Training over...for now!

As most of you know, we went to get Cody this past week. It was a bittersweet event that I know was hard for him. There was a lot of mixed feelings towards leaving San Antonio and coming back to Mississippi. But, let's get to the trip out first.
We left on Monday and drove to Sealy TX, which is about 2 - 3 hours away from San Antonio. We came to a Best Western right off I10 and decided to stay there. As soon as we checked into the hotel and drove around to a room, we thought,'hmm, there sure is a lot of bird dookie in this parking lot". Tommy said to park across the lot where there were fewer trees. No such luck. All the parking spaces that were tree free were taken. Guess they knew the secret that wasn't told at check in. There was a sign posted that the train could be heard from the rooms at night. But, being that we hear trains every night from our bedroom, this wasn't an issue. They just didn't reveal the 'little issue' of a bird invasion at dusk and again at dawn. We walked next door to eat and got back just before the sun started going down. All of a sudden, there was this chirping noise that got louder and louder. I asked Tommy, "what in the world?". He said that it sounded like birds outside the door. I pulled the curtains back and 'OMG!!' There were hundreds of big black birds EVERYWHERE! The trees were covered with them. It was an erie feeling. Felt like a scene out of the Birds movie where the birds were invading and attacking the humans. Once it was completely dark outside, the noise died down. Of course Tommy had to say that they pooped all night long...Oh great! Well, come first light, the noise started back up. No alarm clock needed here. We finally left after the noise stopped and cars were literally covered in white poop!!! First things first, we found a car wash, and were not the only ones in line. But, that car wash didn't get all the poop off. I had to get paper towels and 'wipe' the poop off of the spots that didn't come off. Gross!
We got to San Antonio before noon on Tuesday and I decided to valet park. Tommy, being the country boy that never gets out, really didn't like this idea! He went on and on about not liking leaving the car and the keys with a total stranger. He would not leave it alone. We went outside to take a walk around the neighborhood and there was my car still parked out front. He continued to fuss that we were paying for it to sit out front of the hotel for anyone to use! We were told that the nearest parking garage was a block away and Tommy decided that we may just move the car the next day and walk back and forth to get it when we wanted. We found out that Cody wasn't going to get to leave base that night so, we walked downtown to the mall. We went to the IMAX and watched the Alamo. When we got out, it was dark. We found that some streets were not really the ideal street to be out on after dark. As soon as we exited the back side of the mall, we were approached by a white female. She told us that she and her daughter were staying at the Salvation Army and needed $10 to pay for the night. She was trying to get out of there and just needed a little time. She was trying to get into school so they could get off the streets. She painted a sad picture and I was getting a little tender hearted until Tommy said "Where did you get that cigarette?". I knew what he was up to...she told him that she bummed it from a guy across the street and that's how she usually got them. She said that when she does have to buy them, they cost her $1.45. He said, 'Bull', you had me till you started blowing the smoke into my eyes. No, she got nothing. We left and got around a corner and was hit up again by a guy. Got to the Riverwalk and was hit up again. Tommy thought he had a sign tattooed across his forehead. The next morning, as soon as we walked out of the hotel, we were approached again!! This is when we decided to continue the valet parking. Who knows what we would be walking into trying to get in and out of the parking garage.
We ate at some great places and walked and walked and walked. We found our way onto the base Wednesday morning but didn't get to actually touch Cody. We found his barracks and saw his group getting smoked for something. I texted him asking if he was in the group jumping up and down and he responded after we had gotten off the base. We went out to get him again that night and as he was walking across the parking lot to us, my heart started pounding!! That was the best sight I had ever seen! Tommy said that he didn't recoqnize him coming across the lot. Mama did!! I couldn recognize my baby anywhere! Oh, I grabbed him and hugged (didn't cry though) and didn't want to let him go. It was the best feeling in the world! We took him out and fed him well and had to get him back pretty early but, at least I knew we would get him again the next night.
The next night, we got to meet this friend and companion for the past 4 months. She was a beautiful girl with long black hair that curled down her back. She was from New Jersey and moved to Florida at 17. She is of Latin decent and has the sweetest disposition. It was clear that she cared deeply for Cody and he for her. She told me that he really made it easier being there for so long. They knew that their end was near and it made me sad that they were going to have to say goodbye so soon. We took them back early so they could spend some time together before graduating. We took her to the airport on Friday and after she left, I saw the distressed look on Cody's face. It broke my heart seeing his heart break. That was the saddest thing I think I've every had to witness. That told me just how much he cared for her. Hopefully, we will get to see her again. Bridget, it you get to read this, 'Thank you for coming into out lives and making the time much more enjoyable for my son'.
We came home to a suprise party for Mama. She was sorta ticked off because I had told her that we weren't coming home til Monday. We were going to have some one on one time with Cody and that he wanted some alone time once he returned. She was truly suprised when he walked in at the river.
On Sunday, we had some of his friends out and grilled. Had boating and horseback riding for those that wanted to do either. We are so thrilled to have him home, but now it's time for him to get back to his life and is moving to Starkville today. As much as I would love for him to remain here with us, I want him to get back to his routine and make a place for himself. I am so proud of him and his friends for the decisions they have made to serve out country.
On another note, as we were traveling home, everywhere we stopped, when he was in his uniform, people would come up and shake his hand. They would say thank you and some even told their stories of service. It was a proud and humbling moment to see complete strangers coming up to my son and honoring him. Wow...what a feeling of pride!!

