31MAY08. SATURDAY. Today’s the day. Kristen Graduates…..Finally. Mixed Emotions Abound. Certainly for Kristen, but also for her Parents. Her class is slated to have the ceremony at 7:00PM Tonight. My wife Terri is having a small get-together of friends and family prior. Funny, the Refrigerator died today. Lot’s of frozen stuff had to be thrown out. Most food stuff went into Coolers. Ahhh, a Graduation to Remember. Only wish I was there to Honor her Graduation. Will update when I can. Have Fun. Doug
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
MEMORY LANE
29-30MAY08. THURSDAY-FRIDAY. Called my lovely wife to get an update on the pre-festivities associated with Kristen’s Graduation. My Sister Sharon made a surprise visit to attend Kristen’s Graduation and show off her new baby Kendal. For those who don’t know, my sister and I spent the majority of our Middle/High School years (ie., grew-up) in Cantonment, Florida. So, what visit is not complete without driving by the house/neighborhood that you grew-up in? Talk about bring back awkward memories… Sharon would point out where I would sneak a cigarette, the area where we would shoot the BB Gun, etc. After which, the gang visited my folks and went through the photo album! My wife was pretty amused with my sisters’ first Perm Job. Funny still were my “double-chins.” Don’t think my wife found the chubby kid attractive. Sounds like the family is having a grand old time. My Dad plans on driving Kristen in an Old Model T Hot Rod to the Graduation. Something certainly very unique. Can’t wait for the Photos. Well, Same old stuff here. Can’t wait to get back to the real world… Will update when I can. Doug
Thursday, May 29, 2008
PREPARATION IN FULL SWING
9MAY08. THURSDAY. Preparations are in full swing for Kristen’s Graduation at the Ramsdell house. My sister Sharon and her newborn (Kendall) made it safely from Boca Raton, Florida. When I called, the phone was intercepted by my sister who tried to disguise her voice as the Chinese Food Take-Out guy. She failed miserably. Did get to hear Kendal in the background crying… Guess my folks were over trying to get caught up on the latest developments for all concerned. A Baby Pool was purchased and our girls (Kristen and Shannon) were beating a path to play with their new cousin. Sounds like a wonderful time. Not a bad get-together for a Graduation. The running joke is it doesn’t happen too often in our family and when it does, everyone is excited!!! Well, have a great time. Will update when I can. Doug
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
ALMOST GRADUATION
28MAY08. WEDNESDAY. Another day outta the way. Inching closer to going home. My eldest daughter Kristen is upset that I will not be around to celebrate her graduation this weekend. I certainly don’t blame her. Yet, deep down she understands it’s out of our hands. I do know there will be lots of fanfare and celebration. In addition, I know that Terri has setup a wonderful family get together to honor this special occasion. I can’t wait to hear all about it. I’m sure pictures will follow. I relayed that when I graduated from Tate High School, the majority of folks wore bathing suits under their cap & gown. Then it was off to the beach. However, she informed me that all graduates will wear dress slacks and/or dresses. Then off to friends for a social. Ahh, the mixed emotions and feeling of graduating from High School. They are certainly a blur for me. However, I can recall the butterflies in the stomach as we prepare for college. Will update when I can. Doug
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
MEMORIAL DAY
26-27MAY08. MONDAY-TUESDAY. Happy Memorial Day. A time for Family Picnics, Fun with Friends, and a time to reflect. I close my eyes and am quickly transported to a time and place where all my family and friends were nearby. Kids jumping in the water, family getting caught up on the latest “news” from all. Friends stopping by to grab a beer, share a joke and well-wishes for all. I open my eyes and look around to see Guards on the Base Walls, Jets taking off, Convoys departing, and Operations ongoing throughout the night/day. These events occur 24x7; every day, rain or shine, hot or cold. Yet, I can’t help but think of the folks who have come before me. My time here is getting short (relatively). I see new faces each and every day. Faces filled equally with awe, wonderment and dread. All together, these experiences with are not unique to Afghanistan. The same is shared with men and women in Iraq, Somalia, and the Philippines. More importantly, these experiences transcend time. Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield, Operation Southern/Northern Watch, and the Vietnam Conflict. These are just a few during my generation. Constant are the men and women who have sacrificed much to meet the call of duty. This is the spirit of Memorial Day. A time to recognize and reflect the folks who have made untold sacrifices. More importantly, those men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Take Time to simply recognize these men and women, toast them, and save a seat for them in the near future. Have a Great Memorial Day. God Bless all. Doug
