Today

I woke up this morning with a specific plan…to sit in the sun and enjoy a book and a Sodoku puzzle. I woke up, ate breakfast and grabbed my chair, a book and the other “necessities.” Sitting in the sun was nice. I had my ipod, a bottle of cold water, a book and my puzzle book. I enjoyed the sun for nearly 2 hours. What a great feeling to just sit outside and think of the great times ahead – when I finally get home. Even though I had to sit outside in my PT gear (we are not allowed to wear civilian clothes outside of our rooms) it was still quite enjoyable. Of course, it could be a lot worse…

I showered and got ready for work and by the time I went back outside, it was a dust storm like none other. The temperature dropped and the wind picked up and all you could think about was how the conditions were “perfect” for them. This is not a good perfect...

Later this afternoon, I checked my email to find yet another gift from Anonymous (aka the “Most Wonderful person”) in the form of a COJ for my fellow comrades here with me. So, being the thankful person that I am (and always doing what “Anonymous” says), I did what was asked. After dinner this evening, I took my COJ to the local green beans and proceeded to do what I am supposed to do: buy fellow “Joe’s” and “Jane’s” a Cup of Joe! Here is a picture of some of tonight’s recipients of Anonymous' generosity. It continues to amaze me just how appreciative these Joe’s and Jane’s are. They are in awe that someone back home cares enough to buy them a coffee. It actually is a little bothersome that they are so shocked. That tells me that they just don’t see that generosity back in the states, which is a bit saddening. We, Americans, need to truly learn to take better care of our own, it is the right thing to do. So, to Anonymous, you have been thanked and your generosity ---yet again---- shocked the Warriors around me. Trust that I am spreading your good deed and giving you 100% of the credit. Tonight’s recipients could speak highly enough of you. You ARE wonderful!!!

Incidentally, before I left work tonight I had a conversation with a co-worker about the weather conditions. My co-worker thought the conditions were too bad. Dusty conditions can only mean one thing---activity. I wish I had been wrong.

Turn the clock forward: I’m writing again after a 1.5 hour break (was “mustering”) after that sound. My new location is closer to that sound. I could see the lights from the emergency vehicles and gauging by the length of time “mustering” I knew it couldn’t be good. As time passed, I couldn’t help but do a sign of the cross - on more than one ocassion. I knew some needed it and who am I to deny such a request?

We won’t learn details until tomorrow, but it’s pretty safe to say that some folks on base here need our prayers tonight more than last night. I am counting the days until I leave here and it can’t come soon enough. Although I’ve recently listed some of the things I will not miss, I will miss the people and a part of me will feel guilty for leaving others here. That’s something that will always weigh heavily on my mind and something I will never forget!!

Thank you to Our Brave Men and Women…wherever they may be tonight. I will go to sleep tonight with a heavy heart knowing that someone is in need of my prayers and likely a lot more help than what my prayers have to offer.