NEW YEAR'S ALMOST HERE

30DEC07. Sunday. The New Year is Fast Approaching. I can't believe it's almost 2008. Seems not too long ago we were adjusting to 2007....On a different note, still have a cold. And, it's dragging on. Saw the Doc today. He gave me some all-in-one Meds. Deconamine? First I've heard of them. Hopefully, they will work. Oh, on R&R I finally broke-down and figured how the Controllers work for the Playstation and X-Box. Finally....Look out Ryan, I'm getting good and gonna beat your but. Oh, the Boss wants me back North (for the winter) where it's colder. Oh, Boy. So, will travel within the next few weeks or so.....But, I'm not holding my breath. Doug

TEARS OF JOY

29DEC07. Saturday. Terri just sent a Montage of Clips taken from Christmas. The Montage was set to music and done right. Actually brought a tear to my eye. Thanks Terri. Have been pretty busy over the past couple of days. And the Cold I have seems to make me appreciate it just that much more. Although I still have a cold, I think I'm on the upswing. We'll see. Just back from the Range. Haven't fired my weapons in a while. Our Team had exclusive use which was nice. Only 3 outta the black out of 45 Shots...Not too bad for an old man. Fired the last few clips with my Night Optics. Still shootin' like a pro. Oh, and Congrads to Chris & Beth on the Engagement. Will Update when I can. Doug

Watch show: http://www.photoshow.net/watch/sW3ej2gA

ANOTHER DAY GONE BY

28DEC07. Friday. Happy Friday. Boy and I amd busy. Thats both good and bad. Good because it makes the time go by quickly. Bad because I'm still sick and whiney. Still, it another day outta the way. Still colder than *&#*(@( Here. Got the FartSack out and another couple of blankets. Just barely cuts it. Still, what are you gonna do? My buddy Jim invited me golfing tomorrow. Unfortunately, I had to decline due to a conflict in my schedule. Ha....Well, it's pretty much the same ole thing. Just another day gone by. Doug

BABY IT"S COLD

27DEC07. Thursday. Man, it's cold outside and I have a terrible cold. How quaint. It's down to the low teens outside. Might have to break-out the fart sack (sleeping bag) tonight. I feel crummy with the cold. And yes, I'm taking the vitamins......Called Terri and chatted about the gifts received and those returned. Ain't much going on. Hope all is well. All my best. Doug

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE

26DEC07. Wednesday. Well, happy day after. Went to the Chow Hall and enjoyed some dry turkey and HP Sauce (they ran out of gravy). This Christmas meal was hosted just after another rocket attack. What a mood setting evening. Still, got the guys together and watched "It's a Wonderful Life". We also exchanged gifts. It was certainly a nice touch...My buddy Jim sent me the following laugh line. It did put a smile on my face. Thought I'd share it with you. Doug

Are you a Democrat, Republican, or Southerner? H ere is a little test that will help you decide.

The answer can be found by posing the following question: You're walking down a deserted street with your wife and two small children. Suddenly, an Islamic terrorist with a huge knife comes around the corner, locks eyes with you, screams obscenities, praises Allah, raises the knife and charges at you.You are carrying a 40 cal Glock, and you are an expert shot. You have mere seconds before he reaches you and your family. What do you do?

Democrat's Answer: Well, that's not enough information to answer the question! Does the man look poor! Or oppressed? Have I ever done anything to him that would inspire him to attack? Could we run away? What does my wife think? What about the kids?What does the law say about this situation? Why am I carrying a loaded gun anyway, and what kind of message does this send to society and to my children? Does he definitely want to kill me, or would he be content just to wound me? Should I call 9-1-1? Why is this street so deserted? We need to raise taxes, have paint and weed day and make this a happier, healthier street that would discourage such behavior.

Republican's Answer:BANG!

