thing. That, and I found out that Ft. Benning isn't one of the hardest, it's THE hardest. Sure, one guy forgets to end a sentence with "Drill Sgt." and the whole platoon has to run 6 laps, but I don't mind. I just miss you. That's the only painful thing. Everything else to me is just training and inconvenience. 1 less day down until I see you again, you know?
So there are 60 soldiers in my platoon, made up of 4 squads of 15. I have no idea where I was going with that.
I'm sorry I don't get to write much. That should change when we hit white phase. We'll have a little more personal time. Hopefully soon. Anyway, more things I miss than I can mention.
Spyder

There was more mushy stuff that I cut out this time. Mostly he said some of the weird things about me that he misses that I would be embarrassed for you guys to know. Even though this letter was short, it's like I get to take a deep breath when one comes and then I'm holding my breath until the next one comes. I'll let you know when I do.

At last a letter!

Sept. 5, 2008
Well, I'm finally here. Reception isn't hard, it's just boring. It's like Satan's checkout counter. And it's only day 2. There's just so much standing around waiting. I found out in Optometry that my glasses are no good. My vision has worsened. Slightly.
They issued me a camelback, though, so that's cool. I've had to be in PT gear the whole time. My clothes and other things are in my bag locked in another part of the facility. Anyway, I have fireguard tonight, so I should go for a bit. I'll write more later.
Sept. 6, 2008
Now it's 4:15 a.m. and I have fireguard again. I should get to sleep through the night tomorrow, though. I don't mind fireguard much. I get along ok with my group. They're good guys. They're all over the place.
My thoughts are everywhere, aren't they? I've heard I get 2 weeks for Christmas, so that'll be good. We'll be together again soon.
Sept. 11, 2008
So, wow. 1st day of Basic Red Phase is over. The "Shark Attack," as they call it, proved too much for some. It's been helpful knowing that they laugh later about it. One of my sergeants back home was a godsend that way. I'll have an address for you soon. For now, I have to sleep.
Sept. 15, 2008
These last few days have been hell. Not really in a bad way. We have 3 main Drill Sergeants. One is our Senior D.S. He's in his 50's, I'd guess, cool, calm disposition. We lucked out there. Another is in his 30's, likes to make us do P.T. Typical D.S. The third is a legend in cruelty. He made us disassemble our 30 bunks and reassemble them downstairs in the formation area. He gave us an hour to do it. So, we did it in 45 min. Yeah, that made him mad. So, he made us break them down and take them back to our bay. He gave us 40 min. And they had to be in order. We did it in 30 min.
We had to do the gas chamber today. Not nearly as bad as everyone said. Well, for me. Come to find out, only 3% of the populace is immune to CS gas, but about 10 % are CS tolerant. I am CS tolerant. Woo! We decided that my platoon would sound off with our platoon name upon exiting the chamber. Everyone else said, "splarplughwppl" or something like that. So, because my lungs cleared almost instantly, I sound off so LOUD so that I made up for the platoon. The D.S. of another platoon was like, "How come you couldn't do that?" to them.
My battle buddy is this pretty cool 20-something kid. He's lived in Germany for 18 years. Speaks German, English, and French fluently. (Can you tell I finally have enough time to write?) I don't have fireguard tonight, so I can finally catch up. So far I've been issued a lot of crap, including vest, helmet, and an M-16 4A.
All in all, I'm doing ok. I need to sleep for now, but I'll send this tomorrow.
Spyder

I was so excited to get this letter today. I edited out the mushy stuff to spare you guys, but if you want to read it too, I can include it. It's such a relief to hear from him at last. As usual, I'll let you guys know when I do.

