Dear Family, December 23, 2007\
Merry Christmas Eve Eve. :) Sorry for my poor communication. I have been so busy that I have not had time to do any thing but read my letters and clean the house. Last Wednesday we thatched a movie. It was OK. Other wise I shot all of last week. I did not shoot really well. I ended up shooting a 212. 250 is perfect so I dropped 38 points. All we have now is table II. Table II is moving targets. It should be fun. I can pick up another 10 points so I can move from sharp shooter to Expert. Other wise we did the 8 mile hike yesterday. It was fine except that I was the knowledge recruit and I had to scream for the whole time. I am hoarse today. I think that our platoon will take range as we had 2 recruits who shot 240s and 239 as well. There are a lot of experts. That is most of the news. Next week we are camping out for 3 nights. WE are not going out till Wednesday. So we are staying here till after Christmas. Camping should be fun. It is still cold here. Probably about 40 every morning and getting up to 65 or 70 every day. It rained one day last week so that was a little cold and muddy shooting. It is still hard to find time for devos as our square away time is cut down to 45 minutes instead of 1 1/2 hours. In that time we have to fit equipment, clean the house, and shower and shave. I still have opportunity to talk to recruits about the Lord. It is neat o see the interest in spiritual things. I cannot believe the immorality in America. I think I see the worst of it here at boot camp. You can pray I keep my language clean. It is still a challenge as I hear dirty language constantly.
Today the Church service was good. The sermon was on Joseph from Matthew 1. It was given by a retired chaplain that was LCMS. He preached the word. Well I had better go. Merry Christmas!
Christ's Soldier,
David Pillman
Prov. 4:24
P.S. Thanks for all the letters from friends and family. I love them. Please send me pictures!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Saturday, December 29, 2007
No new Letters
If you are wondering we have not received any letters from David for a few weeks. We will make sure that as soon as we get another, we will post it.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Christmas Cookies
Here are a few Christmas cookie favorites:
Spritz Cookies
1c. sugar
1 ½ cup marg.
3 egg yolks
1 tsp. almond extract
3 c. unsifted flour
Put through a cookie press. Bake at 300F for 20 min. 7 doz. pressed cookies
Mexican Wedding Cakes
½ cup marg.
2 T sugar
1 c. flour
1 c. walnuts, chopped
1 tsp. vanilla
Roll the size of walnuts. Bake 350F for 10-12 min. Roll in powdered sugar while hot. Roll again in powdered sugar when cool.
Peanut Blossoms
3 ½ c. flour
2 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
Cream 1 cup butter and 1 cup peanut butter. Add 1 cup sugar and 1 cup br. sugar. Cream. Add 2 eggs, 2 tsp. vanilla. Blend dry ingredients together and add. Roll into balls. Roll in sugar. (May use red or green sugar). Bake at 350F for 8 min. Take from oven. Put choc, kisses on top. Bake another 2-5 min. more.
Spritz Cookies
1c. sugar
1 ½ cup marg.
3 egg yolks
1 tsp. almond extract
3 c. unsifted flour
Put through a cookie press. Bake at 300F for 20 min. 7 doz. pressed cookies
Mexican Wedding Cakes
½ cup marg.
2 T sugar
1 c. flour
1 c. walnuts, chopped
1 tsp. vanilla
Roll the size of walnuts. Bake 350F for 10-12 min. Roll in powdered sugar while hot. Roll again in powdered sugar when cool.
Peanut Blossoms
3 ½ c. flour
2 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
Cream 1 cup butter and 1 cup peanut butter. Add 1 cup sugar and 1 cup br. sugar. Cream. Add 2 eggs, 2 tsp. vanilla. Blend dry ingredients together and add. Roll into balls. Roll in sugar. (May use red or green sugar). Bake at 350F for 8 min. Take from oven. Put choc, kisses on top. Bake another 2-5 min. more.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Here's what's cooking in our Kitchen! Ed. 3
Another one of our Christmas traditions. This cookie is Swedish, but is very similar to an Italian Biscotti.
Rusks
½ c. butter
1/2c. marg.
2c. sugar
2 eggs
4 1/2c.flour
½ c. nuts
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2/3 c. milk
Cream butter and marg, add sugar cream again. Add eggs and beat. Mix dry ingredients and add to the rest. Form into four logs 12’ long 2’ wide and 1’ tall. Place two logs on a cookie sheet. Bake at 350F for 35-40 min. Logs should be slightly browned and not sticky or raw to cut. Let logs cool slightly. Then, using a bread knife slice each log on a slight angle into ½” pieces. Lay each slice onto its side and spread all over cookie sheets. Place back into oven at 200F. to dry. They will be crisp. Can turn oven off and let dry over night.
Rusks
½ c. butter
1/2c. marg.
2c. sugar
2 eggs
4 1/2c.flour
½ c. nuts
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2/3 c. milk
Cream butter and marg, add sugar cream again. Add eggs and beat. Mix dry ingredients and add to the rest. Form into four logs 12’ long 2’ wide and 1’ tall. Place two logs on a cookie sheet. Bake at 350F for 35-40 min. Logs should be slightly browned and not sticky or raw to cut. Let logs cool slightly. Then, using a bread knife slice each log on a slight angle into ½” pieces. Lay each slice onto its side and spread all over cookie sheets. Place back into oven at 200F. to dry. They will be crisp. Can turn oven off and let dry over night.
Here's what's cooking in our Kitchen! Ed. 2
One of our traditional Christmas cookies.
Rug Cookies 350F 10-12 min.
1 c. butter or marg.
1 ½ c. sugar
1 Tbs. corn syrup
1 egg
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp ginger
2 tsp. cloves
2 ½c. flour
Cream butter. Add sugar and syrup. Add egg. Mix flour and spices. Add to creamed mixture. Put through a cookie press or roll into balls, roll in sugar and bake. When we use a cookie press, we make the shape of a rug in strips down the cookie sheet. We cut them into desired size as we take them off the sheet. They must be removed from cookie sheet immediately as they will stick badly if allowed to cool.
Rug Cookies 350F 10-12 min.
1 c. butter or marg.
1 ½ c. sugar
1 Tbs. corn syrup
1 egg
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp ginger
2 tsp. cloves
2 ½c. flour
Cream butter. Add sugar and syrup. Add egg. Mix flour and spices. Add to creamed mixture. Put through a cookie press or roll into balls, roll in sugar and bake. When we use a cookie press, we make the shape of a rug in strips down the cookie sheet. We cut them into desired size as we take them off the sheet. They must be removed from cookie sheet immediately as they will stick badly if allowed to cool.