Southerner's Answer:BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! Click..... (Sounds of reloading) BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!ClickDaughter: "Nice grouping, Daddy! Were those the Winchester Silver Tips or Hydra-shock hollow points?Son: Can I shoot the next one! Wife: You Ain't Taking That To The Taxidermist!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

25DEC07. Tuesday. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night. Well, the Holidays are upon us once again. I worked my arse off last night. Have a cold, and feel like crap. Merry Bloody Christmas. Still, we have a small tree set up at work. All the cards we have gotten are up on the wall. And, we are exchanging presents. So, life ain't all that bad. Do make a quick toast on my behalf. Please extend to the Ramsdell and Williams Family all the best a families can have. Prosperity, Health, and Love. Although I'm far away, I'm there in spirit. Doug

CHRISTMAS EVE TO REMBER

24DEC07. Monday. Well, it's Christmas Eve, the Packers lost to the Bears, and I'm in the middle of nowhere. Happy Christmas Eve to all my Friends and Family. I know for our family this Christmas will certainly be one to rember. Whereas I'd like to say I have a lot planned, I don't. I'll probably hit the Gym shortly, mid-rats for chow, work, work and work some more...Do know that I do wish we could be together over the holidays. Know that you will always be in my Heart. Wishing you the best this Season has to offer. Doug

BAH HUMBUG

23DEC07. Sunday. Bah Humbug. Well, the Brits have closed their Chow Hall to Americans on Christmas Day. Why? Because they will be serving beer and wine with their Meals. Bastards. Well, another typical day at the office. Not much going on this time of year. Still, we do keep busy. Our Team decided to exchange gifts for Christmas. I thought it was a pretty good idea. However, the selection here is kinda yukky. So, I see lots of DVDs being exchanged. Hope your Sunday is going well. Enjoy. Will update when I can. Doug

FINE SATURDAY

22DEC07 Saturday. It's a fine Saturday to be working. Just another working day til Monday. I am nursing a cold and sore throat Terri gave me. Got on the Phone and Chatted with a few members of the family. Talk about timing, my Dad had just turned into the driveway as I called. So, I was able to get two birds with one stone. Not much happening here. Guess the Bad Guys are watching the USO Tour as well. Hope all is well. Take Care for Now. Doug

USO TOUR

21DEC07. Friday. Well, my arse is kinda dragging. Got up early for the USO Show. Weather held out enough to watch. Gotta admit, it was pretty neat. Miss America opened the show, Lance Armstrong said a few words. They were quickly followed by Comedians Lewis Black and Robin Williams. Kid Rock came next and played a couple of songs. Lastly, some Irish tenor sang. The last bit was kinda weak. This has been the most fun I've had since I've been here. I've attached a couple of pics and flicks. Will update when I can. Doug

SANTA'S NEAR

20DEC07. Thursday. Well I guess the mail rooms are swampped. I had to weave through a pile of boxes enroute to work today. I'm simply amazed at the amount of packages (and Size) that have already arrived! It's almost silly. But, a testimony at getting the goods around the world in a timely manner. The weather is pretty ugly, so everyone is kinda laying low. The USO Tour is tomorrow. I know I'm looking forward to it. My luck, it will be cancelled due to weather. We'll see. Talked with my buddy jim last night. Guess he's now a member of the Big "V" Club. Good thing we were not able to chat prior to the procedure. I think I could have talked him out of it. Well, gotta get back to the grindstone. All my Love. Doug

SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO

17-18DEC07. Monday-Tuesday. been kinda hectic for the last couple of days. work has been busy and nonstop. at the moment it's raining outside. makes for good sleeping weather. if you can get it. couple of surprises to contend with. found out i will leave around july 2008, a few months later than originally thought. the upside, i don't have to look for a job in feb. also got an email from the navy advancement office. guess there's some errors with my application which "may" make me ineligible for the selection board. i've done my best a fixing the errors from afar. we'll see what happens. either way, believe this will make next year's application a little easier. take care for now. doug
ps the uso has some folks here in the 21st. robin williams, lewis black and some others. hopefully, we will be able to see the show.

