Keep My Soldier Safe

VALOUR-IT TEAM ARMY

2010-10-29T07:41:00.004-05:00

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN...

Project Valour-IT, in memory of SFC William V. Ziegenfuss, helps provide voice-controlled/adaptive laptop computers and other technology to support Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines recovering from hand wounds and other severe injuries.

GO TEAM ARMY

TAKING A BREAK...

2010-01-03T12:45:00.005-06:00

It's much needed and I'm not sure when I will be back, but I am sure I will be at some point. It's been one crazy year for me, and I feel like this is a much needed break...

Michael will be on special assignment with the Army for about 6 months here in the states, so hopefully my sleepless nights are over with for a long time.

I'll still be on Facebook for all that are on there. Don't think I could give that up.

Alexis at 6-weeks

CHRISTMAS DAY WITH VETERANS

2009-12-25T15:35:00.006-06:00

A day that I will cherish and never forget. Spend several hours at the local VA Nursing Home with some of our Veterans.

CHRISTMAS IN BUDE

2009-12-24T22:59:00.006-06:00

Merry Christmas to all. Christmas in Bude is always the absolute best...

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-24T07:22:00.003-06:00

Hoping that this is a wonderful Christmas. It should be since Michael is home is Alexis is here. Just does not seem like Christmas for some reason this year. We will head to Bude to spend the evening, so I will post pictures of Christmas in Bude when I return tonight.

GOING DARK FOR THE DAY

2009-12-16T05:12:00.002-06:00

CJ is someone everyone should know. Over the last few months, C.J. has seen an issue with a local school taken to his command who failed to back him, and has even seen his effort to deal with PTSD, and lead his men in same by example, used against him as a part of this. C.J. has had to sell his blog to help raise funds for his defense in this matter.

The milblogging world - this blog included - will be "going dark" for the day in support of fellow milblogger, CJ Grisham.

Milblogs have been a vital link in getting accurate news and information about the military, and military operations, to the public. They have provided vital context and analysis on issues critical to operations and to the informed electorate critical to the Republic.

On Wednesday 16 December, readers will have the chance to imagine a world without milblogs, and to do something about it. Those participating are urging their readers to contact their elected representatives in Congress, and to let their opinions be known to them and to other leaders in Washington.

Some milblogs will remain silent for several days; some just for the day. All have agreed to keep the post about the silence and C.J. at the top of their blogs until Friday 18 December.

DADDY AND ALEXIS

2009-12-07T05:21:00.000-06:00

One proud Dad. He sure loves his little princess.

SNOW IN MISSISSIPPI

2009-12-04T22:08:00.004-06:00

It's very rare to see snow in Mississippi. It is actually sticking. So far about an inch I think.

A GREAT DAY INDEED...

2009-11-26T18:27:00.006-06:00

This was not everyone. I think the final count was 43.

My Monk showing out for the kids.

Kristy feeding Alexis.

P.S. The stores open at 2200 tonight and yes I will be out fighting the crowd finishing up my christmas shopping.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL...

2009-11-25T06:09:00.002-06:00

Hope everyone has a wonder Thanksgiving as I know I will since our Soldier and his new baby girl and wife will be joining us this year. We won't have to leave an empty chair as he is home and if all goes as planned he won't be returning to Iraq EVER...

I am again hosting my Dad's whole side of the family at my house. It will be close to 50 here this year and my new house is almost 1/2 the size of my previous one, but I promised my grandmother before she passed away years ago that I would carry on the tradition and have Thanksgiving at my house. I'm a glutton for punishment I do believe. Actually I love having it at my house, just hate the clean up afterwards.

I'm off work until Monday of next week, and I plan on enjoying every single minute of my time off by spending it with the ones I love.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Please keep our TROOPS that are in harms way in your thoughts and prayers on this day.

Pictures of Alexis

2009-11-23T12:23:00.005-06:00

Daddy checking her out to make sure all toes and fingers are there.

One proud Daddy.

Thursday when I picked him up from the airport and we surprised Kristy at the Hospital.

Leann holding Alexis.
Alexis's first kiss from her MiTa.

JoJo (Kristy's Mom) showing off our little princess just moments after she was born.

Her Daddy is spoiling her every second he gets the chance. They were at the house last night visiting and showing her off to my sister and her family.

Daddy meeting Alexis for the first time

2009-11-19T16:55:00.003-06:00

Priceless

Promise to post more pictures later. Alexis was born November 17, 2009 via an emergency C-section @ 1146 am, weighing in at 5 lbs 2 ounces and 18 inches long. 6 weeks early. Mom and baby are doing fine now. It's been a long 2 days trying to get Alexis's daddy home from Iraq.

Sorry for not posting any sooner, just wanted Daddy to meet her first before we let everyone else.

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!!!

2009-11-11T04:01:00.002-06:00

Thanks to all our Vets, past and present for all your sacrifices that you have made for our Country.

Our veteran is serving his second tour in Iraq on this Veterans Day. Thank you son for making me one proud Mom. I love and miss you very much. Counting the days down until you are home for R&R.

9 year old singing The Star Spangled Banner

2009-11-09T20:35:00.001-06:00

Our England Friends

2009-11-01T12:24:00.003-06:00

It's been a very busy weekend. Friday evening Dad, Mom, Owen and Dawn (friends from England) came to the house for the weekend. We shopped, shopped some more, went to see my baby sister and her family (which is also in the photo) and then we ended up at a Japanese Steak House for supper last night with Kristy. I don't think they have ever seen a show put on like our chef put on last night. It was great. They left earlier this morning headed to meet Dee and her family for lunch then they were going to head back home.

It was great spending time with family and wonderful friends.

We were all able to chat with Michael for a little while online. He is counting the days down now until he arrives home for R&R/Baby's birth.

Alexis's new outfit

2009-10-20T16:46:00.004-05:00

I just could not resist yesterday when I passed by the Army Surplus store at Camp Shelby on my way to the Coast. Thought this would make a great Daddy/daughter photo when he gets home.

Stacy Lee's iPhone

BABY SHOWER

2009-10-18T06:57:00.007-05:00

Alexis's first diamond necklace and earings. Yes she is already spoiled rotten.

Kristy and one proud Paw Paw.

It was a great baby shower. The baby is set to go, except for diapers. I think she only got one package of diapers.

BABY SHOWER

2009-10-17T16:51:00.001-05:00

The first baby shower was great. Kristy got so many nice things.

Pictures to follow.

4 LONG MONTHS

2009-10-16T16:24:00.002-05:00

So, I've been thinking, and yes that can get really scary. If Michael were in the the Air Force, he would be coming home right now, as they only do 4-month tours most of the time.

Just a thought and I will share it with him the next time we talk/chat/text. Thinking he might agree with me right about now, as he is really missing home.