The Commander's Letter

I got a letter from Private Spyder's Commander today. It's a letter telling me more about what Basic Training will be like for him, so I thought you all would be interested, too.
The letter says that to become a soldier he must complete 9 weeks of extremely rigorous training. The training is so demanding physically, mentally, and emotionally that there will be times he wants to quit. So, he will need letters of encouragement (but no food or bulky items, apparently). When he's done he will have: walked over 100 total miles with full combat gear and pack, had Physical Training 6 times a week, learned about all kinds of weapons, spend over 25 hours of training in hand-to-hand fighting techniques, and hundreds of hours learning other skills. He will also go on a 5 day Field Training Exercise where he will use all of his training. It says that though he is physically away from our family that he is now with a large Army family that is supporting him. He'll have a battle buddy and at least 55 soldiers in his platoon that he'll get to know. His drill sergeants will be there to help him, too. (Trust me, it's not like the movies. This isn't Full Metal Jacket or Forest Gump. Though they do yell.) The drill sergeants have had a lot of training and been in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other combat operations so they really know what they're talking about. They won't ever ask Spyder to do anything they haven't done themselves. He will have a Family Day on November 12th (out there) and on the 13th will be his graduation. I'm going to try to save enough money to go. I checked my school schedules and I'll have two tests on those days, but I'll talk to my professors as soon as I can to see if I would be able to take them another day. My math one I could take on Monday. I could take my Chemistry test on Tuesday and leave later that day, maybe... it will all make more sense as it gets closer. I don't know how much plane tickets cost, so I'll have to see. A couple of his army buddies want to go out there for it, so I guess I would just go with them. One of them had basic at the same place, so he'd know the layout of the place and everything. The letter also sent me Spyder's mailing address, which I will email to as many of you as I can find addresses for.
I know it's really tough for him right now. The letter also said he'll have very limited phone time, so I don't know how much he'll be able to call. I know he'll try to write as much as he can. If anyone can do this, it's him. He's the strongest person I've known. He does his best at everything he does. And it shows.
I'll be writing a lot of letters. I'm sure he'd enjoy hearing from you guys, too, if you want. :)

What's that ringing?

I got another brief call from Spyder tonight. He's done with reception now and will head to the part of the base where he gets basic training tomorrow. He's gotten checked by doctors and some shots. The penicillen shot had to be in the deriere and he said, "I'm not gonna lie: it hurt." He confessed to making a small noise, but one of the guys was practically yelling. He said the medical examiner looked at the guy and asked, "Seriously?" Our boy is really glad to be done with the reception part, but I could tell he's a little nervous because tomorrow the hard part begins: drill sergeants. The yelling isn't to just to be mean, though. Spydey pointed out that if you can't take someone yelling at you, how are you going to stay focused during a battle? He understands the reasons behind basic training, so he'll do fine. You gotta play the game. It shows them how well you will follow orders under pressure. He'll be able to mail his letters after he gets there and will have a return address. He kept asking how I am. I'd tell him I was good, but he asked me 3 or 4 more times. (He's so cute.) He told me to be strong. (I'm doing my best, but him being gone and having caluclus is not a good combination.) So, we'll hear from him in a few days or a week. It will probably be intense right after he transfers over. He did find out that he might get to come home for a couple of days before AIT and that he'll be here for about 2 weeks at Christmas (though he has to keep in touch with one of his sergeants during that time). That already makes it less difficult for us all than it would have been. Well, you guys, I'll let you know when I do.

Phone Call

Spyder was at last able to call me last night. He's slipped into his West Virginia accent a little bit from being around so many soldiers from the South. He's still in reception right now, getting his paper work through and being issued his new uniform. He said he'd been going to school and getting good grades. The guy on the bunk below him is 37 and his wife and kids are waiting for him at home. It seemed to help Spyder feel better that other guys were homesick, too. He said another guy was asking everyone what they were doing that time last week. Spyder told him that he was avoiding saying goodbye. We couldn't talk very long because the other guys were waiting to use the phone, too. But, he's okay and he's doing well. His return address will change in a few days, so he'll write as soon as he knows what it is. I was just glad to hear something. The first week or so is really busy, according to my dad (he fought in Korea during Vietnam). Things will develop a pattern soon. I'll let you know when I get the first letter.

Private Spyder

This is Spyder's wife, Wisp. Once I got him to the hotel to check in, he got very nervous. He always told me he felt like some other part of him would be leaving, and that he was really staying here. It became very real very suddenly. Saying goodbye was excruciating. He should have left for Georgia already and has probably been busy getting his paperwork processed and all of that fun stuff the past few days. He ended up leaving for Georgia one day later than expected, so I'm sure he had a joyful day sitting in the hotel. I will probably be getting a letter soon and I will post some excerpts from each letter I get here for you guys to read so you can keep up to date with his progress. I just wanted you to know that he's out there now having a hell of a time. Updates soon to come.

