A Letter from Jed

I got a letter from Jed today that said:
I just remembered I should update my blog. So, here is an entry for you to put in.
Basic Training is definitely interesting. I have learned a lot. It is definitely a lot of hard, tiring work. The worst part is being away from everyone. But, I have done a lot of things I never would have. Like repel a 60 ft wall or climb down on a rope that's about 35 ft in the air at a steep slant coming down, crawl in dirty water and overcome obstacles. I passed my PT (physical training) test the other day, including running 2 miles in 15:07, which for me is awesome. I had to look twice at the clock when I got there. But, I was at 77% for sit-ups and 76% for the run. The push-ups are a different story but I passed that too, I was at a 52%.
The first phase, red phase, is almost done. We next head to white phase which gives us a little more control away from drill sargeants. You have no idea how excited I am for that. I was given the assignment of company guidon, which means I carry the company flag, so I stick out if I make a mistake in front of 250 plus people. Good thing I don't make mistakes!
Besides being hungry, tired, and every joint and muscles aches, basic is alright. Definitely looking forward to getting it done though. I never expected to be in the Army, and somedays I wonder why I did it. I do know that it has been good for me. It has tested every aspect of me, and is teaching me more about me, and what I can do. I hope I can translate that into a better me overall.

New Website

Hi everyone! I got a letter from Jed's commanding officers today to let me know when he graduates and things like that. I think it's really cool....he graduates basic on Hailey's birthday, so we will get to spend the whole day with him after his graduation. The letter also had a website address in it that his drill sergeants put up a weekly letter and pictures and things like that if you want to keep up on it. I also have an address (finally) if you want to write him letters or send him anything, though he is not allowed to get any food or reading material (not that he reads, but still) in packages. The website is http://www.wood.army.mil/2-10IN/D_Company.html and his address is (and it has to be written exactly to actually get to him):
PFC Robins, Jed
Co D, 2-10 Infantry, 2nd Plt
495 Iowa Ave., Unit 42
Fort Leonard Wood, MO 65473
You also need to write 2nd Plt on the back side of the envelope for sorting purposes. Thank you all for your love, support, and prayers while Jed is gone.

Three Weeks of Basic Done

Well, I have talked to Jed twice since my last posting, each time for four minutes. He is doing well at basic. The first week he said he was pretty sore. They had gone repelling the day before I talked to him and his harness had been too tight and left a blister on his thigh, so that was causing some discomfort. Then, this last week they did the CS gas chamber. He said that was definitely an interesting experience. He has a PT test tomorrow that if he passes will move him into the next phase of basic...whatever that means. Sorry I don't have more to report, I really don't know that much either. He is doing well and we miss him dearly. We sure appreciate the continued support and prayers.
Oh, if anyone wants to email him, which I'm sure he would appreciate, the branch will print off emails and give them to him on Sundays. The address is nephi37@embarqmail.com and you just put his full name in the subject line. Have a great day!