We received our housing assignment for Southeastern. Starting Jan 2nd we'll be the proud renters of a 2 bed, 1 bath duplex in Wake Forest, a mere block away from campus. Pretty nice. They're older buildings, built in 1959 and 1979, but apparently have been newly refurbished with carpet/etc. Our duplex is caddy corner to a high school football field with only a tree-free parking lot to buffer the stadium noise-- hope they have a lot of away games!
It's less than 2 months to go now! We're in full-on job hunting mode. I'm hoping and praying for a 6th grade Language Arts position... if not I guess I'll try elementary. Kellen is not sure just what to look for since we're not sure when classes are offered to plan around. If God wants him in ministry He'll make a way, I'm sure!
Thanksgiving will be here before you know it; don't let the 75 degree weather today trick you! And it's just one month (tomorrow) until our crazy Canook clan arrives-- Joanie & Justin and Ben & Rhonda (full bellied by then!) arrive Dec 16 for about 2 weeks of Christmas shenanigans! What a full and happy house it will be! Then a day after they fly out, Kellen and I move! Empty nest for Momma & Daddy!
It's a busy time of year, but I'm so ready to be moving towards a goal again, and not feel like I'm just killing time til we start seminary!
I'm going to go take advantage of this Indian Summer day... where'd I put those capri pants?
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
In You - Mercy Me
We started singing this song at church a couple weeks ago, and I just love it. Had to share it.
Clink on the link and give it a listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-86VTOuZWQ
Clink on the link and give it a listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-86VTOuZWQ
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Halloween, past and present
Just thought I'd post our Halloween pic...
Here's one from 1983. Ben is the leopard, Joanie is the skeleton, and I'm the vampire. Momma was dressed up too, she was all dolled up with a short hair wig and red lipstick- sassy!
Here's one from 1983. Ben is the leopard, Joanie is the skeleton, and I'm the vampire. Momma was dressed up too, she was all dolled up with a short hair wig and red lipstick- sassy!
Here's me and Kellen last night. Homer & Marge Simpson.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Busy Living
Summer is over and it's been packed!
We settled in at Momma & Daddy's where we'll be living til after Christmas. We moved all our unnecessary house furnishings into storage and promptly packed things up for a 3 week excursion to see Kellen's parents in Brasil.
We were there Aug 12 - Sept 3- long enough to enjoy seeing family and friends there, as well as the sites around, but not so long that we wilted away from the heat! On the contrary, with all the wonderful delights Bonnie cooked and all the local cuisine we feasted upon, we both packed on quite a few pounds, which we didn't claim at customs!
It's winter in Brasil right now, but you'd never know it! It's quite hot (highs in the mid-80's) but there's little humidity to speak of since it's the dry season. It's been an unusual dry season with more rain than normal- we got to see quite a few rainstorms and rainbows.
The weather cools off most evenings as the sun sets around 6pm and with a fan pulling in the cool night air you hardly miss the air conditioning.... right. There were a couple nights with restless heat, but for the most part the fan did keep us cool. During the day if we weren't frequenting a nearby waterfall, we took advantage of the wadding pool Bonnie has on the veranda... forget the hot tub, give me a "cool tub". Dips in the 3ft deep, 8ft diameter pool were almost daily and always refreshing!
We also were lucky enough to be close to the geographical center of South America- which happened to be VERY windy on the day we ventured there. 
It had quite a view as it was the sloping edge of a plateau- a very cool geographical feature of the area that I find breath-taking! Everywhere you looked you could see a plateau in the distance, or right next to you. Beautiful.
We mostly kept to the house, enjoying time with Kellen's parents, and always Bonnie's home cooking! When we did leave the house it was usually a grocery run or to take in a waterfall. I was glad to have my ever-present translators because Portuguese, though a lovely language, is frustratingly difficult to understand when all you know is a few words in Spanish! We went to several church services, all of which were conducted in Portuguese. This was by far the most frustrating thing I dealt with. Everyone, but me, spoke and clearly understood Portuguese. So about 90% of all conversations outside the house were in Portuguese. Before leaving I didn't really think about how frustrating that might be. Had I not lived in South Korea, dealing with 17 months of not really knowing the native language? It seemed like having a translator right by my side would be easier than the complete lack of understanding in Korea- which had been interesting, and sometimes difficult, but was never as frustrating as this! I guess it was because in Korea I shared my lack of understanding with basically every foreigner I was with, but in Brasil, all the foreigners I was with spoke/understood Portuguese, so I was the only clueless one... I was the only one who had to wait for a translation so I could respond to a question or comment, or get a joke that everyone else had already laughed at 30 seconds ago. It was a learning experience.
Now we're back in the States and settling into a routine. Kellen is substitute teaching, I'm looking for work, and in the meantime I'm starting "my book."
I've been prompted by Kellen, my parents, grandparents, various other friends and family to write about my experiences in S. Korea. I guess I've put it off for so long because it just feels so presumptuous to write about myself and my experiences, albeit in an interesting place, on such a grand scheme... not a simple email update or blog, but a full blown book which I actually hope to publish. I don't want to seem like I'm putting on airs or think that just because I lived off-continent I have a story to tell and the world needs to take note... I don't! I just hope that "the book" turns out to be interesting and could perhaps help provide some insight for people thinking about teaching English in SK. Ideally it'd make us enough money to support us during Kellen's seminary years, but who knows, it may end up costing us! It seems like such a monumental task, a very lofty ambition, and I wonder if I'm up to the task, or if it'll be something anyone would want/need to read...
Anyway. That's where we are now. Living with my parents, enjoying a less financially restraining few months before it's back to the real world, with its burdens and joys, in a new city, with new opportunities and challenges. As always we appreciate the prayers- especially concerning work :)
View my Brasil pics via facebook- the second link is pics from our trip to the zoo in Brasil.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=298530&id=817345012&l=7f7ef6fcc1
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=298530&id=817345012&l=7f7ef6fcc1
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Movin' and Shakin'!
We found out a week ago that Kellen has been accepted into Southeastern! He'll start in Jan, 2010 for the spring semester. We're both relieved and glad to have that door open and have the date in mind so we can actually make plans, and arrangements for work, etc. We'd hoped to start this fall, but God knows best and His timing is perfect.
Starting a semester later than we'd planned gives us the summer & fall free for other things, like taking a trip to Brasil! Kellen's parents will "retire" from the Brasil mission field in December, and work at the South American Mission home office in South Carolina. We're SO thrilled to have them so near to us, but wanted to take advantage of them living in Brasil, which made for a kind of "now or never" trip planning.
God worked out all the details. My parents have welcomed us to stay with them so we can save our rent money to go towards the trip, a possible second car, as well as tuition for Southeastern. This has been a huge blessing, and we'll be moving out of our apartment July 15, putting our furniture, etc in storage for the months in the meantime. We were also blessed to find flights for nearly half of what we expected to pay. All in all the last week has basically shaped the way our next 6 months will unfold (as we perceive it...).
We'll be in Brasil for 3 weeks (Aug 12- Sep 4), so our jobs will terminate shortly before we leave. My last day is Aug 6, with the last couple weeks only working Tue/Thu so the kids can become accustomed to daycare. Kellen's pool job was supposed to wrap up by then anyway. By the time we get back, school will be in full swing, and we're planning on both substitute teaching, making a second car more of a necessity. If we can find other work for the 4 months we'd jump on it, but it's so difficult to find jobs, let alone temporary work... so we'll see.
As always we're appreciative of the prayers of our friends and family- especially during this transition.
Starting a semester later than we'd planned gives us the summer & fall free for other things, like taking a trip to Brasil! Kellen's parents will "retire" from the Brasil mission field in December, and work at the South American Mission home office in South Carolina. We're SO thrilled to have them so near to us, but wanted to take advantage of them living in Brasil, which made for a kind of "now or never" trip planning.
God worked out all the details. My parents have welcomed us to stay with them so we can save our rent money to go towards the trip, a possible second car, as well as tuition for Southeastern. This has been a huge blessing, and we'll be moving out of our apartment July 15, putting our furniture, etc in storage for the months in the meantime. We were also blessed to find flights for nearly half of what we expected to pay. All in all the last week has basically shaped the way our next 6 months will unfold (as we perceive it...).
We'll be in Brasil for 3 weeks (Aug 12- Sep 4), so our jobs will terminate shortly before we leave. My last day is Aug 6, with the last couple weeks only working Tue/Thu so the kids can become accustomed to daycare. Kellen's pool job was supposed to wrap up by then anyway. By the time we get back, school will be in full swing, and we're planning on both substitute teaching, making a second car more of a necessity. If we can find other work for the 4 months we'd jump on it, but it's so difficult to find jobs, let alone temporary work... so we'll see.
As always we're appreciative of the prayers of our friends and family- especially during this transition.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
jobs, cars and seminary
Kellen started his summer job today. He is a pool attendant at a neighborhood in High Point. He makes sure the people coming into the pool area have a pool pass and keeps general order, kicking out drunks or overly boisterous or foul-mouthed folks. It's a laid back job; hopefully he finds some shade, but he's free to jump in and cool off as necessary. And hopefully I can keep him company sometimes, and catch a few rays. His hours are in the afternoon, so he can still keep substitute teaching, which has been going well.