Can't a Mom dream or wish at least once during a year long deployment that something like that could happen.

JUST SAYING...

HURRY UP PLEASE...

2009-10-13T12:28:00.004-05:00

It's been 116 days since his BOOTS HIT THE GROUND and only 71 DAYS UNTIL ALEXIS IS DUE.

I think we are all ready for this baby to get here.

Michael text me Thursday night and then called me Friday night and we talked for almost an hour. It had been almost two weeks since I had heard from him. He must know after about 12-14 days he must call so I can just hear his voice. Lots going on with him. He is give out. Working 12 hour shifts, 7 days a week is getting the best of him I do believe. He is exhausted. I can hear it in his voice.

I did tell him that we can start our countdown now for his R&R.

We all think that the baby will arrive before he gets here. Just a feeling we all have. For Michael's sake, I really want her to wait on her Daddy though.

Yesterday I was also able to text with him off and one while I was out and about enjoying my day off. Nothing better than hearing from him.

I'm missing him really bad right now. Sure could use one of his big hugs that is knows how to give at just the right times.

That's all for now I guess.

SHE'S READY FOR ALEXIS TO GET HERE...

2009-10-07T12:18:00.002-05:00

She is just too cute with her little belly. The photographer took lots of pictures of Kristy with a flag draped around her and then put them on a CD for her to mail to Michael. He should have them by now hopefully. I don't think he has time to check the blog, so I think I am safe to go ahead and post these.

The doctor said she could go back to work, but to take it easy and no standing on her feet a lot.

HOSPITALS

2009-09-29T06:35:00.000-05:00

I sure do hate them. Spent Saturday night and up into the wee hours Sunday morning there with Kristy. She has been put on strict bed rest by her doctor. She has a UTI, and he gave her some antibiotics and put her on a low sodium diet for all the swelling. He also put her on strict bed rest until he figures out why she is swelling up so bad. I did not know until we were told by the nurse that a UTI can cause you to go into labor. She had several contractions while they were monitoring her and the baby. It's way too early for Alexis to make her grand entrance at 6 months, so lets hope the bed rest and antibiotic will work.

Michael had come online about the time we were headed to the emergency room with Kristy, so he was very worried about her and would not get off the computer until we had gotten all the test results in. He was exhausted by the time we finally figured out what was wrong with Kristy. I was able to record the baby's heart beat and emailed it to him. He thought that was pretty cool. Thank goodness for iphones and an application called voice memos that I was able to download. He feels helpless being 7000 miles away, but he knew that Kristy's Mom and I, along with her best friend were taking excellent care of her.

She will now go to the doctor once a week until Alexis is born.

Will update when we know something else.

GOLD STAR MOTHER'S DAY

2009-09-27T06:06:00.000-05:00

Today is a day that we are to honor our Gold Star Mothers. Words can't express the thanks that I have for these Mothers who have given so much.

THANK YOU TO ALL THE GOLD STAR MOTHERS.

3 LONG MONTHS

2009-09-17T05:22:00.000-05:00

It sure seems like longer than 3 months since his boots hit the ground in Kuwait. Melinda can probably tell you right off the top of her head how much time our guys have left. Me, I don't even want to think about it.

Sure miss his smile. He called again Tuesday night and everything is good with him. He's excited about the baby girl that will be here around Christmas time. He's got lots going on, and will be able to share once everything is final and he gives me to go ahead to tell what all is going on with him. It's all good, I promise.

REMEMBERING 9/11

2009-09-11T19:58:00.003-05:00

Jackson's local Channel 12 interviewed me today. She caught me off guard, which I guess is a good thing as it did not give me any time whatsoever to think about it.

PROJECT 2996

2009-09-10T12:01:00.000-05:00

Remembering the victims of 9/11

A day that changed the world.

Jose R. Nunez of New York, NY was 42 years young when he lost his life on September 11, 2001. Jose left behind a wife and three daughters, Mirelys, Marelnys and Melissa.

Jose was a food runner with Windows on the World.

I have struggled for days now trying to figure out what I would write on this day about Jose R. Nunez. Very little can be found on Jose. I have searched and searched trying to find any information on Jose so that I could write this tribute.

I know that my struggles of trying to figure out what to write are nothing compared to Jose's wife and three girls that were left behind after 9/11. I am hoping that Jose's family has found peace in knowing that their loved one is now in a better place. My heart aches for this family and all the other 2,995 victims of 9/11.

It's been eight long years that Jose's family have missed and mourned him.

Jose, I remember you on this 8th anniversary and I only wish that I could have learned more about you and your life.

Rest in Peace Jose...

FINALLY

2009-09-10T10:41:00.001-05:00

IT'S GOING TO BE A GIRL.

Sonogram this morning told us what we already thought, but we just needed it to be confirmed.

Seems as though it's time to start shopping now.

Michael called last night and he and I talked for an hour and a half. The delay was terrible, but so worth getting to hear his voice. The excitement in his voice about finding out today if the baby was a girl or a boy was overwhelming him I do believe.

He is working night right now. Says he prefers nights over the days and said that it was much cooler at night. Other than that, he is good. He's so ready for this deployment to be over with. We are keeping our fingers crossed that he can come home for the baby's birth.

4TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF KATRINA

2009-08-29T05:25:00.000-05:00

It seems as if it were only yesterday when Katrina hit. It will be a memory that I will never forget. Oh how I would like too, but not gonna happen. Mississippi has learned so much over the last 4 years. We are still trying to put our state back together. Too many emotions to try to rehash that awful day.

Michael had just left going back to Iraq after his 16 days of R&R. 4 years later he is back in Iraq for his second tour.

August 28, 2005.

August 29, 2005.

August 30, 2005.

Where were you one year ago today.

Two year anniversary.

Three year anniversary.

PEARL, MS SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

2009-08-24T05:36:00.002-05:00

Pearl soldier killed in Afghanistan

A soldier from Pearl was killed Friday during combat in Kunar Province, Afghanistan.

Sgt. Matthew Ingram, 25, died of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. The blast occurred while his unit was under small-arms fire from enemy forces, according to a news release Sunday evening from the Department of Defense.

Ingram was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.

Ingram was serving his second tour of duty and had been in Afghanistan since May. His first tour was in Iraq from August 2004 to July 2005.

He enlisted in the Army in 2003.

At least three other service members with connections to Mississippi have died overseas in the last month.

On Aug. 1, two Mississippi National Guard soldiers were killed in Afghanistan.

Sgt. 1st Class Severin Summers, 43, who recently had been living in Bentonia and Natchez, and Sgt. 1st Class Alejandro Granado, 42, of Longview, Texas, were killed by an improvised explosive device in Qole Gerdsar, Afghanistan.

Summers and Granado were assigned to the Mississippi Army National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group, based in Jackson.