Here's what's cooking in our Kitchen!
This is one of our favorite unique Christmas cookie recipes. Enjoy!
Finnish Cookies 375F 15-20 min. Makes 3 doz.
1 c. butter
1 c. small curd cottage cheese
¼ tsp. salt
2 c. flour
¾ c. br. sugar
1 beaten egg yolk
¾ c. finely chopped walnuts
2 Tbs. water
icing sugar for rolling
½ tsp. cinnamon
melted butter
Cream butter with cottage cheese; blend in salt and flour. Shape into ball. Divide dough into thirds. Roll each piece into a 12” round. Brush with melted butter. Combine cinnamon brown sugar and nuts. Sprinkle 1/3 mixture over each round. Cut into 16 pie-shaped wedges. Spread at wide edge, roll towards point. Place point down on greased cookie sheet; brush with combined egg yolk and water. Bake. Remove from pan immediately and sprinkle with or roll in sifted confectioners sugar.
Finnish Cookies 375F 15-20 min. Makes 3 doz.
1 c. butter
1 c. small curd cottage cheese
¼ tsp. salt
2 c. flour
¾ c. br. sugar
1 beaten egg yolk
¾ c. finely chopped walnuts
2 Tbs. water
icing sugar for rolling
½ tsp. cinnamon
melted butter
Cream butter with cottage cheese; blend in salt and flour. Shape into ball. Divide dough into thirds. Roll each piece into a 12” round. Brush with melted butter. Combine cinnamon brown sugar and nuts. Sprinkle 1/3 mixture over each round. Cut into 16 pie-shaped wedges. Spread at wide edge, roll towards point. Place point down on greased cookie sheet; brush with combined egg yolk and water. Bake. Remove from pan immediately and sprinkle with or roll in sifted confectioners sugar.
David's Dec.6-9 Letter
Dear Family, 6-9 Dec.,2007
Today we went to the pool and were sent back and so I basically cleaned the "house" and took a knowledge test all morning. Then, after chow, we went to the combat course. It was a course in which a team of 4 ran through with a rifle and flack jacket and helmet. Then you had to crawl under barb wire and use your bayonet. It was a lot of fun. Then, we competed in the thunder dome and did pugle sticks. I won all three matches and our plt. got first in it also. Anyway that was my day.
Friday, I had to go to med. and get 5 shots (ouch) and then I got to call home.:)
Praise the Lord! The rest of Friday, was spent standing @ attention, getting our pictures taken and going to the PX. Of course we also got I.T.ed and cleaned the house. I probably swabbed the house 8 X. Otherwise, we just packed up all our stuff.
Saturday, we played stupid games all day with our rifles and loaded all our stuff in the morning. I am sore from holding our rifles above our head for a LONG time. After chow, we stood for about an hour and I yelled out knowledge the whole time. Then, we were loaded into buses and taken to camp Pendleton. It rained most of the day so we got fairly wet. Once at Pendleton we moved into our house. Then, we had chow and cleaned everything.
SUNDAY Today, we had a great breakfast and cleaned the house and went to chow. Then we went to chapel. Church was great. Finally, we had a chaplain who preached the Word and knew the power of prayer. Finally God's Word was really preached. The sermon was from Psalm72 and Matthew 3:1-12. It was the fruit of repentance and the grace of God. Now it is free time till chow and then we get all of our gear for up here. You can pray I do well in range week--next week.
Christ's soldier,
David Pillman
Gal.6:9-10
Today we went to the pool and were sent back and so I basically cleaned the "house" and took a knowledge test all morning. Then, after chow, we went to the combat course. It was a course in which a team of 4 ran through with a rifle and flack jacket and helmet. Then you had to crawl under barb wire and use your bayonet. It was a lot of fun. Then, we competed in the thunder dome and did pugle sticks. I won all three matches and our plt. got first in it also. Anyway that was my day.
Friday, I had to go to med. and get 5 shots (ouch) and then I got to call home.:)
Praise the Lord! The rest of Friday, was spent standing @ attention, getting our pictures taken and going to the PX. Of course we also got I.T.ed and cleaned the house. I probably swabbed the house 8 X. Otherwise, we just packed up all our stuff.
Saturday, we played stupid games all day with our rifles and loaded all our stuff in the morning. I am sore from holding our rifles above our head for a LONG time. After chow, we stood for about an hour and I yelled out knowledge the whole time. Then, we were loaded into buses and taken to camp Pendleton. It rained most of the day so we got fairly wet. Once at Pendleton we moved into our house. Then, we had chow and cleaned everything.
SUNDAY Today, we had a great breakfast and cleaned the house and went to chow. Then we went to chapel. Church was great. Finally, we had a chaplain who preached the Word and knew the power of prayer. Finally God's Word was really preached. The sermon was from Psalm72 and Matthew 3:1-12. It was the fruit of repentance and the grace of God. Now it is free time till chow and then we get all of our gear for up here. You can pray I do well in range week--next week.
Christ's soldier,
David Pillman
Gal.6:9-10
Monday, December 10, 2007
David Letter #9
Dear Family, December 4, 2007
Well, it is swim week! Monday I qualified for swim 4. It was easy. You had to jump off a 10 foot tower with camies on and tread water for 4 minutes . Next, I had to swim 25 yards 2x with camies. Today I qualified for swim 3 it included getting on all our gear- including boots- jump off the tower and swim 25 yards.Next, we had to get on packs, guns, helmets, and flack jackets and 5 yards in chest high water, swim 25 yards with the equipment, and jump off a 8 foot tower and swim 25 yards. All the swimming with packs we had to swim toward our feet. That is a little tough. Got to go do devotions.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
to day I qualified for swim 2 it was not tough. All we had to do was have on a Kevlar, a flack jacket, and a rifle. Then, we had to swim 20 yards. Lets just say the equipment slowed me down a bit, but I made it. Then we had the buddy tow. We had to tow a buddy 30 yards and then switch. Both my buddy and I passed. Tomorrow we have one last swim day. Today we also packed for up North, got our debit card, a hair cut, and practiced for our oral and written tests. Those tests are on T 51- today is T 20. Anyway, time continues to pass. We also had to make our racks about 15x today and I spent time on the quarter deck. Praise the Lord for his strength and for a fun time here. I am feeling great! Pray that I stay healthy and can continue to witness to recruits.
