Anyway, I'd like to welcome my good friends, Josh and Kim Schaub to the blogging world! Although only a few days old, their blog, Joshua and Kimberly's Journeys, is very exciting and I urge you to get to know them as I have. They're the greatest! I love you guys!
Well, Malu and his unit left from Fort Dix, NJ early this morning and have officially started their deployment. I'm not yet sure what the time difference is from here to there, but I expect they've touched ground somewhere over there, without any problems. I'll have to apologize in advance for some of the ambiguity that you will see when I put out any updates on him. It's an operational security type of thing, hence I can't give away any pertinent locations, travel routes, etc. Just know that he's officially out there somewhere and I ask that you keep him in your prayers!
You should also know to be proud of the fact that he is serving the country in this capacity. Those of us who know Malu know very well that he is the type of Soldier that you would want to entrust your freedom to at this time of war. He is the most capable and dedicated Non-commissioned Officer that I know and he has a genuine concern for Soldiers and for our Army's mission. I cannot understate the importance of his job. He works in Psychological Operations and will be engaging directly with the Iraqi people on a daily basis (which, of course, makes me extremely nervous). So again, please keep him in your thoughts and in your prayers. I'll be emailing (anyone who is interested) his mailing address as soon as I get it. He and his unit would appreciate an occasional package or letter!
Before he left this morning, he called to say goodbye and needless to say, I was a wreck. I hate showcasing my emotions like that, especially since worrying about me is the last thing he needs to do when ramping up for a deployment. But he understood and told me to pretend that he's going to be in NJ for a year, to get me away from thinking my morbid thoughts. Crazy guy. He also went on to tell me that no matter what happens and despite the obstacles we've faced together, I should always remember (and never doubt)how much he loved me and that he has since the moment we met. This picture was taken years ago in Iraq, where we met. One of the things I hate about this deployment is that I'm not going to be there with him. The day the picture was taken, we were waiting for a Blackhawk to take us to Baghdad. We had so much fun. I'll never forget that day, or all other days like it--good or bad. I miss my best friend, my sweet love. I wish you God speed in all your travels always!
Okay, gotta get ready for class! Until next time...