Summers left for Afghanistan on July 2 - a repeat trip for the Special Forces soldier and Ranger who has served nearly 20 years in the military.

Army Staff Sgt. Johnny Roosevelt Polk died July 25 from wounds he suffered when his vehicle was struck by an anti-tank grenade July 23 in Iraq. The 39-year-old was a Gulfport native.

ANOTHER CALL

2009-08-23T09:40:00.004-05:00

It's been a very hectic week around here. Michael called again on Tuesday, which was very unexpected. He sounded great, but said he was tired. I received a card from him yesterday and yes it made me cry. He's missing home terrible.

I ordered these two shirts for Kristy and I and they came in yesterday. I also ordered Kristy's Mom one as well.

I'm anticipating that it's going to be another crazy week.

FINALLY

2009-08-17T05:12:00.001-05:00

He finally called yesterday afternoon around 1500 and we were able to talk for about 19 minutes. He is good, sounded great and was headed to bed to try to get some rest.

NOTHING

2009-08-14T05:55:00.002-05:00

It's been since Monday of this week since Kristy or I have heard from Michael on IM, and its been since August 4th since we have received a phone call from him.

He's sick again, and not sure if they have put him back in isolation or not.

This waiting game is getting the best of the both of us. My phone rings daily or I either get an IM from family members asking if we have heard from him, and I have to say those dreaded words "NO NOT TODAY"...

Not sure how many more days of silence either of us can handle, and just think, it's only been 56 long days since his boots hit the ground.

DEATH OF 3 MS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS

2009-08-04T15:49:00.004-05:00

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died from wounds suffered when insurgents attacked their vehicle with an improvised explosive device Aug. 2 in Qole Gerdsar, Afghanistan.

Killed were:

Capt. Ronald G. Luce Jr., 27, of Fayetteville, N.C.;

Sgt. 1^st Class Alejandro Granado, 42, of Fairfax, Va.; and

Sgt. 1^st Class Severin W. Summers III, 43, of Bentonia, Miss.

All three soldiers were members of the Mississippi Army National Guard, and assigned to the 2^nd Battalion, 20^th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Jackson, Miss.

For more information media may contact the U.S. Army Special Operations Command public affairs office at (910) 432-6005; after hours (910) 689-6187, or visit http://news.soc.mil .

The Clarion Ledger Reports the following:

The Mississippi National Guard has confirmed the weekend deaths of two soldiers who were serving in Afghanistan.

Sgt. First Class Severin W. Summers, 43, of Bentonia and Sgt. First Class Alejandro Granado, 42, of Longview, Texas, were killed by an improvised explosive device Sunday in Qole Gerdsar, Afghanistan.

Both were assigned to the Mississippi Army National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group based in Jackson.

"We once again are painfully reminded of the high cost of freedom," Maj. Gen. William L. Freeman Jr., adjutant general of Mississippi, said in a news release. "Severin and Alejandro were two of the best soldiers in the Mississippi Army National Guard and will be greatly missed."

Funeral arrangements have not been announced for either.

An Alabama Army National Guardsman attached to the battalion, Capt. Ron Luce, also died in the incident, according to the news release.

"The deaths of these brave soldiers are a great loss for the state and nation," Gov. Haley Barbour said in the release."Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families and friends."

THAT SMILE

2009-07-31T13:45:00.002-05:00

I miss so much. He sure knows how to brighten up my day. He has finally found some internet that is fast enough to use a web cam and to be able to see us as well. What a way to start my weekend.

MICHAEL AND RONALD

2009-07-28T16:42:00.001-05:00

THAT'S MY BOY...

SURE CAN MAKE ME SMILE.

Song by Dustin Evans

2009-07-28T06:01:00.002-05:00

This song was on my mind last night when I tried to close my eyes and get some sleep.

Then I found this one...

Baby's first outfit

2009-07-23T14:04:00.003-05:00

Michael said that I would never find anything on it that said "MiTa", so I had to prove him wrong. The first question he ask me was what colors did I have it done in. I could not think of a better color scheme that red, white and blue.

I KNEW IT WAS BOUND TO HAPPEN

2009-07-20T17:49:00.003-05:00

I missed a call from Michael. Don't ask me how, but I did and I just can't seem to stop beating myself up over it. At least he was able to get Kristy. We had not heard from him in several days. He's been very busy and not enough time to get online. At least I will have the voice message that I can listen to over and over and over again.

FINALLY

2009-07-17T06:19:00.000-05:00

He has finally made it to his destination in the Sand after spending a month in Kuwait. He's feeling great he says. He is trying to track down a package that had arrived before he did. He located one yesterday, but still searching for the other one. He received the first package that Kristy and I packed up for him, but not the one that his Grandmother sent.

He was able to call and talk to Kristy for just a few minutes yesterday afternoon, just long enough to tell her that he had made it safely and ask her to call me to let me know as well.

He's not sure just what he will be doing, but knows that it will be in 12 hour shifts. This deployment is so different from the first one. No cameras, no cell phones and all internet is monitored very closely. So, I know very little about what he will be doing, which might be for the better.

Not sure just how much access he will have to a phone or yahoo instant messenger.

Will keep everyone posted and thanks for all the calls checking on him while he was sick.

HEARING HIS VOICE

2009-07-14T14:30:00.001-05:00

Oh my gosh. Nothing sweeter than hearing his voice. He sounded great. We got to talk for almost 30 minutes. The connection was not too bad for being thousands of miles away. He is stuck in Kuwait for several more days until the sand storms subside.

I don't recall this many sand storms during his first deployment. It seems like they are having them daily now.

I'm thinking that I can now rest/sleep a little better since I was able to talk to him.

He was released from isolation today and says he is feeling much better. He's ready to get to his FOB and the others from his unit.

24 days is way too long to go without talking to him. If he only knew how good it was to hear his voice.

Now I just need to get the family back into reading the blog so that I don't have to repeat everything so many times.

IT'S BEEN A LONG 9 DAYS

2009-07-13T05:33:00.001-05:00

Not a lot to tell except that Michael has been very sick for the last 9 days. We are hoping that they release him today or tomorrow and he can head to his FOB with the rest of his unit. He is much better he says.

He got sick last Saturday and they have had him in isolation ever since with about 12 others. They are still waiting on blood work to come back from Egypt before they will let him move one. He says that he does not wish this on anyone.

His Paw Paw and Grandmother saw him on the web cam on Saturday and Dad said that he looked pale, but considering that he had been sick for the past week, he looked great.

He is ready to get to his FOB where all the others from his unit are. Keep your fingers crossed that today will be the day.