Christ's Soldier,
Pillman, David
Is. 40
On out side of letter: P.S. I run in New Balance shoes. Cards are fine.
Well, it is swim week! Monday I qualified for swim 4. It was easy. You had to jump off a 10 foot tower with camies on and tread water for 4 minutes . Next, I had to swim 25 yards 2x with camies. Today I qualified for swim 3 it included getting on all our gear- including boots- jump off the tower and swim 25 yards.Next, we had to get on packs, guns, helmets, and flack jackets and 5 yards in chest high water, swim 25 yards with the equipment, and jump off a 8 foot tower and swim 25 yards. All the swimming with packs we had to swim toward our feet. That is a little tough. Got to go do devotions.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
to day I qualified for swim 2 it was not tough. All we had to do was have on a Kevlar, a flack jacket, and a rifle. Then, we had to swim 20 yards. Lets just say the equipment slowed me down a bit, but I made it. Then we had the buddy tow. We had to tow a buddy 30 yards and then switch. Both my buddy and I passed. Tomorrow we have one last swim day. Today we also packed for up North, got our debit card, a hair cut, and practiced for our oral and written tests. Those tests are on T 51- today is T 20. Anyway, time continues to pass. We also had to make our racks about 15x today and I spent time on the quarter deck. Praise the Lord for his strength and for a fun time here. I am feeling great! Pray that I stay healthy and can continue to witness to recruits.
Christ's Soldier,
Pillman, David
Is. 40
On out side of letter: P.S. I run in New Balance shoes. Cards are fine.
Friday, December 7, 2007
David Letter #8
Dear Family, Dec. 2,2007
Today was church again. Church was really disappointing as we had a Woman Chaplain for the first time.:(...a very poor sermon on the end times.
Anyway on a more positive subject, yesterday my platoon #3271 got first in initial drill. Then we did a mini grind (a little drill inside the house). Then, we went to chow after a lot of standing at attention. Then we had chow. After chow, we did more mini grind and then had P.T. It was the circuit course and then had a huge tug-of-war. 3271 lost, but it was still a lot of fun. Tony is home sick somewhat.
Finally, we got ice cream in the evening as s treat and watched a movie as a reward for getting first in drill. You can continue to pray that I can be a light in word and action. I am making a lot of friends here. They are a rough crowd, but I can handle teasing because of my innocence. I am glad I have been protected my whole life. Thanks Mom and Dad! Well, got to run. Next week is swim week. Next week, we go up to Camp Pendleton. This address will remain the same.
Christ's soldier,
David Pillman
Rom. 13: 11-14
Today was church again. Church was really disappointing as we had a Woman Chaplain for the first time.:(...a very poor sermon on the end times.
Anyway on a more positive subject, yesterday my platoon #3271 got first in initial drill. Then we did a mini grind (a little drill inside the house). Then, we went to chow after a lot of standing at attention. Then we had chow. After chow, we did more mini grind and then had P.T. It was the circuit course and then had a huge tug-of-war. 3271 lost, but it was still a lot of fun. Tony is home sick somewhat.
Finally, we got ice cream in the evening as s treat and watched a movie as a reward for getting first in drill. You can continue to pray that I can be a light in word and action. I am making a lot of friends here. They are a rough crowd, but I can handle teasing because of my innocence. I am glad I have been protected my whole life. Thanks Mom and Dad! Well, got to run. Next week is swim week. Next week, we go up to Camp Pendleton. This address will remain the same.
Christ's soldier,
David Pillman
Rom. 13: 11-14
A Phone call from David!
We just got a ten minute phone call from David! It sounds like he has been continuing to be doing very well. He got first in the swimming and his platoon got first in the competition between all the platoon in his Mike company. He doesn't have much time to witness, but continue praying for those opportunities. He says people think that it is kind of funny that he can have high-energy, be up-beat and positive the whole time, so praise the Lord again for giving him that spirit.
We'll continue to keep you informed.
We'll continue to keep you informed.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
David Letter # 7
Dear Family, November 30, 2007
Well, life continues to be busy. Yesterday I had a hair cut in the morning and did a lot of drill. then we had chow and did a lot more drill. We are building up to the initial drill competition tomorrow. After chow we had a fake full PFT test. I did my best and did 15 pull ups. (Pull-ups here are hard because you have to go all the way down and up) Then I ran the 3 mile run. I came in first out of 200 recruits at 18:30 minutes. It was not that good, but I did my best. Next, was crunches and I did 100. I scored about a 275 on the PFT.
Today I was called up to our Series commander and they said I was one of the few recruits they think could make a 300 PFT. My Sr. Drill Instructor said that he has never had anyone get a 300 PFT out of the 4 plt. he has had. Praise the Lord for His strength. Pray that I can do well on the initial PFT next Friday so I don't get in trouble. Today was the first inspection which meant that DIs from another plt. looked us over and asked questions and of course yelled at us. Then we did more drilling inside. It rained all day today so we were outside only to walk to chow and back. We did a lot of drill and cleaned our rifles. Then we did PT inside our house, which included push-ups, pull-up, and crunches. I did a total of 1050 crunches, 75 pull-ups, and innumerable push-ups and dips off of foot lockers. My record was 300 crunches at one time. I also got put on the quarter deck for something my rack mate did. That was OK, but tiring. (I was 7 times on the quarter deck) :). Continue to pray for Cordinez- he seems like he will accept the Lord soon-Pray!
Christ's soldier,
David Is. 40:28-31
P.S. Please continue to write letters
Well, life continues to be busy. Yesterday I had a hair cut in the morning and did a lot of drill. then we had chow and did a lot more drill. We are building up to the initial drill competition tomorrow. After chow we had a fake full PFT test. I did my best and did 15 pull ups. (Pull-ups here are hard because you have to go all the way down and up) Then I ran the 3 mile run. I came in first out of 200 recruits at 18:30 minutes. It was not that good, but I did my best. Next, was crunches and I did 100. I scored about a 275 on the PFT.
