Ahhh!! I'm so nervous...no wait, excited...no wait, anxious!! Ahh! I'm all of that wrapped into one! There's been some great, great news and I think you know what I'm talking about! Can I get an amen?!
It's been one heckuva year, but I'm glad to start to close this chapter and prepare to write the next!! Lotsa new things will be happening when our man rides into town compliments of an airplane packed fulla sweaty dudes. Not quite the white stead or shiny armor that a traditional fairytale begs (more like camo and afghan dirt), but hey, it's the 2000's, right?! Not everyone's fairytale involves a strapping young lad perched high upon the saddle of a great white horse! ;) I'll take him how I can get 'im, dirt & all!
Well, I believe I've rambled enough! I hope you were informed but mostly entertained! Have a great day and rest of the week! I know I will!! Countdown continues! We're all waiting...anxisouly!
Today is the 11th anniversary of Matt being deployed. It feels weird to type that, but it feels even weirder (weirder…more weird?? Weirder, I looked it up! J) to say it! I remember the days and months when he first left; wishing, hoping, begging and praying that they would fly by and return my mister back to me safely! I think I’m more nervous and anxious now than I was when he left! J Is that possible?!
This quote reminds me of what Matt told me before he left and I have focused on this every.single.day.
Getting through this hurdle meant that we could move on with our lives. I love that he focused on the positive of, let’s face it, a crappy situation! But the end will so much be worth it!
I wait anxiously everyday for that phone call from the Army saying that he will be on a plane within 72 hours! That will be a very happy day and it is VERY SOON to happen! When I get the call, I will not be able to post on here or Facebook. We have to be sure that our men are safe and that precaution lies in not publishing the OPSEC information anywhere that terrorists can access it! I will send the closest family members (Donna and Andy) text messages and they can relay the info to you all.
VERY IMPORTANT: when you get the info that Matt is on his way, please DO NOT post it on FACEBOOK, or any other social media outlet. Let’s do our part to ensure their safety!
Over the next two weeks, please keep Matt in your prayers as he begins his long awaited journey home! Let’s pray for speed, but mostly for safety! Can't wait for this moment: :)
And yes, I will be THAT crazy excited!
Thank you all for hanging in there and keepin me company! Couldn't have asked for anyone better in the passenger seat! If I could reach across the states and give you all hugs, I would! Mostly, thank you for being there for Matt! It has meant so much to him and to me! We are truly blessed!
Check back often; once he's home, I'll let ya know on here! {If you don't already hear me screaming with excitement all the way from Clarksville!}
In just 4 short days we will officially be in THE LAST MONTH OF DEPLOYMENT! It felt like it was never going to get here, but sure enough, with a little bit of time, it’s coming!
I got to talk to Matt the other day and he sounds like he is more than ready to be home! I would imagine so after almost 11 months of being there! He is back at Tillman now and they have officially closed Munoz! I think he was sooo ready to be done with that place! They were back to primitive living like when they first got there- no water to bathe, only MRE’s…you get the picture!
Here’s a picture that someone posted on Facebook of Matt and all the guys! Can you spot Matt?
I’ve gotta run…busy, busy, busy getting ready for him to come home! Stay tuned for more info regarding his homecoming!
P.S. this girl will be making an appearance in good ‘ole Illinois for the Fourth of July festivities at Uncle Drew and Amanda’s! Hope to see you there!
Early this morning I was awoken by the stark ringing of the phone. As I felt around in the dark room, following the light to my phone, the name 'Amanda' shown on my cell phone. "Oh no" I kept uttering over and over again subconsciously. I only hoped that it wouldn't be what I thought. Amanda's soft voice quivered as she delivered the bad news. Matt flashed across my mind. How was I supposed to tell him this? He had hoped to be able to see him right when he got back. Immediately I put in a Red Cross message (the second one in about a 6 hour period of time) delivering the bad news with the hopes that I could subliminally ask Matt to call me so I could deliver the news a little gentler.
I lay back down, but my brain wouldn't stop.
3:30am: Phone rings and this time it's Matt. I answer, trying not to sound sleepy so he doesn't feel bad about calling so late. He had received the first Red Cross message, but not the second. I had to break the news to him and I felt so bad because he is 7400 miles across the world and I'm sure he feels so helpless. Unfortunately, they wouldn't let him come home.
