Howdy. Things are as always busy. Life never slows down even for a minute. I'm doing well, and still really enjoying my job. If its not fires, hurricanes or tornados; its training and paperwork. Today marks my first full year with the Texas Forest Service, hard to believe its already been a year. Abilene is okay, ...well its here anyways. Not alot to do. I did start dating a girl I graduated high school with, Rachel, we've been seeing each other since mid-March. Things are good, she's living in Fort Worth and is contemplating moving back to Odessa. Its a 2.5 hour drive either for me so... Don't know if you've paid much attention to the news lately, but the state of Georgia has had some monster wildfires (over 60,000 acres burned). They've called for support from the TFS, and it looks like we will get deployed this Friday or Saturday. I'm really looking forward to it, my first out-of-state fire assignment! Probably working in the plans section but might help work with the media. I should be gone 14 days and return late May, keep your fingers crossed (need that overtime...lol). I think I finally found my purpose in life, this career just makes sense. No matter what we respond to, its about helping people and protecting our natural resources. For me its just right. Of course there is that adrenaline rush that stays constant. Anyways, hope you all are doing well and are staying safe. Take care and talk to you soon. Shawn