Sun...Sand...and Soldiers

Leavin' on a jet plane.........Homeward Bound!

2008-10-17T16:22:00.003+03:00

I am able to get on today's R&R flight out of Kuwait. PTL!!! The flight is scheduled to stop in ATL then proceed to DFW. Arrival will be tomorrow, Saturday, around 1300.

Thank you for your prayers.

"For great is His love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the Lord!"
Psalm 117:2
See you soon.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Wait in Kuwait

2008-10-17T04:45:00.002+03:00

Well, great plans don't always fall into place. I am not sure when I will get out of here. There has been a big surg of R&R troops and they take priority over me so I am stranded here. Maybe I can be home by Sunday with slight chance of Saturday.

The good news is the Major and Master Sgt from the Dallas R&R operations are here for meetings and finished early. It was a wonderful surprise to see these great guys. Just a touch of home! That is a sweet ending to this adventure.

God had been so good and my heart is full as I transition home.

I will keep you posted on my departure.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

I will see you all soon!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

I'm Coming Home

2008-10-15T21:30:00.002+03:00

Dear All,

I'm on my way home! Kuwait today and Dallas Friday!

My heart is so full as I come home.

The Major and Master Sgt from the R&R Dallas Operations are here for meetings and have finished early. We will all travel home together. What a special ending to this amazing journey!

See you soon.
In HIS Mighty Grip,
Linda

Bittersweet Goodbyes

2008-10-11T00:34:00.001+03:00

Dear All,

The days are drawing close to departure and the goodbyes get harder and harder. Mixed with the sadness of saying goodbye there is a deep sense of satisfaction that I have completed the job God ask me to do so many months ago. The tears are full of great joy and blessing that this year has forever placed deep in my heart. The year has not been without pain and sorrow and conflict yet I know in time those things that were hard will only prove to strengthen and grow me as God desires.

The United Through Reading program has been the number one highlight of this year. Being so connected to the moms, dads, aunts, uncles and grandparents of our deployed families has etched in my heart memories that will always be cherished. Their tears and emotions touched me deeply and allowed me to see how important this program has been to our military families. From generals to PFC’s love for our children runs deep and strikes cords deep within that rank cannot hide. Your gift of books has made this possible and down the road will be recognized as one of the factors that made a difference in this war.

Tuesday was my last day at the Special Forces compound. The army side surprised me at the end of the day with a special presentation. Many of the moms and dads came and expressed their appreciation for the program. I was given the traditional army certificate and the Special Forces coin. Their love was warm and so meaningful to me. The Air Force side did the same at the end of the day. The Chaplain thanked me and gave me the unit t-shirt and coin then stepped up to his keyboard and sang to me “We love you with the love of the Lord”. With both groups I tearfully thanked me and feebly expressed my appreciation to them. I pray someday that some of our paths cross again.

Today a young Captain came by and handed me a flag that he had had flown for me on 9/11 and had carried with him on a Half marathon he ran that day. I was so taken back and touched and his words of thanks will always be near and dear my heart. Another young man ask for my email so he could keep in touch. I remember him when he came in through Dallas nearly two years ago on emergency leave. His family was there to pick him up as their older son and this young man’s brother had been killed by an IED here in Iraq. When I talk to this soldier shortly after the center opened and remembered who he was I have prayed for him and his family. He is such a sweet young man and I am so glad to have crossed paths with him. Pray for encouragement and strength for this family.

Last and by no means least, I am standing in the need of prayer myself. I went to space block for my flight out of here only to find out my military travel orders expired in June. I have made all the appropriate calls to the USO higher ups and am totally dependent on God’s providential care and intervention to expedite these orders so I can fly out of here the first of next week.

I love you all dearly and your support has meant the world to me. See you next week.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Black Hawk Day

2008-10-02T23:26:00.005+03:00

Dear All,

Last week I got to go on a Black Hawk mission. It was absolutely the most fun! I think I would like to stay another year and be a Black Hawk stewardess. What a cool experience! I mean all the sudden you are just going up in the air and hovering over the earth.

It was an amazing opportunity for me to see outside these wires yet not be in harm’s way. I got to see Baghdad, Taji, Warhorse and several other FOB nearby. It was so cool to see the country. There are actually some very beautiful areas here. Oasis area with huge palm trees! There were also area that were just rubble and yet life goes on with children playing in the streets and men and women out farming their land.

The pilot was a friend and he was on his last mission before going home and he was training his replacement. I got to sit right behind the pilots and wear the headsets. That made it really cool as I could hear all they were saying and hear the training and stories. One stop we made was kind of near and dear my heart…Taji….when John Micah was here on his first deployment his unit poured the concrete that extended the helicopter landing area. I took a picture of my boots on the ground there.

I hope you enjoy some of the pictures I took.
I will see you soon.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Sand Storm

2008-09-30T23:10:00.006+03:00

Dear All,

Busy fun days here for me! Though we have more staff now I am still as busy as ever. I am enjoying every minute of these last days here and trying not to miss a thing.

We had a bizarre sand storm last week. Different from any of the others we have had there was no wind. It was more like snow storm. The sky went from clear to brown to yellow to bright red. It was almost eerie. As you would walk outside you would get sand flakes on your clothes. That morning when I got up it was like footprints in the snow.

1200 Sand Storm outside my room...

1300 Sand storm outside my room

1400 Walking out from bunker.... Teresa and I ran some errands that afternoon and had the opportunity to go down into one of Hussein’s big bunkers that are on base. They are all over everywhere, some of which are used by different units but most left vacant. They are refurbishing this particular one for office space for a new unit coming in. It had it’s own air filtering system that would have made it nuclear war proof. All very interesting! From the outside they look like pyramids and they go down as deep as they are tall. I have always thought it would be cool for the USO to have one for a center. I can just see the whole side of it painted with the USO logo.

I have been packing and mailing stuff home as the day to leave is approaching fast. I am hoping Angela gets back from R&R before I leave. I can’t imagine not getting to say goodbye to her. She has been such a joy.

I love you all and will see you soon.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Going Postal!!!

2008-09-24T10:01:00.002+03:00

Dear All,

I have so much I want to tell you but for right now I will share my heart about my post office experience today. I will write later to tell you about and send pictures of the most incredible sand storm and my Black Hawk ride. As I near the end of my time here, I don’t want to miss a thing and am exhausted but flying high on loving the guys and girls I love so much.

Today was my regular scheduled run to the Post Office to mail UTR. It is probably one of my most laborious tasks that I do. I go with 100+ packages. Each packages content has to be searched and inspected and then sealed up and signed. Once all are inspected we begin the task of weighing and paying. Each custom form has to be stamped on all six pages and then placed in a plastic holder and taped to the package. It is a long process and normally takes at least two hours. I have a standing Wednesday and Saturday morning appointment. They let me come in thirty minutes before they open to try and expedite the process. By the time I am out of there the line behind me is long and as I walk out I keep my head down. No eye contact. THEY ALL HAVE GUNS, YOU KNOW!!!!

Today it hit, as I place each package on the scale to be weighed and processed to go the reality of leaving here hit and the cherished memories of these troops and their families painfully weighed on my heart. Nakeed, Chloe, Jamison, Mia, McQuade, Quentin, Delasia, Sammi, and I could go on forever with the names of the children that these Untied Through Reading packages have been sent to. The stories their dads, moms, aunts and uncles have shared are forever in heart. This has truly been and amazing adventure and leaving is so hard. My heart is torn between being with my precious family and serving here with the troops I have grown to love so deeply. Their faces are forever etched in my heart. Day before yesterday this beautiful Marine, who was stranded here a couple days came in to read to his children. I took him in to get him all set up and as I did I ask how old his children are and he did not respond. I looked up to see this beautiful young Marine, father of five with tears streaming down his face. The only words he could get out were Madam, I just love my family so much.

Another dad yesterday at the SF camp was so excited to share that they were expecting a new baby and he had just found out it will be twins. You always hear about pregnant women glowing, well this young dad was glowing. So Proud!

I must tell you thank you for your support and for supporting this program. The thousands of books you have sent and or money you have sent to USO headquarters in honor of this program is making a huge difference. Our troops and their families are being blessed by you. Never doubt that you don’t have a voice here. I love to tell the troops of all you have done and watch them grin in humility and pride.

I love you and will see you soon.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Pictures

2008-09-15T00:54:00.004+03:00

Dear all,

I thought I would send you a couple pictures. This is not of my hair cut. I don’t have ones of that. This is Angela, myself and Teresa with some of our Navy and Army volunteers. They are wonderful and spend their off time at the center helping us. With out their help we would not and could not be very effective.

We have had one of our worst sand storms today. It was different to any other. The wind was not particularly blowing but the visibility was pretty much nothing. The center is always packed on days like this as so many get stranded here. It was fun and we were able to finally get everyone on the phones and computers.

This is one of our Air Force guys. I found some drawing tablet and colored pencils and he was drawing all sorts of pictures.

I have not told you but we have all new computers. A very special friend from home sent us all new computers and it has been such a huge blessing to us. Our previous ones had so many issues and it made it really hard. There are always Internet issues but prior to now it was a dual issue between the old computers and the Internet provider we have. The troops are so appreciative and our computers stay full from the time we open until closing. I was amazed our Internet worked as well as it did today with the nasty sand storm.

A veteran's group in Florida sent boxes and boxes of drink singles for the troops. It has been wonderful and greatly appreciated by our troops.

For those of you who do not know John Micah is at Fort Stewart in Georgia training and preparing to deploy to Iraq. I will be home in time to go out and see him and be there when he leaves. I can hardly bear the thought of him returning to this country. I stand again in that place of, I don’t know what the future holds but I do know who holds John Micah’s future. We will once again pray our son through this deployment.

I love you all bunches and will see you soon.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Good Days

2008-09-10T23:50:00.004+03:00

Dear All,

The days are passing quickly and life at the center continues to be fun and busy. They love the fresh bread days and cookouts and are so appreciative of all the fun snacks you have provided for them.

This is Angela and I up in the tower the day we went out to take Teddy Bears to the Iraqi children.

Me with Iraqi Girl.

For me it is still all about the troops and connecting with them. I stand amazed at the continued little divine appointments God brings my way with our troops. As I listen to their broken hearts, about their new babies and their hopes and dreams for the future I am challenged to not grow weary as I move towards my departure.

I am probably the only person in Iraq who has spent the summer cold. I am in side 90 percent of the time and I will say the air conditioning works well here. For me going out into the sun feels so good though I can see where if I had to be out in it and in all the gear our troops wear I would be whining all the way. The past three days it has been overcast and we even had rain, not just rain, thunder and lightening. The thunder was so strong and constant that when I woke up I wondered if we were under attack. It was a pleasant surprise to have rain and certainly not expected at this time of the year. It cooled the temperature down which made it very nice. It was so odd the first overcast day with all the humidity; I almost thought I was in Texas. It normally does not get below 100 before the wee hours of the morning, but tonight at 10 pm it is already down to 94 degrees. Nice!!!!

The United Through Reading still remains to be the highlight of my days. It has made such a difference for our troops and I love to hear how meaningful it is to them and their families. One dad told me his two year old daughter did not know him after his first deployment and they had a hard time adjusting when he got home. She is now six and loves the DVD’s of her dad reading to her and to the two old brother during dad’s second deployment. Dad is encouraged that his two year old son will not have the adjustment that his daughter had the first time around. At the beginning of the summer I was so well stocked on books and was bewildered yesterday when I went in the UTR room and realized that I was getting low again.

I love you all and will see you soon,
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

My Military Hair Do

2008-08-22T09:34:00.001+03:00

Dear All,

Life is good here. I got my military hair cut so I am good to go. It was not intentional that I got my military look but I knew when I heard the hair stylists get the buzzers out I was getting a little different do than I had intended. What can I say; it lightens my load, adds minutes to my day in prep time and is certainly cooler.

The Center is busy with troops relaxing, connecting with home and just seeking someone to talk to. We have this beautiful theater where they can watch movies but we find they would rather watch them in the lounge despite the distraction of troops in and out and us calling out names and constant talking. Where there are some who like the quiet get away of the dark theater room most seem to like the interaction of being with everyone. Of course, we are just certain they want to be by us and that is the reason they stay in the lounge. In the lounge I tell them they cannot watch severe violence or blood and guts because I cannot handle it. Only chick flicks……you can imagine how well that goes over. Those of you who know me, know that me and suspense is not a good combination. I think that is why the troops love to sneak the really suspenseful ones in there because they get a kick out of my reaction. I try so hard to let it roll off my back but it just does not happen.

Our volunteer network is rebuilding after our Fort Sill guys left and what amazing young men and women who volunteer their off time to help us out. They work 10, 12, 14 hour days and then still come give us time. We are so appreciative especially since we still do not have the staff that we had anticipated for so many months.

This morning I had a fun experience. We were able to go outside the gate but still inside the safety of the wire to give teddy bears and soccer balls to Iraqi children. There were only a few there but it was fun. We also had lotion for the Iraqi women and some treats to eat for those who wanted them. We will go earlier in the morning next time as many of the children had already left when we got there. It gave me a new appreciation for our troops. It was so unbelievably hot out there with all the IBU gear on. Our troops are there all day in that guarding us. It was fun seeing some of our regular troops that are in and out of the center out there. They were all smiles when they saw us coming. They loved showing us what they do.

We are required to wear reflector belts here at night for safety. I was out with some troops one night and told them I felt a bit like a beauty queen wearing my sash across my shoulder. I told them that instead of them singing “There she is Miss America”, they could sing “There she is Miss Cellaneous”. They all laughed and thought that was funny. Well three days later they showed up and had had embroidered for me a reflector belt that says Miss Cellaneous . What a sweet treasure. Don’t be surprised to see me wearing it out at night when I get home.

I took a day off yesterday and it was nice to relax, sleep in and even go to the pool. The pool was fun. You almost forget where you are. It is the most beautiful pool, big pool I have ever seen. It has all the different high dives and all around the edge of the fourteen foot deep pool is a small ledge that is af about four feet. You can stand there in the water and it is so very nice. When I first got there I had to laugh watching these two army kids, as fast as they could they were doing one legged Indians into the pool and jumping out and doing it again. I am not sure why but they were sure having fun and it thrilled me to pieces watching them. I try to stay to myself there….I mean here are all these darling guys and gals with their cute little tight bodies and here I am fifty plus with my not so tight body. I did talk myself into getting in the water and boy did that feel good.

Well I need to get out the door to the center to get things set up. I love you all dearly and will see you soon. Thank you so very much for all your support and encouragement.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Good Times at the USO Center

2008-08-09T22:49:00.003+03:00

Dear All,

We have had some significant changes here at the USO in Balad and the atmosphere and center are thriving even greater than ever. Our new director arrived last Sunday and already you can see the atmosphere at the center taking on a new feel. I have enjoyed watching our new director enjoy the troops and have a great time with. I know she will bring much to the center and life here.

We have a basket on the counter that says Operation Fresh Breath. It has all sorts of dental hygiene products in it for the troops to take. The soldier in the picture got a bunch of stuff donated for it. Amazing that it was all gone within less than a week. We can't keep enough toothpaste, toothbrushes and dental floss around.

Prior to her arrival a director from Kuwait came in and we had a great time. She opened the door to doing fun programs with the troops that we had not been able to do before. One night last week we did quiz night. We had twenty questions for the troops to answer and the three with the most answers right got prizes. We had pizza afterwards. Another night we took 25 pizzas over to the pool for the troops. We had our logo Frisbees to give out. Friday night we played BINGO in the center and that was a big hit. We had all sorts of fun giveaways for the winners. Saturday night we had a cook out and volunteer appreciation night for all those who have helped us so much. A unit from Fort Sill left out this week to go home for good and five or six of them had volunteered over 600 hours. They had become very special to us and it was hard to see them go. Wonderful knowing they are home with their families. I have heard from a couple of them and they sound great.

I had another all day United Through Reading at another part of the base and recorded 64 UTR’s. I always enjoy those days. We have had a record month recording 601 DVD’s. That represents around 1400 children that will have smiles on their faces because they got to see their mom or dad on DVD and have a story read to them. I am having a few issues with my cameras so we will soon begin to replace them one at a time. As of today we have filmed 3042 UTR’s since we have been here. The cameras have served us well but possibly could be getting a little tired.

The director from Kuwait was a great encouragement and has given us so many ideas of things we can do in the center with the troops that we did not know we could do. Angela got back from R&R and it is great to have her back and to hear all about her trip. She is such a sweetheart. There is nothing like working shoulder to shoulder in a war zone to knit two people together.

KLIF in Dallas, Texas did a snack drive for us and we have been receiving boxes of snacks. That has been so wonderful to have good stuff and different stuff out for the troops. They eat it as fast as we can put it out. I think it is more that they are in a home like environment that gives them the munchies. Thank you so much Dallas, Texas for your generosity. You are such an encouragement to out troops.

Well I am off to bed. I stay pretty tired as we still work very long hours. I have to work at getting myself to bed so I don’t wear myself out. I love you all and thank you so much for your support.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

The Temperture is Rising!