It's difficult to provide comfort in an instance like this, over the phone. What do you say? I simply reminded him that he was given the privilege to visit with Grandpa Freddie before he left for deployment. It was an amazing visit. I would say that it is my fondest memory. I remember that Grandpa Freddie was sitting outside by himself when we walked up. We talked with him about everyday things and he wished Matt well, begging him with tears in his eyes to do all he could to come home alright. He said he was proud of Matt. Not a dry eye in the house! I loved his advice for Matt about love: 'Always hold your wife's hand in the parking lot, open the door for her, tell her she is beautiful-everyday, and occasionally pat her on the butt and tell her you love her.' I loved the way he stated that - so blunt, but so true. He was a lover and I love that he passed that advice down! You bet Matt follows each of those and he learned it from the best! I remember as we walked to the truck, hand in hand, Matt said, "That might have been my last visit with him, but it was a great one!" Bittersweet describes it well. Bittersweet.
This photo was taken that day. They both really do look very happy! I'm glad I got to share this moment!
Thank you, Grandpa Freddie, for teaching my mister the ways of love! Thank you for making such an impact on him and for being such a strong role model! I hope you are resting in heaven in the front seat of your favorite classic car, feet kicked up on the dash, bucket of popcorn, watching down on the lives of your loved ones playing like your favorite drive-in movie. You will be missed, but never forgotten! We love you.
To all of his children, family and friends, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I know he was a great man and he will be missed. I hope you can find strength in the happy memories that each of you have shared with him. Let that provide you some comfort. Time will heal your pain. Big hugs to each of you!
Tia: Is anyone there?? (cricket, cricket) hmm... maybe they think I forgot about 'em!?
I apologize for the delay in correspondence! I have been busy catching up on my double life! ;)
Of course I’m kidding! I’m back to my busy, busy work! Being off for 2 weeks was worth it, but now I have stacks of work to catch up on!
I had an epiphany yesterday when someone told me the date….JUNE 1!!!!! Now, we can say, Matt will home next month! Oh how that makes me so happy! Those sad lonely days are now a thing of the past because now and I have a new focus…the end is near…in a good way! ;)
Matt and I had an amazing visit while he was home on his R&R! Things he did a lot of: eating, sleeping, playing guitar and surfing craigslist! Oh, and a lot of cuddling with his honey! JHe came to me skinny and left with tight fitting pants! MISSION COMPLETE! Operation ‘Fatten up Matt” was a success!
I snapped this photo slyly...
When his mom asked him what he wanted to do most he said, “Come home and play house with Tia”. Maybe I shouldn’t have exposed his raw emotion, but I thought it was such a sweet gesture, I just had to share! Just melts a girls heart!
While he was home, we took a trip to Nashville. He wanted to check out Guitar Center and I had other things on the agenda, like, looking at furniture for instance… Matt had just a couch in the living room and it really wasn’t enough furniture to seat more than 2 comfortably, so he picked up a really nice leather furniture set from a store in Nashville. It really helps to make it look ‘homey’!
Matt modeling the new furniture! Passed the sleeping test! ;)
This is one of him being silly, but it makes me smile!
Alas, the 2 weeks came to an end and I had to send him off on a jet plane. Can’t help but think of this song whenever he leaves…
Only difference is that I KNOW when he will be home, sort of… he informed us that his redeployment date (back to the states) was going to be a whole month early!! HOLD THE PHONE…did he say ONE month?! What could my wondering ears be hearing! I just got to talk to him the other day and he said that the date has since changed, no surprise. I’ve learned not to hold my breath, but rather to EXPECT change! So, for now, the date will be sometime at the end of July. Still not holding my breath! However, early is early and I’ll take it!!
He is back at Tillman, for now. There were talks of sending him to Munoz, but when I spoke to him yesterday, he hadn’t left for it yet.
One important note: The last day to mail anything to Matt is July 1. So, if there’s anything you want to send to him, do it before then. I asked him if he needed anything and he said no, not really. Truth be told, if you mailed him some magazines, I think he would read them! J I will be sending a package this month with some basic supplies: gum, starbursts, skittles, kit kat… You know, the essentials! ;)
Thank you all for listening, or reading rather, to the post! Our man is safe and well and ready to come back home! Keep Matt in your thoughts and prayers and hopefully in 7 weeks, we will be welcoming him back home for good!