ANOTHER YELLOW RIBBON TIED

2009-07-05T15:09:00.006-05:00

Kristy and I have been busy all weekend long. We spent the day in Louisiana yesterday with my parents at our Fish Camp, then ended up at their house in Bude and stayed the night. There is never a dull moment in Bude, Mississippi. Lots of excitement going on and that will call for post right by itself, and I don't have the energy to tell it all.

Kristy received a text this morning about 0330 from Michael. Not quite sure what is wrong, but he is very sick he said. Said he would let us hear from him later. Nothing worse than knowing that he is sick and there is nothing whatsoever we can do about it 7,000 miles away.

HAPPY 4TH...

2009-07-04T06:23:00.003-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!!!

This will be the second July 4th in 4 years that Michael will not be with us because he is away serving our Country. He sure makes me so proud. He's got a lot going on today, and if all goes as planned I will be able to tell you about it later tonight or tomorrow.

Please keep all our Soldiers in your prayers today.

WHAT WE WOULD GIVE

2009-07-02T18:56:00.003-05:00

Just to hear his voice...

Tomorrow will be 14 days since we have talked to him on the phone. It seems like it has been a lot longer than that to me. I can only imagine how Kristy feels.

It's been several days since I talked with him via yahoo IM until today. It was getting late his time and he did not have much time to chat, but just wanted to let me know he was fine. He was having trouble texting with Kristy, so he had me call her to tell her that the internet connection was not too good.

He's got lots going on, and said it might be a few more days before he could get to a phone to call. He says that the lines are so long for the phones. From what I am gathering from others, the wait at times is hours for the phones. Hopefully that will all change once he is settled on the FOB.

Kristy and I have a busy weekend planed. We are headed to Louisiana for a family get together on Saturday, then going to stop back by and spend the night at my parents house and go to church with them on Sunday. Their church has 8 soldiers with ties to the war. Not sure what all we will be doing, but will make sure and take lots of pictures.

Happy 4th to you all.

YELLOW RIBBON CEREMONY

2009-06-28T15:08:00.009-05:00

It was a very nice ceremony today. Kristy was a little nervous, but she did great.

MISSING HIM

2009-06-26T18:30:00.004-05:00

Gosh how I miss that smile. It's been a tough week for Kristy and I. We have had a couple of bad days between the two of us. We have chatted off and on with Michael several times, but it never seems like enough.

We are going to get a care package together tomorrow and get it off to him. He has requested several items that he wants, then Kristy and I are headed south to Michael's best friend's wedding. He has known Zack for 15 years. They have a lot of great memories growing up together. Sure wish he could have been here to go with us.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T17:12:00.005-05:00

The World's best DAD. Happy Father's Day Daddy. He had a wonderful day. His three girls were there and he got a new laptop. He is all fixed up now. He was on the phone with my brother trying to figure out all his clues to get to his laptop.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's, especially those who are away from home serving our great country. A special Happy Father's Day to my son who will soon be a first time Dad.

THANKS USO

2009-06-20T06:37:00.003-05:00

I was enjoying an evening last night by a friends pool and at 6:18 p.m. an unfamiliar number appeared on my caller ID on my cell and I answered it and it was Michael. Thanks to the USO they can use the phone for free for 20 minutes. I am not sure if thats every day, but whatever, we will take it. He says that the internet is free as well. I think it also has a time limit of 20 minutes. Not long when you have a wife and mom who your trying to talk to. We talked for several minutes, and then it was Kristy's turn.

Think it will take a week or so for him to adjust to the time change. It was 2:18 am his time and he said that he had been sleeping since 5:00 pm.

Kristy and I have a busy day today. We are headed out bright and early this morning to get her a webcam and then we will go back to their house and get it all set up so that she will be able to communicate and see Michael.

Tonight we are headed to Trustmark Park to watch the Military baseball team play.

BOOTS ON THE GROUND

2009-06-18T22:12:00.001-05:00

Last night was a very long night for all. Not much sleep for any of us. Kristy did not get home until 0200 this morning, as she wanted to see the bus leave Camp Shelby. I did not warn her how hard that would be, but I felt for her and Michael for several hours as he was on the bus and she was standing outside watching. I know that feeling all to well. Did that same thing one cold night in January 2005, probably stood in that same location that she stood in.

We were all burning the texting up. Lots of copying and pasting going on. Very emotional night/morning for us all.

Heard from him again this morning on his first stop, which was still in the USA, then they were headed across the ocean.

He was at another undisclosed location this afternoon and was able to chat via yahoo instant messenger and text with him. I forgot how good that "YAHOO" sounds when he comes online. It's been so long since we had to use the instant messenger, but it won't be a problem getting back in the swing of things.

So I can now say as of this moment...BOOTS ARE ON THE GROUND, and we can start counting the days until he comes back home.

Stay Safe and we love you very much Michael.

JUNE 13TH.....

2009-06-14T09:43:00.008-05:00

It was a long day for us all. Think I walked in the door around 1:15 am this morning very tired. Kristy decided to drive on home, so she was closer to 2:00 getting home. It was a very quiet drive down. We stopped at Rasing Cane's for supper and met up with another soldier and her other half and then we headed further south and finally got in the South Gate at Camp Shelby around 8:45 last night. They had formation at 9:30 pm and then we were able to hand around until around 11:45 pm. Everyone was tired I think.

They bought the build a bear yesterday, and it has a message for the baby inside of it along with a little heart. The bear is the newest on the market Kristy said.

We heard rumors last night of several dates when they will be shipping out, so I guess we will sit back and see which one comes true.

FAMILY DINNER

2009-06-12T22:22:00.004-05:00

Jerry's Fish House was the place to be tonight. Just a small family get together for my sister and her family to visit with Michael before he leaves. We all left with a full stomach and then headed to my house for a little more visiting before everyone called it a night.

155TH SEND OFF CEREMONY

2009-06-09T14:24:00.008-05:00

It was one HOT morning to say the least. The ceremony was not but about 35 minutes long, but we had to arrive early to make sure that we had a seat. Then the traffic getting off the base was worse than I had ever seen it.

We are counting the days down. Not many to count, but they are being counted. It's going to be a busy next few days trying to visit everyone before he has to head out, so it might be quiet around here for a few days.

As Michael's Paw Paw said to the lady sitting in front of him. You see my grandson, he right there in the camo uniform...Can't you see him!!!

Here are all the photos that were taken today.

D-DAY

2009-06-06T13:52:00.002-05:00

A day to remember.

COUNTING THE DAYS

2009-05-29T12:49:00.002-05:00

Not what I really want to be thinking about, but don't have much of a choice at this point. What's really sad is that the time is not creeping, its zooming right on by us and not a thing in the word I can do about it. Life is just not always fair.

I said that I was not going to count the days this time, but without even thinking about it, I know exactly how many days we have left until we tell him to BE SAFE...

