From Darcy, With Love

3 months down! “They” said that this is about the time when people would get annoyed with one another. “They” were right. You hear a little bickering here and there – especially in the living spaces. I’m sure it’ll die down. I’ve discovered that even if it appears as though others are compromising their character, it’s important to focus on maintaining your own character. It gets hard out here when other people have don’t follow by the same internal rules as you are trying to adhere, too, though. We’re all sinners! Alright, that’s boring.

It’s been REALLY hot out here. Not only that, but it’s been very windy – more sandstorms than usual. Good thing Jeff sent me a scuba mask! I’ll take a pic of it in a sandstorm to show you all that it works. I was running today… only about 22 mins in, and the sandstorm started. Unfortunately, I was doing an out-and-back run, so I was 22 mins away from my tent. I ran back like a champ, but it was a bit painful. It’s difficult running with your eyes closed for as long as possible. Good thing I had sunglasses on. Even with those it wasn’t fun! When I got back, my hair was coated in dust – EVERYTHING was coated in dust. Very fun.

I try to run a lot. It helps start my day and keep my energy up. I also do MCMAP (Marine Corps Martial Arts Program) everyday. I came into “Country” with a gray belt (the 2nd in the five-belt program). I now have a green belt. I should test out for brown belt this Saturday, and about 70 hrs of training from then, I will test out on my black belt! This is a great time to get this training in. Soon, it will be mandatory for all Officers to have green belts. I want to get as high as I can before I get back to the states. I’d rather spend the time doing it now, rather than take the time away from my husband/family when I’m at home.

I’m sure you’ve heard of all of the bad “stuff” going on here. I don’t often get to see what you guys are fed via the media. I usually know what happens a very short while after it occurs (i.e. the high-profile Pedro helo incident). It’s definitely difficult to be so close to these horrible situations. You have to learn to not let yourself think too deeply about anything -- and do your best to fulfill your mission.

As for Engineering, I’ve been learning a lot about concrete and vertical construction as of late. I’m doing my day-to-day job, and have a good handle on not only what I need to accomplish every day, but how to talk to my main points of contact (most of all are higher than me in rank). I try to keep things interesting by doing those extra activities (running, MCMAP, and singing with the Worship Team for church).

About singing for the Worship Team, after going to the Sunday night service a couple weeks in a row, I offered my help in regards to singing. The Marines leading worship are talented musicians, primarily, and it was difficult for them to focus on singing. They gladly accepted. I rehearse with them 30 mins, 4 days a week and sing at the Sunday night service. It’s a GREAT way to do one of my favorite hobbies out here while also being able to lead others in worship and praise the Lord, myself. I’m very happy I approached them about it. I wish there was a group at home I could get involved with. I really miss singing.

Alright, I guess that’s it for now – nothing really interesting or important. Oh! I forgot to mention that Toby Keith did a short concert in early May and David Beckham came for a meet-n-greet. I missed the meet-n-greet, but I did get a pic of him walking out of my unit’s compound. Unfortunately, the lady next to him blocked his face. Sad.

Lastly, I want to formally congratulate my wonderful, beautiful friend, Lindsay (one of my bridesmaids) on getting ENGAGED!!! She is a fantastic friend, and I miss her a ton! I can’t wait to celebrate with her and her soon-to-be husband, Steve. Lindsay is a lawyer in Colorado. She sings and is a kick-butt, motivated runner. I’m proud to know her.

Love from Afghanistan!

p.s. This is Ellen....I uploaded this entry for Darcy but can't figure out how to get her pictures here. I'll make a new entry when I figure it out :)