Dave and Kate...A Simple Story

Holiday Greetings!

2011-12-11T14:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Merry Christmas everyone! I had to remind myself this morning that this holiday season is to celebrate the birth of Jesus...not Santa. Anyway, Kate and I have been very busy recently. I am finishing up the Captains Career Course and will soon be an instructor at the Army's Infantry Officer School. I'm looking forward to the challenge and the rewards of teaching a motivated group of men. Kate is still working hard at our Church with children's ministries. She's also still studying weekly for her childbirth education certification. Kate and I have had an incredible past 7 months here at Fort Benning. Our free time was extensive, and we have been incredibly blessed to see each other so often. We've had chances to travel, throw parties, and host a number of friends over at our home. Most recently we had a "Person In a Song" party in which everyone had to dress up from a character in a song (ie. dress up like Lucy from "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds"). Kate made a music trivia game, and a ton of our friends from CrossPointe Church came and hung out. It was such a hit that we're already planning our next party...most likely themed in a way to again give an excuse to dress up in hilarious outfits.

This holiday season will be very exciting for all of us. We'll be able to see lots of family which is great. We hope that you all also have a relaxing, rejuvenating holiday break! Merry Christmas again!

School Is a Breeze and Dog Has Been Fun

2011-11-18T14:03:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Well, I am making an early new years resolution...to be a more disciplined in giving updates on this blog. I guess that I should start with updating you on Kate. She has been hard at work in a variety of areas...setting up our home, volunteering at our church, studying for her classes, hosting new friends at our house, and most recently taking care of our new dog (Dawson is a golden doodle and has been a blast to have around). I, on the other hand, have never been as un-busy as I have been so far in my army school. There are periods where I learn a lot and a crazy day or two, but there is plenty of downtime to make up for it. Kate and I have really been blessed these first 6 months of marriage with all the time spent together. By the way...this past week was our 6-month mark! It is crazy to think about, but we were married in Michigan 6 months ago. Time really has begun to fly since we've been down in Georgia. We're doing our best to just enjoy it.

What else? Well, we're looking forward to seeing some friends and family over the holidays. We're also ready for some MidWest snow. The temps have finally dropped here in Columbus, but it will be nice to get a little taste of the snow again. In a weird way we both miss it...not the 7 month duration...rather just the first snow!

Alright, I'll write again soon. I hope you enjoyed this little update Bye!

Georgia Aquarium Plus Other Fun Stuff

2011-08-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

Trip to the Georgia Aquarium

David Hard At Work With His First Big Project

Dear Friends,

Kate and I have really started to settle down here in Georgia. I started my school about three weeks ago and Kate is hard at work making friends, taking care of me, and studying to get her certification completed in childbirth education. We've both been busy, but we usually find the time to relax. We really are fortunate to have such a low-key schedule for our first few months of marriage. We miss our friends in Washington and our families back in the MidWest, but Georgia is turning into a home for us.

Last weekend Kate and I had a great time going up to Atlanta for a date day. Kate planned the whole thing and surprised me with it. We started off at the Georgia Aquarium taking in the huge exhibits complete with gigantic whale sharks, manta rays, beluga whales, and a host of other underwater creatures. We then went to something called "Dialogue in the Dark". This was an experience to remember. We were ushered through a series of rooms designed to look like regular every-day locations like a grocery store, a park, and even a restaurant...except everything was completely pitch black. We were given a "seeing" stick and led by a guide who had been blind since he was 32. We emerged an hour later with a new found appreciation and respect for those people who have lived every day of their lives without their sight. It also made the stories of Jesus healing the blind a bit more tangible for us. It was by far our best date day since we have been down in Georgia.

Anyway, we miss all of you a lot, and I hope that this small update was fun for you to read. Enjoy the pictures, and I would definitely recommend going to the Georgia Aquarium if you all ever get a chance. Bye!

David and Kate

Top 10 New Things In Our Life...

2011-07-10T05:59:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

I have not been as disciplined in updating this blog as I should of recently. I have no excuse. However, I am taking the time now to fill everyone in on where Kate and I are...with a little "Top Ten New Things" list. I hope you feel better informed after this.

(1) Kate and I's 2 month marriage mark is in 4 days!
(2) Kate and I are living in Columbus, GA.
(3) Kate and I have our first rental home together!
(4) My course/job here in Georgia starts this Tuesday and lasts through December.
(5) We had our first house guest this past week at the Fahs B&B, Reed Timme. The guest room was a big hit. He said the guest bed was extremely comfortable.
(6) Kate is looking at many different options down here to get involved in, and we are both very excited to see where she ends up investing her time.
(7) Our first kitchen together is awesome thanks to all the generous gifts of our wedding guests. We have been eating some delicious meals thanks to Kate's cooking skills!
(8) We painted 4 of the rooms in the house all of which look great...again thanks to Kate's skills in interior decorating.
(9) We've been attending CrossPointe church and plugging in with the Navigators discipleship ministry here which continues to be very encouraging to both of us.
(10) We found a cool little Saturday farmer's market and a lot of other sweet spots here in Columbus. The South has much to offer!

Well, I hope that catches some of you up to speed and provides a good review for others. Kate and I are really enjoying marriage life together. It is different from single, dating, and/or engaged life...but so much better too! Until next time...bye!

David and Kate

Rebirth, One Flight, and Home Shopping

2011-05-02T17:22:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Life for Kate and I right now is incredibly exciting. As you can see, Kate was baptized this past Easter. I was fortunate enough to be able to baptize her with our wedding pastor, Pastor Eric. It was an incredible service, and I truly do feel blessed to be able to have that memory with Kate. She was one of about 680 people who were baptized into the name of Jesus at the service. It was a spiritual rebirth celebration!

Kate actually has already traveled back home to Michigan about a week before me to finish planning for the wedding with her mom. She packed up, caught a red eye flight and didn't miss a beat...starting to knock out the final details as soon as she landed. It's been great to see the plans come along so well. We still have a little bit to go, but it's incredible to think that we'll be married in 12 days! I on the other hand have another important task to accomplish before getting to Michigan. I arrive to Georgia this Thursday to house hunt and hopefully find Kate and I a great place to rent before we arrive in June. All in all, Kate and I continue to have quite a busy schedule. We'd appreciate your continued prayer...that we enjoy our time in the coming weeks rather than stressing about any of the little things and that we instead remain focused on Christ and His blessings that He continues to give us right now. We were reflecting a couple days ago just how greatly God has worked in both of our lives this past year. We look forward to the next together!

Well, I'll write again soon (hopefully before the wedding). Until then!

Forgot To Blog...And My Camera

2011-04-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Well, this past month I have been in Germany for work and Kate has been back in Washington working hard and preparing for our upcoming wedding. This time apart has been difficult, but we've both admitted to each other that God has used it for His good. We both had time to do things that we just wouldn't have had opportunity to do if our normal routine (of driving one hour just to see each other) would have allowed. Plus, now that it's over it makes being together so much more of a tangible blessing.

Kate was able to host her mom who came out for a week to help plan for our wedding...as well as experience some of the Seattle culture and beautiful weather (it actually was quite unseasonably beautiful!). She continues to love her work with the children's ministry and the kiddos at Mars Hill. (Tip for single guys out there: find a beautiful single girl who's good with kids...pretty good indicator she'll be a good mother for your own kids one day). I on the other hand have been able to simply read a ton and experience a change of pace this past month. My work here in Germany has been steady, long hours...but I've always had time for myself too.

Well, I will be back stateside soon! I look forward to seeing you all again soon. Bye!

Gone For A Little Whaile...

2011-03-15T00:27:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

I leave for Germany in about 6 hours, and I wanted to give one last update while I was still stateside. The details of what I'm doing in Germany aren't as important as the opportunities that I will have while out of the states. It seems that God has a way of making Soldiers a captive audience whenever we are deployed. Despite this being a rather safe and short deployment, the same applies now for me. This next month I'm hoping for opportunities to really dive into the Word and get some perspective on how God is directing Kate and I's life together. I also see it as an incredible opportunity to reach out to a very captive audience in Germany...guys who are all away from home, their routine, and the things which normally consume them. My personal prayer is that God uses me to reach out to them at every opportunity. Kate also will need your prayer this next month as she is going to be working crazy hours, preparing for the wedding, and completing a myriad of other tasks back in Seattle. We are praying together that we would be allowed to use this time apart mindfully knowing that our gift of singleness is only going to be given for 60 more days!

Ultimately, we are excited for this next month...for its opportunities and the fact that when I return means there is only one more month until Kate and I get married! We appreciate all of you friends and family who read this blog, and we hope that you all are also encouraged by our continued story. Until next time!

Germany...Wait, Did I Not Tell You That Yet?

2011-02-26T14:22:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Do you know how sometimes you feel like you've told everyone already that you're going to someplace for a month...say Germany...but you actually forgot to tell your own mother until 2 weeks afterwards? Well, that happened. Despite all the craziness of finishing my job here, planning a wedding, and getting ready to spend the rest of my life with my incredibly beautiful and kind fiance Kate, God has it in His plans to send me to Germany for a month. I guess He wants to give me a little taste of Europe before going down to the good, old South this summer. Anyway, I'm bummed that I'll be separated from Kate once again (as if 12 months wasn't enough), but both Kate and I are going to make the best of it. I'm going to learn the entire German language, visit Germany's famous "Eagle's Nest", and prepare the entire United States Army for its next great venture. Kate also will have her hands full. She is going to start running Mars Hill Church in Seattle (Yeah, the whole church), start a small, multi-state craft business focusing on stationary and wedding invites, and hike Mount Rainier (and possibly Mount Everest later in April). Well, we may not do all of that stuff, but we will be married by May 14th...which in our eyes in just as awesome! We both would appreciate your continued prayers.

Below are some ways that you can pray for us before our upcoming wedding:
(1) Wise use of our time during our final months in Washington...valuing our great friendships out here and preparing for our next phase.
(2) God would continue to grow our hearts closer together as we prepare to begin our new life together.
(3) Look to Jesus for strength and peace rather than anxious thoughts (Amazing how a wedding, a beautiful and wonderful day, can raise anxiety levels huh?)

So yeah...thank you again for checking out this blog. Until the next time!

Back To Work and Normal Stuff...

2011-01-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

This week saw both Kate and I back at work and the normal routine of life which we have settled into here in Washington. Today we're together in West Seattle looking at some wedding plans and trying to figure out these next few months here. It was a little shocking to go back to work this week...kinda like getting a bucket of cold water thrown in your face right when you step in the front door. However, it ended up being a blessing because it forced me to get right back in the mindset of work and being efficient with my time. I'm actually amazed at just how inefficient I become when I let all my normal routines go on vacation. On vacation, despite having, 10 extra hours of time a day, I struggled to even to do my daily devotional and work out before dinner time. And these are the two things I normally have done before 8am everyday back at work. Oh well, every once in awhile you need to relax. Christmas Break was definitely one of those times.

So anyway, I hope that you enjoy these engagement pictures of Kate and I. We have a bunch of them, and I may just keep including them in posts for the next month or so until I take more photos at some event. I guess I figure that you can't go wrong with a picture of a pretty girl and her mediocre fiance. Alright, I will write again soon when I can. Bye!

2011..Nuff Said

2011-01-01T11:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Kate and I returned from our Michigan vacation thanks to the kind transportation of my parents via Chevy Trailblazer and AirTran via a Boeing 717 aircraft. Our travel day was long and exhausting...so much so that I went to bed at 9pm (on New Year's Eve!)...but it saw us returned safe and sound to the beautiful state of Washington. Most of you probably know the usual shock which descends upon you when you get back to the normal routine of life after 2 weeks of vacation. I have already felt this shock, but at the same time it is good to be back. Kate and I have less than 6 months left in Washington with a lot of plans and hopes for our remaining time here. I personally have at least 100 places to visit before I go with Kate adding another 100 or so. We definitely won't even begin to tap the surface of all there is to do in the NorthWest by the time we leave here. Fortunately there are thousands of other people in Washington who can enjoy the state and God's beauty here for us.

Alright...so I haven't made any cheesy New Year's resolutions, but I have made it a point to read more books, pray more thoughtfully, and make the most of my time here in Washington before Kate and I head down to Georgia. Happy New Year's and I hope this year teaches you much. Bye!

Still In Michigan...

2010-12-28T12:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Well, today my parents are coming up to see Kate and I in Michigan. It should be a good time as we have both sides of the family together for a couple dates. So far Kate and I have really just been enjoying the Christmas season and getting in some wedding planning when we have the time. We did our wedding "tasting" yesterday which was pretty cool. We were able to sample some great food and finally actually see, in person, the place where we will be getting married. It's a great venue with the wedding ceremony, dinner reception, and guest rooms all within a few hundred feet of each other. It takes some effort to get there, but once everyone is there it should be great. We're looking forward to the convenience as well as the beautiful setting. The wedding will be small, but it should still be a pretty rockin' party.

What else? There really hasn't been a lot of other "events" in the past week other than meeting plenty of Kate's old friends as well as hanging out with family. We are being well-fed and well taken care of by Kate's parents. They live right on the water (which now is covered with ice). It's basically a resort home with the view and incredible setting. Anyway, Michigan is obviously incredibly cold, but we are beating it with warm homes and lots of relaxing! This Christmas vacation has been exactly what both Kate and I needed. I'll write again soon. Bye!

Stuff Is Still Happening...

2010-12-22T07:30:00.001-08:00

Kate and I At a Recent Ugly Sweater Party

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Kate and I At Her Church Staff Party

My Recent Military Ball

The Current Navs Bible Study Crew

Dear Friends,

Wow! I can't believe that the last post I made was when Kate and I got engaged. That was over two months ago. Let's just say that a lot has happened since then. Kate and I traveled to Chicago for a week to visit friends and family back in late October. It was a short trip, but it was incredibly relaxing. I took on a new job at work when I returned, and it has been incredibly busy ever since. We are getting back in the swing of things, and although I at times miss all the time off, it is good to feel purposeful again at work.