Sunday, May 25, 2008
4-DAY WEEKEND - NOT
25MAY08. SUNDAY. Got some amazing feedback from Shannon’s performance at Band last night. The guys and gals in band were all dressed-up and looked smart. The performance provided proved amazing. I can’t wait to see the pictures. It was a sold-out show as I understand it with many people left standing. The weather did turn for the worst upon departing the show. Ryan is milking the broken clavicle for all it’s worth. Managed to stay home and play boring X-Box Games during Shannon’s band performance. Kristen is doing some power-tanning/swimming prior to work at the Pizza joint. And, mom (Terri) was out looking for a cute Memorial Day outfit…. She has plans to attend a fund-raiser with her mom. The weather is pretty yukky. The severe rain is still in the area and has managed to cool things down quite a bit. With the rain comes mud. I only mention this because we’re scheduled to have some sort of inspection (again) in the not too distant future. So, the clean floors, stairs, passageways, etc. won’t be for long. Ha. Ha. Ha. Well, that’s about all I can relay at this point. Have a safe and enjoyable weekend. Doug
Saturday, May 24, 2008
BLOW YER HORN
24MAY08. SATURDAY. Last night the family went to watch Shannon (our middle Teenager) at Band. I managed to chat with the family prior to departure. Hopefully the threatening weather will hold off long enough for all the varied bands to play. Go Shanny Go. The weather here looks threatening as well. Thunder Bumpers rolled in early and rained sporadically. Got to sleep only to be shaken awake – literally. On of my Hootch-mates brought in a Bookshelf and decided to install it during our sleep cycle. Now, I’m generally an easy-going kinda guy. Until…. Well, you get the picture. Needless-to-say, I stumbled over and asked them to put the bookshelf in a later time. Happily, they decided to comply with the old, grumpy guy. There are only two modes of operation here work and sleep. And, I’ll let you know right now, we don’t get enough sleep. Well, that’s the latest saga in the life of Douggie. Will update when I can. Doug
Friday, May 23, 2008
RUMOR MILL/CONTROL
23MAY08. FRIDAY. Rumors about regarding my departure date. The hard date on Orders is for late JUL08. However, some believe I could perhaps be leaving a couple weeks early. Now, I’m not one to bet the farm. I do know that would be a welcomed change. Either way, I won’t know for sure for some time to come. And, I still have a couple of weeks worth of Gear Turn-in Stateside. Regardless, I’d be home actively seeking employment from the comfort of our little Hacienda and enjoying the company of Family and Friends….
A couple of weeks ago we got a Briefing on what to expect upon our arrival home. The experts say, initially, you can expect Emotional Distancing, some Anger and Frustration. Lastly, expect some Arguments. But, never, ever tolerate Abuse. I explained to my Wife I’d Never tolerate any Abuse from her…Ha. Ha. Ha.. Will Update when I can. Doug
Thursday, May 22, 2008
SAD DAY
22MAY08. THURSDAY. Laundry Day. Another day in the life-cycle of Afghanistan. Weather is Hot and getting Hotter. Nights are a little cooler. But not miserable like the daytime. Received some sad news from one of Terri’s college friends - Cheryl. Seems her 21yr old boy fell from his college dorm balcony and is not expected to make it. So, everyone a little sadder for their family. Terri and I were just discussing how fragile our lives are and how quickly they can be taken away at any day…. Our hearts and prayers do go out to Cheryl. Doug
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
1MAY08. WEDNESDAY. Well, just got off the phone with my lovely bride Terri. Luckily, Ryan’s broken clavicle is just a simple fracture. Happily, the doctor is gonna let the thing mend on it’s own. So, Ryan’s off to receive a fine Florida education. Kristen also got checked for mono. Fortunately, she tested negative for this dreaded kissing-disease. Happily, the doctor gave her some antibiotics and she’s off and running. Lastly, Shannon’s friend called to share a driving experience. Seems she and Shannon both have their driving licenses. The streets will never be the same…. So, all is right in the world.
