Yes, the system works

Just so I can't be accused of passing on misleading information, read the first site explaining the second site. The first is a news article from the Air Force Link
The second is linked from a place called Cellar.org
and this third is just a photo gallery with more pictures from StrategyPage
Now go laugh cause it is REALLY funny:-D (Thanks Paul, that was a good start to my morning)

Oh the life I lead

I swear, I have somehow found myself living a most boring life! Nothing to write about, wouldn't want to bore you with blandness LOL:-D Not, that this is a bad thing mind you. I like my routines, my predictibility.
Other than school (and the impending panic on how to pay for it, discovered that GI Bill isn't helping ALL the way. Not to fear, I have signed up for scholarships and what not galore), there really isn't much happening.
This last weekend Daniel and I took a road trip up Mount Lemmon, and I was horribly dissapointed in what I found upon reaching Summerhaven at the peak. The Summerhaven of my youth was an idyllic site, relativly few houses, a little gift shop, and many, many trees providing shade. What I found was houses upon houses, the trees chopped down and thrown by the wayside. I understand that they had a recent fire and that rebuilding new houses was neccessary, but to this extent? Ick! Other than that it was a great afternoon, seeing the beauty that is Mount Lemmon.
I sent in my 3rd math quiz yesterday and am feeling quite proud, as I got a 78 on it. Compare this to a 48 the first quiz, and a 64 the second. When it comes to math, I SUCK!!!!!! But all other classes are well, I will start writing my research paper this week on King Henry the 8ths politics and life. Fascinating subject that one is.
If you like time killers, and I do, I found this site to be a great one: www.jigzone.com I LOVE putting together the puzzles, and it does pass the time rather quickly.

new sites

While roaming the web as is my wont in times of boredom, I found these two websites. The first, is from a well known personality, the author of the weekly "News of the weird" and is just a brief overlook of weird news: Backstage at Newza da Weird
The next is a couple of college kids who obviously do not have enough of a study load, and like to lip sync. Alot. It's very funny though: Murph's Lip Syncs
Enjoy

Pictures

Just a few pictures of my beloved cat for you all:-D
Things here are great, just rather normal and boring:-D

Patriotism lives on

Daniel and I went out to dinner tonight to celebrate the fact that he was hired on full time to his job from the temp service. We wanted to go somewhere nice, so we settled on the newest Japanese steakhouse in town, Benihana's. Lucky us, we got there at a very good time and were seated promptly with another group. During the course of dinner, in conversation Daniel and I said we had just moved to Tucson a few months ago after leaving the Army. At the end of dinner, when the checks were being handed out, the gentleman across the table for us, told us, "In thanks for your service, I am picking up your check"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WOW WOW WOW!!! This was just amazing to us, and to the gentleman should he read my blog, THANK YOU again.

Gone Fishing

Or at least that is where I would like to be. This past weekend, I decided that it was time to get out of the house and take a drive. It was to be a beautiful weekend, not a cloud in sight and sunny beyond sunny. We loaded the car up on Saturday with all necessary equipment, and headed south, to Lake Patagonia State Park. We got there early afternoon, and soon had found an ok site to pitch our tent. I wanted to go out on the water to do a little fishing, and so we went to the little store to see about renting a boat (ridiculous prices I might add, I could rent a car for less). Once we had done that we went to the marina. We had taken out a row boat as it was less costly, but once we actually got out there, it was discovered that neither one of us really had the coordination needed to actually make it beyond the buoy, and so back to the pier for us, and fortunatly the store was kind enough to give us a credit for next time that we can put towards a MOTOR boat ROFL:-D After that little fiasco, we ran around the lake a bit trying to locate a good fishing spot that was not overly crowded, which turned out to be a rock formation under a bridge where there was only a few others. After learning how to cast my rod and whatnot, we stayed there for awhile, with no luck, before packing it in and heading to the car. It was still early in the afternoon, the sun was shining, the wind was blowing enough just to cool things down a bit, and we wanted to finish the drive as described in my AZ road guide, so south we went again, towards Nogales. There we discovered the most interesting little winery that allowed you to sample their wines before purchase, and so we left with two bottles of whites. Next door was a bakery with the biggest and softest chocolate cookies, and that is what we munched on the way back. While Daniel set about to get the nights fire going, I headed to the nearest dock to get in some more fishing (again, nothing). As I knew the chances of me catching anything eatable were slim, I had packed up hotdogs, and of course that camping staple, stuff for S'mores! Yummy ooey gooey goodness. Later that night, after the fire had died, and we were tired, off to bed we went, though not to sleep. get your minds out of the gutter now. The location I had set the tent was not only on a slight downslope, it was also on a ton of very hard rocks that were murder on our backs! So, the next morning, after twisting our sleeping bags and clothing about us in a vain attempt to rest, we achingly packed up, and drove home, straight to a very LONG HOT bath. But, I love camping and being out of doors, so I've no doubt that very soon we shall be at it again, mayhap this time on Mount Lemmon, the site of many fond memories from childhood:-D

I'm still here

Long hours, tedious work, constantly busy, tired, stressed, I LOVE this job. Right back in the middle of things right where I belong and I love it. I had overtime last week, I know I will this week, but I am never bored. I work with interesting people, more than a few retired military, though most of them were officers. I sit right out in front so I see everyone who comes into my section and I have taken to posting a quote for the day on my cubicle (So "Dilbert") so everyone who wants to read it has to stop at my desk. Sneaky little me:-D
Unfortunatly we were unable to head up to the ren faire last weekend, as our friend couldn't make it down, but hopefully we will make it once more before the last weekend over April Fools.

New jobs

After a few weeks of boring unemployment I finally started a new job at Raytheon, doing what else: Admin. But I really think I have found a place I like. 2 days in and I feel rather at home:)
In other news, we are gradually moving in a setting up our new place. Last week all of his household goods came in from Miami, and mine are scheduled to come in on Saturday, so we actually have a bit more furniture in the place, and I will have my stuff soon:-D YAY!
There is the possibility of one of Daniels friends coming down to visit soon, and if so, it's off to the fair again:-D hehehehehe. I look forward to sucking it in yet again and pushing my breastesies up to mythical proportions again. "Mythical Proportions" is seemingly my new phrase after I made a comic remark about it at the office, regarding a picture LOL.
School is going alright, save for Math, of course I blow. But I am doing ok keeping up with everything else.

Moving weekend

So we spent our weekend moving things between our old apartment next door and our new, bigger apartment. A nice bonus for me is that I now have a sunny backyard in which to have my many potted plants that I desired. I now have 2 types of tomatos, marigolds, oregano, chives, cilantro, basil, and 3 types of peppers: Habanero, Jalapeno, and Serrano. Plenty of fresh salsa makings for hubby.
Anyway, we spent all day Saturday moving stuff and then Sunday we scrubbed and cleaned. Also on Saturday I had the pleasure of lunching with an old friend I had not seen in some years downtown. That was alot of fun.
Do you know that it is darned impossible to find a small mom and pop mexican restaurant here on the northwest side that serves breakfast? We didn't know this until we spent an hour searching LOL!

I'd rather be................

Out riding a Harley! The sun is shining, the wind is blowing just a wee bit, and the roads are calling. Ah well, supposed for now I will just survive rolling the windows down, the sunroof opened, with the wind mussing my hair.
Eventually I plan on getting my motorcycle license and a bike, but those are expensive propositions LOL.

so much

I really must write more, so much has happened recently.
For a little while DH and I were operating under the assumption that my 19 y/o sister would be joining us out in Tucson to continue in gym and schooling, but she decided to stay with the family back east for now and found a great gym out there. Regardless, DH and I have continued our plans to move next door (literally LOL) into a 2 bedroom apartment, which will give us space for a small office where both of us can do our schooling.
A couple of weeks ago I made the decision to stop pulling my hair out and leave the job I was at, as I was not particularily happy. I again put my resume out there, and almost immediatly had 2 great job offers, one from a nationally known government contractor, and another from a health care center. As the Health care center paid better, I decided to go with that one, and currently am waiting the results of the background check. For now, I am taking the time to catch up on my schoolwork and also filling in temporarily at a local construction company to keep the paychecks flowing. Entertaining work.
Unfortunatly recently we also had to give up one of our beloved cats as it had become very apparent the two were not getting along, and the older was definatly our problem child, so she had to be given back, as we do want more pets in the future.
Well that is that update from me, I will endeavor to write more frequently.

The renaissance festival

Sunday we went north a couple of hours to indulge in loads of fun and merriment:-D I rented a costume, and Daniel bought a simple one and off we went:-D While there I purchased a new bodice that did wonders for my cleavage. I swear I have never been ogled more, had more pictures taken with me, but had way more fun then ever before! (you will see what I mean with the picture of me) We also went to the Pleasure feast and lord that was SOOOOOO much foood and fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The feast jugglers.

