Made it to Nashville

We arrived safely in Nashville last night after a near touch-and-go in our Airbus as we came into Nashville International Airport. The pilot reported that a plane had not cleared the runway and so we needed to make another go around.

Please pray for Jon. He came down with a bug Sunday night and did not feel well through out our day of travel and had a bad night last night. He's up now (noon) taking a shower and hoping he'll be able to make it to dinner tonight to celebrate Grandpa Baker's 100th birthday. Joshua and I are still feeling fine, although freezing.

We walked across the street to Target this morning and couldn't believe how cold it is outside. But is beautiful -- clear, blue sky -- just cold.

Happy New Year everyone.

Sheryl

Christmas Eve 2009

We had a wonderful, worshipful time at the 5:30 pm Christmas Eve service at our church tonight. Then it was home to chicken noodle soup provided by our good friend Kris. We followed that with a showing of "White Christmas." We were all together cuddled up in the living room. I finally got Joshua to sleep at 11:00, filled the stockings and uploaded the pictures from this evening. :)

Merry Christmas. We are off to Sandy and Sonny's in the morning. We should be reachable on my cell phone, assuming I hear it ring. :)

Sheryl

Happy 10th Birthday to Joshua

We celebrated Joshua's birthday in style at Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor with 10 other members of my family. We had a great time and stuffed ourselves. I can't believe my baby has reached double digits. We head to Nashville next week to celebrate Jon's Grandpa Baker's 100th birthday!

Sheryl

Our church builds a home in Mexico

Last weekend Jon spent two days in the rain building a house for a family on the outskirts of Tijuana, Mexico. He was there with a team of 23 from our church. One man took hundreds of pictures, another made a slide show with music and now it is on YouTube, so check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxyb7_05uEY

Joshua's Soccer Season Ends

Yesterday Joshua's soccer team had a win and a rough loss to one of the stronger teams in their group. Today their team played the weakest team in the group and won 4 - 0, but unfortunately it was not enough for them to make it to the top two in our group, so the season ended at about noon today. The kids all played a great game today and Joshua was a forward for a quarter and a half and had some great shots on goal. Unfortunately he did not score, but he did save a goal from going in when he was playing defense, so I think he is starting to realize how important good defenders are. He is one of the best defenders on the team and so has not had a lot of opportunities to score this year. I was very proud of him and it has been a fun season to watch the boys as they have improved in their skills.

Jon had a useful first day of the job fair and will have two interview tomorrow with potential employers. We don't know when yet, so if you could pray for him throughout the day, that would be great. Thanks.

Sheryl

Jon's Job Search

The Census Bureau job turned out to be a project that involves 3 days of work (1 day of training and 2 days of testing the Census Bureau computer system). Today is his 3rd and last day of work with them. He was told that they have other short project that he may be called for, but it is definitely not a 20 hour/week job, like I originally thought. But every little bit helps, so we are thankful.

For those of you in the immediate family, you have probably seen the information below, but for anyone else trying to keep up with our family, here is the latest on an interview Jon had on Tuesday for a job with US NORTH COM that will start in April and will be in San Diego. Here is Jon's report.


"The interview went well. There are four different parts to landing this job: one, the guy I'm replacing has to recommend me; two, my current commander (Reserve unit) has to agree to putting me on orders (he loses me for the duration--so I can no longer contribute to his unit as a subordinate leader--but having a Marine on Active duty is a positive for the Corps and reflects well on the unit); three, I have to pass an "administrative" screening "phone interview" to determine my qualifications and skill levels as they relate to the job at hand; four, the 2-star general who will be my boss will need to confirm the appointment following a short introduction.

As of today, we have just passed step one, and the current billet-holder will make a positive recommendation to his chain of command that I be selected for the billet (I do not believe there are any other contenders at this stage). Steps two through four will start taking place after 01 January, concluding with me potentially coming on orders during the month of March (during which time contenders may emerge, they will be considered based on merit, etc., possibly snagging the billet instead of me if they come out smelling better than me following the four step process above).

I'll keep you informed regarding how the process goes, please keep praying (as there is still much that needs to happen if I'm to get this job). Our prayer is not to land this job, necessarily, but that I will end up spending my time and effort in a place and in a way that most aligns with what God wills to accomplish through me for His Kingdom. We're currently NOT convinced that relocation would be best for our family right now, which is why we're pursuing local options--but we know relocation will quickly become necessary should doors close on local options."

Jon will be participating in a Specialized Job Fair this weekend in San Diego. He has already been told which companies will be there and what the positions are that they are looking to fill, so Jon will go prepared to interview for the specific jobs that fit his interest and ability.

Thanks for keep us in your prayers.

Oh, I should report that Joshua's soccer team will go to the AYSO Regional Championship Tournament this weekend. They have three games scheduled and depending on how well they do, they may have a 4th game. It will be a busy weekend, but lots of fun.

Sheryl

Thanksgiving 2009

It was great to have Jon home for Thanksgiving this year. He shared a bit at our church's Thanksgiving Eve service last night. Half of my family joined us in our home today. We ate a fabulous meal provided by everyone and then headed out to do some geocaching. We were 5 for 6 along a bike trail in Laguna Niguel on a beautiful November day in California. It was about 80 degrees today, blue sky, light breeze -- fabulous.

I forgot to post a message last weekend congratulating Joshua and his soccer team on winning the Boys U10 championship for our region. They ended the season 6-1-3 and will play in the regional play-off next weekend. Congratulations, Assassins!!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

Sheryl

Marine Corps Ball

Last weekend Jon and I were able to enjoy the Marine Corps Birthday Ball on a cruise boat in the San Diego Harbor. I had to rush south after Joshua's soccer game on Saturday to drop him off at my brother's house (Thanks, Steve & Sandi) for an overnight. Joshua had a great time with his cousin Evan. I made a quick change into my "fancy" clothes and then headed to the San Diego harbor to meet Jon, who was already down there for his reserve drill time.