2008-07-24T07:33:00.002+03:00

Dear All,

The time has flown and I extend by deep apologies for my lack of communicating. The past weeks have been my hardest and busiest so far. Loneliness and fatigue hit hard bringing my greatest discouragement. There was even a point that I wanted to throw in the towel and come home but a short conversation with a young soldier brought new strength and conviction. He was greatly discouraged and rightfully so after missing the birth of his first child and the death of his grandfather. He did not have the option of even thinking about throwing in the towel. I knew after talking to him I had to toughen up and focus on moving forward and not on the issues that were weighing me down.

The temperature continues to rise. During the day it is getting up around 112 - 116 degrees. When I turned off my lights last night to go to bed at 2300 it was down to 102 degrees. I have to say that I can not complain as I am inside the center 90% of the time so the little I go out the sun and heat feels wonderful. If I was out in it long and certainly if I was working out in it I would be whining all the way. It is just like I had always heard...it feels like someone is pointing a big hot hot blow dryer at you.

The center continues to thrive and part of what makes it so special is the support it has received from so many of you. Your snacks, children’s books and even prayer squares have been a huge help and greatly appreciated. We have just gone through a rotation change so the faces have changed and we had to say goodbye to many that were regulars in the center. It is always sad to say goodbye but always a thrill knowing they are going home to their families.

We have a great group of volunteers right now that are there every day all day long helping. They leave here for good in just a few days. They have already passed their responsibilities on to their replacements and are just waiting to leave. The timing could not be more perfect as both of my co workers are on R&R. Two directors from Kuwait came and that has been nice. One has returned to Kuwait and the other is still here. She has been a delight and given me all sorts of new ideas of things we can be doing in the center. That has been so fun and I look forward to continuing these fun interactive activities.

The United Through Reading Program continues to be my joy. We filmed 548 last month and will come close this month also. Due to our staff being gone I have had to cancel several of the remote UTR days that I do. That makes me sad as I know how these particular troops appreciate and depend on that time. The books have continued to arrive and I smile through and through when the troops walk in the UTR room and go WOW look at all the books. Your faces come to mind and I always tell them about you and your love for them. A couple of weeks ago a young soldier came in and asks if we had any way he could record a message to his grandmother. He shared that he had just received word that Hospice had come in and her days were few. We were thrilled to set him up in the UTR to record. He was able to tell his grandmother how special she was in his life and say his goodbyes. The blessing is she did receive it and get to see it before she stepped into glory. It was such a help to this young man to be able to do this.

One of our Air Force dads told us his little girl was so excited about her DVD she took it to school and showed her class and took it to Sunday school and to gymnastics and to her ballet class. She was proud to show it to everyone. Another Military mom told me that her daughter hugs the TV when her mom reads to her. She now hugs the TV every time she passes it and say “I love you, Mommy”. Thanks to all of you this program thrives.

Thank you all for being so patient with me as I move through this incredible journey. The joy of being here with and for these troops blesses me over and over again. The personal hurdles I have faced in recent weeks are nothing when compared to the joys deep in my heart from serving here in this place.

I love you all dearly and am so grateful for your support.
Strong in His Mighty Grip,
Linda

I Fly Away

2008-06-09T01:34:00.005+03:00

Dear All,

We are experiencing bad sand storms here. You would not believe the inside of our car. When I get in it to go somewhere I have to turn on the windshield wipers to clean the sand on the wind shield so I can see out. It is nasty!

I was up and off to church this morning before going into the center. Our music tends to be the more contemporary worship songs and it is lead by a very humble young man. The worship team consists of troops from the Army, Navy and Air Force. They do a good job of leading the worship time. We had sung a couple of contemporary songs and then he went right into the old hymn I'll Fly Away. I grinned from ear to ear as it took me back many years to Irving Bible Church on Finley Road. I remember well one Sunday probably in the late 70's the choir was singing I'll Fly Away and a dear friend Rick Knight was in the choir that Sunday and was truly enjoying and worshiping as he sang and the memory of him was forever etched in my heart that day. When I think of him I always go back to that place. It was fun to stand there this morning a half a world away from Finley Street and remember such a sweet memory. Rick Knight you blessed my heart today.

The center has been unusually quiet and slow the past couple of days. The main thing the troops want is the Internet to instant message with their families or phones to call home. There is almost always waiting lines for those. Our snacks are pretty slim picking these days. We are grateful for all the Girl Scout Cookies that have come our way. If we did not have those some days there would not be hardly anything. The PX runs out of stuff so quickly and they limit us to buying only two of many items. Chips and things like that! I know I opened at least fifteen boxes of Girl Scout cookies today and I believe Angela did at least that many herself. It does not matter what we put out they eat it.

We had a USO tour come through today also. It was Operation Hoop Talk! Basketball coaches from several colleges. They walked through the center and visited with the troops and sign pictures for them. It is always fun to have surprises like that for the troops. They were supposed to be in Baghdad but the dust storm kept them in Balad. Fortunate for us!

Well I just wanted to say Hi. I am trying to write more frequently and give you more of the daily flavor of life in Iraq. Pray the sand storms go away. Sand Storms also mean mortar attacks so we need the sand to just stop blowing.

I love you all dearly and thank you for your support.

A Big Happy Birthday to my Johnny. You're the best!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Return To Balad

2008-06-07T23:23:00.002+03:00

Dear All,

I am sure you are wondering if I fell off the face of the earth or maybe did not return from R&R. None of the above, it has just been busy and I am just now getting into the swing of things and my routine back. R&R was wonderful. Nothing tops being with Johnny and our children!

I was so grateful for the opportunity to ride home on the R&R flight with all the military troops. I always knew it was a long grueling trip but now I KNOW it is a long grueling trip. For me it took four days to make it from where I am in Iraq to Dallas. I was fortunate that I had no issues getting home. No sand storms or delays or canceled flights as many of our troops experience. My trip could not have gone smoother but even still it was long and exhausting. The hurry up and wait certainly takes on a whole new perspective. Hours it took! It is a very smooth operation but when you are moving that many troops it just takes time to do it and do it safely. I literally had to dump my whole suitcase so customs could go through it and then repack. Nothing went unnoticed! Once through customs we were secluded until boarding buses to go to catch our flight. Prior to the time we went through this process the place that we were secluded, I had thought was a prison on the base. Now I know….it is the holding place for all R&R troops. Sure like a prison to me from the outside.

I met many great troops along the way. I had a darling Marine colonel as our commander for the flight. I am sure he would grin to hear me say that. He was headed to the west coast to his wife and two darling little girls. I was one of three civilians on the flight. Every seat was taken so we were packed in like sardines. Once leaving Kuwait we made one stop before arriving in Atlanta. Flight time around sixteen hours! There were cheers as we landed on American soil. Those of us going on to the next leg of the flight to Dallas never left the secure area. It was sad as there was no one there to cheer and tell these battle weary guys thanks. Maybe it happens when they leave the secure area but certainly not where we were. The flight from Atlanta to Dallas got a little livelier as troops recognized they were almost there. The cheers were even greater when we landed in Dallas. Dallas you make me proud the way you greet our troops. I walked off the plane and into Johnny’s arms and boy did that feel good. It was wonderful to walk out to the cheers of so many and see my mom and daughter and uncle and so many friends.

The next morning I spent two hours walking through Wal Mart. Who would ever think Wal Mart could be so fascinating. It was amazing seeing everything you need right there together. Next I ventured into Sam’s and Home Depot. Oh to have had these stores close when we were trying to do all the renovation on the center. I just kept walking through my house and loving it. It was beautiful and clean and HOME. John Micah drove in from Lubbock and Amy flew in from California. It was so good to see them. On Saturday Johnny had arranged for Amy, Alyson and I to go to this very nice exclusive spa for a day of pampering. We had massages, body scrubs, facials, manicures and pedicures and the works. What a wonderful day of pampering and even better that I got to share it with my girls. When we got home Johnny had everything all set up for all our family to come over for dinner. He catered the dinner from Babe’s! Yummy! I did not lift a finger! It was wonderful seeing everyone and visiting and just being together in my home.

The rest of my time at home was spent visiting with family and friends and just taking it easy. I was able to be a part of the Defenders of Freedom Annual Golf outing and that was fun for me. The days flew by and leaving was tough. Somehow it does not get easier saying goodbye.

It is so strange because as hard as it was to leave it was good to be back and doing what I feel called to do right now. The trip back was as grueling as the one going over but with a more somber atmosphere. I spent another night in the transient housing in Kuwait and then spent the next day sitting at the terminal waiting on a flight. We sat on a C17 for an hour or so before they canceled that flight and back to the terminal to wait. I finally got back to Balad a bit sleep depraved but ready to get back in the swing of things.

It was good to see so many of you while I was home. You are all so special and your support means everything to me.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Starting Home for R&R!

2008-05-05T20:36:00.004+03:00

Dear All,

I’m on my way. I had no issues getting on a flight out of Balad and it looks like everything is a go to be home as planned. I am very excited about flying on the R&R flight with the troops. After meeting that flight for so many years at DFW it will be fun to see the whole process. Here in Kuwait I am staying in transient housing just like the troops and going through this process just as they do.

My last day in Bald before leaving on R&R was bitter sweet. My Col friend who flew into Iraq with Angela and I back in September left out for good. He has become such a dear friend and has been such an encouragement to me these past eight months. I am thrilled for him that he will be home with his family but will greatly miss him. While seeing him off I saw several other of my SF buddies and said goodbye to them also.

That night two of my UTR dad’s who are doctors at the hospital invited me to dinner. They are precious young things who have seen more in the four months they have been here then most in a life time. They will leave out for good while I am home so this would be our farewells also. What a treasured evening! They were my singing dad’s who sang children’s Bible songs on their UTR recordings and often prayed. They were a blessing from beginning to end. They brought me a gift that will be forever cherished. It was a framed picture of the three of us at the Toby Keith concert and also their ER coin.

I am laying here on my bunk in transient housing and enjoying having time to reflect over these past eight months in Iraq. There have been so many adventures and life experiences that have impacted me greatly but none more precious than the relationships of so many troops that will always be remember. My dear Angela who has experienced this adventure with me since day one, is a joy and a bright spot as I watch her serve and take care of our troops. Her boundless energy amazes me and her brilliant mind astounds me. She always goes above and beyond!

I love my United Through Reading days out at the SF compound and at the hospital. I cherish that time interacting with our troops, often hearing their life stories, heartaches and joys. I hold dear my times with them. I will never stop thanking all of you who have supported this mission and supplied the books. I don’t think we will ever really see how far reaching this program is in connecting our troops to home and family.

Being away from my family has been the hardest thing I have ever done. Johnny Robinson has been my hero, always supporting me and lifting me in prayer. He has also become quite the poet. Often he writes me poems that are so precious. They are about the things I am doing or he is doing and they are such an encouragement. There have been ones about the UTR program and the children that impacts and even one about my grand puppy, Stella. Many mornings I have woken up to a hymn that he has written out for me or scripture that was on his mind. Those things always came right when I needed them most and carried me and sustained me through my day. He has been my rock on the hard days and held me up and wiped my tears from half way around the world. I am one blessed women to have a man like that in my life.

I love you all so dearly and without your support I could have never made it this far. You have all been wonderful. Your care packages shout in my ear how loved I am. I am not sure if I told you that the postal people know me and say I get more mail than anyone here on base. I am so proud of my mom and her support. She has been strong and I am so thankful for her encouragement. My mother-in-law or should I say my mother-in-love has been a huge advocate of the UTR program and has her teacher sorority sending books like crazy.

Amy, Alyson and John Micah are my pride and joy and I am so grateful for them keeping Johnny busy and taken care of.

I will see you soon.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Fun Times!

2008-05-02T12:33:00.006+03:00

Dear All,

We had two days last week of dust storms. It was nasty! Though it was blowing, you really could not feel the sand as it is so much like talcum powder. At the very most the visibility was a quarter of a mile. My head pounded and I coughed horribly all day from all the dust. The center seemed to be inches deep in dust. Seems useless sometimes to dust but we do it anyway lest we lose control.

One thing that happens during dust storms are mortar attacks. The air support cannot get out do surveillance and the insurgents know that so they make their presence known in a big way. Before the day was over we had had many sirens and alerts. One did injure a soldier but I understand he is doing fine. So much to learn and understand! Mom, I am very careful and do exactly what I am supposed to and I am also in a hard structure so I am really safe.

I am hoping that when I go to post this I will be able to put pictures with it. You just never know here if the internet is going to cooperate or not. This picture is a five pound chocolate bar that Johnny sent. He had contacted the Hershey Company and they also sent a case of chocolate Kissables.

Well it has been a week since I started this and so much has gone on that I want to tell you. Hopefully I can stay awake long enough to finish this. We have had several more days of dust storms since the one mentioned above. It’s that time of year so you just deal with it. You never really feel clean. Once you shower you still have to walk back to your room. It is just kind of nasty. Everyone walks around outside with something around their face where all that is exposed is their eyes. It is really kind of scary looking. I understand that this will remain with us until probably mid June. Now that excites me.

Guess who came to town? TOBY KEITH…. Those of you who know me, know how much I love Toby Keith music. His concert was supposed to be Sunday night but he got stranded at another FOB because of the sand storm. His band made it in but he did not. They brought the band by the center to visit and they were so fun. We decided to pull off a cook out for them so they came back over and spent the evening with us. We had ten of our volunteers and probably fifteen band members and stage hands. We were able to get steaks, hamburgers and the dogs from the PX and then we all went over to the DFAC and got to go boxes with all the side dishes. The evening went well and we all had fun. I found out that one of the band members use to live just a few blocks from me in Coppell and another lives in Valley Ranch right by me. They were fun and down to earth and I enjoyed watching them interact with the troops. The hope was to get Toby in the next day and have the concert then.

They had planned to bring Toby by the center for a tour on Sunday but it did not look like that would happen for us on Monday. Late in the afternoon we got a call saying they were bringing him by in an hour. Forty-five minutes later the USO WHQ representative comes running in saying he was there can you give him a tour. You can imagine I was happy to oblige. He was quiet and not real personable but I am sure it was that he was shy being with me. It was fun going from room to room and watching the troops be surprised when they saw Toby.

The concert was wonderful. You know me I got emotional watching the troops have so much fun. HE sang all my favorites. After the concert I had a few things to do at the center to clean up and close up. One of our regular volunteers who will be leaving next week stayed to help. We decided to take these USO “Mortaritaville” Frisbees over to the band members. Long story short, Toby Keith was sitting out front and me and this soldier sat and visited for almost an hour. Toby was hungry so we ran down to Burger King and got him something to eat. It was pretty awesome. He was very nice and signed some things for us to have to give to troops and even gave this soldier his Toby Keith coin. When we got in the car I told the soldier I was with that I felt rather silly. Here I am a 54 year old women giddy excited that I got to see and talk to Toby Keith. Oh Well! I just have such respect for him because he values and honors our troops so much! That is big in my book!

I start home for R&R soon. I am thrilled. I hope arrive the 7th. It will be so good to see my family and friends and all those who have so graciously and generously supported me and the mission here. You are all the best.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Pictures

2008-04-22T07:45:00.005+03:00

Connecting Through Crafts

John Micah's friend

Finally we are getting my computer working. Wanted you to enjoy these pictures. Now that it works there will be more to follow.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Bitter Sweet Week!

2008-04-17T13:31:00.003+03:00

Dear All,

I am going in a little late today so I thought I would write to you before leaving. I was up early and out to where we rented our car to have the oil changed. While I was there we had a Code Red so I got to take cover there and wait for a little bit. One new worker from Nepal, when he heard the sirens took off running and dove into a connex that was close. I think he was a bit embarrassed when he realize that though we took cover the urgency was not quite as he thought. I won’t say time has made me or most complacent but by the time the siren goes off, whatever was coming, has already come. His buddies harassed him a bit but I patted him on the shoulder and told him it was okay. Better to do that than nothing! I remember my first and it does kind of rattle you some. Once the car was finished I took it for its monthly inspection. You have to have the car inspected monthly and the paper work you get is what allows you to get gasoline.

I went from there to do my laundry and it was wonderful because I walked in and there were three washers right there in a row. No waiting! Unheard of! I caught up on some computer In Kind stuff while I waited. By the way, I was picking up our mail the other day and one of the postal workers announced my arrival as I walked through the door. I was a little taken back and ask why , and he told me they all wanted to know who Linda Robinson was, the lady that gets more mail than any one on base. I grinned from ear to ear and in my head I saw each one of you. You have been amazing to provide and support this mission. I loved telling the workers there that it was a very support community of God’s people who wanted to do all they could for our troops to encourage and support them. You all got a hats off from all the postal workers. Thank you, thank you!

