Andrew sent an update from Iraq, as well as some pictures for me to post.
Love,
Christy
(p.s. sorry for how it posted, it was in some weird format on email I guess)
From Andrew:
Greetings
Being in the Iraqi desert for over four months has definitely made me appreciate all the comforts and surroundings back in the States. I miss the little things - hanging out with Christy, driving to work, walking on the beach, wrestling the dogs, having nightly and weekend free time, and much more. However, I must say I've reached "cruise control" for the year long deployment, set in a routine of work, eating, exercise, teaching, and talking on the phone. There doesn't seem to be time for much else, except the occasional DVD. But overall, I'm doing well. For my job, I feel like I've experienced everything I possibly could, so I'm ready to get a new one. That may take a couple months, but I should get rotated to another division sometime soon.
I play an occasional softball game, go to a weekly Friday night Bible study, have ice cream on Saturday nights, church on Sundays, exercise six days a week, work 12-14 hour shifts seven days a week (with Sunday morning off), eat the exact same thing for breakfast every morning with the other supply officers (omelet, yogurt, grapefruit juice), eat a big plate of vegetables for lunch, and go with all the squadron officers to dinner. The routine is good yet monotonous. The biggest exception is that I'm separated from my pregnant wife for all but two weeks of this year. We've stayed very close by writing, emailing, talking and just recently video chatting.
One of the things I really enjoy is taking my "Polaris" (essentially a dune buggy) out for a spin whenever I need to go different places on the base. Also, last weekend I visited an area just off base called the "Oasis". It is believed to be an oasis that Abraham stopped at during one of his journeys chronicled in the Old Testament. It looks nothing like Iraq, as the oasis is surrounded by palm tree groves that harvest dates. It's GREEN, unlike the dusty, dirty and sandy surroundings I normally see. So, I resolved that I will go there at every opportunity for my mental health. Also, I should get to take a four day "R&R" trip to Doha, Qatar sometime this summer - likely when I have a break between my classes.
Teaching classes has definitely been a great source of personal growth for me. I have taught International Political Relations and Terrorism so far, and will be teaching an Intro to Political Science course in a few weeks. It keeps me engaged in interesting world topics, and gives me an opportunity to give back to the Marines, sailors and soldiers that take my classes. I teach Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1800-2115 so as to not conflict with work.
I want to thank everyone again for the tremendous support you've sent my way while I'm over here. Thank you for the packages and encouraging emails. I also really appreciate your prayers and support of Christy while I'm away and she goes through the pregnancy.
Much love,
Andrew
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