He's got a lot more on his mind before he goes this time. He's going to miss so much over the next 10 months. He will become a daddy for the very first time and yes I will be an official Grandmother. [I have let the cat out of the bag] He's going to miss out on some very important doctor's appointments, but we all are ready with our video cameras to capture each and every minute for him.

If all goes well next week he will be able to get a pass and go with Kristy to have her first sonogram done. That will be the only doctor's appointment that he will be able to go to since he will be thousands of miles away.

I'm too young to be called Grandmother or Granny, so I think we will go with "MiTa" [pronounced 'myta']. It's different. Who knows, guess we could just wait and see whatever flies out of the little one's mouth the first time he/she wants something.

Going to be one spoiled baby for sure.

FAMILY DAY AT CAMP SHELBY

2009-05-25T18:04:00.011-05:00

He was very happy to see us all. There's no better way to spend Memorial Day than with approximately 111 Soldiers who are getting ready to deploy to Iraq in a few short weeks. They needed this family day as much as the families needed it. Thanks to their Company Commander for making this day possible.

Amber, Charles, Donna (Kristy's Mom), myself, Brandon Godfrey (MP at Camp Shelby who is a very good friend of Michael's), Michael and Kristy.

It was a long quiet ride back home. Very few words were said between us girls. It was all I could do to keep the tears from flowing. I think all I managed to say the whole ride home was to tell Kristy that it does not get easier, that it will actually get much harder over the next several weeks as we say those dreaded words (GOOD-BYE) time and time again.

Our next big day will be June 2nd, and we are all excited about that day. More to come about that big day when it gets here.

ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL

2009-05-24T08:20:00.003-05:00

We will have the honor tomorrow of spending the day with Michael and lots of other soldiers at Camp Shelby. i will be sure and post pictures once we get back tomorrow night. Our days with him are very limited and we cherish each and every one of them. In just a few weeks he will be back in the sand serving our country once again.

As tomorrow approaches, please remember those that gave some, but mostly remember those that GAVE ALL and their families.

TRAIL OF HONORS

2009-05-18T06:30:00.000-05:00

Lots of pictures from the past three days. Today is the big day when all the motorcycles come roaring in at approximately 11:00 this morning, then they will head out and make a stop in Meridian, then on to the Wall in WAshington, DC. Lots of Metal of Honor recipients were on hand for the event. What an honor to be able to sit and talk with these fine veterans.

ONE OF THOSE DAYS

2009-05-13T12:09:00.003-05:00

And I'm sure there will be many more to come in the next 11 months. Just thinking of all the things he will miss out on. A lot of FIRSTS for him. I would do just about anything for him to be here, but nothing I can do to make that happen. Lots of pictures and videos will be taken I can assure you of that.

FLOWERS

2009-05-11T18:22:00.003-05:00

He's at Camp Shelby preparing for his second deployment but still managed to get these delivered today. I was surprised when I received a call this afternoon telling me that I had a delivery on my front porch. The card brought tears to my eyes. He never ceases to amaze me.

Thanks Michael and Kristy.

MOM AND HER 3 GIRLS

2009-05-10T16:12:00.001-05:00

We had a great Mother's Day in Bude.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-10T06:31:00.003-05:00

I'm headed south to spend the day with my Mother, and I will keep my fingers crossed that I will be able to get a phone call from Camp Shelby today.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE MILITARY MOTHER'S.

ESPECIALLY ALL THE GOLD STAR MOTHERS...

JUST DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THESE 3

2009-05-07T12:23:00.001-05:00

At least not until I get to hear the pitter patter of little feet at my house one day...

Makayla, Logan and new baby Gavin...

BACK UP YOUR COMPUTER

2009-05-07T12:15:00.001-05:00

LESSON WELL LEARNED TODAY FOR ME...

It's not good news. Just picked up my macbook from the Apple Store and they were not able to retrieve any of my pictures. Said my computer was just like new. Told the guy that he did not understand, that I had 11,000 pictures on that computer.

They gave me a card to call a company in California to see if they could possible retrieve my pictures. I have called them, and almost had a heart attack when the guy told me how much it would cost if they could retrieve the pictures.

At this point those pictures are priceless to me, as thousands of them are of Michael.

I will ship the hard drive to California tomorrow and see what they can do...

I'm not too happy, but don't have a choice if I want my pictures...

JUST A FEW PICTURES

2009-05-05T05:09:00.001-05:00

Until I get my MacBook's hard drive replaced, this is it for pictures. I downloaded all the pictures to my apple computer that I took over the last few days and then deleted them from my camera. What a big mistake. As soon as I got through downloading them, my computer froze up. Apple is not suppose to do this. I have googled this morning the problem and what is showing up, and everything leads to the hard drive, so I will be headed off to the Apple store today to see if they can fix it. If not, I'm not going to be happy. My computer has over 11,000 pictures on it. So until then, this is it for pictures.

Formation right before they were told to LOAD THE BUSSES...

Formation before the ceremony started.

Company Commander during an interview with the local radio station.

It was a sad day, but hopefully we will see him one more time in June before they fly out.

LONG DAY

2009-05-04T14:53:00.000-05:00

It's been on heck of a long day to say the least. Lots of tears, lots of rain and then lots of hot sun all in one day. Will try to share pictures if I can get my apple to act right later tonight. Work is calling me right now.

THE LAST NIGHT

2009-05-03T21:21:00.002-05:00

Yes, this is the last night. We're tired and everyone is going to call it a night. We were able to pick him up about 1430 and we have been going ever since then.

Bittersweet...

Pictures tomorrow hopefully.

Thinking about Melinda and her family as well since this is their last night together as well.

HEADING SOUTH

2009-05-03T09:42:00.002-05:00

We are almost ready to head south to get Michael and enjoy the afternoon/night with him. I think Grandmother and Paw Paw have bought out the store with all his favorites, oreo cookies, laffy taffy, smarties and who know what else...

I have the camera and the Flip ready to go, and will post later tonight once we stop running around.

IT'S ONLY BEEN LESS THAN 24 HOURS

2009-05-02T07:09:00.008-05:00

and we have decided that we will head to Hattiesburg tomorrow and just get a room so that we won't have to get up so early. The Grandparents will join Kristy and I, and who knows what will happen. Since Michael got Kristy a pass to get on base before he left, we will be able to get on base without a problem. Never know what will take place when you have a determined Mom and a wife whose missing him already.

We will take lots of pictures.

One day down and lots more to go...

Just have to share this comment that Dan (Cathy's Son) left here. Talk about bringing tears to my eyes.

Comment from Dan:

"It's almost been 3 years since my time in the Army, and a big tour in Iraq ended.

I am now one of those outsiders, that I use to criticize while I was going through my deployment, for not being able to understand what it was like on the inside. Unfortunately, I can no longer say I know what it's like, because I don't.