Jon's unit had the entire lower deck of the boat for dinner, dancing and the program. I don't know anyone in his reserve unit, but it was fun to dress up and have a date with Jon. The program was appropriately formal and not too long, the food was delicious and the view through the windows and up on the top deck was beautiful. What was interesting to me is that the "ugly" side of the harbor where the Navy shipyards are was the most beautiful at night because of the lights everywhere, while the more beautiful Coronado Island was mostly dark, so not as interesting to view.

We spent the night at the BOQ (Bachelor's Officer's Quarters) on a Navy base in San Diego. In the morning we enjoyed some Starbucks, thanks to gift certificates from friends, and then took a leisurely stroll around the San Diego zoo, thanks to our memberships. Then it was off to pick up Joshua and head for home. It was a wonderful weekend celebration.

This week we had a little excitement when the Census Bureau called Jon and offered him a 20 hour/week job making $12.50 per hour. Now, in Southern California, that will not pay the bills for our family, so it was kind of good news/bad news. We are hoping this part-time work will allow Jon to pick up something a little higher paying or allow for future government jobs. In the near future, it messed up our plans for next week. Joshua's school district gives the kids the entire week of Thanksgiving off for the holiday, so I quickly e-mailed our friends and was blessed by e-mails from four friends willing to help. Joshua will end up spending Monday overnight through Tuesday at his good friend Maxi's house (Thanks, Karine and Klaus) and then Wednesday he'll get to go the Discovery Science Museum with his good friend Charlie (Thanks, Wyndi and Sergio). What a blessing to be a part of a community that cares for each other in such tangible ways.

Jon does have a few other full-time job possibilities that he is pursuing but it will take another couple months before those jobs are available. Thanks for your continued prayers.

Sheryl

Veteran's Day

This weekend our mobile home park celebrated Veteran's Day with a chili cook-off. Jon, Joshua and I attended. It was the first community dinner we ever attended and we were the youngest in attendance by almost 20 years. :) Joshua was the only child, but did a great job. After dinner there was a game of war trivia and Joshua ran around the hall delivering the prizes (leftover Halloween candy), which many of the folks gave to him. It was a fun time and we met some nice folks in our park.

Sunday Jon wore his dress blues to church since he will be in San Diego next weekend for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball and will have to miss church. After the services we went to Costco for our traditional $1.50 hot dog and soda lunch followed by free samples throughout the store. He was a bit overdressed, to say the least, but received many, many words of thanks from strangers who wanted to thank him (and me) for his service. It was quite sweet.

That's all the news for now.

Sheryl

Student Council

Joshua is running for Publicity Officer for his school's student council this year. This morning we helped all of the kids (4th & 5th graders) who are running for an office hang their posters around campus. It was fun to see their creativity and hear their excitement. Joshua, along with the other candidates, will be giving a speech to the 4th & 5th grade students (the ones allowed to vote) at an assembly on Friday. Wish I could be in there to hear him and the other kids.

Could this be the beginning of a political career? Let's hope not. :)

Sheryl

In Waiting Mode

Last week we had some rough news. Jon called his Census Bureau contact after returning from his trip to Europe only to be told that they had finished hiring and did not have any jobs to offer him. We were counting on Jon getting some work with the Census Bureau from November to April, but I guess that will not be the case.

Jon continues to look for civilian work as well as schools and short-term Marine Corps projects that he can get paid to do. So far he has only found a couple one-week USMC schools that he can be paid to attend. Please pray that he will find the right job in the next couple months. If he doesn't have anything by the new year, then we will probably need to make some major changes either in our life-style or in the location of our home. Please pray for wisdom to know when to make those changes and what they should be.

Thank you so much for your continued support.

Sheryl

Jon Home Safe and Sound

Jon arrived home this evening after three weeks in Europe. I had to give him a USMC regulation hair cut tonight since he heads to Miramar tomorrow morning early for the weekend drill with his reserve unit and he hasn't had a hair cut in all of that time. It is too bad that he'll miss my birthday tomorrow, but at least he is back in the same state as us this weekend. He'll be home Sunday night for good. No call from the Census Bureau yet, so looks like he'll have some time to rest, get caught up on e-mails and dive back into the job search.

Tomorrow I will celebrate my birthday with my mom, aunt Judy and Joshua over brunch followed by Joshua's soccer game and then I'm not sure what else for the late afternoon and evening. Oh, Jon did manage to squeeze two cups and saucers of Romanian china in his one bag ($50 extra to check a bag) for my birthday present. They are beautiful. He done good. :)

All for now.

Sheryl

20th Reunion for Class of 89

Okay, anyone who knows me at all will realize that I did not graduate either from high school or college in 1989, but I did attend last night's 20th reunion for the class of 89. That was the last of my five-year high school teaching career. I taught many of these students both Algebra I and Algebra II/Trig. I also coached many of these "kids" in both volleyball and swimming. I was able to connect with six of the girls who were on my first freshman volleyball team in 1985 (see picture). I have become facebook friends with many of them, but it was great to sit and talk together. I can't believe that it has been 20 years since I last taught. In some ways it feels like a life-time ago and in other ways it just doesn't seem that long ago. How can I be old enough to have quit my first career 20 years ago? Oh, how time flies.

