Mid-Week Update

Today was relatively uneventful, I went to the gym and with my mom to take the dog for a walk. Jesse met us there and played ball with Stryker a little bit.

Jesse has a heat test of some sort tomorrow, which is kind of funny because we have no idea what it entails. All I know is that he drug out all of his gear and strung it out all over our very small bedroom. I have to say it was quite cute when he had my father and brother, Taylor, try on his flak vest. That was pretty good! He also confirmed that he probably will get the new boots they have now that are green and brown (in Jesse's words "hideous") and the super cool (at least I think so) shirts that go underneath the flak vest. They're green in the center of the shirt, with ACU-type sleeves, almost like a baseball style shirt. Very cool, nice, and new gear!

I got some information on the FRG (Family Readiness Group) today also, and should be contacted soon about what's happening with that. It's exciting! When Jesse leaves I'll make sure to post ideas for care packages in case anyone is interested!

Tomorrow I go to work for my 2nd day... Things have been pretty dead because of the Puyallup Fair. Quite honestly, I can't complain! It's kind of nice to just get back into the swing of things without crazy amount of customers in the store. Besides, my friend April is working again and we are going to have some cupcakes!

The jewelry store is going to have a LeVian show the beginning of december. Those who do not know what LeVian is, it is amazingly beautiful (and expensive) jewelry. LeVian is a family name, and they have been making jewelry since the 1700's (www.levian.com). They started in the beginning by designing jewelry for Persian Royalty. The jewelry is beautiful and made with all natural stones. The company warranties the gold and the stones in the jewelry for life -- that is how much they believe in their product. So, back to what I was talking about before, they're having a HUGE show at our store that will have so many pieces it requires security. We're talking $9 million worth of jewelry. The LeVian dealer also told our manager that if none of the associates wear jewelry that day that he will dress us with the gorgeousness that is LeVian. It's a rough life!

Anywhoo, on some "off" type days I'll try and update you all on some of the things we did in Georgia.... And post some pictures. There isn't too much to see, but we have some interesting stories and pictures!

I also found a cause which I think is worth supporting! I know everyone has left over, random Christmas cards laying around their house... So why not donate them to a good cause and let our soldiers know how much they are appreciated and that they are thought about this holiday season? Cards are due by November 20th.

Operation Christmas Cards for Our Soldiers

The Physical Address to mail your boxes of Christmas Cards are as follows:

You can mail cards to:
Amanda Sullivan
Attn: Operation Christmas Cards
PO Box 102
Shrewsbury MA 01545

Rochelle Fetterley
Operation Christmas Cards
2106 N Country Club Road
Duncan OK 73533

Only address the envelope if it is going to a soldier that celebrates something other than Christmas.

-- Some Q&A --

Do we need to have the card in a blank envelope?
It is not needed but it would be great if it was in one.

Do we seal the envelopes?
Please do not seal the envelopes, we check through them for the occasional card that contains comments that you would not want your friend or loved one reading while they are defending this country.

Does it have to be Christmas cards?
Absolutely not. Any and all types of holiday cards will be greatly appreciated. Thank you cards will be just great too as well as pictures that are drawn by children.

Who can we ask and how can we help more?
You can ask anyone and everyone. Friends, family, schools, churches. Diane suggested putting boxes around town with a short description of the project. Email me for the description that we are using if you need help for ideas. We've asked local business if they would display a box during the month of October into November as long as we check in weekly to collect cards.

Can we send more than just cards?
Sure, the troops love anything from home such as candy and cookies at the holidays. Stockings, christmas lights, anything that makes it feel a little more festive for them. DVDS and books or magazines. Even if they are used these troops greatly appreciate them.

Do we leave contact information?
If you would like to that would be great. Most soldiers would love to keep in contact especially when children send art work. However, some soldiers may be unable to answer or may not have the time. Don't forget they have a lot to do over there and some soldiers rarely get free time for themselves.