While browsing the www for a pic of an "excited face" I found this fun lil picture tip:
Although, I am prolly making a face like the chick in the middle (just a little less scary...errr I hope), there's definitely no faking going on here! My excited face is true and genuine! Who knew a smile would be the mood boosting accessory of the year! :)
Will you join me, from now til Matt comes home, making as many happy/excited faces as we can!? I'll be sure to put one on when I head out...and everytime I think of my mister! If you have Facebook, try to post a smile/excited pic on Matt's Facebook in the next 2 weeks! Let's welcome him home with all of our SMILES!
I'm gonna leave you with one last smile quote:
If you smile when no one else is around, you really mean it. ~Andy Rooney
Have a fabulous day! I'll check back in with you all soon!
P.S. I got to talk to Matt yesterday and he is doing very well! The weather has been bad, but it's been bittersweet because he hasn't had to go out hiking or hunting! Hooray for crazy weather, I guess! :)
I hope you are all doing well!! We are marking off one more month as March gracefully exited stage right and April has made it's grand debut! I could not be happier at this gesture! :)
If you look to the right of the screen over there --------------------->
You will see the NEW R&R ticker to help us count down the days to Matt coming home! Yes, it will be a very short visit, but one in which he can..... Rest and Relax!
I got this email from the FRG leader last night and I wanted to share! First, I want to start out by sharing a pic of Matt and his Squad: (Matt is kneeling in front-middle)
Saturday, April 02, 2011
101st Pushes Deeper Harder to Root Out Enemy
Currahee, ANSF soldiers push forward through all obstacles
2-506th PIR <http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/home/2011/04/101st-deals-death-to-terrified-taliban.html> PAKTIKA PROVINCE, Afghanistan – During the early morning hours, as the U.S. Army soldiers were preparing for a patrol with their Afghan National Security Forces counterparts, they received a radio call that would give them the confidence boost needed for the mission ahead. “Seventeen enemy (killed in action),” squawked the voice on the other end of the radio.
The Task Force Currahee Soldiers from Company B, “Dog Company”, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, were tasked to clear an observation post in Gayan District, Paktika Province, near the Afghanistan-Pakistan Border, March 27 to 28.
Observation Post 4 looks like any other mountain top in the sprawling Afghan scenery, however this particular mountain top overlooks the border of Pakistan. Dog Company Soldiers and the ANSF have battled insurgents for the territory since TF Currahee occupied the territory in their previous deployment.
“Observation Post 4 is a key piece of terrain that overlooks the low ground between Afghanistan and Pakistan,” said U.S. Army Capt. Ed Churchill II, commander of Co. B, Dog Company, 2nd Bn., 506th Inf., TF Currahee, and native of Agusta, Maine.
The mission itself was difficult for the Soldiers, but the conditions made it even more challenging.
According to U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Adam Petrone, platoon sergeant of 3rd Platoon, Dog Co., and native of Coos Bay, Ore., the mission occurred in mountain terrain between 6,000 and 8,000 feet in elevation.
He said the Soldiers carried approximately 100 pounds of equipment. In addition to their body armor and weapons, they also carried an extra supply of food and water in case they stayed out longer than anticipated.
Carrying all that weight, traveling over 14 miles, up and down hills, sweating during the day and shivering at night, and not once ever complaining or showing any sign of quit, is quite impressive, said Petrone while talking about the Soldiers he is responsible for.
The Afghan National Army Soldiers, along with the Afghan Border Police stood shoulder to shoulder with their partners leading the way through the terrain.
“Having our ANSF partners with us is important, it shows that they want to take charge of the security of their country and care about the future of Afghanistan,” said Petrone.
As the soldiers neared their objective, they received small arms fire and rocket propelled grenade rounds from their destination, OP 4.
“The soldiers immediately and effectively began suppressing the enemy in the face of intense fire,” said Churchill. “The men of 3rd Plt. plus the (Head Quarters) element covered 600 meters of mountainous terrain, running down the side of a 50 degree hill, in order to support the element in contact. The Soldiers directed fire, ensured security and defeated the enemy ambush with tenacity and skill.”
Churchill spoke about how his Soldiers and ANSF counterparts repelled the attack even after two Soldiers sustained wounds.
“Every single Soldier, including the ANSF, moved to the sound of the guns, and closed with and destroyed the enemy,” said Churchill.