Sheryl

A Bit About the Weather

Not much new to report, but I did ask Jon about the weather and this is what he reported, "The weather here has been great, maybe dropping to the high 40's for a couple nights, but mostly no colder than the low 50's. Highs during the day have been in the 70's, though the norm has been in the 60's. I have not needed my coat, and though it has rained, the rain has so far occurred at night."

Looking forward to him being home next weekend, although he'll spend most of it in San Diego, since his reserve unit will have a drill weekend. :( Oh, well, the side benefit of him not having a job yet is that he can catch up on his sleep the following week and spend some time with Joshua and me.

All for now.

Sheryl

Coffee and Pizza

More from Jon:

I realized there are a couple things I have not mentioned yet about this place in general that I find interesting. I know I've mentioned the coffee, but I am still amazed at the sheer number of coffee bars here. They are everywhere, on the main drag, on side streets, in overwhelming numbers. The amazing thing is they all appear to be doing a booming business, it does not appear that there is such a thing as too much of a good thing in Romanian minds when it comes to the availability of small shots of powerful caffeine.

Only second to the cafes are the pizza shops. In fact, adjacent to practically every coffee shop is a pizza joint. Some are fast food, some are closer to restaurants, it is absolutely amazing. The appetite for pizza must be never satiated. Perhaps there is some link between the jitters of a caffeine jolt and the soothing quality of a slice of deep dish slathered-in-cheese and stuff pizza.

I'm not sure what the national dishes are "officially," but in my mind, the ingestable items of choice here are coffee and pizza.

Sheryl

A Little More from Jon

Another e-mail had this description of activity in the town where Jon is right now, "There is a festival going on locally (started yesterday), it has a name, but I can't remember it. Anyway, it's basically a moonshine festival, all the local distilleries (private/family or public/corporate) showcase their hard core stuff. It is theoretically mind-blowing, I'm not going to touch the stuff, but some folks tried it out. There are also local fairs (with little carnival rides exactly the same as the rides I've seen in the States), and what appear to be swap meets and local once-a-week markets and such. This is quite a diverse town, and you don't have to go too far to get beyond the "suburbs" into agricultural communities."

Joshua and I had an enjoyable Sunday. After church we stopped at Costco for a hot dog lunch (the best deal in town even if it is not the healthiest). We finished reading "The Silver Chair" together -- me reading while Joshua played in the fort he built in the living room Friday afternoon. Then we took a bike ride out through the "country" portion of San Juan and stopped for a frozen yogurt along the way. The weather was perfect -- California fall -- I love it.

Sheryl

A Beautiful Place to be Working

Jon had some time to write last night, so he sent a beautiful description of the town where he currently is.

"I'll tell you a little more about my surroundings, etc. I've been getting up to run every morning, and generally hit the trail just before the sun comes up. This morning I crossed the bridge over a fairly wide placid river with a wide concrete promenade on one bank, lined the whole way with planters. The sunrise was spectacular, lighting the eastern sky with an incredible fiery glow. The river, placid at this point, acted as a reflecting pool, and the sunrise, the glowing sky, the river line, and buildings were all reflected in the river. At that moment , a large flock of birds took flight from the far river bank and wheeled through the sky--it was intensely beautiful, mysteriously peaceful, awe inspiring, and also somewhat personal (that God had prepared this moment for His pleasure and I got to sit in...). Well, I ran east following the river, and turned around to head back to the hotel. Facing west, the slightly past full moon was just off the horizon-line of the buildings in the town center. One church steeple in particular was almost silhouetted by the moon, and at the top of the steeple was an orthodox cross. Due to the back-lighting of the moon, I expected the cross to appear black; but the sun, just coming clear of the horizon behind me, lit the face of the cross with a mother-of-pearly luminescent glow. The effect was astonishing, and as I was still running along the bank of the river, it was all reflected... Truly a very visually stimulating morning, and all before the city was awake.

Of course, I should fill you in on the early morning hours prior to my run. The roosters started crowing at about 0330, not just one, but several. I don't know what happened to their body clocks, I'm sure their not suffering from jet lag like I am... Then the dogs started barking at about 0430. According to the 101 Dalmatians, the twilight bark takes place in the evening, but I can tell you that the dogs here conduct their gossip in the predawn. The city is littered with parks, the fall colors are coming in beautifully, and the smell of freshly fallen leaves (yesterday this was particularly pronounced, as it had rained during the night) permeates the air. The city is in a river valley, with gently rising ridges and peaceful valleys that seem to follow the course of the river (vice running at right angles to the river). The town is an incredible eclectic mix of buildings that were built hundreds of years ago and modern structures of steel and glass--and everything in between. The main element of sustainment here is coffee, served very strong, thick, and in small cups, generally less than 6 ounces--though there seems to be no limit to the number of cups one might drink... Being a life-time coffee lover, though having recently given it up, I just had to have a cup. It was truly good coffee, and I regret not being able to truly drown myself in it..." In case you are wondering, his blood pressure has been too high, so his doctor has told him to give up coffee. It has been about a month-long process so far, but his has noticed a drop in his blood pressure when he is not drinking lots of coffee every day. He has a portable blood pressure machine that he uses to keep track of his pressure each night.

All for now.

Sheryl

Family Birthday Party

Had a great time today at Emma and Eli's birthday party. Steve and Sandi hosted all of us at their home. Sandi's sister Jamie and family were in town and David & Leslie and family came, along with all of us So Cal Frances. The four boys (Evan, Joshua, Eli and Henry) had a great time playing Legos and building a huge fort in the living room. It was a beautiful afternoon in Escondido.

