"The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave... " -Patrick Henry

Wow. I have come through so much to get to this point. In 23 days I will be leaving everything and everyone I know in pursuit of a new life. A well deserved, better life. I have overcome so many obstacles and in truth, am thankful for each one. I firmly believe it is during the tough times when who we really are shines through.

I am so lucky to be blessed with a wonderful husband that is standing behind me while I chase my dream of becoming a Soldier. I know it is so very hard for him to let me go away to a place where we aren't together. It will be a challenge for us both, but I know we will persevere as stronger individuals and even closer as a couple.

I would be lying if I said that I'm not nervous about Basic Training. The fear of the unknown gets me every time I think about it. I am at least, going with the confidence that I am going to be good at this! I can feel it with every fiber of my being. This is what I was meant to do; I just had many, many roadblocks to push out of my way before I was truly ready.

I love nothing more than detail, organization, discipline, and structure. I look forward to being able to wear the uniform of the United States Army, and feel the pride of FINALLY being a SOLDIER.

God bless us all who willingly undertake such a responsibility.