Emery's First Birthday

Retirement Photo

Retirement photo of boots that were made in Belleville, Illinois, deployed twice to Iraq and recently gifted to a proud father who ironically was born in the same town.

Janelle Making Adjustments!

It seems that Jonathan's time in Iraq had a greater impact on him (and on Janelle) than what we expected!

Lunch with Jon, Danny and Emery

Within 48 hours ... never to early to introduce a Crocker to a Sam's Hot Dog...even if it is just the sight and aroma!

Home

More pictures at http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020015&l=21dc3a5d82&id=1359456675

Soccer Game Faces

Downtime in Iraq

Jonathan is second from the left. They went to the Swords because one of the guys was reenlisting. They loaded into the "uparmoured SUV's and enjoyed a little outing in 120 degrees. It’s always nice to get out and about.” His recent life schedule is work from 8am till about 11pm and get some sleep when he can ... so any break is a good break.

Ps 20:4-5, May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord grant all your requests. NIV

Mother and Daughter

For Jonathan

When you went to Iraq the first time we sent you off with Psalm 20:4-5 and I thought I would send these words to you again.

“May he (the Lord) give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord grant all your requests." (NIV)

Warren W. Wiersbe says about this passage, “Before the army went out to battle, the Jewish law of warfare required the officers and soldiers first to dedicate themselves to the Lord (Deut 20:1-4), and this psalm speaks of such a dedication service. "Battles are won the day before," said Marshall Loch, commander of the Allied forces in World War I.”

The Message paraphrase has a nice wording of verse five: “When you win, we plan to raise the roof and lead the parade with our banners. May all your wishes come true!”

Took the picture of the flags at the rest stop between Cheyenne and LaGrange

Jon's new home

Jonathan has reached his final destination in Baghdad at the International Zone. He says he likes it so far. The food is good and conditions are so much better than his previous deployment. The jet lag has been bad. I will post his address as soon as I get it.

Awana Verse

This is one of the “pictographs” that Janelle uses to teach her boys their Awana verses. This is Colossians 1:3, We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, (NIV).

Newest Grandchild

We watched Danny Wednesday morning while Janelle was at the doctor's getting a baby picture! The caption on the ultrasound picture reads "Baby possibly sucking thumb." The baby is do in May.

New Journey, Again

I awoke this morning thinking of Jon and Janelle, and the boys getting in a cold car. It is "daylight savings dark" outside, 2 degrees with light snow. I thought and prayed for them knowing they have a long family drive to Denver…the start of a longer journey for them. I like to check BBC online in the mornings and saw this map and was reminded that I have an keen interest in this piece of real-estate ... once again.

Paul sent his brother (in-law) this paraphrase from the Message on Ephesians 6:13-19. They are good words for all of us! “Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.”

Pre-birthday Party

Tonight Jon and Janelle had a “pre-birthday party” with a few presents and cake for the boys since Jon will be in Iraq during their birthdays this year.

Toni brought some homemade chicken noodle soup and Janelle made a chocolate frosted yellow cake. Jon leaves tomorrow for Fort Dix.