photogrammatical

So, I’m trying out a mobile version of the blog and I’d like your thoughts on it.  Most of my site traffic is on desktops and laptops, but lately I’ve had up to 20% readership coming from iPhones and other mobile devices. That’s an awfully big chunk.  In an attempt to better that experience, I’ve installed a plug-in that recognizes mobile browsers and formats the posts for them.  No more zooming in and out to view pictures and text.

Last Friday, I went down to Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego to attend my cousin Randy‘s Boot Camp graduation.

It was a little surreal for me, I hadn’t been back since my own graduation almost exactly nine years ago.

It still smells the same, sounds the same, and continues to be a place I’m happy to depart from.

After 10 days at home, Randy will report to the School of Infantry, followed by Light Armored Vehicle Crewman’s Course, just as I did.

In fact, Randy will have the exact same job and be assigned to my old unit when they return.

When I heard Randy had decided to join the Marines, I wouldn’t agree to talk him out of it.

But I did do what I could to ensure he would be surrounded by the finest Marines I know.

The family is very proud of Private First Class Alexander, especially me.

It’s been over two months now since the last update on My Heart is Across the Ocean.

I’m sorry to report that in that time, my old Marine unit has taken casualties in Afghanistan.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t taking it hard.

It is no secret that I’m awfully sentimental where my Marines are concerned.  Add a healthy dose of Irish Whiskey to that and it takes a patient and tender woman to deal with me.  I’m very lucky in that department.

It’s not lost on me that I seem to be the only one in this situation allowed the luxury of falling apart.

Tomorrow will be the first of the unit funerals here in California, and the first I will be able to attend.

I have been dreading it.  I have been dreading it with all of my heart.