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October 24, 2007
What He Said
I appreciate the feedback so much in the last comment section. It means a lot to me to have so many people praying for Andrew AND our family! I need it and I am not ashamed to admit it.
Stacey asked if Andrew could call or write anytime soon.
I was warned when he left that he would make one phone call to let me know he had arrived safely. He had to read a certain script and would not be permitted to say anything else no matter what we said to him.
He told me before he left that he would spend his one phone call on me. This meant more to me than I could ever express. He could have called his girlfriend or his papaw; instead he chose me and for that, I am honored.
I had no idea when he would call, but I figured it would be sometime Wednesday (today). I honestly figured he would call at a decent hour when we were awake and alert. I carried my cell phone around with me everywhere I went just in case he called earlier than expected.
At bedtime, I laid my cell phone next to Kevin on the desk because I don’t have a bedside table. We were both in a deep sleep when my phone rang at 1:10 AM. Kevin answered and all I heard him say was, “Good luck. We love you.”
I asked if that was Andrew and he said yes, it was. I asked why he didn’t pass the phone to me and he said there was no time. He said Andrew was reading quickly and he could hear other Marines talking around him (saying the same thing). He said Andrew talked so fast that by the time he passed the phone to me he would have been gone.
So, what did I do at 1:12 AM? I’m sure you guessed it!
I cried! I blew my nose. I got frustrated and disappointed and then went back to sleep.
This is what Andrew (and all other Marines) are allowed to say:
* I have arrived safely at Parris Island.* Please do not send any food or bulky items.
* I will contact you in 3 to 5 days via postcard with my new mailing address.
* Thank you for your support.
* Goodbye for now.
Hey, at least I know he is safe. I have a schedule of what he will be doing each week. It looks like they will be doing basic things this week like getting their gear and medical exams. Saturday they will have a big test to see where they are physically. He did great on this test when he was here, so I’m sure he will excel there also. Kevin made me a calendar so I am set! After today, he only has 84 days left!
*****
Mom got more platelets at the Markey today. Other than that, things seem to be going her way.
Posted by tami at October 24, 2007 4:48 PM
Comments
Tami, I am thinking of you. I think Andrew will do fine in "boot camp" - and we know he is safe in South Carolina. I know this is hard for you but you have been through tougher times, and will go through tougher times in the future. Be strong! Love ya!
Posted by: Dana at October 24, 2007 6:39 PM
Tami,
This post and your beautiful photo made me cry. I think you are incredibly strong, as is Andrew.
I'm glad you have the countdown calendar ready to go!
Posted by: Lori-Lyn at October 24, 2007 9:14 PM
When he was in boot camp james got one call a week, (on Sunday) that he could make. Andrew doesn't have to split his amoung sibblings so you should hear from he that often (usually). And even then they can talk more freely but they are limited in what they are allowed to talk about.
Posted by: ellice at October 25, 2007 5:56 AM
I wish it were that way Ellice. I would be thrilled. But we know for sure that we will not hear anything from him for three months. He won't be able to make phone calls until after boot camp when his schooling begins. I guess the Marines are different than everyone else.
Posted by: Tami at October 25, 2007 6:33 AM
Don't feel bad for crying. I am crying for you right now too :) Silly Women!
Posted by: Tammy at October 25, 2007 9:17 AM
Thank GOD for young men like Andrew!!! What would our country be without them? What a sacrifice he is making for his country. We get cheeseburgers, he gets Army issue food! YUK!
I say we start planning the big "Welcome home party" for his return!
I'm so happy "The Nennie" is feeling good!
I went to see Syndee yesterday. She seems to be doing good too! As always ALL in prayers!
Posted by: Becky at October 25, 2007 12:55 PM
This sounds tough on you all. I'm thinking of you.
Posted by: Miss L at October 25, 2007 2:27 PM
Just catching up these wee hours. Love and prayers to you!
Posted by: Kimberley at October 28, 2007 5:35 AM