This new job makes a second car more of a necessity. We'll be able to get by without one for a while, but in the meantime we're looking for an inexpensive, but reliable car... like everyone else in the world :)
Concerning seminary, Kellen and I are weighing the benefits of staying here and doing on-line seminary thru Liberty University. We wouldn't have the benefit of a scholarship, unless something comes thru afer filling out the FAFSA. With the online school we wouldn't have to move or look for new jobs. Both seminaries have pros & cons, so we appreciate your prayers as we make our decision.
My nannying job is going well. The kids are growing and giving me reasons to laugh everyday. Gavin (who is 7 months old, but wears 12 month clothes) is cutting his first tooth, but still manages to giggle and smile. He's starting to pull up and loves to stand... now if I can get him on a steady napping schedule we'll be doing well. As for Anna (3yrs old) she is potty trained. It happened quickly; one day she's in diapers, the next in underwear, and she's telling me when she needs to go, without me asking every 5 mins! It's the easiest potty training experience I've ever had. They had a backyard full of tent caterpillars, and she's enjoyed holding them and letting them walk up her arm- spring brings out the bugs/critters so there's been quite a bit of excitement checking them out and deciding which ones are "biters" or not :) She's not scared to pick 'em up! It's been a great job so far, and I'm looking forward to staying with it as long as possible.
This new job makes a second car more of a necessity. We'll be able to get by without one for a while, but in the meantime we're looking for an inexpensive, but reliable car... like everyone else in the world :)
Concerning seminary, Kellen and I are weighing the benefits of staying here and doing on-line seminary thru Liberty University. We wouldn't have the benefit of a scholarship, unless something comes thru afer filling out the FAFSA. With the online school we wouldn't have to move or look for new jobs. Both seminaries have pros & cons, so we appreciate your prayers as we make our decision.
My nannying job is going well. The kids are growing and giving me reasons to laugh everyday. Gavin (who is 7 months old, but wears 12 month clothes) is cutting his first tooth, but still manages to giggle and smile. He's starting to pull up and loves to stand... now if I can get him on a steady napping schedule we'll be doing well. As for Anna (3yrs old) she is potty trained. It happened quickly; one day she's in diapers, the next in underwear, and she's telling me when she needs to go, without me asking every 5 mins! It's the easiest potty training experience I've ever had. They had a backyard full of tent caterpillars, and she's enjoyed holding them and letting them walk up her arm- spring brings out the bugs/critters so there's been quite a bit of excitement checking them out and deciding which ones are "biters" or not :) She's not scared to pick 'em up! It's been a great job so far, and I'm looking forward to staying with it as long as possible.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Tour and jobs
The tour of the seminary went well. The staff is really friendly and helpful and the housing options look nice, and affordable. We were able to talk to someone about financial aid, and got our application in for the scholarship that should cover the whole tuition, which will certainly make life easier! We even spoke to the employment services lady and she's given us a few leads on good job ideas once we move there-- assuming all works out. All in all it looks like the best choice; we can move by mid-summer, settle in, get our work lined up and he can start classes in Aug. Pretty fast, but when the Lord moves, He moves.
Kellen has been keeping busy with substitute teaching, which is great to have. He has a job interview with UPS on Tues pm; this is a job that is also available near the school, so hopefully he can start now, and transfer to the other, getting a head start on training, etc and the year requirement before benefits kick in.
I'm still enjoying my nanny job. The kids are growing like weeds, and are a lot of fun- especially now that the little girl is being sweeter to her baby brother, instead of hitting him, she's patting and hugging him- a welcomed change! Thankfully, the family is pleased with me as well- they want me to work for them indefinitely, right up to the move to Wake Forest, or beyond. So, it's nice to have that security.
That's all for now.
Kellen has been keeping busy with substitute teaching, which is great to have. He has a job interview with UPS on Tues pm; this is a job that is also available near the school, so hopefully he can start now, and transfer to the other, getting a head start on training, etc and the year requirement before benefits kick in.
I'm still enjoying my nanny job. The kids are growing like weeds, and are a lot of fun- especially now that the little girl is being sweeter to her baby brother, instead of hitting him, she's patting and hugging him- a welcomed change! Thankfully, the family is pleased with me as well- they want me to work for them indefinitely, right up to the move to Wake Forest, or beyond. So, it's nice to have that security.
That's all for now.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Life Update
We've been looking into the best way for Kellen to become a Navy chaplain. He met with the pastor of our church, who mentioned that they offer funding to Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC. We're going to tour the campus Friday and see the housing options, as well as speak with a financial aid advisor.
We're not certain SBTS is where we'll end up. There are other options, including online seminary, but this is a very appealing option, especially since it'd cost us very little thanks to the church's funding.
As soon as Kellen is accepted to a seminary he can apply to the Navy and begin the process of becoming a chaplain candidate. He will have to get a masters in divinity and get some experience (which he can knock out during the masters schooling) before he can actually become a chaplain, so we have some time ahead of us.
Kellen is finally rested up and seems to be recovered from his time at OCS. He still holds onto his formal "thank you, ma'am" and "good afternoon, sir", very polite, but a noted difference from his more casual self. Right now he's looking for work... along with what seems like half the nation. We're hopeful he'll find something that suits him and meets our needs, but we've been blessed with his OCS pay, and my pay was increased since I agreed to extend my contract with the family for whom I nanny, so God is faithfully meeting our needs.
We'll keep you posted as things move along.
We're not certain SBTS is where we'll end up. There are other options, including online seminary, but this is a very appealing option, especially since it'd cost us very little thanks to the church's funding.
As soon as Kellen is accepted to a seminary he can apply to the Navy and begin the process of becoming a chaplain candidate. He will have to get a masters in divinity and get some experience (which he can knock out during the masters schooling) before he can actually become a chaplain, so we have some time ahead of us.
Kellen is finally rested up and seems to be recovered from his time at OCS. He still holds onto his formal "thank you, ma'am" and "good afternoon, sir", very polite, but a noted difference from his more casual self. Right now he's looking for work... along with what seems like half the nation. We're hopeful he'll find something that suits him and meets our needs, but we've been blessed with his OCS pay, and my pay was increased since I agreed to extend my contract with the family for whom I nanny, so God is faithfully meeting our needs.
We'll keep you posted as things move along.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Pics & Update
Here are some pics from Kellen's adventures at OCS.
Kellen's meeting with the OCS leaders went very well. Everyone respected his decision to pursue becoming a chaplain and think it suits his personality very well. He got to meet one-on-one with the chaplain there. It was insightful for him to get an inside point of view and some knowledge about what to expect so far as the process goes.
Kellen's meeting with the OCS leaders went very well. Everyone respected his decision to pursue becoming a chaplain and think it suits his personality very well. He got to meet one-on-one with the chaplain there. It was insightful for him to get an inside point of view and some knowledge about what to expect so far as the process goes.For now, we're praying and learning all we can about the process, and knowing what's required, etc. It looks like our next steps are finding a seminary, and becoming "members" of our church and really getting involved there, talking to the pastor about the process, etc, since an endorsement from him is required.
It's been great already to have Kellen home. He's more relaxed than I've seen him in the last months- my husband is back. So far we're relaxing and eating junk food :) That will end on Monday. Back to healthy food, and work for me.
We appreciate you keeping us in your prayers, we'll let you know as things develop.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Coming Home
I just got off the phone with Kellen. Among other things he said, "It's over. Come pick me up after work." I'll know more when I pick him up and hear all about the decision, etc, but all I know is that he's coming home and we feel like it's the best thing, the right choice. I know he'll be taking it easy for at least a week, relaxing and letting his body recover from all he's been thru. We'll keep you posted about what's to come, etc as we find out.
Thanks again for all your prayers and encouragement over the past few weeks. Life would've been impossible without them.
Thanks again for all your prayers and encouragement over the past few weeks. Life would've been impossible without them.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
A Bit of News
I just got an email from Kellen's OSO (recruiter) in Raleigh. Here it is:
"I heard that Lake may be having concerns at training. I would suggest that he sticks it out until the last week of training. Please reassure him that OCS is not the "Fleet Marine Corps"; he does not have to choose infantry as his job. OCS is a stressful training environment. He can choose the job of comptroller and be a finance officer, he can choose logistics and be in charge of moving supplies from base to base. He will have more then 20 choices while he is at TBS. He can put infantry last, if he does not want to be on the "front line".
I think that he will make a great officer; he just has a few more weeks. Don't let him doubt himself."
So, I'm left to assume that that means he hasn't been dropped, and they're holding onto him at least til the boards on week 9, (Mar 9). They'll reevaluate him then and make the decision of whether he should continue til the end, only days before graduation, Mar 20. I don't think Kellen will DOR (drop on request) because he doesn't want to cheat God. It took a lot for him to get into this session, and he wants to see it as far thru as he can go, which may be til the end. And God only knows, whether this is still the path He has for us.
I have to admit I'm less than thrilled. It seemed like this door was closing, and the chaplain thing was taking off. I was so looking forward to having him home so soon, but I guess God isn't quite done with Kellen there at OCS, and me here. I should still be able to see him for liberty on the weekends, and I'll be sure to post more if/when he writes, or after our visit.
Your continued prayers mean more and more every day. And apparently it really isn't time to stop those encouraging letters to Kellen :) So, thanks for keeping them coming- he'll probably need them more than ever to get thru to the end.
