"Leaving on a jet plane............"

Well, it is really close now. Just checked to see where my POV (Privately owned vehicle) was, and got the "enroute" message. Wish there was a website to see where all our household goods were. (How about www.whereismycrap???)

Was a little dramatic this week in actually getting the plane reservations. We had been waiting the the Girl's passport to come in. I called to set up the appointment in November, and was told the passport would be here in plenty of time for our trip. I guess the week before is considered plenty of time to the Army. Anyways, we got the passport, and it was down to transportation for the actual reservations. It is kind of funny, we both knew the day was coming. But to actually get the official reservation...I think it kinda made us both nervous/anxious. Although I can't speak from actual experience, I felt it was kind of like getting a due date to deliver a baby. You know and have known it was coming, but to get an actual date makes it official. So we began the process of informing family and friends, and saying good-byes that really feel like good-byes. Before, I could say good-bye to a friend, but I would always feel like I would see them again before I go. Now I think ,"I won't see him again before Tuesday, this is good-bye". Another effect of having the actual date I guess.

Have been doing a good deal of thinking about Germany the last couple of days. I don't worry so much about my adjustment. The Army is the Army, whether it is in the US or wherever. First Sargeants will still get on your ass if you are in Ft. Campbell of Camp Casey. I know what to expect. Was a little worried about the Girl. This is all new to her. But she is a very strong woman. I knew when I first considered asking her to marry me, that I was asking alot. You just don't ask anyone to get married to a Soldier in a time of war, move away from everyone you know to the other side of the world. But she can handle it, I got big faith in her.

Perhaps one the my deepest fears was relieved by the thought of TiVo. Had now idea how a sports addict like me could live and work so far from my Cubs. The thought of recording and watching at my convience eases my mind. I am sure that since I am out of the country my Cubs will end the drought and win the World Series. It will be sad not to be here to appreciate it to the fullest, but I will gladly take it.

PS. Remember, you read it here first.....Cubs in 2005!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!