6 Months Down

Sorry I haven't written in a while. I've been extremely busy, just returning from R&R, moved from one COP to another...

Counted down the days to R&R, couldn't wait to get out of COP Herrera. Not that the COP was bad, just didn't want to be in-country any more.

Started having really bad dreams about war, being shot at or surprised by enemies and not having my weapon. Kinda crazy. Didn't really expect that to happen. Something about sitting quietly reading a book or playing a game and being surprised by an explosion nearby and having to don all your equipment and head to a bunker (or aid-station, in my case)

Anyway... I've been on over 100 missions (probably closer to 140) while at COP Herrera; didn't really keep count tho I've started to here in Zormat. I was the medic for two squads so while one squad went out, the other stayed behind... every mission HAS to have a medic.

R&R was amazing! I couldn't wait to get home. The system the Army uses for flying soldiers out leaves much to be desired. There's so much to do and so much waiting around, the process is awful. But when you get home it's all worth it. My wife and kids treated my like a king and I was so happy to be home. I was a little jumpy at home. Kept hearing loud noises and that would freak me out. You get used to it downrange and you grab your rifle and gear but at home, my family is there, and they don't have a rifle and gear. Garbage trucks, nearby ranges, car doors slamming... all freaked me out.

Christmas came and went. Many of the soldiers got really grouchy or severely depressed. Especially the single ones. I tried to make the most of it but it was a really difficult and emotional day. Thanks to Skype, I was able to see my family in Germany open their gifts. Now I look forward to new year.

Which brings me to my resolution. Not really a resolution, but more a determination. I lost a total of more than 20 pounds while at COP Herrera without really trying. Managed to gain 7 back while I was on leave. So, my "determination" is to, this time, not just loose, but to tone. Which, for me, means hitting the gym, some weights and constant workout routine. Now that I've got internet, I've chosen the workouts I want to do, thanks to MenHealth.com, and will begin these workouts after the new year.

Mostly, I'm doing this for myself. I want to feel good about myself. But also I'm doing it for my lovely lady back home, who treated me so good, and is working incredibly hard raising 4 children by herself (3 of which aren't even her own biologically). I often think her job is WAY harder than mine and her stresses are WAY more than mine. Regardless of which is true, she deserves to have a man that looks amazing without a shirt. You'd be amazed at what small thing like that means to someone. Sooooooooo. I'll let you know how that goes.

Anyway. Putting my nose back to the grind stone and thanks again to the internet, I'm able to keep my skills sharp so when/if someone gets hurt, they'll get top-notch treatment.