DAMN he looked sexy!

"can't breathe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Commercials

Was anyone else sorely dissapointed in the quality of the commercials this year? The Budweiser/Bud Lights delivered, as did the "Don't Judge" ads, but seriously, ABC: sheesh enough with the self promotion!!! TOO many ads for ABC shows in my opinion. Anyway, between the rather lame game (who DIDN'T see that ball NOT go across the line!), and the lame commercials, I gave up at the second half and hubby and I hit the road in favor of somewhere else entirely, Bookmans.
Today, back at work though my usual cohort is out, much sympathies to her and her family right now. I spent a good majority of the morning on hold or talking to machines. Human contact please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hehehehehe. Hopefully the boss man remembers that I am sorta on my own here and I do need to eat eventually. He popped out awhile ago.
Anyways, School starts today, and I have a heavy load and am not looking forward to keeping up, but this is a good start:-D

Super Bowl

So I am sitting here watching the Super Bowl, though not for the game (Patriots fan, remember?). We are watching for the commercials. Early I made the comment that this would be the time to have Tivo:-D Fast forward through the game (he is a 49ers fan, fyi) and just watch the commercials. I did love the beginning, where they did a take on Dr Suess. That was great.
I am not allowed near sharp instruments now after slicing my finger while slicing potatoes. Ouch LOL.

Sick Days

Ah, the ability just to go home when I am unwell, and not have to worry about the fuss of sick call and trying to get quarters and so on and so forth. Yesterday morning I made the mistake of taking my anti inflammatory (I seem to have developed a touch of tendonitis) on an empty stomach and about 30 minutes later was wishing to die as it had made me very nauseated. So when the boss man came back, I simply stated that I was not feeling so hot and so when our part time person came in, I would be leaving. He had me run a couple of the deliveries, and then I took off and went home, where I promptly curled up on the couch with the kitties. Mal does love to snuggle.
I like running some of the deliveries actually. Not only do I get to drive around, but I get face time with the people I talk to regularly on the phone. I am well acquainted with most of our clientele via voice, but occasionally I like to match faces to voices.
Oh, about driving around, I LOVE IT. I roll the front windows down, open the sunroof, turn the radio up as loud as I can tolerate it, and enjoy the 110+ days of sunshine we have had here in Tucson. Man I love this town!

Politics in the workplace is always a NO NO

NO, I didn't bring it up, but yeah, so not going there again. I got one heck of an earful about it.

One advantage of working for a coffee place: all the coffee I can drink, and on mornings like this where I just want to go back home and curl back up into my nice warm bed, I need it LOL.

I start school again next week, this time taking on 4 classes at once, so this will be a challenge, but one I am up for. I really just want to get my classes done and out of the way so I can move on to what I really want to do in life. I like my job don't get me wrong, but this is not what I want to do for the rest of my life.

Moments of frustration

I love my job, I really do. But I do have a stretch point for sheer stupidity still, and right now, we are there. There are so many little silly things, i.e. most of my customers pay a different price for the same thing depending, and mind you only one price is listed in Quickbooks so I have know that particular person gets such and such price and change it manually. It's annoying to say the least.

So I am talking to my best friend last night, catching up on the gossip and what not, when she mentions that my name, and my blog are being used as a bad example, using inaccurate information to do so. I'm gone people, let it go already! Or did you hate me that much? Just stupid is my opinion.

In other news, I just weathered a pregnancy scare. My body apparently likes to play tricks with me, and led to a couple of days of VERY nervous nail biting. I do want to get pregnant, eventually, but NOT NOW. eeeeeeeeek. Too early. I start school again the beginning of February and this quarter I have a full load; math, spanish, history, and science on the agenda. I need to finish school first. DH was rather sweet about it, once I finally fessed up to why I had been so very cranky and unable to sleep. His concern? The cats and what would we have to do with them LOL. His way of thinking: not stress til we know for sure; my way of thinking: Worry about how this changes a number of things, too soon, worry about how I'm going to tell Mum ("I swear it was an accident!" LOL), so on and so forth. At one point we were discussing, and I made the remark "well it's your fault" and he responded with "I sure as hell hope it's my fault" ROFL. It lightened the moment, but now I am relaxed and not so worried. Oh and before you ask, yes I take pills daily!

More is better

I joined Curves yesterday, and had my first workout today. I hurt, but in such good ways right now:-D Hopefully in the next coming weeks I will regain my good health and good shape:-D

On the Purple Heart Stamp

I got this today:
Dear Mrs. Mesa:

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for signing the Purple Heart Stamp petition on my Senate website. I am pleased to announce a major victory for supporters of the Purple Heart Stamp with the news that the United States Postal Service will continue to print the stamp despite the recent rate change. The Postal Service made the announcement last Friday.

With the recent increase in postal rates, supporters of the Purple Heart Stamp, including members of Military Order of the Purple Heart, were concerned that the Postal Service might discontinue the stamp which honors the heroes who have received the Purple Heart Medal. In response to those concerns, I launched a petition on my website to urge the Postmaster General to continue issuing the Purple Heart Stamp honoring the heroes who have received this medal. On December 19th, I also wrote to Postmaster General John Potter, delivering a list of hundreds of names of individuals who signed my petition.

This is wonderful news for all recipients of the Purple Heart as well as the supporters of this important and historic stamp. There was clearly a tremendous amount of public support for keeping this stamp in circulation, so I am delighted that it will continue to be issued by the Postal Service. This stamp honors those men and women in uniform who have made tremendous sacrifices in the defense of our nation. I am so pleased that we will continue to see it printed in their honor.
Sincerely yours,
Hillary Rodham Clinton

Stranger things have happened in this small world

Saturday night we went out to a bar for one of his friend's birthday parties. In the conversation, Iraq came up and we started to compare notes. It didn't take long before one of the girls and I were open mouthed having realized that we were in AG at the same time, and lived not more than 100 feet of each other, but neither one of us could quite place the other. It was just amazing! We even discovered that we had tattoos done by the same person ROFL!!
Life is funny that way!

best friends

Darling, you need to email me your number so I can call you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I got a new phone and phone number and I don't have yours anymore. Oh, and not to mention I still need your email addy. And that's ok, my kings english is still bad too :-D

Not a fan

I never really have been too much a fan of Hillary Clinton, for some reason she just didn't sit right with me. BUUUUUT, that having been said; THIS is a good thing. So go sign people, it is for the betterment of all (I think that is a word ROFL)
http://clinton.senate.gov/issues/veterans/index.cfm?topic=purpleheart

Insanity Thy Name is boredom

One of the requirements of my job is to screen callers for the boss men. Obviously they don't wish to be interrupted by telemarketers. So guess who gets to listen to the spiel:-D Sometimes I want to tear my hair out, other times I want to die laughing at the sheer desperation. Ah such is life. But this is what happens when I have slow times, I will inevitably get one of those calls.

Looney Tunes

This was rather amusing.
http://rumandmonkey.com/widgets/tests/lunatics/


(editors note 1-20-06: It works now, I promise)

Finally I understand

Daniel and I are sitting here watching the 5th season of 24. I of course had heard much of this show, it was a favorite while camped out in Iraq of the majority of my company, but I just never had any interest in it. I preferred Stargate LOL. Anyhoo, it is just intense!!!!!!!!! Now have to go and rent the first four seasons!

Quizzes

So I have learned that most people think that I met my husband in Miami (understandable), and that my all time favorite show is CSI (it's MASH) :-D Oh yeah, and that my eyes are blue. Nope, unlike most blondes, I have brown eyes. It's been entertaining:-D
This weekend thus far has been decent, Daniel and I headed to a local gun show where I saw plenty of cool guns. Right now my next aquisition is planned to be a Ruger Mark 22LR, for plinking and possibly competition shooting later on. Fun Fun Fun. On our way home we stopped at the coolest little Catina on the east side and then took a trip through the Saguaro National Monument park. When I was younger, I remember taking many a trip out there for picnics and field trips, and I love it. I just love this city. I can't wait until we have all of our belongings here, because then we will have our tent and we can go camping:-D

Counters

I have gotten less and less obsessed with checking my blogpatrol counter in recent months (other things to do), but I logged on today and noticed that in the last year and a half of existance I have now had almost 105,000 visitors. So to all of you, I say thanks, and glad to know you are interested:)

And just because I am bored today, I created a Tickle quiz just to see how well you all know little old moi:-D

1. Have I ever gotten a speeding ticket? * Yes * No. I'm a law-abiding citizen
http://connect.tickle.com/test.html?id=Ispb6Kt3VGRJTxgK&
If you are up for the challenge, be my guest and let me laugh:-D

Busy days

It has been a busy past few weeks for us here in Sunny land. Christmas we spent in Texas, New Years again in Texas, though this time we just drove to El Paso, and of course my settling into my new job has occupied much of my time as I was training to replace someone who was retiring. I enjoy my job greatly, as it puts me right back where I like it, smack dab in the middle of things with non stop activity:) Oh so much fun.
This last weekend we decided on a whim to go roam the city and look at houses. Now that is an adventure. We did find a couple of places that tickled our fancy, but for now we are still just floating the ideas around.

