Friday, December 25, 2009

Santa Sighted...No, For Real

Santa and I...Proving That Santa Is One Tough Guy Visiting Even IRock
Small Victories As An XO...Such As Finally Getting a Shipment Of Chairs In
Tyson and I...Tyson Has Become a Good Friend and a Person I Work With A Lot

Dear Friends,

Last night was Christmas Eve. My commander, a couple other buddies, and I were gathered around a toasty fire enjoying cigars. Then suddenly we heard it...a distant sound of Christmas carols. The sound got louder and louder mixed with the roar of a Stryker's engine. Finally, we saw it...our Battalion Commander had brought a special Christmas mail shipment complete with Christmas music blaring and Santa Claus...( Santa had complete tactical gear including body armor, rifle, and full combat load). It was great. I told Santa that all I wanted for Christmas was to be home with loved ones...he said "Next year my friend." In the end, this holiday season has been especially great thanks to packages, letters, and videos from back in the states. Thank you to all who remembered me this winter. Your support is incredible

In other news, Bible Study continues to go well. There are several guys who I consider regulars now...SSG "V", SPC Hardin, and SPC Hudek. I have also developed a good relationship with one of the interpreters..."G" is what I call him. He has had quite a life, and I enjoy hearing his perspective on Jesus and Christianity. God has surrounded me with more support here than I expected. Christmas Day chapel service was also great today...learning about accepting the light that came into the world over 2000 years ago.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Thank You's

Mexico...I Know I Missed the Wedding..But If They Ever Figure Out Time Travel...

A Dog By The Pond...Paradise!

A Beautiful Michigan Sunset...What Does Snow Look Like Again?

Dear Friends,

This week has been quite encouraging. There has been a huge increase in my mail! I got 4 packages from my parents (thanks for the gifts!), a package from Ann Karl (completely surprised me...thanks for thinking of me), a package from Steve Magee (protein bars and protein shakes...you know me too well...but where is the Vitamix?), a video message from Kate (always appreciated), a video parody message from Kate's brother (imitation is the best form of praise?), a letter from my Brother and his family, a letter from my aunt Joyce, a package from the Stolls, a letter from the Lewis Navs family, and a whole bunch more. Your love and support is overwhelming! I do not expect such gifts, but I do greatly appreciate them. You all are great! Things here are rolling along at a fairly steady pace. We had to cancel Bible Study this Thursday, but during that time I did get a chance instead to talk one-on-one with an old Soldier of mine...his name is Dayne. He is incredibly interested in Jesus and actively pursues Him. However, he is definitely in need of some teaching, encouragement, and direction. I hope that God uses me for that purpose in Dayne's life and the lives of a few others at our small base.

Okay...so I included the above pictures as an idea of where I wish I could be right now. Ski season, winter fires, and loving family await me in less than 9 months! Until then I appreciate your continued prayers...they are reaching me half way around the world. Bye!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Blog Update...The Family Edition

Brother Brandon and Family With the New Edition!

Brother Chris and Niece (Whitney) and Nephew (Tristan)

The Newly Weds
Dear Friends,

I figured that I'd include some pictures from the many recent big family events for the Fahs' in recent months...a new addition with my niece and a new sister-in-law! Already during my short time in the active Army I have missed much in the lives of my family and friends...my cousin's wedding, three good friends' weddings, my brother's wedding, niece being born, my own b-day x 2, holidays, parties, and a ton more. However, I do not feel cheated when I really consider how much of a blessing the Army has been for me. I continue to love my job...even though the majority of my work is now "admin"-related rather than the exciting daily missions of a platoon leader. Even being away from friends and family has its benefits. Most will never know just how great a reunion feels after a year apart from those you love. Life continues to be good to me. By the way...today has turned out to be a beautiful, sunny day in the capital city here!

The Bible Study also continues to grow and gain strength. The guys really have been energized by watching this movie "The Bema Seat". I push in as much of the Word as possible too knowing that we could easily get off track by just making it a "movie study". However, God is using this movie to spark discussion. Our time in the Word after the movie benefits from their excitement and interest. God continues to do great things here. Please continue to pray for us here. Until next time!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Just More Pics...

Bruce Campbell and I...Yes The Star of "Army of Darkness" and Now in the TV Show "Burn Notice!

My Commander at a Recent Ceremony...CPT Roberts is a Strong Believer Who Is Great to Work For...God is Blessing Me With His Leadership and Mentorship

p.s. SEE two posts below this one...I did a special about the "Dogs of AQ"...It was started back in November, though, so it isn't posting towards the top...I'll write again soon.