Lesson 17: Keep It With You Always

I'm saddened by the fact that this will be my final post for a while. Until around mid-February, I think. In a few short days, I'm shipping off to Ft Benning, GA for the 9 weeks of basic training, and then to Ft Rucker, Alabama for 11 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT). I'll be writing letters, at least, during this time. However the only person that I guarantee correspondance is my wife. But, she'll be updating my blog as regularly as she can with excerpts from the letters I send home for you all to read.
Twin and Girls- I'm sorry I didn't make it up there to say goodbye in person. There are rumors of my having internet access in AIT. We'll see. If not, I'll have Aunt Christine drop you a line for me.
Pop- I'll see you in summer, presumably. Thanks for the support. I'm glad you and I have been able to see each other for who we truly are.
The Man and Dead Poet- Brush up on the Soul Calibur skills. I expect a full-on smackdown when I get back. Thanks for your help with the move.
Christine- I can't express how much I'm going to miss you. Even though you still have a couple of days left with me, I'd like to place something here for you anyway, for you to see and remember. Hell, everyone else can see it too:

Do you hear me,
I'm talking to you
Across the water across the deep blue ocean
Under the open sky, oh my, baby I'm trying

Boy I hear you in my dreams
I feel your whisper across the sea
I keep you with me in my heart
You make it easier when life gets hard

I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh

They don't know how long it takes
Waiting for a love like this
Every time we say goodbye
I wish we had one more kiss
I'll wait for you I promise you, I will

I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Lucky we're in love every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday

And so I'm sailing through the sea
To an island where we'll meet
You'll hear the music fill the air
I'll put a flower in your hair

though the breezes through the trees
Move so pretty you're all I see
As the world keeps spinning round
You hold me right here right now

I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
I'm lucky we're in love every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday

-Jason Mraz and Colby Callait

You're my best friend, sweetheart. I'll fight for us with all I've got. Until I'm broken, bruised and bleeding. Whatever it takes, we'll be okay.

Lesson 16: *raspberry*

It has been brought to my attention that evidently, I am a downer. *shrug*. So, here's a better story for you: I have just finished my enlistment in an RSP company, which is for those soldiers that have not yet shipped to basic combat training. (I'll be doing that soon.) The "company" is a group of 40-80 soldiers, divided into platoons. Each platoon, of which I am in the 2nd, consists of 4 squads of 5-10 soldiers, to include Squad Leaders, such as myself. Now to explain the Motivational Phrase: The company, when falling in, assemble at attention and sound off with "LEAVE NO TRACE!" As we are the Delta Company Ghosts, this seems appropriate. 1st platoon has it's own Motivational Phrase for when it falls in as a platoon. Usually what it sounds like is "WE ARE WARRIORS! (unitelligible utterances for about 12 more syllables) DRIVE ON, DRILL SERGEANT, DRIVE ON!" I think someone was trying to hard.....

So, SFC Boman noticed that 2nd platoon didn't have one. And so he asked for suggestions. No one was brave enough to speak up. So he said that since no one spoke up, we'd go down the line squad by squad sounding off untill we got one we liked. My mind went blank. Before I knew it, he was to Private Rowley, who sounded off with "LOUD PROUD AND AVOWED!" I thought we should just go with that. But no, he gets to me. Only one thing came to mind:

"NAPALM STICKS TO KIDS, HOOAH!"

Wow. Yup. That's what I sounded off with.

"Napalm sticks to....kids? Hooah?" SFC Boman was understandably confused. Our lead sergeant walks in and asks, "Did I just hear that napalm sticks to kids? You have not been in the military long enough to know about that."

We ended up going with "Loud Proud And Avowed." But the look on Boman's face was enough to make me giggle even now.

Lesson 15: Hey, Spyder. How's It Going? Great!

Honestly, I have no clue what to post about, so I'm going to ramble until an appropriate topic makes itself evident. Know what else is evident? The crippling lack of comments. (Wow, that was fast!) Now, make ready for the thrashing which is to come!
So just why am I so hard up for comments? They are the proof that my post are being viewed. I do not have a visit counter, nor can I set my blog to provide me with read receipts whenever I log on. Thus, it is up to the reader to provide the author with feedback and (con/de)structive criticism. Not that I'm being whiny, but it goes like this: I post. Optimally, I recieve comments about my post to respond to. Thus, I respond to those comments with either comments of my own, or I get excited that I got responses and I post again! It's like Christmas! Huzzah, our long lost child who has had so difficult a time using emails, phone, and/or letters has at long last managed to discover a method of constant interesting communication between himself and others! Wait, or has he? Hello? Anyone? Huh!..........................guess there's no one here........no point in posting another then, I guess.....(See how that works?)

