Adam called from MCT last night. We got to talk for about a half hour under the guise of making travel arrangements. Now - booking flights around the holidays is pretty tough. Well, try finding flights on Dec 23rd and Jan 1st. I dare ya. Well, we did find him some flights - at a lovely inflated price. But he's coming home and that's worth every cent. In fact, we paid an extra 80 bucks just to keep him here until 9PM on the 1st vs. leaving at 8AM. Money well spent. :-)

He's doing very well in training. He is not guide nor squad leader. Just general population, which he said is a nice relief. He spent the last 9 days in the field - eating nothing but MREs, throwing grenades, sleeping on concrete under the stars in 20 degree weather, and "spooning with guys." I guess you'll do anything to stay warm!

He had just gotten out of the field when he called and was covered in perma-dirt. No shower for 9 days would do that. I'm sure his cammies could just about stand up on their own.

Meanwhile the girls and I are keeping plenty busy getting ready for Christmas. We've baked cookies, sat on Santa's lap (twice), had our "friends" gift exchange party. Today is Bryna's school concert, Sunday is her chruch concert and I think next week we have one more party. Phew! Oh, tonight we are heading up to Minneapolis to watch the hollidazzle parade with my sister and nephew. Bryna will spend the night there while Mommy and Livi get some Christmas shopping done. I'll probably try to sneak in some office hours in there too.

Before we know it, next week will be over and Adam will be home again! Even if only for a week.