New Years Resolutions

To enjoy life to the fullest
To smile no matter what
To roll the windows down, turn the radio up, and let the wind blow through my hair.
To know when to stand up, and not be walked over
To be supportive
To enjoy every last minute of every last day

Merry Christmas

I hope everyone has had a great Christmas and gotten everything they want.
Darling dear and I headed to Texas to enjoy the hiliday with his family. Unfortunatly the day before, he got violently ill and so travelling for him was a misery. Once upon a time I LOVED flying, but then unfortunatly I grew up, and developed severe motion sickness. I fly, me and Dramamine become best friends. Our flights went well, but then when we got there, we discovered that his sisters were sick too, and having been around DD, I was picking it up. So his poor parents had to take care of 4 sick children over Christmas. Over all though we had a blast, mostly just hanging out at the house. Christmas day we had Christmas dinner with a good chunk of his family, turkey, ham, and tamales:)
Since our flights came in aroung 11:30 last night, we didn't get much sleep, and so I spent most of my morning drinking coffee and trying to stay awake. Of course, dearheart had to lose his keys, so this made for much amusement for my boss this morning, as I subsequently had to return home, and promptly picked them up out of my bag on the kitchen table ROFL! He doesn't like me right now LOL. Tonight we went out to Lowes and picked up a small shelf with hooks attached for keys and my purse.

A full week

I started my week by getting fired from my job, which was rather depressing, though I am ending my week with a new job that I LOVE. It puts me back in the middle of things right where I enjoy things. I work for a small company called Cafe La Finca, an importer of fine coffee from Mexico, and some of the best tea I have ever tasted. I am doing the same thing I was prior to leaving the Army, which makes me happier than pie.
So, what is everyone doing for Christmas? And are you finished shopping yet? I finished my yesterday when I picked up my darling's present. I had it all picked out awhile ago, and i would tell you what it is, save for the fact that he is reading over my shoulder;-)
I got to speak to Baby Brat on the phone today, shortly after the girls sent a picture of him reading in the mall while they were all shopping. Ah, typical male:-D

Lazy Saturdays

Slept in this morning, before rolling out of the bed and throwing on my schlub clothes to do laundry. The bad thing about having a laundry facility vs in the apartment is that doing laundry is that much harder, so we only do it once a week. This leads to about 4 loads a week that gets all done at once. Yeeech. I really don't mind doing laundry so much, as I really mind the walk with the heavy basket. Ok I will stop my whining now:-D My husband has done it the last two weeks running so it really was my turn.
Then this afternoon we headed to the range to fire a few rounds through my newest pistol. I was rather dissapointed personally, as it was for me kinda painful to fire with that wicked kick. So I headed out and rented a Rutger 22LR, and shot about 100 rounds through that. I loved it. I was kinda pissed though when it jammed on me twice, though when I was discussing this with the gentleman in charge of the range, he reassured me that it was merely a matter of the pistol being dirty.
This evening we attempted the impossible in bathing both of our cats, no, not at once though. They both fought hard, but eventually we hauled them out of the bathtub and wrapped them in towels. Poor Mal screeched so badly you'd have thought he was dying. But now they have forgiven us, and we are settling down to the 9th season of M*A*S*H:-D

All I want for Christmas

Having a little too much time on my hands this afternoon, I read back through some of my oldest mail in my mailbox. Of course the earliest ones all date to a few days after the accident (thanks to my slightly drugged self accidently deleting a few), and that got me thinking about what it was like a year ago. I thought I'd never heal, never walk normally again, and worst yet, never be able to smile fully again. Yet here I am, smiling, laughing, and enjoying life in the best ways possible. So with that in mind I would like to revisit an old post, somewhat revised here:

This is who have given me gifts all year long:
*My brother, just for being there;
*My sisters, just for being them; and above all else,
*My beloved Mummy, for ALWAYS being the best friend and Mom a girl could ask for.
*My husband, of course. Though we are just starting life together, I know I will never be bored.
*My In-Laws, for being the best in-laws one could ever hope for
*My sisters-in-law, who decided that Daniel and I HAD to be there for Christmas and sprang for flight tickets out there:-D
*The gentleman who, when discovering a mistake on my separation orders, went out of his way to fix them and fax them to me asap. (this was the difference in my getting my taxed money back or not)
*My Orthodontist, for fixing my teeth up just right
*Mike, for making my brand new teeth all pretty, and making them fast as he could
*The Prosthodontist (I so misspelled that I know) for putting them in.

The list isn't in order of importance, it just is. I realize that this is more of a thanksgiving list thingy, but people, I just want to remind you all of a few facts that you all probably know:

1. FAMILY. No matter what, you are stuck with them for life, may as well make the best of it. No, really, they are the most important thing in theworld. Always appreciate them, and always appreciate the fact that they are there, because as many families this season know too well, you never know when they could be taken from you.

2. The Troops overseas. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers. If you know someone, email them, write them, send your encouragement and support. Oh yeah, send boxes full of goodies too. (See sidebar for sites)

3. Your life. Always appreciate the finer things in life, whether it be a good bottle of wine, or simply the nature around you. Take a few moments to yourself, and just enjoy being who YOU are, not who everyone else wants you to be.

Narnia

For those of you who are Narnia fans, may I suggest the following article: http://www.slate.com/id/2131908/?nav=navoa
Very intelligently written, and I enjoyed it.

Winterhaven

Winterhaven is a small section of this fair city, that once a year combines forces to put on the most extravagantly beautiful display of Christmas lights ever seen. This year was no different:-D Daniel and I went on a Haywagon (Well a horse drawn trolley really) ride last night through the village. It's a good thing that the ride was nearly empty, as I spent 40 minutes oooing and ahhing and otherwise sounding like an overgrown child, particularily when I saw the display with Winnie the Pooh and Friends including TIGGER!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hehehe.
On a more interesting note, I recieved an email from a friend I had not thought of in sometime as he had left almost a year ago. Quite a pleasant surprise.

Weekend Recap

It was a full interesting weekend this past weekend. We kicked it off Friday night by taking in a show at Laff's comedy club featuring Tommy Chong. Duuuuuuuuuuuuude it was fuuuuuuuny! We were fortunate to have seats reasonably close to the stage, but getting out of the crowd afterwards was insane!
Saturday morning we had planned a trip to Mexico to visit Nogales as I had never been, so we headed down there. I have to say, while it was enjoyable, and I did get quite a bit of Christmas shopping done, I was rather dissapointed. However, I do realize that Nogales IS a border town and as such is very tourist oriented. Daniel and I would like to take a trip later down the Baja California peninsula for a camping trip.
We went to go see the Chronicles of Narnia, and I was very impressed with it. The movie was fantastic and very true to the book.
Sunday afternoon we went to a local gun show, where oddly enough, Daniel came away with nothing, and I was the one who left with a new gun. It's a Polish P-64 9x18, nice and compact for my small hands. Now I just have to have time to go to the range and shoot it:-D
Well, I really should get back to work now, although this day has been rather interesting, as I can't seem to do anything right, and I keep stumbling over my own feet ROFL:-D Is it 5 yet? LOL:-D

Our babies

Well, after a couple of days the cats have settled into their new home relatively well, and have relaxed enough to establish who their preferred person is. Mal is definatly a snuggle bug who loves the fact that I shower him with attention, while Trillian is more reserved and simply loves to look around and prefers Daniel's lap over mine. Of course, Mal is younger by a long shot, as Trillian is almost 6 years old, and Mal is only 7 months. They are both simply adorable though.
Mal in his favorite nap area.

Not sure how she gets up there, as she is a little chubs, but a rare photo of both of them together. They get along fabulously, no fighting, but they certainly have their areas they like.
Trillan, not so big on the posing thing, Mal, oh yeah, Attention hog LOL.

Baby Brat's Coming HOME!!!

Go read his blog for more details, over on the side bar in all caps. I am so happy. Baby Brat needs to write me though (hint hint;)

In other news, Here's a new place to send your hard earned moneys (ok it's been around awhile): Toys For Tots. It's a good thing. AND, if you go shop at KayBee Toys for toys for the program, they will give you 10 % off!!!! You can give a gift of joy AND save all at the same time. Doesn't get much better than that!