Sheryl

Jon at Final Destination

Just heard from Jon that he has reached his final destination. He wrote, "I just wanted you to know that I'm at my final destination. The first impressions of the town are: the trams (very loud, they run all night at (it seems like) ten minute intervals past the hotel; and the bells, there must be hundreds of churches with bells throughout the city (OK, the city is not big enough for hundreds of bells, but you get the idea) that all chime on the hour, etc., and though each individual bell is of course indistinguishable, the cacophony is a delight..."

I was able to talk to Jon briefly while he was in Germany preparing for this exercise. He had dinner with good friends of ours, which was very cool. That's about all for now.

Sheryl

Jon safely in Germany

I finally received an e-mail from Jon this morning letting me know in a short note that he arrived safely in Germany. He and the members of his team are meeting there for a few days to prepare for the exercise which will be in another country.

I'll try to post updates as I get them, although there probably won't be a lot of exciting news that he can pass on. All for now.

Sheryl

Soccer season

I don't think I've posted any soccer pictures yet this year. I was amazed that my very slow camera caught this shot while Joshua was warming up for the game this morning. The team had a hard earned 2-1 win over a very fast, tough team. That puts us at 3-0 for the season. Joshua and all of the boys are improving each game -- playing better as a team, playing their positions, improving their skills. It is very fun to watch.

Jon got off okay and should be well on his way to Europe.

Sheryl

Jon off to Europe

Jon has not gotten a full-time permanent job yet, but the Marine Corps has provided work via his Reserve Unit. He spent the past two weeks in San Diego and this weekend he leaves for a three week NATO exercise in Europe. It is hard to have him gone so much, but it isn't as bad as a year in Iraq and the income is good, so we are grateful.

When Jon gets home in mid October, we hope there will be a job waiting for him with the US Census Bureau. Thanks for keeping us all in your prayers.

Sheryl

First Day of School

Joshua had a good first day of school. Jon and I walked with him the 20 minute-walk to school. Then Jon was able to pick him up after school since Jon is currently between work projects. They had a fun afternoon, then off to soccer practice and I got to sit with Joshua this evening while he did his homework -- yep, about two pages of writing plus 30 minutes of reading. Lots of work for 4th graders.

Here are pictures of him with his two teachers: Mrs. Porter for English and Sr. Martinez for Spanish.

Tomorrow Jon leaves for two weeks of Marine Corps duty down in San Diego. We may see him one weekend, but probably not both. That means that Joshua will take a van to the Boys & Girls Club after school tomorrow. Hopefully he will get all of his homework done there before I pick him up around 4:15. Then we can have the evening to play instead of sitting at the table doing homework right up till bedtime. :)

All for now.

Sheryl

France Family Labor Day Party

Had a great time with the France Clan today at Brett & Stacey's home. I think we had 35 family members in attendance ranging in age from a few weeks to many, many, many years (you know who you are). :) We had representatives from 7 of the 9 families descended from Milton and Reka Mae. And I have to say, my favorite attendee this year was Cindy France, arriving for the first time in the 20+ year history of this event. Of course, Micah was a close 2nd with Sean, Estee and Natalie tied for 3rd with there adorableness. Since this is my blog, my nephew gets the star treatment. You can go to my facebook page to see the other adorable children.

The weather was perfect -- not too hot and not humid at all. The food, as always, was delicious and plentiful, a great combination when it comes to food. The company was enjoyable and the pool was refreshing whether you chose to enter it willingly or with help from the rowdy members of the family (you know who you are).

A big thanks to Brett and Stacey for hosting all of us once again. See you all next year, if not sooner.

Sheryl

A great afternoon at the beach

We are so fortunate to be so close to the beach. We spent three hours in the water this afternoon. I got this great video of Jon and Joshua enjoying the waves together.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b204Fg1SvOE

Happy Labor Day everyone.

Sheryl

Job possibility and school starting

Well, Jon had to turn down a job offer yesterday. The bad news is that the Census Bureau finally called to offer him a part-time job in the middle of September but he already has a USMC job scheduled. The USMC job is full-time and pays much more plus he has committed to it, so he told the CB caller that he wasn't free then, but would be available after October 17. The good news is that the caller said she would make a note and Jon's name would be at the top of the list for job opportunities that come available after October 17. That is great news. Our current scheduled income will cover our 2009 scheduled expenses, so any work he gets with the CB will be a help toward next year's expenses. We don't expect a CB job to last past April 2010.

I continue to enjoy my work at San Clemente Presbyterian Church. It is great to chat on the phone or in person with the many members and guests who come to the office each day. I took Wednesday off this week to enjoy one final day of summer vacation before Joshua goes back to school. Jon is between projects this week so he has been home and the three of us enjoyed a warm, but beautiful afternoon and evening at the San Diego Zoo. Yes, the guys carried their USMC umbrellas around the zoo all afternoon and even on the top of the doubledecker tour bus.

We met Joshua's 4th grade teachers yesterday at the Meet & Greet at his school. He will have two teachers this year -- one who teaches entirely in English (Ms. Porter) and one who teaches entirely in Spanish (Sr. Martinez). The students will only be allowed to speak the appropriate language in each classroom. The entire curriculum will be divided up (odd chapters in one class and even in the other) so that every subject will be taught (and hopefully learned) in both languages. We are all excited about this creative way for Joshua to continue to learn in both English and Spanish.

Since I do not start my job until 9:00 am, I will be able to take Joshua to school each morning and will even be able to participate in the once-a-week Mom's In Touch Prayer group at our school. In the afternoons Joshua will ride the free van to the Boys & Girls Club, where he has been for about four weeks this summer. There he will do his homework and then have a little free time before I pick him up at 4:30. Wish I could pick him up after school, but hopefully he'll have all of his homework done when I do pick him up, so we can have fun the rest of the evening.

Well, I think that is a full update on the Moran family.