DARK & GLOOMY

16DEC07. Sunday. Well, got up today and was welcomed by a Dark and Gloomy day. Weather is really nasty up north. Will probably spend some time here for a few days then transit south. Did however, get caught up on some much needed sleep. There isn't really much going on until I get back to my final destination. So, until then I'm kinda in limbo. With very little laundry to pick and choose from. Will certainly update when time presents itself. Doug

THE FUN"S ALL OVER

15DEC07. Saturday. Well, the fun is all over. Jumped onto a C17 ever so early this morning. Traveled to Kuwait (the wrong direction), then to our duty location. Spent a couple of hours in Kuwait loading some containers and a truck. After reaching cruising alititude, I quickly found a spot on the deck and slept for a couple of hours. So, the flight went by pretty quickly for me. Will try to arrange some further transportation to get downrange where I belong. Still, was kinda nice to say hi to some collegues and get caught-up a little. Also intercepted a Package from Day with Candy inside. Thanks Dad! I'll keep it sealed until I reach my final destination. Goodness knows the vultures here will devour the goodies before I get a chance to spread them around. The Navy Command in New Orleans want me to provide a write-up for a Newsletter. The subject centers on my fellow reservists working here....Great, another opportunity to Excel! Well, that's the latest. I'm just burning time for a few hours. Then, Rack Time. As always, will update when I can. take Care for now. Doug

LAZY DAY

14DEC07. Friday. What a Lazy Day. Was unable to sign-up for any events yesterday. Was hoping the Golf was offered. Unfortunately, it was not. So, I decided to not set my alarm and sleep-in a little. After waking I went to the BX and did some eyecandy shopping. Didn't really get anything except some cigars. Oh, did I say I awoke at 1:00PM! I think that's a personal best for sleeping....Went to bed at 11:00PM. I still can't believe I slept that late. Still, I guess I was a little dragging to say the least. Stopped by the pool for a little while. Read a little of my book, did some power-burning, and generally did nothing but waste the time away. Unfortunately, there were no events for tomorrow as well. Drat! Well, that was my day in Qatar. Hope all is well with you. Will update when I can. Take Care for now. Doug

DHOW CRUISE

13DEC07. Thursday. Well, just got back from another great day on R&R. We got up bright and early, blasted off downtown to the Doha Port. There, we boarded a Dhow and set sail. Okay, we cranked up the engine and puttered around the bay. Sadly, the day went by way too fast. Still, was able to doff the shirt and long pants and enjoy the sun. The wind made for some light chop today. Still however, it beats the hell outta work!! Whereas some folks went into the water for a dip, the wind made for a chilly return. The lunch was Kabobs (again). I believe I'm just about kabobed-out. Qatar isn't that big, and the city of Doha has some very distinctive landmarks. So, it was pretty easy to figure out where you were in relation to the trip yesterday. Doug

CULTURAL SMULTURAL

12DEC07. Wednesday. Signed up for the only venue open today. The Cultural Tour; now renamed to the City Tour. Visited two Malls the Central City Mall and the Velachio. It was a little taste of home....just with burkas. Also stopped by the "old" and "gold" Soukes (read markets) and did lunch at an Iranian Restaurant. The amazing part of the trip is to understand how many folks here are atually from Qatar. Not too many. The remainder (myslef included) are impoprted from other countries under contract. In just about every service capacity there is someone from another country running the place. Case in point. Out Tour Service is manned by a guy from Pakistan driving the Bus, a guy from Sri Lanka as the Tour Guide, and the Iranian guy running the restaurant. The folks at the Malls were from the Phillipines. What a cultural smorgesborg. Qatar is hoping to be the host of the 2016 Olympic Games, so a lot of construction is underway. And, I mean a lot. I've included a few pictures to share as the typical american tourist. Doug