"I heard that Lake may be having concerns at training. I would suggest that he sticks it out until the last week of training. Please reassure him that OCS is not the "Fleet Marine Corps"; he does not have to choose infantry as his job. OCS is a stressful training environment. He can choose the job of comptroller and be a finance officer, he can choose logistics and be in charge of moving supplies from base to base. He will have more then 20 choices while he is at TBS. He can put infantry last, if he does not want to be on the "front line".
I think that he will make a great officer; he just has a few more weeks. Don't let him doubt himself."
So, I'm left to assume that that means he hasn't been dropped, and they're holding onto him at least til the boards on week 9, (Mar 9). They'll reevaluate him then and make the decision of whether he should continue til the end, only days before graduation, Mar 20. I don't think Kellen will DOR (drop on request) because he doesn't want to cheat God. It took a lot for him to get into this session, and he wants to see it as far thru as he can go, which may be til the end. And God only knows, whether this is still the path He has for us.
I have to admit I'm less than thrilled. It seemed like this door was closing, and the chaplain thing was taking off. I was so looking forward to having him home so soon, but I guess God isn't quite done with Kellen there at OCS, and me here. I should still be able to see him for liberty on the weekends, and I'll be sure to post more if/when he writes, or after our visit.
Your continued prayers mean more and more every day. And apparently it really isn't time to stop those encouraging letters to Kellen :) So, thanks for keeping them coming- he'll probably need them more than ever to get thru to the end.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Final Libo??
Kellen had a hard week being platoon leader. Giving the march cadence proved a most difficult task, getting the timing of the steps right, as well as giving orders. He was quite horse from yelling all week. The evaluators say that because he stumbles over his words it seems like he lacks confidence; which isn't really the case, he always stumbles over his words. They also say he needs to be more forceful/mean when giving orders, so there's never a doubt about who's in charge. He also didn't use the "chain of command" efficiently, opting to do things himself, when he should have ordered someone else to do it. On the positive side, they say he has the best integrity/morals of the group. He's the least selfish and has a lot of heart (which is probably why he's not mean!). Also, on PT and academics he's done quite well.
It looked like Kellen was going in to be dropped today (Monday). He had a meeting scheduled to talk with the folks who make that decision this morning. I haven't heard anything, so I don't know what's up. It could be that they've decided to drop him, but want to wait til the end of the pay period (this Friday) for convenience's sake... or they may have just given him a stern talking to and told him to buck up and act like a Marine and didn't drop him at all. Another possibility is that since his knee infection (cellulitis) was acting up they could be holding him to treat that before sending him home. All I know is he hasn't called so he isn't officially coming home yet. Hopefully, I'll get a note or a call by week's end and can update you.
Know that Kellen and I have been in fervent prayer throughout the process, but especially in the past couple of weeks, wondering if him being an officer was truly what God had for us. It seems like if he's dropped this will be a clear-cut answer. Since a few weeks into OCS God seemed to put into Kellen's heart the idea of his becoming a chaplain. That's a whole new, long process, so keep us in prayers concerning wisdom in that area, and also for Kellen's knee to heal up completely and quickly.
I asked Kellen if he was disappointed not to complete the whole session of OCS, and he said, "Not really." He's tired and I guess we both feel that perhaps the time he's had there has served it's greater purpose, which hasn't necessarily been to make him into an officer, but into a man who can sympathize a bit with men in the military and be able to minister to them more effectively. Whatever the reason(s), God's plan is perfect and we don't doubt that Kellen was meant to be at OCS. No matter the outcome, whether he's home this weekend, or if they hold onto him and offer him a commission, we trust in God's wisdom and know that He'll make our path clear, so that as long as we seek to do His will, He will guide us to it.
Thanks again for your encouraging letters to Kellen- they've really helped keep him going over the past weeks. It isn't for sure over yet, so don't hold off on sending one if you're inclined. I'll let you know as soon as I know anything new.
It looked like Kellen was going in to be dropped today (Monday). He had a meeting scheduled to talk with the folks who make that decision this morning. I haven't heard anything, so I don't know what's up. It could be that they've decided to drop him, but want to wait til the end of the pay period (this Friday) for convenience's sake... or they may have just given him a stern talking to and told him to buck up and act like a Marine and didn't drop him at all. Another possibility is that since his knee infection (cellulitis) was acting up they could be holding him to treat that before sending him home. All I know is he hasn't called so he isn't officially coming home yet. Hopefully, I'll get a note or a call by week's end and can update you.
Know that Kellen and I have been in fervent prayer throughout the process, but especially in the past couple of weeks, wondering if him being an officer was truly what God had for us. It seems like if he's dropped this will be a clear-cut answer. Since a few weeks into OCS God seemed to put into Kellen's heart the idea of his becoming a chaplain. That's a whole new, long process, so keep us in prayers concerning wisdom in that area, and also for Kellen's knee to heal up completely and quickly.
I asked Kellen if he was disappointed not to complete the whole session of OCS, and he said, "Not really." He's tired and I guess we both feel that perhaps the time he's had there has served it's greater purpose, which hasn't necessarily been to make him into an officer, but into a man who can sympathize a bit with men in the military and be able to minister to them more effectively. Whatever the reason(s), God's plan is perfect and we don't doubt that Kellen was meant to be at OCS. No matter the outcome, whether he's home this weekend, or if they hold onto him and offer him a commission, we trust in God's wisdom and know that He'll make our path clear, so that as long as we seek to do His will, He will guide us to it.
Thanks again for your encouraging letters to Kellen- they've really helped keep him going over the past weeks. It isn't for sure over yet, so don't hold off on sending one if you're inclined. I'll let you know as soon as I know anything new.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Libo 3 and Letters
What a wonderful break this libo was! Kellen was free at 1:30pm on Sat and he didn't have to be back until 6pm on Sun! Kellen's aunt and uncle were out of town, but we were still able to make use of their fine home as usual. We were sorry to miss them, but it was such a luxury to be selfish with one another and not share :) We did skype with his parents both days, and it was great for them to catch us up on what's going on in Brazil, as well as for them to see Kellen in much better spirits from their first skype visit 2 weeks ago. Things are beginning to settle into routine a bit I guess. Kellen knows more about what's the be expected; the instructors are easing up and treating them more "humanely". There's still yelling when you mess up, etc, but most of the candidates are a bit immune to it; you take the yelling, and the assigned essay and learn that lesson- don't take it to heart and let it break you down.
Kellen spent plenty of time studying and writing essays for the week ahead, and had me help him with studying. It's not very romantic, I know, but it's time spent together, and it's a way I can actually help him aside from praying and bringing food. As always the food part played a large role. I brought up a fav of his, fried chicken with rice and beans (Brazilian). I kept the chocolate/peanut butter dessert theme going, with much success. The only time I seem to cook these days is right before I head up to VA :) I also got to whip up a nice, big breakfast with pancakes and sausage on Sunday morning. Those meals, plus eating at a great burger joint (Five Guys) and Pizza Hut made for a very filling weekend.
I was blessed to have Monday off, so I spent one more night in VA and made the drive back refreshed this morning.
Pray extra hard for Kellen this week. Mon-Thurs he is his platoons leader. He's responsible for letting his men know what they'll need, when they'll go places and then walking them there, commanding the march, etc. He admits that the verbal aspect is not his strong suit; the instructors call him out on that regularly for stuttering or stumbling over his words. He knows what and how to say things, but once he gets to where he needs to say it they get kind of mixed up and he struggles with it. I'm sure they're hoping to use this as a time to drill the importance of getting it right. And with the march he has to wait for the right beat to give commands, and that's kind of a musical rhythmic thing, which is also not his strength. So keep him prayed up! The best thing is, Kellen isn't afraid to try. He volunteers to ask questions when he and the other candidates are talking, because they're hesitant to do it. He knows the worst the instructors can do is yell and assign an essay, and he can survive that. I think he's brave to go out on a limb like that, but he'll improve with practice I know. They're limited to 2 essays (max) a week, so far he's meeting that quota, sometimes the essays go to the next week if he's assigned a 3rd in a week.
Kellen is half-way done. He just started week 6 of 10. There's another "board" where they evaluate the candidates on week 7 and 9. He's testing well physically and academically, so it's still looking good. God has been very faithful to us and blessed Kellen with some great friends. He realized that he is surrounded to the left and right, and his bunk mate as well, by men who were already in the Marines before OCS. He said, "No wonder I look so bad at inspection!" But, they really have helped him in getting his gear as it should be, etc. These priors are full of info and understand a lot of what's required of them without it being explained since it's all part of the military lifestyle that Kellen didn't really possess.
His knee seems to be mostly healed up, and doesn't bother him too much. He's still on antibiotics, and once they run out he goes back to sick bay for a check up to make sure he's all healed up.
I'll conclude with a couple letters from last week. Thanks again for your letters and prayers- they're VERY encouraging!
Letter1- Monday, Feb 9
Guess what- I have another essay to write!!
Today was a PT crazy day. First we had a test on uniforms (boring). Then, we got ready and ran the O-course, ran 880 sprints (half a mile) then ran in circles screaming and doing push-ups or star-jumps, etc. After that we went on a 3 mile hike to take our land nav class. After which we had to hike back, so I'm beat.
