Welcome to Field Artillery!

Today, was Stan's first day of Field Artillery school. This morning, he was issued all the supplies and materials he would need for the course. He was issued 40 books, a hand-held computer, maps, calculation manuals, etc. He had a few hours to bring home the materials and get situated before the classes began this afternoon. I had today off from work and was home when Stan arrived. I was shocked when he came through the door with both hands full and with more in the car!

I asked Stan why he has to know large amounts of material like this. He explained that since he is an officer, he has to understand all the jobs that the guys under him are doing. I have a feeling the next 4 months for Stan are going to be spent studying, studying, and more studying!

Stan's new hand-held computer.

His life for the next few months. Looks like fun, huh?

Bringing home the Christmas tree!

After spending the day shopping, we went to a Christmas tree farm (a.k.a. Lowe's) to pick out our tree. Our original plans were to go to a farm in Duncan (an hour away) but after our day of shopping, we were tired and were eager to get the tree. We settled on Lowe's because it was convenient and cheaper. Here are some photos of us bringing the tree home and decorating it!

Wichita Mtns. Wildlife Refuge Trip #2!

We were able to return to our favorite place- Witchia Mnt. Wildlife Refuge on Columbus Day because Stan had the day off! We were excited about exploring some more of the refuge. We did some more hiking and went on a picnic. During this visit, we saw a wild Longhorn bull!

Here are the photos we took...

The hike began at a lake.

We took a breather about half way.

Photos from the top of the mountain..



BEAUTIFUL

Wichita Mtns. Wildlife Refuge Trip #1!

Our first weekend in Lawton, we decided to do some exploring. We visited the Wichita Mountain. Wildlife Refuge, located about 15 minutes from base. The Refuge consists of 52,000 acres some of which is on Fort Sill. The land there is breath-taking, and we've decided it is the most beautiful land we've ever seen. We went hiking and actually ran into some wild Bison on the way! We had a wonderful time and hope to return soon!!

These are some of the photos we took...

Wild BISON!

Our new home- Lawton

This picture was taken at our new apartment. Stan's first day to report for training.

The main gate at Fort Sill.

Our journey to Oklahoma.

Our very first home in Anderson- The Bowen house. We were able to stay there for a few weeks before we packed up for Oklahoma.

Our Penske truck! It was full!

Sweet home Alabama!

I missed the Georgia sign because I was too busy driving.

Mississippi state line!

In Tennesse! Only about half way!

Crossing the Mississippi River. Akansas here we come!

After entering AK, we were getting low on gas and Stan insisted on waiting a few more miles before stopping. Little did we know, there's not much in AK. We went about 20 miles before we even saw an exit. Luckily, we made it to the nearest gas station.

We stopped in Little Rock the first night.

And, at last...in Oklahoma!!

First Lawton sign. We were excited!!