INLAND SEA PICNIC

11DEC07. Tuesday. Well, got up bright and early for a 4-wheel Drive over the dunes and picnic. The ride was kinda fun. However, I don't know that I place a lot of trust in the drivers. Blindly crashing over the dunes. I know we passed at least 10 vehicles coming the other way. Still, it was fun. Stopped enroute to see some Camels. Simply Fascinating animals. Okay, they are pretty typical for beasts of burden - Smelly and Loud. After arrival at a desolated beach, we played some volleyball, ate, then vegged-out. There were about 12 folks total. Really nice layout for the Picnic area. Only thing missing was beer and girls. Oh, well. Tomorrow will be a City Tour. We will stop-by a "State-of-the-Art" Post Office. I can hardly wait....... Can you tell this was the only venue open? Still, will see the finer things Doha has to offer. Well, understand the Packers won again. Go Packers! Also understand Pace lost by one point (after 4 overtimes!). Both games sound exciting. Well, will update again when I can. State of the art Post Office...Who-Hoo.

QATAR HERE I AM

10DEC07. Monday. Well, I finally made it to Doha, Qatar. After a grueling 5hr flight, sitting on a canvas seat in the back of a C-130. My arse was numb....Think it still is. This adventure, after leaving a dreary, rainy night in country. God Bless the military. The Hurry-up and wait. Man, we had to report everywhere at least 3hrs in advance to check-in and....wait. Makes me miss First-class travel. Still, made it here safely. Open-bay living with about 100 military all on R&R. What Fun. Signed-up for the In-land Picnic tomorrow. Looking forward to both that as well as my 3-beers tonight. I believe I'm spoiled with this high-speed internet. I almost forgot how nice using the net could be. On a seperate note, got a handful of emails from the unit with Holiday wishes. That was kinda nice of them. Well, I'm actually running outta things to say. Did get in some Driving Practice...just in case. All my best. Will update when I can. Doug

R&R TRAVEL DELAYED

8DEC07. Saturday. So, arrived at the Passenger Terminal at 0400Z only to be told to return at 1330Z. Cruised back to the Hootch and Crashed. Waited around the Passenger Terminal until 1930Z. After finally loading, getting a R&R Brief, and all the other BS that goes along. The Flight was Cancelled due to Weather over Doha. So, we get to do it all over again tomorrow. On the flip-side, it's another day off from work!! I'm taking it all instride. Of course the folks I'm travelling with are a little miffed. Conversely, I anticipate something will go astray, and thus, am not led into a false sense of security. So, I'll try to catch a movie and sych-up with my fellow travellers again....at 0300z. Hope all is well. Will try to write once I get to Doha. All my best. Doug

THE FUN BEGINS......ALMOST

7DEC07. Friday. Well, tonight I'm off to bounce around this beautiful country just to start R&R. Of course I just can't jump on a plane here and start. Noooo. Gotta Go "Check-In", get manifested, weigh baggage, etc. Still, on the upside, it adds another day to travel on either side of the R&R. So, I'm not complaining. Will be departing in a few hours and wanted to get a blog entry out while I had the time. Still busy as usual. Understand the kids High School is doing well in Football. Apparently they only have a few games to go til finals. So, Kristen and Shannon are following the Team around to each game. Looks like they're off to Neice for this weekend's game. If they suceed, off to Miami (I think). GO PATRIOTS! Take Care for Now. Will take lots of pictures for the Yearbook. Doug

1 DAY TIL R&R

6DEC07. Thursday. Well, got another day here until I start the adventre of R&R. will be welcome change to not do anything responsible for a few days. My only hope is the 4hr trip will take only 4hrs or so; Not the 27hrs it took last time. still. can't wait to frolik in the pool and sip on my 3 beers. wheeee. will update when i can. douig

