At It Again...

From R&R...Oh Wheaton!


Me, My Old Commander, and My Chaplain

Dear Friends,

The routine continues, and each day is still flying by...however, these days are numbered. We should start some new routines here pretty soon with transitions coming. This is a good thing since it keeps us on our toes. No one wants to get complacent.

Anyway, we are nearing the end of our study of Luke in our Bible discussion group, and I have to say that I have felt incredibly blessed to be a part of it. God has continued to provide me with fellowship wherever I have been so far in the Army. I had Chris Bean and the Nav's at Fort Benning. Then I had Jamie, Andrew, and the rest of the guys at Fort Lewis, and so far in Iraq I haven't gone a day without a brother close by to provide encouragement and friendship. I won't say that I'll miss this place too much once I'm gone, but I can say with confidence that I know my time here has not been wasted on any level. I continue to be blessed in all situations, tough times, and joys. Those who have ever visited a country like this know the full extent of our blessings back in the states. It gives perspective I never received before.

So the days tick away, and there's still plenty of work to be done. In the end, though, I have nothing to complain about. Reed also continues to do well as a new Platoon Leader. He has instantly earned respect in the Company and has found his rhythm. Luke also is dong well, but he is being worked like a dog. He'll definitely be joyously welcoming the "lighter days" when we get back. Speaking of which...I hesitate to mention any dates for when we'll be back...mainly because it could change even just days before the scheduled flights home. There's a lot that could still change, but by in large I can almost guarantee you that I'll be home by my one-year mark...which is September 12th. Only time will tell. I'll write again soon when I can. Bye!

What Have I Been Doing?

Dear Friends,

When asked, "Hey David, what have you been doing?"...I admit that I really can't remember at times. The ball is really starting to roll along over here in many ways. All I know is that the days fly by and the weeks blur together. I can't believe that we are nearing the end of June. Did I already turn 26? Yup, that was a week ago. The nightly Bible discussion groups add a good routine to my days by giving necessary fellowship. Reed and I are there every night, and there are 3 others who make it more than half the time. There are a few more who have come out, but I am finding that most guys aren't willing to give up a time every day. Many are satisfied with checking the Sunday morning church block. Hopefully God can use what we're doing here to show them how it is a daily commitment. In the end, I am encouraged every night by the fellowship and sharing of the Word.

The above photos are from Sadam's palace taken today (yes, I went back...this time to re-enlist my Stryker Vehicle Commander, SGT Bloom). Our old commander, CPT Roberts, was able to make it out. He leaves early to go back home soon so it was good to see him one last time. The rest of the gang enjoyed walking around the huge central room, sitting in the dictator's old throne, and wondering why anyone would have a marble toilet. It is always good to get out of our small base...so today can definitely be chalked up as another good day. Please continue to pray for the Soldiers' safety and that we'll all be home safe in a few months. Complacency can surface towards the end, and I really want to finish strong...in every respect. Alright...I will write again as soon as I am able.

Long Time...

Dear Friends,

I realize that it has been a long time since I last wrote. The truth of the matter is that I don't like posting if I don't have pictures to accompany the post (I know that most people are like me...flipping through magazines to look at all the cool pictures before reading any articles). However, it has been much too long...so I'll write today and post pictures later.

Anyway, life has been zipping along here. I am busy enough to make the time fly by, but I still have enough free time to remain low-stressed and content. I've been reading a book by Mark Driscoll this month called "Religion Saves & 9 Other Misconceptions". In addition to that I've been learning a ton through my time in the Word, prayer, and these nightly BDGs (Bible Discussion Group). The BDG is growing in strength. Reed still is there pretty much every night with me, and I'd say that our average numbers were around 5 this past week. It's definitely not about quantity, though. I'm much more excited and encouraged to see these guys develop convictions for themselves by reading the Word. After following Jesus for many years now, I sometimes find myself jealous of their new zeal and passion for the Word. Guys like SPC Rivera and SGT Scott motivate me a ton. Reed also continues to be a continual source of fellowship. I am blessed beyond expression with my current situation. God continues to be good to me.

There's plenty more going on right now, but overall it's all stuff that would bore or confuse most people. If you're interested in the big picture, then just look what's going on in the Iraqi government. It'll give you an idea of life over here. A summary, however, is that we continue to see progress here. I am glad to be a part of this effort...seeing the change is incredibly rewarding.

In the end I'm trying not to count the days. There's still a lot to get done, and I definitely want to give 100% up until the end. So thank you for your continued prayers and I hope to see you all in a few months. Bye!