Kate and I have also gone full blown into wedding planning, and we now are in Michigan for the holidays where we are enjoying time with Kate's family and also finishing some of the wedding planning. The snow is out in force here, and it has already snowed twice since we arrived...big flakes that nearly fill up the air as they fall.

Despite having to do a lot with planning for our wedding, Kate and I are still managing to enjoy this rare extended period of time together. It is a nice taste before we go for 4 more months of the medium-distance relationship back in Washington. God continues to teach us a lot through our time together, and we both feel incredibly blessed this year. We are actually off to a Christmas party tonight at one of Kate's family friends. It gives us both an excuse to get dressed up and enjoy the holiday season.

Anyway, I promise to do better and not go as long without updating this blog in the future. I hope that the large number of photos in this post make up for my absence. Merry Christmas, and I hope that the New Year treats you well!

Kate and I Are Engaged!

2010-10-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Well, there may have been some other stuff going on in the past couple weeks, but by far the biggest news is that I asked Kate to marry me...and she said "YES!" It seemed to be a big hit when I wrote about how Kate and I met...and a lot of people have been asking me the engagement story. As a result, let me tell it here...although I'm sure the story will be told many more times in the coming years.

It was this last Friday, Oct. 15th, and it was our regular date day. I had made sure that we were set up to be alone together for the day's entirety. I was staying at a friends house in Seattle so that I could be closer to Kate's house, and I got up early so that I could go buy some red roses and make it over to her house before she woke up. Her extremely helpful roommate Janette let me into the apartment early in the morning; I set up a trail of rose pedals from Kate's bedroom door to the living room table. On the table I left a simple note telling her that I love her along with the roses...trying to start off the day with a little romance without making it obvious what I was building up to do.

After she woke up and read the note, we went to The Flying Apron...her favorite coffee shop where we ate a light breakfast and did our devotionals together. An hour later we went right next door for our full body massages at a place she loves. At this point we were both completely 100% relaxed just enjoying each other and the beautiful day. And God certainly blessed us with beautiful weather! The air had a slight chill to it, and the sun was shining bright. We had the perfect Fall-Seattle day thanks to the Man Upstairs. Ultimately this was my goal: to get Kate completely relaxed so that she could enjoy the day. I also recommend this technique to any guys who like me know that asking a beautiful girl such a huge question can be nerve-racking. The easy day put me in a relaxed mood too.

After our massages we got some food from the local grocery store and went back to her place where we cooked an awesome brunch together. This activity...simply cooking and being close to each other was one of the best parts of the day since we are still living over an hour apart. Time together doing everyday things is truly special. We enjoyed the food, and then we relaxed at her place for about an hour. The weather was thankfully still gorgeous, and we went down to Green Lake which is within walking distance from her house. It is a beautiful lake with plenty of more private areas right on the water...with a view of Mount Rainier's top and the Olympics too. We got halfway around the lake, and by this time her ring (which had never left my side within the past 24 hours) had begun to burn a whole in my pocket. We found a nice little pavilion by the lake with cement steps leading right down to the water. We sat down by the water for a few minutes, and I had planned to go through a series of scripture passages which had given me confirmation and encouragement for our relationship in the past months. I fumbled my words, and felt like there really was only one appropriate thing to do. I brushed the rest of the speech aside and simply asked her "Will you marry me?" Kate said "yes", and we ended up spending some more time down by the lake looking through John 15, and just talking about all the new excitement and joy we had.

After I proposed, we still had plenty of time in the day. After a couple phone calls and a load of texts, we both turned off our cell phones and promised to take the rest of the night for each other. We both got ready for dinner, and Kate came out looking absolutely beautiful as usual. She's the type of girl who can take your breath away every time you see her. I walked her down the street to Mona's Restaurant. We ate some awesome food in a romantic setting where a live Jazz band ended our night together.

The best part of this story is that my opportunities to be romantic and sincere are just beginning. I look forward to the next few months of our engagement, and I hope that Kate and I can get time with all of you who have been involved in our lives...either separately or together. Thank you all again for your continued support and prayers!

Camping, Seattle, & Other Stuff...

2010-09-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

My days have been random...to say the least. I've gone camping, hung out in West Seattle, and a myriad of other activities. However, I barely remember any of them...the pace of life has not really slowed down much. The Washington Fall is pretty much here too...bringing foggy mornings, chilly nights, and the occasional beautiful day. It is a pretty crazy difference from the 130 degree heat I experienced only 3 weeks ago...a welcome difference for sure.

I've been able to make it out to Mars Hill Church a few times with Kate recently which is a treat. Pastor Mark Driscoll is a man with very little mercy for young men...and I appreciate his ruthless challenges to our temptation towards cowardice, laziness, and other sins. The Navs ministry is also pretty much outgrowing our space at Tuesday night Bible Studies. We're thinking about splitting into two separate studies soon, but we'll see when we actually make the jump. It is cool to see how different things actually are here now...it's a lot of new faces mixed among the old, familiar ones. Anyway, work also continues to be pretty slow. It is giving guys a ton of time to spend with their families...which is a welcome change after 12 months apart.

Okay...so I'll write again soon! Bye!

Welcomed Home...

2010-09-05T12:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

It is good to be back...although a part of me feels as though much of my brain was left in Kuwait. I was welcomed home last Saturday by Kate and a bunch of my friends here in WA. Life right now is very "free" and easy-going, but I'm just trying to ease back into life here in the states...realizing that a year away can require a small transition period. Luckily the Army has a great system in place designed to give us exactly that...a down period after deployment designed to maximize time with family. This last week has been a lot of briefings, attempts to get settled, and plenty of time with good friends. Kate was able to go to her friend Ali's wedding in Maryland this week, and I was lucky enough to be able to go to Cushman Lake for some amazing Labor Day Weekend camping. The best part was probably jumping off a huge rock into the lake ...enjoying the cool water and the amazing scenery. It was really surreal...it was exactly what I needed...time spent out in God's creation with some brothers.

I apologize if I haven't been able to call some of you back. I've received a ton of phone calls this past week (warranted considering how long I was gone and awesome to feel loved too), but I haven't had a lot of down time yet. My hope is that these next two weeks will be a lot easier since I'm over the initial hump of getting back in the swing of things. I'll try to return all your calls soon...I look forward to catching up. Bye!

DEFN: Prayerwalk (N.)

2010-08-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

Prayerwalk: The act of talking to God while moving along on the ground.

I believe that an ancient, ADHD monk invented prayerwalks in the early 11th century...mostly because he kept getting kicked out of his prayer classes, and walking was the only way he could keep focused. Hundred of years later this same phenomenon has once again become popular...it was first reintroduced by a man named Luke C. in Dupont, WA almost 1.5 years ago. This is where I rediscovered its value. In 2nd grade my teacher, Mrs. Benbow, allowed me to stand up and sometimes move around in class...because she knew that this helped me think. I have since reapplied this concept. My mother, aka. Mother "Hiphop" Fahs, has been doing this for years most mornings...putting in some hard prayer-miles at the local Hicksville track. That's right...you can combine personal fitness with spiritual fitness. Crazy, huh?

Well, as you can probably tell...not much is going on here. I'm still waiting to catch a plane. Hopefully I'll be back soon!

Back Here...

2010-08-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I am still in Kuwait...waiting (no pun intended). However, this isn't as bad as it sounds. I am sleeping 9 hours a day...I go to the gym whenever and for as long as I want...the food is good...and it is giving me time to process a very busy year. Overall, I am obviously eager to get back home to WA...to a very special girl, a time of relaxation, and a group of brothers/sisters who have prayed me through the entire deployment. However, I am not anxious...rather just content.

Some may be asking me now..."Hey, what is there to do in a desert (not to be confused with dessert...the sign in our cafeteria reads 'desert bar'...which is funny given our current geography?" Well, the activities really are endless. I have a few good books needing to get read. There are also plenty of movies and other "entertainment tents" dedicated to keeping Soldiers occupied and out of trouble. The days still go by quickly...and I have my eye on the prize. I hope you all are doing well as you read this. My hope is to be back soon. Bye!

In Kuwait...

2010-08-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I am in Kuwait. That is all for now. Thanks.

My Last Days Here...

2010-08-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Well, I can't say how many, but I am definitely in my last days here in IRock. There are a couple more geographical stops before I land in Washington again, but my return seems to be imminent now...the days truly do continue to fly by. I read Romans 15:29 today, and it seemed written directly to me. It says, "I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ." I will not be overly optimistic about this deployment. There have definitely been some harder and more testing days. There were times when God didn't seem as close...and the fellowship with my brothers wasn't as tight. However, looking back now I can honestly say that I have been blessed by Jesus every single day. I always had a Christian brother in my same Company...first with my Commander...and then with Reed Timme when he arrived 4 months ago. I was also able to influence a few guys to get into the Word and grow their relationship with Jesus. Finally, I have felt the love, encouragement, and prayers of you all back in the states on a regular basis. To all of you who have supported me...thank you. Please continue to find brothers who are deployed and support them. Not all of them will be as fortunate with fellowship as I have been, and your letters, emails, and packages help an incredible amount.

So yeah...not much else has changed. The last month of transition has been good. It helps time go by, and it has gotten us one step closer to home...which is the ultimate goal. The picture above is me thinking about how awesome it will be once I get back home to my friends and family. You all rock. Please keep me and the men of Able Company in your prayers. We'll see you all soon!

We're Sleeping At The Same Time Now...

2010-08-09T06:12:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

Hey...guess what? We're sleeping at the same time now...at least roughly. I just started working at night instead of during the day. It's getting so hot during the day that most of us here in my unit are beginning to work at night more. The good part about this is that I'll now be up at about the same time as ya'll back in the states. My hope is that this will ease my jet lag and all that transition stuff when I finally come home. We'll see if it works. Luckily there's also meals still offered at night...we call it "Midnight Chow" appropriately. Again, we are definitely fed well over here...no complaints in that department for sure.

In other news...it is still very good to have Reed around for encouragement and fellowship. Luke is close by too, but unfortunately we haven't really crossed paths much in the past month. It turns out that being on the same base doesn't guarantee that you see each other a lot. I'm staying grounded in the Word daily, and I've continued a new workout routine. Once a week I run on the treadmill and memorize scripture as I run for about 40 minutes. It helps pass the time, keeps me from watching the junk that's normally on the gym TVs, and overall has helped my spirit a lot. I do something similar on lifting days by reviewing scripture in between sets.

So yeah...time is quickly ticking away here. I have a feeling that I'll be back before I even realize it. I hope that you all continue to enjoy everyday of your summers. Thank you for your continued prayers. We're not done yet, but we are certainly getting closer. Bye!

Another Week Down...

2010-07-23T05:55:00.000-07:00

Some Locals Wondering What All The Army Guys Are Doing

An Iraqi Army Traffic Jam

Dear Friends,

I can't really say that the days have been going by fast...mainly because I currently have no concept of time. For those of you who have never experienced an extended period of time without weekends all I can say is this...the way our calendar is designed is a gift...I always loved weekends (and nights off) in the past, but now I have a new appreciation for them. I look forward to the 5 day work week when I get back. A positive result of the schedule here, though, is that you never break stride. There is no Monday "pump-up", Wednesday "hump", or other struggles of a broken up work schedule. We just keep on rolling...and that eats time up like a large day-eating-monster.

In other news...I am now dating a pre-school teacher...which I think is every man's dream in life...patient and able to teach children (especially big 26 year olds who are actually still big kids). I can now check that one off my list. But seriously...I miss Kate and you all in the states very much. It's crazy to think that I'll be back soon (how soon you ask? Hmmm...you'll have to ask the Pres on that one). My plans are numerous, but I believe I ultimately will be satisfied as soon as I take one breath of that good ole' Washington air. Ski season...you'll be here before I know it.

2010-07-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

Some ask me what I do in IRock...deadlifting enormous amounts of weight is just one. I try to spend a minimum of 8 hours in the gym everyday...mostly focusing on chest, biceps, and abs...the most important muscle groups.

Ha! Actually this is from awhile ago...part of the Battalion Iron Man Competition. I think that the guy after me deadlifted 550 lbs...which is a lot more. I'm actually posting this message just to make sure no one sends anymore packages or letters. At this point there is a good chance that it would not find me in time since I'm kinda in transit. However, I would like to use this time to thank everyone who did support me this deployment through cards, pictures sent, letters, and packages. These things mean more to me than you will likely ever know. For now please take this as my most sincere "Thank You!"

Arrived...

2010-07-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I have arrived...although I can't announce where, I can let you know that it is one step closer to getting me back to the place like no place on earth...the United States! If you've never appreciated the spectacular weather and climate of the US, then just spend a few months in a desert. It gives much perspective. In other news, it is hot. I've heard of temperatures around 105, but this is the first I've ever seen 122...and it's only getting hotter. Thank God for A/C.

Also! I am now once again next to the best cafeteria I've ever been to in the world. Some may not get this excited over the food, but I go bananas...B-A-N-A-N-A-S. It is so good...fresh fruit, stir fry bar, omelets en la manana. I am spoiled by all of the delicacies right at my finger tips. The last time I was here was about 10 months ago. Oh how I have missed this place!

There is a lot more going on here than just good food. For instance, the BDG is still meeting nightly...although it is in transit currently. We're now reading through Acts and the early church. It is motivating to read about the courage and boldness of guys like Stephen, Phillip, and Peter. We have been learning a lot from them. Overall, I can't complain. I have plenty of work to make the days seem like they fly by, and my stomach is content...oh yeah, and I have A/C. Like I said...it's all good here. I'll write again soon.

At It Again...

2010-06-28T04:16:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-06-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

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...