Today I was called up to our Series commander and they said I was one of the few recruits they think could make a 300 PFT. My Sr. Drill Instructor said that he has never had anyone get a 300 PFT out of the 4 plt. he has had. Praise the Lord for His strength. Pray that I can do well on the initial PFT next Friday so I don't get in trouble. Today was the first inspection which meant that DIs from another plt. looked us over and asked questions and of course yelled at us. Then we did more drilling inside. It rained all day today so we were outside only to walk to chow and back. We did a lot of drill and cleaned our rifles. Then we did PT inside our house, which included push-ups, pull-up, and crunches. I did a total of 1050 crunches, 75 pull-ups, and innumerable push-ups and dips off of foot lockers. My record was 300 crunches at one time. I also got put on the quarter deck for something my rack mate did. That was OK, but tiring. (I was 7 times on the quarter deck) :). Continue to pray for Cordinez- he seems like he will accept the Lord soon-Pray!
Christ's soldier,
David Is. 40:28-31
P.S. Please continue to write letters
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
David Letter # 6
Dear Family November 26-28, 2007
Today was probably one of the best days at boot camp. It was tough but fun. In the morning we did the confidence course which was a lot of climbing over obstacles like rope ladders, towers, and huge monkey bar type things. Then we practiced falling and leg sweeps. this all took about 5 hours in the morning. Then we had a class on History 5 which was the Vietnam war with Capt. John Repply and Carlos Hethckock. Then we had a class on mentorship. During it one of the recruits asked why DI swear and as it was the first Sargent of the corps he got in trouble because no swearing is allowed. Anyway, the DI keep saying how easy boot camp is now and basically I can agree, though it is still mentally and physically challenging.
Tuesday they played mind games all day and tore our whole house apart and then made us run up and down stairs. Then we got a dummy grade for initial drill and we did very well. We had our last first aid class and our log drills. That was tough as I was one of the tallest recruits and had to be up front. I had a lot of weight, but it was a good work out. My shoulders are sore today.
Wednesday we had a GI bill class all morning with more signing of paper work. Next we practiced with rifles and I was forced to rough up a weak recruit by the name of Bailey, but he took it pretty well. Then we had Pugle sticks and I won once and lost once. Then we drilled more and got another dummy grade. Everything is building up to Initial Drill Saturday.
Pray that I can continue to witness to more recruits-especially Cardinous.
Christ's Soldier,
David
P.S. Everything is said to be easier here because of our female Commander General Salinous.
Today was probably one of the best days at boot camp. It was tough but fun. In the morning we did the confidence course which was a lot of climbing over obstacles like rope ladders, towers, and huge monkey bar type things. Then we practiced falling and leg sweeps. this all took about 5 hours in the morning. Then we had a class on History 5 which was the Vietnam war with Capt. John Repply and Carlos Hethckock. Then we had a class on mentorship. During it one of the recruits asked why DI swear and as it was the first Sargent of the corps he got in trouble because no swearing is allowed. Anyway, the DI keep saying how easy boot camp is now and basically I can agree, though it is still mentally and physically challenging.
Tuesday they played mind games all day and tore our whole house apart and then made us run up and down stairs. Then we got a dummy grade for initial drill and we did very well. We had our last first aid class and our log drills. That was tough as I was one of the tallest recruits and had to be up front. I had a lot of weight, but it was a good work out. My shoulders are sore today.
Wednesday we had a GI bill class all morning with more signing of paper work. Next we practiced with rifles and I was forced to rough up a weak recruit by the name of Bailey, but he took it pretty well. Then we had Pugle sticks and I won once and lost once. Then we drilled more and got another dummy grade. Everything is building up to Initial Drill Saturday.
Pray that I can continue to witness to more recruits-especially Cardinous.
Christ's Soldier,
David
P.S. Everything is said to be easier here because of our female Commander General Salinous.
Friday, November 30, 2007
David Letter #4 & #5
This week we got two more letters from David. The following are the last two:
Dear Family, 25 Nov. 2007
Well today is Sunday! The church service was shallow as usual. Anyway yesterday was a tough physical day. It started out with a rough mini grind which is basically: hold our guns out at different angles as punishment till we scream with pain. Then we had 2 hours of class, chow and P.T. P.T. started with warm up exercises and then more push ups, crunches, weight lifting, jump rope, stair climbing with weights, dips, pull ups, monkey bars, and more crunches and weight lifting. Then we did agility training for 1/2 an hour and that was a lot of sprinting backward and forward starting on your belly every time. Then, we had another 45 min. of strengthening exercises like diamond push ups. We then showered and did more marching and had chow. Then we did more marching and rifle handling. Finally we c.eaned our rifles, had a Sr. drill chat and cleaned up everything. That was my day! A long 1 hour of fire watch last night. You can pray that our Plt. (3271) MIKE does well in initial drill test. It is all a competition between platoons. Also, pray I find more time to read my Bible. I have started reading it during fire watch.
My health is doing fine. I still have a cough, but I can handle that. Let me know how many deer you shot. Tony is doing well. Nathan is in another Plt. and I talked to him yesterday and his knee is bothering him. Also Tony has shin splints--you can pray they go away.
Christ's soldier,
Pillman, David Col. 1:13
On back of envelope: P.S. Thanks for the letters. I got 3 so far---all from you.
Dear Family, Saturday,Nov. 24. 2007
Life has been crazy . They keep us running and drilling every day morning till night. Lately, the D.I.s have been throwing all of our stuff in one pile in the middle of the house and we have to clean it up and sort our stuff in free time. Thanksgiving started out with going to the pit (I.T.) before breakfast and then we had class and had a bad time at drill--a lot of time holding our M16 A1 service rifles at arms length. then we had a "Thanksgiving" dinner and it was O.K. The food was not home made and I only had 5-10 minutes to eat it. Then we did more drill and our Sr. Drill Instructor let us watch a Movie called "shooter." That was nice. The day ended well. Wednesday I did pugle sticks and I beat my opponent. I couldn't remember if I told you that yet. Anyway today was a tough day. We went to the pit and then went to P.T. and did a lot of push ups and crunches. We came back and had to make out beds 3X and then we all got our water bottles dumped out and mixed up. After lunch, we did hard martial arts and 3 hours of drill and another 2 hours of drill after supper.
I gotta go. Pray for my bad cough and slight sprained ankle.
Love, David
Still Christ's Soldier
Pray for my new rock mate, Kovach--a home schooled boy from Texas.