Sheryl

New hair cut for Joshua

After not having his hair cut for 1 year, 2 months and 2 weeks, Joshua finally went under the scissors. It was his decision after a few soccer practices where his hair was bugging him too much. His new cut is quite handsome, but it is taking a while for all of us to get used to it. Joshua has enjoyed having it short on our visits to the swimming pool. So here is the old and the new look side by side.

Sheryl

Jon's Brithday

I'm a little late in reporting, but Jon is still celebrating his birthday tonight, so that's my excuse.

Jon didn't work on his actual birthday and instead stayed home with Joshua, whom he hadn't seen for the previous week and a half due to Jon's drill weekend followed by Joshua's week at camp. They had fun doing errands and hanging out at home. That evening the three us enjoyed dinner at Sarducci's a beautiful restaurant at the train depot in downtown San Juan (Uncle Pat and Aunt Sharon Moran will know where we were).

Tonight I managed to surprise Jon with a game night birthday party for him and five other guys who he used to play board games with. The guys started arriving at 5:00 pm, right after Joshua and I had gotten Jon up from his afternoon nap (he had a late night last night at a Marine Corps function). He was completely surprised and after chatting for a while, the guys started in on a game that has been going for nearly 4 hours. These guys are all friends from our old church, Trinity Presbyterian in Santa Ana. I was able to see these guys at a pool party two weeks ago, but Jon missed it due to his drill. This was a great way for him to reconnect with good friends while enjoying a great game.

Joshua and I picked up the pizza for the guys and then headed out to see "G-Force," which we both enjoyed. It has been a great night.

One happy birthday wish to my dear husband, the Jarhed!!!

Sheryl

Joshua having fun at camp

I just got this photo off the Indian Village web site. Looks like Joshua is having fun playing basketball. Its always good to see pictures of your child having fun at camp. He's the long-haired boy in the light green shirt. :)

Sheryl

Joshua off to camp

Joshua left for Indian Village at Forest Home Christian Camp yesterday. He'll be gone for a week and will get to sleep in a tepee while he's there. Should be a lot of fun.

Jon was gone for a long weekend with his USMC Reserve Unit, so we are looking forward to having some date nights this week. I am also going to get a girls' night out Tuesday to see "Julie & Julia" when Jon has an association board meeting. Should be a fun week for all of us.

Jon is putting in a couple weeks of work with the USMC this week and then he'll have a couple weeks off. There might be some USMC projects and short trips that he may be able to do in September and October, but we'll see. Still no job offer, but he has had such a busy summer with family visiting and then working that he hasn't been able to focus on the job hunt, which is a full-time job in and of itself. We are trusting the Lord to provide.

Thanks to those of you who are praying for us.

Sheryl

Final camping trip

Jon, Joshua, Flynn, Mary and Mercy camped at the beach for two days with 20 or so of our friends from school and church. I spent the evenings with the gang after I got off work, but enjoyed wonderful sleep in my own bed. Here are a few pictures of the fun.

Flynn, Mary and Mercy will be flying out of Orange County in a few hours (1:15 pm California time) headed for Dallas and then a couple hour drive home. I think they had a good time, although they were so busy, it might take a while to process the trip. We enjoyed having them here and look forward to seeing them again, along with the rest of the Moran/Baker clan in Nashville this December to celebrate Grandpa Baker's 100th birthday.

Sheryl

An Awesome Time in Yosemite

The Joe and Helen France family, joined by Flynn, Mary and Mercy had a fabulous time in Yosemite. We were there to celebrate my dad's 70th birthday, which was a few weeks ago. He grew up in the Central Valley of California but had never experienced the Yosemite Valley. You'll have to check with each member of our crew to find out what made the camping adventure special to them. The place itself makes just about any event amazing. Here are a few random pictures for those of you who know our family and love this beautiful place.

Sheryl

Burklin kids explore Southern California

Sorry, I don't have any new pictures to add to the page as I have been at work all week while Jon, Joshua, Flynn, Mary and Mercy have been out playing. :) They had a hot, but enjoyable visit to the San Diego Zoo, arriving home after 9:00 pm on Monday. Tuesday was a long, but exciting day at Disneyland and California Adventure and they didn't get home until nearly 11:00 pm that night. Wednesday they visited with an old friend from Texas who now lives in Long Beach. Today they have been helping Jon pack up the camping supplies so we can head to Yosemite for our family camping trip. It is hot up there, but so beautiful. I'll try to post pictures of the trip after we get home.

After we get back, the Buklin kids will get to visit with a friend who lives north of Los Angeles, camp on the beach and maybe visit Disneyland one more time before heading back home to Texas. They may need some time to recover from their vacation when they get back home.

All for now.

Sheryl (for the Moran/Burklin gang)

A visit from the Burklin kids

I know it has been a long time since I posted on this blog, but I discovered today that some family members aren't on facebook but would like to see pictures of our time with Jon's nieces (Mary and Mercy) and nephew (Flynn) who are visiting us from Texas for two weeks. They arrived yesterday afternoon. Today they joined us for church in San Clemente and then we walked down to the pier where the Ocean Festival was going on so we got to see the surfing contest, sand sculptures, classic cars, etc. Lots of fun. Tomorrow Jon will take the kids to the San Diego Zoo, followed by Disneyland on Tuesday. Then on Wednesday the Burklin kids will get to visit with a friend of theirs who lives in Long Beach. Thursday we leave for a camping trip in Yosemite.

I'll be working this week, although I did get Friday and next Monday off to go to Yosemite with the family. If you didn't know, two weeks ago I started as receptionist at our church. I work 9:00 am - 4:00 pm and it is a great job for me.

