Columbia, SC: Family Night

Today was family night, where the families got to visit on base, but had to stay on base.

It was awesome being able to see the change in Ashley, as in many of the new soldiers.  What really got me, though, was how young so many of these soldiers were.  Many were 18/19 years old, and I pray that they never see war.  I am 25 years old, not much older, and it was strange how I felt sort of protective over them...  I felt that others there felt the same.  They are adults, and are being trained to fight, but they are still young, and need all sorts of support.  

Here are some photos from the night.

 

South Carolina... getting there...

On the way to South Carolina.

My next adventure… to see my cousin graduate at Fort Jackson, Columbia, South Carolina.  I took off from the Ontario International Airport, and made a lot of friends there, interestingly enough-  It was the friendliest airport.  This flight was headed to Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, and was the connecting flight to other smaller airports around the country. So each person was heading to a different place, for many different reasons, and it was interesting hearing them. 

From Dallas, I headed to Columbia, South Carolina, on the smallest airplane I have ever been on. Apparently, flying into more rural areas, requires flights into regional airports, involving many connections. 

The airport was the quietest I have ever seen an airport, and there were random white rocking chairs everywhere.  It was a weird mix between nice and comfy, and a tiny bit creepy. 

Then, I took a taxi to meet up with my Cousins and Aunt, at the Fort Jackson Px… And here we are!!!!

Surf City 5k

Surf City 5k!!

I have completed a 5k obstacle course before, but this is my first time running (or jogging) a full 5k. 

My final time 45:56 minutes for 3.16 miles. 

I got nervous near the end, because I have never jogged beyond 2.5 miles, and so I slowed down.  

Update:  Now that I know I can do a 5k, I am working on getting a faster running time, and pushing towards a 10k.  The other day, I did 3 miles in 42:54 minutes. Slowly, but surely! 

5k coming up!

Another 5k is coming up, and I have been training and able to do more than I have ever been able to do.  I am still not a fast runner, but coming from a place where I couldn't even run a lap, I am doing well.  I can now jog 2 miles without stopping, and theoretically 2.5/3.0 miles.

I went from jogging a very slow 15:22 min/mile, to 14:30 min/mile, to 13:55 min/mile, and  finally to 13:23 today.  Slowly going down.

Nervous and Excited!!!!!

The Newest Storm...

My newest storm and mountain to climb these days, is the uncertain future that lies ahead, and the fear that is constantly wanting to meet me.

Rainy Days on Wednesdays always lift me up :)

First, you are never too old to jump in puddles, although you do need the right gear to do it.

I guess the correct term is Pluviophile, but I truly love the rain, and feel the best when it is raining and storming outside.  I feel so at ease with the rain.  Love it!

And tea (coffee) time.

It is the little things in life that make it beautiful... that and nice teacups. They are pretty!

A Heart Beneath Stone

Ok, so I stole the title from a beautiful chapter in Les Miserables, but I think it applies wonderfully here.  I have met a lot of interesting people in my life, and some who were very harden people.  So many people have seen some rough stuff, and their hearts have hardened as a result of being left in the elements for far too long.  I've heard stories from victims, military, law enforcement, even perpetrators, that are impossible to forget or shake... that haunt you, and I've seen and experienced things myself.  But it never fails to amaze me how little wonders this world has to offer, like the innocence of children, a smile, love, compassion, affection, etc., can impose so much hope and light into a darkened world.

So much happened this year.  Some horrible things, and some pretty awesome ones, but the roller coaster ride, regardless, has been exhausting.  I have especially learned how much I guard my heart, and simply do not put my trust in the hands of really anyone.  I keep my hope and love guarded, although I share glimpses of it at times, and allow others to share theirs with me.... and they often do.  I spilled it to one person during year, and felt emotionally safe for the first time with person I just met.  I think mostly it was because they themselves had been through so much and were opening up at the same time.  

"...to love at all is to be vulnerable." - CS Lewis