I love you. Hope you're happy.
Letter2- Tuesday, Feb 10
I have another essay to do. But I passed my 5 mile run 36:53 and I passed my 3 mile run in boots in 23:00. Running up huge hills in boots sucks! I hate it. But I lived. This week has been PT hell. OH! We did the Quigly {a big swampy area with obstacles} and had to break the ice to get into it. But it wasn't that bad.
I need to write an essay on belligerence, because I smiled and rolled my eyes.
I'm so exhausted- everyone is. The reason we only had one test is because this week is super PT week.
Can't wait to see you. Love you with all my heart.
Kellen spent plenty of time studying and writing essays for the week ahead, and had me help him with studying. It's not very romantic, I know, but it's time spent together, and it's a way I can actually help him aside from praying and bringing food. As always the food part played a large role. I brought up a fav of his, fried chicken with rice and beans (Brazilian). I kept the chocolate/peanut butter dessert theme going, with much success. The only time I seem to cook these days is right before I head up to VA :) I also got to whip up a nice, big breakfast with pancakes and sausage on Sunday morning. Those meals, plus eating at a great burger joint (Five Guys) and Pizza Hut made for a very filling weekend.
I was blessed to have Monday off, so I spent one more night in VA and made the drive back refreshed this morning.
Pray extra hard for Kellen this week. Mon-Thurs he is his platoons leader. He's responsible for letting his men know what they'll need, when they'll go places and then walking them there, commanding the march, etc. He admits that the verbal aspect is not his strong suit; the instructors call him out on that regularly for stuttering or stumbling over his words. He knows what and how to say things, but once he gets to where he needs to say it they get kind of mixed up and he struggles with it. I'm sure they're hoping to use this as a time to drill the importance of getting it right. And with the march he has to wait for the right beat to give commands, and that's kind of a musical rhythmic thing, which is also not his strength. So keep him prayed up! The best thing is, Kellen isn't afraid to try. He volunteers to ask questions when he and the other candidates are talking, because they're hesitant to do it. He knows the worst the instructors can do is yell and assign an essay, and he can survive that. I think he's brave to go out on a limb like that, but he'll improve with practice I know. They're limited to 2 essays (max) a week, so far he's meeting that quota, sometimes the essays go to the next week if he's assigned a 3rd in a week.
Kellen is half-way done. He just started week 6 of 10. There's another "board" where they evaluate the candidates on week 7 and 9. He's testing well physically and academically, so it's still looking good. God has been very faithful to us and blessed Kellen with some great friends. He realized that he is surrounded to the left and right, and his bunk mate as well, by men who were already in the Marines before OCS. He said, "No wonder I look so bad at inspection!" But, they really have helped him in getting his gear as it should be, etc. These priors are full of info and understand a lot of what's required of them without it being explained since it's all part of the military lifestyle that Kellen didn't really possess.
His knee seems to be mostly healed up, and doesn't bother him too much. He's still on antibiotics, and once they run out he goes back to sick bay for a check up to make sure he's all healed up.
I'll conclude with a couple letters from last week. Thanks again for your letters and prayers- they're VERY encouraging!
Letter1- Monday, Feb 9
Guess what- I have another essay to write!!
Today was a PT crazy day. First we had a test on uniforms (boring). Then, we got ready and ran the O-course, ran 880 sprints (half a mile) then ran in circles screaming and doing push-ups or star-jumps, etc. After that we went on a 3 mile hike to take our land nav class. After which we had to hike back, so I'm beat.
I love you. Hope you're happy.
Letter2- Tuesday, Feb 10
I have another essay to do. But I passed my 5 mile run 36:53 and I passed my 3 mile run in boots in 23:00. Running up huge hills in boots sucks! I hate it. But I lived. This week has been PT hell. OH! We did the Quigly {a big swampy area with obstacles} and had to break the ice to get into it. But it wasn't that bad.
I need to write an essay on belligerence, because I smiled and rolled my eyes.
I'm so exhausted- everyone is. The reason we only had one test is because this week is super PT week.
Can't wait to see you. Love you with all my heart.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Libo 2
Here's how Kellen looked just before he headed back over the bridge he hates so much! He is a sight to behold in his utilities :) The red emblems aren't part of the usual get-up, but for the past few days he'd been serving as (I think) squad leader. He was ready to pass along that duty, as the instructors' eyes are always on you and the possibility for getting grilled is greatly increased... a bit more stressful than normal.As I was about to head out for this weekend I checked the mail, just to make sure Kellen hadn't sent a letter with any last minute requests... and sure enough he had! He wanted 2 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips and peanut butter brownies. I told him the week before about the PB brownies I was planning on bringing, so they were ready, all I had to do was run back to the apt and make the PB&J's and stop off at a mart for the chips!
He had first firewatch, so he got out a bit after 8pm, and was a very happy camper with his goodies! We went out to Chili's and had a nice meal to celebrate our anniversary. After stopping off at an ice cream shop we headed on to Tony and Melody's where we were able to spend our first night together since he left a month ago. Never has the sound of him snoring been so sweet. We had to be up early so he could be in formation at 8am.
I was able to pick him back up around 10:30, but he wasn't allowed to leave base! I dropped him at the base McD's where he could study and write some essays while I drove back to Tony & Melody's to pick up our things. We spent the rest of the afternoon with each other. We found a neat little restaurant called "Quantico Deli Fried Chicken". It's owned by a Korean lady and they had some familiar looking Korean dishes- it was like stepping back into Korea! They even had kimchi, for which Kellen was very happy :P I'd forgotten how bad kimchi breath is! It was a very pleasant day, so we found a park with a picnic table where we could sort out and organize his clothes that I'd thrown in the duffel at Tony & Melody's.
Our time was drawing to a close since (due to being in sick bay for his knee) he had a test to make up. So around 3:45 I dropped him off, with "orders" to be back at 5:30 with supper. As soon as he finished his test last week he was free to leave, and so we missed out on about an extra hour of time together since I left after dropping him off for the test. This time I waited and even though he finished his test in 20 mins, he had to wait until the last person finished testing, arriving at the car at 6:20. He was so upset, as he only had about 10 minutes to squeeze in one last visit and scarf down his supper. The time we get to spend together go a long way to get him through the week, remembering the good time we had, and looking forward to the next liberty. Missing out on times like that really weigh on him and he was really discouraged, painfully aware of the time missed together when I was mere yards away; it's just the kind of thing that brings it all to a head and makes him want to drop, all the while knowing that through all the suffering, he's right where God wants him. In his last letter he wrote:
"I felt like crap this morning. I wanted to drop, but I didn't want to cheat God. He got me here. If He doesn't want me to finish we'll work it out. I just don't like all the pressure. But I feel fine now. The story of OCS, high highs, low lows."
It goes without saying that your prayers are a tremendous support to him. Knowing that he has people at home thinking about him and praying for him really helps bolster him through the week, especially when times seem their bleakest. The instructors are supposed to treat the candidates more "like humans" soon, knowing that the finest of the crop is remaining, and they simply need to do mold them into officers, while continuing to weed out the weakest leaders, etc.
He should also get to talk with someone about his MOS (Military Occupation Specialty, or job). This will give him some idea of what he wants to do in the military, should they select him as an officer. He would like God's guidance in that area. He'd originally thought about MP, but while being there he's thinking about being a chaplain... which isn't a position for an officer... so be in prayer about what it is God wants him to do. He wants to be faithful to whatever God's will is, but he is really hating the separation factor, and so am I. So, hopefully God is able to lead us to something where he's not away so much, with training that will include me moving with him... but that's up to Him.
The OCS site has new pics, but I didn't spot him in them. It's still good to be able to see what he was camping and hiking through. Here are a couple from the 4 mile hike they had in week 3.
Kellen wanted me to be sure and say "Thanks" for your letters. They are a great encouragement during the week, and he is happily the recipient of many a letter- so Thank You!!! If you haven't written, but want to be a part of the encouragement, here's the address once again. Thanks again for all the prayers and notes! Candidate Lake, Kellen, K. 1252
OCS, C Company, 2nd Platoon
2189 Elrod Ave
Quantico, VA 22134-5033
Friday, February 6, 2009
Quick Letter
A quick one from Kellen.
Tuesday, Feb 3:
"I got some letters, so I figured I better write. I need to study, so I'll make this quick.
On Monday we went out to the field in tents. It sucked, but we only had to take them down once! I scored a 92% on my retake test. I also aced my "night land" nav eval. Finally, I missed only one question on SuleI which is about a 98.5%. Good huh?
Well, after all that though, I had to go see the Corpsman and that's where I got blasted! I got put on SIQ (sick in quarters) so my instructors are ticked at me! So, I'm getting yelled at at every turn.
But it's ok with me. I got a ton of letters and I feel much better. I'll keep giving my all and see what God does.
Off to the books!
xoxo
Tuesday, Feb 3:
"I got some letters, so I figured I better write. I need to study, so I'll make this quick.
On Monday we went out to the field in tents. It sucked, but we only had to take them down once! I scored a 92% on my retake test. I also aced my "night land" nav eval. Finally, I missed only one question on SuleI which is about a 98.5%. Good huh?
Well, after all that though, I had to go see the Corpsman and that's where I got blasted! I got put on SIQ (sick in quarters) so my instructors are ticked at me! So, I'm getting yelled at at every turn.
