Dallas is back! Commence happy dance!

Hi All, 

Great news--Dallas is back in the states!!! Hurray!!! 

He made the 15-hour (airtime) trip fairly easily, although it took him a few days. Since he was returning separate from his brigade he did not have a set flight schedule. Luckily, he was able to grab an open seat with a random redeploying brigade and found his way back to Washington without any major hiccups. After a few days of much needed detox time, he is currently preparing to take over the Rear Detachment Battalion Commander or "Rear D" position. Although substantially different from his previous duties, the job will have many challenges and he is excited to tackle them head on. 

He wanted me to pass along his love and grateful thanks to everyone once more. I'm not sure he, or I, will ever be able to express the appreciation we have for everyone's amazing support over the past months. 

So what's on to docket for the Dasher now? Well, I am still logging about 70-80 miles a week and looking forward to my second race of the season this Saturday. Last week's race was a decent opener but I know having Dal at future meets will help things go more smoothly. Speaking of, Dal is ramping up for a go at the steeple chase this summer--an event that he hasn't competed in since the beginning of college, but that he was always good at. Should be an exciting time for him!

Additionally, I am looking forward to beginning my doctorate program in Physical Therapy. Honestly, (and primarily) I am looking forward to solidifying all the plans surrounding the start of school.  I am required to be in Savannah, GA for the start of classes in early May but the means of travel and all details are not yet completely decided on. Once Armstrong Atlantic sends the initial welcome packet, we will be able to tie up the lose ends... Which will allow the focus to shift to the rigorous coursework of the first two semesters. 

In the meantime, Dal and I are going to take advantage of the time we will have together here in Washington. He will not be able to follow me for quite a few months and, although a depressing prospect, we would have to be separated regardless due to military training in the fall. Following this path will allow me to work towards a DPT while he completes a few schools of his own. After completion he will (hopefully) be joining me in Savannah and be stationed at Ft. Stewart. 

Until then we will continue to train, race and enjoy our time taking weekend trips in our "new" old school VW Bug. :) 

Look for a new update from Dallas soon! I can't believe he is actually back! So awesome!

Xoxo-

Ash