Pre-deployment training, part 5

This one brings everybody up to 25 February 2007, Camp Shelby, MS:

Hello Everyone!

It's a sleepy Sunday here in beautiful Camp Shelby. Actually, don't take that description to heart. I don't really have that much to report but thought a few quick comments would be in order. We've been done with our required training since the 11th. Basically, we're just waiting for our expected ship date. For me it will be sometime around the 9th of March. So in the meantime we get to enjoy an all-expenses paid stay at this premium resort facility. It's complete with a mess hall where at least once a week you can recall your childhood with meals like corndogs and hot pockets. The labyrinth of sidewalks go nowhere and were most likely the results of local boy scouts completing their Eagle projects. There's beer for sale in the PX but we can't buy any. I did discover something unexpected - Camp Shelby does have an incredibly nice museum. It covers both the history of the Camp and it's association with the wars of our nation dating back to the Civil War.

Ah but there is relief coming in the form of a 4-day pass. It will be next weekend. I must apologize to all my friends in Providence because I won't be spending it there (too much of a weather risk on my travel). Instead I'll be spending part of the pass in Memphis, TN with Jacqueline. Then we'll be joining my parents in Tunica, MS at their favorite casino. Anyone planning on being in Memphis next weekend? Let me know so we can get together. What about my "days without" counter? Good question. General Order #1 is not in effect during my pass. So the counter will get reset to zero and start over after the pass.

I'm so glad that I'll be putting Camp Shelby in the rear-view mirror soon. As hard as it may seem to believe, my living arrangements will be so much better in Balad. Camp Shelby is retro-Army dating back to the days when Nathan Bedford Forrest was leading his cavalry at Brice's Crossroads (that's Civil War for you all who are history challenged). I get the impression that running water was only recently introduced around here.

Ok so I'm just rambling now. Thanks to all of you who have dropped me a line. I love hearing from all of you. Please don't hesitate to let me know what's up with you. Until next time!

Days without a beer: 41