Kitchen Aid's, beds, and Kitties

Hehehehhehehehehehe. I am in an extraordinarily good mood today. Grandma sent me a check for me to go out and follow in the family tradition of owning a Kitchen Aid:-D She's the best!
And Sunday we had a REAL bed delivered, a wonderfully comfortable queen. Since we no longer used the air mattress, Daniel decided we could now have a cat. So off we went to the shelter that night to look at the kitties, where we found 2 very beautiful kitties we liked, but since they could not confirm that we were allowed to have cats in our apartment complex, we could not adopt that night. So yesterday, I called up the complex, and had them verify, and we went again last night, only to discover one of the cats adopted. BUT, I found the most lovely kitty with wicked blue eyes, and white fur with black spots, and also a fat little tabby female I had to have. The person working was very nice and gave us both 2 for 1, so I got my 2 kitties:-D We promptly named the female Trillian and the male Mala Kavulla. Trillian is at home settling in right now, and we will pick Mal up later to settle him in. At the shelter they were glad that the two of them went home together, apparently they had been kept together for awhile and got along well.
Last week was my first full week at my new job, and I still like it. Of course there are plenty of times when I get very bored, but it is still interesting enough to find something to learn or do to keep me occupied.

The weekend in pictures (with some words)

Thanksgiving Photos

Boy the table look REALLy small then.


Yes, I really did keep the kitchen that clean while cooking Thanksgiving dinner;-) My husband thinks I suffer from over obsessiveness.


My perfectly cooked turkey (I overcooked the pumpkin pies though ROFL. Stuck them in the oven shortly before eating, and then forgot they were there, for 2 hours!!!!!!!!!! They came out edible though;-D )

The long weekend was for the most part uneventful.
Friday morning, I was in NO mood to be awake at 5 in the morning for the "great" sales. I preferred to avoid the madness and mayhem and enjoy my very warm bed, which I did, alone. Daniel had a momentary lapse in sanity and decided to go to Best Buy, where he discovered just about everything gone. He returned home bearing breakfast from the whataburger, which I attempted to eat before my head hit the table. I went back to sleep, sleeping in until later, and then I decided that we should venture out and see what was about. The mall was still insanely packed, so we left there shortly and headed off to Target, where I picked up a few more tops for work. Later that evening, Daniel and I joined a friend of his from work, and his wife and went to an after Thansgiving party. As I knew NO ONE, I held back a bit, but soon was enjoying myself hanging around with his buddy's wife. After leaving we returned to Best Buy, where we discovered a very good deal on a microwave, making me very happy. I now am only missing but one item to make my kitchen complete: A Kitchen Aid!!!!! I have a slight obsession with these machines, but come now, they can do EVERYTHING, but cook the food, with the right attachments of course. Mummy had one growing up, and I got very accustomed to it.
Saturday was pretty lazy, but Sunday we got the wild idea to take a trip to Tombstone for the afternoon. It was freezing there, with the wind, but it was also empty of too many tourists and whatnot, so we spent a peaceful afternoon taking in the sights and window shopping.
These last two days I have been settling into my job rather comfortably, and taking on as many tasks as I possibly can. One can only answer the phone so many times and not wish to tear ones hair out unless there is something to occupy the mind with as well.




This is one of the more famous graves in Boothill Cemetary, for obvious reasons.


This is my personal favorite:)



The most famous of the famous in Tombstone



The view was incredible, to say the least



One of the many gunfights, this one amongst the more amusing

Happy Thanksgiving

The Turkey is in the oven, we are getting ready to sit down and enjoy watching the OLD tv series War of the Worlds in our wonderful little apartment, and new jobs. What else could you ask for? Be Thankful this year. For all that has happened that is bad, find the good in your life and be thankful.

I start tomorrow!

Yay me, I have a job, I have meaning and purpose in my life:-D Ok, I work for a real estate company, starting out as a receptionist and moving on up further should I show true value. (yeah, like that's going to be that hard:-D Anyhooo, I am cooking up meatloaf and mashed taters for dinner tonight to celebrate:) Meatloaf was on the menu anyway, but whos to say it can't be special? Especially if a fabulous cook, such as myself, cooks it:-D
I know, I am a little cooky tonight hehehehehe

More Saturday adventures

So last night I made reservations at the Laff's Comedy Club, for dinner and a show, and Daniel and I went out there to enjoy. Oh lordy was it funny. At one point I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes:-D
Today we mostly hit sales up in the hill country, which for me, sucked! I am so out of shape it isn't funny. Not to mention that my knee kinda hates hills. But it was fun, although nothing of cosequence came of it.
After yardsaleing along(not sure that is a word lol), we went to go see Harry Potter 4!!!!! YAY!!!!!!!!!!! I love Harry Potter. The movie was great but I won't spoil it, just to say that the special effects are wicked and you NEED to go see it.
I failed to mention this, but the Sunday I spent with my sister in TN, we had gone to the mall and she had gotten me to get my ear pierced, up in the cartlidge area. Now I had always kinda wanted to do this, so what the hey, I could now, I am out. Unfortunatly I reacted to it and so had to yank it out a few days later. BUT tonight, hubby was having his done (again, same sort of situation) so once again, what the hey, why not. The guy assured me that it was all stainless steel, so no reaction this time. And since he used a needle, no trauma to the ear. So far, so good, I have a small hoop in my ear and Hubby another hehehehe. The couple that pierces together, stays together? hehehehe. His account is over at his blog, also has an interesting rundown of the last 2 months, so go read:-D Oh yeah, It's the very top link, Mace's madness.

And so we go on

I have my resume in with a temp agency here in Tucson, and have been going on interviews through them for a while. I discovered that this was a good way to go as the person assisting me is able to find only the best jobs and the ones most likely to hire me, although that has not happened just yet. The sting of rejection is starting to suck. I was offered one job, however chose not to take it as I did not think it a good fit for me personally. And so we go on.
However this morning was interesting, as one of the agency's clients had a sudden need for a receptionist, and as my person knew, I was around LOL. So she called me up and asked if I could do this for her. Right now, just about anything to get me out of this apartment is good. I rapidly prepared and drove north to the firm. I then spent the next 3 hours either answering phones, or twiddling my thumbs. I did have a chance to stuff a few envelopes though. It was an interesting place though, and the people who worked there very nice. The phone system fascinated me, as it was computer based. Very fun, and entertaining when more then one call came in one right after the other.
This evening, Daniel and I have reservations at the Laff's comedy club here in town. We discovered it last night while browsing the paper and decided to check it out. Neither one of us is very fond of clubs, with the loud music and crowded places, so a comedy club sounded perfect. We got to the bar attached to the place around 9:30 or so and the bartender greeted us. When he found out that we were new and had missed the show, he gave us a coupon for free admission, so I look forward to tonights hilarity. The bar itself was very nice, even after the show let out it had a very relaxed atmosphere, not very noisy at all. All in all a good place to sit down, grab a beer, and actually have a conversation.

photos

Daniel and I took a field trip up Sentinal Peak (I usually called it "A" mountain, in fact had forgotten its real name) last night to see the sights, and of course I had my camera with me.

The plaque reads:
" Below this 2900 - foot peak, the Santa Cruz valley was farmed by the Hohokam Indians as early as 800 AD. When the Spainards arrived in the 17th century, the Hohokam had vanished and settlements of Piman people dotted the valley. One called "Schuk-schon" meaning "At the foot of the Black mountain" was pronouned Tucson by the Spainards. The hill was a lookout for these early Indian and Spanish settlers who lived in fear of hostile raiders. The white washed stone "A" was constructed by University of Arizona students in 1915."

Adventures in.......................Yardsales!

We put probably 100+ miles on my car Saturday traveling throughout the city looking for people who no longer wanted some of their things. As we got a later start, we did strike out a good bit, but we did come away with a bread machine, so my dreams are fulfilled. No, seriously here, I have been dying for a bread machine since I don't know when. I LOVE fresh bread. We also found a beautiful refinished drop leaf dresser for a very reasonable price. Getting that, into my tiny car was FUNNY! We ended up securing it in the trunk, with multiple ropes crisscrossing it, and then driving VERY slowly home, hoping it wouldn't fall out.
Later that day we went for an adventure in the Foothills trying to find a few more yard sales we had seen signs for. In one case, we went looking for a moving sale, only to end up coming back to the same place three times, and still not finding it.
Did you know trying to find a bean bag chair is nigh to impossible. Most major stores did have them for back to school, but now no longer! We did finally find some disc chairs at Target, so we do have some place to sit and use our TV trays for dinner.
Can you tell we need furniture still?

