Birthday gift!

I just didn't know what to expect on my birthday with Bob being half way around the world.  First I had a nice message on my Facebook page.  Next, I received a phone call.  And finally, these were waiting for me when I got home. I can't tell you how touched I am by his thoughtfulness.  Thanks Bob! You made my day!

Messages from Montana

While we were on vacation in Montana, we had most of the relatives record video messages for Bob.  Here they are.  Hope you enjoy this, Bob!

 

Skype Video Call

Bob called via Skype last night.  It was nice to finally see his face and hear his voice at the same time!  He is still in good spirits and making the best of his time in Afghanistan.  Here is a video of part of our conversation.  Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers for Bob and all of those who have chosen to serve our country.

One down, five to go.

We had a call from Bob on Saturday night (Sunday morning his time.)  He sounded good but not quite as positive as we have heard in the past.  Seems like the days are long for him.  He mentioned that he has only received the first package that I had sent to him.  I guess the mail delivery is pretty spotty at best!  He did mention that he has now been there for over a month and has five more to go.  He actually thought the first month had gone quickly, so hopefully the next five will go just as fast and also be uneventful!  Thanks for keeping him in your prayers! 

Hey Everyone

Well, my mom thought it would be nice if I personally wrote something on this blog.  I just want to let everyone know that I am doing just fine over here.  It certainly is no paradise, but it certainly could be much, much worse.  The days here can get a little long and boring, but I am finding ways to pass the time.  As far as what I am doing out here I am not allowed to say, but in the most general terms we are providing mission support.  I would like to thank everyone for their support and caring.  It means a lot to me and to my family.  I've been here for almost a month now, and to be completely honest it has gone by fairly quickly.  My outlook on the current situation is to remain in the present and get whatever enjoyment out of this I can.  I hope you all are doing well and I will continue to remain in touch while I am out here.  You are all in my prayers.

Bob

Phone Calls!

We had a great weekend!  Bob called twice, first on Friday night and then again on the Fourth of July!  He was using a calling card, $25 for 10 hours of talking.  He thought it was quite a bargain!  He is still working on the Internet connection and hopes that he will be able to Skype with us soon.  He is it great spirits, working long hours, but becoming acclimated to Afghanistan.  One funny story that he told was that he is the mail clerk for his group.  He even had to attend a class to learn how to do this.  When I asked how long it would take him to gather and distribute the mail, he said not long, there are only 4 people in his group! 

Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers for Bob! 

Afghanistan Weather

Here is the weekend weather forecast for Afghanistan.  Surprised to see that it looks better than the forecast for Omaha! 

But according to Bob's Facebook page he is more in a winter frame of mind!!