2 DAYS TIL R&R

5DEC07. Wednesday. only 2 days until i go on R&R. but who's counting.....it must be close to christmas, why? I got a box of christmas stuff from my dear sister. I almost can't wait to go on a mission with a red stocking hat...i think i almost overdosed on all the candy. thanks sis. also, thank trev for the letter. we are certainly busy and i'm a bit fatigued. so, i'll close for now and update when i can. take care doug

snow in the forcast

3DEC07. Monday. Another fine overcast navy day. It's snowing just to the north of us. Brrrr. My good friend tom emailed me. was good to hear from him. really not a lot going on today (at the moment). but rest assured, that can (and will) change. I'm so looking forward to R&R in Qatar. goodness knows, just to get away for a little while and do....nothing. I have a few folks leaving soon. so, well get together for pizza and coke. well, got to check a couple of job boards. take care. doug

NAVY BEAT THE HELL OUTTA ARMY

1DEC07. Saturday. I've been beaten up by all the army pukes here. But, who has the last laugh. The score was something like 27-3 . Navy slaughtered the Army Football Team. Still it provided some lighthearted banter. Almost every other AFTRS Commercial had army beat navy. Lot of money and time wasted. Oh, well. The count down til R&R has started. I can't wait....I know I'll be busy. Still, I had to plan this thing months in advance. And, I'm going damn it. Well, I miss you guys. All my best. Go Patriots! - High School Team in Milton Florida...Doug

INDUSTRIOUS LABOR

29-30NOV07. Thursday-Friday. unfortunately, i was unable to get to see the packer game. hopefully, they won. I attached this picture namely to those who are mechanically inclined. This is the welder that the locals use when putting up the fence. submerged under the water is a huge coil. wires are wrapped the bolts and fence. teh electrode is the only thing free...viola, a welder. of course, you don't want to touch the fence. by the way, the fence is long enough to surround a football field...too funny. Oh, and these guys are using metal ladders. a comedy of errors awaits. well, im doing well. managed to chat with the family last night. always puts a spring in my step. hope all is well with you. doug

BUTTON DOWN THE HATCHES

28NOV07. Wednesday. Got up today and expected to be met with a blast of fetid, steamy air. Only to be hit in the face with rain and cold. Guess winter weather is finally here in this region. So, it was acutally a welcomed change to keep the dust at bay. I know I'm not the only guy struggling to find the rain gear. Not too busy at the moment. But, it will get busy shortly. I'm using the time somewhat wisely to get some admin done (actually caught up). Well, got to work on my resume and network skills. Take Care for now. Doug

ROCKETS AND JOBS OH, MY!

27NOV07. Tuesday. Well, another day, another rocket attack. Pretty standard fare. These guys really don't hit much. Ohter than runway. Had some visitors in that i had to escort. all in all, it was a pretty easy day. Did get the "Official" word from my boss today. HCI offically closes it's doors on 30NOV07. I realize this isn't the best news, however, the boss offered to send my resume to some people in the pensacola/fort walton beach area. And, i will of course take him up on the offer. I guess in context, it's been a pretty unusual kinda day. Well, the all clear has been sounded....Doug

JOB HUNT FROM AFAR

26NOV07. Monday. Well, I'm really glad I brought my Laptop. This allows me the opportunity to go thru my contacts and network from here. At least, that's the thought. So, in between ducking bullets and bad guys, his affords me a side hobby. On the plus side, mailing from here is free. My sister highlighted the fact that I GOT SKILLS!!! Hmmm. Wonder what movie she got that from. On the upside, the expenses from here are minimal, the sightseeing is wonderful, and you get to meet neat and intersting people. At least that's what the brochere says. Well, not much new from here. Same ole' same ole. douyg

PACKERS WIN AGAIN!!!