I love my little city

Settling into the apartment is fun, although I really need a job. I could never be a stay at home wife ROFL. Not enough mind stimulation. I spent this afternoon refinishing a little patio set I purchased today. It was originally white and somewhat rusted, so I sanded it, and primed it, and now it is a beautiful hunter green. And so are my hands, my feet, and areas in my hair ROFL!!!!!!!!! I can't do much without making a mess of myself.
We went grocery shopping yesterday at the local Fry's and lord a mercy! We left with a car load, but now we don't have to go for a few weeks. It is starting to feel more like home, and I love the fact that I can read through my cookbooks, and when I see a recipe I like, not have to automatically decide whether or not I can make it in the microwave. I can make anything I want and can make now! I LOVE cooking.
Right now I am sitting here at Bookmans on Grant and Campbell. I remember this place from when I was younger, cause I love to read and cheap books are the best!

Driving

I NEVER want to drive that far again!!!!!!!!!!!! I left NC on Sunday, spent 5 hours in Chattanooga with my sister, and then made it as far as Tallulah, MS before having to stop for the night. Then on Monday, I drove straight through the day and all night and made it to Tucson around 0700 on Tuesday morning. I then had an interview at 4pm LOL. I was dragging by that night!!!!!!!!!! But all is going well, I love being back in Tucson. For as many horribly bad memories of this place that I have, the few good ones far outweigh them in my love of this city. It is gloriously beautiful.
for a good laugh, I got this from the person whom I am hoping to replace in her job (she is moving on). I really hope for this job, because it looks way cool!
You Know you have been in Iraq too Long "When "

When mortars land near your compound and you roll over in bed and think "still way off, I got another 5 minutes"

* When you start humming with the Arabic song playing on the radio on the shuttle bus

* Every woman that reports to your unit starts looking attractive

* Every guy that reports to your unit starts looking attractive

* You walk an extra 6 blocks to eat at the KBR (contractor run) dining facility to have the exact same food they are serving in your dining facility because you think it tastes better

* You actually volunteer for convoy security duty because you still haven't seen the country yet

* You start picturing your wife in traditional Arab dress

* The contractors have more fire power than the military combat units. (This is true)

* You take the time to add your lines to this list

* You've spent $200 dollars at Haji mart on DVDs buying Basic Instinct, 9 and ½ weeks, and Body of Evidence just for the sex scenes

* You drink the water from the tap because you want to drop 20 pounds in two weeks

* Driving around in SUVs with weapons pointed out the windows and forcing cars off the road seems very normal to you

* You can put your body armor and helmet on in the dark in under 5 seconds

* When the organization you work for has changed its name more than 3 times

* When you can actually talk to people in the United States on a cell phone, yet you can't get people on their cell phone a block away

* When you actually spend more time writing e-mail about the dog in the compound versus how to conduct the fight in Najaf

* Your idea of a fun Thursday night is to go to the Palace pool to watch the State Department folks get drunk, naked and try to pick each other up

* When you actually get excited to get a package that contains 3 pair of socks, 12 bars of soap and a Victoria Secret Catalog

* When you start to enjoy the rocking of the trailer every time the MEDEVAC choppers fly over

* You memorized every episode from the 4th Season of Sex in the City

* You enjoy the audience commentary while watching a movie bought at Haji mart

* You see celebratory fire going over the compound at night and think, "wow the colors are so pretty" and want to fire back

* Your thinking of buying real estate in the green zone

* Your idea of sex is 20 minutes of Instant Messaging with your wife on the computer, OK, 10 minutes, who are you kidding?

* You wake up and think Baghdad, I am still in friggin Baghdad

* You make the new guy show you his count down timer just to make you feel better about your time you have left in country

* You're in the Army and you start saying Ooorah

* You're in the Marines and you start saying Hooah

* You're in the Navy and you realize you are in the middle of the desert, the exact opposite of being in the middle of the ocean, where one might normally find the Navy.

* You're in the Air Force, and you're on the plane home because an Air Force tour is too short to have been a long Iraq tour. Ignore this list, zoomie, you won't get it.

* You only notice the stench of Haji funk when its not there

* You plan on removing all trees and grass in your yard when you get home so it will look more natural

* You forget there are other colors than brown that can be found in places other than power point slides

* The temp drops down to 102 degrees and you shiver while reaching for your Gortex jacket

* You have noticed a change of season, from long, hot and dry to short, cold and wet.

* When you call home and your kids ask "Who is this?"

* You call home and your wife says hello Bill (your name is Sam)

* When you go on R&R, you duct tape your child to the roof of your car, hand him a pellet rifle, and assign him a sector of fire for the ride to "The Olive Garden."

* When you can comfortably shave and brush your teeth using bottled water, but don't mind showering in the "non-potable" local water.

* While on R&R, you look out the window and find Nature, which leads you to wonder who stole your sandbags.

* When some of the contractors wear their DCUs (Desert pattern camouflage uniform) more properly than some of your soldiers.

* When 12 hours is a short work day

* When, During the BUA, "DIV asked MNSTC-I for the FRAGO that MNC-I was supposed to publish, but couldn't because MNF-I hadn't weighed in, since they were too inundated with MOD and MOI war-gaming the JCCs
within the ISF to square us away!" is a valid comment and generates no questions.

* When you start using words like G'day mate, Cheers, and Bloody hell as part of your normal vocabulary

* When you have your opinions printed in the STARS and STRIPES more than 3 times

* When the palace catches fire and instead of helping to put it out you grab a bag of marshmallows and start roasting

* When you step into any office and there are 6 colonels, 12 lieutenant colonels, 15 majors, and 8 captains supervising the work of 1 sergeant

* When you end every phone conversation with "Out"

* When you're ordered to get an air mission together on short notice because it's a "Hot priority" only to have the Major call back once he is in the air to ask "Does anyone know where I am going?"

* When the weapon buyback program has become so successful that you have issued the same AK-47 to the Iraqi army 3 times

* When you can actually tell the difference between the sound of an exploding car and an exploding mortar

* When on R & R you tell your wife that your weapon status is Red and your looking for the clearing barrel

* When on R&R you go to Church and wonder why no one is wearing body armor or carrying an automatic weapon to the service

* You see an indirect fire attack take out a generator and get angry at the enemy for not hitting the one that powers your computer

* You see an indirect fire attack take out an air conditioner and your vigor to fight is renewed

* You yell at the FNG for shouting incoming when the rounds don't impact close enough to hit your tent with dirt

* You know that you need to run inside immediately after any win of an Iraqi sports team to keep from being hit by celebratory fire

* You decide for that for poops and grins - lets take a run around Lost Lake at Camp Victory to see if we can get shot at by the sniper

* You never worry about oversleeping because if the morning call to prayers doesn't wake you, the daily 0430 mortar attack will (most mornings)

* The highlight of your shopping experience at the PX is to see that they got in a new shipment of Schick Tracer razor blades

* When you send out your laundry and your whites become grayer, your blacks become grayer and your DCU's become grayer - makes it easier to sort loads...

* You get offended by people wearing clean, pressed DCU's

* You decide that it is a better course of action to pull your blankets over your head than put on your body armor during a mortar attack - the woobee will save you and at least you are comfortable

* You make a contest out of seeing who can wear their uniform for more days before becoming entirely disgusted with themselves

* You wonder if the fish served at dinner really was carp caught out of the Tigris or Camp Victory's lake

* You find it completely acceptable to pick your nose while talking to a complete stranger or member of the opposite sex

* A rocket or a mortar really isn't a big deal until the crater it leaves is big enough to trip over in the dark on the way to the latrine

* You go to a social gathering and intermittent gun fire or explosions don't even cause a pause in the conversation

Go Army

So, new things to go see, and to give up a bit of your hard earned money in support of the troops. Come on now, you know you want to.

In other news, I am in NC currently spending the day with my family before taking off tomorrow to head to TN, and then on to AZ. I do not look forward to the drive! Something about napping at rest stops is unnerving, not to mention that I literally have no room in my car. I PACKED that thing out this last week. I have just enough space in the rear view mirror to see out, and that is about it.
I did have one rather BAD day yesterday, I stayed over at my best friends place, as we went out Wednesday night to eat, and I ended up a little over the top tipsy (Jager, tequila, and later vodka. Thank goodness for the good sense to drink a lot of water)
Anyways, her daughter and cousin managed to get a hold of my bag, and my meds. Her sister and I were in the next room, and when it went dead quiet, we knew someting was up, we just weren't prepared to discover 2 3 y/o's chowing down on my Ambien and Zoloft!!!!!!!!! So I called 911, and we spent the afternoon at the emergency room. I don't think the kids will be messing around with any bottles any time soon. Oh and if you are wondering, no, the child saftey caps weren't on because it makes it very hard for me to open. Yes, I feel rather badly and guilty right now. But the kids are fine, and were acting normally (that is to say tearing around the hospital) by that evening.

If things go any more strange..................

