Dear Gabe,

Check it out, less than 2 weeks, give or take a day or two... and you'll be making your way back home.  Don't forget to get lots of pictures along the way.  And take your laptop, dad was able to get online at a couple of the airports when he was traveling.

Marilyn called and said that the Memorial Day Blackpowder Shoot has been canceled due to the fire ban.  It doesn't seem too bad out here, but I hear the forests are real dry.  Over 4000 acres burned back behind Walmart, all the way down to Venetucci's Pumpkin Farm.  This could be a bad year for wild fires. 

So anyhow, Marilyn sends her love.  So does Peggy, the department manager from Pets when you were there, do you remember her?  I saw Christy yesterday.  You better remember to see her when you're in town, okay?  And Nick keeps on checking to see when you're coming in.

I saw the sweetest thing today.  An older woman was checking out in my line when she spotted a couple of soldiers.  She shouted out 'Thank You Heroes' and started clapping, but they didn't hear her and walked away.  She turned back and acted embarrassed but I clapped for her.  I told her 'And I applaud you for your support.'  We talked for a little while and before she left she said to tell you 'thank you', and that she was praying for you. 

So, if you are ever out there, far from home and find yourself wondering if its worth it, the answer is: Yes, it is worth it, and there are so many people who appreciate what you and the others are doing, and they are praying for your safety and eventual return to your home, people you have never met and may never know, but Patriots just as you are.

And then theres your family... your brothers and little sisters, impatiently watching the calendar, your dad who doesn't say much but is just as excited as your goofy old mom, who can't seem to figure out just exactly how many days it is before you begin your journey home.

So, as always, be safe Son.  Miss you, love you.

Mom~