It has been a hard week in some ways. John Micah’s best friend , Blake, who I call my other boy, had a good friend from his old unit killed last week here. The young man had been in our home and it sadden me greatly to hear of his death. Army Sergeant Smith served his country well. I have thought so much about his family as they grieve and pray that God will encourage them and give them hope. I went down to the hospital to see if he had come through our hospital just because I knew that if he did he was honored and loving cared for as I see over and over down there. He had not come here. Tuesday out at the SF compound while I was doing the Untied Through Reading in the Chaplains office a young man came in looking for a book to read. I was the only one there at the time so we had a great visit. He is an Army medic and had spent the past month in the ER trauma ward in Baghdad doing some training. He had story after story and I found his strength and compassion for troops remarkable. Towards the end of the conversation I told about Blake’s friend. He knew exactly who I was speaking of and was one of the attending medics there that try everything to save this young man life. It meant so much to me that such a caring individual was there doing all that he could for Tim. I will probably never meet or know Tim’s family but if I ever get the chance I would love to reassure them that Tim was not alone when he died and that those around him were some of the most caring soul’s I have ever met. I came home that night feeling so blessed that God gave me that little gift of getting to meet one of America’s finest Army medics.

I had a very fun blessing this week also. One of John Micah’s friends who was based here came by the center and I got to spend the evening getting to know him. What a sharp young man. He had pictures of John Micah from when he was home on R&R and it just meant so much to get to be with him. Here is a picture of us together. Don’t be fooled that is near beer in my hand. We had a cook out that night at the center and they had near beer. Mom, near beer is non alcoholic! Tom wanted a picture drinking a beer with Rob’s mom in Iraq. Rob is what they call John Micah. He had some fun stories about John Micah and I love hearing him talk about my baby boy. I am thrilled for him as he has finished his time here and is on his way home.

It is now getting up in the 100's during the day, though today has cooled off and we are having quite the sand storm. I am not sure what the visbility is but it is bad out there. I am hacking and coughing.

Well I have got to get down to the center. I just wanted to say hi and tell you how special you are and how much I appreciate your support of me and our troops.

Well once again I can not get the pictures to upload. I will add them later. The joys of internet in Iraq. Nor will it allow me to spell check. I apologize for any glaring spelling arrows. I need Karen or Kathie to edit....

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Trying To Catch Up!

2008-04-12T17:02:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I think we will hit our first 100 degree day. Day before yesterday the air changed and that nice crispness that was there vanished and you could feel the heat settling in. Though there is a breeze it is like a warm blow dryer coming at you. It does help though having the air circulate. I can’t imagine what it will be like come July. I’ll be sure to share. Well I started this blog two weeks and am just now getting to finish. The weather though warm has not been bad at all. Mild temperatures with somewhat cool nights and mornings!

What makes the days so fun are the troops that come in the center. Though we have many regulars we also get many that are just passing through Balad and find us. I can’t wait to get you a picture as we had another set of brothers come in the other night. Two darling young men and their third brother will arrive here soon. I understand that they were featured on one of your night news shows here recently. I just think of their mother and father. I will send her pictures every time I can get them together.

We got another order of 550 cord in yesterday so the Connecting Through Crafts is back running full swing. I think it is so fun to see the troops have fun doing that kind of stuff. It is one of those relaxing things that they can do and then send home or have for themselves. They are pretty funny about it. Well since I wrote last they have used all the 550 cord. We can’t believe it. We had probably 15 different colors and 500ft of each. They love making the bracelets and key chains. Time to reorder!

I am not sure I have ever told you about the OPSEC training I had some months ago. It is an important issue that all here has to know and follow. OPSEC stands for Operation Security! It is unfathomable to me that there would or could be those out their/terrorist that would go through trash or tap in to phone lines or emails or anything to gain information to try and use against our troops or civilians that are deployed. I am careful to never mention specifics of when we travel. Though it becomes public information quickly that we have mortar attacks here, hence the name “Mortaritaville” I am not to say where any of those may have hit at least not unless it has become public through media. Every package you send me I cut the labels off and the labels are shredded or burned. When I am on the phone I can’t share times and dates of specific events or dignitaries that are coming! All these things if not done properly could put others in harm’s way. This has all been new to me as I have lived a pretty sheltered life and in a very sheltered environment. Exact dates, times, locations are all romper room no no’s to share.
Week before last I went to another special part of this compound and spent the day filming United Through reading. What a thrill. I filmed 61 that day. That represents 105 children. Isn’t that cool? This group of troops rarely has the opportunity for special things so it was so nice to be able to provide it for them. They were so appreciative and being a first for most, it was a day to dry tears and encourage them they could make it through. One young man was so nervous and he finally said that this would be the first time his two year old son got to see him. Hard to believe and who knows why but how wonderful to think this little program had a part in introducing a father and son. I also had another new baby this week. One of my Dr. at the hospital had his third. A baby boy! I just turned in my March reports and we filmed 548 United Through Readings in the month of March. To the best of my calculations we have filmed, and by we I mean all you who have supported this, 1357. Imagine that! That is well over 2500 happy children who were recipients of your support and generosity.

I can’t remember if I mentioned in my blog but my friend Laurie did a chocolate candy drive and we received over four hundred pounds of chocolate. Thank you DynCorp and the Southern Cruisers! The troops have loved it and believe it or not, they have just about gone through it all. They open the fridge and you can hear them say Wow! Chocolate!

The center continues to get busier and busier. We have had many troops volunteer their time and we are trying to put together a schedule so we have the help we need in the center. Our Air Force units are only here for three/four month rotations and so every time we get them trained up they leave. The group that did so much to get our center up and running just left this week and it was another round of sad goodbyes. We have another new addition to our center. They built a deck on the side just outside our lounge. We had our inaugural cook out this past Sunday and the troops had a great time grilling, making guacamole and drinking near beer. The music was cranked up and the night full of laughter.

I need to close. I apologize that I can’t seem to write more often. My ninety to hundred hour weeks, though exciting and great and full of the very thing I love doing, supporting our troops does leave me at the end of the day pretty beat. Thank you for all the books you have sent.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

The Smell of Bread Baking

2008-03-25T01:33:00.003+03:00

Dear All,

The days go by so fast and most of the time I don’t even know what day of the week it is. I just realized it has been well over three weeks since I last wrote you. The center gets busier and busier as more and more troops find us and come.

Just before I went on R&R I was at the laundry mat and a soldier was making those macramé bracelets that are made out of 550 cord or parachute cord. He showed me how to make them so I picked up some 550 cord on R&R. Once we were open and running I one day got it out and started to make one and immediately I had several troops around wanting to make some. It was so fun and since we have done and taught them how to do hundreds of them. We have now ordered our third round of 550 cord. We haven’t decided what to call it but it is a toss up between Connecting Through Crafts or Relating Through Rip Cord. They love doing it and have made them for their wife, children and self. They do bracelets and key chains. I hope you enjoy the picture of them. They are all so cute and I enjoy teaching them how to do it.

We had a distinguished visitor last week. Vice President Dick Chaney. He spoke to the troops at the stadium. Talk about the security measures. He was quite protected. I did not get to go see him as this is my United Through Reading day on the other side of base and it is a one of my weekly highlights.

The smell of fresh bread brings home to the troops. My friend Laurie sent a bread maker to us via a soldier who was home on R&R. We opened it that day and baked three loaves. The troops loved it. Can you imagine what they felt when they walked in the lounge to the smell of bread cooking. Laurie sent twelve boxes of bread mix and four days later we had devoured it. We had troops set their alarms so they would be back when the bread was ready. Thank you Laurie for the bread machine! It has been quite the hit.

I was talking to Johnny and the other night and he ask me how many UTR’s we had done since we arrived. I went back into my records and if my recorded are right we have done close to 1100 recordings for the United Through Reading program. Isn’t that cool! That represents over 2200 children whose mother, father, aunt, uncle or grandparent has read a story to their special little one. That’s a lot of books that have been mailed home and brought so much joy to our deployed troops families. For many it is their life line to their child. Not all our troops have supportive families at home cheering them on so for some here being able to send these readings home is God tool to breath love into their children. I have talked too many who these little DVD’s is the only connection they have with their children.

Easter was a bit quiet. I went to my little church and was blessed by the fellowship with God’s people. We had stuff Easter Eggs for the troops and Chocolate bunnies. Some of the eggs had prizes so that was fun.

I again face another rotation of troops finishing their three months here and headed for home. It is so hard to say goodbye to the many that have been such an important part of our USO heritage here. I have been so blessed by so many and I realize that for the most part I will likely never see them again this side of glory. A sobering reality.

I am going to close. I keep falling asleep trying to write. The alarm goes off early and my normal weeks are averaging around 90 plus hours.

I love you all dearly. Your books have been such a blessing and the chocolate that Dyna Corp and my biker buddies from meet and greet in Dallas collected has been a huge hit. I love to tell them about you and how much you appreciate them and the sacrifices they are making. They are so taken back when they realize they are so loved.

Resting In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Taking It Easy In The Lounge!

2008-03-05T22:59:00.004+03:00

I thought you all would enjoy this picture of some of our troops taking it easy in the lounge.

Here are the troops watching and listening to the children read to them via web cam.

United Through Reading

2008-03-04T23:42:00.002+03:00

Dear All,

It is Tuesday and United Through Reading at the SF compound. Today I had many new airmen on the Air Force side. The Air Force does four month rotations so I am now on my third rotation. The enthusiasm for this program is huge. Being their first week in country many are homesick and sitting down to record a book to their children proves to be quite an emotional event. Several needed to just sit and talk a minute to regain their composure before beginning. I remember well my first week here and how hard it was and my children are grown so I can’t imagine the emotions of leaving school age children and infants. What an amazing group men and women serve our country.

One of my dads who has participated regularly during his time here came in today and could not say thank you enough for this program. His son was only six or seven months old when he deployed and next month he will have his first birthday. He said…… my son knows me, he really does know me. He had talked to his wife the day before and she told him that when she put the DVD of him reading to the son he crawled to the TV and said over and over, dada, dada! That was one very happy daddy! This program truly connects families and gives them a way to remain involved in their children’s lives. I sat here this evening as another dad was reading and he was having so much fun and was so expressive and it just brought tears thinking of this little boy and little girl getting to see this. I am so blessed to be a part of this.

The center remains busy and growing. We have had many of our troops volunteer their time to help us. We are doing an orientation soon and will get them all slotted to help. Last night we had fun at the center. It was Dr Seuss’s birthday and in the states it was read across America in many elementary schools. A first grade class in Pennsylvania had arranged to web cam with us and their first grade class was going to read a Dr. Seuss book to the troops. They were darling. We had about fifteen soldiers and even a marine around the web cam to watch and wave and clap and cheer them on. There was not a dry eye in the room when the children sang Lee Greenwood's “Proud to be an American” and then at the end they sang God Bless a America and all our troops in the room joined in. This was one event that I had many crying with me. I used one of our cameras and made a DVD of the troops watching the children and then had them say hello and greet the children. We will send that to them. Fun, fun stuff! For me just watching the troops smile and laugh and enjoy themselves makes any effort made so worthwhile.

I just had to share my UTR stories. Thank you so much for your support. Thank you for the books you are sending. Believe me they are so appreciated and are making a difference.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Blessing Upon Blessing

2008-03-02T21:16:00.002+03:00

Dear All,

The days are busy and full. Each new day brings more and more troops into the center. They love the games rooms and spend hours in there. The UTR at the center continues to increase also.

I enjoy my one day a week at the Special Forces Compound doing the United Through Reading program. They are all so appreciative and enjoy so much reading to their children. One dad told me that he looked forward to the time so much and it had helped get him through this deployment. I had one young soldier read a book to his two nieces this week there and he was so cute. I could hear him in there just a cutting up and having fun reading to them and talking. Don’t you know those little girls will be tickled to get a DVD from their uncle? I wish I could remember what he said they call him, it was so cute. I record in two different areas of the SF camp. One in the morning and the other in the afternoon! Both in the Chaplains office area and Chapel. They are very gracious and it has been so fun to get to know them. The Chaplains Assistant on the second side was leaving this week and so that meant another goodbye. She has been so sweet and I have enjoyed my time with her. She calls me Mama. That evening I was filing along and the Chaplains, from the front side and some others come over to where I was. I figured the were there to say goodbye to the assistant that was leaving. We were just visiting and enjoying the time when all the sudden they ask me to come up. They presented me with a certificate and a flag that had been flown on a combat mission over Iraq. I was so honored and touched but the sweetest thing of all was the inscription on the certificate. It was to Linda Robinson “Our USO Angel”. It will be a treasured memento from my time here along with the memories of spending time with so many dear airmen and soldiers.

We also had another first and treasured event at the center. A young airmen came by a week or so ago and ask if we had any place that was private that he could web cam with his wife because she was due to deliver their second baby. The hospital had agreed to allow them to have a web cam there for the delivery. The airmen had been all over base trying to find a place where he could go when the day arrived. We let him know we would do whatever we could to help him out. He runs in the other night and says she is in labor. We go to work and get him set up back in our office. We were having trouble getting my laptop to download and by the grace of God our Internet guy was there and he hooked him up to another computer the was in our office. In order to do that we had to close down our computer lab which we hated but this was one of those special events in life that took priority and was not to be missed. It was fun watching him talk to her and coach her through. In Iraq fashion right towards the end our Internet went out and we were doing everything we knew to do to get it up and running. Finally we talked to the special unit that share the other wing of our building and they hit the ground running and had our new dad hooked up within minutes. 2:45 a.m. a beautiful baby boy was born. Daddy was proud and mom was grateful he had been by her side though the miles were many.

Today is John Micah’s birthday. Being so far away on special day’s brings a certain sadness and an awareness of how far away I am from those I love. I talked to him on the phone and it was great to know he was with his sister and girlfriend and having a wonderful time together. I am very proud of him. For those of you who have not heard he has been redeployed and will return to Iraq around the end of the summer. He is an amazing young man, proud to serve his country.

I must get myself to bed. I love you all dearly and thank you over and over for your support and encouragement.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Pressing On

2008-02-22T12:24:00.005+03:00

Dear All,

The days are busy now that the center is open. Troops in and out and playing games, talking on the phone, watching movies, hanging out in the lounge and filming United Through Reading. There is always someone to talk to and needs to be met.

The game rooms are the biggest hit. There is one that has eight Xboxes in an octagon shape that are all interconnected where they can play each other. Each system can play two players so you can have sixteen at one time in there playing. You can only imagine the laughter or should I say hoopin and hollerin going on in there. The troops run over on their lunch hour and come after their shift and play until we close.

The other game room has the Wii games which are much more interactive. You can bowl, or play tennis or Dance, Dance Revolution and many others. They get to going on those and even work up a sweat. There are also Xboxes in that room in the corners and they get to jamming with the guitar hero.

Of course there are always troops on the phones and in the evenings there is a wait to get a phone. We have to limit the calls to thirty minutes and having to tell them to hang up is one of my hardest tasks.

We are able to film the United Through reading all during our open hours and boy is that a hit. I particularly like the fact that since Balad is in such a large Air Base we get many troops that are passing through on their way to other FOB’s. They will not have the opportunity to participate in the UTR program where they are going so it thrills me that we can film while they are there. One young father who got strand in Balad for several days filmed three and we are going to mail them at month intervals. His wife and little baby were staying in Dallas while he is deployed and it was fun to talk about the things we love and miss from the Big D.

I mailed last Saturday 84 UTR’s and again today mailed another 81. I am in good shape on mini DVD’s but am beginning to get pretty low on books. We allow them to pick a book for each child so you think about 81 recording that could be as many as 160 or more books we are sending out. I feel great joy when I get them mailed knowing how many of God’s precious children will soon get to see their mom or dad or grandparent on TV. I get to hear story after story of how their children respond. The smaller children just talk away to the TV as though they were there and the older ones are a bit more emotional seeing their loved one. I have one dad at the hospital that every time he gets to read a book he always ends up singing praise and worship songs to his children and I always he him end the tape praying for them. Can you imagine the blessing those children are receiving to hear their father pray for them and what a joy for them to have for the rest of their life. One dad brought his guitar and instead of reading books to his children played and sang songs he had written for them.

I think I am the one that is the most blessed. Hearing their stories, seeing the joy they receive from getting to record these connections of love, putting the children’s pictures on my bulletin board and receiving thank you emails from their families at home makes any effort expended so worthwhile.

I am not sure I have ever told you about the post office. When you go to the post office here you are not allowed to seal your packages. They inspect the contents and then seal them. You would think the postal workers would dread to see me coming with 80+ packages a couple times a week but it is quite the contrary. I have had many of them that work in the post office come over and record books for their children and grandchildren so they have become some of my strongest advocates. They are some of my sweetest friends here.

The troops appreciate so much when we have snacks for them. Having a variety is hard as the PX though good for a PX doesn’t have a lot to pick from. We find they love candy and particularly chocolate so any candy is greatly appreciated. My friend Laurie is working to get us candy here. We are trying to stock up on chocolate now as we only have about two months before it will be too hot to mail chocolate here. We also have peanut butter and jelly out for them on days when we can get bread and they love that. Christmas we were sent two honey baked hams that have been in our freezer and we thawed them this week and boy was that a hit.

