Entry #14: October 28, 2005

Wackernheim, Rhineland-Pfalz, Germany (just west of Mainz and the Rhine River)

McCully Barracks

Sometimes you never really understand how much you miss things until you experience them again. It was comforting to return to my beloved South for a brief bit of leave. Packed into the week was witnessing the cross-country county championship, some time in Athens visiting my brother Matthew—who I am proud to say will be getting one of his two college degrees this December—Homecoming at my alma mater, Presbyterian College, and some quiet time at home with the family and friends.

When I stepped onto the plane in Frankfurt, it was a crisp 40 degrees out, typical German autumn weather. Upon arrival in Atlanta, I experienced the warmth—and stickiness—that accompanies 85 degrees with 100% humidity. It was glorious. My mom picked me up from Hartsfield and promptly indulged me in my first request. I needed some Chick-fil-a. After that, we headed out to the Georgia International Horse Park to take in the Rockdale County cross-country championship. Though I was disappointed in Rockdale’s performance (kids these days, I swear), I was mildly pleased that my record will survive at least one more year.

Next stop, my college football mecca, Athens, Georgia. Home of the Bulldogs, Sanford Stadium, and my middle brother, Matthew. We enjoyed some quality fraternal bonding time at his house, enjoying each other’s company. I won’t get into details, but don’t worry no one got arrested.

Homecoming at Presbyterian College is quite symbolic of everything good about America and especially the South. We had the nationally ranked Blue Hose football team winning their game, fresh bar-b-que and fried chicken, men decked out in oxford shirts and khakis, boiled peanuts, and, to my sublime satisfaction, some of the most pleasant and beautiful Southern Belles to be found anywhere. I can’t even begin to tell y’all how refreshing it was to hear the charming sound of a Southern lady saying, “Hey y’all, the food’ll be ready in jes a minute. Preston, get your hands outta the chicken.” I got to see most of my good friends from my fraternity whom I profusely thank for their continued prayers and support. It was a fantastic weekend. A good time was had by all.

After touring my little slice of heaven of the Southeast, I rambled back home to join my parents for church. On Monday, I caught up with Brad, one of my best friends, to watch the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night football. We went to a fine establishment known for its atmosphere and terrific wings. We intended on watching football (which we did), but we also participated in the trivia contest. Needless to say, between Brad and I we did alright, winning the contest and with Brad gaining the $25 gift certificate—they don’t have restaurants where I’m going.

My last night in town, I went to eat with Eric and Kevin, two more of my closest friends who have forsaken small town life, headed to the city and live in Buckhead. We ate at a small brewery/restaurant called Rock Bottom (a place I was far from). If y’all have never eaten there, the Shrimp’n Grits are a cornucopia of goodness and flavor. Finally, it came time to say goodbye to my friends, my family, and my beloved Georgia and head back to Germany. The final countdown begins now. And so the Soldier’s life continues…