Ok.  Just got this thing up and running.  None too soon as I leave shortly for the sunny climes of the Middle East.  We will update and let you know what is up with us, Amy from here and me from there (you know where).

Thanks to everyone who has visited, attended various parties, called, e-mailed or written to wish me and the girls luck and blessings.  Your thoughts, prayers and support mean more than you will know!  We are trusting that God has a plan in this and that He will sustain and provide during our separation as a family.  Though I am a bit apprehensive (and I know that the girls are as well), the knowledge that we are not truly in control of this thing is (mostly!) a comfort, because we know that He is.  Our hope is that, through this experience, we are a help to others from our respective locations and that He uses all this for His good.

Though apprehensive, I am also excited to be deploying.  This is something that, though I have not avoided, I have felt vaguely regretful about not doing in my military career.  I would have grave regrets were I to retire without doing my part as a Soldier.  I’ve actually wanted to go over there and play for troops since this thing started.  How’s the old adage go?  ‘Be careful what you ask for…’  Unfortunately, I can’t do that without leaving Amy and the girls behind. 

We hope that this blog is a better way for our family and friends to keep up with our goings-on, and enable you to contact us from an easy one-stop link.  We are trying to be better sons & daughters, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles! 

- Derek