But it's ok with me. I got a ton of letters and I feel much better. I'll keep giving my all and see what God does.
Off to the books!
xoxo
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
First Liberty Weekend
I headed up to VA Sat, and arrived mid afternoon. I got to spend some time with Kellen's aunt and uncle who live in Fredericksburg, only about 20mins from the base. Around 7:30 Kellen called and told me to meet him at the McDonald's on base. I drove as fast as I reasonably could and made excellent time! It was SO great to see him and hug him, etc.
He was very lively and told me tons of stories, etc. He had an infection in his knee (cellulitis) which had him in the sick bay and in quarters for 2 days. When he originally went to sick bay he thought this was it for him, because for most candidates cellulitis is not a quick fix and they get sent home, but God pulled him through again and he's still there hanging on. But- because of this he was put on "light duty" for his platoon's duty, which basically meant he didn't do anything, but show up for the platoon guard switch. So, the cellulitis was a blessing in disguise since it gave him a couple days to relax, and then for liberty he had more freedom to spend time with me. We spent Sat pm eating. How typically Kellen :) He'd already eaten 2 sandwiches and a sundae at McD's when I got there. I'd made cookies and banana bread, which he ate half of before we headed to Domino's (also on base!) and devoured most of a large pizza. We then did some shopping for some supplies he needed and hung out and studied in the car, as everything seems to shut down at 10pm.
He headed back to his barracks at midnight, and I headed to Tony & Melody's. I got to the gate I entered base through only to find it closes at 9:30pm!!! I knew there was another gate somewhere. Based on some lodging info I'd heard about earlier, and seen a sign for, I managed to find my way to it after some earnest prayers concerning sleeping in the car...
I picked Kellen up on Sun at 8:15am and he was free to leave base! We headed to Tony & Melody's where I fixed him a feast of a breakfast, did some laundry, helped quiz him for tests he's studying for, etc. It was SO wonderful to be able to spend so much time with him off base, even if we were studying and preparing him for the week ahead. It was a real blessing to both of us, a refresher, and makes us all the more anxious for the next weekend!
When it came time to leave we went out to the car only to find the battery dead. I'd left the lights on (my warning bell wasn't working, and I was distracted getting out of the car, etc!!). Luckily, Tony had some jumper cables, so in a matter of minutes he jumped us off and we were on our way. We still had time to do a bit more shopping at the PX and made it to the drop off with time to spare.
It wasn't easy saying goodbye again, but we both rest in knowing God will take care of each of us until we get to see one another THIS weekend. It's our anniversary on Sunday, so we're really hoping and praying that it works out for him to be able to stay off base. He has some buddies who are willing to work with him and make it so he won't have the night shift so he can stay at Tony & Melody's. What a blessing that is! Hopefully it all works out- I almost feel bad asking God for that because he provided us with so much time together this past weekend, a full week or more before we'd even hoped to see each other. But I'm asking largely, that my "joy may be full!"
Kellen seemed to be in fairly good spirits for someone going through this process. He's tired and hungry most days, and is always stressed about having things in their place and remembering the proper ways to do this and that, as well as all the tests academically. Keep him in your prayers; he really values them, and so do I!
Pre-Libo letters:
He headed back to his barracks at midnight, and I headed to Tony & Melody's. I got to the gate I entered base through only to find it closes at 9:30pm!!! I knew there was another gate somewhere. Based on some lodging info I'd heard about earlier, and seen a sign for, I managed to find my way to it after some earnest prayers concerning sleeping in the car...
I picked Kellen up on Sun at 8:15am and he was free to leave base! We headed to Tony & Melody's where I fixed him a feast of a breakfast, did some laundry, helped quiz him for tests he's studying for, etc. It was SO wonderful to be able to spend so much time with him off base, even if we were studying and preparing him for the week ahead. It was a real blessing to both of us, a refresher, and makes us all the more anxious for the next weekend!
When it came time to leave we went out to the car only to find the battery dead. I'd left the lights on (my warning bell wasn't working, and I was distracted getting out of the car, etc!!). Luckily, Tony had some jumper cables, so in a matter of minutes he jumped us off and we were on our way. We still had time to do a bit more shopping at the PX and made it to the drop off with time to spare.
It wasn't easy saying goodbye again, but we both rest in knowing God will take care of each of us until we get to see one another THIS weekend. It's our anniversary on Sunday, so we're really hoping and praying that it works out for him to be able to stay off base. He has some buddies who are willing to work with him and make it so he won't have the night shift so he can stay at Tony & Melody's. What a blessing that is! Hopefully it all works out- I almost feel bad asking God for that because he provided us with so much time together this past weekend, a full week or more before we'd even hoped to see each other. But I'm asking largely, that my "joy may be full!"
Kellen seemed to be in fairly good spirits for someone going through this process. He's tired and hungry most days, and is always stressed about having things in their place and remembering the proper ways to do this and that, as well as all the tests academically. Keep him in your prayers; he really values them, and so do I!
Pre-Libo letters:
Letter 1: Wednesday, Jan 28
"A lot has happened since the last time I wrote. I am currently writing this in a hospital bed with an IV in my arm. I have an infection in my knee. So I am sleeping, writing essays and hanging out. I hope I don't get kicked out, but God's will be done. Sunday was by far the worst day of OCS. They had us do tons of games. We cleaned the "house" like 50 times. I was missing you so much. It was all I could do to stay motivated.
On Sun-Mon night we had to pack for a camping trip and 3-4mile hike with a 70 lb pack on our backs. On top of that we had a test on Monday. So, I spent 2.5 hours packing in the dark, another 1 hr on fire watch and final 2 hours studying. I failed the test, but hey my bag was packed. (Lesson learned on that one). From now on tests come first for this guy.
On Monday I failed the test and we all walked around with those packs on for hours. Around 3 we all got together and went for a hike to our camping site. The sire was about a mile out. Once we arrived, the games began. We had to make our tent and take it down 3 times. It sucked! After that we got to eat MRE's. It was dark so I didn't even know how to eat them. But, I figured it out. Now that I think about it, I haven't eaten a hot meal since Sunday evening! I am SOOO hungry!
On Tuesday we got to sleep in til 5:30. It was awesome!Then we took down our tents and had another MRE. I got Tuna mmm... but it had peanut M&M's so I was happy! Plus I didn't have to open anything to heat it, that's a pain. After that we went on our 4 mile march. It was ok, quite long and cold. It was the day that it snowed about 4". All the while we were walking though it. After that we had practice fire team scenario we got to play out. Basically you give commands and attack a yellow box (in the snow). After that we had a MRE. Then went to the leadership course. Remember those videos with candidates doing things with ammo cans? Problem solving. I had a really tough one but I passed it. I also passed the compass test! That stupid written test is what killed me!
The Corpsmen (nurses) are AWESOME! They've been very kind and helpful, gone way out of their way to help me. I have been in sick bay since 5:30. I am going to get another IV which will last another 4-5 hours, so I'll be bored and hanging out. Prayer requests are pretty straight forward. I'll be up on my feet, best case, 3 days. I miss you and can't wait to see you!
Letter 2: Thursday, Jan 29
"I'm still in sick bay. I have cellulitus, which is basically an infection. They say my knee is full of puss (Gross.). It's pretty painful, but at least I' not missing any test of events today. I'm a little worried about libo, but I'm sure we'll be able to see each other at some point. It sounds like you'll be able to come pick me up where I dropped me off. So that's cool. My knee is so swollen and sore. I am having mixed emotions. Does this mean God wants me to do something else, or does it men He wants me to stay? My only thing that bugs me is the amount of time away from loved ones, like you.
I received your letters What a blessing it is to hear from you. It always makes me feel much better. I've lost more weight. I'm down to 222 lbs. Only another 14 to go! I was up til 12:00+ last night taking notes from my "knowledge" book. You're not allowed to study unless everyone else can. So, I took a lot of notes so I can review them now in the hospital bed. Once we meet up I'm going to have some errands for you to do. I'll have you make copies of a 5 paragraph order, shrink them and laminate them. I know, a lot of work, but I need it. This is assuming everything goes through and I don't get DQed. I have a real peace about it though. God is in control; whatever happens we'll always be happy together. Maybe God wants me to open a gym once you make me rich from the book. HAHA! Wouldn't that be the life? ou writing books, me a physical trainer (I don't want to own a gym, too much work), and babies. I believe I can miss 5 straight days before I get DQed, so this is day 2.
Your letters are so busy. I'm glad to hear it. Once the weekend is here we can see each other once a week then it's all down hill from there. I only have one more essay to write this week. I finished my 1st one in this bed. I came prepared today.
I love you! See you soon!
Letter 3: Thursday, Jan 29
It's still Thursday. I'm back from sick bay. My status is SIQ (sick in quarters). I have to lay in bed and do nothing. I can't even study because that would be an integrity violation. It looks like my leg will get better and I'll be able to push through. I shouldn't be writing you. I should sleep, but I have the time. Once libo hits, it's ON! Since we're duty plt, we each have 3 hr shifts. I don't know when mine will be on Saturday. I hope it's either really early or late, that way we can be together longer. On Sunday, we only have fire watch, so we'll see how that goes. But the week after that it'll only be fire watch! So, we'll be able to hang out at Tony and Melody's.