As soon as the fight started, it was over. The Soldiers evacuated the wounded, cross-loaded ammunition so everyone had an equal share of what remained, and everyone took a different piece of gear the wounded soldiers could no longer carry. Then, it was back to business.
“I am surrounded by dedicated professionals every day, with soldiers and leaders I respect and trust with my life,” said Churchill.
The soldiers made it to OP 4, spent the night taking turns between shivering in the cold and rain and sleeping in a sleeping bag on top of the rocky terrain.
At daybreak the soldiers packed their gear and returned to base. Before they departed they received word that both of the friendly casualties were in stable condition.
“I feel that we accomplished the mission of clearing men and caches out of the OP 4 area,” said Churchill. “The insurgents are coming to realize that they do not own OP 4 as an infiltration route, and that we will continue to exercise our freedom of maneuver and deny the enemy any freedom of maneuver in Gayan District. We are sending a very clear message to the insurgents, if you come to Gayan, we will destroy you.”
Hope you enjoyed reading that!! Enjoy the start of Spring!
I hope all is well with all of you! The past 2 weeks I have seen tiny signs of spring..FINALLY!!! The flower pots on my steps had beautiful flowers in bloom! What a pretty sneak peak of the season!
{This was from my recent trip to Myrtle Beach!}
I got to talk to Matt today! He has been at Tillman for a little bit so he hasn't had as much phone or computer time as he had hoped. Fear not, though, he called in to inform me that all is well with him. Actually, I think he says, "No news is good news." I tend to agree these days!! I love talking to the man, but I have to admit I get a little nervous inside when the phone rings!
So, it's just about 5 more weeks (or less) til he is state side for his R&R! He has had a change of plans, minorly. He wants to wait to have the big family visit until August, when he returns home for good. For now, since it's such a short period of time, he wants to keep it very simple by visiting with his mom and dad. I'm sorry if I got anyone's hopes up! However, I will more than make up for it when he returns for good!! Promise!
Thank you all for all your sweet thoughts, prayers and comments!! Matt has an amazing family! Ya, that's you!! Soo, put your hands out really wide, then wrap them around your body and squeeze!! That's a super big hug from me!! Love you all!!
One more pic from my Myrtle Beach trip:
{Thought about Matt while watching the sunrise. I wondered what he was doing that very moment! I sure do miss that guy!}
Holy macaroni, Batman!! Seven months down!! Whoo hoo!! I'm pretty sure you already know, but I'm doing a happy dance right now!!! Only 5 more to go...Just 5 more! I try to keep my mind set on the small goals...only 7 weeks/3 days until R&R!! Whoo hoo!
If you haven't already looked, check out the post below that has recent pics of Matt!! Oh, one more thing...Matt doesn't have any current needs or requests, but if you think of it, send him a card or letter in the mail!! He loves getting stuff from us, letting him know we are constantly thinking of him! Right now he is at FOB Tillman so if you need the address, send me an email and I will send it to you: tiaeharris@hotmail.com.
On a more serious note, I want to share with you all that on March 12 there was a casualty in Matt's company, but in a different platoon. I got to talk to Matt yesterday and he informed me that the platoon was on a seperate mission, it was instant and the soldier did not suffer. Matt did not know him personally, but it's always sad to hear of any loss. As we all are aware, there is a risk with putting your life on the line for your country and PFC Rodriguez did this very proudly. Please keep his family in your prayers as they grieve in their loss. Please continue to keep our soldier in your prayers as well! I pray every single day for his safe return to us!
I don't want to end on a somber note. For me, personally, these are reminders that we are not guaranteed tomorrow. It just makes me want to show Matt even more how much I love him, miss him, and appreciate his hard work and dedication to his country! I know that there is no doubt in his mind how much love and support he has from family and friends. He has you all to thank for that!
Talk to me, folks! If you have something to share, leave a comment below!
I got to chat with Matt tonight!! I love seeing that six digit number coming in on the caller ID! I tell ya, nothing excites me more these days!
"Nothing new with him", he says. When I talk to him, he's usually not very excited about the daily grind there. Who would be though, right?! Lots of manual labor that's usually pretty grueling! I love that he takes care of me even from there! He is always asking about things around the houses and cars. I'm having some minor heat issues in my car and that mister of mine gave me the lowdown on why I should take it to the dealership to have it checked out. I love that guy!