Did get another inspirational note from a student in the UWF Leadership class. It starts. Mr Doug Ramsdell, I wish I could meet you as I have heard so many good things about you and your involvement to Dr Dupre’s leadership class. My name is Erica L. I am a senior student – athlete here at UWF. I will graduate in May 2008 with a degree in Advertising and a minor in Art. I have recently been offered the GA position for the assistant athletic director and will receive my Masters in Leadership Communication. It is people like you who influence me to be better. Sincerely, Erica L.
Well, Thanks Erica. I’m honored. Who wouldn’t be touched after a wonderful note such as this? Doug
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
WINDY CITY II
20MAY08. TUESDAY. Yet another windy day here in lovely afghanistan. Wind tends to find anything loose and blow it into the most inconvenient places. Thank goodness for barbedwire which seems to catch the majoity of trash. The Seabees were working on the power for the compound again. Sadly, it's like watching the Three Stooges. I watched the same guy get zapped twice. Too Funny. Unfortunately, with the power out, so is the AC and my little fan. Oh, well. Yet another gone by. Pretty much same ole' stuff on the homefront. Ryan is now loaded down with homework for missing these last few days. Shannon has joined Junior Statesman Club (Debat Society) and will start persuing the political aspect of things. Kristen is pretty busy with her social network. Tomorrow she has an appointment for her lingering illness. Ryan also has an appointment with the Ortho. I hope his clavicle break is just run-of-the-mill break. We'll See. Well, will update when I can. Doug
Monday, May 19, 2008
THE WINDY CITY
9MAY08. MONDAY. The Winds here are incredible. Gusts blowing things around constantly. Almost a pain in the rear to go outside. The wind is really pushing the Sand and Trash around the entire place quite readily. On a separate note, the fatigue was really catching up to me. So, instead of getting up to hit the Gym, I slept the additional hour. The full Five and ½ hours felt great and was sorely needed. Called home quickly to get an update on our Family. Seems the eldest girl might have a lingering infection of some sort. Goodness knows, the cold or whatever has been with her well before the Prom. Hopefully, we can get her doctor’s appointment accomplished in concert with Ryan’s medical appointment next week (to see if his clavicle will heal as is). Wishful thinking I’m sure. Lastly, our middle child spent the weekend at the beach at some friend’s beach house. She had fun tubing, swimming etc. Boy, speak of the hardtimes….
Lastly, I received another wonderful note of encouragement and support from a member of Dr DuPre’s leadership class at UWF. Thought I’d share it with you guys.
Dear Mr. Ramsdell,
I learned from Dr. DuPre that you worked closely with the Leadership Class last year. Well, I am Amanda M. and I am part of the Fall 2007 Class. We are working hard trying to get our project completed as we speak. I also heard that you are a member of the Ronald McDonald House Board of Directors. The Ronald McDonald House is very special to me and I also work very closely with them. I am an ALPHA DELTA PHI and the Ronald McDonald House is our National Philanthropy. I hope your stay across seas is going well and your family I safe and doing good. Thanks again for everything you do. Amanda M.
Thanks Amanada. Just this simple endorsement is a jolt to the system and a gentle reminder to be involved in something bigger than one’s self. Doug
Lastly, I received another wonderful note of encouragement and support from a member of Dr DuPre’s leadership class at UWF. Thought I’d share it with you guys.
Dear Mr. Ramsdell,
I learned from Dr. DuPre that you worked closely with the Leadership Class last year. Well, I am Amanda M. and I am part of the Fall 2007 Class. We are working hard trying to get our project completed as we speak. I also heard that you are a member of the Ronald McDonald House Board of Directors. The Ronald McDonald House is very special to me and I also work very closely with them. I am an ALPHA DELTA PHI and the Ronald McDonald House is our National Philanthropy. I hope your stay across seas is going well and your family I safe and doing good. Thanks again for everything you do. Amanda M.