Since coming out of the military I have been acclimated to the all of the other over-exaggerated stuff that pales in comparison to the hard but important decisions that have to be made during a deployment cycle. Yes, I am now one of those civilians trying to read the pysche of a soldier going through it All... Over... Again...

I rarely check this site, just because I don't keep up too much on my life from three years ago. So needless to say I was taken back a bit to read of deployments and things that use to loom very large in my life.

At a ripe old 26 I am now one of those who are just living life here in the safe and wonderful USA without a clue of sacrifices being made thousands of miles away.

The only thing I can say is that I will pray for you guys and that you, your son and daughter-in-law find a way to get through this one, much like the other one.

God Bless.. and remember that everything happens for a reason.

Sgt. Dan Barno (AKA: J Barnes) (ret.)

OIF 05-06 Camp Habbaniyah Iraq"

HEADED TO CAMP SHELBY

2009-05-01T06:31:00.002-05:00

Today's the day that he heads south for the rest of his training. Then Monday we will get to see them at the send off ceremony and get to eat lunch with them and that's it until June, or at least that is what the rumor is. Who knows maybe we will get to see him sometime between now and the middle of June. While he was training in 2004 at Camp Shelby, we were told the same thing, but we were able to see him quite often, so we shall see what happens this go round.

Not looking forward to the sleepless night that are coming soon.

This has not been a good morning for any of us...

NATIONAL MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH

2009-05-01T04:15:00.002-05:00

"May No Soldier Go Unloved. May No Soldier Walk Alone. May No Soldier Be Forgotten. Until They All Come Home."

As an all out effort to support National Military Appreciation Month, held in May, Soldiers' Angels is asking Americans to show their appreciation for our military by adopting a deployed service member at Soldiers Angels.

This year more than any other, our service men and women need to know they are truly appreciated for their role in protecting and defending our nation’s freedom. It doesn't take much time to become involved with Soldiers' Angels.

To Adopt-A-Hero go to the website Soldiers Angels and click on the ADOPT button. Your commitment each month is simply a letter a week and a small package each month. Join our team. Our nation's heroes need you. Soldiers' Angels is the place to start to show your appreciation.

WHEREAS, The freedom and security that citizens of the United States enjoy today are direct results of the blood shed and continued vigilance given by the United States Armed Forces over the history of our great nation; and

WHEREAS, the sacrifices that such members of the United States Armed Forces and of the family members that support them, have preserved the liberties that have enriched this nation making it unique in the world community; and

WHEREAS, the United States Congress, in two thousand and four, passed a resolution proclaiming May as National Military Appreciation Month, calling all Americans to remember those who gave their lives in defense of freedom and to honor the men and women of all of our Armed Services who have served and are now serving our Country, together with their families; and

WHEREAS, the months of May and June were selected for this display of patriotism because during these months, we celebrate Victory in Europe (VE) Day, Military Spouse Day, Loyalty Day, Armed Forces Day/Week, National Day of Prayer, Memorial Day, Navy Day, Army Day and Flag Day;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Patti Patton-Bader, Founder of Soldiers' Angels, do hereby proclaim the period May 1, through June 14, 2009 as a special time to show appreciation for our Military and proclaim it as NATIONAL MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH

THE COUNTDOWN HAS BEGUN

2009-04-29T04:51:00.003-05:00

Lots of things running through my head at this point. It's getting closer and closer and I don't have a lot to say about it except that its gonna be a long year. I think he has all his ducks in a row as far as getting everything handled before he heads south.

Here's the agenda for the big day:

CO B 106TH BSB

SEND-OFF CEREMONY

AGENDA

MAY 4, 2009

10AM @ TEMPLE BAPTIST CHURCH, OAK GROVE

9:00-9:30 Soldiers/families arrive at Temple Baptist Church

9:30 Accountability Formation

9:30-10:00 Preliminary music with photos of training, yellow ribbon, soldiers, soldiers and

and etc on overhead screens

9:50 Soldiers will enter Worship Center in formation and sit up front/center

10:00 Ceremony begins

10:45 Program concludes

11:00-12:15 Lunch in tent on front lawn for soldier and families

12:15 Formation

12:30 Buses Depart

Bus Route: Hwy 98 through town to 49 South, 49 South to South Gate of Camp Shelby, MS

That will be the last time we see them for a while. Not sure I'm really ready for this, but I don't really have a choice in the matter. Will have to suck it up and carry on.

The Mississippi Patriot Guard Riders will escort the soldiers to Camp Shelby.

Proud Paw Paw and new baby Gavin

2009-04-27T18:20:00.002-05:00

Another baby for Dad to spoil rotten. He sure loves babies. He was on a 9 day motorcycle trip when Gavin was born, and today is the first time he has seen him. Think he brought him back a few gifts from his mountain trip.

IT WAS SO WORTH IT

2009-04-26T07:19:00.003-05:00

Talk about an awesome performance. James Otto was great. He finally came on the stage shortly after 9:00 last night, and right before midnight we were getting our picture made with him. He is coming out with a new song next month, and I have in in video, just have to figure out how to upload it to blogger.

I did not know that he was in the Navy and his father was also in the military. I think I have him on video somewhere thanking our soldiers and will post that as well.

It was so worth not getting home until 0200 this morning.

GIRLS DAY/NIGHT OUT

2009-04-25T04:40:00.002-05:00

Heading east to Meridian today to the Jimmy Rogers Festival to hear/see James Otto perform. It's going to be a great performance. Just us girls. Meridian will never be the same.

JUST CAN'T PULL ANYTHING OVER ON HIM...

2009-04-18T07:09:00.006-05:00

Kristy tried putting this party together without him knowing and I blew it. I text him at 6:00 last night telling him that I was out of town and that my alarm was going off at the house and ask him if he could go over to the house and turn the alarm off. That's when he started getting suspicious. They hopped on the Motorcycle and headed to the house and we all headed to their house to get the party going. He says that he figured that I had something up my sleeve, but once they got here and the alarm was not going off, he then decided that we were trying to pull one over on him.

So, they headed back to their house and the whole way back, he just knew that something was up. He says that he got to thinking about our conversation, and it just did not jive. They pull up at the house and he comes running around the back and we start to walk out and he says "Surprise" to us.

All in all, it was a great party and I kept up with the young ones. I think I got home around midnight.

The cake was made at Kroger. Kristy took a photo to them and for $19.99 they did a wonderful job on the photo cake.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON!!!

2009-04-17T04:36:00.000-05:00

He's 25 today. Four years ago today he turned 21 in the sand box. He thinks its just another day, but it's a very special day for a lot of reasons.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHAEL....I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH...

Co B 106th BSB/155TH SEND OFF CEREMONY

2009-04-14T05:35:00.000-05:00

The time is getting closer. We now have a date for the send off ceremony for his unit.