Counting Down

It's been a while since I've written any thoughts. It's been easier knowing that all I have to do is call Cody whenever I want to hear his voice. If I don't get him right away, I know that he will call me as soon as he can. Tonight marks 23 days until he gets released. We get to see him in 22 days. They are supposed to be having a family dinner the night before graduation and then on Friday Sept 4 he will graduate at 9am. They will not release the soldiers until later on that afternoon. I am so excited about getting to spend some Mom & Dad time with him before he gets back to God's Country. I know that when he hits home, our time will be limited because of family and friends that have missed him just as much.
I have said so many times before that I am so proud of him, Clint, and Hunter. They are remarkable men and have made such a lasting impression on so many people. Although I am so thankful that Cody is 'supposed' to be doing the College First program, I'm a little disappointed that he and Hunter won't be serving active duty together. Oh, I do not want either of them to go but, I know that it is inevitable that they will serve. It was just easier knowing that they may be together.
I can't believe that it's been 6 months since I had my balling fit in BankFirst on that day I was taking him to leave. I've had a few teary times but, for the most part, it hasn't been as bad as I thought. I have realized that you have to let them go after a while and trying to hang on to them is really harder than letting them grow. I see friends that are raising small ones and even having babies. I miss those times but,also, I'm so glad that I'm out of that period. I've done my time (don't mean for it to sound like prison) and am looking forward to the time (far away) of helping raise my children's children. That better be a while off though. Don't know if I'm really ready to let go THAT much!
Oh well, so much for rambling. On Sunday, Cody will be starting a 10 day 'experience' where they go to the FOB (don't really know the name of this place) for a 'battlefield' simulation. They will get very little rest or sleep during this phase. This is where they will put everything they have learned to test. Please say some prayers for this time to go quickly and without a hitch. I won't be hearing from him until this part is over so, I know I'll be a little antsy during this time.

Love ya so much Cody and I'm so proud of all you have done. Same goes to you Hunter and Clint. Ya'll are all amazing men!!!

So Proud of You

Cody, I am so proud of your accomplishments. You have proved that whatever you set your mind to, you will do. I am so glad that you are enjoying the field that you so unwillingly (or fate placed you in)had to go into. You have always been a leader and a take charge kindof person. You will do so well as a combat medic. You have always taken care of others. Right now, I need you home to help 'take care of someone else'. That person really needs your advice and concern that only you can provide. You know what I mean... You have always been one that they look up to and can talk to when there are problems. Well, there are problems that need only your advice... And thank you for always being here for them! I know you are only miles away but, when we get you back here, spend as much time as possible nurturing in only your way.