Here are some pictures of our time with the Burklin kids so far. I'll try to post more later.

Sheryl

Job Search

Jon has been working hard since he got home looking for a new job. He is participating in a networking group at church that meets weekly and helps those looking for jobs to be prepared to find them and connect with those who might have openings. This week Jon is attending the Transition Assistance Program provided by the Marine Corps. It seems to be a very practical and helpful set of seminars.

There do seem to be some potential options within the Marine Corps as well as in the civilian sector. Please pray for Jon to find the right one that works for him and our family. We are so blessed that he can do this search while still receiving a pay check.

Hope you all had a fun St. Patrick's Day. Joshua discovered that a leprechaun visited our house yesterday and left a trail of clues that led to some goodies.

All for now.

Sheryl

Planting our Native Garden

Saturday was a beautiful day here in Southern California -- perfect to be out doors planting our native garden. A BIG Thanks to my dad, cousin Kimberly, friend Kris and Joshua's friend Max who joined us with Reggie, from Back to Natives, to plant the 71 baby plants we have. We learned all about native plants and how to best plant and care for the ones we have. We are sore this morning, but it is a good feeling after working so hard yesterday.

Sheryl

7 March, 0900 to 1600 (Open House schedule—drop by whenever)

Jon has been home for over 2 weeks now and we are going through the process of adjusting to living together as a family again. We have a big project coming up on Saturday, March 7, and if you'd like to come and help us, you can spend some quality time with Jon digging in the dirt. :) If not, I'm sure we'll schedule a more party-like Open House in the not too distant future. Read on to find out about our Landspacing Open House. I know we aren't updating the blog much these days, but you can find us on facebook, if you want to see pictures and learn other interesting facts about each of us. Sheryl

Sheryl, Joshua and I are finally getting around to adding some ground cover and foliage to our plot following the installation of our new prefabricated home back in January, 2008 (OK, we have some excuse for not doing this earlier, since I deployed two weeks after our house went in, and will have only been back about four weeks when we do this).

Our landscaping consultant is from Back to Natives Restoration, a non-profit that is focused on biodiversity and native plant landscaping benefits (to reduce water use, chemical herbicide and pesticide use--if not eliminate chemical use altogether). Our consultant will be conducting a “Do it Yourself” workshop to kick our day off, where we’ll learn about some of the benefits of restoring to California its native plants--while we immediately reinforce this learning with practical application.

Though these plants are hardy and drought tolerant, special treatment needs to be given during the planting portion to ensure a healthy acclimation process for the plants as they transition from a well watered container to our drought tolerant landscape! This process is noticeably different from the techniques taught at commercial nursery workshops or at the 'Do It Yourself Workshop' at your local big box home improvement store.

We’ll have the mulch and plants on hand, and would like our consultant to oversee our planting, but there is an hourly fee, so we’re looking for a few folks who might be interested in learning about native plant restoration as well as learning how to plant and care for them to help speed up the planting process. For more information regarding Back to Natives Restoration, you can visit their website at http://www.backtonatives.org

If you are willing to come help us, would you please drop us a note or give us a call? We'd like to plan to have adequate stuff on hand for breakfast, lunch, and/or artificial motivation and stimulants.

Jon

Home

Jon is home!

Joshua and I arrived down on base at 4:40 and the buses pulled in about 2 hours later. The families were able to comfortably wait in a large hanger where hamburgers, hot dogs, cookies, chips and other goodies were provided. Joshua and I read for about half an hour. The luggage truck arrived about an hour before the Marines did so Joshua and I were able to search through the hundreds of bags and we actually found Jon's two bags. They were too heavy to take to the car but a Marine helped us move them away from the hundreds of other bags. That saved us a lot of time when Jon did arrive since it was a mad house with all the Marines looking for their bags at once.

We headed to Claim Jumper for dinner -- a family tradition (we've gone there after Jon's return from both deployments). Joshua got his wish of being able to wrestle with Jon as soon as we got home. Now he is getting to have his dad read his bed-time story and put him to bed. He is one happy boy.

Jon and I are pretty happy ourselves. Thanks for your prayers.

Sheryl

In US Airspace

Jon called at 9:00 this morning to let me know that they had landed in Minnesota, their entry point to the US this time. There were only 4 phones and a long line, so we spoke for about 2 minutes, but it was great to hear his voice. As I type he should be in the air again headed toward an Air Force Base here in Southern California. He is on schedule to disembark from the bus, that will carry him to Camp Pendleton, this evening.

Thank you so much for your prayers.

Sheryl

On the Road Home

After 48 hours without hearing from Jon, I finally had an e-mail from him yesterday. He had sent a few messages prior to that, but somehow they were lost in cyberspace. He has been in his "layover country" for a couple days reading, talking to colleagues, watching movies and just resting. As I type this he is preparing for the final leg of his journey home. There will be a lot of "hurry up and wait" going on for him over the next hours. Jon should be able to call once they land in CONUS (Continental United States) so I'll hear from him maybe 6 hours before he gets home. Of course many of the locations where they enter the US are on the east coast or in the northern states, so pray that the bad weather in those parts won't delay his return or if it does that we will all be patient.

Joshua and I are anxiously waiting for his arrival. Joshua commented this morning that he hates the waiting part. I completely understand.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

Sheryl

The Excitement Grows

I just received a call from the Family Readiness Officer (FRO) letting me know the time and place to meet Jon when he arrives. It is a new location, but I know where it is, so am ready to go. Now for the waiting. I haven't an e-mail from Jon in over 24 hours so he could already be traveling. Not sure but we are definitely in the final stretch. Trying to stay busy this week. :)

Thanks for your prayers.