Dear Family, 25 Nov. 2007
Well today is Sunday! The church service was shallow as usual. Anyway yesterday was a tough physical day. It started out with a rough mini grind which is basically: hold our guns out at different angles as punishment till we scream with pain. Then we had 2 hours of class, chow and P.T. P.T. started with warm up exercises and then more push ups, crunches, weight lifting, jump rope, stair climbing with weights, dips, pull ups, monkey bars, and more crunches and weight lifting. Then we did agility training for 1/2 an hour and that was a lot of sprinting backward and forward starting on your belly every time. Then, we had another 45 min. of strengthening exercises like diamond push ups. We then showered and did more marching and had chow. Then we did more marching and rifle handling. Finally we c.eaned our rifles, had a Sr. drill chat and cleaned up everything. That was my day! A long 1 hour of fire watch last night. You can pray that our Plt. (3271) MIKE does well in initial drill test. It is all a competition between platoons. Also, pray I find more time to read my Bible. I have started reading it during fire watch.
My health is doing fine. I still have a cough, but I can handle that. Let me know how many deer you shot. Tony is doing well. Nathan is in another Plt. and I talked to him yesterday and his knee is bothering him. Also Tony has shin splints--you can pray they go away.
Christ's soldier,
Pillman, David Col. 1:13
On back of envelope: P.S. Thanks for the letters. I got 3 so far---all from you.
Dear Family, Saturday,Nov. 24. 2007
Life has been crazy . They keep us running and drilling every day morning till night. Lately, the D.I.s have been throwing all of our stuff in one pile in the middle of the house and we have to clean it up and sort our stuff in free time. Thanksgiving started out with going to the pit (I.T.) before breakfast and then we had class and had a bad time at drill--a lot of time holding our M16 A1 service rifles at arms length. then we had a "Thanksgiving" dinner and it was O.K. The food was not home made and I only had 5-10 minutes to eat it. Then we did more drill and our Sr. Drill Instructor let us watch a Movie called "shooter." That was nice. The day ended well. Wednesday I did pugle sticks and I beat my opponent. I couldn't remember if I told you that yet. Anyway today was a tough day. We went to the pit and then went to P.T. and did a lot of push ups and crunches. We came back and had to make out beds 3X and then we all got our water bottles dumped out and mixed up. After lunch, we did hard martial arts and 3 hours of drill and another 2 hours of drill after supper.
I gotta go. Pray for my bad cough and slight sprained ankle.
Love, David
Still Christ's Soldier
Pray for my new rock mate, Kovach--a home schooled boy from Texas.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Thanksgiving
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving season. Lucas and his roommate Ryan Akers arrived around 2:30 on Wed. afternoon. They had driven 18 hours straight through from Virginia along with a fellow classmate from Eau Claire. With three drivers they arrived relatively rested. We went to a Thanksgiving service and Lucas delivered his bumper. He sold it to a couple in the church. Uncle Noel, Lauretta and Phyllis were with us for Thanksgiving Day. Jessica and others made lefse and pies. The boys did several hunts, but did not get a deer. The Olsons gave us two of their deer for venison. We appreciate the Lord's provision. With much help from Matthew, Peter and Dad, we got it cut up on Mon. Tues. we took 50 pounds over to our neighbor, Al, to get it ground into hamburger. The temps. have been down to 5F with winds. It feels quite cold. I put straw on my tulips and tried to cover my hybrid roses with tarps. Hopefully they will survive the winter. Most of all we are thankful for a joyous Thanksgiving. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. Ryan and Lucas are safely back at Patrick Henry College in Virginia.
David's next letter Nov. 20
We received the following letter in the mail on Tues. Nov. 27. So far, we have no indication that David has received any of our mail. They may save it for a few days before he sees it. We thank each one who is praying specifically for David.
Dear Family, 20 Nov. 07
I have basically got into routine. Monday, I had a MCMAP class which is basically martial arts. Probably the toughest thing is all the bad language and dirty talk. We have a talk every day with our Sr. Chief Drill Instructor Jones. His talks are practical and we talk about Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Class is about History and First Aid. I have been used by the First Aid Instructor for a lot of silly examples, but at least it keeps it interesting.
Tuesday, we had pugil sticks. I defeated my opponent and then I went to a class on WW II History. Well, I gotta run. Pray for endurance through the monotony of drill.
Christ's Soldier,
David Pillman
P.S. Please send me a schedule.
Dear Family, 20 Nov. 07
I have basically got into routine. Monday, I had a MCMAP class which is basically martial arts. Probably the toughest thing is all the bad language and dirty talk. We have a talk every day with our Sr. Chief Drill Instructor Jones. His talks are practical and we talk about Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Class is about History and First Aid. I have been used by the First Aid Instructor for a lot of silly examples, but at least it keeps it interesting.
Tuesday, we had pugil sticks. I defeated my opponent and then I went to a class on WW II History. Well, I gotta run. Pray for endurance through the monotony of drill.
Christ's Soldier,
David Pillman
P.S. Please send me a schedule.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
David's second letter
Dear Family, Nov. 16,2007
Well today I did the obstacle course. It went well. Also my rack mate is going to be kicked out due to a knee injury. His name is Marrs and he is going back to Texas. You can pray for him as he is a nominal Christian. This is a big blow for him. You can also pray that I get over the bad cold I have. Otherwise I have just had a lot of classes.
Nov.18,2007
Well, this is Sunday and I finally got time to finish this letter. Yesterday, we had PT which included a lot of push ups and then sprints and more sprints.Then we had about four hours of class lecture on History and Courage. Otherwise it was just chow and more marching drill and we learned how to take apart our M16 A1 service rifle.
Today, we got up normal time, had chow and then I went to church with Tony Ward. It is an ELCA liturgical service, but it is still good to read from God's Word. We also have a communion every Sunday. Otherwise everything is pretty monotonous. The biggest thing they stress is keeping clean, both ourselves and the house (barracks) and bathroom (head).
I have pink eye so you can pray I get over it. Everyone is sick here.
Anyway let me know how everyone is doing and say "hi" to Lucas and Ryan. You can also send me Lucas' mailing address.
Christ's soldier,
Pillman,David Prov. 18:10
P.S. Please keep these letters as they are the journal I have. Also you can pray I don't get in too much trouble as I am one of the squad leaders.
Well today I did the obstacle course. It went well. Also my rack mate is going to be kicked out due to a knee injury. His name is Marrs and he is going back to Texas. You can pray for him as he is a nominal Christian. This is a big blow for him. You can also pray that I get over the bad cold I have. Otherwise I have just had a lot of classes.
