The Other Side to the Story

I recently had to read a book for my history class. It's called Generation Kill written by Evan Wright. My teacher occasionally adds it to the list of books we had to read this semester, she said it was somewhat of a controversial book, because she receives many complaints about it. Overall, I did not see the controversial part, I enjoyed the story of these brave men.

Before reading the book I had not been familiar with the Iraq War or military in any way. I have no friends or family serving, so it is a world away from me. This book opened my eyes in so many ways. The author did such a good job at painting the picture of the war and the setting that the men were in. The harsh weather, the horrible conditions, and the lack of supplies. There are many not so positive things I could say about the war, but I was amazed at the soldiers in the story. Wright again did such a fantastic job about depicting these men. He illustrates their physical features and how built they were. He shared about their personalities during combat as well as off the field. Throughout the book, I truly felt like I knew these men and my heart went out for them every time they had to go up against a tough situation where they were usually being ambushed or just struggling with missing their families.

I also saw the other side to the war. Wright also described the Iraqi civilians and what they were going through. They are people just like me. They are scared people trying to provide for their families who are struggling with so much. It broke my heart to hear about the conditions they have to live with. To think that they live in a war torn country day in and day out while shots and bombs falling are an everyday occurrence. I am truly blessed.

Whether my teacher knows it or not, my eyes have been opened to what is really going on across the world. My prayers are now filled for those brave men and women who are trying to fight for what is right and for the poor, hurting, sick, and scared civilians.

I highly recommend this book to others as well. It is an amazing book to get an inside look at this war that we all seem to be consumed by, but may not know as well as we think. There is a lot of profanity in the book...so it may not be for the easily offended. Enjoy reading!

Halley

Christmas has come to our humble abode!

It's that time of year and we are up and ready for the busy season. We have been stuffed with turkey and are now looking towards the hustle and bustle of the next couple of weeks! We have put up the tree and hung the stockings with care. Now all we need are some presents under the tree. We're looking to all this great season will come with, cold air, the season of giving, good friends and family, and all the cookies we could ever want!

We have also had some exciting news as of late. Amy is finally an aunt! Gavin Mattingly Jernigan was born November 18th, 2008, a little after 7:00 pm. He was born 9lb., 8oz. and is as cute as a button. Amy is a very proud aunt as are Ashley and I. We all can't wait to see him grow up.

Here are a few pictures of Santa's little workshop in our house.