On the weekend of the 7-9 of this August 2009 I took part along with my wife Loyda in an Army-sponsored mariage retreat. The Strong Bonds Marriage Retreat is a new program to assist soldiers to maintain a happy and healthy relationship with his family members, particularly one's wife. It is also available to single and engaged soldiers.

Well, to say in one word how was the weekend, it was awesomegloriousoutstanding! (Was that more than one word? Sorry, I could not help it!). The chaplains did a great job with the material presented, it really help one understand one spouse better. Even after 21 years of marriage, I still need some help. The activities, the camaraderie, and the place, it was all great. My wife has thank me for this so many times! We actually drove from Florida to Tennessee, so enjoyed the view and as we went back to Florida via U.S. 1, we got to a lot of the country side and small towns that someone like me does not get to see too often. And yes, we went to Dollywood and water rafting. We wished we had more time to do more, but worry not, there will be another trip there.

Back in my unit, I still working on scheduling training, on my Officer Evaluation, which has been a pain in the neck becasue I was basically in two units at the same time: where I was assigned and where I was doing my assemblies. Thanks God they finally got that figure out (the paperwork). in the meantime, i am trying to get mobilized or deployed. Even as I have 22 years in service, I still need much to learn about my officer's trade. I believe some active duty time will help tremendously.

Last, I found this picture while searching tru my computer folders. You know, virtually all people that grew up with me cannot believe that I was a Drill Sgt. I was always a nice Christian boy (and still am, although less shy) so none of them could ever see me as one. But I high school peers ever imagined.

See yu next time. Vaya con Dios, amigo!