Thanks Amanada. Just this simple endorsement is a jolt to the system and a gentle reminder to be involved in something bigger than one’s self. Doug
Sunday, May 18, 2008
WEEKEND UPDATE
8MAY08. SUNDAY. Just got off the phone with my beautiful bride with a weekend update. Of course I caught her out of breath (and I think I heard a male’s voice in the background). Her explanation for being out of breath is vacuuming the Florida Room. Sure….. Apparently, our middle daughter is off for the weekend at a friends Beach House (how rough). Our eldest daughter is out socializing with her friends. And, our boy is at home nursing his broken clavicle by playing X-Box 360 with his friend. Time is certainly a blur here. One day just simply blurs into the next. No differentiation between the weekday, weekend, or anything in-between. Time just drones on with grey hair and wrinkles quickly following. This is not necessarily a bad thing. See, the quicker time goes by, the sooner I can complain from the comforts of my home. Ha. Ha. Hope you have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the little things you have. Doug
Saturday, May 17, 2008
OLD FOGGIES
17MAY08. SATURDAY. Another weekend is upon us. I know I’m personally getting excited for our daughter’s upcoming High School Graduation. This means three things, first she will be attending Pensacola Junior College shortly. Two my wife and I are getting old(er). Three, I will have less than two months after her graduation overseas. Well, at least we’re not Grandparents yet... We lost power for about 10-hours today. Fortunately, the Back-up Generator kicked-up, and essential power was on. Then Off. Then On. Then Off. Then On. The majority of new folks found the Air Conditioner was not considered “essential”. And, the Temps quickly soared skyward. What a lovely place filled with sweaty and stinky folks. Chatted with my bride, Terri. Guess her day was just as busy and jammed-packed as mine was. Ryan spent the day with his Grandma. I’m sure they had a wonderful time together. Well, folks are starting to stack up waiting for the Internet. Will close for now. Talk Care. Doug
Friday, May 16, 2008
SCREW-UP
6MAY08. FRIDAY. Boy are my days screwed up. I thought yesterday was Friday. So, TGIF Today. Not much going on here other than the wind picking-up. And, like the beach, with the wind comes sand…..Everywhere. Mouth, pockets, PC Drives, everywhere. However, the past couple of nights was pretty pleasant. Haven’t seen nor heard of a rocket attack in quite some time. On the home scene, Ryan is making adjustments regarding his recent fracture. He has an appointment on Tuesday. Hopefully, all that will be required is a splint and nothing invasive. Our middle daughter is now environmentally-conscious. So, we’re separating the paper, plastic and aluminum. I hope her environmental efforts continue to grow. The eldest daughter is preparing for Graduation and all that entails. Finger foods, reception before and after, etc. I only wish I was there…. Boy, what a time in our wayward lives. Well, will update when I can. Take Care Doug
Thursday, May 15, 2008
A SHAKESPERIAN TRAGEDY
16MAY08. FRIDAY. Waahoooo. It’s finally Friday. Only two more working days until Monday. Things on this side of the world are pretty much the same. Nothing New. Only measurement of time gone is the size of the dirty clothes pile. Spoke with Terri to get some feedback regarding Ryan’s injury (broken clavicle) as well as an update of her mom’s vision (result of a vehicle accident in Feb). It seems Ryan will spend a little time with his grandmother while Terri is working. I maintain the pair will compliment each other. Ryan in essence will be a seeing-eye dog for his grandmother. She, will be his right-hand man (woman) so to speak. This entire situation reminds me of a Shakespearian tragedy. Well, that’s the latest information from the front lines. Will update when I can. Doug
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
LIFE'S LITTLE LESSONS
14MAY08. TUESDAY. So, called my Bride (Terri) for a quick chat. Happily I reached her (after many attempts). Sadly, I caught her enroute to the Emergency Room. Seems our son Ryan was doing some stunts on his Skateboard and fell on his shoulder. The discoloration and associated swelling was all that was required to send my wife and son to the ER for some X-Rays. Luckily, it’s nothing life-threatening. And, more importantly, it serves as another reminder for Ryan to wear his Helmet….. Together, mom & son were in good spirits (all things considered). Ryan got away with a Broken Clavical. Will get an update tomorrow. Another day chipped-away here. Weather looked a little threatening, but no precipitation materialized. From a Job-Hunting Perspective, have not had an Interview yet. Have however, been networking my can off. Have also been digging through the Job Boards, etc. Nothing yet. Still, I have a couple of months to play with. I’m sure it will work out fine. My Demobilization Orders take me from North Carolina, to South Carolina, then to Mississippi, the New Orleans and finally Home (Florida). At least all this movement is on the east coast. Ha. Ha. Well, gotta look at some job openings. Will Update when I can. God Speed Ryan. Doug
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
CARBO LOADING
13MAY08. TUESDAY. Another day drags by. Still only a couple of months to go until unemployment. I can't wait..... My bride is certainly a Starch lover and I thought I'd include a pic of the bread which is made here. They make these dry roll-ups (like fiajitas) but without any sauce. And, these breads are huge.... Son is feeling kinda puny (sick) so, school or scouts - Again. Well, wanted to just check-in to say hi and I'm still here (unfortunately). Counting down the days til home....