I had a thrilled tonight when two young soldiers walked in, obviously brothers, in fact twins. I found out that they were not at the same FOB and were only in Balad to take a class and had not seen each other in a year and a half. They were darling! I pulled out my camera and took a couple pictures and then we emailed them to their mom. It made my day! I can’t wait to hear if she gets them.

Well I must close for now. I will try to write more often now that we are settling in to a more regular schedule. I love you all dearly and treasure your support and prayers for this mission. It is my prayer that we will become a place that our battle weary troops can come and find encouragement, support, and a touch of home.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Opening Day Pics and video

2008-02-09T05:50:00.002+03:00

Pictured above is everyone who contributed in the start up of the USO building.

Go to URL's below to view General Petreaus speech at Opening ceremony. The second URL shows Linda getting 'coined' by the General plus takes you inside the USO. Coolio...

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f91_1202400070

http://www.dvidshub.net/vjump.php?vid=34861

Opening Day

2008-02-09T00:01:00.001+03:00

Dear All,

What a wonderful day is was celebrating our Grand Opening! Besides all the preparations with the building there was much to do to prepare for the opening celebration itself. With dignitaries coming, security issues had to be coordinated and timing...yes timing of arrivals and flight schedules had things changing right up to the last minute.

Gen. David Petraeus was our distinguished guest. I was very impressed with him. So personalable and down to earth and very much about the troops. Took so much time to talk and take pictures with the troops. He went through the center and when he got to the ame room he had one of the trrops teach him how to play golf on the WII game.

Another surprise of the day was Will Courtney. He is on the USO World Headquarters board and the Dallas USO board. He came to the Grand Opening with other headquarter board members. It was so fun to see someone from home.

I need to get to bed but wanted to say hi and send some pictures. I tried and could not get the pictures to post. The internet is running very slow and that makes a difference. I will put them on as soon as I can.

I am so grateful for God's incredible faithfulness and provision for the USO Balad Air Base Center. What fun it was today to have troops in and out and enjoying the center.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Good Times!

2008-02-02T22:10:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

We have had eleven absolutely wonderful days here together that will forever be cherished for both Johnny and I. We spent many days laying on the beach, saw what we wanted to and never looked at the time nor felt any pressure to hurry or rush. We are well rested, a little sunburned but more than grateful for this time we have had.

Wednesday we took a bus half way around the island to Puerta De La Cruz, a very quaint harbour town with a wonderful town square and old fortress from the 1400's. There were more cliffs than beaches but the beaches we saw had their share of topless bathers. HMMMMM!!!!!! I just don't get it! Most of the streets were cobble stone and full of people with cute little resturants and shops.

Thursday we took a bus tour to the summit of El Teide a dormant volcano. Quite a contrast from the beautiful sunny beach to snow. The bus ride up was something else, up a very narrow winding road that at times made me hold my breathe. Johnny and I had chosen seats on the upper level right up front so it made for quite the trip. We rode a cable car up as high as you could go and hiked a short distance further. The homeward journey wasn't quite as treacherous and included several quaint little villages. With the two days of sight seeing we had pretty well been around the whole island.

We became frequent customers at our favorite little resturant. Four times I believe. It was a two and a half mile walk over from our hotel and the same back. I think we thought if we walked it we could eat more, but as I sit here at the airport I am finding my jeans to be a bit tight. Our next to last night we found a beautiful resturant where we dined in candle light with an amazing pianaist entertaining. It was a wonderful evening. There was not a dance floor but that did not stop Johnny from waltzing me around the area we were, once the other people had left. Another couple saw us and joined us dancing. Beautiful! So nice we went again last night!

We are now at the airport and will soon start our journeys home. This first leg we will do together then go our different directions once we are in London. I don't dread going back to Iraq but can not bear the thought of being apart again. Goodbye the second time I am finding harder than the first time.

I will be glad to know how things are in Balad. I do know we are on water restrictions and only we be allowed a three minute shower every other day. That's going to cramp my style.

That is all for now! I love you so and again am so appreciative of your support and encouragement.

In His Mighty grip,
Linda and Johnny

P.S.

2008-01-26T22:17:00.000+03:00

As you can see from my previous post, I have my IT man with me and hence.....Pictures in the posts! More to come....though I am sure that feature was not available in Iraq because I know I could have done that on my own! HA! HA!
Linda

PS Sorry Wendel it took me so long!

Tenerife at Last...

2008-01-26T22:03:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

What a wonderful time to be away and with Johnny. I think Johnny and I are the only American’s here. This must be the vacation spot for Europeans. With each day we are gearing down more and more. No big plans or places we feel we need to go, just taking it easy and enjoying being together.

Our room faces the ocean which is wonderful but also faces the night life of Tenerife, so we consequently have music until the early hours of the morning. It doesn’t seem to effect my sleeping as much as Johnny’s. During the day we just roam around seeing whatever sites we want to and spend a lot of time walking along the ocean and sitting out on the beach. We have just taken it easy up and until now, but plan to venture out to some of the surrounding towns and sites. Today we took our first bus ride to the next little village over. It was nice and we found a nice little restaurant with probably the best pizza I have ever had. It was called Olive Garden and not to be confused with what we know and love back home.

The trip here went fairly uneventful. I was very frustrated in Kuwait when they would only allow me to check one bag. I had planned on two. I brought a lot of stuff that I did not need that I was sending back with Johnny. Not only did they only allow one bag, the one big one I had was over the weight limit. I had to start stuffing stuff everywhere to get it down enough to qualify. Everyone around me had huge bags and were checking two. I figured they were going someplace different only to find them on my flight in my same row. I must not have received the memo with 'who to pay' to get more through. When I arrived in London I went to the check in counter to find out exactly what I was allowed for the next day. I got that all squared away and went on to my hotel. I boxed up a big box of stuff I was sending home with Johnny and had the hotel shuttle take me into the little town close by to mail it. That was a fortune but much cheaper than paying for the extra bag on the airlines. Later I walked into the same little town and after walking in circles several times I found this very, very old pub that had been recommended and stopped to have dinner. It was very quaint and I enjoyed the fish and chips and sitting by the fire place. Since my walk in had not been as direct as I thought I took a taxi back to the hotel.

I was up and out early to meet up with Johnny. All went smooth until I got to the security check and they told me I could only carry in one item and it had to be a certain size. By that time I was getting anxious and had wanted so bad to be at the gate when Johnny arrived. I did not know what to do. They sent me back to the check in and by then I was in tears. I kept apologizing for being so emotional and the little gentleman that helped me could not have been nicer. He just took my one bag that I had wanted to check anyway and checked it through and told me to go and enjoy my husband. I was so grateful and wish I had his name to be able to thank him. I was still so emotional and disappointed that I would not be at the gate when Johnny got in. They do security really weird…..I love DFW Airport….I love DFW Airport! You send all your stuff through and you go through and then you go through another one at the end where you take off your shoes. I wanted to share with them an easier way but decided it best that I didn’t. As I was putting on my shoes, I looked up and saw Johnny walking down the way. It probably wasn’t real lady like to yell his name and ran. Probably scared everyone around us! I don’t need to tell you what I did…..Cried like a baby! Johnny kept trying to console me but it was just so wonderful to be in his arms.

We made our way to our next flight and just kept grinning at each other. SO hard to believe we were finally together.

Needless to say we are having such a great time. Telling stories and remembering things to tell each other. We have talked to Amy, Alyson and John Micah a couple times and that has been so fun.

I am not sure what is going on back in Balad but I keep getting updates that they are on a power shortage, water shortage and high security alert. You are only allowed 3 minute combat showers! So sorry I missed that! I hope to hear soon what is happening there. Pray for our troops.

Well enough for now. Again I love you all dearly and appreciate so much your support and encouragement.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda and Johnny too!

R&R

2008-01-21T22:04:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

Yippy skippy! I am on my way! I got out of Iraq yesterday and spent five hours sitting like a sardine in a C1-30. I unfortunately did not get a direct flight into Kuwait from Balad. We made two stops and each time a few got off and more got on. Our last leg we were jammed packed in that plane. For the day, I totaled three combat take offs and two combat landings and one normal landing in Kuwait. (Combat landing not necessary in Kuwait)I landed in Kuwait late in the evening and could not find any of my USO counterparts and the USO Center was not open. I decided to take the military bus into the airport and get a hotel from there.

You have to wait about thirty minutes for your luggage to arrive. It comes in on a big pallet on a fork lift and is placed out in an open graveled area. A little different than DFW Airport. I had to get my orders stamped and have all my battle rattle (vest and helmet) stored. I missed the bus by about 15 minutes and had to wait until 01:30 to get the bus in. I walked around the base and had McDonald's to eat. Who would ever think I would get excited about a McDonald's hamburger. I made a couple of phone calls and the wait went really fast. You wait for the bus in the R&R check in area. I sat through the briefing that they give the troops getting ready to head home on the R&R flight that goes into Dallas. I talked to several that were going to Dallas and ask them to tell you all hi.

I finally arrived at my hotel at 3 in the morning. As I crawled into bed all I could think of is how much more appreciation I have for our troops. Going on R&R is grueling! Once the troops arrive in Dallas they have been through so much and have to be absolutely exhausted. They have it all very organized but it is still quite an ordeal. Once they get to Kuwait they sometimes have to stay there a day or two. They sleep in tents with fifty others. I felt very blessed to be in a very nice hotel and able to get a little rest before I head out to meet Johnny.

I slept until I woke up this morning and had a very nice quiet day. I even got a pedicure and manicure. I have to be at the airport early, early in the morning. I will have another night alone in London then will meet up with Johnny. I just can't wait.

I just wanted to say hi and let you know I am on my way on R&R. I was able to get so much done at the center before I left and that felt great. I had troops that came and volunteered and helped. I had so much fun with them and getting to know them. One night I got pizza for eight airmen that came to do all sorts of little jobs. They were such a help and were so fun. They all leave in my housing area and had been asking and asking to come help so I put together a list of things that needed done and they got them done. They also did the United Through reading for their children while they were there.

We will check in once we are in the Islands.
I love ya'll and appreciate so much your support and help. The books you are sending are making such a difference and enjoyed by our troops and their families so much.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Snow in Balad!

2008-01-14T07:10:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I am having a hard time getting on the internet here lately so I am sorry that it has been a little while.

Snow in Balad! Hard to believe but day before yesterday I woke up to a layer of snow on the ground. What an odd sight and one I never expected to see. It had rained all that night and in the early hours of dawn turned to snow. By mid morning, though still very cold, the snow was gone and the moisture had made this place a nasty, muddy mess. I think I have just a little better picture of the why the rainy season is spoken of with such dread. The talc consistency of the sand, now mix with moisture, is a little like peanut butter. It sticks and stays and creates quite a mess.

I had the Iraqi crew come today to help me scrub the bathroom and for most of them it was the first time they had ever seen snow. They said it was a sign from God. I am not sure what that sign said but they were clear the snow was a significant deal.
It has been a busy week for me. With both Shari and Angela gone I am going as fast as I can to get as much done as I can before I leave next week for R&R. I was able to get my new bookshelves put together and over to the hospital. It was fun moving in them and getting the United Through Reading office and room a little more fixed up. It looks so much better.

I spent one day repainting our doors in the center. They put these wooden louvers in the doors to help with the airflow and they needed to be painted. Amazing how quickly things get dirty as painting that little bit made the rest of the door look bad. Keep in mind that the only paint we can get on base is flat paint and we are very grateful to have it even though it is hard to keep clean and looking good. All the equipment for setting up our internet arrived and I spent some time tracking that down and getting it here to the center. It should be installed in the next two weeks. Boy will that be a blessing and be a key contributor to getting the center open and running. I also went out to the Special Forces compound to do United Through Reading there with those troops. They are fun and I am so honored to get to go in and do that.

I spent almost two whole days writing thanks you notes for all the books and care packages you have sent. Your support is unbelievable and I love telling the troops over and over what all you have done for them and how much the people back home love them and support them.

I spent most of yesterday and today making pillows for the sofas and some of the remaining drapes. I’m almost there. I am going to buy pillow from the PX and take the stuffing out of them to stuff my pillows. You have to be resourceful! There is no Wal Mart or hardware store to back me up when I need things. Who would ever think I would miss Wal Mart?

The Air Force units stay only four months. We came in at the same time with a new unit at the hospital and now four months later they are all starting to leave. I said goodbye to a group of them last night and that was so emotional for me. Of Course what hasn’t been!!! We came in together and struggled through those first weeks together all homesick and experiencing things we never thought possible. So many of them regularly read to their children and I call their children now by name, so it was like telling family good bye. It made me think of John Micah and the bonds he made during his time here and how close they all were and how hard that transition is when everyone goes home. There is nothing like the issues of war to unite you to people who you would never be close to otherwise. We all stood around in the cold last night waiting for the bus to load and reminiscing about events over the past four months. They finely all loaded the bus and those of us not going lined up by the bus and gave them a proper farewell salute. Since I don’t feel I have earned the right to salute I just put my hand on my heart and cry. I guess that is appropriate for me. Everyone dispersed from there but the bus didn’t leave right away. I couldn’t stand it so I went right inside the bus and told them all how proud I was of them and what an honor it had been watching them serve together. They are top notch men and women that have served their country well. Watching them serve these past months has certainly been a picture of strength under pressure, valor through pain and honor for country above self. They would make you all proud, they certainly did me.

There will be a steady flow of airmen leaving now over the next two weeks. Some that I was the closest to will leave while I am on R&R!

R&R…………I just can’t wait! I can’t even imagine seeing Johnny. What a glorious day that will be. We will meet up the London airport. I get in a day before him so I will have a night there to relax and rest before meeting him. Rest …. I will probably go four hours early and wait at his gate.

Well enough for tonight! A very Happy Birthday to my brother, George! Have a great day!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Good Days

2008-01-04T00:22:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

Happy New Year! I hope you are all settling into the new year. We are all members of one body working together to accomplish what God has for us, according to his purpose. What a motivation to know that what we do is all for the glory of him who made us. Makes you want to strive for excellence when you know you are working for the King.

There are times here that we feel we are going backwards faster than we are making progress forwards. It is those times that I have to trust him the most knowing he has gone before me and will provide what I need when I need it. That has certainly been the case here. The simplest of jobs often feels huge as the logistics of having the supplies you need are not a block away at the hardware store. I often have to laugh as we move forward. I am not sure I told you about our first day of painting. We had an Iraqi crew coming in to paint and we thought they were bringing the supplies to paint and we were to have the paint. That was not the case. We went to the self help area where you get paint and ask for what we needed. It was met with some kind of blank stares. You see, you are only allowed two buckets of paint a day. Our crew of eight would have used that in the first fifteen minutes. That meant we had to get to the right source/person who could give us permission to have more. That was accomplished and fairly painlessly but we were only given one roller and pan and two brushes. Once again we had to go back to the appropriate source/person and get special permission to have the supplies we needed. Even at that they did not have that much. So we thought we are set…. But then a ladder was needed. I go back to get a ladder and am told I need some kind of special signature card to be able to check out a ladder. Once again we get to the right source to make that happen. Everyday looks similar to that. It’s all good and everyone has bent over backwards to help us but there is nothing simple about the process.

It is a constant effort to purposely look at all this from the half full and not the half empty glass. With each new day I have had to learn to face the mountain of obstacles and see them as my friend and not my enemy. For me I have had to make the choice to see that all these hurry ups and wait were God’s yeses and no’s and not anyone or anything trying to prevent this project from happening. I would love to report that I have been successful at keeping that attitude but I admit there have been some down days where I wonder if it would ever happen. We are so close now and we wait for the remaining details to fall into place.

To add to that the three of us here are due for R&R. Hard since we all came in the same time. Shari left yesterday for Dubai for directors meeting and will tack her R&R on to her time there. Angela was to go after me in February but was called home yesterday to the states to be with her family as her grandfather is very ill. Pray for them as they face this hard time. He was, I believe a retired Commander Sergeant Major and serve his country well. About the time the two of them return I will leave out for my R&R. Now if you didn’t pick up on it…..that means I am here alone. When the cats away the mice will play! Not really! I am excited to accomplish what I can while the two of them are gone. It is kind of a challenge to maybe have some extra done as a surprise and encouragement. I am keeping the office open basically from 8 to 8 each day and will be able to keep busy with many touch up and finishing things.

Yes, I can’t believe I will be leaving out in a couple weeks for R&R. I am not going home for this R&R. I am meeting Johnny in the Canary Islands. Doesn’t that sound wonderful? It will be! It will just be so good to see him and share all the stories that I could not share over email, blog or the phone. Johnny has been the greatest encourager through this whole time, and this time apart has only deepened my love, joy, respect and honor for Johnny Robinson. My good friend Karen calls Johnny, St Johnny and you know, I think I would have to agree. He is an amazing man!
It is late so I must head to bed but wanted to say hi. I love you all and am so grateful for your support.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Happy New Years

2008-01-01T01:57:00.000+03:00

Dear All,
I sit in my room tonight with so many thoughts running through my head. Still so hard to believe that I just celebrated the New Year here in Iraq. This time last year you could have never convinced me that this is where I’d be. That was a dream to unrealistic to even voice. It has been an honor to be a part of opening the first USO here in Iraq but it has not come without many bumps in the path.

