Heading off...

Time sure flies and it's hard to believe Robert will be leaving this week for his first extended period of training with his unit. It will also give him a chance to meet and work with the Chaplain he'll be working alongside once he heads out overseas. I'm really praying that this Chaplain would be a strong believer in the Lord and might be able to serve as a mentor for Robert when they're on the field. What an awesome ministry that is and I can't wait to hear how Robert will be used in the lives of the soldiers he interacts with daily.
We had a going-away party last night which was really special (thanks Phil & Sheila) and a small group of our favorite people were there. We enjoyed a night of grilling out and roasting marshmellows....but...no party would have been complete without a game of croquet. Robert set up the croquet course and before we knew it we were all being suckered into playing. I played a round on Robert's team and we came from behind pulling off a win just barely slidding by our opponents. One game was enough for me though! The night wouldn't have been complete without watching this week's "American Idol." For some reason I've really gotten into the show this year. Perhaps because one of the contestants, Jason Castro, reminds me so much of Robert. They act alike, think alike and even sport a head of dreads. Yes, before army days, Robert had dreads! I'll have to post some pictures one of these days. But, American Idol night has given us a chance each week to hang out with friends and socialize. It's becoming an annual tradition.
Tonight Robert and I will be going out on our last date for what is to be awhile. It's amazing how once you're married you have to schedule in date nights. But, we'll be going to one of our favorite Italian restaurant, Louie's. Robert always goes a little overboard when we go there and orders the craziest things. It will probably be his last home-cooked meal that doesn't come from a box saying "just add water."

Thanks again for all the prayers, calls and notes of encouragement during this time. I have appreciated them more than you could imagine and will need them in the days to come.