Nov.18,2007
Well, this is Sunday and I finally got time to finish this letter. Yesterday, we had PT which included a lot of push ups and then sprints and more sprints.Then we had about four hours of class lecture on History and Courage. Otherwise it was just chow and more marching drill and we learned how to take apart our M16 A1 service rifle.
Today, we got up normal time, had chow and then I went to church with Tony Ward. It is an ELCA liturgical service, but it is still good to read from God's Word. We also have a communion every Sunday. Otherwise everything is pretty monotonous. The biggest thing they stress is keeping clean, both ourselves and the house (barracks) and bathroom (head).
I have pink eye so you can pray I get over it. Everyone is sick here.
Anyway let me know how everyone is doing and say "hi" to Lucas and Ryan. You can also send me Lucas' mailing address.
Christ's soldier,
Pillman,David Prov. 18:10
P.S. Please keep these letters as they are the journal I have. Also you can pray I don't get in too much trouble as I am one of the squad leaders.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Our First Letter from David
Nov.15, 2007 Training day 3
Dear Family,
I finally found time to write. They keep us running around from morning (0500) till well after sundown (2200). it is great but some times a little brain racking due to all the yelling and time on the quarter deck (I.T.). I have had a little time to talk to recruits about God, but not much because we are not allowed to talk to each other. Basically we yell all the time and if you don't scream you get punished. Sadly the D.I. (Drill Instructors) have leanred my name but they do not use it too much. I have only been to the quarter deck 4X. You can pray I can find time to read the Bible as it is really hard to find time to do any thing but what the D.I.s say. I got to see recruits graduating today. That was cool. I also started.
Training on hand to hand combat. The first week all we did was walk around and wait in lines. We had to stand at attention for up to 8 hours at one time and some time all night and the DI would not let us sleep for the first 48 hours. Since then I have gotten plenty of sleep. Every other night I have five whach in which you have to be awake for 1 hour doing nothing but cleaning and marching here. The food is great with salad, apples, oranges, BBQ ribs and vegetables for supper today. You only get about 5 min. to eat it, but thankfully I am a fast eater. I finally got my ugly glasses, so that was nice as my other glasses just broke. Another thing that takes some getting used to is going to the bathroom only when told. One night the whole platoon was almost wetting themselves and then the DIs only let two go to the head at a time. Anyway you will have to let me know what you are all up to. Got to go.
Love, David Pillman
Rom. 5:3
Phil. 4:13
P.S. I am in MIKE company. Look it up. It is said to be one of the toughest companies.
Dear Family,
I finally found time to write. They keep us running around from morning (0500) till well after sundown (2200). it is great but some times a little brain racking due to all the yelling and time on the quarter deck (I.T.). I have had a little time to talk to recruits about God, but not much because we are not allowed to talk to each other. Basically we yell all the time and if you don't scream you get punished. Sadly the D.I. (Drill Instructors) have leanred my name but they do not use it too much. I have only been to the quarter deck 4X. You can pray I can find time to read the Bible as it is really hard to find time to do any thing but what the D.I.s say. I got to see recruits graduating today. That was cool. I also started.
Training on hand to hand combat. The first week all we did was walk around and wait in lines. We had to stand at attention for up to 8 hours at one time and some time all night and the DI would not let us sleep for the first 48 hours. Since then I have gotten plenty of sleep. Every other night I have five whach in which you have to be awake for 1 hour doing nothing but cleaning and marching here. The food is great with salad, apples, oranges, BBQ ribs and vegetables for supper today. You only get about 5 min. to eat it, but thankfully I am a fast eater. I finally got my ugly glasses, so that was nice as my other glasses just broke. Another thing that takes some getting used to is going to the bathroom only when told. One night the whole platoon was almost wetting themselves and then the DIs only let two go to the head at a time. Anyway you will have to let me know what you are all up to. Got to go.
Love, David Pillman
Rom. 5:3
Phil. 4:13
P.S. I am in MIKE company. Look it up. It is said to be one of the toughest companies.
Friday, November 16, 2007
David's Schedule
Here is a general schedule of what David is doing. As you can tell we have been keeping close track of the days! :-)
David's Address
We got a form letter today from David with his address. Once again I would like to emphasize: absolutely no packages of any sort, no pictures, and no money; only letters. His address is:
PILLMAN, DAVID, P
3rd RTBN M CO Plt. 3271
39003 Midway Ave.
San Diego, CA 92140-3274
Please make sure you copy it exactly as written. Realize he is very pressed for time, so his reply correspondence will be limited, but he will certainly enjoy letters of encouragement. The letter was not a personal one, he only signed his name, so we don't know any more than this. I will post his schedule so you can have a general idea of what he is doing each day! Thanks again to all who have shown their support!
PILLMAN, DAVID, P
3rd RTBN M CO Plt. 3271
39003 Midway Ave.
San Diego, CA 92140-3274
Please make sure you copy it exactly as written. Realize he is very pressed for time, so his reply correspondence will be limited, but he will certainly enjoy letters of encouragement. The letter was not a personal one, he only signed his name, so we don't know any more than this. I will post his schedule so you can have a general idea of what he is doing each day! Thanks again to all who have shown their support!
Monday, November 12, 2007
No word yet
We are waiting to hear word from David. We expect to hear from him during this next week. We'll post anything we hear. In the meantime we pray for him as he has completed his week of orientation and begins the first week of boot camp.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
David leaves for the Marines
As David left for the Marines, he did not need to take much time packing. He wore the clothes on his back and carried with him a Bible, an address book, $20, his social security card and drivers license, and contact lens solution. He will be issued new glasses and personal effects and all of the necessary clothes and shoes needed for boot camp. Even the clothes he arrives in will be put into a bin until he returns home. He will be given a physical and his head will be shaved. That is boot camp. Sat. we went through shoes and clothes tossing the most worn. Although he plans to be back for 10 days in Feb., in essence he is gone for five years. We will miss him. He will miss many special days including Thanksgiving and Christmas and birthdays. At present, Jessica and Matthew and Uncle Noel plan to attend his graduation in San Diego on Feb.1
The Lord will strengthen him and help him and uphold him with His victorious right hand.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Off to Marines
David left at 19.30.00 hours for Marines boot camp. He is going to MEPS in the morning (the physical) and leaving around 4.00.00 hours for receiving in San Diego. We will miss him. We will keep you posted when we get his address. Thank you for all your support!