I knew it would be hard being away from my family but never did I imagine the gut wrenching pain that loneliness would pose for me. Learning to cope and handle that loneliness is a continual process that I imagine will remain as long as I am here. The positive side of that is feeling that I can identify in some small way with our troops as they leave their families to go off to war. When they are down and discouraged I can truly reach out as I have tasted a similar loneliness. I have had the most amazing support from all of you and your encouragement certainly makes my days easier and less painful. I pray our troops each have a similar support network behind them but I know there are those who do not and I pray that God give me eyes to see them and ears that will hear them.

I wish you each a very Happy Safe New Years and pray that we all seek the one who made us as you plan and move forward in 2008. As I have said many times, I don’t know what my futures holds, but I do know who holds my future and to him I give praise tonight for his loving watch care over me and my family.

You are so dear and have truly been the hands and feet of Jesus for me as you have loved me and encouraged me through this season in my life.

I love you and miss you,
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

The Ribbon Cutting

2007-12-30T00:26:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I have Internet in my room once again. Yippy Skippy! I am going to try and go back and catch you up on a few events that I was not able to write about. I will start tonight with our recent Ribbon cutting!

It was a great day. After days and weeks of planning, working and pushing through red tape and brick walls we celebrated USO Balad’s ribbon cutting. Admiral Mike Mullen was present to be a part of that ribbon cutting. It was a proud moment to watch Kevin, Col Romine, Admiral Mullen and Shari hold the three foot ceremonial scissors and cut the red, white and blue ribbon. Present to observe this event and landmark in USO history were many troops, along with Robin Williams, Kid Rock, Lance Armstrong and Miss USA.

Our time was very short with the distinguished guests that came but it accomplished what it needed to and certainly made a memory in my heart. The DV’s were here for a concert that they did just prior to coming over to our ribbon cutting. For obvious safety reason here in “Mortaritaville” they don’t normally have entertainment venues outside, but it was the only way to accommodate the numbers of troops that wanted to attend. As for me, standing there at the concert and watching the troops sing and laugh and participate just blessed my heart. The stadium was full and the field in front of the stage packed with troops. Big military vehicles were parked on either side of the stage and troops were sitting up on them.

The center is beautiful. I will download my pictures and send them to you soon. Shari did an outstanding job planning and executing the remodel .The center is unlike anything here on base and I know will bring much joy and refreshment to the troops that come in. The doors are not actually opened yet as we wait on many little unfinished areas to be completed. In fact there is not one room that is fully operational.

Along with things not being ready we will also be very short staff through the middle of February. Shari will be on leave the first part of January, I will take leave the end of January and Angela will go right when I get back. That will make staffing the center very hard. The way our center is set up we will need to have two staff here at all times, one at the check in desk and the other walking around keeping an eye on everything. We are keeping the office open all day so we are there for the workers as they come and for those who stop in for a tour.

I must head to bed now but tomorrow will catch you up on my most recent move.
I love you all dearly and miss you so much!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T23:24:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. I sat in church Sunday and was so emotional until I realized all of us there were experiencing the same thing. It kind of helped to take the focus off of myself and reach out to others. I have truly learned that it is in giving that we receive. When being away from family and friends gets to be to much I have to stop and focus on those around and somehow in reaching out and encouraging others I too am encouraged.

Your cards and care packages have meant the world and seem to always arrive on the perfect day. The out pour of Children's books have been so appreciated by our troops and are making such a difference in their families. I have hugged and encouraged Generals and Private who are emotional after reading to their children. It has been a treasured part of my time here.

I pray that each and everyone of you have a special Christmas and enjoy wonderful time with your families and friends.

I love you all dearly and miss you so much!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Clarification

2007-12-17T21:17:00.000+03:00

Hi All,

The volunteers to put things together are troops from here. I have had several emails of people volunteering to come help put furniture together. Ya'll are great and thanks!

I have just one more pair of valances to make but still no curtain rods. I will be gone all day tomorrow doing the United Through Reading Program out at the Special Operations compound so I won't get much done on the center. Shari will be working hard putting the final touches on. Okay maybe we need a few more than final touches but she will do her magic.

The weather has stayed great! You need a sweater or light jacket in the evening but it warms up good during the day. Day before yesterday I almost thought I was in West Texas. It was pretty windy and cool. Still no major rain. We had one twenty four hour period where it rained but nothing since. My girls sent me some great rain boots so I am set when it hits.

We closed up working early this evening. We were all pretty exhausted and needed to get some rest. I wanted to come check email before I go to my room. Things have been just so busy that I have not even checked email everyday and I feel out of touch.

More later, I love and miss you all.
In HiS Mighty Grip,
Linda

Opening Soon!

2007-12-17T13:42:00.000+03:00

Dear All,
A very Happy Holiday to all of you! The pace is picking up around here as we gear up for the finishing touches on the USO Center. Workers are busily finishing up the final touches and we are waiting for flooring and furniture to arrive. The furniture is to arrive the earliest the 18th and we are trying to have a soft opening the 20th. Much of the furniture is IKEA so it will need to be assembled. We may need to have a “bring your own screw driver party” to get everything put together.

Well I started this blog three days ago and just can’t seem to find time to finish it. I either fall asleep trying to write or am going so fast I can’t stop to do it. I miss very much writing to you and sharing what all is going on. It will get a little easier once the center is up and running.

I will be moving again. This time it should be for good. We will put Internet in there. It has been Shari’s desire to secure real state that will forever remain USO property. When the different ones leave a new USO employee will come in and enjoy the already set up room. The room I am in now is equivalent to a single wide trailer that is divided into three rooms. My new room is the same but only divided into two rooms. It is as close to the bathrooms as you can get so that will also be nice.

I started this blog entry three days ago but both nights fell asleep typing and woke up a couple hours later with my laptop sitting in my lap.

We had a great two days. Our flooring arrived yesterday and they installed it last night and today. Then we got a call yesterday afternoon and our furniture was going to arrive this morning. We are thrilled and it was nice leaving there this evening with things starting to really look like a center. I have spent the last couple of days sewing! Those of you who know me, know how I love to sew so it has felt good to do my part making curtains and will do pillows next. The only hitch is our curtain rods have not arrived. We so hope to have them by Thursday for our opening. KBR did some builds for us in our lounge and they installed them today also. They are amazing and we are very proud and honored that they did that for the USO. Between now and Thursday there is lots and lots of little stuff that will keep us very busy.

I have received so many books and I appreciate them so much. Ya’ll have been fabulous to send so many. I am going through them fast and so it is always thrilling to open another books labeled books. Last Friday I was running out of the mini DVD’s and it bothered me so bad to turn troops away because I did not have the supplies I needed. As I was packing up for the evening I took a minute to open a care package that Donna sent me that I had not had a minute to look at much less open. When I got it opened I burst into tears as once again God’s almighty provision for my needs sat right in front of me and had been there all day. It was a box filled with enough mini DVD’s to last me a good two weeks. Different ones kept sticking their heads into see why I was crying and it was wonderful to tell them how great God is and how he cares about them. It was great to tell them how all of you in the states loved them and supported them and were the ones sending all these books and DVD’s. They were all very touched at your support.

The top of the box was filled with all sorts of sewing notions. Could not have done this sewing project without them! I am just so deeply touched by all the support I am receiving. It is so humbling and motivates me so much to make full use of my time here.

I will be sewing most of tomorrow and then doing United Through Reading all day Tuesday. I will take lots of pictures of the opening at eh center for you to see.

Again thank you so much for your support.I miss you all so much and I love you.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Pressing On....

2007-12-10T06:46:00.000+03:00

Dear All,
Well the internet is no longer in my room. The individual who actually had the internet was transferred and I didn’t keep it as we will be relocating and will then get it installed at that location. I've been spoiled having it in my room. I apologize in not posting on the blog but my days have been extremely busy.

It is going to get even more busy now as I will start this week making pillows and curtains with the sewing machine we purchased for the USO. We have lots of touch up painting to do as well. Our priority tomorrow is to track down internet for the center and for our rooms when we relocate.

Shari made a trip to Kuwait last week to finalize the purchase and transport of the furniture for the USO. A lot of it is from IKEA so that will mean we have to assemble it. We will invite volunteers over to come and bring a screw driver and help. It is nice for me having Shari back.

I am generally unaware that it is the holidays because our days are so busy, but then when I heard Christmas music in the PX the other day I just started crying. Christmas time is always a special time around the Robinson household.

The United Through Reading program continues to flourish. Thank you, thank you for all of the books that you have sent. It is just incredible as I am receiving them from all parts of the U.S. What great Americans you are!!! I am so blessed because of you kind generosity. I wish each of you could just hear just one of these soldiers reading your book to their children. It is truly something special and it is all because of you. God bless each one of you!!

I attended Church today and am getting to know many of the soldiers there. It is amazing the strong faith of many of our military commanders. What a blessing for all of sons and daughters who are led by these commanders.

Well I hope to give you a more extensive update very soon. It is a little more challenging without the internet in my room.

I love you all and thank you for your continued prayers and support.

In His Mighty Grip,

Linda (posted by JR)

Thanksgiving in Kuwait!

2007-11-27T00:31:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I know it has been a while since I sent an update so I hope to catch you up on things. Life has been very busy working on the center. They have almost finished painting and since it was the first time for this Iraqi crew to paint we have s lot of touch up painting to do! Shari arrived almost two weeks ago and she is working hard keeping things going on this project.

We moved into our new housing and we love it. They are dry trailers but the bathrooms are very close. It is a whole different environment than my old place. Quite a community type feel to it. We have the Red Cross staff on our row and I think they are not as happy about us being there as we are being there. The walls are paper thin and you can hear everything that goes on in the room next door. Fortunately for me my neighbor works 10 at night until 8 in the morning so that makes it easier for me at night to not have to be overly concerned about making noise. Shari on the other hand has a neighbor who is here at night and he is VERY sensitive about any noise. Being that our rooms are also our office we are in and out and in each others rooms constantly. In the evening when we are there we leave our doors open and that way we can go in and out and visit with those passing by.

We have been so busy we have not been able to work at the hospital as much but we love it when we do. There was a mass causality a week or so ago and while we were at lunch the called for all medical personal to return to the hospital. We were going there anyway so we went on in and were able to help. We ended up taking all the litters or stretchers and cleaning them. You use a power washer to wash them down then stand them up in the sun to dry. Another part that has to be done and it felt good to be able to help. Again it was amazing to watch the staff and volunteers go into action and handle this so well and care for the injured Iraqi people.

We have met so many wonderful people and have had so much support and help. Our regional operations person was here and she got me a car so wow I am spoiled. It does really help though.

United Through Reading is going well and I am so appreciative of all the books you have sent. There is no way to describe how much this program means to our troops. One Airmen told me that his wife said their two year old son talk to his daddy all the way through the DVD and when they went to replay the DVD the little boy said “no daddy I’ll get us another book.” Did not quite understand daddy on the TV yet! They are starting to bring me pictures of their children and I will soon put together a bulletin board to display them. I kind of feel like they are all my babies now! Last Friday and Saturday I filmed 38 DVD’s. Isn’t that cool! It just blesses my heart to be a part of this program.

This next week I have several other unites that I will go to and film. The word is out and I could be doing UTR 24/7 if I could. Again thank you for the books and keep them coming.

Things started really falling into place this past week on the building but we kept running into one brick wall after another. The first of this week it was suggested that we fly into Kuwait and find what we need and then have it brought in on a convoy. So in a matter of hours we were on a small plane into Kuwait. I will say that was a nice way to travel and it was interesting being able to see a little of the terrain. Shari and I have had a good time here in Kuwait. Who would have ever thought a bath would almost make you cry and a toilet in your room would feel like such luxury.

The only things about coming meant that we missed Thanksgiving with our troops but it was necessary. God was good. The day was hard and emotional realizing how far away from my family I was. We were invited to a family’s home that are American’s but have lived here for seventeen years. They were delightful. Their home was the most amazing thing I have ever seen. Bottom floor was a beautiful pool then there were four levels above that. The have a remodeling/decorating business and their home certainly showed off their abilities. It was a sit down dinner for 125. Prior to dinner we were entertained by singers. They had an amazing spread of food with all the trimmings and desserts that fit for the famous. After dinner a magician performed and then best of all they pushed the furniture back, cranked up the music and danced. Boy was that fun. It was a delightful evening. Kevin was here and his daughter and Shari’s son so in the absence of my own family I was very grateful for the new extended family God has giving me. The host and hostess were very gracious and made us feel very welcome.

We shopped all day Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and found a good deal of stuff we needed. The contractor we are working with from Balad came in and took us around Saturday. Hopefully we have made some progress!

We are now on the return process which who knows how long that will take. It is the hurry up and wait thing. I am back now. We ended up spending the night at the USO center in Kuwait and arrived here today at four in the morning. A little tired but feeling like we are moving forward.

I love you all and miss you greatly.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Happy Belated Veterans Day!

2007-11-14T10:48:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

Happy Belated Veterans Day! First and foremost I want to thank all my dear veteran friends for your service and sacrifice to our country. To my son John Micah, I am so proud of you and your service to our country and for the patriotism that runs so deep in your veins. Your choice changed my life. Blake I thank you also and am so very proud of you!

Veterans Day was another memorable day that will be forever etched on my heart. One hundred and fifty six soldiers, airmen and marines stood together and pledged their allegiance to our country and took the American oath of citizenship. It was so touching. The keynote speaker was the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. It was rather poignant to be sitting in what was once a beautiful theater built by the past dictator and ruler of Iraq that stripped his people of freedom and yet today that place was hallowed ground as troops representing fifty three other countries raised their right hand and took the oath of allegiance. As they stood to take the oath the aisles filled with theirs friends and battle buddies snapping pictures right and left. As their name was called and they walked across the stage to receive theirs papers and to receive the congratulatory hand shake and photo with the significant people on the stage their battle buddies captured just the right picture and often cheer out of excitement.

And me, I cried like a baby all the way. I found every part of it to be so meaningful and dear. I love watching the pride these troops had as they took the oath but equally as meaningful was the excitement and support their battle buddies exhibited to them. It was clear they knew what a special day this was.

I have much I want to tell you and will catch you up on everything this evening but I just couldn’t wait another day to thank our veterans.

I love you and miss you!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Making Progress

2007-11-10T17:36:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

The time seems to be flying and things for the center are moving along. They have just about finished painting the rooms that they can and now our work begins doing touch ups and all those things that will make the center homey. This was the first painting this crew had ever done and I guess for a first they did pretty well. Many drips, drops and run found their way to the floor and we are hopeful they come up.
Shari is here and will be with us through the end of the year and we are most grateful for that. She is a delight and a very hard worker and I am excited about learning from her.

Big news! I am moving! Shari needed a room and they found her one a couple miles away from mine in a different pod. It is a little smaller pod and the bathrooms are much, much closer. We did some checking and talked to the appropriate people and were able to secure me a room in the same area and in fact just across from Shari’s. For me this is a real blessing. One the bathrooms are very close and there is a walk way to the showers which will be wonderful when the rainy season begins. With Shari and I there together we will be able to do the battle buddy thing which will make us both feel much more secure. I couldn't be more pleased and relieved. The room is almost exactly like what I was in so it will be an easy move.
The weather here is wonderful. It is in the 50’s when I get up and gets up in the 80’s during the day. Very pleasant! I think I am a little intimidated by the rainy season that everyone talks about. I had two people ask me today if I had my rubber boots. That sounds attractive! They say it is really yucky and messy. The sand is so fine is just makes a paste and it goes everywhere. I am sure I’ll have much more to tell you about it when it is here. Until then I will enjoy these beautiful days in this land where it all began.

Shari came with me to the hospital yesterday and was trained at the helipad. We stayed for a couple hours and she thoroughly enjoyed it. We will enjoy the time we have right now to be there as I know once the center is open it will be a little harder to go. I am still hoping to work my schedule where I have at least one night a week where I can go and help. It is just so rewarding and I love meeting all the different ones that come to volunteer. I have so many special friends there at the hospital. Most will go home sometime during the first of the year so then I will have a whole new group to get to know.

United Through Reading is tomorrow and I am always excited about that. I have received a good deal of books and that makes it so wonderful. I received a big box from Pat and Jill yesterday!

Well I must get to bed. I love you all dearly and miss you so much.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Busy Days and Books and Bagpipes

2007-11-05T19:17:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

It has been a busy week but one that has some progress to show for it. First and foremost, we have a building. It will be perfect and we are excited to now move forward. We have a crew of Iraqi national who are painting and cleaning the building. It is quite a process for them to work on base. I don’t know what all that process consists of but I trust they have been thoroughly screened. Even with all the screening they are accompany by two armed soldiers who guard them as they work. They only work about two to two and a half hours in the morning and are gone before noon. If you want them to stay until mid afternoon you must provide them lunch. The guards have quite a job keeping them working. They would rather take breaks than work. A strong work ethic is not real apparent. It feels like it is going to take forever for the painting and all to be finished but they actually have made pretty good progress.