Monday, May 12, 2008
THE GLASS IS HALF-EMPTY
13MAY08. MONDAY. Well, Mother’s Day has come and gone. Goodness knows it’s probably Mother’s Day all year round. Shame we only recognize it once a year….When wishing my wife a Happy Mother’s day, I was reflecting on happier times. My thoughts quickly turned to my Homecoming us reuniting. Happily we only have about 8-9 Weekends alone left! When you do that kinda math, it doesn’t sound too bad. Attended a class on weapons familiarization…….again. This is a new requirement. Seems some guy shot his buddy in the smoking pit while checking out his weapon. Why the guy was checking out his weapon in the smoking pit certainly raises some questions. Regardless, the Guy survived. Both guys were sent home immediately. And now, quarterly training is required on weapons….. Well, another day has come and gone. Will certainly update when I can. Take Care for now. Doug
Sunday, May 11, 2008
HAPPY MOTHER"S DAY
10-11MAY08. SATURDAY-SUNDAY. Happy Mother's Day to all you moms. It's one of those jobs which are often overlooked. Well, today is your day to do nothing. No Laundry, No Dishes, Nothing but watching those Chick-Flick Movies and have your every whim catered to......
I tried to update this darn Blog yesterday, but was unable. The Internet Cafe' was closed due to another "Fallen Camrade" ceremony. Sadly, I've almost become immune feeling sad for loosing another person here. Almost surreal. Another Wakeup, Another line for chow and another death. Taken together, this would put one in an sad mood. Happliy, frequent chats with my lovely bride spring me right out of these blue-days. Just a couple of months left until I can hang around the house in shorts and t-shirt. Hopefully, I can collect unemployment as well. Ha, Ha, Ha. Well, again. Happy Mothers Day to all Mommies. Doug
Friday, May 9, 2008
ROUTINE
8-9MAY08. THURSDAY-FRIDAY. My humble apologies for not updating yesterday. Quickly ran out of time going through the email. Twenty minutes does go by quickly while on the Internet. So, one must set priorities. Happily, the myriad of emails were centered on finding employment upon my return. Do understand that I have some photos from the Prom as well as Ryan’s Birthday waiting for my viewing pleasure via email. I can’t wait to see them. My wife and I continually joke about my “adjustment” when coming home. I giggle only because, my biggest concern is re-learning to drive vehicles and obey the appropriate motorist laws. This includes which side the steering wheel is on, seatbelts, speed limits, and the general safe-condition of the vehicle itself. After that, all else is gravy….Sure, all this sounds good on paper. We’ll see.. Well, same on daily routine. Work 12-15 Hours, Sleep for 5-6, PT for 2-3. Then do it all over again. And again, and again…..Will update when I can. Doug
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
SPARE A PENNY?