2010-06-13T01:16:00.000-07:00

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!

Enjoy Your Summers...

2010-05-18T09:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

My advice to "enjoy your summers" is motivated by the weather here in IRock...where 85 feels cool, and 110 isn't uncommon. Did I mention it's only May? Ha! Luckily the A/C in most of the buildings here works wonderfully. I can go outside, sweat through my uniform, and then relax as I send out a few emails back in my office (my office is actually designed like a wind tunnel...an A/C in the wall blowing down the narrow corridor which is my room). My exact future continues to be unknown, but I am prepared to stay the entire 12 months. The simple fact is that we have a job here to finish 7 years in the making...it would be foolish to slow down 10 yards from the finish line. For those of you who have been here in the past I truly do believe that your efforts are seeing their fruit now.

Some really good news is that Reed Timme (a new Lieutenant) just came to my Company, and he is also very involved in the Navigators ministry. More importantly, Reed and I started a small group meeting every night at 2100 in our chapel. We've had 3 others come out already, and we've only been doing it for about 3 days. My hope is to find 2-3 consistent guys to come out and get excited to be in the Word. My main prayer currently is for this group...namely to see God use our efforts for His glory. I am excited to see Him work. (I also ran into a Soldier from the old AQ Bible Study today...it had been over a month since I last saw him. He misses the study but is doing well.)

Anyway, life continues to hum along here in IRock. It is hard being away from all you friends and family back in the states, but please never feel sorry for me. I love what I do, and I have great satisfaction with my work...something many in our country do not have. I am blessed. It's really that simple. Alright...I will write again as soon as I am able.

The Story Of How We Met...

2010-05-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Well, I have been back in IRock for about 5 days now, and I am already back into a rhythm. It really felt like I just took a long nap and then woke up in the same place (after a really nice long dream). The weather is getting warmer, but nothing much else has changed.

I was thinking about over my leave how many people asked the story of how Kate and I met. It was pretty much everyone we talked to. As a result, I anticipate that most who read this blog would also be curious as to how I ever was able to start dating a girl like Kate. I can summarize that question with the answer "God". However, I'm not being funny or cheesy. His hand is actually quite obvious in bringing us together. I can take no credit.

So anyway, I was on my way back from pre-deployment leave at O'hare airport in Chicago last August. I had just enjoyed 2 wonderful weeks relaxing at my parents' house in Hicksville, OH. My mind had already started to transition to the big task ahead. My deployment lay ahead of me like a ominous mountain that I knew I'd have to climb. I was excited and ready to fly out...I had looked forward to this event for nearly 7 years. As a focused individual I struggled with noticing the cute girl sitting across from me at the airport terminal. Apparently she noticed me too as I sat there with my guitar case, baseball cap, Bible open, and moleskin journal in my hand. My mind was determined, though. I had no time to talk to girls in the airport. I was leaving in a month for an entire year. As the hour before the flight progressed, however, two things happened. First off, I learned through a phone call I overheard that she was a Christian planning on going to church the next morning. Great...now she's cute and loves Jesus. But then I got myself re-focused. The second thing that happened is that I entertained the possibility that this girl and I would be seated next to each other on the plane. "If that happened" I told myself, "then I'll talk to her." I then turned up my iPod and rocked out to the Muse for the next 30 minutes before boarding began trying to regain my composure.

On the plane the "coincidental" happened, and we were sat next to each other with the aisle separating us. I don't remember how surprised I was to see this girl actually sitting next to me, but I know that it caused me to retract some of my earlier resolve. "I'll talk to her later in the flight," I said. That way it won't be awkward for as long if our conversation is lame. I flipped open the book I was reading (The Ragamuffin Gospel...an excellent read I might add) and delayed the inevitable.

Not more than 45 minutes into the flight I was startled to realize that the pretty girl was actually talking to me first. "Can I read your Bible?" she asked. All I remember was telling her "Sure" as I quickly got it out of my bag. Apparently she had noticed me reading it in the terminal. Since hers was with her checked baggage, I offered her the solution to her Bible-predicament. I was still finishing my chapter when she thanked me and gave me the Bible back. My intent at this point was to finish my chapter and then strike up conversation with the girl. However, I really can do nothing in defense of my lack of initiative. I was being dumb, and this fact was driven home when I saw that, upon finishing my reading, she was already fast asleep...in a rather cramped, uncomfortable looking position. She remained asleep for the rest of the plane ride which gave me enough time to talk myself out of any expectation to talk to her later in the Seattle airport. When we touched down I got off the plane first, and I expected to maybe see her one more time at the baggage terminal. After that she'd fade into the back of my mind similar to other pretty girls I'd seen...but never talked to in the past.

A peculiar thing happened as I got off the plane though. I felt an odd sensation that I was being followed. I glanced behind me and saw the same girl slowly walking behind me playing on her cell phone. I slowed my walk so that she'd either have to pass me or walk awkwardly behind me. Instead she quickly came up to me again and thanked me for letting me read her Bible. We quickly started talking all the way to the baggage claim. I learned that her name was Kate Campbell, and I instantly knew that I liked this girl. Kate was from Michigan and was going to school in the Seattle area. She also happened to go to Mars Hill Church...which is a large church I had wanted to check out for the past year. We made plans to go the next day if all went well, and Kate so kindly suggested that I get her number in case we wanted to sit next to each other. My friend Luke was also at the baggage claim returning from his pre-deployment leave, and all we could do was smile as we watched this cute girl struggle out of the airport lugging along 2 huge suitcases. I tried to play it cool for the next week, but Luke saw through my efforts from the beginning. He said something to the effect of "You're definitely 'in trouble'". Looking back on it I have to admit that I was.

The next day I met Kate with some of my friends at Mars Hill Church. After church we went out for lunch and then to one of the local markets. On the way back to our cars I finally started playing the part of the man by asking Kate out on a date. The next 4 weeks ended up being exactly what I needed. Kate and I started dating and I had no time to build up any anxiety about the deployment. I was already physically, spiritually, and mentally prepared. Kate gave me the opportunity to just have some fun and enjoy my last few weeks in the states.

So that's the story. Kate definitely has some different perspectives, but I think I told the story pretty accurately. Some rather unimportant details are that I was wearing my red Hicksville t-shirt and that I noticed almost immediately that Kate enjoyed walking around on her tippy-toes (she grew up dancing her whole life). There are a lot of other funny details that probably would only be recalled if I was telling the story out loud in front of a group of people. At least now I have a baseline story down in writing. I hope you enjoyed my attempt to recreate something that I look back on and thank God for. I realize that the chances of us meeting are very slim based on our own efforts. I didn't "seem" to be in a place to start a relationship. The previous 12 months would have been much more convenient, but our long distance relationship since has proven to be its own sort of blessing. At first nothing made much sense. I was deploying in less than 30 days! Why would I meet someone at that time? I'm still learning the full answer to that question. In the end, I admit that I have enjoyed almost every day since even if an ocean separates Kate and I. I'll be back soon, though, and I look forward to seeing that same girl...Kate has redefined airports for me :)

The Definition of Refreshment...

2010-04-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

The Beautiful Girl (Kate) I Caused to Blow Off School For a Week

Kate and I Right Before Taking Off On Our Buggy Ride

Dear Friends,

I have been back in the states for the past 2 weeks, and I now have a new definition of refreshment...it is the Army's mid-tour leave program. It has been absolutely amazing. I was able to steal away my girlfriend Kate (despite her being in the middle of her school's quarter) and tour the MidWest with her. We saw my highschool friends, my college friends, my brother Chris and his wife, and my cousins while in Chicago for a couple days. We then spent 3 beautiful days in Traverse City (TC), Michigan where Kate's family resides finally ending it in the lively town of Hicksville, Ohio where my parents party it up. I couldn't have been more happy when all my friends and cousins got together at my brother's house in Illinois. It was an incredible reunion. We probably laughed for about 5 hours straight...half the time we weren't even sure what was so funny. It really didn't matter I guess. Kate also treated to me to an incredible Martin Sexton concert which we went to with her parents while in TC. We even went on a horse and buggy ride in Hicksville thanks to the Stoll family. Kate and I also got treated too a whole bunch of meals from family and friends...thank you all for those who filled our appetites!

In the end I currently feel completely at peace and ready to go back to IRock, and that really is the purpose of mid-tour leave. I believe that work will be very busy for the next 3-4 months until I return, but I also anticipate that God will do amazing work as we wrap our little trip up. My main prayer requests are for continued safety for the men of 4-9 Infantry and for God to use me in some way to influence those around me. The next time you read a post I'll be back in IRock. I'll catch ya'll on the flip side.

Leave...

2010-04-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Leave officially began for me today. It will be a 2-4 day process to get back to my final destination in the states. I happen to feel like I was just sucked into a weird, whirl-wind, dream in which I got hit by a train. I competed in the Battalion Iron Man competition yesterday as part of our Battalion's Pride Day(max 3 lifts: bench, squat, deadlift & 2 min push-ups, 2 min sit-ups, 2 mile run, & finally max pull-ups and dips). I also stayed up all last night trying to get on the states' clock by not going to bed until 6am. It turns out that my body decided to reject all forms of sleep. I don't think I've actually slept in close to 36 hours now. I'm currently tired, sore, and confused on where I am (I think that I get on a plane to Kuwait in a few hours). I am also completely relaxed for the first time in 7 months. I have no responsibilities other than walking to my plane tonight. God blessed me with an incredible time in the Word today too. I spent a lot of time looking at the purpose of Jesus' time on earth in Matthew, and the lessons were amazing. It's amazing how much I overlook sometimes in the Bible. I really look forward to getting more time with Him over this break.

What else? Well, I really don't have much else to say yet. However, I have a feeling that the next few days are going to continue to be incredible. I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming weeks!

Q&A Special Edition

2010-04-01T00:36:00.000-07:00

I had some friends from the MidWest send me a few questions. I rather enjoyed this Q&A session.

Do you have anyone leading or discipling you when you are over there? This is a good question. Truthfully I really don’t have a spiritual mentor…at least not one with the same focus and intentions that I was used to during the last year at Fort Lewis with Jamie and Andrew. However, I do have a good Chaplain, and both of my Commanders have been believers. I learn a lot from all of them…just not the same that I learned from mentors back in the states.

Have there been any pranks at “camp” or on the road? Hmmm…besides occasionally messing around with people on the radio there haven’t been too many pranks. We try to keep it focused while out on missions. Laughter is definitely a common noise around the office though. There are so many crazy things that pop up randomly on a daily basis that I can’t help but joke around about them. We have a good time together.

What is one thing you look forward to each day that is your highlight of the day? I actually have a few. First, I look forward to beginning every day at the gym. It is a great way to start the day. Secondly, I look forward to getting Kate’s email every day. She does an incredible job of bringing my mind back to familiar things in the states…it’s a mental break from IRock that I usually need. Finally, I love getting in the Word every day. I do it whenever I can at different time throughout the day. This last one is a huge “must” for me.

Do you have a guitar there to play music and worship? I do have a beautiful Martin, composite body (does better with humidity and temperature changes) guitar in my room, but I do not get to play nearly enough. It’s a hobby I refresh myself on a few times a month, but I haven’t been disciplined enough to play daily. I may work this into a more routine thing. I look forward to getting back to my guitar in the states though.

What is one new food you had over there you would recommend? Definitely a kaubob (pronounced “Ka-bob”. It’s basically flat bread with beef or lamb as the main meat. The locals have all sorts of sauces that you can dip the tasty treat in too. There is one guy, Sheik Ali, that hosts us with incredible food all the time. Also, it’s not really food, but their Chai tea is incredibly addicting. Most locals won’t sit down with you for more than a couple minutes without serving you Chai. It’s different than our Chai in the states.

What is something we can pray for that is not obvious, is there anything that is mentally draining? I would like continued prayer to influence those around me rather than vice versa. These Soldiers need Jesus…plain and simple.

Have you been reprimanded for anything (that includes a stain on your shirt or scuff on your boots)? I don’t really get yelled at as an XO. However, my 1SG keeps me in line. For example, recently he informed me that your hair is not allowed to be “blocked off” in the back. It must have a tapered appearance. I didn’t know it, but now I do.

When are you scheduled to come back? Who knows but the original PowerPoint slide said 11SEP2010.

Are you still planning to have your career in the Rangers or would you look elsewhere after your term? This is actually an excellent question in order to clarify a long disputed argument in the Army. Who is a Ranger? There is Ranger School and there is the Ranger Regiment. I went through Ranger School…a 3 phased, 62 day long, exhausting course designed to push you to your limits while testing your leadership abilities under extreme stress. There is also Ranger Regiment. This is an elite Infantry unit. Picture the most disciplined, well-trained Infantrymen in the movies…that’s the Ranger Regiment. Most Soldiers in Ranger Regiment go to Ranger School and as a result wear the Ranger tab. I am with 2nd Infantry Division…a Stryker Infantry Brigade. I also wear the Ranger tab showing that I went to Ranger School. The Army requires most Officers like me to first serve in a conventional Infantry unit like the 2nd ID, and then afterwards they can go to Ranger Regiment which is a smaller, more elite Infantry unit. So the question is…am I a Ranger? Soldiers in my unit would likely say “yes”. Soldiers in the Ranger Regiment may say “yes” or “no”. I don’t say anything.

Would you ever consider a different form of defense other than the Rangers? I don’t know what life looks like in two years…we’ll see. I doubt I’ll ever go to Ranger Regiment though. It is an even faster-paced lifestyle than I currently live, and I’d like to try some other things in the coming years.

Have you been able to use your mortar training? We shot mortars at a range in Kuwait, but we have not yet fired them in IRock. I doubt I’ll ever get to use this training again after getting moved from the mortar platoon 4 months ago. I spend more time with my computer and emails now than with my rifle. We’ll see though.