Supplies are hard to come by on the base. Finding and having enough rollers, buckets, extension poles and paint is a battle in itself. Of course one must realize we are in a war zone and supplies to help improve the esthetic of building is not, as it should be, a priority. We are fortunate to have some wonderful contacts that are doing everything possible for us. The base is thrilled at the thought of having a USO Center here for our troops.

In the process of all this I found an area that I think is so cool. On base they have an area set up with all sorts of tools that the troops can use. Though the materials are somewhat limited, troops were there making shelves, tool box cabinets, flag cases and one sweet soldier was making a beautiful little something for his wife for Christmas. I am not going to tell you what he was making, just in case she reads this blog. It was sweet and I was touched that with as few hours as he has off he chose to spend it making a treasured keepsake for his sweetheart. And it wasn’t even Christmas Eve! He planned ahead! WOW! Ya’ll know me and tools….I was itching to get in there and build something.

In the last two days books have been arriving in the mail for the UTR program. I am so excited and can’t wait until next Friday. Big thanks to my Mom, Aunt Ann, Don, Greta, Connie and Candy for all the books. I will now be able to go ahead and set up times in some of the other units to go to their headquarters and film their troops. With as many soldiers, airmen and marines on this base you could keep a person working pretty much full time just doing this program.

Now to the heart of my day! This week three Air Force Special Agents from our base were killed in an IED explosion. Today was their memorial. Once again I was so touched to able to participate in this memorial. If only the world and especially America’s could see how our “Fallen Heroes” are honored. I was intrigue and awe struck by the reverence and valor I saw displayed throughout the entire hour and half ceremony. The unfolding and folding of the flags, the firing of the guns and the bagpiper playing Amazing Grace all spoke loudly of the honor and value placed on the lives of these three who sacrificed all for me. There were no details left unattended. The words prayed and spoken by those present were not only a tribute to these three beautiful young service men but also a testimony to the country they loved. I couldn’t help but think of their mothers, fathers, siblings, wives and children who were at home grieving. I pray that God Almighty will comfort them during this time of pain. I pray the communities they live in will embrace these families not just today or through these initial weeks but will stand by them for the many years to come.

At the end of the service as the bagpiper played, those that served side by side with these three walked up in pairs to the traditional boots, helmet and gun to say their final goodbyes. To watch them stand and so reverently salute then kneel by each pair of boots and grieve absolutely took my breath away. I’ll never be able to express all the emotions that ran through as I watched. Sorrow, pain, pride, joy all mixed up together!

I sit here tonight only seven weeks into this journey and find myself so grateful for all your support and encouragement. Every card, email, package and book you send speaks volumes to me of how loved and supported I am. Johnny Robinson, you are my hero! Thank you for supporting in this journey and for being that constant hand of support.

I love you all so dearly and miss you greatly!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Moving Forward

2007-11-04T14:08:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

It has been a busy week but full of new adventures and progress. Things are moving forward with our center. We are thrilled. The cleaning and painting has begun and that feels wonderful. Paint is very limited here on base so we only had two colors to pick from. We chose a light gray. When it first was going up and in contrast to what was there it looked like a beautiful shade of baby blue. Fortunately for me that was nice since I love blue. As more and more goes up and you see less of the old paint it is a light gray and will be just fine! We have a crew of Iraqi Nationals who are doing the painting. That is an interesting opportunity to work with them. We also have two soldiers who guard them so all is well. I will say they don't believe in working long hours and they expect many breaks so we are lucky to get two hours work out of them during their three to four hour time with us! They are very short on supplies here on base so you have to be a bit creative to get the work done!

It will be great when finished. We are anxious to get our offices set up and the rest of the center. We still have phone lines to run and Internet lines to drop so we are a ways from the finish line but we at least can see where we are going.

The United Through Reading is going well! Books are starting to come which helps so very much. Thank you all who are sending them. I will try to get some pictures of the set up and some of our troops reading. It is such an inspiring program and something that really means so much to our troops.

I had one soldier come Friday, grinning from ear to ear as his wife had given birth to a beautiful baby boy. He was so proud. Of course I wanted pictures and all he had was on his computer. He took my thumb drive and put them on there so I could see the baby. Beautiful! Beautiful! That night I made a couple copies and brought them to him Saturday so he could expand his bragging rights. Kind of hard to walk around with a laptop all the time to show off pictures. He was thrilled. He read a book to his new son! And, let's see, what did Linda do......cried like a baby!

Another hospital staff person walked by and told me about his new son also! Isn't it amazing the sacrifices these troops are making for us. I can't imagine not getting to be there for the birth of my child and missing it's first couple months of life. It makes me doubly proud and honored to be here and rejoice with our troops in these new arrivals.

Well I need to run. This afternoon we have a memorial service for three that we lost this week. This will be hard but something I want to be apart of. Again so proud and honored to share this time with our troops...even the hard times!

I love you all dearly and miss you!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

I Have Missed You!

2007-10-29T18:34:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I am sorry that it has been so long since I have written to you! I certainly didn't mean to worry anyone but it has been necessary. Some questions about my blog came up from this end and I needed some time to seek the right counsel. The last thing I would want to do is write anything that caused concern or put any one here at risk. I took a copy of my blog to the JAG office for them to look over and advise. They did not have much to say and did not feel a need to read it. I have one other direction I need to go for the appropriate counsel and I will do that hopefully tomorrow.

It was very painful to think that anything I have said hurt someone! I will seek out the information and any training I need on security things and then continue from there. It may become necessary to password protect this but I will hopefully be able to do that where you are all able to have that password. That would just make it where someone just searching the Internet would not be able to open the blog.

It has been a busy week. The pool here is closing so this weekend we had a Luau and BYOGC (bring your own guitar - contest. We had close to 700 come out for the event and that did not include the many who helped. We had hamburgers and hot dogs provided by MWR, favored slushies and lots of fun games and prizes. This was pulled off in less than two weeks but fell into place and was a wonderful day of fun. For me just watching our troops laugh and play and have a great time was a joy. We had 8 bring their guitars and play for all. We had everything from country, Leonard Skinner(you'd loved it Rhenda), Zeppelin and some of the troops own originals. Amazing the talent here on this base.

We had some very distinguished guests come and spend the afternoon with us. The Base Commander and his chief of staff came and we put them to work as our judges for the guitar competition. The AF TSGT that won did a incredible version of Zeppelins, Star Spangle Banner. Fun was had by all! We will probably do it again for opening day of the pool.

We have several events we are helping with for Halloween. A Fun Run, and a Karaoke Contest. We will also pass out at the DFAC some candy bags we have put together. Good times with some America's finest and best heroes!

I continue to do what I can at the hospital. I have ask Johnny if I came stay a little longer after my USO commitment and be a Candy Striper here at the hospital! (I do hope I spelled that right please forgive if I did not) I just love helping here and find it so rewarding!

Friday was another wonderful day with the United Through Reading Program. I was low on books but even still filmed sixteen troops. IT is just so great. I will ask one of them this week if I can put their picture on here for you to see the set up. Maybe I will just read you all a book. HMMMM! Can I put video's on here? I will check!

I enjoyed church again on Sunday and find it to be such a blessing to worship with our troops. The three young men who sat in front of me this week I had met the day before and visited with them at lunch! They were finishing up their time here and will head home before the week is over. They were so cute and fun to be with. They always ask who is there for the first time and always ask those who are leaving that week to go home. That for me is always such a praise to know they are going home to their families. An answer to the prayers of so many of you who pray so faithfully for our troops!

Thank you to so many of you who have offered to send books for the children's UTR. That is a huge praise! All are greatly appreciated. Mary, yours came today and the timing could not be better. I was so low and was concerned about Friday and having some that the troops would want to read! Thank you, thank you! They are perfect!

To each of you thank you for your support and for your prayers. This is truly the most amazing journeys I have ever been on and I wish so much you were here to share it with me. I know through your prayers, emails, cards and carefully prepared care packages you are here with me and you walk with me every day. Last night after a long day with the Luau and all I came to check my email here at the hospital but found I was to tired to response to most of them so I headed back to my room. It was a beautiful night with a big almost full moon and the emotions ran deep as I looked up to see God's beautiful creation. I couldn't help but think how all of God's creation shouts his glory! What comfort to know that those I love could look up and see the same and to pray for those who see God's creation yet know him not!

I love you all so much and am so grateful for your support! I will keep you in the loop on the blog situations. Pray that God keeps these doors of communication open if that is his will and that it will be pleasing to him.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Quiet Day

2007-10-20T18:35:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I am having a quiet day here. I did go to the post office to mail all my UTR packages. That always feels good to know those are on there way. I did a few errands then cleaned my room and did my ironing! WooHoo!! It was nice though and gets me all ready for another week.

I think I am a little homesick today thinking of my family all out in California. Oh how I would love to be with them. I know they will have a great time. I talked to them yesterday and they were having lunch by the ocean. NICE! I have the sand but no ocean!!!

We had a little discouraging news about the center. We may not get the building that they thought they had for us. We will know more on Monday! The hurry up and wait is not fun but then I guess that is the life of the military.

I just wanted to say hi! Jan Dunn is that you who left the comment! Girl how are you doing! Email me! llrobinson12@hotmail.com I'd love to hear what all is going on in your life!

I love you all dearly,
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

If It's Friday It Must Be United Through Reading

2007-10-19T22:40:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

It was another great day here at the hospital with United Through Reading. I filmed twice as many as last week and got to know that many more of our wonderful troops. They are all so appreciative. The troops here at the hospital work 12 -15 hour days and are not able to leave during that time. They are so grateful to have this program here and it is so much fun talking to them. What fun!

BUT.....I need books, books, books! Any new children's book would be appreciated. There are two sizes of flat rate boxes and you can load those things full and the shipping is the same. I believe it is $8.95.

I could hear one airman in there singing to his children. You can just imagine I was crying like a baby. Some of these soldiers are very shy but turn them loose with a camcorder and alone in a room to talk to their children and it is so precious. I love it, love it, love it!!!!

I filmed 14 DVDs and that represented 31 children. Isn't that cool to think that 31 precious little ones will go to bed with a smile on their face here in about a week or so. I had many ask if I would be getting any Christmas or Chanukah books. I told them I would see what I can do!

It is late and I am exhausted so I am going to head to bed. I just was excited about my afternoon and evening with the UTR and wanted to tell you about it.

My family is all out in California. They are running in the Mud Run at Camp Pendleton. I am so proud of them and would love to be with them. Both Grandmas went out with Johnny to cheer them all on. They will all have a blast. Go Robinson Family!!!!

I love you and miss you all greatly.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

It's Getting Closer

2007-10-17T22:05:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

We are getting closer and closer to securing a building for the center and we are thrilled. I continue to volunteer at the hospital as much as I can and it is so rewarding. I love going to the DFAC/Dining Facility not necessarily because of the food but because that is soldier time. It is always so fun to see where and who God sits me next to.

Keep in mind that this base has thirty thousand troops. The young man I had lunch with on Friday, I have run into him three times now! I emailed Gary Smalley as his material had been so helpful to Johnny and I some years ago when we were struggling. He emailed me back and is sending some of his materials. I am thrilled and thrilled to share it with this young soldier. I am not quite sure how else I will do it but there is a huge need here to share this material here on base.

Day before yesterday I was woken up early by an explosion. I looked out and back by the hospital there was a big mushroom cloud of smoke. For a moment I thought the hospital had been hit. The warnings did not go off so I knew it was not inside the wire. I headed out to take my shower and I no more got out my door and a step or two away and the sirens went off saying Incoming, Incoming! I darted back in my room and took cover. Very shortly they said All Clear, All clear! It is just so odd and still seems so unreal that this happens. It wasn't until that afternoon that we found out that it was a car bomb outside the wire but with in haering range. None of our troops were injured!

That afternoon while at the hospital one of the Dr. ask if I wanted to help with some Iraqi toddlers that were in the ward. Of course I was thrilled so once I finished up some USO meetings I came back here and babysat. What fun! Who would ever think all those BSF finger plays would be used here in Iraq. The two year old was actually ready to be discharge but did not have any place to go as mom was here also. The five year nephew and fourteen year old niece were here as well. The mom was hurt more serious. A mom is a mom in any country and I loved watching her try to love and nurture her son. We played with balloons and balls and it was such a sweet time for me. I came back the next day to help feed the little one lunch. Tonight I watch the family all be placed on a helicopter and taken back to their home town where the rest of there family is. There will be those there who care for the little one as mom remains in the hospital there.

Yesterday afternoon I was here at the hospital checking email and the sirens went off and it was a code red. Code Red means that somewhere on base there was a direct mortar hit. We all hit the ground and took cover. Fortunately for me I was here inside but Angela had just left to go run an errand so she had the joy of sitting out in a bunker for 15 minutes or so. There was a group of Generals from the states here tour the facilities so she spent that time in the bunker with them. Once the All Clear is up everyone has to report to their unit for accountability. Quite a little process. I must say that through all this I still have never felt as though I was in danger or my life threaten in any way. I feel very safe here!

Kevin, our regional supervisor is here and we spent the morning with the Mayor working on the building and then the afternoon, Shari, Angela and I making a plan for the rooms and the things we need and prioritizing the needs. We are pretty excited about what looks like it will be our new home. We finished up around 16:30 and they were exhausted and jet lagged so we all went our ways.

Me, of course came here to the hospital. AS I walked in the door different ones kept saying you have a truck for all your mail. Well I needed one. Between Angela and myself we had received 19 boxes today. Whew! I left and walked over and got the car from Angela and came back to load up all the boxes. 11 of the boxes were mind. WOW! Thank you Laurie! What fun!

Before I left I came by the computer room to check my email and weirdly enough I was the only one in here. I stuck my head out and ask if something had happened because that is really strange to have no one in here. They said that a trauma code x5 (meaning 5 injuried) had been issued and all went back to help. I knew that would be busy so I went back to see if I was needed and was immediately taken to a helicopter to help. This time it hit hard and touched my heart. It was the first time I brought in one of our wounded troops! There were several and emotionally I was not prepared for what I would feel and yet all I could think about is how glad I was to be there making eye contact with the soldier and reassuring him all the way that he was safe now and in good hands. As you take them out of the choppers you walk through this tent tunnel called Heroes Highway before you enter the Er. The whole ceiling of this tunnel is one huge, I mean huge American flag. That is what our heroes see from the stretcher looking up.

I went back to my room and had a good cry and thanked God I was here to help! It is an amazing thing watching everyone go into action and care for our wounded. After opening my boxes....and that was fun...I came back to the hospital and helped at the pad a couple more hours. I just love it!

I am waiting now for my nurse friend who is finishing up in the Operating Room so we can walk back to our rooms together. It has been a good, great couple of days full of so many new experiences and divine appointments! I am continuously surprised by joy as I serve here and see the hand of God in my life and in the surroundings he has placed me.

You are all the best and your support and encouragement means the world. Continue to support our military guys and girls as I stand amazed at their sacrifices for our country.

I love you and miss you greatly!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Blessed Again

2007-10-14T14:00:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

It is Sunday afternoon and this morning I made my way to one of the church services here on base. It was out in the Tuskegee Airman's building where I attended the Change of Command Ceremony when I first got here. Once again it was one of those divine appointments that keep you encouraged and moving forward. What fun to see Colonel's, and Majors and Privates together worshiping our Lord. God made us to worship him and part of his plan is that we do so corporately!I was certainly blessed by my time there.

The Mayor of Balad who has been such a help with the USO leads the music. I was blessed again and again and reminded that God was going to take care of all my needs and even needs I didn't know I had as I serve him here.

Kevin will return tomorrow and hopefully we will be able to move forward with plans for the center.

I will write more later. I am going to catch up on ironing today. Yes ironing still is a part of my life even here in Iraq.

Each of you have a great day and again thank you for you support and encouragement!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

It's been a Month!

2007-10-13T14:42:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

Hard to believe I left Texas a month ago. Time has flown. I woke up yesterday a bit overwhelmed and anxious. We have been here almost four weeks and it didn't feel like we were any closer to having a center than the day we arrived. Before the day was over that all melted away as I saw God open doors and give me opportunities with our troops to talk and encourage and just be there that made me glad for the extra time I have right now!

I went to lunch and sat next to a young man who was getting ready to head home on R&R and will meet his family in Dallas. Well of course that excited me to think he will see all your glorious faces when he arrives. Knowing the honor that is ahead of him thrilled my heart. I was able to give him the correct information for his family. AS we were visiting another young man sat down. I have found most do not initiate conversation. I never know if they want to talk or be left alone so I am careful as I engage with them.

