Proud Father, Great Son, GO ARMY!

Although lots of info has already been shared about our trip to Oklahoma, I would feel remiss if I didn't post a few things.  There are lots of good stories to tell about the 36 hour drive, watching a guy wipe-out on a motorcycle, getting milkshakes along the way and drinking 5 Hour Energy during the drive. (more on that in another post).

But the obvious best story is the story of Nick.  It was so good to see him.  I really missed that kid!!  I gave him a huge hug the first chance I got.  As you might imagine, 40 pounds later, there was a lot less of him to hug.  Looking at Nick I saw a confident young man......a bit different than the kid that left Chapin. The tough physical and mental training made an impact on him and the best news was that he LIKED it.  To say I am a proud father doesn't give justice to the feelings I had that day.

We didn't have a lot of time with Nick.  8 hours on Thursday and another 8 on Friday. We went out to eat a couple times, went to a movie, did some shopping, played some board games in the hotel room, and generally talked and relaxed. It was what Nick wanted and that was perfectly ok with us.  With an 18 hour drive behind us and another one merely hours away, we weren't up for anything strenuous.

The graduation ceremony on Friday was awesome! I tried to upload some videos from the event but the "error" messages finally got the best of me.  (I promise I will learn how to upload videos in the near future......)  I wish I could explain the ceremony but I know I can't do it justice.

Regarless, here are a few pictures that you may or may not have seen on facebook. 

Soldiers! You better be back on base by 19:50! I THINK the Sargeant had their attention!



                      

 Now THAT'S a hug!  Not sure which one is squeezing harder...



Proud Mama getting some attention from her Soldier.  Nice haircut, Nick!

My lovely escorts to graduation

...and their lovely shoes, for those of you that were wondering.