I had someone ask me yesterday if I was "SCARED". You damn right I am scared to death. Why wouldn't I be. If I weren't scared, I would not be a normal mom.

As the time gets closer, I find myself getting a little more teary eyed each time I think about it. Things are different for this deployment. He is much more wiser and much more mature. He's got a lot more to think about before he leaves this time.

Funny how 4 years sure makes a difference in a young soldier. He is thinking way ahead this time, as with the first deployment he just had himself to worry about. This time he has a new wife, a home and animals to think about.

He brought me his generator yesterday, just in case I need it during hurricane season while he is gone. Think he has Kristy all set at their house as well. She has learned how to drive the zero turn lawn mower and love it she says.

These next few weeks will be filled with lots of emotions I am sure.

HEADED SOUTH TO CHECK SEE THE INJURIES FOR MYSELF

2009-04-10T19:22:00.002-05:00

I have to take a trip south tomorrow to check on my Dad as he had a little accident this week with the hose on the fire truck. Seems as though the hose was turned on just as he was stepping over it, and he tripped. He's pretty banged up they say.

Then we are giving my niece a baby shower. Providing I don't forget the camera, there will be pictures of the hurt/sick/injured and of the mom to be...

THE BEST MOM...

2009-04-07T12:13:00.001-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!

HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY...

ITS OFFICIAL.......

2009-04-06T10:24:00.005-05:00

Short and sweet...

Now the hard work begins for them...

Michael said in the ride back to my office..."You now have a daughter-n-law" YEP I sure do...

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!

2009-04-06T04:40:00.000-05:00

PICTURES TO FOLLOW.....

TWO FULL DAYS

2009-04-04T16:52:00.004-05:00

Of absorbing more important information than I can begin to imagine. It was a great program to attend, and I would do it all over again. Just another step close to this 2nd deployment.

We had supper last night with Zack and Sara. Zack is Michael's best friend from Junior High and High School. I think we finaly got in the bed sometime after midnight. We had lots to catch up on.

Come Monday, I will have something very important to share with you all.

DD93

2009-04-04T04:53:00.000-05:00

You would not think that those two letters and two numbers (DD93)would bring tears to your eyes, but they did yesterday. After yesterday, I think Michael will make a few changes to that form when he returns to Camp Shelby on May 1st. There was also a video talking about making sure that this form was filled out properly just in case, that really was tough to watch.

Today will be another crammed filled 6 hours and then we will be done.

I informed Kristi of this blog yesterday. She had no clue that it had been around since December 2004, and was mesmerized when Michael and I were telling her all about it. I guess I just assumed that he had told her that the last 4 years of his life were plastered on the internet for all to see. She is such a good sport. She is just fine with her picture where all can see.

YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM

2009-04-03T12:19:00.006-05:00

MID DAY POWER NAPS

GENERAL FREEMAN

THE REAL SOON TO BE MARRIED COUPLE

Very interesting program. Learning lots and lots. Way more than I can remember to blog about. Tricare has been the major topic of today...

YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM

2009-04-02T12:01:00.001-05:00

Will be at Camp Shelby for the next two days with Michael and Kristy attending a mandatory Yellow Ribbon Program. This will be good for Kristy as this is all a first for her. Sure wish I knew the right thing to say to make it all okay for her. I am so happy to know that I will be able to count on her throughout this deployment.

She will learn so much over the next two days. I am taking the camera and will post pictures as I can. Not sure how much free time we will have though.

LOGAN

2009-03-23T05:20:00.004-05:00

UPDATED!!!

The little man gets staples and stitches out Friday. He says he is feeling much better now.

Keep my nephew in your thoughts. He was attacked by a dog yesterday. He was very upbeat, but I suspect that he had a pretty rough night and is not feeling too spiffy this morning. He says all the shots hurt the worst. Lots of staples and stitches...

MY EVENINGS ARE SPENT

2009-03-20T05:22:00.000-05:00

OUT ON THE DECK WITH THE SQUIRRELS, DUCKS AND BIRDS...

6 YEARS AGO TODAY

2009-03-19T06:05:00.001-05:00

Today is the Anniversary.

The United States has lost more than 4200 service members since the invasion 6 years ago.

64 of those are from Mississippi.

Mississippi Soldiers prepare for Iraq

2009-03-16T20:01:00.001-05:00

WTOK

Nearly 3,200 Mississippi Soldiers Prepare for Iraq

More than 3,000 Mississippi Army National Guard soldiers will soon be going back to Iraq.

For many members of the 155th Brigade Combat Team, deployment overseas will be nothing new. Hundreds of members of the group spent a year in Iraq earlier, in the largest war-time deployment of Mississippi soldiers since World War II.

It's about to happen again. Members of the 155th have been told to mobilize in May for training in advance of another deployment.

They will go hoping that this deployment will not be as dangerous as the last. Fourteen members of the 155th died during that last deployment, including some young men from east Mississippi, like Sergeant Shane Pugh, and Specialist Robert McNail.

Several members of the 155th also returned home with serious injuries. Meridianite Norris Galatas was among them, suffering numerous wounds when a roadside bomb hit his vehicle.

The brigade returned home to widespread praise, earning 123 Purple Hearts, 328 Bronze Stars, two thousand combat badges, and a Silver Star.

This time, the soldiers plan to use a buddy system, pairing those who've been in combat before with those who haven't, so the first timers will have an idea of what to expect, and a better chance of getting home to their families, safe and sound.

SHE SAID YES......

2009-03-12T07:38:00.006-05:00

I am so excited. I am getting a daughter n law, and I could not be happier. She is a sweetheart. She fits right into our family.

Wii

2009-03-09T04:59:00.003-05:00

I did it. I never thought I would order one of these, but I have go to do something to keep me busy, and figured I might as well have a little fun doing it. It should be in by the end of the week. I might not ever want to leave the house after I get it all figured out.

Feeding the Wild

2009-03-08T08:01:00.005-05:00

If I feed all the wildlife that is around the new house, I would probably go broke. These squirrels are eating the food as fast as I can put it out. This is the dominating one I think. He does not let the other up there until he is through eating all he is going to eat. He makes some kind of noise when another one tries to get close. They are so much fun to sit and watch.

The humming birds have also arrived. Just have not been able to get a decent picture of them yet.

Lots still going on with trying to get settled in the new house. Major problems with my Earthtek Drip System (septic). Seems as though lightning struck the control panel while the house was on the market to be sold. The realtor has contacted the previous owners and their homeowners insurance agent to advised them what is going on. In the mean time I have had to shuck out more money than I care to talk about to get it back up and running. Hopefully tomorrow will be the day. They had to order a new control panel, two pumps and several other parts and they should be in tomorrow.