Sheryl

A Beach Day in January

Sorry, but I just feel a need to rub in our good weather for all of you who live where the winter is bitterly cold. Here is Joshua on Saturday, January 31, 2009. Now I must admit that the ocean water felt like ice and it only took a few minutes before my feet were numb just standing in the ankle-deep surf. But the air was in the 80s so the children and the brave played in the surf. I don't mean to make light of those who are truly suffering this winter. We hope and pray for safety and a return of electricity in areas that have lost it. Hey, my realtor friends would love it if you would like to move to our lovely state. Houses are cheaper than they've been in years, of course taxes might be going up to pay for schools and other public services.

Almost down to counting the hours,

Sheryl

Election Day in Iraq

Jon sent this great report today:

"Today is the day the Sunni's have been waiting for. All their hopes are pinned on high voter turnouts so they can regain the political pre-eminence in areas with Sunni majority populations (about five provinces that since the last election in 2005 have been controlled by minority parties, in three of the provinces that has been Kurds, one of them Shia). This has the potential to be a pretty historic day, on which a truly representative election (it is expected that over 90% of Iraqis will vote) occurs that will solidify Iraq as a representative democracy. The only irony in the whole thing is that it could not be scheduled to take place on Bush's watch (so technically the "credit" goes to the current administration). As of the closing of the polls there have not been any reported attacks on polling sights thoughout Iraq. Jarhedjon"

The Replacement Has Arrived

We are getting so close to the end of this deployment. Jon's replacement has arrived and the transition has begun. I just got this from him.

"My replacement is here, so that's good news, I'll have at least a week to turn over my responsibilities, which is hugely magnanimous compared to what I had last time--and the reality is I need the time much less this time due to job function than I did last time. Murphy's law, I guess--the time you have is inversely proportionate to the time you need. Oh well. Another sign that my departure is looming ever nearer. Most problematic will be that after I finish my "driver's seat" part of the turn over and transition to the "passenger seat" phase of the turnover (where I simply advise if asked), I won't have preferred access to a NIPR computer (for contact with you) or a SIPR computer (to finish up tasks related to finalizing my mission here). The good thing is that time available to complete these minor tasks will be fairly extensive, and I can accomplish them when (I'm guessing) my counterpart is not using the computer. Though this may be late at night or early in the morning, it should not be a big deal, as I'll have few demands on my time, so will be capable of flexibility. Semper Fi, JarHedJon"

Hot H2O

"One of these days pretty soon I'm going to be "evicted" from my wet CHU for the incoming high ranking folks, and moved to the transient tents with the "common" masses. The real blessing in the wet CHU these last three months has been that the arrival of the MEF dramatically exceeded the hot water capacity of the shower facilities (and I was not affected). KBR (the contractor) says by contract they only have to provide one toilet and one shower for every thirty people, which is just not enough, particularly when the hot water heaters (each shower facility has eight showers) for each unit are half the size of the average residential hot water heater. Basically, about 80% of the MEF have been taking cold showers for the last 90 days. With my own shower in a wet CHU, I at least have had hot showers (though my water heater is very limited, I have to turn off the water while soaping down, or I run out of hot water in my wet CHU, too). Moving to the transient tent, I'll have to stand in line for a shower, and when I get there, it'll be cold. To be honest, I am not looking forward to this, but I don't mind bearing the same hardships that all the other troops have been enduring for the last 90 days. I AM very thankful for the hot water showers, and do not take them for granted. Semper Fi, JarHedJon"

A New US President

We have a new president of the United States of America and Jon had a perspective that I asked if I could share with you all.

"It is dramatic to see the differences between the US election process and population involvement and response vice the Iraq election process and population response. I don't recall there being one politically motivated death in the US, and now that it's all over, we're gearing up for the party of this new century. Here there is much distrust, anger, doubt, and fear. There have been and continue to be acts of violence. The lack of respect for each other, the lack of tolerance, and the absence of the understanding of the impact on the international community's perspective of them (corrupt, prejudiced, indiscriminately violent, undiscerning and feudal). Much has been surmounted through education, the effects of globalization on quality of life, and the reality that the most trusted powerful and authoritative entity in their world is the Infidel military that continually assumes risk and inserts itself between danger and the populace. Though the political rhetoric at the national level is all about sovereignty, the people here (I can only speak about my immediate area) do not want us to leave, and they express their thanks to us every day we stay. Is it too much to hope that in ten years, twenty years, within our lifetime, a peaceful election such as ours could happen here? Probably, look at all of the political violence, assassinations, and attempted assassinations, that occur even in the US (even in the last fifty years), and I'd have to say it is too much to hope that humans will stop being human--in the US or here. But we have created the basis for something similar to what happens in our country during elections to take place here, eventually. Jarhedjon"

Can you find my Marine?

Jon just sent a recent picture of himself with some of the folks he works with. At our house Joshua was the first to find him in the photo. See how well you can do.

Sheryl

Recognize I am Not Alone

The military categorizes those unable to deal "normally" with the results of deployments as having PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). It is generally acknowledged that all personnel are effected to some extent, though the actual point where PTSD requires treatment depends on the person subjected to the stress and person conducting the diagnosis. Military training is designed to prepare the individual to deal with a variety of possible environments in which they might have to survive. The rigors of military training, often taken to extremes, are generally forgiven due to drastic differences between the civilian environment of Any Place, USA, and Specific Battlefield, Deployed. However, I’d like to propose that any such “change factor” can be traumatic, either in experience or effect, to any person, not just someone in the military, and these effects are magnified by the duration they eclipse. Just as it is expected that certain experiences on the battlefield or during a deployment are outside of the individual’s ability to assimilate, so it is that experiences can (and generally do) happen, even while “just walking down the street,” that can startle, stress, shock, or traumatize because there is no “device” that will fit a particular event within a “normal” framework. Using this reasoning, Joshua's two week experience at camp could be of greater impact to his life than a year of deployment might be to my life—it just depends on how dramatic the difference between the environment one is used to and calls “normal” vice the environment that is or provides the vehicle of change.