7MAY08. Wednesday. I'm so stoked. I finally have a date for departing this lovely country. Must admit, I'm just a little bit anxious. Only because I know leaving is not far away and I don't have a job lined-up when I get back. Okay, Okay. What I mean is "I have an unlimited number of opportnities from which to excell". Or, you could say that "when one door closes another open". Either way, I gotta now reintegrate back into the civilian sector. Still, these challenges only appear as speedbumps in the journey of life...... Lots going on. Gotta hit the email and do some networking. Doug
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
SEVENTY-FIVE DAYS
6MAY08. TUESDAY. Well, today I’m pretty jazzed. Received yet another “verbal” confirmation that I’ll be departing for the States at the end of July 2008. This puts me a little more at ease about my departure date. Conversely, I still have nothing in-hand (no orders) which direct me to go home. So, the position leave me hanging a little. The Current intent is to get Stateside and go from there….Something to look forward to at a minimum. Only 75-days left here, but who’s counting? Then will be the adventure of the transition back to some normalcy (whatever that is/was). Still don’t have a job yet. But, I’m certainly developing leads through my simple network of friends. At this point, I have had several opportunities in Iraq, but somehow that really doesn’t appeal to me at this point. Well, only have about 20min of computer time and I need to check-up on my job leads (if any). Remember only 75-days left till I can drink a beer. But, who’s counting? Doug
Monday, May 5, 2008
WHERE WERE YOU???
5 MAY08. MONDAY. Well, another week starts anew. Our Eldest made it through Prom night ($400 later). Guess she was a little bummed because the majority of folks had dates. She went with her friends. Afterwards, they went to a mutual friend’s house to hang out. She admittedly had a better time after Prom hanging with her friends than the Prom itself. Called my wife to find her neck-deep into a cookout/birthday for my son. Actually, the cookout was to celebrate the visiting relatives of the in-laws prior to their departure. Timing of the cookout & B-Day was right so they folded-in the son’s birthday as well. My Son is at the age where money talks. Goodness knows, Innerlight Skate and Surf shop will be doing some business off him in the near future. Do want to get him re-focused on the Boy Scouts again. A challenge from afar….. So, if he can remember to bring his book with him to the Scout meeting he can get credit for some events he has been involved in. The hard part of all is to get a darn adult to sign the Scout Book. Harder still is getting the scout to remember to ask!
On a different note, got another card from a student of UWF Comms Class. It reads:
Dear Doug,
My father, sister and cousin are doing what you are doing right now and I know how proud of them I am and how proud of you your family is. When I think of how rough school and such can be I think well, at leas I’m not over there. But, smile and be happy you are changing the world and helping the people who can’t always help themselves. You are doing a great job. Keep your head up. Marisa E.
Wow. Pretty Powerful stuff. Thanks Marisa. I already know I’ll certainly remember the good times and the positive changes we’ve made to date. The hum-drum and tedium of daily-life will fade quickly. I will always have stories when asked what did you do during Thanksgiving? Christmas? Birthday? Prom Nite? WHERE WERE YOU? Me, didn't do much……Ha. Ha. Ha
Will update when I can. Take Care for Now. Doug
On a different note, got another card from a student of UWF Comms Class. It reads:
Dear Doug,
My father, sister and cousin are doing what you are doing right now and I know how proud of them I am and how proud of you your family is. When I think of how rough school and such can be I think well, at leas I’m not over there. But, smile and be happy you are changing the world and helping the people who can’t always help themselves. You are doing a great job. Keep your head up. Marisa E.
Wow. Pretty Powerful stuff. Thanks Marisa. I already know I’ll certainly remember the good times and the positive changes we’ve made to date. The hum-drum and tedium of daily-life will fade quickly. I will always have stories when asked what did you do during Thanksgiving? Christmas? Birthday? Prom Nite? WHERE WERE YOU? Me, didn't do much……Ha. Ha. Ha
Will update when I can. Take Care for Now. Doug
Sunday, May 4, 2008
BAND, BIRTHDAYS, AND PROM - OH, MY!
