Thursday, May 1, 2008

28 in Afghanistan

Well who would have thought that I would celebrate my 28th birthday in a war zone. Its been quite an experience so far over here in Afghanistan. I spent my 28th birthday roasting in the sun, laying on a tin roof to help make sure that some one didn't try to collect on a man with a price on his head. Yeah, that ain't a complaint though, its my job. And hey, I'm getting some sun. And, that is something I didn't see to much of in the coal mine back home. The hardest part of being here is not being with my wife and son. Its a little tough to see his pictures and realize how big he is getting already. I can't help but to smile every time I see his picture. He is just such a cheerful looking little guy. I know we will get along great when I get home. In the past people told me I'd regret joining the military once I had my own family. Well, I have my little family now. The truth is, it is hard to be away from them. But, I wouldn't want to be here without them back home. You see I know that no matter what other people think about what I'm doing over here, my wife believes in me 100%. Her support and strength keep me strong and encouraged, because even when we are apart, we are a team. I love her, she is the best. So I've counted some of the blessings I've received in my 28 years, and the good definitely out way the bad. God, had given me so much to be thankful for. So in case anybody is wondering. I had a great birthday.

9 comments:

Eric said...

Happy Birthday Andy!! We appreciate your service for our country. Those ol'e days playing cowboys and indians payed off. haha. You really got training that night we slept out in Chad Kratz's tree house. haha. We are praying for you. Keep your chin up.

Kathy said...

Andrew, you don't know me but I, too, am the wife of a NG soldier. Maybe Kara has mentioned me, but Dave has been in for 22 years. He was deployed to Iraq when Mason was just 3 weeks old. We understand what you're going through. We are so proud of you and your commitment to our country and mankind. Keep up the Hooah!

Doug and Kim Hoffman said...

Happy belated birthday, Andy! You have a wonderful wife to be proud of. There do not seem to be many these days that stand behind their husband 100%. I'm glad for those like Kara.

We appreciate your sacrifice! Keep up the good work.

paul said...

Andy!

Paul Peterson here.

Man, I'm proud of you.

Thank you for your courageous sacrifice.

You leave everything so that those of us who are here can safely enjoy everything. You are a hero.

God bless you and Happy Birthday!

Missy said...

Happy Birthday, Andy. It was so cool to see a post from you. Your attitude and spirit is great and we really appreciate what you are doing!!! Glad you had a good birthday. I will continue to pray that you stay safe. Happy B'day!

Jon Plank said...

We're proud of you. We got a big tub of ice cream the other day and Ashley suggested we could "save it for when Uncle Andy comes home." We all miss you.

sankey family said...

Happy birthday, Andy - we are praying for you!
Marc and Melodie Sankey and boys

The Donaheys said...

Happy belated birthday! We think of you often and pray for you. Thanks for the post, it was good to hear from you.

Mother said...

Happy Belated birthday, Andy! I really enjoy yours and Kara's posts. You are both so supportive of each other. That is wonderful! I appreciate both of you! You are in my prayers.