Letters from Josh

We finally heard from Joshua and we have Emma to thank for it. Josh hasn't opened many of the letters he's been sent, but Emma's artwork inspired Joshua's drill instructor to have Josh open her letter. In turn Josh wrote to Dan and Crys, along with their kids. A letter to Maryland followed quickly on the heels of that letter.

Crystal was able to scan her letter, so I can (and will) send that one via e-mail. I'm not that clever so I'll type his letter here (with appropriate mom edits to compensate for Marineese)

"Dear Family
I don't have time to write any letters, so this one will have to be brief. The only reason I'm writing is because the SDI keeps asking us why our families haven't sent anything. I don't want him to think that I'm not loved because goodness knows that isn't true. So please send me some protein bars, real protein bars not some crap cereal bars, and POWDERED Gatorade. Mom please send me some great pens so I don't have to write with crappy ink sticks, I know you know I'm picky ab about my pens, just like you, so please help me out. I also need some workout gloves, I wear a size large ad I know it would help if I had some.

Now, the last thing I want to ask for is some pics. Even though I can't write you doesn't mean I can't tell my friends about you. My men seem real interested about my life so any pictures of the family, friends, Tish and Jason and even ex-girlfriends would help.

I'm also sorry about uncle Brent. I don't open letters down here but the DI made me open one. Since it was opened I decided to read it. It was a letter telling me about Uncle Brent. I did cry and spent an hour staring out the back window. As weird as it sounds however, I believe he has caught up with my boyz (i.e., friends) and great grandfather to assist me while I'm down here. When things get rough I rind, from somewhere an extra push. It's hard to explain.

With my leaving words know that I love you all, you mean the world to me and because of all of this I know that you'll be protected. Save your tears. Show your smiles. I'm living my dream.

Love always,

Joshua Anderson

PS. Mohawk Joe, I just wanted to let you know that I miss you too. As for finding myself (Joe told him in a previous letter that he hoped Josh had found himself because he knew this was an important goal of his big brother while at boot camp; moreover Joe thought that he'd see Josh when that goal had been completed) Guess What?!?! I have, come to find out, I was never lost buddy and now that I know that I'm stronger than ever! I'll be seeing you soon. In six weeks you'll be giving your brother a big bear hug.

Rct. Anderson"


I want you each to know how much I appreciate the letters you have sent to Josh. I think him not opening his mail upon arrival is his way of looking inward for strength ... we don't always understand each other, but we always love each other. Your support of Josh means a great deal to me and I know that when the moment comes that he reads your letters --- just as it did when Emma's picture provided an opportunity for Josh to feel her love and the love of her family --- he will appreciate you too.

Also, Jayson and the Marine Corps told us not to send packages, especially not packages with food. I'm not sure why Josh has asked us to do so, but I will be responding to his request (geesh, what ELSE am I supposed to do I'm his mommy!) Let us collectively cross our fingers in hope that he is not required to eat an entire box of protein bars .....!