It’s Christmas Eve and here I am in Minneapolis with many of my family members. Snow and the temperatures are falling. The reality of Iraq seems a world away, but that is okay. I will spend the next couple days letting all those who have gathered for my “deployment party” know this important stuff:
- how to access this blog site (my mom even created her first email address!)
- what an Army Reserve Public Affairs unit does in Baghdad
- how to send “care packages” to me while I am gone (don’t send sugar cookies…they become crumbs)
- why I cannot drink beer in Iraq (a blog entry about General Order #1 to follow)
- and of course, how happy I am to see all of them.
Of course, some could not make it here, so here is a shout out to my nephew “John Doe” (he jokingly said he didn’t want his friends in Coleraine to see his real name on the Internet), and his two brothers, who he asked me to refer to as “Jane Doe 1″ and “Jane Doe 2″. Did I get that right Baz?
When I get back to Fort Dix after this momentary hiatus, I will also have the chance to see my brother and legal advisor, Craig, and his family from Vermont. I have not seen them for more than a year, so this trip to Iraq will not seem any different to them. I’m especially excited about seeing his son (and my godson) William who I hear is really growing and talking. Maybe he will be a Army Public Affairs soldier some day, too?
I hope everyone reading this blog is equally enjoying their time with family this holiday season — and continue to do so everyday.
And, for those who are no longer with us, Mele Kalkimake e Haouli Makahiki Hou!
Friday, 26. December 2008
To my dear nephew Troy, I was so glad we were able to spend Christmas together this year. I always enjoy beating you in cribbage and keeping the young ones in line. I will think of you whenever I watch “Ugle Betty”. My thoughts and prayers go with you and your fellow soldiers as you take a new challenge on in your military career. Take care and come home safely. “Ugly Betty” Your Aunt Mary Jo
Saturday, 3. January 2009
Hello Troy ~ it’s been a long time - in fact you may not even remember me - but I’m the youngest Dulong. I saw your mom and she told me to check out your website - this is very cool! I wanted to pass on my family’s thoughts and prayers to you. Come home safe and Happy New Year! Be safe!
Long time family friend, Sarah
Saturday, 3. January 2009
Hello Sarah. Sure I remember you and all the other Dulongs from Pengilly. I think your brother lives right down the street from my sister in Coleraine. Glad to know you are following our blog, too. Hey, if you know of anyone with kids remind them to check out the Schools page. We want to try to connect young people in the United States with young people in Iraq. Take care!
Tuesday, 27. January 2009
Hello Troy ~ I kind of figured you would remember us - we are hard to forget! JK…Yes, Paul & Renee (he married your mom’s cousin’s daugher - Lottie Staydahor) live down the road from Nikki & Bobbie. I will pass this on to my nieces and nephews and friends with children - great idea! Keep up the good work! Stay safe! You are in our prayers!
Take care!
Sarah Dulong