As you can tell from the post title, I am now back from R and R. Iraq did not change much since I was gone at home, but it is a tad cooler. Tiffany and I planned to not have much planned (ha), and just take it day by day. We did have a few things to accomplish around the house and had fun tackling the tasks together. One of the local parks nearby had never experienced the Richardson clan presence, so we went for a day hike with the dogs. 
Time spent alone with Tiffany and the dogs enabled me to recharge my batteries. We did see many of my nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters (in laws as well) at my parents house in Bham for Labor Day. Also, when I was in the airport (US) heading back over here, my sister Nikki had a connecting flight at the same airport. Through Tiffany and her cell phone, Nikki found me in the airport and we had about five minutes to catch up and wish each other safe traveling (she to Far East, me to Middle East). Each stop on the way back to Iraq I either shot an email to my wife or called her. The Army really has improved in the last 20 years on equipping Troops to communicate better with family members. Morale basically hinders on that factor, so I am glad proper funding goes to that mission.
It was a event-less trip back (good thing), and so far the plan is to get back into the normal groove. My guys are all doing well except for one Soldier in my platoon. He went home on emergency leave because his brother-in-law died suddenly. Please keep SGT S's family in your prayers.
As you drive on in your day, keep your head up and your glass half full. Things could always be worse for each of us. Remember life is 10% what happens to us, and 90% how we react to it (Chuck Swindoll). Gotta run, love you all....
Glad you made the trip safely. I'm sure it was hard to leave family again, but before long you will be able to come home to stay. Take care, and we pray that God holds you in the palm of his hand. Keep up the good work, and know that we all stand behind you are and proud of the work you guys are doing. God Bless
Posted by: Sherry | September 18, 2005 at 11:19 AM
Praying for you, your family, your SGT.... we appreciate your service!!!!!
PS ~ LOVE Chuck Swindoll! Great teacher, great author... I have that very same quote on my desk at work. :-)
Posted by: Kat in GA | September 18, 2005 at 06:50 PM
Glad you made it back safely. Tiff sent us an update so we knew you landed. Sometimes the travel part is the scariest part. Hang in there and you will be home before you know it. The countdown begins. We will keep all of the troops in our prayers as you finalize your stay there.
love ya
nik
Posted by: nikki | September 19, 2005 at 11:26 PM
thanks for sticking up for me bro on the blog. &;~)
get back soon, you gotta hang with me and andy p. for monday night football. it's a good time. -bro
Posted by: gavin | September 20, 2005 at 01:02 AM
Glad you had a relaxing, recharging break! You and Tiff continue to be in our prayers.
Posted by: Ike | September 20, 2005 at 01:43 PM
Im a college student in florida and came across your blog. I think youre so heroic and strong for everything youve been through and how much you love your wife. My boyfriend's in the Navy, and I miss him with my whole heart. Its inspirational how you both do it - god bless.
Posted by: Kathy | September 20, 2005 at 11:25 PM
im a bit late here but just want to say that you really have a brave heart and thanks for doing this, your really a hero to us
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