Sunny Weather...

2010-03-31T01:39:00.000-07:00

Recent Awards Ceremony

Dear Friends,

The weather here is starting to warm up. In reality it's basically like a mild, MidWest summer day right now...lower 90's with the sun blazing. It's starting to get pretty humid too. I think it's going to start getting really bad right around the time I'm leaving. We'll see. In other news...things are going well with the new Commander now fully in position. Operations are relatively light, and a lot of things are still in the planning process right now. This basically means that I don't have nearly as much to do as I've been used to for the past few months. It's a good thing (needed break) and a bad thing (lack of tasks makes time move slower) at the same time. I am trying to take advantage of the new pace though.

My mid-tour leave is quickly approaching. There are some loose ends to tie up before I leave, but the break is definitely in sight. My goal is to "sprint" to the finish...rest always is more enjoyable after a long period of hard work. Thank you all again for your continued support. By the way...if you didn't catch it in the news, then you should know that a new head-honcho was elected last week for IRock. Some have already asked me what this means as though I am an expert. All I do is laugh and remind them, "How should I know...I'm not a doctor."

Confirmed...

2010-03-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

Me, My Commander, and My 1SG

The Boys After a Meeting and Lunch With a Local Leader

A Reunion With Duty A Month After We Left AQ

Dear Friends,

My leave date came out yesterday. It is "confirmed" as April 10th. I use quotation marks because I have learned to not trust any specific dates given to me by the Army. Ultimately I will be around Washington and the MidWest from mid to late April. I hope to link in with most of you. We'll see how many places I can hit within my 15 day window. I'll keep everyone posted if anything changes.

Anyway, my Company Change of Command is almost complete...about 3 more days. It has been a big project for me, but now I am already moving on to the next big project. It is good though. I continue to enjoy the fast pace. It makes time go by fast. Getting to Bible Study and even chapel has been difficult this past month due to an ever-changing schedule, but I am glad to say that I have been going as much as I am able. The transition from AQ to this base has been tough on keeping continuity with guys. Before they were always very close. They can get "lost" here due to the increase in size. God has been giving me opportunities to meet with a few key brothers, and that is always hugely encouraging. Time in the Word has also been good...about 15 more days until I finish the Bible for this past year. It seems like just yesterday I bought a new Bible and started in Genesis. I'm excited to start it over again. Okay...I need to go, but I will write again soon. Bye!

Big Week

2010-03-04T09:31:00.000-08:00

My VC (Vehicle Commander) Giving the "Hang 10" Sign...Because That's How My Crew Rolls

Dear Friends,

This week is the climax of this deployment in many ways. Iraqi elections have already begun, and they will end in less than 3 days. This is a huge step in determining the time line for our withdrawal. As a result, those of you who want me to come home early should pray for smooth sailing. Those of you who would like me to stay away for a bit longer can hope for craziness. Ha! But seriously, this is a big week for everyone in this country. Today my Commander and I were talking to a local tribal leader at his house. Everyone is very eager for these elections to be successful. The government is very determined, and you can see it by the actions they are taking to ensure security.

In other news, I finally made it to a Bible Study tonight at the new base. It was small, but I'm glad that I finally made the time for it. I have missed it this past month when my transition and schedule prevented me from attending. Like I have said in the past...there is a huge need here for Jesus. I was reading about Ezekiel's commission to deliver a message to the Israelites, and I realized that God's message is not an option to us...it is a command. The reception is out of our hands, but the delivery is dependent on our obedience. If I don't obey, then God will simply find someone else who will.

Sorry for the preaching...it's not my intent. However, I want everyone to know that God continues to be very good to my Soldiers and I while here. He continues to keep us safe, and I know that He still has big plans for this deployment. Anyway, I am excited to see many of you all soon. I make no promises, but I hope to come home for 2 weeks of leave relatively soon. We'll see, and I'll give everyone as much warning as I can. I'll be making my rounds. Laters!

A Change of Scenery...

2010-02-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

Me In Sadam's Old Throne

Tyson and I Playing With a New Toy (Unfortunately Tyson Got a New Job In Another Unit...He Moved Last Week)

Dear Friends,

Well, I changed bases last week, and I really haven't had much time to settle since. There is a lot going on right now, and I am just trying to get all the important stuff done. I have a lot of good news too. The gym here is great...there's an outdoor crossfit section which is very nice...working out in the sun is always enjoyable. The cafeteria is also a little better...still not the 5-star meals of the big bases, but an improvement for sure. It also is very nice to be closer to everyone now. It makes communication and accomplishing tasks a lot easier. It is tough to leave my old home behind, but it is a good change of scenery.

In other news...my new commander should be arriving soon. We are making lots of preparations, and the switch out will take about a month. It will be busy, but again..."busy is good." I am incredibly encouraged by recent changes, and I really look forward to going home. The current plan is to come home at the end of April...however, I remain at the mercy of the Army.

Finally, I was able to make it to both chapels this week and last. I need to make it to the Bible Study though. They have two a week at this base...one on Tuesday and another on Thursday. My main goal, though, is to start a smaller group of some of the guys who were in my study at AQ. Please pray that God would give me the heart and the time to do some kingdom work in addition to my Army job...there is still a huge need for Christ here. Okay, I'll write again when I am able. Until then!

Helicopters, Crushing Rocks, and The Occasional Bang

2010-02-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Helicopters flying overhead, crushing rocks under the tires of Strykers, and the occasional "bang"...these are the sounds of IRock. Helicopters fly over our base all the time picking folks up, doing reconnaissance in the area, or whatever else the "fly-boys" do (ask Luke if you really want to know). Our entire base is covered in gravel to prevent muddy conditions so the Strykers make quite a sound when they roll through the gate. The occasional "bang" is not what you probably thing... it is actually usually someone slipping down the stairs which lead up to the guard tower on my roof. I think that the stairs are really dark at night because the guards usually have trouble getting down them. Anyway, the sounds here are definitely quieting down. You can tell that the Americans really are starting to take a back seat here. It is a good thing though...necessary for progress.

I have been reading some interesting stuff in Bible recently too...the Chaplain spoke this Sunday out of II Kings talking about when Israel "rediscovered" the Book of the Law in the temple. People were cut to the core when they heard its words because they knew that the conditions of their hearts were so bad. I daily find myself convicted, encouraged, and challenged by the Bible. I have found it to be the most needed routine of my day...this deployment has been a great opportunity to "immerse" myself into God's Word...it's amazing what you find out is most important to you when all the extra things are temporarily taken away. Okay...I'll stop preaching...too many preachers these days and not enough "do-ers". I will write again soon.

What Would Happen If...

2010-01-19T03:45:00.000-08:00

Part of My New Crew

This is my view from a Stryker

Mark, Myself, and Mike (Left to Right) At the Golf Range

Dear Friends,

What would happen if you started hitting golf balls as hard as you could without stretching or warming up? I now know the answer now. You pull your back. Fortunately this injury only affects my golf swing and not my ability to stay active. However, it has been hard to not hit the green this week. The driving range will not be open forever and I am eager to work on my swing again. Anyway, our Bible Study this week finished the movie "Facing the Giants". The movie really challenged the faith of a lot of the guys who saw it. I want to try and use that conviction to get more of them in the Word so that they can apply their faith. It is funny how many of them are comfortable coming out to a Bible Study every week, but they don't get in the Bible daily. I couldn't imagine a day without God's Word anymore than I could a day without food or water. It has become that noticeable to me.

The weather here is still strangely warm during the days. There are still some cold nights but nothing unbearable in comparison to the winters of Washington or especially the MidWest. I still love to go relax under the stars at night...despite the violence of the land, you can't take the peacefulness out of its night skies. Obviously the U.S. will always be home, but I am doing well here. Thanks for all your continued support, letters, and prayers. I'll write again soon. Bye!

Camp Fires And Long Days...

2010-01-13T09:25:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I'm Playing Golf...In IRock.

The Sacred Campfire...Where Work Discussions Are Outlawed

Gift From My Family...The World's Longest Cigar...Seriously

Dear Friends,

Life continues to chug along here. I am faced daily with the challenge of living in the present rather than looking forward to future events...namely mid-tour leave. Sometimes it is difficult to remember of how great of an opportunity I have here...to grow personally, to make close friendships, and to share Jesus with those around me. I am over 1/3 finished with my deployment, and time just seems to continue to move faster. Ultimately I find myself incredibly blessed with a great team in Able Company. God has His hand here.

Other news? Hmmm...I have gradually come up with a list of favorite leisure activities to do while not engaged in work. If you are curious, they are as follows in no particular order:

(1) Working Out: The routine of starting everyday out with this is incredible.
(2) Reading the Bible: Try a day with it, then without...I find myself never wanting to miss my daily "feeding".
(3) Guitar: "Music heals the heart"...some famous dude said that.
(4) Campfires: Makes you feel like you're home.
(5) Yo-Yo'ing: Because there's nothing else to spend your money on :)
(6) Juggling: A skill that is useful in some many situation.
(7) Sleeping: I'll get to waste about a 1/4 of my deployment doing this.

So yeah...you all rock...I'll write again soon whenever something interesting enough presents itself. Bye!

Things Are About to Get Crazy...

2010-01-04T04:03:00.001-08:00

Tristan...Wants to be a Soldier Too!

All the Kids (Brother and Sister-In-Law's...Not Mine) Before Their Christmas Play.

Dear Friends,

A good friend of mine told me about 8 months ago that he felt as though God was telling him, "Things are about to get crazy." I have to admit that it looks to be that way for me too. There is a lot of transition in my unit here which I won't go into detail about. Basically, I have a feeling that the next 3 months are going to seem like 3 weeks. There is a lot to do, and I have a lot of responsibility in it. I would appreciate your prayers as I look to work very hard to get things done right.

In other news, in Bible Study we decided to watch "Facing the Giants", a low-budget film with horrible acting but an incredible message that covers it up. I then bring up some applicable scripture to compare with themes of the movie. I'd like to avoid this night becoming a "movie-study", but I am very surprised to see the response from the guys as we go through it. There still continues to be a big need in our base. I have identified a lot of guys on the fence about Jesus. Hopefully He can tip them over to our side. There is still a lot of free time over here for guys to do a lot of soul-searching. My continued prayer is that they find the right stuff to invest in.

Okay, I will write again, but know that I continue to do well. The holidays are over which is kind of a good thing, and I am now only eager to move on to the next big task in a line of many. Bye!

Santa Sighted...No, For Real

2009-12-25T05:48:00.000-08:00

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.

Thank You's

2009-12-21T02:56:00.000-08:00

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!

Blog Update...The Family Edition

2009-12-14T01:42:00.000-08:00

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!

Just More Pics...

2009-12-11T08:10:00.001-08:00

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.

Holiday Love

2009-11-29T02:01:00.001-08:00

School Day...Making My Visit With the Police to the Local School

Soldiers Serving Children Food...Another Picture You Won't See In The News

Me and Some Locals After Some Hot Chai Tea!

Dear Friends,

Thank you all so much for sending me videos, letters, packages, and all other things that are good this holiday season. I'm trying to get out some cards of my own, but unless you send it by the 6th of December there's a pretty good chance that it won't get to the states by Christmas...oh well...I'll have to get moving. In other news I finally made it to the big base after many weeks of letting my hair grow out of control. In addition to getting a much needed haircut, I was able to eat at the big, nice cafeteria. There's really no substitute for that food here in Iraq...we do our best at my little base, but it is truly a treat to fill my belly with the goodness of the big cafeteria.

Anyway, we just started watching a movie called "The Bema Seat" this past Thursday at Bible Study. The response was incredible. The movie is about a man who is retelling his life in a monologue from heaven after the rapture. It's a great low-budget film that struck a chord in everyone who was there. It was revealed that some of these Soldiers weren't even sure whether their salvation was guaranteed...saying that they thought they could loose their salvation if they "messed up" really badly. My commander and I spent a long time taking the group through scripture talking about the assurance of salvation after you commit your life to Christ. It's funny how easy it is to sometimes get a response out of people...just relate to them (in this case we used a movie...something all Soldiers relate to since movie-watching is a preferred past-time for many while deployed). God continues to work here in IRock. I'm almost 3 months into this deployment, but I believe God is just beginning to teach me His lessons this deployment. Luke continues to do well too. I'm gonna go ahead and post his mailing address in case any of you want to send him Christmas letters as well. Please continue to pray for me and the men of Able Company...we continue to be protected no doubt as a result of your prayers. Thank you!

CPT Luke Calvert
HHC, 4/2 SBCT
APO AE, 09344

Numbers And Stuff...

2009-11-23T10:54:00.000-08:00

Rubbing Shoulders With The Locals

Operation Port-a-Potty...Yeah, Its Delivery Was An Actual Mission

Another Beautiful Fahs Girl...Mallory!

Dear Friends,

My job involves a lot of numbers these days...OE254, 1523E(U), M88. These all represent pieces of equipment that I'm constantly trying to make sure that we have. Sometimes it can be frustrating, but who else can tell you everything and anything about a RL39. Ha! Anyway, life continues to chug along. I have a pretty good routine...traveling around a couple of the days each week with enough tasks to keep me busy 'til the end of deployment. There's never a boring day for me here.

The Bible Study also continues to go along well. We have our regulars, but we are trying to get the word out to more people. Recruiting at the Sunday chapel service is a good start. I know that there are more hungry folks here on the base. I just need to seek them out. In other news...well, honestly there's not much other news...oh wait...that whole being an uncle x 3 thing...my niece is absolutely beautiful. See her picture above (Mallory). I'll miss her first few months, but it will be great to finally meet her when I get back home. I miss you all. Until next time!

My Dogs...

