I often check this blog. I'm always curious to see if Chelsea's posted something new, if someone actually commented, or see what the weather's like where the boys are at. Today, I noticed that Steve has been away for 4 months time. It's hard to believe that he's been in Iraq that long already. I know for Chelsea, Logan and his parents it's seemed longer, I'm sure. I wonder sometimes what Steve has been doing. How things are for him. If he's warm, happy. I sure hope so.

My mom finished up the stockings to be sent to the Marines. I am proud to report that over 10,000 pounds of stockings were sent to the troops. That made a total of 1,500 soldiers that received them. This included Steve and his troop. I'm so proud of my mom for making a difference. I'm sure it put a smile on all of their faces, at least for a moment. She worked so hard on this project and it's an ongoing job for her. Good job mom and all of those who donated time, money and effort!

Christmas Kisses

The WWE Tribute to the Troops was on tv last night... Logan got to see his daddy for the 1st time since August. Let's just say that Logan gave him tons of kisses to make up for the past few months! He would kiss the tv and tap on the glass- he was excited to see his daddy!

Finally an update

Steve's mom called me today to tell me that she spoke to Steve. Apparently he is doing great and he is as happy as can be expected...

Steve is a big fan of wrestling (don't ask me why!) so he was excited that all of the wrestlers were in Iraq filming their holiday special. I guess Steve was able to sit front row for the filming of that. I think that it's supposed to be on tv December 24th @ 9/8 CT so Logan and I will be watching that to see if we can spot daddy! And I thought that I was done watching wrestling! Ugh!

That's all I know! I'll post something if I find anything else out!

Fievel Goes West!

Oops, I mean Chad goes to Korea. He recently received word that he will be stationed in Korea for about 6 weeks. He is scheduled to leave early February of the New Year. He is very excited to train others on the amphibious assault vehicles. Congratulations to Chad!

We haven't heard much from Steve lately. I assume he has been busy protecting our freedom. It's a busy job and we're proud of him for doing it! Please keep our soldiers in your thoughts as they are overseas.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Chad came home from California with a WHOLE BUNCH of buddies for the holiday. It was great to see them all. His fellow Marines were grateful for a home cooked meal and definitely got their fill of 2 turkey's, 1 ham and much more! Thanks to our mom for a great day filled with lots of food and laughter.

As for Steve's Thanksgiving, I'm not sure how he celebrated. I have been meaning to ask Chelsea if she has heard anything recently. I did see on TV that the troops were given a turkey dinner, but I'm not sure how great it was. I hope all deployed soldiers know that we are all so thankful to have them protecting our freedom.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and are looking forward to the holidays ahead!


Also, Happy 1st birthday to Logan! He sure wishes his daddy (Steve) was here to celebrate with him!

*I'll post a pic of everyone very soon!

I'm sure you've seen The California Fires on the news recently. It seems Chad is having a fun time dodging those at the base. I thought I would report back to tell you he is safe where he is at, although they weren't far off! Apparently they evacuated everyone at one point, but allowed them back. Don't worry, he's fine!

On the other hand, Steve is obviously still in Iraq. He has nearly been away for 2 months if you are checking the ticker at the bottom of the page. I will ask Chelsea for an update on just what and how he is doing.

If you are already thinking about the holiday season, here is something for you. When you are making out your holiday card list this year, please include the following and pass on the word.

A Recovering American soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue,NW
Washington,D.C. 20307-5001

One

I was talking to my sister yesterday and venting about my current stresses. She always tries to bring me back to reality-thanks! Then, this morning my son woke me up at 3:47 a.m. for about the 2nd week in a row. That is what led me to this checking this blog, this early. Today I noticed on the "Steve's Deployed Ticker" that he has been away for ONE month ONE week and ONE day.


My point is, my stresses are so minor compared to Steve's right now. I think this blog has been a good reminder to me to check myself and re-evaluate. Steve has been in a foreign country which is in shambles for a while now.

Life is great, but sometimes exhausting. I'm grateful my stresses are mine and not that of Steve's right now.

Meanwhile, Logan (Chelsea & Steve's baby) is growing quickly! He will be ONE year old in a matter of weeks. He is getting so big and looks so much like daddy.

Update on Chad: Chad is still in 29 Palms training. He has big plans of bringing 14 Marines home with him for Thanksgiving. Apparently they will all be eating with our family! That should be interesting. It's always good to see him. Plus, his little nephews and niece miss him so much.

"Be kind to strangers, for everyone you meet may be fighting a harder battle."