He is so so funny!! He tells me to make sure that I'm taking care of Bella. For those of you that do not know Bella, she is a tiny chihuahua that weighs maybe 5 lbs. A CHIHUAHUA for goodness sakes!! haha But Matt absolutely adores her!! When I would visit and bring her, I would have to remind him to say hello to me first!! Ya, I'm a bit jealous! ;) He loves her to pieces!
Photo evidence:
Ok the anticipation is killling me...here's some new pics of Matt!!! SURPRISE!!
I love that this one was titled 'I miss Tia and want to Go home!' :)
Look at this focus! I love this one!
Nice form, baby!!
Matt in action!
Motorcycle that a local let him drive...having some fun! What are the chances he'll want one when he gets home?? haha
Title says '1st Squad'
I hope you all enjoyed the pictures! It's always great to see our man!!
Hope you are all doing well after that awesome halftime show!! But, serisouly, we are down 12 more days!! Yippee!!
So I got to talk to Matt yesterday!! The connection was terrible, as it sometimes is, but we at least got to chat for a moment. Just hearing his voice can be so reassuring!! After his second attempt to make the phone lines cooperate, we finally gave it up and logged into Facebook. Thank God for Facebook. Wait...? Did I just say that?? :} But, really, it has enabled us to chat so much more often!! I guess I owe it to Facebook to see The Social Network. Have you all seen it yet??
We FINALLY have a not so definitive date for Matt's R&R. He will {hopefully} be home May 7!! I will be sending an email/blog post tomorrow about Matt's R&R schedule. Stay tuned!!
Today is a very special day! We have reached one long awaited milestone-We are officially halfway there!! Whoo hoo! Six months ago, our man set out on this journey and now it's finally 6 months down, only 6 more to go! I am so excited and astounded that we already have 6 months under our belt! Somedays it seems to have flown by, and others it seemed to have dragged on. However, today is a celebratory day because we are
HALFWAY THERE!!
In honor of this momentous occasion, I have looked high and low for an awesome half time show!! I chose Halfway There by Big Time Rush.
**Warning, the song is super cheesy, but it has good lyrics. What can you expect; it’s Nickelodeon! Let’s face it, the only other songs that even remotely resembled being half way there was by Rise Against (Matt’s crazy hard metal type music, notsomuch) or Black Eyed Peas – Meet me Halfway. Slim pickin’s, folks!
:)
Without further adieu, here it is! Half Time Show with Big Time Rush - Halfway There
Hope you all enjoyed the Half Time Show! Hang in there for another 6 more, that’s all! If it keeps the pace up, it will go by in a flasheesh! {I’m crossing my fingers so tight!} Thanks you all so so much for helping me to get through these last 6 months. I could not have done it without each and every one of you! Matt and I are very blessed to have such amazing, supportive families! I know I can always count on you! {BIG hugs}
*** Warning if you are alergic to all things lovey dovey, please cover your eyes, ears, and mind. It could get real mushy! ;)
Hello, Lovers!
Happy Valentine's Day! I want to send an extra special shout out to the man that inspired this blog and many other areas of my life! I wish we could be together today to celebrate our love, but you are always in my heart, always!! I think about you tons every single day, but especially today! I love you, Sweet ♥!
I did a Valentine countdown for Matt with photos and here's a compiled pic
{minus 1 since it would only allow 13}...
This project was so much fun! Each day I got to focus on a different way to show Matt that I love him. I found myself looking forward to 'tomorrow' so that I could capture it in a new way! Truth be told, I'm sad that the countdown is over! I rather enjoyed making the time go by quickly! To see more go to my flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tiachick/
Stay tuned...I will attempt to post the project that we did for Matt later today!
I got to chat with Matt on Facebook today! There’s nothing like hearing an actually voice, but if I only get to chat, then I’ll take that too! Beggars can’t be choosers! Yes, I’ll admit, I’d beg and plead just to talk to him! Does that make me sound desperate? Hmm… I’ll re-visit that later!
I feel like I am always telling you that he is doing well, but he really is! That’s no lie! He sounds great on the phone and he is very eager for May to be here so he can take leave! By the way, there is a *slight* possibility that his leave will be moved to the beginning of May, instead of the middle/end. Sorry, it’s just the way the Army works. Nothing is for sure until it’s for sure! It’s seriously a constant wait game. Haha just had to laugh at myself! I just sounded like a cynical pro that has been dealing with this all my life, when in all actuality; it’s just been a couple of years! I tell ya, though; I have picked up on a lot!