23NOV07. Friday. well, the packers won again. was able to get away and watch the second half of the game. i was just happy to lay eyes on the game at all. handfull of people were crammed around the tv set. aftewhich i logged on to the computer and got an update from terri. guess she was still at her brothers house. got an email from jeff higgs. he's a grandfather again....congrads jeff. also my buddy jim made it back to colorado safely. sounds like he's adjusting well. on the civilian work front - i emailed a couple of folks from hci. i only to get a farewell messages from the out of office reply. sounds like the corporate offices are shutting down. still have not been able to contact my boss. but, it's not looking good....will update accordingly. doug

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

22NOV07. Thursday. Happy Thanksgiving to all. My best wishes to all. Take a moment and look around the table and be thankful they are with you. I want to express to my family and friends that I'm with you guys in spirit. Although we will be busy for the forseeable future, I'm hoping not to be.....Just so we can steal away and watch the Packer Game. Have a Drink on Me and a Toast for the Future. Will do my best to ensure me and my guys will return home safely. To the Ramsdell & Williams' Family - All my Best.... Doug

ALMOST THANKSGIVING

20-21NOV07. Tuesday-Wednesday. Don't have much time to write. So, I'll try to get as much as I can outta the way. The Stink here is always noticable. Thought I'd get used to it...Not. Understand the Packers won again. Good News. I also know I'll be busy through Thankgiving. Don't know well be able to see the game or not. \We'll see. Someone has already broken out the christmas lights....in an are fraught with Buddists, muslims, etc. Too funny. At least it's not walmart. Well, Ill update when i can. Doiujg

THE CRUD

19NOV07. Monday. Well, i think the packers won again. that's great.....wish i could have seen the game. saw some highlights today. looked like they pulled it off nicely. i woke yesterday after about 8hrs of sleep. found out we were not busy, then hit the rack again. slept for another 12hrs. wow. my body time clock is so messed up..... the crud is going around. ive been lucky so far... only got some drainage, which will crust-up shortly with the dust....ha, ha. my buddy jim made it safely to san diego. guess the navy has them waiting around for paperwork, etc. still, it was good to hear about his escapades. well, cant think of much more to say at the moment. terri I send you my love...doug

WAR IS HELL

71-18NOV07. Saturday-Sunday. first, this keyboard has been used and abused. so, not all the keys wor. ive been so busy that i have not been able get to a machine. everyone has been up for about a day and a half. so, everyone is irritable and pissed at each other. myself included. got a wonderful surprise from jeff higgs and company. thanks jeff!!! i thought he sent a bowling ball at first. the box contained some candies (3lbs worth), poptarts, cashews and socks. the candy is almost gone.....thanks for the consideration and thought jeff. pass along my thanks to your wife as well....cause i know it wasn't your idea... on a seperate note, let me know if the packers win. i know i'll be outta the loop fior a while. douig

HUMDRUM

15-16NOV07. Thursday-Friday. Wel, looks like we might be on the move again in the next few weeks. I just woke a little while ago after a long, extended period of darkness. Noticed that the Packers have Won over the Vickens. Great news. Guess Thanksgiving will provide some extra entertainment for the family. Understand the kids are actively engaged in all sorts of activities. Last weekend was Homecomming for the Girls. Gosh, I wish I could have seen them all dudded-up. Terri will provide some pics I understand. I'm really looking forward to some R&R. Although the temps are super-cold now. Only a couple hours away it's in the hi-90's. I'm slated to leave early Dec. Love to my Family and Friends. Will try to keep in touch. Take Care.
Doug

WHERE ARE WE?? DID PACKERS WIN

11-14NOV07. Sunday to Wednesday. Well, needeless to say, the last couple of days have come and gone. They were pretty much a blur. Been working my arse off. Long, long days. Was not able to get onto a computer until just today. Certainly staying very busy here. Good Friend left for the states the other day. He'll certainly be missed. See Ya Jim. God Speed. Got a Letter from Dr Dupree who teaches at UWF. Her class helped raise the monies for the Ronald McDonald House Van. In a nutshell, she was wishing me support. I certainly didn't expect that. Trying to also get caught up on the laundry. Goodness knows it does pile-up. Oh, still don't know if the Packers won or lost. Guess it will be a mystery for a couple of more days. Well, I certainly do miss you guys. Doug