My conclusion, then, is to acknowledge that all of us are natives in the land of stress, and I find this an encouragement. First, it puts me and my year long deployment in a category of experience not far removed from each person—lest I give myself a little bit too much room to tarry in the “Woe is me” place. Secondly, since stress is such a universal experience, those with whom I share my life will not consider me an alien should I discuss my experience of stress in a controlled setting. Thirdly, I have a Savior whose Mercy and Grace sustained me throughout, Who is certainly intimately familiar with every moment of my life, and Who eternally invites me to permit the incremental sanctification of my life to His Way.

Semper Fi, JarHedJon

The Impact the Deployment Makes

Another report from Jarhedjon.

"The antidote to the weariness from a deployment extends beyond achieving a few extended nights’ sleep in a comfortable bed. Not that those holding down the fort at home don't know this. In many cases, their lives have been even more dramatically impacted and/or affected than the one deployed. The longer the duration of the absence of the deployed, the less the "positive" nature or "positive" results that were the reason for the separation have any relevance—to either the deployed individual or those left behind. For instance, is it harder to leave one’s family for a deployment where the mission is understood, the tasking continuous, the routine aspects of life provided for and/or taken care of, and in the context of career progression amid accolades and support? Or is it harder to be left behind, half of a couple or more difficult yet, a single parent, handling all the requirements of living in what was reasonably expected to be a shared experience, aware every day of a specific vacuum in life—a half empty bed, an empty place at the dinner table, a missing social companion and friend. Having been the one deployed, though I recognize that it is no fun, my money is on the left-behind folks as having a more difficult time. Regardless, allowances are made for me, and all sorts of support mechanisms are not only available, I am required several times during “warrior transition” to specifically deny the requirement for follow-on support if I elect not to receive it. Unfortunately, such care is a little more distant from my family than it is to me, though there is a growing awareness of the necessity for this, and there are limited programs available.The most difficult thing for relationships, however, is not the separation—it is “re-entry” following the separation. The deployed (speaking for myself, here) will tend to believe relationships can be “checked out of” when deployed and “checked back into” when the deployment is over, believing little change has occurred personally over the deployment and the bigger challenge will be “catching up” with changes in others. Those left behind (my perceptions here) have long since learned to deal with the vacuum, developed coping mechanisms, and “moved on”—their “place” relative to the “place” where the deployed person expects to “check back in to” are now very different “locations,” a gap which will require tremendous effort and significant time (several months or more) on the part of BOTH parties to close. Semper Fi, JarHedJon"

I agree with what Jon says above about the re-entry time. Joshua and I have been praying about that time already. We talk about the fact that Joshua will need to share me with Dad and vice versa. Joshua is at an age where justice is quite important so he has already said, "Mom, if you and Dad go on a date, then I'll get to go to breakfast at Ruby's with Dad, cause that's fair." :) Initially we'll plan quite a bit of family time so all three of us will be together. Jon will have a lot of days off, so hopefully he and I will have some quality time together during the day while Joshua's in school. Of course, my life has "gone on" and I have lots going on with PTA and the church, so I'll need to rearrange my schedule to make that time. I don't, and I don't think Jon means to sound like we are complaining. We just want to let you know a bit of the complicated nature of coming together after a year of separation and we would greatly appreciate your prayers. Thanks.

Sheryl

Nearing the end of another deployment

Jon sums up his thoughts and feelings as this deployment nears an end.

"I recall the last two months of my deployment in 2006, and I have a vague memory that any variation from the routine seemed like a cataclysmic crisis, energy levels had sunk to the level where walking and talking seemed about all I could do, forget about creative thought. That's sort of how it is now. It's not that life is so tough; it's just that many of the fundamental meaningfulnesses of every day life (the preservation of which is why we're here in the first place) cannot be felt here. This is not a negative judgment on the country to which we are deployed, this is an acknowledgement that wherever it is, it is not “home,” it is not where our hearts reside. Over time, this distance from our “hearts” attacks the very center of individual significance, and simultaneously degrades any confidence that what we are accomplishing is of any note. This bludgeoning effect to the psyche appears to more dramatically impact the staffs (who are less physically engaged) than those who are actively executing the missions; a wearying of the body that in turn grinds down the capacity to overcome complacency is the sentence on those tasked with a more physical mission. The strength of character that drives individuals forward in this environment, so that they overcome these and many other impediments to excellence in accomplishing mundane, arduous, and downright almost impossible tasks, is today fairly rare--though providentially, corporately and against significant odds, success here is more universal than the rarity of strength of character would suggest. Whether one has this strength of character within them or not, it can still be observed and noted in others. I think back to previous conflicts, where individuals were in physical confrontation with the enemy and/or the enemies' devices for years at a time, and their accomplishments, in the absence of technology, often without popular support, and little enough of the very essentials of life, seem to throw much of what we've done here into a somewhat pale light. It is not without reason that the generation that persevered to achieve victory in WWII is called "great." Even greater, in many ways, though less acknowledged, were those engaged in the Vietnamese and Korean conflicts, who lacked the support of their own nation, in fact faced adversity from the enemy and at home, and yet achieved victory in almost every tactical conflict in which they were engaged (the conflicts were lost operationally and strategically). This, then, is the state I'm in as my deployment nears its end. Semper Fi, Jarhedjon"