My car got TOWED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Last thursday I went to the registration office and tried to get my car registration renewed. They wouldn't do it, as my insurance has already been switched over. They told me to wait until I got to my final destination and register it there. I thought no problem until coming onto post last night after a couple of errands and they pulled me over for an inspection (routine). What was not so cool was when they told me to wait in the parking lot for a few minutes, and then 30 minutes later a tow truck pulls up, they ticketed me, and my car was towed. So now I am out quite a bit of money needed to go cross country, and I STILL don't have my car as I can't pay for it just yet, so it is still in storage off post where the guy towed it. I was lucky in that one of my friend allowed me to borrow his truck so I was able to go to church this morning. Still I am a bit moody cause I DON'T like being without my car.

Goodies

I got my birthday present in the mail today, a new XM Roady 2:-D Now addicted! I love the fact that I can hear songs that I don't hear on the radio!
I am sitting here, on a Friday night, watching That 70's show:-D major weakness in me.
I am so close to being gone it is rather unnerving. I have no idea what I am going to do with myself when I don't have to be up at 6 every morning to go stand in the freezing cold. This weekend I am packing my car, and then Tuesday the movers come to pick up the rest of my stuff.

I forgot, sorta

It's the day of the year, and the year in which I can now rent a car, and not pay extra! hehehe. I seriously haven't thought about it though, not that big. But my Grandma wrote, my in-laws called, my best friend, and of course Hubby.
I did treat myself though, I slept in until 11 after returning from morning accountability formation.

Before, During, and After

This is me, about a few months before deploying.


This is me 4 days after being blown:-D

And during the fixing process.........



And this is me now. Damn I look good don't I:-D
Alright, enough with the vanity, I just thought it would be fun to show the progression. And yes, I went and dyed my normally blonde hair red. I like it:-D

And just for good measure, a shot of my normally camera shy brother, hamming it up just for me.

misc.

Ok men, here's a clue: you want to hit on a girl, check her finger! hehehe.
In other news, it's sweater weather here, and I am freezing my little tushie. Lounging here watching CBS, I am bundled in a sweater, thick socks, and drinking a frozen margarita. ROFL :-D
Margaritas are good.
I went to the hair salon today to have a haircut, and do something totally different. I didn't cut it all off, and it is still long, but it is wicked cute:-D I LOVE it.
about one more week before I take off across this great wide country towards Tucson. I dislike long drives, particularily done alone. But LOT'S of music will keep me company.
My thoughts want to ramble tonight, making no sense at all.

embarrassing moments

Reading a couple of favorite blogs today got me to thinking about these. To be honest, most of mine involved men. What is it about them that causes us women to act like fools? To be sure, I think I have grown out of that stage. However, I do recall one really funny incident, after sneaking home one morning at 9, and being greeted at the door by my mother AND grandmother. Of course I had my little excuse all ready, but my grandmother, the wonderful wise woman that she is, just said "come on now Lizzie, we were your age too once" Yup, that was a little face reddening.
What was your most embarrasing incident. Email it to me at sgtlizzie@gmail.com , and I will put together one great blog of all the best:-D

Accomplishments

I actually got quite a bit done these last two days:-D My car is gleaming, my tires blacker than black, my dashboard and vinyl protected. My room is clean, my laundry done, and I have even weeded out my closet of all clothes I do not need currently and packed them away.
Tomorrow I need to go find boxes to start packing the thousands of books I have aquired over the years (ok thousands may be a slight exageration, but boy do I wish). Don't you just hate packing and moving? I don't mind leaving Fort Gordon so much as I mind all of the work I am going to have to put in. I have gotten to be such a lazy little girl he he he he he. I also do NOT look forward to the almost 2000 mile drive across the country. Do you know that it is impossible to find a hotel ANYWHERE along I20, I55, I12, AND I10? Not really a surprise though, I have to admit. I am thinking of just driving straight through to Texas, where I can stay overnight, and then doing it all over again to Tucson. Ah I can't wait to see the beautiful Mount Lemmon again. I have many fond memories of camping in up on the Mount. Mummy was definatly a brave one to take the 6 and then later 7 up there with all of the dangers. She always told me that she was afraid to take us to see the Grand Canyon because of she dreaded seeing one of us fly over the edge. Don't blame her, it is a wonder none of us ever got severely injured on our outings as adventurous as we kids were. hehehe. Well, save for the time my little brother bent over and accidently backed into a cactus. Oh that was a funny funny time. And of course there was the time camping under the stars, and I had a skunk walk right past my head in the dark and go straight to where our food was. Oh we were so afraid of having to take tomato baths when we got home. Actually forget the tomato baths, the drive home would have been hellacious ROFL. It was a long drive from the top of Mount Lemmon to the base, where we lived.

Cold?

What the hey? I got up this morning, showered, and dressed in a sleeveless shirt and shorts. After all, that is what I have been wearing these last two weeks. I walked outside to go run my errands, and immediatly wanted to run back inside and change. It was COLD! The really sad part, it was probably in the mid 70's. Gotten to used to the tropical Miami heat I guess.
I spent the majority of yesterday running about from one place to the next trying to get things set for me to start the preparations to leave this place. I won't miss Gordon, but there are some people I will miss, I have to admit. Unfortunatly I got pretty much nothing done. Hopefully I get more accomplished today wih cleaning my room, car, and doing my laundry.

Back in Augusta

Ah, yesterday was the last time I burned the roads between here in Miami. My next long drive will be next month to Tucson:) I have a lot to do today, picking up my orders, making appointments, fun fun.
Soon I will spill all the details (ok NOT all the details) but for now, I leave you with a picture.
This was taken shortly after the ceremony and is my favorite picture.

News

On October 5, 2005, Daniel M. and Elizabeth L. were joined in marriage. The event took place in Fort Lauderdale, FL and the couple will honeymoon in Miami, FL. They plan on residing in Tucson, AZ.

Testing

For some reason no one can get to my page today. Hmm
Get the chance, go see Serenity. It is a GREAT Movie, especially if you are a fan of Joss Whedon.

One day left and Corn on the Cob

Yes, I have an obsession with corn on the cob. I don't kinow what it is, but I love it. Ever since I was a little girl and Grandma taught us how to eat it in neat tidy rows, it has always been my vegatable of choice. But for obvious reasons I couldn't eat it these last few months. So tonight my very darling fiance decided to take me out to eat at Chilis, just so I could have my corn on the cob. YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY. Yeah I'm weird. So what, you don't have to live with me hehehehe.
I leave tomorrow after work for Miami for what will be the last time tomorrow, as when I return he will be taking off for Texas ahead of me to set up a place there. So yes, that means I will be out of the loop for awhile, but I shall return.

Interesting conversations

I am sitting here on duty today, bored off my arse.
I was having an interesting conversation with someone, concerning the pacisfism that seems to have spread across the United States. I had to point out to him that in the last century, we have had 7 major conflicts, and who knows how many other minor conflicts. It is understandable. We were also discussing the world we live in here in the military. In my point of view, we live in a gray world. Things aren't so black and white, in our world we walk a fine line between the two.

Just call me the goddess of Loooooooove

Over lunch today I decided to hook up my best friend with a new guy in our company, who is pretty cool to hang out with and nice. She thought he was hot, he thought she was cute, voila, a friendship made in heaven. Mind you, friendship always comes first.
In the world of stupid things NOT to do in front of your boss: I was getting ready to clean off the computer screen in my office, as dirty screens are a pet peeve of mine (anything dirty is actually) I had the paper towel ready in one hand, and the glass cleaner in the other. I then proceeded to press down hard on the button and got a face full of cleaner! Fortunatly I closed my eyes quick enough, but not my mouth (EW). As I sat there wiping my face off with the towel, I heard someone come in and stated that I would be right with them. As I finished wiping my face, I looked up to see my CPT looking down at me, asking if I needed step by step instructions for the bottle ROFL (maybe not in those words, but close) How embaressing!!!!!!!!!

Permanent Teeth

Well, after this afternoons appointment, I will be finished with all major dental work!!!!! WOOHOOO! Permanent teeth, and CORN ON THE COB at Chilis. Don't ask me why, but I have this thing for the chicken crispers there, and I haven't had corn on the cob in almost a year. ROFL:) I will have pictures, just as soon as SOMEONE (hint hint) sends it back to me.
In other news, the countdown has begun to the last day of work, next week, prior to me taking off on leave. Kinda wondering just how I am going to survive more then 2 days outside of my office :-D Something about being a workaholic, I don't know.
This Saturday is my final for History 101, but I have started the process for my GI bill to minimize the break in between classes.
Time for a random photo:

YES, my hair was red as hell. This was taken March 2001.


