Drill

Last night I went to drill at the new unit. Within five minutes the CO asked me if I would like to be XO. While they really need an XO, I am not sure that I am up for the commitment. It feels great to be working with the kids again. It is a small group but I believe the 1st Sgt will do a great job. Some members of my old unit are transferring into this unit so I will be working with old friends as well.

A few weeks back I spent some time with D's sister and brother in law listening to and advising them on difficulties they were experiencing with their teenage son. Yesterday D spent time with her sister and apparently they are using and benefitting from my recommendations. Hearing that I made a positive difference in someone’s life is the best antidepressant I have ever had; and I have had them all :-).

Feel Like Shit

I am in day two of a bout with tonsillitis. The pain had abated a bit yesterday but it is back in force today. I am also trying to get by on 30% of my usual antidepressant medication. While I am feeling run down emotionally and physically, I am functional and working through my weekend chores.

B called from France and he said that the trip was going well. Apparently his host family is keeping him busy. Yesterday he went to Strousberg and the day before to an amusement park. I really miss him :-(

We have stripped and prepped B’s room and will start painting it today.

Has the Ride Stopped?

Yesterday J called me from school to tell me that he had been suspended for two days. My pulse quickened and I could feel waves of anxiety sweeping over me. He told me that it had something to do with the false fire alarm from the previous day but he couldn't talk and would call me later. As I hung up the phone my mind raced considering all the implications of what I had just heard.

I found it hard to believe that J had actually pulled the alarm but nevertheless, I began to panic thinking about how people in town would regard us when they learned about his latest alleged transgression. But I have been expecting this new crisis; life has been too good lately so the ride must be over. I tried reaching someone at the school to get more details on the suspension but could not get anyone on the phone. I sat in front of my computer, my head in my hands contemplating what to do next. My phone began to vibrate displaying the school number on the caller ID. My hand was shaking as I answered the phone, "This is Dirk". The caller replied "This is Ms Smith from the High School". "I am calling to notify you that J was suspended for two days for talking on his cell phone and swearing at a teacher when asked to put it away. This occurred yesterday during the false fire alarm". We discussed the incident in more detail and after thanking the principle for the call, I hung up the phone.

As I leaned back in my chair clasping my hands behind my head I smiled broadly. The panic had subsided and I felt a tremendous sense of relief. "He only swore at a teacher" I said out loud.