The 39th Annual Spirit of America Day

2009-03-02T12:56:00.008-06:00

I have to say I am proud of my nephew. He received the Spirit of America Silver Medal Award at a ceremony at Smith Park in Jackson, Mississippi today at 12:30. His speech was great. They will go to our State Capitol this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. and will be welcomed by the House of Representatives and then at 4:15 by the Senate. The Banquet of Champions will take place tonight at 6:00 p.m. at a local Hotel in Jackson.

The Spirit of America Day XXXIX ideal is that sports and patriotism be entwined to strengthen both.

The Spirit of America Day XXXIX salutes your spirit, which gives wings to all the values and virtues passed down form your forefathers and which you shall carry on to future generations. You honor America. America honors you.

WHAT JOY THEY BRING

2009-03-02T05:55:00.001-06:00

One happy dog headed to see someone that he had not seen in over 2 months. He was running around the yard like a crazy dog. He is back on his own turf and loving not being an inside dog anymore. Gonna miss him...

NOT ENOUGH TIME

2009-02-27T12:21:00.002-06:00

There is just not enough hours in the day for me to do everything that needs to be done. Way too much going on. Nothing seems to be going right, or should I say how I want it to go. I have been on edge all week. Guess it is a combination of not feeling well, tired, and very stressed. I want to be able to wave a magic wand and everything be in place. Guess it is going to take some time to adjust to living in a new place.

There must be train tracks very close to the new house. Seems as though every morning roughly at 0200 I can hear it going by. Henry does not like it either as he thinks he has to walk into the bedroom to check on me when he hears it coming down the tracks. He has never heard a train before now. He only has one more day of having to be an inside dog.

Another busy weekend. I need to finish up moving a few things, get the cats from old house, get hair trimmed, buy curtains and get them hung, buy groceries and shop for bathroom accessories.

Henry and I will spend some quality time together tonight as tomorrow is going to be a hard day for the both of us.

ALL MOVED

2009-02-25T05:45:00.002-06:00

I spent this past weekend moving and I am still paying for it. Don't know what I would have done without Michael, Kristi, Kim, Pat and Mom and Dad. By Sunday night my back was killing me and I was ready for a long calgon bath. It's not in the order that I would like for it to be in, but it is getting there. Those stairs to the second floor are getting to me already.

You would think when you buy a home that nothing would go wrong. I walked across the living room floor Monday night and felt the cold sloshing water on my bare feet and just about lost it thinking that Henry had been a bad boy that day while I was at work. I used every towel that I had to soak up all I could. Thank goodness for making the Seller purchase a year's worth of insurance. Not sure what is wrong, but the plumber will be out bright and early Saturday morning.

So much for having a smooth move. I hope that this is my last move that I ever have to make. Will post pictures after I have settled in. Hopefully it will be one day real soon.

GOLD STAR DAD GOES TO THE PENTAGON

2009-02-20T07:54:00.003-06:00

Thanks to David for this...

My Visit to the Pentagon [Robert Stokely]

My 30 minute visit with the Under Secretary of Defense, Arthur J. Myers, went very well. But, we need to keep the letters coming to say no to changing the Dover Policy (no media at Dover).

Then, I had the opportunity of oppotunities. Besides a one on one personal guided tour of the Pentagon and the Office of the Army Chief of Staff, I was surprised by getting to spend over 15 minutes alone with General George Casey, Army Chief of Staff.

I am still amazed at this opportunity and I can only say that General Casey is a down to earth, genuine person, and he understands what it means to be a Gold Star Family, for he is a Gold Star Son, his father having died when his helicopter was shot down in Viet Nam (General Casey was 21 and had just been commissioned when his father was KIA.) And the guided tour was awesome, especially since I am a big fan of McArthur. But, it was sombering experience to visit the crash impact site from 9 / 11 and to stand where the plane hit the Pentagon.

I have tried to think how to put these opportunities into perspective. I can only say that the footprints and shoulders of my "boy", Mike, have carried his old man to places few see, at least as up close and personal as I have been given the privilege of seeing.

Robert Stokely

proud dad SGT Mike Stokely

KIA 16 AUG 05 near Yusufiyah Iraq

USA E 108 CAV 48th BCT GAARNG

SHE IS ONLY 6

2009-02-18T04:40:00.001-06:00

and has one hell of a voice...

Listen to this one first.

U S Army honored Byram, MS Middle School

2009-02-14T19:18:00.005-06:00

The Mississippi Patriot Guard Riders were honored to be a part of this program.

Courtesy of WLBT.

Teacher and students honored for their encouragement to U.S. Troops

Posted: Feb 13, 2009 10:07 PM
Updated: Feb 13, 2009 10:45 PM

U.S. Army honored Byram Middle School

By Bert Case

BYRAM, MS (WLBT)- It is a simple idea, fix up a box from home, fill it with chocolates and items a soldier might need, and send it to those in harm's way and in the hospital, along with a note.

A simple idea that means a lot, according to MS. Adjutant General William Freeman.

"A tremendous boost to morale. And of course they take the candy and stuff and give it to the Iraqi kids over there," General Freeman said.

The lady who came up with the idea was officially commended by the U.S. Army. She is Cheryl Shelton, sixth grade teacher at Byram Middle School. We asked her how the idea originated.

"A friend of mine had a brother that was going to Iraq, and I said my students will write letters and we will send cards and pictures, and candy to him," Shelton added.

Fifty five boxes a month have been sent to the troops for six years and Major Mike Conroy, who works in the Pentagon, came all the way to Byram to say thank you.

"It truly helps our military, accomplish their mission," Major Conroy said.

The boxes from home made those who assembled them, like 11 year-old Kelly Byrd, and 12 year old Austin Partridge feel good.

"It helps everybody like to remember, the soldiers that are in Iraq. It feels good because they know that they are not alone," said Byrd.

One of the soldiers who got a box is now retired S.F.C. Norris Galatas of Meridian, MS.

"We are over here doing something that the world is against, and really people do care, but we like to hear it," said Sgt. First Class Galatas.

One hundred twenty students got commendations from the Army and everybody got a flag courtesy of the Woodmen Of The World.

Mississippi Gold Star Father lost his battle with Pancreatic Cancer

2009-02-08T17:58:00.002-06:00

It is with a heavy heart that I announce that Gold Star Father, Gary Allen, lost his battle with Pancreatic Cancer last night. He lost his son Shane Pugh who gave his life for our country in 2005. Gary was a proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders and a member of the Mississippi Air National Guard.

Gary fought a hard fight over this last year. He was at most all of the missions with the Mississippi Patriot Guard Riders despite his battle with cancer.

Gary is survived by his wife, Gold Star Mother Wilma Allen, five children and several grand children.

You will be missed Gary.