Going Dark

It will be a different time for us as Skyler and his battle buddies start their OSUT Infantry training.  They will spend several nights out on tactical training.  And then conclude their training with a 5 day, 4 night exercise that will encompass all that they have learned.  Ending with a 12 mile ruck march into Honor Hill at mid-night.   Bravo 2-54, Going Dark.  God speed, boys!

Final Day Before Graduation

Our final moments before we have to say "goodbye" until his graduation.  That date is December 20 so we have another four weeks where we will have very little contact.    

We were honored to spend the day with him and his fellow platoon soldiers, Caberra and Church.  Mom got to give Skyler and his battle buddies a mandated hair cut.  Skyler enjoyed touching base with friends back home as well.

Sunset over Ft. Benning

You are never quiet prepared for the emotions that flood in when you say goodbye to your children for any length of time.  But especially when you know there will be no contact for a while.  Mom and Bella went up to the room for showers but I went for a walk to pray, think and watch the sun set over Ft. Benning.  There are no words - I won't try.  I walked a hole in the pavement between our hotel and the Infantry Museum down the street.  My heart is full of pride but encased in heaviness.

Infantry Museum

We started our day together at the Infantry Museum  - nothing like getting that tour from your very own Infantry Soldier.

Dining with Our Soldier

My, how we loved spending another day with our soldier.  Concluded the day with a nice dinner where the staff helped us acknowledge Deborah's birthday.  Not a better gift than getting to see her boy.

Turning Blue Ceremony

What a sight for sore eyes......it has been 13 weeks since we have laid eyes on our boy.  So happy to see him and to watch him become an official Soldier in the Turning Green Ceremony.

Standing Strong, Standing Tall

Proud of these men.

First Up, Waffle House

After the ceremony, it was hugs, questions, hugs, questions.  But what he wanted most was Waffle House.  Our favorite soldier enjoyed the All-Star breakfast  - a favorite of his that I think he enjoyed more than ever.

Fort Benning

Welcome to Fort Benning!  Can't wait to see our soldier tomorrow, watch him receive his Soldier designation in the Turning Green Ceremony and get to spend three days with him. Won't sleep a wink tonight.

Chapmans' Retreat Chorus

So proud of the chorus and especially my song bird, for their performance at the Veterans Day Assembly this morning.  They have worked hard and hit showed.

Riley Shenanigans

Bella n Chaz Reunited

These two were happy to see each other.

Army Up

And the training continues.

Official Army Picture

Look what came in the mail today!   So blessed to get this picture of our favorite soldier.  Only 12 days til we get to see him.

Pooool Sharks

When your BFF's family gets a pool table.

Celebrating Nana at 70

Are we allowed to publish an age?  Not sure but since I have editorial control.... a wonderful Sunday brunch at Sperry's to celebrate Nana's big day.  And of course,  Banana's Foster for dessert.

Pottery Painting with BFF

That's a great Saturday night!

Nap Time

Isabella didn't feel well today.  I found her napping on her floor with her weighted blanket.  Precious Girl.