Edited note: It's almost 5 here, just got home from work. I spoke too soon with the permanent bridge thing. After 2 hours of being in the chair this afternoon, it was decided that the permanent bridge really didn't look so nice (it didn't), and so I am back again with a temporary smile (oddly enough looks WAY better then the permanent did), so corn on the cob will have to wait a wee bit longer. Ah well, I will survive without it as I have these last 10 months.
This afternoon, I managed to screw up my knee again, getting smoked with the company as they had screwed up this morning. Today's lesson: Minor things COUNT. We don't want to be sending you home in a body bag:-D

The Salsa

Last night a couple of friends and I decided to get all dressed up and go out to a couple of the snobbiest clubs here in Augusta. I got to wear my prettiest cocktail dress, and wear the spikiest heels I own and go flouncing around downtown with two good looking guys in suits. My whole purpose last night: to introduce these two guys to some good looking girls, as they are both new in town. Unfortunatlyw I failed in that mission, BUT, it was sals night out at one of the clubs, and that was just the best thing I have ever seen!!!!!!! I just sat in awe of the dancers on the floor, twirling moving, just fascinating! They also had a couple of performances from a dance studio in town and a belly dancer! I love to dance, though salsa was a bit out of my range. My friend and I went out there and just made fools of ourselves having a grand old time dancing around:-D I now have blisters and a sore knee to show, but I LOVED it!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shopping

I headed out to the mall today with a friend who needed to buy shoes, and while there, realized one very important thing: very shortly, I have to dress myself every day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!v EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK. For the last few years, my wardrobe consists of jeans, t-shirts, the occasional dressy dress, and the appropriate club attire for those nights that I need it. Now I need suits, skirts and other office appropriate wear. Now, for most women I can imagine this would bring on feelings of excitement "ooooo shopping" not me. I am thinking "oooo too much money, too much time" yeah not so much. just thoughts though. so far I have gotten a couple of replies to my resume submissions, though right now it isn't in the "oh damn I need a job now" category. I find it interesting to think about going to work every day, doing what I do now, outside the military in a whole new world. It's a big new world, and I have been spoiled the last 5 years.

babysitting duty

As my best friend is in the field today and tomorrow, I am babysitting her 2 y/o daughter. This is fun actually, but reminds me as to why I don't have children yet. Not ready right now, but later definitly.
It has been a very boring week actually, not much has happened. I really need to sit down and start my history paper ROFL:-D I have done the research, but now I just need to write it all down and sort it out.

fun filled days

Currently I am sitting here in the library in Fletcher, right down the street from Mummy's house. I have a 2 y/o in my lap, trying his best to distract me:-D He is such a doll.
Ok, big news. Thursday, after months of torture, I had my braces taken off:-D Yay!!!!!!! Of course this left me with a gaping hole in my mouth, but that was repaired with a 3 hour adventure in the chair Friday morning. They filed the teeth on either side down to little pegs, and then put in a temporary bridge, while the permanent one is being made. So now I look halfway normal again:-D (Not that I ever looked normal to start with;)
This weekend I am visiting Mummy, so I will have pictures to show upon my return to GA.

19 hours and counting

In the last 19 + hours that I have been sitting here, I have done 4 loads of laundry (including my bedding, ALL of it), studied and then taken my history test for the week (94 out of 100), done a good majority of my research for my research paper (naval history in the civil war), and cleaned up the place. So all in all a very productive day for me personally. I still would much rather be sleeping right now. I will be doing a lot of that here in a few hours after leaving duty, but boy does it screw with one's schedule. And have you ever noticed just how incredibly boring middle of the night television is? Currently I have it tuned into CMT and videos, so not so bad, but still. Trying to stay awake here people, need something to stimulate the brain. Not too intellectual though, brain does NOT work that well after many hours of sleep deprivation.

Random Picture for the evening:
(FYI, NO I really wasn't fat, I was wearing about 5 layers of clothing as I was on a windjammer cruise in Maine in October 03. Ah one of the best times on vacation I ever had)

Tuesday has turned into a really bad Monday

Since waking up this morning, if it could go any weirder, it has. I show up for accountibility formation where I am informed that I am responsible for conducting training that morning. I would like to take this moment to point out that I am physically incapable of doing physical training. Ooook so after that little surprise was sprung on me, I dealt with it and carried on. Then upon leaving PT one of the sgt's from another company informed me that I was on duty that day! 24 hour duty no less. So here I sit, blah:) Plenty of time to study for my history test this week and write many inanities here for you to read:-D
Oh, and yes, like I said that is what you think it is, the man did get down on his knees and ask that all important question and natureally I said the only thing I could, yes. But sorry, no smaltzy romancy story here:-D That is for me to know and you to imagine:-D Ah life is good

Yes, that is what it looks like!

this is the actual ring.



this is a top view and a side view. Getting up close and personal was kinda hard. Mine was actually specially made so the profile wouldn't be so high off of my finger:-D

Off to Miami (Again)

Thank goodness for good gas mileage, cause otherwise I would NOT be making this trip. But to see my honey after not having seen him for 2 months, it's WORTH it:-D But I have strictly budgeted the gas so I will be fine:)
Really not much going on here, I have set my leave dates to use up the last of my leave, and so my last day of work will be on the 29th of September. Mind you, that is just leave, I will still have to come back and clear out of the Army. So this month will be a busy one for me, as I am training my replacements. (That's right, plural:-D You just can't replace me with one person.)

Katrina

Well, unless you have been living in a hole, you know what is going on. Here is one interesting way to donate, and also the Red Cross and other organizations. I have a few friends who's families have lost everything and are going to have to restart.


In other news, don't always trust your caller id. I got a phone call from my best friend, so when I answered my cell phone I answered "yes dear?" SGT L, this is SSG W. OOOOOOOOOPS! hehehe, I was quite embarressed by that. He had been borrowing her cell phone:)
Gas prices havel just hit insane here, up to $2.88 in places. Here on post they have left it down at $2.34 but they are out of Regular unleaded. SCARY. My drive to Miami tomorrow is going to be interesting to say the least.

Fine and dandy

I wrote what I wrote last night in a fit of rage and for those I worried, I am very sorry. I am fine now though, if not a little HOT and sweaty! I have spent much of the day in the motor pool, ICK. I am so looking forward to going home tonight and just soaking in a shower for a very long time.
In other news..................................well, actually there really isn't any. I go to work, I come home, I talk to darling dearest, I go to sleep, I do it all again the next day. Sounds kinda boring right? WRONG, wouldn't trade it for the world. Simple, uncomplicated, and relaxing:-D

Things in life never make sense

Really not much to this post, just that. You try so hard to make life easy for a person and they go and stab you in the back or worse. What gives?! I spend much of my life being a doormat, so I really have to blame this partly on me, but still, you give and you give of yourself until you have nothing left. I guess hurt and angry describe things right now, but what else can I do? Pick up, carry on, and make life a little easy for those you can and if they appreciate it, fine, if not, well, Such is life.

Long days

Yesterday I was out at the range all day, HOT as all get out. Thankfully my only job consisted of being on hand in case of injury, and as I am just that darned good, I did nothing but sit around all day long reading my history and writing my story:-D I was never so glad to get home though cause I was HOT, sweaty and stinky. That shower felt SOOOOO good.
Today was very very full, busy most of the morning catching up, then I got a call this afternoon from the medical board section, it came back from San Antonio. I won't go into specifics, but I am officially unfit for duty, and will be out within two-three months. A very intense feeling right now. Everything I am, my identity has been so wrapped around being in the Army, being SGT L. that I am uncertain now. I have been looking online, and have done my resume, but it is still a very unsettling thing to think about. Thankfully I have the support of my family and my wonderful sweetheart, I know that this will come out ok. I do enjoy challenges, so this is a new one to face. Life on the outside, here I come, better watch out!

Ok, I got an 11, beat me:-D

There are 25 questions about things we see every day
or have known about all our lives. How many can you
get right? These little simple questions are harder
than you think It just shows how little we pay
attention to the commonplace things of life.

RULES: Put your thinking caps on. No cheating! No
looking around! No getting out of your chair! No using anything on or in your desk or computer!

Can you beat 20?? (The average is 7) Write down your
answers and check answers (on the bottom) AFTER
completing all the questions. REMEMBER-NO CHEATING!!!

It doesn't matter if you cheat, actually, because if

you have to cheat, then you don't know the answer, thus,you've already missed the question. BE HONEST!!! That means no looking at your phone or anything on your desk...

Then, before you pass this on to your friends, change
the number on the subject line to show how many you
got correct. Forward to your friends and also back to the one who sent it to you.


LET'S JUST SEE HOW OBSERVANT YOU REALLY ARE. - If
not, just have fun!

Here we go!


