Bob heard from his commanding officer late this evening. We now know a few more details. Bob will be at Fort Bliss for a month. Then he is heading for the "Sand Box". The Army will keep him for the maximum of 545 days.

Military life and the discipline associated with it has been good for Bob. He's done some growing up, relied on his own abilities and gotten away from his Mom. It's not that Kay is a bad influence on Bob. It's just that she is a typical loving Mom, ready to do anything for her only boy. While that presents certain advantages, it doesn't do much to help a young man become independent.

Bob is about to have more growing up experiences. I think this will bring us closer together as a family. No doubt the next 570 days will be filled with some anxiety, some concern and a lot of prayers, letters and Bob related conversations.

In some ways I feel pretty small. Yes, this is affecting my life and the lives of all Bob's friends and family. A small contribution compared to so many who are currently "in the Sand Box". Thousands who have been wounded. Many who sacrificed with their lives. Their families left to mourn and wonder. I'm glad that we have a chance to honor those who have gone before us. It's a little thing. Of course, for Bob, the sacrifice is real and great..........
10:28:47 PM    comment []