I'm soooo hungry all the time. When you report to sick bay all you get is an MRE. Then you have to wait and hope the chain of command knows you're in sick bay and sends food. I didn't get fed until 14:30, breakfast was at 5:30. That's a long stinking time.
Tomorrow morning is inspection. I hope and pray I'm in sick bay when that goes down, that way I'll miss it. I can't get out of bed, so my locker is crap. My Corpsman (Amaya)said he'd keep me as long as he could, so that's pretty cool of him. I'm craving a pizzahut meatlovers with that monster crust or whatever it's called. That sounds sooo good. Oh, I keep getting off topic. An inspection is when you have to have everything put away in a certain place and size. ex: 3 boot socks, bi-fold, toes facing inboard (PUKE). Then, you have to put all you 782 gear on your bunk in a special little magical order. Then you stand at attention and get yelled at. ex: "Your breath stinks... you need to find the cat that crapped down your throat and KILL IT!" Fun, huh?
I got a chit yesterday. Chits are pieces of paper that say "favorable" (I don't know why, that one is never checked), "marginal" and "unfavorable". I received "unfavorable" because I failed to place my locker on zero... zero! zero! (They think they're funny). I can't wait to mess with them once I'm a Lt. I have so many questions, like, "What do you think..? How much can you bench press?...I need a 300 word essay on why you're ugly..."
The time is so near to being together. I can't wait to laugh, cry and be with you. Well, I need sleep so I can work through the night. Love you with all my heart. Tell everyone hi and thanks for the prayers.
Friday, January 30, 2009
OCS-Week 1 pics
Here are a few pics from the OCS website of Kellen. In the first one I'm pretty sure he's set to run in the front line about 2/3 to the right (shorts, t-shirt and gloves), and the bottom 2 are of him getting his hair cut, or shaved!
There are lots more pics on the site, but I couldn't spot him in any.
Thanks for your continued prayers. After week 4 the "hard part" is over, but I know it won't be easy.
I'm still anticipating seeing him this weekend. Looks like the worst case scenario is we just talk on the phone Sat pm and then hangout on base Sunday-- which as far as I'm concerned is FANTASTIC since I've not seen him or spoken to him in three weeks! Now the easy part starts for me. Living from letter to letter stinks, but weekend visit to weekend visit is a bit more doable!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Mail Call!
Well, finally my letters got to him. And with another letter from him today, it now seems like I may not have to wait "forever" between letters, and even if I do it's less discouraging since I know I should get to see him on the weekends from now on. Here's what he writes...
Letter 10- Wednesday, Jan 21
I have finally gotten your letters!! I am so happy, happy!! I love you so much. You may not get some letters because I addressed them all 3309. Oops... it's pretty stressful here.
I was on fire watch but some people got busted for sleeping in class, so they have to do it!! HAHA... I get to write you again.
There are so many things I want to tell you when they happen, but when I sit down to write I go blank.
It looks like liberty is on Saturday the 31st. But I'll be on duty, so I'll have to run back and forth and won't be able to leave base.
We did the O-course yesterday and I kicked major butt. The physical stuff at OCS is going to be easy. I'm the most well rounded guy strength/endurance. I'm soooo glad I did that Navy Seal exercise program. The guy who played in the NFL is in my 3am study group. His name is Tate. He's a giant. He played offense tackle, same as I. I don't know if he's a Christian, but he goes to all the church services and talks like one.
He, along with Moore and Lefever are my best friends. Moore and Lefever are both former Marines trying to become officers. Moore was a staff sgt and Lefever was a sgt. They're both married and families are all on the west coast. I feel bad for them.
I'm hungry! The food is great though. I eat so many vegetables! I'm running out of gear. When you come up next Sat/Sun we'll have to go shopping. The only good thing about having duty is that the next Sat/Sun I'll be FREE!! I need a break to sleep and eat slow and not have to walk over a bridge to get there.
Letter 11- Thursday, Jan 22
Happy B-day to you!!
Aren't you lucky? You get letters back to back. They gave us more time to study today so I'm set for tomorrow. Things are going to be crazy.
What we're doing now is basically all the OCS Candidates are "running" to USMC at OCS. But when things don't go perfect- BAM! Anyway, they put all the guys they want sent home in the toughest Billet. Stinks for them. I'm still only a pre war, but I have friends in high places. This is kinda like survivor.
Today we did PT again and at the end I had bad cramps in my calves. They say, "Drink water!", but if you do you never know if you'll get to pee.
I got Mom & Dad's letters today, which was super. Only 9 days left till we can see each other, or at least talk on the phone Sat night. As soon as I figure out details, AKA they tell us what's going on, I'll tell you. The good thing is once we've had duty we never have to do it again. So for our anniversary we'll be able to rock out! I'm soooo hungry all the time... But I'm looking pretty good! For only being here 2 1/2 weeks or something.
There's so much pressure here! But I feel pretty good about it. I'll try my best and if I make it give God the glory and if not, give God the glory. My shoulder was pretty sore after PT. I'm a little nervous about that.
Well, tonight I have fire watch from 1-2am. Puke! We have soooo many tests and stuff to do. And it's all like if you fail, you go home. Which to do honest wouldn't hurt that bad. But I need to do what God wants.
Tell Dad & Mom thanks for the letters and info. I love you and miss you so much. The only way I've been making it is thinking of you and the next meal.
Letter 10- Wednesday, Jan 21
I have finally gotten your letters!! I am so happy, happy!! I love you so much. You may not get some letters because I addressed them all 3309. Oops... it's pretty stressful here.
I was on fire watch but some people got busted for sleeping in class, so they have to do it!! HAHA... I get to write you again.
There are so many things I want to tell you when they happen, but when I sit down to write I go blank.
It looks like liberty is on Saturday the 31st. But I'll be on duty, so I'll have to run back and forth and won't be able to leave base.
We did the O-course yesterday and I kicked major butt. The physical stuff at OCS is going to be easy. I'm the most well rounded guy strength/endurance. I'm soooo glad I did that Navy Seal exercise program. The guy who played in the NFL is in my 3am study group. His name is Tate. He's a giant. He played offense tackle, same as I. I don't know if he's a Christian, but he goes to all the church services and talks like one.
He, along with Moore and Lefever are my best friends. Moore and Lefever are both former Marines trying to become officers. Moore was a staff sgt and Lefever was a sgt. They're both married and families are all on the west coast. I feel bad for them.
I'm hungry! The food is great though. I eat so many vegetables! I'm running out of gear. When you come up next Sat/Sun we'll have to go shopping. The only good thing about having duty is that the next Sat/Sun I'll be FREE!! I need a break to sleep and eat slow and not have to walk over a bridge to get there.
Letter 11- Thursday, Jan 22
Happy B-day to you!!
Aren't you lucky? You get letters back to back. They gave us more time to study today so I'm set for tomorrow. Things are going to be crazy.
What we're doing now is basically all the OCS Candidates are "running" to USMC at OCS. But when things don't go perfect- BAM! Anyway, they put all the guys they want sent home in the toughest Billet. Stinks for them. I'm still only a pre war, but I have friends in high places. This is kinda like survivor.
Today we did PT again and at the end I had bad cramps in my calves. They say, "Drink water!", but if you do you never know if you'll get to pee.
I got Mom & Dad's letters today, which was super. Only 9 days left till we can see each other, or at least talk on the phone Sat night. As soon as I figure out details, AKA they tell us what's going on, I'll tell you. The good thing is once we've had duty we never have to do it again. So for our anniversary we'll be able to rock out! I'm soooo hungry all the time... But I'm looking pretty good! For only being here 2 1/2 weeks or something.
There's so much pressure here! But I feel pretty good about it. I'll try my best and if I make it give God the glory and if not, give God the glory. My shoulder was pretty sore after PT. I'm a little nervous about that.
Well, tonight I have fire watch from 1-2am. Puke! We have soooo many tests and stuff to do. And it's all like if you fail, you go home. Which to do honest wouldn't hurt that bad. But I need to do what God wants.
Tell Dad & Mom thanks for the letters and info. I love you and miss you so much. The only way I've been making it is thinking of you and the next meal.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
More Letters, and Great News!!
I mailed Kellen as soon as I got his address, but the MLK jr holiday really threw off the mail delivery making both of us wait and wait for each others' letters. I was SO bummed going a whole week without any word from Kellen. Then, on Saturday, I went to the mailbox and found THREE envelopes from him! I was thrilled- but the best part is what one of the letters said.
He has liberty starting Jan 31st- that's less than a week away people! I am on cloud 9, especially compared to how low I was on Friday afternoon.
I'll try my best to sum up his letters, by typing up the meatiest parts.
Thanks for your continued prayers for Kellen and me- we really appreciate it and if you've been writing him THANK YOU! He really can use the midweek pick-me-ups that your encouraging letters offer. I'll put his address below for those who'd like to write him.