2009-11-20T10:32:00.001-08:00

Recent Pic From Our Company's Patching Ceremony

Courage Living Up to Her Name...Hiding In a Corner

Dirty Getting a Night-Time Snack

Duty and I After a Hard Day's Work

Dear Friends,

I can't remember if I mentioned before that we have three dogs here at our base. Well, we do, and all the Soldiers here love them. They all three have very distinct personalities. Courage is the only female, and she does not live up to her name. She is very shy and skiddish until she warms up to you, but once she does she is very sweet. She looks almost like a yellow lab. Dirty lives up to his name. He is a scraggly looking dog always playing in the mud, but he has a great personality...energetic, funny, and super friendly. His name is definitely a term of endearment...everyone likes him...unless he sneaks into the cafeteria (which is the one place the commander forbids him to be). The third dog, and leader of the crew, is Duty. He is a burly-looking dog with a very protective demeanor. He goes out on foot patrols with the Soldiers and barks to keep civilians away. He's actually doing them a favor...making sure they don't walk where they aren't supposed to. Most here say that Duty is their favorite. I personally like all three. Overall, these dogs are a source of comfort and release for most of us here, but we're trying to figure out what to do with them after we leave...we'd hate for them to become "wild dogs".

Okay, so it is the Holiday season...which can make deployed life difficult for some. I am blessed to have family and friends back home sending me all sorts of Christmas cheer. Thank you so much for your support. Also, remember to not feel badly for me...I love my job. Most people can not honestly say that. Deployment continues to be a blessing for me as relationships grow, my faith is tested, and we continue to finish the work America is doing here. I will write again soon. Until then!

p.s. Kate, you can tell your brother that his video is hilarious...I think that someone once said that imitation is the ultimate praise...so Charlie...thank you.

What Day Is It?

2009-11-18T01:28:00.000-08:00

One Of My Favorite Pic So Far...Soccer Balls to Kids In Local Village

Me With Local Villagers and Police

Local Police and Me After a Meeting

Dear Friends,

My job is busy. That is the closest to a complaint that you will get from me. Other than that work is rolling along. My routine is wake-up, read the Bible, work out, meeting, and then work until 10 or 11pm. It makes my days go by very quickly leaving me asking...what day is it?

In other news, we are moving the Bible Study to Thursdays. I have been having a lot of people come up to me this past week and want to talk about spiritual stuff...the Bible, why I am different than other Soldiers, or maybe even just general advice/questions. I guess God saw me ignoring those around me with all the other distractions...so he just brought them to me. An unfortunate report, however, is that one Soldier who had been coming out and asking a lot of questions left the base because of a bad ankle injury requiring surgery. I'm hoping I can touch base with him again when we return back to WA.

What else? The weather is going south in a hurry...cloudy, cold, and rainy. It makes everything more difficult...especially rolling down side roads in Strykers...our recovery crews are getting a lot of practice getting vehicles (Strykers, fork-lifts, port-a-potty cleaning truck) unstuck. Everyone is still safe though. I'll write again soon!

Hard Week To Pick A Headline...

2009-11-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

Giving The Thumbs Up...Before a Mission

PLT Before Training Day

PLT After a Tough Workout

PLT During a Pre-Mission Briefing

Dear Friends,

Much has happened in the past week or so. Let's start here in IRock. I "lost my job" but really got promoted. I say "lost" because I will no longer be leading a platoon on missions. I'm now the XO of my company, the executive officer, or the 2nd in command, or the logistics whiz, etc. Long story short...this is the next step in my career, but it is hard to say goodbye to a job that I've loved and had for over 14 months. They are still in good hand though...the new PL seems like he'll do well. The pictures above are all of my old platoon...good bye my dear Soldiers!

What else? My brother Chris got married in Mexico (destination wedding), and try as I might I never got through on the telephone. My dad sent me pictures via email letting me live vicariously through those who were with him. Everyone there looked like they had a blast. Chris...when you read this...tell the new Mrs. Fahs that I love you both, (she looked beautiful), and I wish that I could have been there.

Also, I saw Luke again. He's doing well, but I think we could both benefit from some more prayer...specifically still that we would get 3 months together during this deployment. I also have an update about my friend Tina who has been ill for the past few weeks. Although she is still recovering, she has improved and is sending us all encouraging reports. Thank you to all who kept her in your prayers (we did a global prayer assault on this one...IRock to WA).

There is more to say, but I commit to keeping posts short...I know that there are only so many minutes in a day. Overall, I am busy learning my job, but I am ready to do it. Thank you for your continued prayers, mail, and support!

Back With a Vengeance...Kinda

2009-10-26T03:43:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

After 2 weeks of battling the "bug" I finally feel as though I am beginning to win the war over this mystery illness. The body aches, fever, 3-day headache, etc. have all but subsided leaving me with an eagerness to begin the rebuilding process. Hopefully I can take it slow though. Nothing like getting back into your routine too quickly. Anyway, life is good. As you can see I included a couple of my favorite pictures from deployment so far. Not everyone in IRock likes Americans, but most do. We give them soccer balls and other stuff. That's really all the kids care about here...soccer balls and gatorade. You probably only continue to hear about all the crazy attacks in this country, but know that much progress is being made too. There has already been much good done...good that will allow Americans to leave this country for good in the near future.

In other news, I saw Luke again yesterday. It's nice being able to make your own mission schedule. You can pretty much go where you want, whenever as long as you have good reasons. Luke just happens to work right next to my commander's office, the big store (PX), and the good cafeteria (chow hall) on the big base. These are all good reasons to visit every couple of weeks. I continue to pray for 3 months living next to Luke though. I read in Luke 11 today about the boldness of prayer (SEE right after the Lord's Prayer). I continue to try and be bold. I will leave you with the most important thing on my heart right now. I have a friend Tina back in Washington who has fallen very ill with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Please pray for her encouragement, quick recovery, and safety during this struggle. Tina, we here in IRock are praying for you too!

p.s. This post is like a week old...I also still haven't been able to post the pictures I've been meaning to...I'm working on it...here's my words for now.

hello

2009-10-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

First Reunion With Luke In IRock After a Month Apart

LT w/ His Mortar Team At a Certification Range In Kuwait

Me and One Of My Team Leaders Minutes Before My First Time Off Base In IRock

Dear Friends,

I promised you more pictures, and now I have them. I will make this post a little short though because I have a busy night ahead of me. Plus, I plan on making another post in 2 days. I've had a lot of missions these past 3 days keeping life busy yet rewarding. My next post will be dedicated to those missions that the American public doesn't hear about...the part about how IRock is doing well in many places...and how the people here mostly like us. The news will tell you something else. There is good happening here, and I get to be a part of it with my guys. Anyway, we have Bible Study again tonight so please pray that it goes well. I continue to battle this "bug". It usually hits me hard for a couple days...then goes away...only to come back again. I'm hoping that I just need to drink a little more water. I will write again soon!

You Could Call It a Good Day...Really Good

2009-10-14T01:55:00.000-07:00

1st Bible Study

The Lewis Group Right Before We All Scattered

Blast From The Past: Go-Karts At Jamie's Bachelor Party

Dear Friends,

You could call October 13th a "good" day. We went back to the big base to get haircuts, buy some stuff, and take care of some business. While there I was able to link in with Luke once again. I woke him up (he's on the night shift...a day-sleeper so he calls himself), but we still chatted for about an hour in his "house". It's amazing to realize just how much I keep inside when I don't have close, Christian friends around me. It's like a period of honesty whenever I get together with him. In short, Luke is David, David is Jonathan.

Also, the other thing that made this a great day was that the Bible Study officially got kicked off. When I first showed up I was the only one there. By the end of the hour we had six. I was laughing earlier about how God says, "For where 2 or 3 come together in my name, there am I with them." (Mt 18:20). Well, He gathered 6. They ranged from one of my Soldiers, my Commander, an NCO, and an Interpreter. I was very encouraged. The spiritual attack on the study, however, was blatantly obvious. I woke up feeling like I got hit by a train...I seriously cannot remember feeling so sick in the past year. In addition, a meeting right before the B.S. went long causing me to have to push it back an hour. Finally, the fliers I put up around the camp all got torn down by someone (it has been quite some time since I've been persecuted for my faith...I'm praying specifically for that person). In the end, I have finally made a move. I believe God is rewarding the effort...as feeble and misdirected as it may be. I've learned through my time in the Word recently that God rewards men of action. Thank you for your continued prayers and support! Until next time...

Still Rolling...Most of the Days

2009-10-11T01:28:00.000-07:00

Brother Chris and Future Wife After His...3rd or 4th Marathon

Mom & Her Dog...Shall I Call It Researching?

Dear friends,

My guys and I continue to roll out on missions everyday. I usually thoroughly love it, and I appreciate all your continued prayers for safety. I feel confident and assured everyday. Also, thank you to everyone who has written, sent packages, or dropped a fb message. It is encouraging to know that I am loved and thought of by you all back home. For someone who prides himself with being fiercely independent, I have grown to enjoy your support!

In other, more important, news...I talked to my commander about starting a Bible Study this week at our base. He was completely on board and said that he was actually meaning to talk to me about it. I'm shooting for this Tuesday as our first meeting. It's not gonna be anything huge or spectacular. I really just want to see who is hungry for God's Word here...and at the same time get a little fellowship going. I believe that I am going to see God do amazing things.

On to other things. I haven't been able to talk to Luke in almost 2 weeks now. I have a feeling that they are working him into the ground. However, he did send me an encouraging piece of information. He has been meeting with and working out with a guy who now is eager to start reading the Bible with Luke. I believe that God is blessing his efforts despite being very busy. Luke and I are still praying that we get at least 3 months together at the same base during this deployment. You can add that to your prayers too. It is specific and bold, but I figure that people have asked God to do crazier stuff. I'll write again soon but know that I am enjoying life right now.

p.s. I just realized that people have been leaving "comments" on some of these posts. Sorry that I have not replied to you...especially to Steve...I know 3 Steve's. I love all 3 of you though.

I Have Better Living Conditions In IRock Than Dupont...Seriously

2009-10-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

Praying For Brandon Peterson Before His Wedding This Past July

Two of My Favorite Girls In The World...Whitney(Niece) and Parents' New Dog

Dear Friends,

I don't want to hint at all that this last year in Dupont was not enjoyable...it was actually quite the opposite. I loved living with those guys even if it meant sharing a house with 6 others. I truly have never experienced community like I did with Luke, Isaac, Eric, Jamie, Mark, Steve, Tim, and the many others who stopped by. I miss you all...but this place I'm now at is awesome! Seriously, it's awesome here. They have pretty good food (fresh fruit, milk, etc...everything I need), a great gym (dirty with all the rustic workout equipment I desire), plenty of space, and my own little room. I haven't had my own room in 7 years! Ha! Internet and phones are also good...so communication shouldn't be a problem. I have everything I need here...and we're finally starting to work!

In other news, my time in the Word continues be strong...Judges, I Corinthians, and Luke continue to bring the heat. My new goal is to start a Bible Study this week. I would like prayer that the word would get out to the right people...people that God has been preparing for this base. I don't want to limit God and what He has in mind for this place...I just want to be a part of His work. I hope to report good news next week.

p.s. I continue to take sweet pictures with no way to post them since my camera-to-computer cable is in a packed bag right now. You'll have to enjoy a few pictures of the past right now.

Reunion With Luke...

2009-09-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

God finally made it happen. I was able to make the 6 mile hike across several bases IOT link up with Luke. It was completely "ordained". Luke was in the middle of switching schedules and had about 5 hours free which he normally wouldn't have. I also had the day free leading to a great afternoon of catching up and much needed, strong fellowship. He is an incredible encouragement to me. I've learned the true meaning of Pr. 27:17 through him. You can pray for Luke as he continues to work very long hours in a very demanding job. We both agree that we have received undue favor in the eyes of our commanders and those around us. God is blessing us for something big. We can only hope to live up to His uses. Our consistent, bold prayer is for 3 months together (everyday in close proximity) sometime during the deployment.

Work continues to go along well. We are pretty much ready and waiting with random tasks here and there. The guys look good yet uncertainty bothers the majority of us. I'm claiming Isaiah 26:3 and its promise of peace. I'll write again soon!

IRock! I'm Not Conceited...That's Just How I'm Spelling It.

2009-09-23T06:05:00.000-07:00

Right Before A Range In Kuwait...It Wasn't Too Hot Yet at 6am.

A Kuwait Sunrise...Told You It Was Beautiful!

Dear Friends,

I am indeed now in IRock. Please don't feel bad or worried for me...yet (j/k). I'm still at one of the big FOB's in the capital city waiting to move to a smaller base. They have wireless internet (for a fee), gyms, and an awesome dining hall. Seriously, I guarantee that I'm eating better food than 99% of you out there...except for Kate, but she's a nutritionist...kinda unfair for me to challenge that. Anyway, living conditions are a little cramped, but apparently the next base will be quite nice...and relatively safe. Truth be told "we" are not really the main targets anymore. The danger is always there, but it seems like not much is happening here during the draw down. Most of the time I feel like I am back down in Louisiana doing training. The realness has not yet set in. I imagine that will come in the next few weeks.

Anyway, this will probably be the last time I mention anything about what I'm actually doing here for missions. Just know that I'm doing well and that I feel your prayers working. I'm trying hard to figure out a way to get to Luke sometime this week. Despite being on a connected base, he is very far away (like miles). God will provide an opportunity though. Okay, so here's my address now...it'll also be on the side margin of the blog once this post gets pushed down. Send whatever...letters, good books (I've been reading a ton already), love (can you package that?), and anything else you'd like. Thanks to all who have been thinking/praying for me!

1LT David M. Fahs

4/2 SBCT

HHC, 4-9 IN

Mortar Platoon

APO AE, 09344

A Time Of Firsts...