Lesson 14: Gonna Drink 'Til I Puke And Puke 'Til I Pass Out!

So! I'm not feeling very rant-ish today. I'm sure you're all annoyed, disappointed, and the like. Well, I'm sorry. Contrary to what may have graced the pages of this blog prior, I am in reality quite pleased with my life and it's current direction. I am constantly frustrated by the inadequacies of the management of my workplace, and the customers drive me bat shit... but the rest of it is actually rather enjoyable. How many people can honestly say they like everyone they work with? We all get along. The only ones who doesn't really fit are the station manager, regional manager and resident representative. And it's their own damn fault. I have achieved indispensability in my particular workplace, and I know my cities so well, police have asked me for directions. My superiors are supportive of my military responsibilities. My wife is so much more...okay with all this than I ever expected. She used to shy away from the subject if I ever brought it up. Now, she just seems proud of me. She listens to my stories from drill with unending patience, she attends military functions when she can, it's great. I absolutely LOVE my wife. She's a gamer, like me. We play together all the time. We bond that way. It's one thing of many that we share in common.
We're moving to a more affordable place that is ten times better quality, in a quiet neighborhood. It's really nice. And I hate the cliche "I'm so blessed!" stuff. But you know what? I am. Especially when I choose to notice.

Lesson 13: Place The Sandwich On The Table And Back Away Slowly

If there's one thing I've learned in life, it's that anonymity breeds stupidity. Take the ridiculous "How's My Driving?" stickers that are slapped on the back of so many service vehicles nowadays. Mind you, this is in the center of a hypocritically judgmental society armed with a heaping dose of cell phones, unlisted numbers, and rotund egos. (I'm actually amazed I don't get complaints more often...) There's me, driving around a town of bored, overworked, undereducated people suffering from a deafening lack of healthy self-image and seething with an angst they don't actually understand, seeing as it was introduced into their tiny little boring lives via osmosis from their most recent trip to the movies. What's this? A delivery truck being driven by a stranger, whom I don't know, and they don't know me? A number to call? I know! I'll take out my anger towards my boss/wife/mother/father/sister/brother/dog/taco bell/president/Taliban/bad meat in the fridge by calling in a complaint against this innocent driver who's only trying to do his job! Way to stick it to the man!

Lesson 12: Hey! Listen!

Click on the "Wisp" link. ----------->

And leave comments there.

Or

No More Update For You!

Do It!

Please?

Lesson 11: Way Of The Unseen Hand

Let me begin this one by stating that I despise cellphones. My wife and I went to a local well-known theme park yesterday. Teenagers: do you really need to whip out your phone that you don't pay for while you're standing in line for the roller coaster and text your best friend telling her that OMG, you're in line for the roller coaster? Pathetic. Wow, you can text in a barely decipherable language at a thumb-blistering 80 words per minute! Am I supposed to be impressed by this?

In my line of work, I see the detrimental effects of cell phone use while driving. Thousands of you out there are thinking, "Well, most people can't multi-task like I can." Newsflash: YOU CAN'T MULTI-TASK WORTH A SHIT. None of you can. Believe me. I'm sure that this morning, Mr. Multi-task himself thought he was being sooo efficient when he drifted into my lane, forcing me almost into a ditch, smashing my driver-side rear view mirror so that the glass blasted through my window and into the hand that was shielding my face. I doubt he knew anything even happened. For one, he was in a huge hick-sized truck, and for two, he was gabbing away on his beloved cellphone.

So do me a favor: Hang up.

*sigh*......now that that's over with, my wife and I had a wonderful time at the theme park. We discovered that she has a liking for margarita-flavored Hawaiian ice smoothies.

Lesson 10: What Makes Truth Hard To Take Is That Society Is Built On Lies

Before I forget, I'll be adding a links list soon. This is to be accessed at one's own risk, seeing as I have incredibly odd taste in humor. It's late, so I'm going to go to bed and edit this post later. For now, enjoy.

Edit: A few links have been added. More to come. For those interested, the Wisp link leads to my wife's blog.

