The Adventure Begins...

It was a such a neat day yesterday as so many friends and family came to our home for a send off and early Birthday party for Allie. Christina and I love you all and are thankful for your support.

We left the house at about 12:15 p.m. and when we arrived at DIA we were pleasantly surprised that Christina was allowed to go all the way to the gate with me. We had a few extra hours together and then it was time to go to Atlanta.

The plane to Atlanta was full but the stewardess gave me a seat in the back by myself. That was nice...I've been battling a head cold and was exhausted so I was able to catch up on a few hours of sleep. There was a little boy about Herbie's age sitting in the seat across from me and the parent's were having such a hard time keeping him entertained. (I could only imagine Herbie running up and down the aisles :)

I have never been to Georgia and I was impressed with the airport in Atlanta. I had two hours to grab a bite to eat and do some people watching. The plane to Columbia, SC was much smaller and the ride was pretty choppy. We were flying into a tropical storm but arrived safely about 40 minutes later.

All the bags arrived, I was given a nice rental car, and then I headed to Ft. Jackson. I had been assured my room would be waiting for me but when I pulled in at 12 midnight I found out there was no vacancy on base. Hmmmmm.... I wasn't alone. In the next few minutes 4 other chaplain candidates came in and were in the same situation. We were given directions to a local hotel off base and after a few close calls on the wet highways I was able to plop down in a room at La Quinta and get some sleep.

From what I can see South Carolina is beautiful. The rain, palm trees, and friendly folks have been great. Now to get ready for my first day...I want to try jogging in this thicker air and see how I do before we start PT tomorrow. Orientation is at 3 p.m. so I will head to the base about 11 a.m. to try to figure out the housing situation and get a feel for the base. Who knows what will happen next...

Love you all!