One Day At A Time

We just have to take it a day at a time. I know Brian is trying to do the same on the other end. We talked to him this past week and he sounds good. I can’t post a lot of the items we talked about but suffice it to say- the marines are ready to call it a day. They have served well. It’s easy to start jumping ahead to the finish-line right about now but Lu and I try to keep pushing ourselves back to “one day at a time.” Sometimes it’s not so easy.

I have to admit, there have been many times throughout this experience that I have wondered where all of this is heading. It didn’t seem like what was being communicated about this war (if anything) fit with what I would see and hear. Many times I honestly haven't known who was leading the effort. While I thought some clarity was provided by President Obama during his West Point Address in December, 2009, our media and politicians quickly ripped any clarity apart. It wasn’t until the Rolling Stone adventure involving General Stanley McCrystal transpired that my inclinations of confusion and frustration became real.

I watched the NBC interview with General Patreaus. I think I learned (at least on a very broad level) more about the goals, the situation, and the strategy of what we’re doing there in that hour than I had learned over the past 7 months. Patreaus manages the media- McCrystal was a victim of it. General Patreaus certainly understands the frustration the country is feeling with a war that has lasted for 9 years. Many Americans have made tremendous sacrifices in the effort along the way. He has not forgotten why the war was started in the first place and what the results would be if we left Afghanistan today. Even though over 60% of Americans are understandably not all that optimistic at this point, he realizes this is not simply an “Afghanistan issue” but an issue of stability for this important region in the Middle East. And, even though the media and politicians continue to focus primarily on the “July, 2011” exit date- he is focused on “doing his job” and leaving the politics to others. He is informed by the context of the politics but “not driven by it.”

Once again, I am feeling a little more encouraged. Finally, I feel there is someone in charge that will take control of both the military and civilian aspects of the mission and make them work together. For all of the soldiers, marines, and loved ones who have already sacrificed so much- it’s about time.

I’m lacking new photos from Afghanistan so am posting a picture of Brian after he graduated from boot camp four years ago- we’ve been through a lot, have learned a ton, and honestly believe we have become better and more engaged Americans as a result. Thanks Bug.





A New Marine
A World of Experience
In Four Years











And, Ethan continues to be a joy for all of us. Lindsey, Jason, and Ethan stopped over last week for a visit. These visits always make the wait to get Brian home a little easier.

Lu And Ethan

Makes It All Worthwhile

We'll certainly keep you posted as we know (and can communicate) specifics and details. Thanks again for your support and prayers.

Semper Fi