Lesson 9: How To Turn Right In A Left Turn Lane

As I'm sure has been noticed, the subject matter within a post rarely is reflected by the title, or lesson, as it were. Why is this? Because I need, somewhere in my life, a place where things don't make sense and it's ok. I started a blog so that I could have a space on the internet where I can be a moron, and it's fine. Because God forbid you do that anywhere else. See, I've reached that crossroads now, where I have the option of becoming and maintaining a responsible, well-mannered, all-american citizen, or whether to slide back to being a comfortable, self-centered, under-achieving asshole. Yeah, I know. That answer should be a obvious as the choice between ice cream or death. (I should tell you, I am no advocate to the frozen abomination) But apparently it's a more difficult decision than that. No, I'm not going to get religious, here. The Jesus Cannon remains lovingly tucked away, reserved for more dire usage. It's just that I want so badly to become the living embodiment of my potential as a human being, a person, an employee, a father and husband. (To allay any questions forthwith: I have no children. When we have them, you will be informed of it. Do not ask. And don't worry about Big Leon back there with the baseball bat...If you'll spare me the questions, he'll spare you your knees. Capiche?)
But at the same time I want to not care. I wish I could just be whatever I feel like, and let the world screw itself. Much to my joy, though, the responsibility seems to be winning out, albeit slowly.

On a mostly unrelated note: My father visited this weekend. I got to see both my parents in the space of about a week. And my siblings and their respective families. It was good to connect again. Not sure when I'll blip back off the radar, but whenever I do, I'll surface again. I always will.

Lesson 8: Because Sometimes You've Had Enough For A While

Wheeeee, going on hiatus for an indefinite amount of time. Just figured I'd do the courteous thing and keep you all in the loop. Later.

Lesson 7: If You Fall, Try Not To Bring Others Down With You

This last Friday was my first day off I've taken in about 6 months. Not that I haven't tried before, it's just that I would have a day off scheduled, and they would take it away from me. So I drove my point home when a blanket message was sent to all the drivers: "Supervisor needs someone to work the dock tonight and take a line haul truck to the ground hub. $25." we're talking at least 4 more hours of work for 25 dollars. So I messaged back: "I'll do it." Much to the Supervisor's relief.

Upon finishing my route and getting back to the station, I told him I wasn't going to work that night. "But you messaged back that you would!" my now angry and confused supervisor said. "You're right. I told you one thing, and now I'm going to take it back at the last second. Feels great, no?" "Hm. I get your point." he admits. I then told him of my private arranging for another driver to do it. "So I will have this Friday off, correct?"

He agreed, and I had Friday off, the first day off in 6 months that didn't involve personal injury. Sad that I basically had to bully my point across in order to obtain something that should have been my right. Let this be a lesson: The squeaky wheel gets the grease. (However, I should warn you that if a little grease doesn't do the trick, the wheel gets replaced. So don't overdo it.)

Lesson 6: The World Will Eventually Come To A Screeching Halt And Hurl You Into Deep Space, So You May As Well Get Your Life Figured Out Now

I've come to the conclusion that people act in unison without their own knowledge. Here's an example: Mondays I have 5 regular pickups. Those pickups show up whether they actually have anything or not. In addition to those, I typically get anywhere from 5 to 10 more throughout the day, until my 2:00pm cutoff time. So how is it that today there was a single call-in, giving me fits of paranoia the whole day? Because I know that they're all going to hit me at once, and at like 1:45pm, effectively ruining my day...but then my cutoff time hits, and...nothing. In a fit of rapture I use that extra time to drive like a madman from stop to stop, getting a ridiculous amount delivered and finishing well within my time frame. But back to the point, how did almost everyone coordinate their lack of pickup needs on the same day without talking about it?

It boggles my messed-up little mind...

My cat drinks from the sink. It's a little embarrassing, because it feels like he's spoiled out of his fur. He gets up on the sink and mrowrs and prrrps until we come turn the faucet on. It just makes me hope I'll be more stern with my eventual kids than I am with my cat. His name's Miles, by the way, and he looks like a Russian Blue. (What a cat looks like vs. What a cat's breed actually is. Two very different things.) He shows some of the traits, which I suppose means he might have a little Blue in him. He's about 3 1/2 years old. (I will NOT give his age in months! I DESPISE referring to the age of anything over a year in months...)

Lastly, I've received responses from several family members and friends now, but I'm still missing a few. Hey, even a "your blog sucks," will do.

Later...

