Friday, December 4, 2009

Day 347

Mom – Day 347

Isn’t it weird how one event in someone’s life can completely consume so many lives?

I still haven’t heard anything new.

Gelukkige sinterklaas! Happy Sinter Klass.

Take care Zach, I love you
Be safe
Xoxoxoxoxo
Mama

Dad 347

Friday a work week down and another day down. For the most part it was a good day, very busy at work lots going on. Tried to stay busy and today it was easy. Still I take moments to think about Zach it is hard not to throughout any day. Spent the evening making chili for the Chester Greenwood Contest. I think my chili is good we'll see. It was fun working on it as I know if Zach were here he would be competing against me. We once had a meatloaf throwdown at a family reunion, it was close I think I won and of course he felt he was the winner! Another day closer I miss you Zach, you are Superman! I love you!

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Day 348

Mom – Day 348

Oh my – I didn’t know if I was going to survive today. Not only was it a rough day in what was happening at work, I didn’t feel well. I realize that I am forgetting to take my medication on time; I am forgetting some of my meals and to drink water. No wonder I am not feeling well – and my exercise level decreased. I can’t seem to focus and I need to do it soon.

I received a quick line on Facebook today from Zach so I do know that he is okay. I also found out that one of Zach’s classmates who is in the Marines is going to Afghanistan and seems excited. I am thinking that he is mentally getting himself ready but I am worried about him. Afghanistan and being in a war zone is real and scary. I need to pray for all of our military men and women.

Love you Zach – Be safe
xoxoxo

Dad 348

348 days left considering the start number was 365 we are making progress! Each day is a day closer to 1 then home or at least out of Afghanistan! Lisa was happy this morning she at least got message from Zach on facebook. Every little positive makes a difference. I again need to be careful as I find myself getting short with people, I just have a hard time being patient with what I perceive as arrogance, ignorance, stupidity, and those who I feel are hindering and not helping. Normally I am patient and understanding and I don't know if it is the situation or I have just reached max acceptance. The problem is that it is at work for the most part! It is not like me to be that way, luckily I have controlled it thus far but it is getting harder. I wonder what other parents, spouses or children of those deployed feel, what about siblings how does Victoria feel, or Mina, Eline or Julie? Emptiness is creeping but it won't win I must be strong for Superman! I love you Zach and think about you every day!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Day 349

Mom – Day 349

Today was a long and hard day. I just read Galen’s blog and I guess we are both feeling it. I am so exhausted and I am starting to feel overwhelmed. I am usually very confident in what I do at work but I am starting to second-guess myself. I feel like I am not pulling my weight.

I haven’t heard anything from Zach. Every time the phone rings I jump but so far nothing. I am sure they all heard the news about the President’s speech. 30,000 more troops (x) 2 parents and at least one loved one = 90,000 people + 30,000 soldiers = 120,000 people (at a minimal) will be affected by this decision. I am just one thought in the field of thoughts. Okay, I am just rambling now. I do know that I have really mixed thoughts on the President’s decision but I am glad that he did make a decision and that our soldiers are not in limbo. I also know that I really feel for the women and children that are still in fear of the Taliban (and the men that are ‘made’ to control the women).

I am going to try and get some sleep.
Good night Zach (and Ash if you are reading this good-night, I love you and you better study)
Be Safe Zach
xoxoxo

Dad 349

Another day down! I don't really have a lot to say, just absorbing the information from the President's speech last night. More soldiers and Marines heading to Afghanistan and more families are going to spend months worrying now! I have so many feelings and emotions that are just so hard to come to terms with. I have to be strong for Lisa and the family, but at times it is a struggle. I struggle daily getting things done staying focused sometimes I just catch myself staring into the distance just wondering what Zach is up to! My job, things to finish and to work on at the house, cooking, cleaning, daily type chores keep my mind occupied,I get frustrated with things not getting done and I have to be more patient as people handle stress differently. I just seem to want - want this that or the other things done, more exercise, get my health in order, the bathroom done, and on and on..... I just need to take deep breaths and drive on! I know that Superman is keeping on keeping on and we can do the same! I love you Zach!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Day 350

Mom – Day 350

I spoke to someone today that served time in Iraq and it was nice to hear some of his perspectives. He told me how lonely Thanksgiving was for him and in some way that did console me because I knew Zach was so down on that day. He spoke about how he felt physically, emotionally, and physiologically in Iraq. He gave me some advice, some advice easier said than done – like don’t listen/read the news all the time. It was very comforting to hear what he had to say. – a thank you

Zach, I love you – Be Safe
xoxoxo