Candidate Lake, Kellen, K. 1252
OCS, C Company, 2nd Platoon
2189 Elrod Ave
Quantico, VA 22134-5033
Also- if you want more info you can check out the Marines OCS website. You may eventually be able to see pics of Kellen by clicking on the links on the left hand side of the site below. Just look for him in C Company, 2nd platoon.
http://www.ocs.usmc.mil/
Letter 3- Monday Jan 12
"The good news is I passed the MEPS (medical)stuff. So that was a nice "Thank You" to the Big Man Upstairs. Academically I am ahead of the game, so I get to write more, but after this letter, don't expect a ton as often. I only have X amount of stamps. When they had the photo guy taking pics of us getting stuff 60% of all his photos were of me. I must have "The Look" (lol)
I am ready to take the PFT and start doing some of the physical stuff.Colonel Marine (British guy) has two huge arm tattoos of dragons. Like I said, he looks the part. But you can tell he isn't going to be as hard like some of the other Sgts.
At MEPS I only had to get 4 shots! Most guys had to get 9+. Pull ups are going to suck for them.
My body feels great. This down time is going a long way. I'm not sore for the first time in I don't know how long.
I have made about 16 name tape stamp labels. SO hopefully that won't slow me down. I can tell already that I should have practiced taking my clothes on and off really fast.
We got our boots and uniform today. Remember when I said I hope I got Danner lights? Well, I did! So I'm thankful for that. Plus, I look pretty good in a uniform (But you knew that already, didn't you?)"
Letter 4- Tuesday Jan 13
We did the PFT today. I scored a 283! It would have been 288, but I didn't perform the last pull-up. I didn't go all the way according to the monitor. I got 19 pull ups, 100 crunches and a 19:55 three mile run. So I am pretty proud of that.
Right now I am waiting in line to see the Colonel about my weight. I feel pretty confident I have to say, "Good afternoon, sir. Candidate Lake reporting to Commanding officer of OCS as ordered" Then I get grilled.
Well, that's over with. I passed with flying colors! I am so happy, God made me sound like a genius. I was in there for a while with a ton of officers and the colonel. He asked me some questions, I answered. I told him I was college football, etc etc. Then I told him my parents were missionaries, which led to a religious conversation. I told him of why I wanted to be a marine and how you had said "anything but a marine" And how when we went to get military info you said "Go with the Marines" All the officers and the colonel tried not to laugh at that statement. He said "that's a very moving story Lake." And after a Master Gun Sgt said as I was going out the door, "Great job, Lake." Pray that I lose the weight!
I prayed with another candidate because he was in the same boat as I was and God came through for him as well. So please keep praying and spreading the word to others.
Letter 6- Friday, Jan 16
Well, the crap has hit the fan. It is starting to get old. It is now the end of day 3 and everyone has a 300 words essay to write as well as some homework. The worst part is in the last three days I might have gotten a total of 8-9 hrs of sleep. Last night I got 2. They had mail call today and I didn't get anything. I almost cried. It is very tough when you are just hoping to hear from the person who means everything to you. So, please write me. It would mean A LOT! It is easy to be here, but it is also Very Very stressful. So little sleep, so so much to do.
But, that being said, the instructors like me. I do what they say when they say it. I need to do a ton of other stuff. It's 10pm now, so maybe I'll be in bed early around 12 or 1am.
Letter 7- Sunday, Jan 18
Things were wonderful today. I went to church. We played on the obstacle course. It wasn't near as horrible as things have been. I made it. There's a guy in my platoon who used to play in the NFL. It's like a who's who. I can't believe I made it. Tomorrow we run OCS. Lucky for me I didn't get a billet. I should be studying and I am definitely buying a head lamp. Things until today were crazy tough. We were all operating on 2-3 hours of interrupted sleep a night. Some none. I don't know if I've lost weight, but my abs are looking good. Today was first I had time to look at myself in the mirror. Please have people write me. I need the encouragement.
Letter 8- Tuesday, Jan 20
My liberty weekend kind of is on the 31st of Jan. It starts at 4pm I believe, but my company has duty, so that sucks. But I will be able to leave at some point. And I really really want and need to see you.
I'm standing in line to get a hair cut. Things have been ok. I get like 3-4 hours of sleep if I'm lucky. They give us so much crap to do like mark gear. We had prayer & praise last night. There are a lot of good guys here and I am making some good friends.
I am now at my bunk and they have given us "free time". I can't believe it. I have a test on Friday and an essay due Sunday at 5am, so if this isn't love I don't know what is.
Letter 9- Wednesday, Jan 21
Well tomorrow is your big day (birthday). I hope you have something wonderful in mind and trust me I wish I could be there. I love you so much. I can't wait to see you the 31st.
It's been crazy. The highs are high and the lows are low. I love PT time. That's when I never get yelled at because I'm always one of the top performers.
My favorite Sergent Instructor is Gunnery Sgt Keith. He thinks he is big and buff (he is), but he tries to make it bigger than it really is. He really likes me, I can tell. I can't stand Staff Sgt Walters. He always makes us play 'games' like "rip up your sheets and throw them in a pile and then make your bed up in 30 secs". The worst part is the chow hall is about 3/4 mile away. So we have to get dressed. Which, depending on the amount of "games" are played can take for ever! About 300 yards from the chow hall is this huge bridge. Which we have to march over 6 times a day. If I graduate and become CO of this place I'm going to bomb it.
Please keep praying for me. The schedule is very busy and demanding. We start at 4am and don't get free time until 9pm. But we have to stay in our racks for an hour before we can get up and do things in the dark.
I need you to buy me a head lamp with a red lens! Very important! If I had that I could study much easier. It must be pretty hard for you right now. At least I am busy, but whenever I have time all I want is to spend it with you.
I love chapel. It's the highlight of my time here. The chaplain is so/so, but it's still nice to be able to get energized. It's hard though, because if you don't go you get time to do homework.
My company has duty on our liberty weekend, so that might mean that I will only be able to go to Quantico base. But you will be able to come one I'm sure, or Tony or Melody could get you on. I can't wait. It's only 10 days away. Jan 31st.
I believe we get mail call tonight. We've only had it once! There was a long holiday, so I'm hoping I get some!! Well, I need to write an essay and study.
Love you so much!
Your husband!
Kellen
He has liberty starting Jan 31st- that's less than a week away people! I am on cloud 9, especially compared to how low I was on Friday afternoon.
I'll try my best to sum up his letters, by typing up the meatiest parts.
Thanks for your continued prayers for Kellen and me- we really appreciate it and if you've been writing him THANK YOU! He really can use the midweek pick-me-ups that your encouraging letters offer. I'll put his address below for those who'd like to write him.
Candidate Lake, Kellen, K. 1252
OCS, C Company, 2nd Platoon
2189 Elrod Ave
Quantico, VA 22134-5033
Also- if you want more info you can check out the Marines OCS website. You may eventually be able to see pics of Kellen by clicking on the links on the left hand side of the site below. Just look for him in C Company, 2nd platoon.
http://www.ocs.usmc.mil/
Letter 3- Monday Jan 12
"The good news is I passed the MEPS (medical)stuff. So that was a nice "Thank You" to the Big Man Upstairs. Academically I am ahead of the game, so I get to write more, but after this letter, don't expect a ton as often. I only have X amount of stamps. When they had the photo guy taking pics of us getting stuff 60% of all his photos were of me. I must have "The Look" (lol)
I am ready to take the PFT and start doing some of the physical stuff.Colonel Marine (British guy) has two huge arm tattoos of dragons. Like I said, he looks the part. But you can tell he isn't going to be as hard like some of the other Sgts.
At MEPS I only had to get 4 shots! Most guys had to get 9+. Pull ups are going to suck for them.
My body feels great. This down time is going a long way. I'm not sore for the first time in I don't know how long.
I have made about 16 name tape stamp labels. SO hopefully that won't slow me down. I can tell already that I should have practiced taking my clothes on and off really fast.
We got our boots and uniform today. Remember when I said I hope I got Danner lights? Well, I did! So I'm thankful for that. Plus, I look pretty good in a uniform (But you knew that already, didn't you?)"
Letter 4- Tuesday Jan 13
We did the PFT today. I scored a 283! It would have been 288, but I didn't perform the last pull-up. I didn't go all the way according to the monitor. I got 19 pull ups, 100 crunches and a 19:55 three mile run. So I am pretty proud of that.
Right now I am waiting in line to see the Colonel about my weight. I feel pretty confident I have to say, "Good afternoon, sir. Candidate Lake reporting to Commanding officer of OCS as ordered" Then I get grilled.
Well, that's over with. I passed with flying colors! I am so happy, God made me sound like a genius. I was in there for a while with a ton of officers and the colonel. He asked me some questions, I answered. I told him I was college football, etc etc. Then I told him my parents were missionaries, which led to a religious conversation. I told him of why I wanted to be a marine and how you had said "anything but a marine" And how when we went to get military info you said "Go with the Marines" All the officers and the colonel tried not to laugh at that statement. He said "that's a very moving story Lake." And after a Master Gun Sgt said as I was going out the door, "Great job, Lake." Pray that I lose the weight!
I prayed with another candidate because he was in the same boat as I was and God came through for him as well. So please keep praying and spreading the word to others.
Letter 6- Friday, Jan 16
Well, the crap has hit the fan. It is starting to get old. It is now the end of day 3 and everyone has a 300 words essay to write as well as some homework. The worst part is in the last three days I might have gotten a total of 8-9 hrs of sleep. Last night I got 2. They had mail call today and I didn't get anything. I almost cried. It is very tough when you are just hoping to hear from the person who means everything to you. So, please write me. It would mean A LOT! It is easy to be here, but it is also Very Very stressful. So little sleep, so so much to do.