1. On a standard traffic light,is the green on the
top or bottom?

2. How many states are there in the USA? (Don't
laugh, some people don't know.)

3. In which hand is the Statue of Liberty's torch?

4. What six colors are on the classic Campbell's soup
label?

5. What two numbers on the telephone dial don't have
letters by them?

6. When you walk does your left arm swing with your
right or left leg? (Don't you dare get up to see!)

7. How many matches are in a standard pack?

8. On the United States flag is the top stripe red or
white?

9. What is the lowest number on the FM dial? (Don't
look at that dial!)

10. Which way does water go down the drain, counter or
clockwise? (Get out of the bathroom!)

11. Which way does a "no smoking" sign's slash run?

12. How many channels on a VHF TV dial?

13. On which side of a women's blouse are the buttons?

14. Which way do fans rotate?
15 Ho w many sides does a stop sign have?

16. Do books have even-numbered pages on the right
or left side?

17 How many lug nuts are on a standard car wheel?

18. How many sides are there on a standard pencil?

19. Sleepy, Happy, Sneezy, Grumpy, Dopey, Doc. Who's
missing?

20. How many hot dog buns are in a standard package?

21. On which playing card is the card maker's
trademark?

22. On which side of a Venetian blind is the cord
that adjusts the opening between the slats?

23. There are 12 buttons on a touch tone phone. What
2 symbols bear no digits?

24. How many curves are there in the standard paper
clip?

25. Does a merry-go-round turn counter or clockwise?









Keep Going for the answers










ANSWERS
1. Bottom
2. 50
3. Right
4. Blue, red, white, yellow, black & gold
5. 1, 0
6. Right
7. 20
8. Red
9. 87.7
10. Clockwise (north of the equator)
11. From lower right to upper left
12. 12 (there is no #1)
13. Left
14. Clockwise as you look at it from the front.
15. 8
16. Left
17. 5
18. 6
19. Bashful
20. 8
21. Ace of spades
22. Left
23. * and #
24. 3
25. Counter

is that camera STILL pointed at me.

My two year old brother is actually a bit camera shy around me, maybe because he is one of my favorite subjects LOL. But he is such a cutie I can't help it:-D

Picture post cause I am too lazy to write tonight.

Washing sticky face:-D

It is a lazy Saturday evening at home for me. I spent the day cleaning and now I am sitting back, relaxing, and talking to the same person I talk to everynight:-D

This is what happens when you put four unruly teenagers together:-D










"Lizzie, look at my tonsils!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Looooooooooooooooong weeks

I am so looking forward to this weekend. We have had an exercise ongoing, and while I am not a direct part, it has kept me very busy. 7 new guys in this week, one person to help them, and I am up and down the stairs constantly. Not so good for pain, but I deal:-D

I had a most intersting conversation with my Grandmother tongiht about tolerance of others. In her words, The thing she is most intolerant of, is intolerance., and I agree with her completely. God says to love all, and his answer for all is love. But intolerance completely violates that in my opinion. We should resepct others, regardless of their beliefs and their ways. I am not saying you can not discuss with others, what you believe, BUT don't be disrespectful. That is not showing love for your fellow man. Anyway enough of that soapbox.

Next week is the range, then shortly therafter I get to see my dearest, hopefully. I need a miracle, but don't we all:-D

I don't like Mondays

My soldiers are going to be the death of me I swear. Anyone who knows me well, knows that my first priority in anything is always going to be them. I piss people off frequently for working way too hard for others and ignoring myself. Anyway, majority of my company is in the field this week, so I am left at the office pretty much alone, and we just have 4 new guys show up on my doorstep with only one other person to help take care of them, and he just got here last week himself! So this morning has been entertaining trying to make sure that they get where the need to go, and are taken care of, as we also have 2 married guys who need to get places to live. Hotel living is just not fun. Being new they have tons of questions of course, and I am more than happy to answer them, but lordy, I have questions coming at me from all different angles ROFL:-D
I didn't actually go camping last Saturday, no one else apparently planned on it, so I loaded my stuff up after being at the company picnic an appropriate amount of time and headed home to talk to my sweetheart. I'd rather talk to him than be bored any day. I was kinda dissapointed I didn't get to go camping though, as I really do enjoy "roughing" it:-D

Concerts

Montgomery Gentry is in concert tonight, less then half a mile from my room. I love their music! Why am I not there you ask? Something about extremely LOUD noise, and LOTS of people:) I can hear it from here though.
Seen on a big truck: Hunting is like Sex: You need the right equipment, size, and talent. Oooooooooooooooook:-D
Tonight is movie night: National Treasure, Romancing the Stone, and Monk, season 2, volumes 1+2. Got my cobbler, check, ice cream, check, remotes, CHECK! See ya later.

WOWSERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ladies and gentleman, My little corner of the blogoshpere has recieved Over 50,000 visitors as of yesterday, over half of them visiting yesterday! Thank YOU for the continued support of myself and all troops out there, and for all those who like to spread negativity, please remember that we stand in front of you, so that you may continue to have the right to spread your negativity and your beliefs. As for me, I will continue to soldier on until the day I leave this great Army. HOOOOAH! Nuff said.
In other news, I went out last night for the first time in ages, and as it was 80's night dressed appropriatly:


The cigarette is a prop!
Today we have a company picnic out by the lake and those of us who so choose plan on staying the night. I am dragging my (army issue) Pup tent, air mattress (not THAT hardcore), and my sleeping bag, and I plan on having a blast.
Someone made the request (Street) yesterday for me to relate a REALLY bad story about myself that occured about 4 years ago while I was on an exercise in Camp Casey, Korea. So it goes something along these lines: We had been up in Camp Casey for an exercise, out of Camp Humphreys, so all of us females were staying in one tent together. There was a couple of other girls from another unit, and one of them had her tongue pierced. I was very fascinated by this, and asked her about it. She told me that she could actually do it, having done it before, so long as she was able to get the necessary equipment. Me being the impetuous 21 y/o I was at the time, decided what the hell, why not? A few days later, we had everything together, needle soaking in listerine, and me with a paper towel under my tongue. "This won't really hurt" she said as she stuck the needle through and I proceeded to wince in dire pain while giving her the look of "you will die evil being". I was good and done and I had a metal post running through the rear of my tongue. Of course, just about everyone in the unit found out in rapid time, and I was subject to a bit of ribbing and warnings (this is not allowed in the Army after all). A couple of days passed by, I didn't eat much and had exceedingly fresh breath from all of the listerine I was swishing about. I was on night shift and about the second night, my tongue began to swell to the point where the bottom ball dissapeared INTO the tongue. BAD THINGS! So I had to fess up to my Master sergeant, as I needed to go to the hospital soon. He, after a bit of laughter, loaded me up and off we went to the emergency room where we spent two hours. The first hour the docs were trying to contain their laughter and figure out just what to do with me. They finally ended up shooting my mouth with lidocaine, relaxing me with Valium, and then prying this post out. Almost immediatly my tongue began to ease. They then gave me Tylenol with codiene and sent me packing. By the time we returned, I was high as a kite and there were thankfully only a few hours before time to go home. I spent the rest of the night blissfully high, and as we left, the girls tried very hard to get me to bed. ("see the pretty purple elephants............") I don't remember exactly when it was, but my BC (Battalion Commander) came up to me, and mentioned that he had heard about the little incident. His only remark was "did you learn your lesson?" YES SIR!!!! and I was left alone, subject only to the endless torment from my peers. (No, I didn't learn my lesson I did it again 8 months later, this time by a professional. It ended up getting pulled about a month later under threat of punishment. NO we will NOT being doing this again (maybe) :-)

On Being compared to Ernie Pyle

The New Ernie Pyles I was quite pleased with this comparison, as I have read every Ernie Pyle book out there and loved them. I do have to make one correction here (Sorry Mr. Finer:) I was born in Haverhill, Massachussetts, but was raised as an AF brat, so my roots run where I plant them:-D But it is a wicked cool article, and has caused some amusement around my company this morning from those I have shown it to:-D
In other news, I am preparing to head out to the field next week for a company exercise. A chance to lay out the cot, roll out the sleeping bag, and play like I was camping LOL.
Actually, I am supposed to really go camping this weekend, though that may be postponed due to weather. My company is going to have a get together this weekend, and the original plan was to meet out at the park, cook out, throw a ball around so on and so forth, and then those who wished to were going to stay out there overnight. I was going to throw up my army issue pup tent and everything. I love camping, don't do it nearly often enough, but I do NOT go by myself. I am a little chicken when it comes to being out in the woods alone at night. Something about big bad scary animals. I am just hoping there aren't a lot of daddy long legs out there. We had that problem during PLDC a few years ago, and I woke up to find at least 10 of them crawling around my tent. NO I did not run outside screaming (as the boys apparently expected any female to do when encountering these creatures). I learned a long time ago that they can't hurt me. Now a black widow...........that's another story. Anyways, I am starting to ramble on and I really should be working.
PS was thinking about what I am going to retitle this blog when I leave the Army. The web address will remain the same, but I was thinking something along the lines of "this girls life after the army" Who knows and we shall see.