This young man readily talked but seemed so down. The first soldier left and the other ask me how I made my marriage last 33 years. We talked and he shared that he needed help. His wife had announced the day before he left that she did not love him anymore. He is broken hearted as he said he thought he had everything the world had to offer in his wife and 15 month old son. He is trying so hard and doing everything he can to talk to her and begin to rekindle things. Before it was over he ask if I could meet with him occasionally to help him talk through some things. Of course that was right down my alley. His chaplain is letting us use his office. What a wonderful opportunity. I will certainly find time for that!

I left there emotional and so grateful for that little divine appointment. I came to the hospital toting all my Uniting Through Reading stuff and sat up the room. It was to start at 4 but by 3:15 I had a darling LtCol there ready to read. He was the sweet daddy I heard that evening in the computer room talking to his children, his little princess. From then until almost nine that night I had a steady flow of men and women there to read books to their children. What a blessing! Sherri Allen, you better hang on tight to you UTR position because girlfriend I'll be all about that when I get back. That was so fun!

For those of you who are not familiar with United Through Reading. it is a program that the USO has partnered with the Family Literacy Foundation to connect families through reading. I have new children's books that I set out. The troops pick out a book and I do a DVD of them reading the book to their child. Then we send the book and the DVD to the child. Many of the troops told their children all about their uniform and the stuff on it and the Helicopter Pad soldier started out with his headphones on and eye protection. It was all so cute and I had a blast talking to them or in my case crying with them. A couple had to start over as they got so emotional. What a precious program. I will be here every Friday to record them.

We had a big encouragement on our center today and so hopefully I will have good news for you soon.

To all of you, thank you for your support and encouragement. It means the world. It is amazing to me how every time I get a Little discouraged God opens an unexpected door that gives me even greater purpose and enthusiasm to be here. He is good!

I love and miss you all so much!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Reality of War

2007-10-11T18:18:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

I have so much I want to share tonight! It has been a busy couple of days. I have been meeting with different ones to get places to film the United Through Reading Program. It has gone really well and I will actually start taping some tomorrow! I am starting here at the hospital first and then have several units that I will go to and the PAX Terminal. It will be great to begin to get more involved with the troops! Boy do I wish Sherri was here! It will be slow as I only have one camera. I will ask headquarters if I can have another. Many of the MWR's have similar programs but none of which actually send the books and the troops have to send the DVD's themselves, so the troops are thrilled and can't believe there is no cost!

I thought of something you moms will be interested to here. At each of the DFAC/Dining Facilities as you go in the first room you go to is lined with sinks. You are required to wash your hands. Pretty good don't you think!The food is okay but not home and very high in carbs!

My room is in a pod of trailers. Two trailer face each other and each trailer has three rooms. In the A pod where I am there are around a hundred rooms. The trailers are all close together and since the base runs twenty four seven there are people sleeping day and night. I have not learned exactly the hours of all those around me but there are some who sleep during the day. When I am in my room I live in silence so I won't wake those who are sleeping. The walls are very thin. I moved my bed to the other side of the room so the air conditioner didn't blow right on me and the first night I did it I was startled when the gentleman in the room next to me coughed. His bed must be against the same wall as mine and I thought someone was in the room.

This morning I had a very early, 6:30 a.m. meeting, when I got back in my room I listen to my Selah music on my Ipod and it made me think of the movie The Hiding Place. There was a scene in there where all the people in the concentration camp gathered and sang in total silence Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus. It was so moving and a powerful display of worship. I have thought of that so many times lately as I sing at the top of my lungs in absolute silence. This morning my heart was full and it was such a sweet time of worship. I was so tired but full of enthusiasm and excitement for the work that is ahead.

Why such excitement.....Last night I stayed at the hospital and was trained and worked at the helicopter pad where they bring the wounded in. Oh my...what an awesome experience. No sooner had they showed me how it all worked and four helo came in with wounded and to work I went. What precious cargo to lift out of the helicopters. They have it down and the process is amazing. During the four hours I was here eight helicopters came in. One that came in was a detainee! IT is amazing to me to watch the Medical staff slip into action. They are all about saving lives. Troops or detainees or insurgents or innocent Iraqi women and children all are cared for with the most incredible care and respect.

I saw a big area of need. On the helicopters were ambulatory and non ambulatory troops. Some have not been wounded but are sick and needing some kind of medical care. They bring them off the helicopters and they wait in a room that is about 15 by 12. It desperately needs a touch of love and medical staff would love that but need help. They desperately need a flat screen TV. What they have is old and small! I watched them eat the peppermint candy that was there so this evening I brought over the candy that Laurie sent me. They were thrilled. They would like two big bulletin boards. One for notes that people send from the States and the other for notes from the troops! The staff does over and above to try an make these troops comfortable. I loved so much being there and helping and hope to do so regularly. Until the center opens I will have a little more time and can help but I hope even after the center opens to be able to help at least one night a week. I plan to renew my CPR certification so I can help in other areas.

Well I have got to get to bed! It has been a long day and tomorrow I will be busy with United Through Reading will travel.

Thank you so much for your support! I love so much receiving your emails and hearing what is going on there. I may not email you right back but it is great to hear! I have a new found appreciation for emails, cards and care packages. It is just a touch of home. It really doesn't matter what they say or what is in the boxes it is that someone cares and loves and supports you. So never grow weary sending our troops cards and care packages. I guarantee it means the world to them. Donna you are doing a great thing with Defenders OF Freedom. You will probably not know this side of glory what a powerful impact you are having and the difference you are making. Press on my dear friend!

A friend gave me a card before I left Texas and it speaks my heart today. Too many of us live life thinking we are making no difference in this world. You may feel you are just one person in this world but keep doing what your heart is passionate about because you may be the world to just one person. I find that to be so true. Serve each other just one person at a time. I sat with a soldier today at breakfast and our lives could not have been any more different. He was so intrigued that I had been married 33 years and was happy about that. We had a great talk and when I left he said to me "thanks for being nice to me, most good people like you don't really want to talk to me." I will probably never see that young man again. He was headed out today for a different camp up north but I was so glad I had that few minutes with him and to let him know how proud I was of him and for his sacrifice to our country.

Again, I love each of you dearly and miss you so much!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Making Progress!

2007-10-07T16:11:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

It has been a busy couple of days! We have had Kevin and Charlotte from Dubai and Shari from Qatar here. We have met with many as we move forward getting this center up and running. I think we are very close to having a plan and action to follow! I can't wait!

Now for all you Poison fans...yes Bret Michael's was here! What fun it was watching the troops have SO much fun. We met him when he arrived here at the DV quarters and got pictures. The concert was great! Many of his songs and many just oldies that we love. The concert was in the theater and it was rockin. Nothing like watching the troops dance and rock out with their M16 strapped across their shoulder. They all really enjoyed themselves. They had the USO people come up front so I was right there in touching distance. We visited with this one married couple and were able to get them up front also. She was a huge fan and had made this big poster and everything. It was delightful to me to watch her husband work hard to get her the best seat in the house and how thrilled he was that she was having such a good time. About half way through I went back stage and stood on the stage where I could watch the troops. You all know me...I was just a crying as I watched them have so much fun! Just can't believe I am here! Standing there it was hard to believe there was a war going on right outside this area and thrilling to think these troops had a moment away from it all. A much needed thing for them.

IT has been overcast the past three days. I wasn't sure if it was overcast or so much dust in the air it looked overcast. At times there is so much dust in the air that it feels hard to breath. The temperature is dropping. Yesterday got only up to 95, which actually feels cool. The mornings and evenings are wonderful and so pleasant to be out in. We are stepping into a new season that I was not really aware started this soon. The Rainy season! Yes Rain! Picture that! It rained day before yesterday, not much but I understand it will pick up here soon. It rained only enough to stir the dust up more. Imagine that! The sand is so fine that it makes a paste and they say it goes everywhere and I will be dust it off of everything. Now that gets me excited!

I am getting to know some people that live around me which makes it so nice and certainly I feel much more at ease in my environment. Last night when I got back to the room the electricity was out and three of my neighbors were sitting outside. We sat out for quite a while until the electricity came back on. Two of my neighbors are interpreters at the hospital and they are fascinating. Noz has been here almost four years and has so many stories to tell. IT was interesting last night hearing what it was like in the beginning of the war. Mom, you would not have wanted me here then! There were not the fences and barriers that protect us now! HE said you could watch the bad guys. They didn't have the missiles and things that they have now but would through whatever they could at the troops and people here!

We have another walk through with the Air Force Engineers here in an hour and maybe after that we will have the answers we need and can start to move forward.

I am excited as I will start the United Through Reading this week even if I have to record they out of the back of my car. We should be able to do some here at the hospital and hopefully in several locations here on base. I will talk to some of the different commanders tomorrow and get that all going. Yeah.....time with the troops!

Well I need to go get ready for the next meeting! I love you all dearly and miss you so much!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

The Rest of Dubai

2007-10-03T20:46:00.000+03:00

Dear All,

The rest of my time in Dubai was busy, busy and full of new adventures. We worked all day Sunday and half of Monday at the USO in Dubai. That USO there was nothing I had ever seen before. It is out in the docking area in the bay and is kind of a big open area with all sorts of vendors and fast food places. The USO had a main office building, a phone building, a TV lounge/library building, Kasbar or Internet/Media/Gaming Building and a large laundry facility building. They all kind of open on to a large courtyard area that has a big awning with lots and lots of tables and chairs. When the ship come in they arrange with the USO to have all these things available to them. The ship also connect with a vendor and beer is sold also to the troops. (USO has no part of that)

On a normal time the troops come in and are there for a couple of days for R&R and the troops arrange through the USO tours and things like the sand safari that We went on. The can even arrange hotels if they want to stay in town. Because of Ramadan the city is close for all that. No eating, drinking, smoking,at all from sun up to sundown. Things like live entertainment and all sorts of other stuff are not permitted at all. There was a DJ [laying music and keeping the crowd going. So for this visit the troops were contained within the USO area....so picture 4,000 plus marines (that are heading home from there tour in Iraq) and Navy troops who have been out on these ships for months, all in this area letting their hair down. Of course you can imagine where they all went first. The beer area! By midnight you can just imagine the shape of the majority of the troops. Unbelievable!

We worked long and hard that day and were back at the USO by 8 the next morning. The troops had to be back on the ship by noon. The morning was much, much quieter. Lots doing laundry and buying souvenirs to take home. Many in the phone building. There are 100 cell phones for the troops to use! IT is quite an operation.

We have a little more training that afternoon then that evening were taken out to this wonderful hotel on the bay for a luau. A luau in Dubai....interesting! It was quite fun and fun for all of us to just let our hair done and enjoy. Many of the Dubai staff had their wife and babies and that was fun.

We were back at the hotel by 11 and I enjoyed my nice big bathtub one more time. Oh the things we miss being away from home. The next morning we did not have to be at the airport until 2:30 so we had the morning. There was a mini mall there in the hotel and I found a salon and got my hair cut. That felt great and who know how long it will be before I get that opportunity again.

We got back into Kuwait around 6 in the evening and Angela, myself, Kevin our VP of our region, Charlotte his assistant and Shari another staff personnel went to the PAX terminal to begin working on getting a flight back into Iraq. Angela and I were Space Blocked on a flight first thing in the morning. We were to report at o500. As it goes....we ended up staying there all night. We did go over to the USO for a little bit to do a few things but for the most part we were in the PAX terminal with all the other troops trying to get out. We ended up boarding our C130 at 8 am. IT was a good flight. My name was called before the ones with me so I sat with a unit of troops headed into Iraq for their third tour in since the war. They were so fun and it was a great ride in. I was able to give them phone cards, tell them about the USO and give them Defendersoffreedom.us information. I was able to get just a couple of pictures. They have to be taken very discretely. I am not sure is it is forbidden or permitted so I take with real caution and ask all around if they are okay with me taking it.

Back in Iraq, I knew I have come along way as I felt like I was coming home as I walked into my little room. We were exhausted after days of a busy full schedule and being up all night. We slept a couple hours them met for dinner. I came here to do a little emailing and will head to bed early. Oh by the way...the time here changed while we were gone. We don't know why and many don't even know. It is an hour earlier. I am now 8 hours ahead of you.

I had care packages and cards here in the mail when I got here and that was so fun. Thanks Laurie and Vicki and of course my Johnny, who has had a card for me in the mail almost everyday. I have them on my wall in my room.

I love you all and miss you greatly. This will be a big week getting things narrowed down for where exactly the center will be located here. Hopefully in the next couple of days we can really have a plan of action and maybe even a target date for opening. I can't wait. I the meantime I shake a lot of hands and thank a lot of troops and connect with them with whatever time I have. They are all so amazing and making such huge sacrifices for you and me!

Thank you for your support of our troops and for supporting me in this adventure!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Exciting Adventures in Dubai

2007-09-30T00:36:00.001+04:00

Dear All,
We didn't get out of Balad until Thursday. Our manifest time was 12:30 pm which didn't finish up until 2. Angela's husband was with her so right after manifest she took off to take him back to his side of base. She had no longer left and they called for us to take our luggage out to the pallets. I got both of our suitcases there and went in to the computer room there to sent and email. When I came back 15 minutes later all the people from our flight were gone. I asked and they said they had boarded the plane. They couldn't run me out to the plane because my flack jacket and helmet were in the car. I paced outside and Angela got there around 3:15. We ran in and they ran us out to the plane that was waiting for us. They took Angela up to sit with the pilots and I was put on the back of the plane with the luggage pallet up against my shoulder. Oh to be young and cute ..... and get to sit with the pilots.

There were some Iraqi workers on the flight and one got sick...that was a long hour and a half flight. Once in Kuwait we missed the bus to the airport by about 10 minutes so we had to wait a couple hours for the next one. That turned out to be fun for me. One I got to call Johnny (my cell phone works there) and John Micah and that was fun. But what where we waited was where the R&R troops are briefed, pick up there SATO itineraries and wait to board there plane. I wanted so bad to take the mic from the Sgt that was briefing them and tell that you all would be waiting for them to greet them in Dallas. I visited with one who was headed home for the birth of his fourth child. A little girl who has three older brothers. I loved seeing that whole process. It is unbelieveable what all the troops go through to get home. It is no easy task. I did go talk to the Commander of the unit who remembered me from Dallas. Great news....when i do take R&R I will be able to come on the R&R flight. That tickled me to pieces.

Our bus ride into Dubai was unreal WHEW!!!!! We had an escort car and I couldn't figure out why so once we arrived at the airport I asked the Sgt that brought us there. The escort car was our protection. In case of hijacking or anything they are armed. Well no one told me I needed to worry about that! All was good and I had a great visit with a Delta Force soldier on the way in. Fascinating!
We stayed in a hotel and left out with ten other USO staff people from the Kuwait USO early the next morning. That was a commeriacl flight and very nice at that. It is about and hour and a half flight from Kuwait to Dubai.

We checked in our hotel and I called Maureen's friend Melanie. Well I tried to call but coldn't figure out how to dial the number. Finally we met up and she took me all over Dubai sightseeing and shopping. She was absolutely wonderful. While I was with her Maureen called and the tears just started to flow. A voice from home. It was a great day and a touch of home being with someone who know Maureen. I just picked up food and ate in my room. I was tired.

Saturday we all met, probably about 30 USO staff people from all the Southwest Asia USO's and were in training all day. At four they took us out on a Sand Safari. What fun was that!!! Oh my goodness! There are six to a car and we went up and down the sand dunes. The car is sliding everywhere and spraying sand up like it were water. Fun, fun, fun! We stopped several times to take pictures! We did that for about 45 minutes then they took us to this secluded area for dinner. It was like a little vilage. I rode a camel! I am surprised you couldn't hear me squealing there! They also had sandboarding down the cliffs and four wheeling. Most of us got Henna tatoos! (Don't worry mom it wears off in about 10 days) There was a man there making these sand art in bottles. Incredible to watch. He did one for me with a camel and my name in it. The music was cranked up and they cooked our dinner out there. Because of Ramadon(and i am sure I spelled that wrong) we could not have live misic or belly dancers so I will have to come back to see that. All and all it was such a fun evening. I laughed and did and saw things I never dreamed in my life I would see. If was fun to just enjoy the USO staff and get to know them a little better.
I hope a have a minute before I leave here to download pictures and try to figure out how to put them on here.

I am excited about tomorrow. We are going early in the morning to the USO Dubai which is out on the wharf (I understand) to work. There are three ships coming in with close to 5,000 Marines. Now that excites me! They say we won't get back till very late so it may be Monday before I can write you about it. It should be so fun!
I have got to get to bed. I am exhausted. I love you all dearly and wish so much you could be here experiencing this with me!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Going On A Field Trip

2007-09-26T21:53:00.000+04:00

Dear All,

It has been a busy couple of days and many possible changes. At this point we are not real sure where the USO Center is going to be. We will continue to work on that and maybe by the time we get back from our little field trip we will have some answers.

We are headed to the airport here around 11:30 to see when we can get a flight out to Kuwait. The one they have us on right now makes three stops all over Iraq and we would rather not do that if we don't have to. Really don't want to see Iraq from the back of a C130. Hopefully they will have something else.