So…I’m so excited to unveil some new photos of our man!!! Yippee!
Yes, this is really snow!! Haha Matt is making, what seems to be an all familiar snow ball! I guess they are getting the same weather we are! I wonder if the snow helps them “hunt” easier…?
This one…well, I’m really not sure what’s going through Matt’s head. He does this crazy thing, when I would ask him to smile, he put on the biggest, cheesiest grin that he can muster up! I’m almost sure that this is the case in this picture! His buddy, James, took this one. It’s either that or Matt is just REALLY happy to see James. Who knows, either way, at least he’s smiling right??
Oh, I wanted to leave you with a sneak peak of Matt’s Valentine’s Day present…
This is the cover! Hopefully he gets this soooon!! Also, if you want to see my picture countdown to Valentine’s Day that I have been doing for him, go to flickr account here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tiachick/ I add pics daily so be sure to check back!
It’s already the FIRST of February! Can you believe it?! Me neither! J Well, it's t-minus 13 days til Valentine's Day! Are you already planning something special for your sweetie??
I got to talk to my LOVE yesterday! YAY! It had been quite a bit since our last chat...nearly 2 weeks! Much too long if you ask me! He had to go to one of their checkpoints for several days. They don’t have phone or internet connection there… L He is currently back at Tillman for the short time being. I guess they will be taking a hiking trip in a couple of days while making their way back to Munoz.
Matt said that yesterday he got a….huh…DAY OFF!! Hold the phone…shuuuut up! Did he say a DAY OFF! Did he mean, like, a day withOUT having to do work or hike the mountains up hill, both ways, in the snow, with no shoes…like, that kind of day off?? hmm..
Those do not exist when you are the property of the US Government! I mean, all work and no play makes a grown man cranky, but 24/7 is his sentence…I mean duty! J I was so very surprised that he got a MUCH needed/deserved day to rest and relax! He spent it watching a movie, taking a nap, playing guitar and, well, I guess there was a little paper work that was required. Other than that, our man is doing gaaareat!
I have to say a special thanks to you all for, once again, helping me out with a project for our man!! It turned out so good!! I cannot wait to show it to you all!! I have scanned images, but I am working on decreasing the file size (59MB wowza folks!) so I can put it on here for you all to see the generous fruits of our labor!! The package was sent off today!!! Yay!! Thank you all for your help!! I hope Matt knows how loved he is!!
I hope all is well with everyone! Hopefully the storm that came through today wasn't too rough on you all!
It's been a little bit since my last update. This is simply because there's not been much going on! I have to give a quick shout out session to the crazy weather we've been entertaining in the south. Over a week ago we were dumped on with some crazy snow; the second time this winter!! See, the thing is in the south, we do this really well...
...but notsomuch this
We have hills and mountains and they just don't agree with this crazy cold bout that's been hanging around! The snow is beautiful, but the ice that comes along with it, notsomuch!! We are forecasted to be getting more of the white fluffy stuff, but I'm crossing my fingers (and toes!) that it misses us!!
I got some ear time with Matt a couple of days ago. He has made it back to Munoz safely! He said that they have just been sitting around since they cannot go out when the air is not clear. This is because they have to be sure that they have air support (helicopters) in case they need to be called in. The helictopers cannot fly if the air is not clear! Other than that, he is doing well.
When asked what he "needs", he stated that they have quite the stock pile of goodies left over from Christmas, some still from Halloween. For now, if you are interested in sending anything, he has only requested magazines, guitar magazines to be specific. Other than that, he loves to read so if you have any books that you want to send him I'm sure he will get some reading time in! If you don't mind, do me a favor before sending a package and shoot me an email or FB message so that I know not to send him anything that same week!
Here's his address again in case you need it:
SGT Heisel, Matthew
Bravo (DOG) Co. 2-506th
4101 BCT White Currahee
COP Munoz APO AE 09311
Thanks to you all for being super cool supporters!! I hope the beginning of 2011 is treating you all well!! Until next time!
Heisel RULES!!
P.S. VERY IMPORTANT! I have emailed you all a time senstive email regarding something that I am putting together for the man! Please take just a moment to check that out and email me if you have any questions! Thanks!!