I am so looking forward to August being over. I wish I could just blink and it was be gone. I don't mean to wish my life away but, it's just the way I feel. This has been such a long time to be gone. I know that in the near future, you will be gone for a much longer period of time. I know you are being prepared to go overseas and I realize that you are ready to take that step. It will always scare me to see you and your buddies go over. I'm just so darn proud of your willingness to serve this great country. All of you soldiers are the real heros. I love you so much and can't wait to wrap my arms around you again...

Another Reality Check...

Well, I headed to bed early tonight and as always, I get a call from Cody. I know not to try and go early. We chatted for a while and then he tells me that Hunter B got his call today. He is being deployed to Camp Shelby and then on to Iraq. BAM! A ton of bricks hit me hard! I know that this is what they are training for but, I just thought that it would be a little while before they would have to go. And as Cody explained, this is what they have been trained to do and they look out for each other. They are a family unit and will do everything to help each other out. That is good to know but, these are still our children and it is so hard to let them go. They are truly men and will be out protecting OUR FREEDOM. They are truly brave men and will do our United States proud.
Hunter, I know you probably do not read my blog but, I wish you the very best and pray for God's hedge of protection to be around you at all times. You go out there and do the best you can and I know that will be great because you have always given your all. You have made your family and friends so proud of all you have accomplished. This time will seem like eternity but, we will be welcoming you back here with great pride in saying that we were there when he was making us proud on the ballfields too!!! I love you and wish you godspeed. You will be hearing from me while you're gone...you can count on it!!!!!!!!

The heat is on...

It's been a long summer and it's just started. I've been concerned about the triple digit temps that Cody is having to endure. I know that we all are going through high temps and we just have to drink lots of fluids and keep cool the best we can. But, after talking to him on Thursday night and finding out that they have had 2 soldiers die this week from the heat, I have just had some added worry to this mama mind. The soldiers were from another company but still, they were someone's child. From what I understand, they got up every morning and drank an energy drink before PT drills and passed out. Neither were able to be revived and died. How stupid can someone be??? Very...There are so many young (and older) people that rely on these energy drinks and don't realize that the just dehydrate you in the long run and that leads to major complications. The best thing for your body is just plain old water. Occasional gatorade is good, but water is what your body truly needs. The group at Fort Sam Houston are talking about going to reverse schedules where they will sleep during the hottest part of the day and do the drills and classes during the nights. I know this will be tough to get used to, but due to the excessive heat, it appears to be a good decision. Just a little over 9 weeks left...thank you God!! I really don't want to wish my summer away but, I do wish to get through this heat and get my soldier boy (man) back home. I am going to treasure that fellow like I've never treasured him before. I am so proud of him and all he stands for. He has grown so much since he's been gone. He has matured into a very strong and intelligent man. His values are shining through. There have been some trying times for him out there. So many temptations and aggrevations from some of the guys out there. The lack of discipline has been a real eye opener too. So many of the recruits are really not there for the right reasons and it is showing.
On another note, Cody is doing great with his medic training. His grades are super and at one point, he said he ranked 4th in the group. Of course, when I told
Tommy about this, his comment was..."Why can't he be 1st?". This is typical Tommy...he has always pushed our kids to be the best at whatever they did. Sometimes I thought he pushed them too hard but, all three of them have said that they appreciate the pressure that he placed on them. That pressure made them what they are today. If you're not #1, you lose...Runner up means nothing. So, Cody, keep pushing for the best. I know you can do it. You just have to give the extra mile. Oh, and watching House is not the same as studying...haha You KNOW what I mean!
Cody, I know you read this blog and I just want you to know how very proud I am of you. I know I tell you often, and I will continue. You are doing a wonderful thing by volunteering to serve our country during this difficult time. There is a war going on and that has strenghthened your desire to be a soldier. You and your buddies are great men and are setting such a good example to other people. You will make great leaders in your future and I can't wait to see what this future holds for you, Hunter, and Clint. Again, I am so proud to have been a part of all of this.

