My current trip has taken me to the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul in Minnesota. At the start of the trip I realized that I might be close to one of my Navy buddies that lives just across the river in Wisconsin.

Jake and I were really good friends during our time in VFA-94. We pretty much spent the entire 4 years together, got our Plane Captain Quals together and left the Navy pretty much at the same time. He and I both came in the Navy under the apprenticeship program that had us active duty without an MOS (job). While I went to the Corrosion shop, Jake moved to the Maintenance office. We spent a couple long cruises together and have lots of memories.

So I emailed Jake from the Salt Lake airport and told him where I would be and asked if he was close. He called right back and and said he was only 20 minuets away. We arranged to meet up. After a hug and lumps in the throat....it was as if the 11 years since we had seen each other never existed. I me his wife, his 6 year old daughter and his entire family actually. I will take some pictures and post them here in a couple of days.

I am cleaning my room today and I found a large blue folder that I had put away in my closet after I returned from OCS. I want you all to know that I saved every letter, card, note, post-it, picture, and hand-writing sample ever sent to my during my voluntary incarceration at Fort McClellan. This folder contains some of the most precious moments for me. It is safe to say that these, heart-felt correspondences, and connections from home, and family were instrumental in boosting my morale, and giving me the strength to endure until at least the next day. So Thank You!


I have a few favorites among the treasures. Some of them are actually pictures of me from the thrilling days of yester-year. I would have never thought those would have meant so much!


I wanted to make sure that I let everyone know of my appreciation for your hospitality and friendship towards Wil and me during our road trip back home. Grandpa and Grandma Redden were amazing as always with smiles, hugs, and food. It was great to get up and see Aunt Luanne and Uncle Chuck. The atmosphere of their home alows you to just cuddle up with a great conversation or enjoy a laid-back barbecue. I love a good conversation. Everyone was so generous with their time and quick to make Wil feel comfortable, included, and cared for.

The trip for Wil was sorely needed. He had become embroiled in a few things that required a different perspective in order to see how family life could and should be. When you are surrounded by things that are not the norm....you soon lose sight of what the norm really is. He was able to relax and let go of his cares for a few days and it was surely a blessing.


The next posting will follow in a couple of days and I will fill you in on how the job is going.