Growing up in the military

My nephew showed up at the hospital today during Dad's infusion. He's home on leave for a few weeks.

This will be the last time most of the family sees him until he returns from "The Sandbox" next summer. He is psyched to finally go to Iraq with his unit of the Air Force. Most of the family think it's because of the $$$, but my husband knows it's the thrill of being in the action. BTDT. Who wants to admit they were stateside during a "time of war"?

My nephew and I talked about how good the military has been for him. We are proud of him. He's advancing quickly in the Air Force, which has matured him immensely. Like it did Rick.

He said Cody wants to enlist and "it might be just what he needs." I reminded him that Cody doesn't like to take orders from anyone. He doesn't RESPECT anyone. And that could be dangerous, not in a silly Maverick kind of way, either.

And right now, Cody is laid up at his momma's house after being injured at work last week.

When I left my inlaws this afternoon, my nephew gave me a big hug. "I love you, Aunt Sheila. I'm glad I got to see you. I promise to keep in touch."

Please, God, keep him safe.

The Last of Sheila (Coburn)