2009-09-21T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I can describe the past 7-10 days (I think that's about how many days I've been here?) as a time period of firsts...my first sand storm, my first 110 degree day, my first encounter with camels, and of course my first time outside the continental U.S. It started off rough as I constantly had to ask myself, "Is this real life?" Time zones switched, my body revolted in response to a lack of sleep, and my mind grew clouded as I tried to stay on top of all the changing plans that were coming down. As of right now we are just waiting...

God has been answering my prayers whether I want Him to or not. I prayed that I'd have at least one spiritually centered conversation a day with someone, and the way this has been fulfilled has been almost comical. My vehicle commander will ask me a question over the radio like, "Why is there pain in the world?" as we cruise down a dirt road at 45mph. Someone will see me reading my Bible on my bunk, and they'll find out all about what I'm reading at that time. I still pray for more opportunities and boldness though. I feel spiritually fat here as I constantly take in the Word and Prayer during rich devotionals on a daily basis, yet I don't always "work it out" through conversations with others. Anyway, I can't post pictures yet, but trust me when I say that I already have some good ones. You should see a desert sunrise!

p.s. My mailing address will be posted on here in less than 24 hours!

Germany...Yah?

2009-09-12T18:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I finally made it across the Atlantic. We are currently somewhere in Germany, and this is quite a momentous occasion for me. It is the first time I have ever stepped foot out side of North America. Everything is a little strange here. The "Y" is in a different place on the keyboard. They also insist on putting strange alien symbols like Ä, §, and Ö on all the signs instead of English words (someone told me this was "German" writing...strange, I didn't know the Germans were aliens). Anyway, I have a feeling that the culture shock will only get more severe as I travel further East. I should go now...they are charging me 0.13€ per minute and I'm not sure what a "€" is (perhaps this is the intergalactic dollar sign?). Wish me luck, and I will write again as soon as I am able!

The Day Has Finally Arrived...

2009-09-11T05:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

The day HAS finally arrived as I sit here at Bangor International Airport in Maine. I'm awaiting the flight that will take me across the great Atlantic into Ireland and then beyond. It's funny because I've anticipated this moment for more than 7 years since I first started ROTC at Wheaton College and the war was just ramping up. However, I have almost no anxiety about the situation. True, I have been pleasantly distracted for the past month not allowing my usual self to get anxious, but that's not the entire story. God has given me a strange peace about the whole situation that has allowed me to actually be excited about rather than nervous about my changing situation. God is going to be doing amazing things this next year, and I get to be a part of it.

As I close this post I can't help but think of a story that Luke told me about his return from his last deployment. He tells about how beautiful the Maine landscape looked as his flight touched down- blue skies, green trees, and gorgeous lakes. It was pretty emotional for him since he had spent the previous 3 months deployed. I too look forward to returning in a year...but a year of service and hard work will make it all the more enjoyable. Pray for me...these are my 4 main prayer requests right now.

(1) To stay in the Word and Prayer daily as part of a personal discipline.
(2) To find fellowship quickly and stay connected with other Christians in my unit.
(3) To be bold in sharing my faith in Jesus whenever possible.
(4) Protection for my guys.

2025...The Rise and Fall of a Broken Empire

2009-08-19T16:48:00.000-07:00

Steve Magee and Me During a Washington Sunset

The Team At Camp Muir: 10,500 ft

Dear Friends,

2025 Garry Oaks has officially disbanded. Luke deploys this weekend and I follow about a week later. We've actually already moved out of the house into Mark Lee's new place down the street. It is a temporary home for most of us given our upcoming schedule. We had our last meal together at McNamara's last week since Tim was leaving for 2 weeks vacation. It has been quite a ride here the last year, but I have to confess that it has been the best year of my life so far. It has been so rewarding and fueling to be around guys who share common interests and a common goal to tell others about Jesus. I hope that I can find a similar situation when I return in a year. It has been great.

In more recent news, I finally visited Mt. Rainier this last weekend with a few friends. We hiked from Paradise to Camp Muir which is the base camp for everyone going to the peak. It was cold, windy, and breathtaking. The ascent was a smoker, but the descent was a blast as we tumbled down the glacier snow as fast as we could. Who knew that you could ski with regular shoes? Anyway, this Thursday is my Brigade Ball which should be fun, and then Friday is my going away party with Luke. It will be another full weekend.

Recipe For Vacation...

2009-08-13T18:42:00.000-07:00

Cousin Jeff, Sis-In-Law-To-Be Sara, Bro Chris, Mom, Me, Dad, Cousin Ingrid
The Crew Right Before One Of The Many Amazing Home Cooked Meals!

Me (Sporing My Hicksville T-Shirt), Cousin J9, and Her Husband Aaron

Dear Friends,

Let me give you all my recipe for a 2 week vacation:

- Start With 1 Part Sleeping in to 10am Every Day

- Sprinkle Some Kettle Bell Workouts and Protein Shakes

- Add About 2 Hours of Reading the Bible and Other Good Books

- Thrown In Some Visiting Friends and Family

- Stir Vigorously With Steak Dinners, Jet skis, and Pond Watching

- End With Being So Relaxed That You Forget to Put On Shoes While Leaving the House

This has been my perfect vacation right before my year long vacation. I used to think that vacations meant sight seeing and activities 24/7. I now know that my life has enough adventure during the normal days...I simply need time off. Thanks to everyone who had the ability to come and see me in Hicksville. You made the vacation. I'm sorry for those of you I missed. We'll try again in about 14 months. Also, I will be around until early September so there is still time to call me and catch up. Until then I will be out in Washington making last minute preparations. Hopefully it's not too crazy though. Until next time!

I Can't Escape The Heat...At Least It's Sunny Though

2009-07-28T10:26:00.000-07:00

For Those Of You Who Have Been Wondering...What Does David Travel In?

Dear Friends,

If you have seen the national weather reports, then you know that it is abnormally hot here in Washington (daily in the 100's). You may think, "No big deal." However, you are forgetting that temperatures are so mild in WA that only about 5% of the houses and buildings have AC. I feel like I'm sleeping in a sauna. The good side of that is that weather is absolutely beautiful during the day. We have definitely been taking advantage of the sun by going to the coast, playing frisbee, and doing all sorts of other activities which give us an excuse to get outside.

The guys in the house and the Bible Study continues to go well. I always see new faces coming out which surprising considering all the people leaving for deployment. I am going home to Ohio this Saturday and will be there from the 1st to the 16th of August. My plan is to do nothing but relax, read, and entertain whatever guests drop by. Hope to see you!

Beautiful Weather!

2009-07-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Presently the weather in Washington is beautiful...60s at night and 80s during the day. The sun is a familiar friend and the rain is a rarity. I am a little disappointed that I will end up missing the majority of the Washington summer with all the traveling I'm doing, but I'll enjoy it while I have it. In other news, work is very easy right now in comparison to the past few months. There's usually something to do but hardly ever any late nights. I'm trying to take advantage of it. We are supposed to get some new Soldiers soon...we'll see what sort of crop they are.

My roommate Isaac got engaged this weekend to his now fiance Lindsay. It was pretty cool. He proposed at one of the local beaches and then took her back to our house where we threw a party. The rest of my weekend was spent pretty low key. I'm still trying to recover from June! I'll write again later.

I'm Back...

2009-07-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

My Last Jump Of The Ski Season...O How I Miss The Snow!

Our Hotel In Canada...Robes Were Provided Free Of Charge

Dear Friends,

I am back in Washington and it feels great! My time down in Louisiana was good...hot, but we got some good training under our belts as a result. There are too many highlights to summarize, but know that God was good to my Battalion. We had no serious accidents and no heat injuries...although it was ridiculously hot and humid. In addition, I really do feel that we are ready now to deploy.

Anyway, I have come to realize that I have missed a lot of things this last month other than just my family and friends...healthy food, cool WA weather, cold water, and the ability to escape the Army for small periods of time. I actually think that is one of the advantages of the Army. You are taken out of your element so often that you never really get complacent. You are constantly reminded of the good, normal things in life as you change scenery every couple of months.

The coming months will be spent in transit. I'll be in Ohio for the first 2 weeks in August. I'll be in Idaho this next weekend for Brandon Peterson's wedding. The other weekends will be packed with last minute road trips and relaxation. I will continually be challenged by work, the Ft. Lewis ministry, and everything else, but I'm looking forward to it. See you later!

It's Hot...But It'll Get Hotter

2009-06-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

Yeah, That's Right...We Went to An Aquarium.

3 Amigos...Shortly Before Freefall at 10,500 ft

In Washington Too Long...Officially Now a Treehugger

Dear Friends,

It has been hot here in Washington for the past few days (temps in the 90s when normal temps this time of year are in the 60s). However, in just 4 days I'll be in Louisiana where the high temperatures mix with humidity, bugs, and challenging weather. Despite the weather forecast, though, I'm looking forward to training with the platoon. We have some new faces since the last time we did full scale platoon training. I think we'll learn a lot to prepare us for our upcoming vacation overseas. The heat will actually serve as a good test.

Anyway, I unfortunately do have extra staff duty twice this week which kinda eats up the last of my free time right before we leave. I'm using it to catch up on some reading and other stuff that I've put off here at work. Again, I hate to leave the guys here at Lewis right when the Bible Study is exploding, but God's timing is perfect I've found. I would like prayer for my platoon to perform well, for me to remain positive, and for me to find opportunities to speak about Jesus. I find that time away from the normal often is the true test of your character. I'll be busy, but I don't want to neglect the most important thing...namely J.C. This will be my last message until July so good-bye until then!

Pretty Soon...I'm Gonna Leave

2009-05-29T16:43:00.001-07:00

Tim and I Right After We Landed From Skydiving

Tim, Luke, and I In Front Of Whistler Mountain (Beautiful and Awesome Biking!)

Dear Friends,

Well, this week was a sad one as I lost my incredibly experienced platoon sergeant. He got promoted and as a result moved on. However, his replacement is highly regarded in the Battalion and actually even more experienced in some ways. Anyway, work is in a sort of suspension right now as all our equipment is in transit and we are going to follow quickly behind (for a month down South training). It's gonna be a hot one!

My house, the Bible study, and the overall Navs ministry here seems to be exploding at the most inopportune of times...right before everyone deploys. A lot of new guys are coming out...and they keep coming out which is not always the case. God continues to put hungry Soldiers in our path on days when we recruit for the study. I hope to carry this momentum into this next months. I leave next week for a month, though, and may not get another note off. If not, then please pray for my platoon's performance, for me to find fellowship with other Christians while away, and for me to share Jesus with as many guys as possible. Until next time!

Canada O Canada...

2009-05-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

So normally I have to kinda hit the highlights of my week to make my life sound more glamorous than it really is. This week (especially this weekend) was an exception. I left work at 2 o'clock on Thursday and got in a car for Canada. During this excursion to the North much happened. We toured the grand city of Vancouver seeing the sights and meeting folks from all over the globe. It turns out that Vancouver is a working destination for the nations...folks get work visas for two years to Canada and many gather in Vanouver. Our favorite folks came from Australia. Also, we went skydiving on our way up to Whistler. Once in Whistler we spent a day at the beach, went mountain biking in arguably the best place in the world, and met many more foreigners. Whistler is becoming even busier than normal since the Winter Olympics will be held there in less than a year. I'd suggest that anyone with the chance should go there either for skiing or mountain biking.

There was much more, but I hit the highlights. This next week will be busy at work loading up trains and getting ready for a month in training down South. I am looking forward to getting back into the swing of things after a much needed break.

Another Weekend...Another Guitar

2009-05-09T18:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I have been doing well lately. Work is continuously moving with increasing speed, but we basically spent the entire last week packing. It has been a learning experience. This weekend I went pistol shooting with my friend Mark. He's a much better marksman than me, but I need to start shooting more in anticipation for my upcoming vacation. Also, I decided to buy a guitar to take on deployment. Since we're already packing I went ahead and bought a Martin to bring along. It's not as nice as my Taylor, but it will be awesome to have a good guitar to travel with. It's a composite body to assist in surviving the elements.

In addition, our Saturday morning workouts continue to be smokers (did I ever mention this?...well, a group of us from the Navs get together every Saturday morning to do workouts and try to get the word out about the bible study). Today we had 7 guys come out which is really encouraging. It's difficult to plan with bigger numbers but worth it to see more new guys connecting. I'll write more soon...for now, however, adios!

p.s. Tim gets back in 2 days!

Did I Forget to Update?...What Else Have I Forgotten?

2009-05-05T18:30:00.001-07:00

From a Dunk Contest From One of Our Recent Cookouts...Beautiful Weather Finally!
My Dad and His Bees...Need I Say More?

Dear Friends,

My roommate Luke and I were just talking this weekend about how quickly time is flying by these days. It makes me wonder what kind of stuff I'm forgetting about. Anyway, life continues to roll forward at an increasing pace these days. Work consists of a lot of packing and preparing with little bits of Army training thrown in. Weekends continue to be a blast. Tim gets home next weekend from his post-Ranger break, but the other roommates and I went to a minor league baseball game on Friday. Our team lost, but I made up for it with a hot dog and some dippin' dots. We bought some new furniture for the house of Saturday and got done a whole bunch of other errands. Luke and I also started this sort of work out club on Saturday mornings called "Cross-Fit"...pun intended. We're trying to use it as an outreach tool to get time around guys who might otherwise feel awkward going to a Bible Study or chapel.

There's also a lot of other big news in the Fahs world, but much of the news has already been passing itself down the information highway. Stay tuned to see what craziness is on the horizon.