Saturday, November 3, 2007
A Word or Verse for David
I would like to give you all opportunity to give David a verse, quote from a poem or song, or some other advice or direction. Together as a family we had a time tonight where we shared verses and song songs with him, and I thought it would be special if others could contribute verses as well. He leaves tomorrow, so if you can post by then, that would be great, but we will forward on to him any that are posted after he leaves. I know there are many of you who have had a special part in his life, and I thought it would only be appropriate to allow you to give him a special word of encouragement. Feel welcome to comment on this post to support him as he leaves! We appreciate the support!
Pillman Cuisine--Raccoon!
We are always game to try any new food as a family. Sometimes we come up with a delicious cuisine, and this just happens to be one of those occasions. We were out Raccoon hunting with our neighbors last night, and ended up with 9 coon. We figured we wouldn't let all the good meat go to waste, and brought home some legs to eat. We used this recipe, and it turned out great. Everyone greatly enjoyed it. They did not taste at all "gamey," and were very tender. My mom called the meat like a mixture between pork and beef. For all of you to have the opportunity to try it, I figured I post the recipe here.
You first start by acquiring your coon. You skin and take off the quarters. (the rest of the coon is edible as well, but most of the meat is on the quarters, so it is simplest to just eat the quarters) Bring them home, and remove all the fat you can (you can actually do this anytime before you start cooking them), and let them soak in salt/soda brine for about 6 hours (longer is fine). Take them out of the salt brine, and put them in a pot to boil. Boil them with salt (and onion if desired) until thoroughly done.
mix together:
You first start by acquiring your coon. You skin and take off the quarters. (the rest of the coon is edible as well, but most of the meat is on the quarters, so it is simplest to just eat the quarters) Bring them home, and remove all the fat you can (you can actually do this anytime before you start cooking them), and let them soak in salt/soda brine for about 6 hours (longer is fine). Take them out of the salt brine, and put them in a pot to boil. Boil them with salt (and onion if desired) until thoroughly done.
mix together:
1-cup ketchup
½ cup cooking oil or butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp. garlic powder (or to taste)
1 Tbsp. onion powder (or to taste)
1 Tbsp. salt
¼ cup lemon juice
1 tsp. pepper
pour over coon, and let sit until ready to grill.
Grill until browned as desired.
Eat with relish, forgetting the species it came from. (which is not hard considering the exquisite taste)
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
David's Send off Speach
David's send off Speech
I was asked to give a few words today in regards to my decision to join the military. I really only have one answer, the answer that has become an American rallying cry: "I have not yet begun to fight!" There are really two ways to take this simple but powerful declaration. First, my time in the military is still in front of me. I have not yet begun to fight. It seems like I was in this same position not that very long ago. The story starts back at the last time I was asked to give a speech at my graduation. At that time I talked about the past and future, but as stated then the past can never be changed, only God knows the future and each and every moment of “today” determines the extent of our life. Also as mentioned then the military was a possible answer to the question of the future. So as God has guided and directed through two years of Bible School, I now feel called to pursue God’s call to protect our country as part of the United States Marine Corps.
Since I have not yet begun to fight, I have struggled with the questions that many others have asked me. With question such as, can a true Christian actually fight and kill some one? Or is there a more full time mission field that you could be involved in here or abroad that would be more affective? I think it all comes down to the question, where has God called YOU? I would far rather go on a 14-mile run then answer some of these tough questions but I thought it necessary to state to you how a young Christian could feel called to join the military. Nevertheless, I see it as an opportunity to defend the innocent citizens of our nation as Job talked about doing in Job 29: 17 “To break the fangs of the wicked and pluck the victim from his teeth.” This is precisely what John Paul Jones was doing when he declared, "I have not yet begun to fight!" I take it as my cry as well. This is the second meaning of these wonderful words. It is true that in the process, the death of the enemy may happen at my hands but it is all in the protection of my fellow soldiers life and in the defense of the innocent Americans at home. But these deaths are the result of sin, not wrong in themselves.
I am also looking forward to the physical and mental challenges ahead of me to prove that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phil. 4:13). I think I will be quoting this verse a lot in the months and weeks a head. I know that God has a special way of working through hard times. As stated in Rom. 5:3 That tribulation produces perseverance, even if that tribulation is self inflicted see that I was the one who signed up to go to boot camp.
More then any thing my desire for having you all hear to day is to ask for your prayer support during my time in the military. As much as the physical challenges in the military I think there’re going to be greater spiritual challenges in the way of temptations and unchristian company. I need you to keep me accountable so that I may stay on the straight and narrow way and be a example of Christ and not an example of what a Christian looks like when he falls. We are promised by Jesus that in this world we will have tribulation and temptation (John 16:33) and I am sure at times I will fail but that is when I need to be pointed back to the Jesus who has over come the world. You can be one of the pointers to show me Jesus once again. I need you to declare on my behalf "I have not yet begun to fight!"
I am privileged to have a Christian friend going with me by the name of Tony Ward. I have known him since I was small (yes, at one point I really was small) and I feel privileged to have him along with me as a buddy through the enlisting process and now through boot camp. So when I fall, be it on an obstacle course or in my spiritual walk I will have a friend there to lift me up. I am also shipping out with another friend of mine by the name of Nathan Houscamp.
As I think back over the past years since graduation I must once again thank my parents and siblings for all the support they have given me through all my crazy adventures. I also would like to thank the staff and students at the AFLC Bible School that I attended for two years for teaching me from the Bible, and also giving me opportunities to lead and help out with activities on campus. I also had a great VBS team this summer who supported me as their leader and challenged me spiritually. With out these people I would not be as prepared as I am now both physically and spiritually for the challenges ahead of me in the Marine Corps.
Primarily I want to thank the Lord for his faithfulness to me over the last 20 years of my life. It is only as the Lord is Semper Fidelis that I will be able to be Semper Fidelis. It is only with the Lord that I will always no matter the circumstance or type of battle, be able to say, "I have not yet begun to fight!"
The End
David's Send-Off Pictures
Monday, October 29, 2007
David's Send-off
Thank you all for coming to David's send-off. Your support is a real encouragement. We had plenty of treats for everyone, thanks to the many people who were so generous and brought a variety of cookies, bars, and even milk! We estimated we had about 150-160 people present for the program, and there were a few more that either left before the program, or came after it was over.
