We got our first "call" in a week from Sean, and he didn't have a microphone or headphones. So we looked at each other on camera, read lips and instant messaged our way through a lengthy conversation. The kids were convinced that if they yelled at the computer, Sean would somehow hear them. It is absolutely amazing how just seeing someone can lift your spirits. The kids and I were getting a bit blue--but just seeing Sean made us all feel so much better. He looks fantastic (of course I'm biased). We are excited to hear his voice next.Sean said he starts his normal shift work tomorrow (today?) He has a bit of a cold, but overall seems healthy and well. He did request vitamins from home, and also suggested some more cozy bedding for his quarters. Otherwise, his wish list consists of personal items like letters and pictures to keep him going. Sean will post items/entries to the blog as soon as he has more consistent access to the internet--which will help us all considerably when it comes to care packages.Forget sugar, both of the kids are higher than a kite after seeing their Dad on the computer. Sean did notice ZeeZee's blue nail polish in the web camera. Below is a picture of her first pedicure, courtesy of Auntie Heather (who must be pretty special considering her client's dirty feet!)
Sean recently arrived in Balad. Although he is tired from travel, he is in good spirits and ready to get started in his new position.Sean will have spotty (at best) internet access for the next week or so, as they get their network set up in quarters. He'll be checking this blog regularly--as we'll be using it as "communication central" for our friends and family.Sean will let us know what he needs as they get moved in. His address (in the right, upper corner of the screen) will also be adjusted shortly, so keep an eye out.He asked that his thanks be passed on to everyone who is standing with our family as we adjust--including our parents and siblings who are helping with the kids, fixing things around the house and are a consistent source of moral support for both of us. We love you all.
My sister-in-law Lisa (who is also one of my favorite people) recently noted that sometimes we don't see the fruit of life's trials until long after hard times have passed. While time certainly gives us unique perspective, it seems like such a shame when we fail to observe and celebrate the little triumphs along the way. So Joshua, MacKenzie and I decided that a blog might be a great way to record our family adventures. Sean deployed to Iraq last week (he landed in Kuwait this morning) and there will be a great deal of adjustment involved for all of us. This website will give us an opportunity to share life "back home" with Sean--and for us to share Sean's news with our friends and family.Over the last week, I've learned how to fix a wash machine, change a toilet seat, install bi-fold closet doors, identify and locate two way concealed variable overlay hinges, as well as change our furnace filters. Now I get to add re-learning basic HTML to the list. Please be patient with Josh, Zee and I as we get our page from the "nuts and bolts" to "dazzling" stage over the next few weeks.
