Breakout!

My daughter Hollywood sent me an email telling me their ratline PT is over! At dinner tonight they will have their belts removed and will "release their strain." Straining is what they have had to do since matriculation back in August. When in barracks they must hold their head, neck and shoulders in an awkward position known as straining. It is also referred to as the amount of exercise they are made to do. Today is the day they have all been looking forward to - breakout. After a lot of grueling physical challenges today, they are "breaking out of the ratline." They are no longer rats and have become part of the Corps. Hubby and I will be leaving at 5 a.m. to drive up and spend the day with her tomorrow. It has been a struggle and we are all relieved and grateful.