But, that being said, the instructors like me. I do what they say when they say it. I need to do a ton of other stuff. It's 10pm now, so maybe I'll be in bed early around 12 or 1am.
Letter 7- Sunday, Jan 18
Things were wonderful today. I went to church. We played on the obstacle course. It wasn't near as horrible as things have been. I made it. There's a guy in my platoon who used to play in the NFL. It's like a who's who. I can't believe I made it. Tomorrow we run OCS. Lucky for me I didn't get a billet. I should be studying and I am definitely buying a head lamp. Things until today were crazy tough. We were all operating on 2-3 hours of interrupted sleep a night. Some none. I don't know if I've lost weight, but my abs are looking good. Today was first I had time to look at myself in the mirror. Please have people write me. I need the encouragement.
Letter 8- Tuesday, Jan 20
My liberty weekend kind of is on the 31st of Jan. It starts at 4pm I believe, but my company has duty, so that sucks. But I will be able to leave at some point. And I really really want and need to see you.
I'm standing in line to get a hair cut. Things have been ok. I get like 3-4 hours of sleep if I'm lucky. They give us so much crap to do like mark gear. We had prayer & praise last night. There are a lot of good guys here and I am making some good friends.
I am now at my bunk and they have given us "free time". I can't believe it. I have a test on Friday and an essay due Sunday at 5am, so if this isn't love I don't know what is.
Letter 9- Wednesday, Jan 21
Well tomorrow is your big day (birthday). I hope you have something wonderful in mind and trust me I wish I could be there. I love you so much. I can't wait to see you the 31st.
It's been crazy. The highs are high and the lows are low. I love PT time. That's when I never get yelled at because I'm always one of the top performers.
My favorite Sergent Instructor is Gunnery Sgt Keith. He thinks he is big and buff (he is), but he tries to make it bigger than it really is. He really likes me, I can tell. I can't stand Staff Sgt Walters. He always makes us play 'games' like "rip up your sheets and throw them in a pile and then make your bed up in 30 secs". The worst part is the chow hall is about 3/4 mile away. So we have to get dressed. Which, depending on the amount of "games" are played can take for ever! About 300 yards from the chow hall is this huge bridge. Which we have to march over 6 times a day. If I graduate and become CO of this place I'm going to bomb it.
Please keep praying for me. The schedule is very busy and demanding. We start at 4am and don't get free time until 9pm. But we have to stay in our racks for an hour before we can get up and do things in the dark.
I need you to buy me a head lamp with a red lens! Very important! If I had that I could study much easier. It must be pretty hard for you right now. At least I am busy, but whenever I have time all I want is to spend it with you.
I love chapel. It's the highlight of my time here. The chaplain is so/so, but it's still nice to be able to get energized. It's hard though, because if you don't go you get time to do homework.
My company has duty on our liberty weekend, so that might mean that I will only be able to go to Quantico base. But you will be able to come one I'm sure, or Tony or Melody could get you on. I can't wait. It's only 10 days away. Jan 31st.
I believe we get mail call tonight. We've only had it once! There was a long holiday, so I'm hoping I get some!! Well, I need to write an essay and study.
Love you so much!
Your husband!
Kellen
Friday, January 23, 2009
Letters
Kellen left for OCS in Quantico, VA on Jan 9. I received 2 letters the following Thursday and Friday, but nothing this week. In an effort to keep folks up to date I've started this blog. I thought I'd start by typing up the bulk of his last letters. That way you're as much up to date as I am. I believe they were written on that first weekend he was there, before the madness had really started. Capt Bernstein (who works at the Raleigh recruiting office) called last Friday and said he'd scored 283 out of 300 on the PFT (physical fitness test), so they were impressed with him. I'll keep you posted as he keeps me posted. In the meantime...
Letter 1:"Well guess what, I have some "free time". (Not really) If this ends quickly that's why. I love you and miss you.Things for now are building up to a head. We already had one guy go AWOL. The food is good- too good. Our PT Sergent is British and acts kind. I feel very fortunate to be with the guys I am with. There are numerous priors an those who are trying again. I won't lie, it's a lot more intense than I thought it was going to be.When we stand in formation before breakfast and dinner I pray and thank God for this opportunity. Please pray that I don't get hurt or beaten down.On a lighter note we all got our gear today and had to mark it. So there re like 250 guys with loads of crap in a tiny college style room all trying to make name tag stencils with scissors that broke if you looked at them wrong. But to my surprise everything went fairly smooth. We all had to write a 300 word autobiography. So for me that was pretty easy to do, just work from birth to present. Shoot I could write a book (hope yours is coming along)Anyway I think"
Letter 2:"Things are going well- kind of. I didn't make weight and my measurements were poor. Mainly because they measured me in a poor manner. I however prayed about it and feel confident that whatever happens is for the best. I will probably have to talk with Colonel about this issue. By the time you get this it will most likely be resolved. But pray anyway. Thank Him for directionThere is actually another MK here. He is from part of Africa. I am hoping that I can make a very solid Christian impression on my company and platoon. The above MK said he is so/so committed, so pray for him and maybe we can make a real difference.I would also like for you to call/write Capt Bernstein and tell her what an OUTSTANDING JOB she and all the members of the office have done. My packet is by far the most complete and has made my life a little easier. Please restate the above numerous times in a colorful manner.Things are getting tense. It is about 1 day to pick up. This is where they dump everything and really start yelling at you. Pray that I don't spaz. The MEPS check is today and we are waiting around to do that. I have SOOOOO much stuff to mark. It's a real pain!! Everything has to be regulation.So far on average we've gotten about 4-5 hours of sleep at most. Unless you have fire watch. Then it's even less. I had fire watch last night. I cleaned the head for about 30 mins and then walked around in my gear while everyone else was sleeping.Tomorrow is the PFT. So that's my time to show that I deserve to be here! Pray and give thanks for success!The food here is GREAT!! Everything is loaded (??) with calories, protein,,, and all healthy stuff. So if I do stay (God willing) I will be lean and mean.I don't know how many times I will be able to write. So if you don't hear anything by Friday, I've made it thru that issue.Other items to remember is pray that I'm focused due to sleep deprivation, don't get hurt, write essays efficiently and remember how to talk right and remember the rank structure.If ever my letters are cut short it is because things are going on and I didn't have time. I figure at this point quantity is better than quality.I miss you and think of you often. I can't wait to see you and hang out and stuff. But this is easier for me I'm sure because I always need to be doing something. I love you soo much!! xxxooo"
Letter 1:"Well guess what, I have some "free time". (Not really) If this ends quickly that's why. I love you and miss you.Things for now are building up to a head. We already had one guy go AWOL. The food is good- too good. Our PT Sergent is British and acts kind. I feel very fortunate to be with the guys I am with. There are numerous priors an those who are trying again. I won't lie, it's a lot more intense than I thought it was going to be.When we stand in formation before breakfast and dinner I pray and thank God for this opportunity. Please pray that I don't get hurt or beaten down.On a lighter note we all got our gear today and had to mark it. So there re like 250 guys with loads of crap in a tiny college style room all trying to make name tag stencils with scissors that broke if you looked at them wrong. But to my surprise everything went fairly smooth. We all had to write a 300 word autobiography. So for me that was pretty easy to do, just work from birth to present. Shoot I could write a book (hope yours is coming along)Anyway I think"
Letter 2:"Things are going well- kind of. I didn't make weight and my measurements were poor. Mainly because they measured me in a poor manner. I however prayed about it and feel confident that whatever happens is for the best. I will probably have to talk with Colonel about this issue. By the time you get this it will most likely be resolved. But pray anyway. Thank Him for directionThere is actually another MK here. He is from part of Africa. I am hoping that I can make a very solid Christian impression on my company and platoon. The above MK said he is so/so committed, so pray for him and maybe we can make a real difference.I would also like for you to call/write Capt Bernstein and tell her what an OUTSTANDING JOB she and all the members of the office have done. My packet is by far the most complete and has made my life a little easier. Please restate the above numerous times in a colorful manner.Things are getting tense. It is about 1 day to pick up. This is where they dump everything and really start yelling at you. Pray that I don't spaz. The MEPS check is today and we are waiting around to do that. I have SOOOOO much stuff to mark. It's a real pain!! Everything has to be regulation.So far on average we've gotten about 4-5 hours of sleep at most. Unless you have fire watch. Then it's even less. I had fire watch last night. I cleaned the head for about 30 mins and then walked around in my gear while everyone else was sleeping.Tomorrow is the PFT. So that's my time to show that I deserve to be here! Pray and give thanks for success!The food here is GREAT!! Everything is loaded (??) with calories, protein,,, and all healthy stuff. So if I do stay (God willing) I will be lean and mean.I don't know how many times I will be able to write. So if you don't hear anything by Friday, I've made it thru that issue.Other items to remember is pray that I'm focused due to sleep deprivation, don't get hurt, write essays efficiently and remember how to talk right and remember the rank structure.If ever my letters are cut short it is because things are going on and I didn't have time. I figure at this point quantity is better than quality.I miss you and think of you often. I can't wait to see you and hang out and stuff. But this is easier for me I'm sure because I always need to be doing something. I love you soo much!! xxxooo"
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