We would especially like to thank those who shared, including Cpt. John Mueller (Navy), Pastor Les Johnson, and Bob Ebersprocher, who presented David with a Gideon New Testament on behalf of the Gideons. A big thanks goes to the Brown Family, Kurt, Sophia, Daniel, Sarah, Hannah, Bailey, as well as Brandon Marschner, Naomi Finney, Julia Osthus, Anna Alme, and Angela Lackey, who stayed around and helped us clean up.
We would also like to thank each and everyone who is praying for David as he prepares to embark on this new stage in his life. We pray that the Lord can bless him in this endeavor, and that David may be a bright, shinning example of Christ's love to all around him!
We would especially like to thank those who shared, including Cpt. John Mueller (Navy), Pastor Les Johnson, and Bob Ebersprocher, who presented David with a Gideon New Testament on behalf of the Gideons. A big thanks goes to the Brown Family, Kurt, Sophia, Daniel, Sarah, Hannah, Bailey, as well as Brandon Marschner, Naomi Finney, Julia Osthus, Anna Alme, and Angela Lackey, who stayed around and helped us clean up.
We would also like to thank each and everyone who is praying for David as he prepares to embark on this new stage in his life. We pray that the Lord can bless him in this endeavor, and that David may be a bright, shinning example of Christ's love to all around him!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Rain, rain, rain
We have been having a stretch of rainy days. The weather has also been unseasonably warm. We actually went for a swim in the pond on Saturday, Oct.6. On Friday, David came upon a creek flowing over the road. Some highwaymen waved him through the stream. He felt like his little Aspire was going to float away. It didn't. On Sat. morning, David went turkey hunting and Matthew went deer hunting during the Youth Hunt Weekend. Neither one came up with anything. David has some more days to try. Matthew will need to wait until regular hunting season now.
Along with pink applesauce, we have been enjoying pies--apple and pumpkin! YUM!
Along with pink applesauce, we have been enjoying pies--apple and pumpkin! YUM!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Send-off for David
You are invited to a SEND-OFF for
DAVID PILLMAN
David has enlisted into the U.S. Marine Corps with our blessing. He ships to San Diego Boot Camp on Nov. 5th. We desire to send him with a spiritual emphasis in the presence of friends who want to support him. At the gathering, David will share why he enlisted and how he desires to serve the Lord Jesus and his country in this way. The event will take place on
Sunday, October 28, 2007 2-4 pm with the program at 15.00 hrs. (3:00pm)
at
Christ the King Lutheran Church
located on Highway 128, 2 miles north of Highway 29 or 2 miles south of I94 taking exit 28. The church is on the west side of the road, formerly Cady Elementary School.
No RSVP is necessary, but if you have questions or need directions, please contact us at (715) 235-8076 or pillmansprogress*at*gmail.com. We hope to see you.
Because of Jesus,
Paul and Josie Pillman family
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Saturday Work Day
We had a good hard day of work today in beautiful fall weather. We hauled up a 400 pound pumpkin, some squash and gourds and decorated around our fence. Jessica got some corn shocks from our neighbor's field and used them to decorate the lamp post. We removed our aging summer petunias and replaced them in the flower boxes with gourds and squash.
We did some inside cleaning of all 6 of our vehicles. After lunch, Jessica made baked doughnuts. Yum! She got some help from Matthew. We canned 7 quarts of ripe roma tomatoes and finished filling our basement room with wood for warmth in the winter. We heat completely with wood. We have bread and broccoli soup on the go and are expecting the Brown family of 8 for a light supper. Justo and David went to help Steve Olson hammer nails into a ceiling that is being repaired. Paul got his old Aspire running enough to get it to the top of the driveway to sell.
The leaves are beginning to turn. The temperature today got up to 70F. What a gorgeous day the Lord has given us! We hope to take a walk in the woods with the Browns.
We did some inside cleaning of all 6 of our vehicles. After lunch, Jessica made baked doughnuts. Yum! She got some help from Matthew. We canned 7 quarts of ripe roma tomatoes and finished filling our basement room with wood for warmth in the winter. We heat completely with wood. We have bread and broccoli soup on the go and are expecting the Brown family of 8 for a light supper. Justo and David went to help Steve Olson hammer nails into a ceiling that is being repaired. Paul got his old Aspire running enough to get it to the top of the driveway to sell.
The leaves are beginning to turn. The temperature today got up to 70F. What a gorgeous day the Lord has given us! We hope to take a walk in the woods with the Browns.
Welcome
So what is this blog about? Like the blog description says "The activities, adventures, prayer request, and pictures of a Wisconsin family of 8" Yes we are a family of 8. Paul and Josie (or Dad and Mom as they are generally referred to around this house!) have been married ever since September 1st, 1979. They were missionaries overseas for 8 years before moving back into the Midwest. Half of us kids were born in Ecuador, one in Texas, one in Minnesota, and the remaining in Wisconsin where we now live. We have spent the last 13+ years here in the Menomonie area. Right now Dad (Paul) is a Chaplain in three Nursing Homes, one in Menomonie, one in Mondovi, and one in Eau Claire. Mom (Josie) is the one who keeps the home fort organized, and running. She does most of the meals, keeps track of most of the schedules, and teaches the two kids still in school. Justo (currently 26) is an Industrial Engineer with an automation company north of Minneapolis. He has a heart for missions and desires to get back to Ecuador where he lived until he was about 9. Jessica (currently 24), the traveler of the family, is serving God as he leads. She is at home unless called elsewhere. She helps out at a Nursing home as a CNA when time permits. Lucas (currently 22) is in his last year of college. He is attending Patrick Henry College in Virginia, studying Government and Public Policy. David (currently 20) is the active one of the family. He is enlisted in the Marines, and is planning on serving until 2011. Peter (currently 16) is still in school. He enjoys playing piano and hunting. Matthew (currently 13) is of course still in school as well. He is diligent in his work, and enjoys getting outside. We enjoy music as a family, particularly the good old hymns. We love the opportunities we have to sing together as a family at a local Nursing Home and at special functions. Our ultimate purpose is to glorify the Lord in all that we say and do (Col. 3:17) This is a blog about our life, and with updates on our family. It is staffed by all the members of the family. Lucas and Peter have blogs as well so you can get their twist on life (if they are keeping up their blog!) Once again, Thank you for stopping by, and enjoy reading about our busy life.
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