We will go from Kuwait to Dubai and will be there until the second. We won't know what to do in a fancy hotel with a bathroom in my room. It will be great to meet the rest of the Directors and Program Managers from all the South West Region. I am looking forward to the training.

AS for Balad. The weather in the mornings and evenings is wonderful. I don't have my temperature gage thing up yet but I would say it is in the mid 80's and then jumps up over hundred in the afternoons. It is so dusty that it is unbelievable. I was over at the IT building and saw them open up the side of a computer and sand just fell out of it. It is a very fine powdery sand. Everything is covered with it. All the trees and buildings and cars...everything is covered with sand.

We had a meeting with the Mayor of Balad Monday. He was funny. There are signs everywhere that said don't do this or that by the order of the mayor. He was funny pointing those out as he did exactly what the signs said not to do. He is helping us look for the appropriate building for the USO Center. He is also trying to get us wet trailers. Wouldn't that be cool....a bathroom in my room shared with the person next door. Who would think I would think that as a luxury!

I do not have Internet in my room and probably won't as it is $3000 for the dish and $500 a month to maintain it. That is a little out of my price range. I can't hook my laptop up here at the hospital as these are military lines and I did not have my computer imagined. They say it is not good to do that so that has made it a little hard to communicate. I did finely get to download my pictures and am going to try and add some on here tonight. We shall see. Well I just tried and it appears that I can't do it from these computers. I should be able to email from my computer in Dubai and will add pictures then.

I am doing to get to work one day in Dubai at the USO, which is the USO that Maureen Foley worked at for a long time. I am also going to get to met her friend Melanie. I am excited about that. Almost feels like family!

Well no big news just another day with troops, troops, troops! I love it and love this opportunity to serve our heroes.

I love each of you and miss you greatly.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Moving Forward

2007-09-23T21:15:00.000+04:00

Dear all,

IT has been busy with our USO people here. We have gone from one meeting to the next brain storming this that and the other and working hard to finalize our plans and begin to get this center up and running. We will have a United Through Reading Program and we will need books, books, books! I am thrilled. Sherri, I NEED you!

Balad is like a little city. Picture a rectangle that is about 4 miles by five miles. All around the preimeter is a tall, tall chain link fence with the big round sharp wire around the top. I never leave the interior area of the base. I will never see out side the walls or wire. It is like a little city. The car rental place and airport where I picked our USO people up is all right here within the wires. For the most part all the streets at paved. It is very hard to figure out what is what as all the building have ten to twelve foot concrete barriers around them. They are about six feet away from the buildings. The openings are covered by another overlapping barrier they comes out another four feet. So kind of piture a bit of a maze to get to any building. No big signs announcing what the building is and very little lighting at night. Safety you know!

Okay every one, I am sitting here writing you and the gentleman next to me is on the computer on the phone talking to his daughter. He is talking to his little princess and I am crying like a baby. It is so precious! The sacrifices our troops are making is amazing and I can't thank them enough. This conversation I am hearing makes be so proud of our troops and proud of their families at home that support them.

Back to Balad. We are in trailers. Each trailer is divided into three rooms. Some have two to a room and some just one. I am fortunate to have one to myself. I am slowly meeting my neighbors and they all seem very nice. Everyones hours are different so you rarely see anybody. Women are not to be alone outside after dark without an escort. Hence the slop bucket. It is even un-nerving to open your door at night as the doors open to the outside and so you can't just crack the door and look out, the whole thing has to be opened in order to see. For me, if they don't identify them self, I don't open. There is a porta potty right outside the maze of my trailer but I don't do there either after dark. I admit it I am chicken, to go out after dark to get to the porta potty and go through the maze is a little scary for me. And I am not a big fan of porta potties anyway!

Lt Ramirez is incharge of the heliopad and has invited me to come and spend some time out there. I can't wait! That is where they bring in the wounded and also where they out process the troops that they are transfering either back home or to there units after being here in the hospital. He says there is a big, big need for assistant there and he would love the USO to be a part. You can just imagine how much I want to help there. Those wounded troops coming in need a mother and certainly the ones going back out need a mother to love up on them.

One more thing...girls you will hate me but I did not get Hard Body pictures. Being a judge was way more serious and important than I thought or knew about. I mean I had to learn the poses and count how many they did and there was not time for pictures. After is was over they all took off and I didn't get a one. They are having another in December and I will plan on getting pictures then.

I love you and miss you and appreciate so much your support.
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Quiet Day

2007-09-21T20:48:00.000+04:00

Dear all,

It was a quieter day here. We did some errands and worked here at the hospital doing just some general cleaning and assessing. We did drive to the east side of the base to the MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation). They have the gyms and stuff like that for the troops. We work very hand and hand with them. In fact, they are having a Hard Body competition tomorrow night and Angela and I are judges for the event. The man in charge ask if I knew anything about hard body competitions and I told him that I knew the difference between a hard body and a soft body and he said that was perfect you got the job. Won't that look nice on my resume.

Our supervision and his boss are coming in tonight and we are thrilled. It was very last minute and it will be good to have them here to talk through some center decisions and issues. They don't get in until 1:45 in the morning. Angela and I will go together to pick them up. Anything after dark we do in pairs.

Oh by the way, for those of you who heard that the bathrooms might be co-ed, they are not! Now the first night I went down to shower and got all ready and decide to go to the toilet first and could not find the toilets....they are in a different trailer next door. You really have to plan ahead to take care of all those bodily functions out here. Never fear, my mom wins on the first care package here and guess what she sent me....a slop bucket so I won't leave my room at night! I love you mom and thank you. You are always so creative!

Yesterday morning I counted my steps to the bathrooms. It is 487 steps to the bathroom and that is not on a nice side walk but rather gravel and sand and big holes here and there. Many have ask about the food.....hmmmm!!!!! much different than I am use to. Very starchy, or fried and certainly not seasoned like I like home. I am craving a simple good grilled piece of chicken and a good salad. They do have a salad bar but then there is this packaged dressing to put on it....hmm!!! This is one trip that it won't be about the food!

Well, I have to run. Going to try and get a little sleep before going to the airport to pick up my boss.

I love you all dearly and appreciate so much your support.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Changing of Command

2007-09-20T19:57:00.000+04:00

Dear All,

Another amazing day here! We ran some errands this morning, rented a car and met up with Angela's husband. We had a meeting with a Col who is going to be a hug help to us! He is trying to set up another meeting with several significant people here to help us get things going.

We have a meeting in the morning early with the staff here to get a better feel for what their expectations are for us. This will not be in any way shape or form a traditional USO. We are trying to figure out what we need to do and how to best expedite that.

This afternoon while Angela spent some time with he husband I came back to the hospital to work a little bit. I was returning some email and they announced over the intercom that the bus was leaving to take those who wanted to go and see the "Changing of Command" ceremony. I thought why not so I picked up my stuff and headed on out. It was out in this hanger name Tuskegee Army Airfield. This was the changing of command for the Tuskegee airman 332nd Expeditionary Medical Group Squadron. They started with a welcome then the National Anthem and I started crying and did not stop through the whole thing. It was just so special being there and witnessing and hearing the stories of what these troops had experienced in the past five months. They have had a 98% survival rate. I got to meet and talk to the General Fields and many of his staff. That is who we are working with at the hospital. Once again I was just so proud and honored to be there and be apart of honoring those who are giving so much!

I don't have my computer....it is over at the Information Technology lab being imagined and made ready for me to use on base. Security you know! Hopefully I will get it tomorrow and can download the pictures I have taken and start posting them on here for you.

Tomorrow we will begin to start the makeover of the space we have here and sketch out what we need and want. Our first task will be to find furniture and a way to get it here. We are looking for comfortable chairs/recliner type and sofas. We are going to have built dividers for the computers and booths for the phones.

Time to get this done.
I love you all and thank you for your support.

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Balad, Iraq

2007-09-19T21:50:00.000+04:00

Dear All,

Hard to believe that I am in Balad, Iraq. What an adventure getting here. We started at 4:00 am Monday morning trying to get a flight out to here. We got bumped from the one we were blocked on. We were bumped from all the flights that day. Long day sitting in a big room with a couple hundred other soldiers and contractor who were trying to do the same as us. Some were coming back from R&R and others were units going over for the first time. At one point a young man came up to me and said "I see you got the job in Iraq" he had been through on R&R back in June and had talked to me in my office. That was fun.

We finally got a flight out on Tuesday at 1500. What an adventure that was. We had to meet for a briefing and have all our gear. Of course we had lots of gear as we were going for a full year and it was our first time. So picture me, two BIG suitcases, one carry-on size suitcase, a big back pack, my flack jacket and helmet and it was 112 degrees.

We meet Col Russ who befriended us and helped us get our jacket and helmets on right and made sure they were tighten right. He coached us through the process and I will be forever grateful for his help and encouragement. They marched us out to where we put our bags on pallets and then packed us on buses. The buses have curtain so you can't see out and no one see in. Security!!!! We drove out to the air field. As we pulled up and got off the bus I see troops coming out of the back of a C1-30. As soon as they were off we all marched on. It was everything and more that I could imagine. We are in rows length wise. No windows except for a couple rounds ones that were up real high. Fortunately we were not full so we did not have to be side by side crammed in there. We strapped in and put our ear plugs in and fairly quickly the big huge ramp or the rear part of the plane closed shut. The take off was quick and straight up it seemed like. There was no talking our visiting as you could not hear. The first half of the flight I was so hot that I felt light headed and then it colded off and I froze the last half. It only took and hour and fifteen minutes to get to Balad. Landing.....WOW! We took a hard right then a real had left and whoosh straight down and landed. It was incredible. I was afraid I would get sick but not at all. All I could think about was the hundreds of thousand of troops who have done the same and landed not knowing what they would face or what was ahead of them. I wondered what John Micah was thinking when he landed at his final destination three years ago.

As quickly as they got us on we got off and went inside a big building. We had to watch a briefing on safety there on Balad. It taught us all the different alert sounds and what to do when we hear them. Mr Kelly met us there and helped us with our bags and took us to our sleeping quarters for the night. He then drove us all over to see the base and took us to the hospital where we got our first glimpse of what will eventually be the first USO in Iraq. We have lots to do!

Today we went strong all day. First to the hospital to meet our points of contact there. While I was there a young man named Willowsbe came by and said he came to tell me hi.He was a friend of Mary Margaret from Meet and Greet. That was great. We then got a tour of the hospital even into the OR where we saw a surgery going on. My heart was about to beat out of my chest. We then went to get our housing which is very much like the pictures I had and not a football field away from the bathrooms...but TWO football fields away. I have decide not to bath as by the time I do and get back to my room I will already be dirty again.

We drove around to the other side of the base. The road goes along the fence and at one point right there in eye shot we could see two helicopters involved in a fired fight with something or someone on the ground. So hard to believe a war was happening right outside this fence. At first I thought it was just the reflection coming off the helicopter but then figured out it was gun fire. We knew it was far enough away that there was absolutely no fear for us.

It is so sobering being here at the the hospital. Twice since I have been typing this they called for Emergency room backup and people to the helo pad. I could hardly stand not going back to help as I can hear the helicopters coming in and knowing possibly there were some of our wounded troops on board. I will be able to go to the patient ward and visit with troops and will start doing that when we are settled in.

I can't begin to tell you what we need at this point but will let you know as we figure it out. Thank you for supporting me and these troops.

I love you all,
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Kuwait

2007-09-16T22:50:00.000+04:00

Hi All,

What a busy day! I got to see three of the four military bases here in Kuwait. Hard to imagine my son was here a few years ago. It was a marathon doing everything that needed to be done. I am now the proud holder of a military ID, a lovely flack jacket and helmet and a slight sun burn on the top of my feet!

We were fortunate as the temperature here was down from the usual to .. 113.... There was a slight breeze so it really wasn't that bad. It was fascinating seeing everything. The military bases were colorless and bland but full of troops! Hard for me not to want to greet and thank each one of them. It also made me think of all those family and friends who were at home wondering and worrying about there soldier.

We leave out early in the morning to go in country and possibly won't have computer access for a couple days!

Hopefully when I get set up there I will be able to download my pictures for you!

Thank you for your support and love and keep greeting our troops it means the world to them!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Germany

2007-09-15T11:43:00.001+04:00

Hi All,

I arrived in Germany. The sendoff in Dallas was overwhelming. Saying goodbye hard but the encouragement and support amazing. As we left the pilot announced that there was a special farewell for Linda Robinson...about that time I looked out the window to see the shower of affection. Tears just would not quit flowing. The people around had no idea what it was but I was so touched by such love and affection. Thank you Dallas for your love to me.

The flight went well. We ate then I wrote for a little bit then laid down across me four seats and slept well for five hours. They served us breakfast and by then it was landing time.

I navigated the Frankfurt Airport easily and am now waiting to meet up with Angela.

All is well and I am a wide eyed wonder taking every little thing in.

Again thank you for supporting and loving me.

The Night Before

2007-09-14T07:42:00.000+04:00

Dear all,

The past couple of weeks have been fast and furious as I pulled things together to leave. I am not sure I am ready but tomorrow at 3:30 I will board a plane to Frankfurt Germany whether I am ready or not. Winter things have been shipped and my bags are basically packed.

In Germany I will meet up with my co-worker and we will board another flight into Kuwait. We will spend 24 to 48 hours in Kuwait doing some briefings and getting our military ID's. Once those things are accomplihed we will board a military flight into Balad, Iraq or Camp Anaconda.

I will try to update this blog as often as I can but it may take a couple of days once we are in country to establish our emial and things like that!

Thank you for your support and encouragement!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

The Journey begins early!

2007-08-24T08:52:00.000+04:00

Dear all,

This Tuesday after a series of emails with our Regional Director that is in Iraq right now finalizing center plans and Angela the girl I will be working with in Iraq, it was decided that we should move our time up. As of now I will be leaving Friday, September 14. I will fly to Frankfurt, Germany where I will meet up with Angela and we will fly together into Kuwait. Our Regional Director will be there to pick us up. I am not sure at this point how long we will be in Kuwait before departing to Iraq.

So now it is the eleventh hour and I must move fast to prepare myself to go. I will keep you posted.

Thanks for your support and encouagement!
In His Mighty Grip,
Linda

Let the Journey Begin

2007-08-13T01:55:00.000+04:00

Dear All,

I wanted to write and catch many of you up on the Robinson family!

Johnny continues working at World Wide Flight Services and stays very busy there. He remains in Bible Study Fellowship where the last two years he has served as a Children’s Leader. How fun it has been walking through lesson preparations, story times, getting the story down at an age appropriate level…and endless other challenges as he serves with second graders this year. He has been asked to serve this next year as the Assistant Teaching Leader and it is exciting to see how God has prepared him for that new area of service.

Amy is still in California and is working for Pardee Homes. She does very well with that. She runs in 5k and 7k events and thoroughly enjoys preparing for those. She just completed her fifth year to run in Camp Pendleton’s Mud Run. She beat all her previous times and was thrilled with that.

Alyson lives in McKinney, Texas and works very hard on her little house. It is darling. She works for Fossil. She has an active life with puppy dog, Stella, and finds time to be a Big Sister in the Big Brother Big Sister organization. Alyson also joined Amy at the Mud Run in San Diego.

John Micah is in school at Texas Tech University. He owns a house there and had his ROTC buddies renting rooms all last year. He is still in the National Guard and remains focused on having a military career.

John Micah’s joining the army and deploying to Iraq for a year changed us all forever. It stretched our faith and strengthened our hearts in many new ways. For me it has given me a new love, ministry and passion to serve. During John Micah’s deployment I got involved at Dallas/Fort Worth airport with the Welcome Home a Hero program and also with the USO. The combination of the two was therapeutic for me while John Micah was away. Greeting the troops each day and serving them in the USO made the miles between here and Iraq seem much shorter and gave me a way to give and serve that connected me to John Micah.

For the past three years it has been my joy and honor to serve our military in this way. A year and a half ago I was hired by the USO at DFW airport to do their special events and projects. That has added even greater joy to my life and given me a way to further use my gifts and talents. I now stand with a new opportunity ahead of me that will once again stretch our family and cause us to seek God even more fervently.

I have accepted a job with the USO in Balad, Iraq to go and start the first USO there. I am so honored and proud to be a part of this undertaking. For those of you who don't know me well, going to Iraq to start the first USO has been a dream of mine for two years. Hard to imagine that it is really happening!

At this time I only have the bare details....but they are very exciting! I will leave on September 26th, 2007 with my first stop over in Dubai. I will meet the other two on the team and the Southwest Asia Regional Vice President. Our team of three will do some training there before going into Iraq. I don't know at this time when we will actually be going into Iraq but I will certainly keep you informed.

Our mission in Iraq is to open a USO and provide a place for the troops to come and relax and have a touch of home. The whole thought of doing this excites me beyond anything I can imagine.

I look forward to taking you with me on this journey via this blog! I hope to update it frequently. Thank you for all your support and encouragement and thank you for supporting our troops!

In His Mighty Grip,
Linda