4MAY08. SUNDAY. Well, it's Prom Night back home for my eldest daughter. Saturday Night, and, I have to admit I have butterflies in my gut even here. After chatting with the family, it sounds like she has a wonderful night set-up with her friends from school. Still though, I hope all goes well for her. Also, got feedback from the middle daughter's Band Banquet. Guess who got voted Funnies in Class. Yup, our middle daughter. Also understand that there is a cookout/birthday at the brother-in-law's house. And my son will be celebrating his Birthday as well. Best Wishes to all and Good Luck. Will be with you in spirit. Won't dwell on the issue. Will Update when I can. Doug
Saturday, May 3, 2008
LAUNDRY DAY
03MAY08. SATURDAY. Laundry Day. What a time to celebrate! Certainly far exceeds any celebration at home like Prom, Band Banquets, or Birthdays. Laundry Rules! Actually, just took advantage of the vacant Laundry Room. Also, passing by the laundry sack filled with stinky clothes was a subtle reminder. Still no news to confirm my return in July. Nor any movement on the job scene. Actually, have been hit-up by several defense contractors to deploy to Iraq - but, those don’t count. It’s amazing to see the number of folks who volunteered to come here. And, after hearing how a number of Government Civilian folks are getting a $10,000 bonus for 4-months, I don’t blame them. Also, know of several police officers who continue to draw a paycheck from their respective departments in addition to their military paycheck…. I only wish I had those problems. Still, we always seem to find the Road Less Traveled. On the plus side, my laundry is done, and I need to put it into the dryer. What Fun. Will update when I can. Doug
Friday, May 2, 2008
DARWIN AWARDS – A POTENTIAL CANDIDATE
2MAY08. FRIDAY. So, I called home in typical fashion and spent some time chatting with the kids. Getting the daily dump, finding out who’s sick, school events, etc. In the course of this update, I find our girls climb on our roof to get Sunburn. I mean suntan. So I ask (stupidly) for the rationale for climbing on the roof to get a tan. The answer, it’s closer to the sun….. After chuckling, the vision of one of the girls rolling off the roof enters my brain. In addition, after a little digging, I find that no ladder is used to gain access to the roof. Rather, a bucket is placed in a plastic chair, and with the assistance of a Garbage Can, the girls climb onto the Roof. Now if this isn’t a candidate for the Darwin Awards, I don’t know what is. Lastly, I find that not only are my girls tanning on the Roof, but so too are their friends. Now, the vision of some other family’s daughter in the hospital (with me paying the bills) enters my pea-brain. Still, it’s pretty funny. Well, another day goes by. Will update when I can. Doug
Thursday, May 1, 2008
HUMBLED BY NAUTILUS
1MAY08. THURSDAY. Received several letters my involvement with the Leadership Class from UWF. First, I am simply in awe that students in the class are even sending these letters. Second, the message each contains resonates. Lastly, I am humbled that so many people care so much about a simple guy such as my self. The following letters were well received and are certainly an inspiration to me. Talk about a support network! Wow
Dear Doug,
I hope this little note finds you both safe and well in Iraq. I’m sure you are really missing home right now, but be comforted in knowing that we are all thinking of you and your family, and that we are praying for your quick and safe return. Stay safe and please know that the UWF Comms. Dept misses you! God Bless. Than you for your dedication to our country. Lindsey M.
Dear Doug,
First, I would just like to than you!! For everything you’re doing for our country! Many people may not realize how much you are sacrificing by being away but, just know that there are people who recognize you and everything you are doing and we really appreciate it. Amber B.
Doug,
I hear from Dr. DuPre and see from what you are doing that you are a fascinating person. I am a doctor at Nemours. Thank you for the part that you played I the Ronald McDonald House and in getting the van. Please come back home safely and maybe I will meet you when you return. Thanks Dr. Kevin Maupin
Dear Doug,
I hope this little note finds you both safe and well in Iraq. I’m sure you are really missing home right now, but be comforted in knowing that we are all thinking of you and your family, and that we are praying for your quick and safe return. Stay safe and please know that the UWF Comms. Dept misses you! God Bless. Than you for your dedication to our country. Lindsey M.
Dear Doug,
First, I would just like to than you!! For everything you’re doing for our country! Many people may not realize how much you are sacrificing by being away but, just know that there are people who recognize you and everything you are doing and we really appreciate it. Amber B.
Doug,
I hear from Dr. DuPre and see from what you are doing that you are a fascinating person. I am a doctor at Nemours. Thank you for the part that you played I the Ronald McDonald House and in getting the van. Please come back home safely and maybe I will meet you when you return. Thanks Dr. Kevin Maupin
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