Hello America....It's Bub!

Got a very pleasant early morning phone call from Iraq. "Hello America...It's Bub!" He's such a goof. A Happy Mother's Day phone call a little early. As usual, he was in great spirits and full of energy. He said things are very hectic and busy for him but he doesn't mind because it makes the time go by so fast. He had actually gone out on patrol a few days ago and it was a great experience for him. It was a quite patrol, thank goodness, and he was with the guys from his old platoon, who are very special to him. He was pumped that there is a possibility that they may be getting a four day pass and getting to travel to a place where they can unwind and relax for a few days. He said if this happens, he is going to schedule his pass for a few months down the road so he has something to look forward to. After the pass, then he is hoping it won't be too many more months until he gets his R&R. He works seven days a week and at least 12 hours a day...and we complain? Shame on us!

He said it is getting very hot at the FOB...everyday is over 100 degrees. Right now the air conditioner is out in his tent and the temperatures inside the tent get up to about 140 degrees. Thank goodness for his mister...it's getting it's use! The sand is terrible and the sand storms are frequent. He said he is getting use to the sand now but in the beginning it made him sick. He wears a bandana over his nose and mouth and glasses or goggles to protect his eyes.

The care packages are still a big hit and a DEFINITE motivator. He said that the tent calls Mary, the bomb because she sends enough that everyone in the tent gets to benefit. He is so grateful for everyone's support! One of his favorite things that I make is Texas Trash, which is hot and spicy Chex mix. I sent a box recently containing 9 quarts of Trash and he said the guys turned it into an experience. Each person had their favorite ingredient so they were picking out the pieces they didn't like and bargaining with their buddies to get their favorites. Sounds hilarious. I also sent Chocolate Chip cookies that I had sealed in a Foodsaver and they arrived just fine. It makes me feel so good to know that they get so excited when packages come. He did mention that mail will take longer now that the bridges were bombed yesterday.

I am so thankful that Chris has such a positive attitude and is making the most out of this tour. He has ALWAYS been the type to try to find the good in everything. He always trys to pull others up when they are down and I'm sure that's what he is doing now. He's quite the comedian and I'm sure he keeps the tent in stitches.

It was so good to hear Chris' voice and hear what he is doing. I miss him so much! For some reason, this past week was really difficult...I was extra worried all week and down in the dumps. Hearing from his is the best medicine in the world! I reminded him that he should be very proud of himself...when he joined ROTC he said he wanted to be able to make a difference...and now he is! We are very proud of you, son and love you very much! Stay safe!