I Love You and miss you bunches!!

Missing the Peacekeeper

Well, I've realized that the Peacekeeper in the family is being missed terrible right now. I've told how Mallary and Shelby fight but, for the past couple weeks...OMG has it been terrible!!! They cannot even be in the same room without words flying. Now is the time that we realize that Cody has always been the one that has brought peace and contentment to our family. The girls absolutely adore him and they just can't seem to get along without him. He 'plays' with both of them in a different way. He can pick and fight and laugh the whole time. They seem to enjoy every minute they are together. Right now, that 'glue' is missing. I am so hoping that this next few months passes so quick...
On another note, to help decrease the fighting, Mallary has gotten a job at Macon Medical. Maybe with her time being occupied with a job, she will be so worn out at the end of the day that she won't be so hard to live with. These two girls won't even get in the pool at the same time. So, now Shelby will have her swim/lay out time after her class and not have to deal with the criticism.
But, one day, I know they will get along and actually love each other. I remember not really liking my sisters and I got over it. Now, they are my best friends. So, hopefully, they will be too.
Oh well, needless to say, we are so ready for Cody 'the peacekeeper' to return home. We miss you babe!!

Reality hits

Yesterday I got a text that said..."I'm happy here. I'm proud that I'm in the Army". That first made me happy but, then I had to analyze that simple comment. I had to question what had happened to cause that comment. Nothing was the response. I kept digging and the more I dug, the sadder I became. To the point that I boo hoo'd for quite a while. What hit me was the fact that my little boy was no longer my little boy. He has grown and matured into his own man. He told me that it was going to be weird coming back home. Now, I can take that one statement many ways. But, I do understand what it means. He's learned that he can make it on his own and although I will always be his mother, he can do without some of me. I guess that sorta hurts but, it's part of your children growing up. I want them to need me but, I also want them to not need so much. Seems sorta stupid but, hey, it's how I feel. I realize that when I bring him home in September, that he won't be in my house for very long. I know that he will need his own space and his independence. And, being in the parent's house is not going to be what he needs. I always knew that when Cody left home, he would never be back. I have told Tommy that so much and he always told me that he would come home. But, it's not the same. Now, his coming home is mainly to visit. I know that before, he was anxious to get back to his friends and his own lifestyle. I know, all parents experience this 'empty nest syndrome' in some form or fashion
Then, when I talked with Cody Saturday night, he was frustrated...or maybe we should say mad. They were getting smoked quite often because of a few other people's stupid mistakes. There were some guys that had gotten alcohol and had gotten caught. In the Army, they all pay for one's mistake. They had random drug/alcohol screens, had locker checks that morning, and had to suffer the consequences. Also, today, a couple guys left base to get tattoos and did not return for roll call. The whole platoon payed the price for these guys also. They were supposed to get an off base pass next week and that was taken away. They will now be in lock down all weekend. I know this is so frustrating to the ones that are trying to do right. It makes those think that it really doesn't matter because they have to suffer right along with the troublemakers.
This made me mad that my son was having to go through this. I didn't sleep much last night thinking about this and the true meaning. I came to the conclusion that no punishment is too great when you are going about life in the right way. I know Cody is there for a reason and I feel like God has led him here and we may never know the purpose but, there is one. I think about God letting His Son die on the cross for my (and your) sins. Wow...He paid the ultimate price for our stupid mistakes...before we even made them. This really hit me. I'm bellyaching about a little punishment for minor things and God's Son DIED for mine. It kinda sheds a different light on Cody's situation. If Jesus could bear our sins, I do believe that Cody will make it through this minor punishment. He's strong and has the Saviour on his side. There may be someone there that does not and Cody's strength may be what they need to see. I just keep praying that Cody stays strong in his faith and serves God in all he does. I pray for him and his platoon daily and encourage others to lift them up as well. Include also Hunter and Clint in these prayers because I know they are probably experiencing the same obstacles where they are.