Monday August 16, 2009

(This is a letter we received from Justin. Posted by Lynell)

Greetings from beautiful Fort Knox K.Y. Home of the legendary 4:00 A.M. wake up call, 1.5 hour formations in the hot sun and of course the drill sergent that makes you cry when he is complementing you.

I'm writing from my bunk on the close of day 6 and I'm still waiting in reception. It's weird to think that it's been a week since I left. It feels like it's been months. This past week has been an eye opener for me. I've met people from almost every State, that came from every status of life and it's amazing to hear some of the stories people have.

I'm making friends fast. It's easy to get to know people because we have to spend almost every second together (all 100 of us). I met a return missionary from Draper Utah who also happens to be a 68w health care speacialist. It's helped a lot to be able to talk to another Mormon among all the profanity.

I'm getting pretty good at this whole army thing (despite what the drill sergents tell us all each morning). I've learned when to speak, and not speak, and how to stand, and when all else fails to just stand still and pretend I'm a tree.

Like I said I'm still in reception but the rumor is we can start basic training Wednesday or Friday. That means I can start counting down the days until I graduate and come home again.

So tell me whats going on there. How is everyone? How is the garden doing? Did Nick get his mission call? Are all the kids getting ready for school? I feel pretty isolated since I haven't left a 3 block area all week. But we still haven't got an address that you can reach me at. So you won't be able to write back still. Sorry, I'll get it to you as soon as I can. By the way I got to go to church on Sunday, and the missionaries said they would get your e-mail. So hopefuly that all worked out.

Well don't worry abouty me. I'm working hard and Heavenly Father is keeping a close eye on me. I miss all of you so much. Throughout the day I hear or see something that reminds me of home and I wish I were home more than anything. You guys seem so far away. I guess that's why they call it home sick. But I know it will be a very short time till I find my way back home to you all.

Give everyone my love. I love you all so much and can't wait to hear from you. Thank you for your prayers and support, they help more than you know.

Love your Soldier,
PFC Jacobson

I'm off to Basic

Tuesday August 11 I'm shipping off to Fort Knox Kentucky for a fun filled adventure. After months of practicing war games on my x box I think I'm finally ready to get in there and thrash some nations (metaphor). Some people would say that im going off to face the cruel world all alone, but im never really alone. Thanks to everyone for all the love and prayers. I'll see you all in 28 to 30 weeks.