My First Real Update...

I have recently been told that I will almost certainly deploy to Iraq in mid-August. I have also been told, fortunately, that I will certainly get at least 10, but possibly 14 days of leave so that I can come home before I go to Iraq. I will be gone for at least 6 months, but possibly 7 and there is no way to know exactly when I will get back. I do not know for sure what I will be doing once I get there, but the guys who are over there have all had their chance to go "outside the wire," meaning off base. Most have done patrols and most have done at least one convoy. Convoys are the most dangerous because of road-side bombs and ambushes. I am not worried in the least about my time "outside the wire" when it comes. I know that my God will take care of me, and of whomever I might leave behind. Most of my time will be spent on the base and, from what I understand, it is not too uncomfortable. I will be able to take my computer and will likely have occasional internet access so I will be able to update you guys here.
Helen and I are still deciding about whether to get married this coming May (2006) or the following May (after she graduates). The decision has been boiled down to one last thing, and it is something that we have very little control over. Please continue to pray for us as we enter this challenging, wonderful, and exciting new era of our lives. This is one of the happiest and most difficult decisions that I have ever had to make, and I'm not done yet. The most difficult part has been trying to tell the difference between the still small voice of the Holy Spirit and my own wants and desires screaming at me. The other difficult thing has been taking into account the needs, wants, and preferences of another person, who doesn't think like a guy (thank God ;-). It has by no means been unpleasant, but it has been trying. Helen and I have had to learn more about how to work together, how to communicate effectively, and how to make tough decisions. I have fallen even more in love with this wonderful young lady through this decision making process. I now know that no matter what we decide, and no matter what happens, as long as we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, He will take care of everything else (Matt 6:33). Anyhow, that's my new situation and our dilemma. More later...

Soli Deo Gloria