Lesson 5: If You Know The Right Answer, Speak Up

So this was the first Monday with the route from Hell. Gah. I had about 80 stops, instead of a typical 50 to 60. On top of that our ground truck was late, making all of us late....sigh. It makes me want September to get here early so I can head off to Basic Training. I ship to Ft. Benning. Yes, I've heard the horror stories, but I don't care. I'm going to be the best damn soldier they've ever had. It's just that the military is so clear about what's expected of you. It's not run by some ass-bag that can't manage the finances of his own company...the paychecks of 6 other drivers actually bounced, once. That's scary.

My brother suggested I join the company he works for. I thought it was a great idea. Haven't heard a whole lot more about that...

Anyway. Post comments!!!!

Lesson 4: Landing On Your Feet

Upon my arrival to work this morning, I set upon my usual routine: Clock in, get my scanner from the cradle-rack-thing, steal a piece of paper from the printer to write my stops down on, leap the belt to my truck and start the sort. Problem encountered: as per normal, the sort started about 15 minutes early. Also as per normal, other drivers had started pulling my freight for me. How nice of them. About half of what was in my stack of boxes thus far consisted of deliveries for a city that I no longer delivered to. Innocent mistake perhaps? No, too many boxes for that. Cruel joke? Not this early in the morning, all the other drivers are well aware of my usual morning-shenanigans disposition. No, that city is once again under my stewardship. Damn them.
That means I have 3 cities and 5 small towns to deliver to. Thrillsville.

In other news, I love my new car. Miss the old one, though. It had a beatability, if you will. I felt free to E-brake it whenever I felt like it. She was tough. I can't do that in the new one. She's to nice, right now.

Also, allergies are hell. And the worst of it is nothing works for me but Ben-a-drill. I love being boring, listless and drowsy. Yes, sir. Only problem is that my sneezing and sniffling tend to annoy certain parties, and I get told to shut up quite often. Kinda like getting slapped for hiccuping...

Yeah, I think I'm done...

Lesson 3: Respect Your Elders

In my short twenty-something years on this planet, it has entered my head somewhere along the way that I am significant. I know this to be entirely untrue. I realized this when sitting with a finance manager of a particular car dealership signing a paper that keeps me broke and them paid, and discovered how uneasy I've become around signature lines. No, they don't keep me awake at night, they just make me uncertain about everything. Like, "If I sign this piece of paper, they have the right to revoke my car and rape my credit score at any given time." Now, I can't give you an estimate of how many people entertain even mild conspiracy theories, but I know the number's up there. I don't suspect people consciously, I just somehow imagine them walking into a classroom labeled "wallet-raping 101". Or, at least, being pulled aside after a declined sale by a fellow associate and being told that he's too nice a guy, gave up too easy, put the pressure on, etc. Here's how you get more money, and all that.

But I know why I suspected the guy: He understood the numbers, and I didn't. Car starts at $8,000 and by the time you sign for it, you're agreeing to pay $11,000. How the hell? It's easy to imaging you're being taken. I mean, he is a car salesman.

I apologize to car salesmen everywhere. It's a job. I understand that perfectly well, believe me. But the stereotype is there for good reason. I'm not saying all car salesmen live up to the stereotype. But somebody did. Good lord, which stereotypes might I fit?

I don't want to think about that...


Edit: If you are reading these, PLEASE feel free to post comments. Just click a "comments" link at the end of the entry you want to comment on. Please.

Lesson 2: Patience is a Virtue

I work for a fairly well-known courier company. For the sake of avoiding a fun-filled lawsuit I can't afford to defend against, it shall remain undisclosed. What will be disclosed is this company's utter lack of moral standing. Sure, they're all for a crisp, clean uniform, clean shaven appearance, and utter dedication to the cause and country. Sounds like Nazis? Never!

The point is, you have to go beyond how a company presents itself. After all, they're the ones footing the bill for the advertisements to make them more appealing. I myself find it an affront to my intelligence and belief system for them to assume I base 90% of my opinions on image. Granted, about 95% of the general populace is that way, but who the hell wants to be average? I claim I don't, but when it comes down to it, I find I want the same things as those people I make fun of. I want a good job, security, a masterful understanding of exactly what is going on with our economy...

But let's face facts: I didn't know what APR meant until two years ago, and I don't understand equity now. It sounds like a bunch of buzzwords that wealthy real-estate agents throw around at lunchtime at the Red Lobster to sound cool in front of their real-estate buddies, before they all go play some real-estate golf, and then get home just in time to fight with their wives because their wives just dropped $35,000 online for a shit-load of Nordstrom crap that they thought looked good then only wore once because their husbands said they looked "ok".........I am NOT bitter.......