Pics of Steven at Ft. Jackson (Pic - Heavy!!!)

[chicken_china_mom]

Wow, he graduated already? I know it seems like it took forever for you since you were the one anxiously waiting for him to finish, but to those of us on the sideline watching, it seems to have flown by. Tell him congrats. I was there myself nearly 15 years ago, and I remember the tough training. It makes for a better person, it really does. God Bless him and keep him. I bet he's glad to be home too!

 

[WriterofWords]

Thank you! I went through my basic (AF) in June '81, it seems so darn long ago! Oh,,, it was hehehehehe. The other guys in his platoon kept coming up and introducing themselves and telling me how much Steven helped them, especially on the firing range and in the gas chamber. That made me feel really wonderful, that he was appreciated by those around him, especially since around here he's had nothing but trouble with bullies all through school. This was the best thing that could have ever happened to him and I think it will make a big difference in his last year of high school too!

 

[ranchhand]

Congratulations to Steven and Kate, you BOTH graduated this time! Great job, both of you!

Is Steven home yet? And Kate, you made it through very well!

 

[WriterofWords]

Thank you, and no he isn't here yet. He's driving back with his father, the truck broke down (I told them so) that his father bought from a trusted friend in VA. He had to have it towed from NC to Columbia $375, he missed the family day and barely got there for graduation. It's long ugly story, but they are still in Columbia working on getting Steven home.

 

[WriterofWords]

Here he is!!!
First hug since June 9!!

Picking up chicks:

He's the one in green:

Let's go home darn it!

With DS:

 

[anngili]

Congratulations!! You must be one proud momma!! He looks happy, confident, and like he's a sweet young man, too (how many boot camp grads will pose in front of other guys with a chicken on their shoulder, just for you?)

 

[WriterofWords]

And the official portraits:

 

[WriterofWords]

Quote:
Lot's of people asked about that chicken too! I sure wish I'd had my cards to hand out then but I ordered them late.
And thank you, I am sooooo proud of him.

 

[LilBizzy]

I dunno- has that first hug picture been touched up? Cause if it were me, my eyes would be all red and puffy from crying happy proud tears!!
The official portraits- in the first one, he looks so grown up. Then you look at the second one and think.." He's still just a baby"
( please dont tell him I said that- its a parent thing LOL)
You must be so proud. He should be also!

 

[speckledhen]

Such a strong, handsome guy you have there, Kate.