End of An Era...So Much To Tell

2009-04-12T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

This past week has been a busy one. My platoon finally got out of the field after our evaluations. They did great and we got recognized for the accomplishments. We have a long way to go before deployment, but it is encouraging to see the rapid improvement with the guys. In order to reward myself Luke, his friend Mike, and I went skiing one last time this year on Friday. The conditions were foggy, but the snow was soft which made for a good day. We came home and enjoyed a huge steak dinner at Outback. That restaurant has kinda become our "spot". Tim Frazier also passed Mountain Phase of Ranger School on Friday and will be graduating hopefully in 3 weeks. It will be good to have him back. He has been sorely missed. Our chapel closed today after its final service due to a lack of chaplain support with the coming deployments. Bible Study continues to go well though. We are coming and going a lot ourselves, but it is exciting to see God working here at Lewis with the young Soldiers. My main prayer is for God to continue to push me to growth along with the guys I'm living with (II Peter 3:18).

Anyway, I had to work yesterday pulling staff duty, but I still have tomorrow off as part of the Easter 4-day weekend. I'm gonna go ahead and do a whole bunch of chores which I have been putting off for the last month: pick up dry cleaning, pack up some extra stuff into storage, etc. There won't be much down time left here in a couple months.

Into the Box...So to Speak

2009-04-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Today I am going "into the box" for my Platoon's evaluations. It will be 48-72 hours of continuous operations with a focus on the current situation overseas and the problems the Army is facing there. It should be exhausting but a lot of fun. I'm not really even sure where this last week went...we were in the field training up for this event for 5 days. Now we're going out again for 3 days. I'd appreciate prayer for my own performance as well as my platoon's. We've only been training on these things for about a month, and it seems like we're behind the general power curve. We'll do our best.

Things at the house apparently are going well. I haven't been around for a week, but I got word that the Bible Studies were going well. Life is getting crazy busy with a deployment on the horizon, but at least I'm having fun! God continues to be good...He always is. I'll write again soon.

More Shooting, Another Party, Forgetting to Catch My Breath...

2009-03-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I truly did feel like I was forgetting to breath this week sometimes. Work continues to go at a lightning pace requiring me to feel like I'm in constant catch-up mode. However, the training continues to go well. We did our squad live fire this last week, and it was great. This next week we are going out to the field for 9 days. It will be good training, but I have a feeling that the boys will be pretty beat up after it. It really is the last big training event before June though. I could use prayer myself that I get some good training and knowledge out of it personally.

We also has another party at our house on Saturday with the theme of "M": we had a Mormon (complete with white shirt, bike helmet, and genuine smile), a movie star, a metal-man, a mafia hit-man, and much more. It was basically an excuse for us to have people over again. I think that it was a hit. We may have to get a bigger house if more people keep coming over. Anyway, I have to get back to some work, but I will write again in 2 weeks after I get back from the field.

Crazy Week...3 More To Go

2009-03-20T15:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

This last week has been pretty crazy at work. We did a live fire exercise, and we are now preparing for another one next week...and the week after that...and the week after that. Basically, the next month will be very busy. I always feel like I'm one step behind, and there is a lot of training that needs to be done. Also, there is not a lot of time to do it. I'm lucky to have good Soldiers to work with though. I'm confident we'll get to where we need to be.

Life around the house has also been busy but fun. We had a good showing of new guys at our house dinner on Thursday. I walked into the house after 3 days straight in the field, smelling like BO, and it was a pleasant surprise to have a good showing of folks at the house. Luke's little bro left today, but he had a blast while here. He's a good kid. Anyway, this weekend I plan on relaxing and eating a big steak dinner. I think I'll go for a walk too. Until the next time!

p.s. Tim passed Benning Phase of Ranger School!

End of the Ski Season?

2009-03-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

The big news this week is that Luke's little bro Seth is in town. He came up on Friday, and we've been trying our best to show him a good time since. We went skiing on Saturday at Crystal Mountain but had to end early 'cause Seth took a pretty nasty fall. We have some pretty sweet pics with the rescue workers of Ski Patrol though (don't worry...he's fine). Anyway, we saw a movie later that night and have been trying to do as manly of stuff as possible (ie. throw knives, eat beef jerky, wrestle large mammals, etc). Seth has been enjoying himself. This may have been the last time I go skiing though this year. I've decided that I am gone too much on the weekends and probably need to relax for the next month or so.

In other news, work is busy but enjoyable. I feel incompetent every day but in a good-spur-me-to-be-better type of way. Ministry is also going well with the Navs. Despite everyone leaving post and our schedules getting busy, now is the time that God has decided to give us some new guys in the Bible Study. I love God's sense of humor. His timing never seems logical until years after the moment. I'll write again soon. I've attached a pic of Seth and Luke on the mountain. Also, for those of you who have never met Andrew...he's the guy leading the ministry up here at Lewis (pic of me and him).

Skiing Like The Videos...

2009-03-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Have you ever seen videos of skiers gliding down the mountain, floating atop 3 feet of fresh powder, and eating up 6 foot drops like they were going over a small bump? Well, that was me this weekend. My roommate Eric and I went to Snoqualmie and experienced the best snow conditions I've ever seen. The snow had been pouring down for the past week, and it was awesome. I am truly spoiled with the mountains here in Washington.

Anyway, work continues to roll along. We have learned that we are definitely deploying early before next Christmas. What that means for me is a busier and more condensed training schedule. I've got a good team now, but it should be pretty challenging to get the platoon to where it needs to be. You can remember me in prayer by asking God to make me a strong leader for these guys. They deserve it.

Stuff with the Navs is also going well. We've seen a bit of a dry spell due to most of the units here at Lewis going out on training rotations in anticipation for the upcoming deployment, but I am hopeful that the ministry will continue to grow. There will always be a need for Jesus in the Army. I'll be sure to write again soon. Next weekend I may be going for a little trip!

Rockstars In Washington...

2009-03-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Work this week...well, I didn't get a lot of sleep and we shot a whole bunch of mortars. We also released over half of our soldiers in the mortar platoon to be divided out to other parts of the Battalion. The long-story-short is that I now have a much more manageable group of soldiers. I'm looking forward to the smaller group.

Anyway, the roommates and I had a great time this weekend...grabbing some meals, hangin' out, and throwing a Rockstar Party. You are probably asking what a Rockstar Party is. Well, combine Rockband the video game, 20 people, and your imagination. It was pretty sweet. Famous artists such as Michael Bolton, Katy Perry, and Bill & Ted (from Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure the movie) were in attendance. So I must be going, but I will talk with you all again soon.

Lose One But Gain Another...

2009-02-14T19:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

This week has been a week of loss and of gain. We lose Tim to Ranger School for hopefully only 3 months. You can keep him in your prayers...he will face a lot of challenges in the weeks ahead. However, we also gain Eric to the house. He is fresh back from deployment and it is great to have him back. This weekend I have already gone to Crystal Mountain and skied with a few friends. It is absolutely beautiful up there. I still have a lot of that mountain to explore. It was HUGE!

Anyway, the rest of the weekend should be relaxing as I finally catch up on a lot of stuff that I've been pushing to the back burner. A lot of the guys from Bible Study are gone to New York this weekend too for a conference. It should be pretty quiet here in Washington. I'm looking forward to it. Bye!

Parents Visit and Shooting Some More...

2009-02-08T17:06:00.001-08:00

Dear Friends,

The last 2 weeks...in fact the last month has flown by quickly. Work keeps me busy and the rumor mill is running wild with deployments, Obama, and Afghanistan/Iraq. My mortar platoon, however, just keeps shooting. There's not much we can do besides train. Life outside of the Army is still going well too. The Bible Study is great. We keep getting new guys coming out, and I continue to see a need for guys like us sharing Jesus with soldiers at Fort Lewis. It's hard to balance all the activities of life, but I'm getting better at staying true to my priorities.

Anyway, my parents are here this weekend, and we have had a cookout, shot handguns, toured Fort Lewis, and explored some of the local Parks and Nature Reserves. They leave tomorrow, but it has been a good stay. I'll write again soon...this next weekend should be fun (4-day holiday).

Crazy Fog, Luke Is Back, and More Skiing

2009-01-23T14:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

This week was crazy with the fog. There were times when I literally couldn't see further than 10 meters in front of me on the road. It delayed our first mortar shoot too, but we ended up being able to fire the rounds when the fog broke a little in the afternoon on Wednesday. This week my roommate Luke also got back from an 11-day trip across the country flying some helicopters here from Fort Bragg, NC. It is good to have him back. Other than that life is continuing to only get busier. I'm going skiing again this weekend with some friends. I can't believe how lucky I am. I have 5 ski resorts within 2 hours of my front door. I'd appreciate prayer for our Bible Study as we continue to recruit new guys to come out, get into the Word ourselves, and encourage each other. I really am lucky to have Tim, Isaac, and Luke to live with. Anyway, I'll update again soon. Also, the pictures are from our retreat this last weekend and a Delorian (Back to the Future) Sports Car I saw in Seattle.

4-Day Break...Portland and Skiing

2009-01-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

These past 2 weeks have started off busy at work, but we are rolling right along. We'll be doing our first live fire range this next week. Everyone is pretty excited about it. So yeah, we immediately got a nice 4-day weekend after only being back 2 weeks. I spent the majority of my time down in Portland with the rest of the guys from my Bible Study. It was a really great time to focus on Jesus (not that this isn't the end goal of everyday), see Portland, and spend time with everyone. Portland probably has the most character of any city I've ever been too...anti-war protests, robot-impersonators, and the country's largest bookstore were the highlights I hit this time. I ended the weekend with a trip to Snoqualmie Snow Resort. It was the first time I had skied in 9 years, but I picked up surprisingly fast. I'm nursing a few bruises but nothing serious. Until the next time...

A Break Well Spent...

2009-01-01T16:25:00.001-08:00

Dear Friends,

These last 10 days have gone by way too fast, but I guess that just goes to show that it was time well spent. I was with my parents and brothers for the 1st 5 days, and after that I got see most of my friends from high school. I seemed to miss a lot of other people, but I guess that's just the way it goes. I'm currently packing getting ready for my return flight home tomorrow. Apparently I will be welcomed by another snow storm. Oh well, as long as work doesn't get cancelled again due to snow and ice, then I think my platoon's training will be able to start up again okay. Overall I feel recharged and ready to get back to Washington. It will be good to be around the Nav guys and my roommates again. I think it's gonna be a good next couple of months for me. Anyway, I will write again soon when more needs to be written. Bye!

Holidays...

2008-12-20T14:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

I am going home for the holidays, but the funny thing about "home" now is that it is not all in one place. 22nd-23rdDEC I'm in Chicago. 24th-26thDEC I'm in Ohio. And 27thDEC-02JAN I'm in Chicago again. Anyway, work was crazy this last week. Washington has no idea what to do when it snows so we actually had late call every day for work, and one day work was completely cancelled. The Army had a snow day- lame right? So now all but one of the roommates are already gone, and I'm really just trying to get some last minute things done before I leave. Our house's Bible Study is also taking leave until we all get back in January. I'm sure that we'll be ready to go, though, once everyone gets back

Life right before the holidays has ended quickly with a flurry of crazy work days, Christmas parties, and good time spent with the housemates. And now there's really only one thing left to do. I'll end with a list (not all inclusive) of people I'd like to see over break. Mom, Dad, brothers (and their respective families), Micah, Steve, Brad, Adam, Ben, Ann, Amy, all cousins and uncles/aunts in Chi-town, and anyone else I may be missing. Keep in touch!

Escape the Mainland...

2008-12-14T15:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

This weekend was one of the best so far here in Washington. Luke, Tim, Isaac, Jamie, Andrew and I all took the ferry to Anderson Island this weekend. It was awesome to get away with the guys especially since we'll all be going our separate ways soon for Christmas. The house we stayed at was epic: a fire stove to heat, plenty of room, and a family of tamed deer who seemed to really like Luke. We also ended up eating at the island's restaurant and relaxing away the majority of our weekend. It only took us about 20 minutes to drive all the way around the island, and it seemed like everyone there knew everyone else. To top that off, the snow finally came this weekend. It's very unlike this part of Washington to snow in December, but we'll take it. I'll consider it an intro to the winter I'm sure awaits me for me Christmas Break in Chicago. Anyway, I have 5 more days of work, and then leave begins. Should be fun!

Promotions and Other Stuff...

2008-12-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

My Company Commander Pinning On My Rank

My Battalion Commander and I

Dear Friends,

I have mostly good news to share. Within the last 2 weeks I have been promoted to 1st Lieutenant, received my new platoon sergeant, and been able to run several shooting ranges including my first mortar range. Work has definitely been enjoyable. Unfortunately, I was supposed to be going to Combatives Level II school for the next week, but I was pulled from the course last minute due to overbooking. I'll get to go eventually though.

The new Bible Study that my house has been starting is extremely volatile...we have 12 guys out one week and then 6 the next. We're hoping and praying that God gives us a couple core guys to really build the study off of. In the words of the famous movie, "We're looking for a few good men." (2 Tm 2:2) Life is incredibly busy, but I am enjoying Washington. I can't believe that I've been out here for over 6 months already...and over 1.5 years in the Army! It's crazy. I'll see all you Chicagoinians soon. Until then!

New Eyes...

2008-11-15T22:29:00.001-08:00

Halloween Night (Above), Steph Pauls Visiting Seattle (Below)

Dear Friends,

I have my new eyes. They are the same color, roughly the same size, and still sparkle like stars, but slowly I am gaining eagle eye sight. They say it will take about 3 months until they finally stabilize, but I am already seeing pretty well. Anyways, I really just laid around for the past 4 days. I've listened to a lot of music, used a lot of eye drops, and ultimately drifted in and out of consciousness. It has been complete relaxation. However, I am looking forward to getting back to work. There's another 3 day weekend here in 2 weeks for Thanksgiving so that is my next checkpoint before the holidays. Work should keep me busy, and I hope that we can get some good training in before the break. My roommate Isaac is supposed to get back tomorrow so that is the other big news. We'll just be waiting on Eric to get back from the Philippines after that. He's gone until at least late January. My week really hasn't been exciting or eventful otherwise. I guess that's sometimes a good thing though. Bye.

