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Dear Corey,

Happy pen pal-aversary! I don’t know if that’s a thing, but I’m claiming it as such. We’ve been writing to each other for two whole years. I can’t believe it.

Sorry I missed last year’s date. To be honest, I think I was in the middle of a mission and didn’t have time to come up for air.

Never mind that though. Tell me something about the guys at the ranch. Or about you. Any little details help. I’m bored out of my mind with all the stuff they’ve got us doing these days. I really just want to go back to patrol duty. It’s much easier than this push and pull they keep doing the rest of the time.

I wish I had more interesting things to talk about. It’s weird that I don’t have a hobby or anything like you do. I loved the blanket you sent by the way. I didn’t notice any flaws like you claimed there would be. The stitches were perfect.

A couple of the guys looked at me funny for having a blanket like that sent, but I told them it was a handmade gift and they let it go. I think they thought it was from a grandma or something. Or from someone in a caregiving role at least. I’m not sure. Didn’t stop to ask really.

There’s not much else for me to say. Another day, another sandstorm. Hopefully, this time my letter makes it to you a little quicker. It’s anyone’s guess with the way things get handled over here.

In case it doesn’t get to you in time, I wanted to wish you a happy birthday. It feels weird saying that cause I’ve never met you in person and also because you’re younger than me. Is it creepy that you write to some old guy who is stuck in the desert?

Either way, I hope your day is great, and that someone makes you all the delicious sweets you deserve.

Your friend,

Ashley