BAZAAR

10NOV07. Saturday. Managed to get tot he Bazzar this morning. Lots of activity with all the new people around. unfortunately, there is not a lot to offer at hte bazaar that is unique. shopping for ryan is a challenge. don't get me wrong. I think he'd like a 7-foot sword, pistol or gun. I just don't see getting that stuff thru the mail. For the most part, i just wandered a little (kinda like the flea markets0. still, it was a change from the norm. aferwhich, i collapsed into the rack. today is promising to be a busy night. Will update accordingly. doug

DROPPING THE BOMB

9NOV07. Friday. Well, it's Friday late night. Almost Saturday morning. And, we're just midway through a long day. er., night. The title of this wonderful post is "Dropping the Bomb" Why you ask? Well, it seems my company HCI Technologies has been sold to TDW & Associates http://twd.com/. Whereas I've known about this for a week or so, I've been unable to speak with my Boss directly. So, the worst case is I'll start looking for a new job upon my return. The best case is I'll be working for a new company. Either way, there is really not much I can do from here. Just wanted to let you guys know the latest. Doug

BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS

9NOV07. Friday. Well, only two more days til the weekend. The days are long and tiring. I just woke after a long, long, period of being very busy at work. Nevertheless, I've just w0rked out, getting ready for breakfast, and fight the war. Okay, maybe not fight the war...how bout' go to work.....that sounds more realistic. Office Politics, Decisions which leave you dumfounded, you know - same old stuff, different day. Not much to relay other than I'm alive and well. Dry, cold weather is playing havoc on my soft, dove-like skin. Have a Great Navy Day. Will update when I can. Doug

B.O., Laundry and TB

7NOV07. Wednesday. So, I'm sitting here at the internet Kiosk. The French Guy next to be is coughing his brains-out (probably has TB). The guy to my left has B.O. in the worst way. However, this serves to simply remind me that the omni-present stink is not too bad today. Just back from the gym and doing some laundry to blow some time. I'll be extremely busy for the next couple of days. So, if I am unable to hit the Blog you know why. Oh, I know I will be unable to use a phone while I'm out here. So, please accept my apologies up front.

THE STINK IS FETID

6NOV07. Tuesday. Well, we're finally settled-in....For the most part. The Stink of the Open Sewer is ominpresent. Still, the night life is a little bit better than other plaecs of the desert. Oh, I'm finally on a US Keyboard. And, my typing is almost legible. Got to see some of the wonderful countryside today...Okay, let me rephrase that. I was sent to verify how absolutely deplorable the living conditions are. Still playing with the mp3 player and loving it. Thanks Baby. I see we finally got the remaining $800 from back in August. God Bless the Navy!!! Well, it's 4:30AM Local. Will probably get some breakfast, watch a flick, then crash. Wake at 4:00PM Local and do it all over again. Check out that Opium. I had over $10 Million worth the other day....Makes the mind wander. Will update when I can. Love Doug

GANG'S ALL HERE

6NOV07. Tuesday. The rest of my Team finally linked up with us. Got everybody situated and ready to roll. At the moment, I'm using a British \keyboard. Got some keys in strange places. So, if it looks like I can't spell - dont worry. Guess the Packers are doing well. \something like 8-1?? Not too shabby. not really a lot going on. do however, need to do some laundry....Currently enjoying an mp3 player my lovely bride gave me. Thanks terri.. \well, got to take a shower and get ready for the what the day brings. At the moment, it's about 0500 local. I'll probably get to bed in the next 3hrs or so. I feel like a vampire - operating at night. DOUG