Hello Again...

2008-11-10T14:01:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Much has been happening since the last time I wrote. To begin with, we had a killer Halloween Party last week. We ended up having a little party at the house and then we visited one of our friends who was stuck working at Starbucks. It was a fun time. In other news, the platoon is doing well. My guys have managed to stay out of trouble for the most part, and we are trying to get some good training in before Christmas Leave. I'm also due to get my new platoon sergeant in about 2 weeks. That should be good. He'll be the last key piece of leadership that we're missing in the platoon right now. Finally, Isaac Fones is finally returning from Iraq after a 5 month deployment. He's a Blackhawk helicopter pilot whom I got to know pretty well before he left. It will be great to have him back at the house.

This next week I'll be out of the fight so to speak. I'm getting PRK surgery to correct my vision which basically requires you to take it easy for about 5 days after the surgery. I won't be able to go to work or work out for about a week which is probably a good thing. Also, for those who care...my Christmas Leave will be from 22Dec to 02Jan, and I'll be in Chicago for the most part. Give me a call if you will be around. Until then!

Sorry So Long...

2008-10-15T20:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I am sorry that it has been so long since my last post. With Jamie getting married, work getting super busy, and my computer crashing I have found it hard to keep up all my old routines. This blog was one of the first to suffer. Anyway, life has been very interesting. My platoon constantly keeps me on my toes. In addition to that, we are starting to shoot our weapons a lot more at ranges during the work week. Today I was even able to shoot in addition to my guys...it was one of the first times I've shot in over a year. Overall, work is challenging yet enjoyable every single day. I'm learning something new all the time. I also got a new platoon sergeant today. I'm supposed to be getting even more help in the next couple weeks. I'm looking forward to it.

Tim Frazier, an old friend from Wheaton College's ROTC program, just moved into the house here in Dupont on Monday. Right now we have 2 roommates deployed, Isaac and Eric, with myself, Tim, Luke, and Steve still living here. It's really awesome to live with guys who have the same values and goals. I'm definitely encouraged and strengthened daily from living with these guys. They all love Jesus and are not ashamed to share this with others. Hopefully I'll get my computer up and running soon. Until then!

Still Rolling...

2008-09-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I am still rolling around these days. This week was long simply because I worked from Sunday straight into Monday without even leaving the office. Training was pretty fun though. We got to go run around in the woods doing Land Navigation. I'm now taking the weekend to relax a little and hang out with some friends here in Washington. There's a chance that I'll be going to Oregon next weekend which is cool because my family lived there before I was born. I might be able to finally see what they were always talking about.

In other news my roommate Jamie is getting married in 2 weeks! It's crazy, but we all like his fiance Courtney. We'll be losing a roommate but kinda gaining a sister. We accept the trade. Anyway, the rain finally came this week after months of the most beautiful weather I've ever experienced. We'll see if we get any glimpses of the sun this week. Laters!

Piano Bars and Fairs

2008-09-13T23:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

This week was interesting. My guys in the platoon always keep me learning. I feel like I fill out a new form and deal with a new issue every day. I'm getting to know them better, though, and I am loving work. The Army is a great place to be.

This weekend was great too. Friday night we went to a dueling piano bar called "Chopsticks". I've always wanted to go to one, and I finally was able to. They played everything from The Police & The Eagles to Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z. It was like a 5-hour sing-a-long. Saturday my roommates and I went to the Puyallup Fair here in Washington. We rode roller-coasters, ate elephant ears, and admired the many attractions at the fair. However, tomorrow I have to give up my Sunday and work for Staff-Duty. It stinks, but I actually will use it to get some work done. Laters!

A Full Week...

2008-09-06T22:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Life is only getting busier. This week seemed to be over before it even began. I lots of work to do and not enough time to do it, but I feel that becoming a better manager of time is a natural progression in my life. You can pray specifically that I get some new soldiers who can help me manage and lead my platoon. It should be a really big transition period for the next few months.

Anyway, this weekend has been great. Yesterday I just crashed from the weekend, and today I was able to meet with some folks who I haven't gotten a chance to hang out with recently. I was basically a good day to catch up. Also, my roommates and I went to a local pub and caught the Ultimate Fighting Championship fight. We all love the fights, and ultimately it's just a good time to hang out.

The pictures posted are some of those from my Seattle visit last week. Enjoy!

4 Day Weekend...And a New Roommate

2008-08-29T15:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

This week was an easy one. We had 2 ceremonies which ate up most of our time on Monday & Thursday, and Friday marked the first day of a 4 day weekend in honor of Labor Day. I also have exciting news in that I have a new roommate, Luke. He is a Kiowa helicopter pilot who just got back to Ft. Lewis after a 4 month deployment. We've already gotten to spend some time hanging out, and I think I'll enjoy living with him.

Saturday I finally got to travel to Seattle and spend some time with some friends from Wheaton who were now working there. We toured a good portion of the city but here are the day's highlights; we chatted and watched "free-style" walkers at Gas Works Park, we visited the giant troll under Freemont's bridge, and we saw the center of the universe street sign. At the end of the night we were invited into a wedding party. We didn't know the bride or groom, but apparently they didn't care. Seattle people were strangely friendly. These highlights would make a lot more sense if I had pictures, but unfortunately I left my camera at a friends house. I'll post them when I get them. Until then!

The Big Dance...I Guess It's a "Ball" Technically

2008-08-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

Me and Some of the New LT's (Haynes, Taylor, Lee, & Me)

Dear Friends,

This week has been one to remember. I started off on Monday working 36 hrs straight without sleep due to pulling extra "staff duty". The rest of the weekdays flew bye as work and friends kept me going non-stop. This Friday was also eventful since it was the first time that I ever went to a casino. The games themselves were a blast not to mention the characters who sat down at the tables with us. I ended up loosing to the casino, but my friend won over $500. Needless to say, he bought dinner. I can't say that I'll be back anytime soon, but it was a ton of fun.

Saturday night was my first official military ball. It is called the Manchu Ball (after our Regimental mascot which happens to be a 5-toed Chinese Dragon called the Manchu). I enjoyed myself but look forward to not having to go to one again anytime soon. Tomorrow is early morning time in the Word, chapel, ultimate frisbee, Bible study, and then off to start another week. Laters!

By the way...my roommate Jamie loves Halo 3. Here's a picture of him playing. He claims to be, and I quote, "Awesome!"

First Week...

2008-08-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

The Roommates right before I went to Mortar Leader's and Eric & Isaac deployed...

Eric, Me, Isaac, Jamie, & Steve

Dear Friends,

I had a vision of what my first week as a platoon leader would be. I'd show up, report to my commander, and then meet my platoon sergeant (PSG). After that my PSG would introduce me to my platoon who would be doing some sweet live fire exercise. At the end of the day I'd stand in front of my platoon and give an introductory speech. The rest of the week would be a storm of initial counselings, training plans, and other baptisms by fire.

Me Camping Spring 2007

The reality of the situation is that my first week as a PL was anything but ideal. I barely even met my platoon because the other PL is still around, and I've been tasked out to do other stuff. It's been good, but I am learning quickly that my present situation is anything but typical. My entire unit is resetting and rebuilding. It will be a slow build-up but a good one since it allows me to really shape the platoon and direct it where I want it to go. My PSG, however, is very good which will make this process even easier. I'll keep you all posted.

Tim and I at the Drive In...

Sprains and Boats

2008-08-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

This last week was our last week of half-days. I should meet my platoon tomorrow and get right to work...whatever that may be. I haven't been too active this week, however, because I sprained my ankle last week playing soccer. I can now walk on it fine, but running will have to wait a little bit longer. In other news, some friends and I spent Friday at American Lake water-skiing and tubing. The first pic is of Charlie and Wes. They live 3 doors down from me. Tim and I are in the next pic. Tim should be moving into Charlie's house sometime in September.

So anyway, being out on the water is always a good time...even if it is chilly. I continue to remember just how lucky I am. My main prayer concerns are just to get healthy and to get to work. The Bible Study is also quickly growing. We're actually having trouble being able to follow up with all the new guys coming out...but I guess that's ultimately a good thing. Did I mention that Washington is awesome?

New Approach...

2008-07-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I've realized recently that a picture can speak a thousand words...so with that said I am going to try to post more pics and videos. This week you'll get to meet some of my friends out here in Washington. This Friday we had a Christmas in July party at my buddies Wes' and Charlie's house (they live 3 houses down the street from me). It was complete with a white elephant gift exchange and a game of "4 to a Couch" (way too complicated to explain in writing). Anyway, this is the guys and I celebrating our victory after the game.

Below are pictures of two of my roommates who are deployed. The first, Isaac, is a helicopter pilot and the second, Eric, is Special Forces. You can pray for both of their safeties.

In other news, my commander is telling me that they are going to make me the new Mortar Platoon Leader. That is, for the most part, good news since it means I'll be a PL right away. Also, the weather has been beautiful this week. Those in Georgia should be extremely jealous.

I Love Washington

2008-07-20T22:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I arrived back home in Washington yesterday, and I was greeted by temps in the 70's and a sun-filled sky. Although these perfect weather days are short lived here, they are some of the best I've ever known. The roommates are all doing well. Saturday night we went to a fair in Olympia (a town South of Ft. Lewis) where I almost lost my lunch on the infamous "Zipper" (just imagine a ferris wheel where the seats flip upside down). It was great just to be around these guys again. The ministry I'm a part of here at Ft. Lewis is also still growing rapidly. There is a huge need for these soldiers to hear about Jesus. I know God is going to be challenging and using me here in the coming months, and I am excited to be back here for that specific purpose. My "Army" job, however, is still not too rewarding. My unit is still on vacation for the most part since they only recently got back from Iraq. I'll keep everyone posted on when that area of life picks up. That's about it I think...did I mention that I love Washington?

First Weekend In GA...

2008-07-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

My plans for Florida this weekend were foiled by nature. It turns out that thunder storms were threatening our Southeastern coast this entire weekend. I didn't feel like driving 4.5 hours to the beach if it wasn't going to be sunny. As a result I am spending my first weekend in GA despite being down here already for over a month. It's giving me some time to hang out with the other LT's down here from 2ID outside of class which is a good thing considering that I'll be working with most of them for the next 3 years. Speaking of class, tests are becoming considerably easier now that we are learning to use the newest computer systems for computing firing data for mortars. The newest systems are literally just beefed up palm pilots with touch screens and Windows software. I can come up with information in about 30 seconds where as it used to take me about 2-3 minutes to do the same thing by hand (with no where near the accuracy).

Anyway, I won't bore you with anymore talk about mortars. I'll be mortar-qualified in less than a week, and then I finally go home to Washington. That's the bottom-line!

4th of July...

2008-07-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I was able to spend the 4th of July weekend with friends and family in Chicago. All my friends from high school (minus 1) were there which has been a rare occurrence in the past few years. Now, however, I am back in Georgia for 2 more weeks of Mortar Leader's Course. We're dealing almost completely with hand held computers which do all the work we had previously learned to do by hand. To say the least, it is much easier. All you do is plug in the data, and then you get the answer. It makes me appreciate technology.

I'm hoping to make it to Florida this weekend and soak up some sun at the beach. We'll see if that actually goes through because I'm already visiting Atlanta on Friday. Anyway, I'm pumped to return to Washington soon so that I can enjoy that beautiful West Coast summer! This Georgia weather is ridiculous...humidity is so high that you sweat if you just stand outside. Laters!

Fort Campbell

2008-06-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Since the Army saw fit to send me 3000 miles away from the home I was just starting to really enjoy, I have decided to make the most of the situation. I've been able to use Fort Benning as a staging point to visit friends throughout the MidWest. Last weekend was Fort Rucker, AL. This weekend is Fort Campbell, KY. Next weekend is Chicago. Anyway, this week was pretty busy. My schedule was wake-up, workout, class until 5, lift, Bible reading, studying, and then bed. I thankfully passed this Friday's test which means that I don't have to go to any of the review sessions this weekend. My trip to KY was pretty good motivation to pass it.

I really do miss my friends out in Washington, but I'm staying busy here. The time definitely goes by quickly. Other than that, I am happy to say that all is going pretty well where I am. Until next time!

Hot, hot, hot!

2008-06-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Georgia probably has the worst weather on earth during the summers...at least for doing training. It would be great for a day at the pool, but the 90 degree days and 90% humidity have been brutal. Luckily, however, we aren't doing much more out in the heat. For the next 4 weeks we'll be in the classroom. This last week was simply learning how to set up, aim, and shoot mortars. On Friday we shot about 300 live rounds at the range. The huge 120 mm mortars were pretty impressive to fire and watch hit their targets. We got to fire the smaller 60 mm mortars by hand too which was really cool. It was like holding a mini artillery piece.

Anyway, right now I'm in Alabama visiting Josh Bell (helicopter pilot) for the weekend. We went to the shooting range today and will hopefully hit up a movie tonight. I look forward to returning to Washington in July, but I'm taking advantage of being able to visit some friends in the South. Bye!

Back To Benning

2008-06-10T21:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

I am finally doing work...kinda. I'm at least reporting to a "job" everyday. There's not much going on, though, and as a result they want to send me back to Fort Benning, GA for a 6 week school. I'm not too excited about it considering that I am exchanging the 6 greatest weeks of weather in WA for the 6 worst weeks of weather in GA. However, it is a good school that will potentially get me a pretty sweet job in the future. Also, I may be able to see some old friends who I just missed by leaving in April. We will see what happens, though, and I haven't even gotten official orders yet.

In other news, life with the roommates is going well. No one has deployed despite the Army giving us several canceled dates. I think we all realize that God is controlling our ultimate fate of placement and deployments. As a result, we sometimes are frustrated, but we remain positive. I'll keep everyone updated. Bye! (The above pic was taken at the movie theater...it was a good time)