I wanted to give everyone a quick update since its been a bit since he's called or messaged me! I got to chat with Matt on Facebook! He had been trying to call for a couple of days, but the phones were either out or they had really bad service! That happens quite a bit there! He is doing very well though! Nothing new to report, but as the saying goes, 'No news is good news!' In this case, I couldn't agree more! I hope he didn't get too used to the 'lavish' life at Tillman! He was supposed to have headed back to Munoz already, but got held up. Very typical of the Army! Lets all hurry up and WAIT! Gotta love it!
I hope you all have had a very good first week of the New Year! One week from today marks 5 months that Matt has been gone!! Can you even believe that we are nearing the halfway mark?!
Dear Father Time: Thank you for not taking your time in the last 5 months!! I really appreciate you just flying right on by! BUT when it comes to the last 2 weeks in May, and our man is home on R&R, I give you my full permission to take your sweet time for those 2 short weeks! Pretty please? With Love and respect, ~ Tia
They are predicting snow (100%) for Chattanooga, TN tonight, tomorrow, and Tuesday; 4-6 inches. Ok, so that might not be a lot for the northerners, but here in the deep south, that's more than enough to shut down the town! If it gives you any idea...my work has been canceled for tomorrow and possibly Tuesday. It's important to note that there is currently NOTHING on the ground as far as snow and ice is concerned! haha :) I hope you all have a very good week! I might have some winter weather pictures to share after tomorrow! One can only hope!
Until next time...Heisel Rules!
Love, Tia
P.S. I have some Valentine ideas that I will need some help with! Keep a lookout for an email with details! You all rock my socks off!!
Hey everyone! I know I promised some pictures of Matt's reenlistment ceremony and I saw this picture in the newsletter this month! Please forgive the quality; Matt should be sending more pictures to me to share with everyone soon! I will keep you all posted. I will email the newsletter to everyone for you to read! (I tried to post it on here, but for some reason it won't let me. I'll try to see if I can figure it out!)
SGT Heisel reenlists with 1LT Lee giving the oath while Emily West observes.
Happy New Year to you all!! I hope you all had a great time celebrating 2011! I can't believe how fast time has gone by! Our man has been gone 4.5 months now! It seems like yesterday I was taking him to catch the plane to leave! I hope I didn't just jinx the time! :)
I had a FANTASTIC trip to the great state of Illinois! It was great to see all of you during my visit! Uncle Drew and I surprised Amanda on her Birthday (Dec. 30) by setting my flight up to arrive a day earlier! She was SOOO surprised! I was informed to pack for 'Arctic weather', but I was surprised that it was only cold the last 2 days. Uncle Drew seems to think that I always bring the warmer temps and the rain! You're welcome, Illinois! I do what I can! :)
I got to talk to Matt a couple of days ago and he was doing good. He is getting over being sick; a cold of some sort. He is preparing for his travel back to Munoz soon. I guess all good things must come to an end! :( Hopefully he will get to go back soon! I just hope he didn't get too used to hot showers, 2 hot meals a day and a comfy bed! :) Hopefully Matt will call soon so I can get another update from him! Plus, I just wanna hear his voice!
I'm not sure who all has heard, but we got 3 more years!! Reenlistment, that is! The good thing is that Matt will get to still be stationed in Fort Campbell!! We were excited about that, given the fact that his house is there! It was a hard decision for him, but I'm pretty sure he made the right one! As I was looking at some pictures of Matt when he was little, I realized by the action photos that Matt was born to do what he does! Every other picture was Matt posing in camo pants, playing rambo, or playing with a toy gun! If that doesn't speak military, I don't know what does! Just to brag really quickly, Matt really cares about his soldiers and he is great at his job; he puts his heart into it! I think he is truly an asset to the military and I think they are very lucky to have him! Whether they believe it or not, at least we know it! You're doing great, honey, and we are all here to support you! GOOOO MATT!! Matt is working on getting pictures and maybe video of his reenlistment ceremony! I will post it on here as soon as I get it! I can't wait to see it! I'm so proud of you, Matt!
Well, I hope you all have had a very good start to your new year! I wish you success in 2011 and with any new year's resolutions you have made! If you made one, post a comment and share; I'd love to hear what you all want to accomplish and to cheer you on!
Thanks so much for all you guys do! I big, puffy {heart}you all!!
Heisel Rules!
Love,
Tia
PS: Matt, if you read this, I would really love to see another picture of you and your surroundings in the winter time! Pretty please?? With a cherry on top? Love you!