SLEEPLESS IN THE DESERT

5NOV07. Monday. The guys woke me at 0330Z (about 0800 local) to let me know that some schedules were being juggled. Needless to say, I saw some of the lovely countryside shortly thereafter. Still, go to my final destination (with no sleep) and am really looking forward to crashing. Did however, interecept some packages that my lovely bride sent. Got some decent boots - they are great. Also, got a MP3 Player for some music. Seems I'm just a little behind the power curve regarding musing players. I had this CD Player that is just a little bit bulky in the gym. So, as I model my new boots and break them in, I am looking forward to messing with some music later. Thanks Terri. I love you dearly. Oh, before I forget. Thanks for the Pics of the Kids. My how the girls are turning into little ladies. And Ryan is just getting big.....Also the crosswords and goodies (including the phone card) are always well received favorites. Thanks. Will update when I can. Doug

NEW GUY IN TOWN

4NOV07. Sunday. Met a friend from Pensacola here. His name is "Joe" and is employed by Pensacola as a Police Officer. Ran into him at the Gym. We used to share rides to New Orleans together. Funny thing is, he recognized me (even with a beard). I failed ot recognize him. Still, he's been here a whole two days. Ahhh, I remember what that was like - vaguely. Still, it's nice to find someone you know out here. Will probably be leaving again....Sometime. Will certainly update when I can. I do know that it will be a tad bit warmer. And that, I can deal with. Well, wish I had lots to say. Same ole' stuff - different day. Doug

WIDE AWAKE AT MIDNIGHT ZULU (OR 4:30L)

2Nov07. Friday. Well, finally made it thru to Terri tonight. Found her at her dad's house. Helping with Groceries and stuff. Got caught up on the world events of the neighborhood. Also lucked out and talked with Kristen and Ryan. Guess homecomming is just a week away. Whew, where does the time go. The kids are really growing up quickly. Kristen is also joining Power Puff Football. - I can only hope she can bring here GPA to the 3.0 required by the Florida Bright Futures Program. Gosh knows how we'd hate to leave free money on the table. Ryan sounds like a typical boy. All hustle and bustle. Guess he and his fellow skateboarders wandered the neighborhood and got quite a bit of candy. Well, tonight (today) is slated to get into the 30's. I can't wait. Well, will keep all appraised of the latest events (as I know them). Take Care for now. Doug

OH BABY IT'S COLD

1NOV07. Thursday. Found a phone free and tried to call home. No Joy. I was trying to finish my call from Tuesday - which was cut off. Oh, well. Still making arrangements to Travel Again. Yet have no word on when or where. Still, it's gotta be a little warmer than here. Boy, it's cold and getting colder. Now Snow Yet. Last year, I saw the biggest snowflakes of my life here. They were about the size of one's hand. Have managed to get caught up on my sleep. I know it's not gonna last, and I'm going to need the rest for the upcoming time here. Wish I had a more exciting life, but it is what it is. Will update when I can. Take Care for Now. Doug

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

29-31OCT07. Monday - Wednesday. Well, Happy Halloween Everybody. Hope everyone has a safe and happy halloween tonight. I managed to get thru last night to Terri and the Kids. Although I was cut off, I managed to Chat with Shannon and Ryan. Sounds like their plans for Halloween are truely exciting. Seems Shannon is over some friends house from band. Ryan has a wig and is dressing-up as a long haired kid. I suggested he take a skateboard to roundout the effect. He reports good grades (except the "D") which was brought up to a "low C". On a seperate note, we may be on the move again to see more of this great and wonderful country. I can't wait. Being too near the "Flagpole" has some major drawbacks. And, I can't wait to leave....to focus on the bad guys. The Temps are getting pretty cold at night. My buddy Jim is leaving for home shortly. Believe he has about 10days or so. Short Timer......I'm happy for him. Oh, I put my paperwork in for R&R for 8DEC07. Should be a good change of pace. I know I'm looking forward to it. Was able to watch the Packers Game the other night (during my 18-hr day). I was pretty tired. However, the game made up for it. Game went into overtime and Brett Farve threw the winning 82yd pass to Jenkins. Pretty cool. Believe they are 7&1 - I think. Well, running out of things to update everyone on. Take Care and I'll update when I can. Doug