Jack Thomas Miller, if I want to send you a box of cookies, then I will send you a box of cookies! I'm not the only one if us who can be as stubborn as an old mule, you know that. You're most welcome, and I'm glad you enjoyed them. It makes me smile to know that.<br/><br/>I don't know what Ralph was thinking, or why he's not in the service, but I really don't care. I just want to forget about it and move on. Don't go getting mad and hurting people because something happened back here that you have no control over! You have to focus on your training, Jack. That is what's important right now.<br/><br/>Of course you won't wash out. I've known you my whole life, and you're one tough boy. I can't remember you ever failing at anything when you put your mind to it. So just keep trying, and do what they tell you, and soon, very soon, you'll be flying in a plane of your own. I can't wait to see a picture of you all decked out in pilot's gear! You'll look so smart.<br/><br/>You're mother and I had a great time together after church last Sunday. She's teaching me how to sew a quilt. We've been cutting up my and your father's old shirts and using them to make patterns. She said it's for me to put in my hope chest for when I get married. That made me laugh! I don't have a hope chest, and I'm entirely to young to think about getting married! Still, I'm enjoying spending Sunday afternoons with her and learning a new skill.<br/><br/>There are more and more of our friends leaving every day to go into the army or navy. It feels like pretty soon no one will live here anymore. And every couple of days there is news of someone else who won't be coming home. They've started up a volunteer ladies group at church to call on families who've lost loved ones and offer support and help. Every time a black car with a white star on it drives by, a wave of fear washes over the neighborhood. Promise me you'll make it home. I couldn't stand losing one of my best friends.<br/><br/>It's late and I need to get to bed. I hope to hear from you soon!<br/><br/>Always,<br/><span class="bbc_font" style="font-family: lucida handwriting;">Evie</span>