Was clicking through channels, and passed the Pentagon channel. (Hey, when it's a military owned cable network, you KNOW you're going to get the Pentagon channel!)
Anyway, at that very moment, they were starting a report from Kandahar. It was about how the coalition was helping pilgrims for the Hajj.
It was the first civilian use of the Kandahar airport (aka Kandahar Air Field) since the war began. It seemed unusual to see all the familiar sites...
Actually felt... "Homesick". Strange.
31 December 2005
Why? Freedom
Mary Ann sent me her first Hat Tip... Michelle Malkin has a nice article, certainly well worth the read.
Why Nary A Peep*
Two-Headed Coins. That was the title I was originally working with for this particular posts. Those who've been reading for awhile know how much I enjoy the fun of titling the posts.
I was looking at today (in particular, and the time of year in general) as the end of a really rotten year, and the opportunity for a new year to begin.
A side note - isn't it interesting how we always believe that changing the digits in the date can somehow adjust the course our lives are travelling?
Anyways, I'd been looking at 2005 as a truly bad year. The unit leaving, Thomas' difficult birth, My deployment beginning, My first experience being mortared, Missing My First Anniversary (with a really wonderful woman), Seeing a Ramp Ceremony, The War Hit Close to Home (please read this one), The very concept of experiencing my 2nd attack in my life (never saw my life like THIS), and there's always... a whole new storm.
You'll notice that that's quite a few links to posts... understandably, it's easy to call it a bad year.
But life is definitely a two-headed coin. Even when it's showing heads, there's still another way to look at it.
As my Dad pointed out, this year also gave me my son, the opportunity to have a wife to share an Anniversary with (even if apart), the chance to serve my country, the chance to be home at Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the chance to come home at all.
So, maybe, in retrospect, 2005 wasn't that bad. 2006 is another year, or perhaps... Sunday is just the day after Saturday. But, either way, I truly can't complain.
Through this blog, and Soldiers' Angels, we've become linked to dozens of new friends we never knew we had.
2005 was a good year, after all. And of course, let's not forget this minor day.
* So why DID I use this for a title?
I was looking at today (in particular, and the time of year in general) as the end of a really rotten year, and the opportunity for a new year to begin.
A side note - isn't it interesting how we always believe that changing the digits in the date can somehow adjust the course our lives are travelling?
Anyways, I'd been looking at 2005 as a truly bad year. The unit leaving, Thomas' difficult birth, My deployment beginning, My first experience being mortared, Missing My First Anniversary (with a really wonderful woman), Seeing a Ramp Ceremony, The War Hit Close to Home (please read this one), The very concept of experiencing my 2nd attack in my life (never saw my life like THIS), and there's always... a whole new storm.
You'll notice that that's quite a few links to posts... understandably, it's easy to call it a bad year.
But life is definitely a two-headed coin. Even when it's showing heads, there's still another way to look at it.
As my Dad pointed out, this year also gave me my son, the opportunity to have a wife to share an Anniversary with (even if apart), the chance to serve my country, the chance to be home at Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the chance to come home at all.
So, maybe, in retrospect, 2005 wasn't that bad. 2006 is another year, or perhaps... Sunday is just the day after Saturday. But, either way, I truly can't complain.
Through this blog, and Soldiers' Angels, we've become linked to dozens of new friends we never knew we had.
2005 was a good year, after all. And of course, let's not forget this minor day.
* So why DID I use this for a title?
Fonecall Re: Group (FRG)
Ok, so I really stretched on the title this time.
Anyway, received a phonecall from the FRG co-leader wanting to confirm that I no longer needed dinners delivered.
She was slightly surprised when I mentioned that the reason was because I was informed that the FRG had indicated to my command that they felt overburdened.
We had about a 20 minute phone call, and suffice it to say, it appears there's just the teensiest bit of miscommunication going on, or politics, or... who knows...
Not my teapot to have a tempest in.
Interesting, though. Wonder who's playing the next card?
I ended the call with, "The official message to the FRG is that Ellicia and I are extremely thankful for the help and support and appreciate all of the well-wishes from the group."
Life goes on.
Anyway, received a phonecall from the FRG co-leader wanting to confirm that I no longer needed dinners delivered.
She was slightly surprised when I mentioned that the reason was because I was informed that the FRG had indicated to my command that they felt overburdened.
We had about a 20 minute phone call, and suffice it to say, it appears there's just the teensiest bit of miscommunication going on, or politics, or... who knows...
Not my teapot to have a tempest in.
Interesting, though. Wonder who's playing the next card?
I ended the call with, "The official message to the FRG is that Ellicia and I are extremely thankful for the help and support and appreciate all of the well-wishes from the group."
Life goes on.
29 December 2005
He Ain't Dead Yet!
A special congratulations goes out to my Dad! He celebrated his 60th birthday a couple o' days ago.
And he truly celebrated! It's like I always remind people, and him, and the title of this post... one of the best things about a birthday is it means you're not dead yet! (I've always loved a particular Star Trek quote in reference to birthdays - "What's so wrong with not having died?")
It's a nice thing that he's gone and done. I've gauged many of my accomplishments of late towards precedents set by my father. He survived Basic Training (when it was REALLY tough), I can do it. He can endure the Army, I can do it. He can manage not to kill his child (a big thank you, by the way, Dad), I can... well, so far, I've managed that one. So, if he can reach 60, then by golly, I'm gonna do it.
And finally, as a special treat, there's a particular copy of a comedy routine (I think it's by George Carlin, but I can't be sure.
Since I'm not sure exactly to whom the copyright belongs, please know that this material was originally written by whomever originally wrote it... originally.
Here goes:
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids?
If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions. "How old are you?" "I'm four and a half!" You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five!
That's the key. You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back.
You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead. "How old are you?" "I'm gonna be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16!
And then the greatest day of your life . . . you become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony . . . YOU BECOME 21. . . YEAS!!!
But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk. He TURNED, we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're just a sour-dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 . . . and your dreams are gone.
But wait!!! You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would!
So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60. You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70!
After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday! You get into your 80s and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime.
And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; "I was JUST 92."
Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half!"
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!
HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him/her.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. " An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
Happy Birthday, Dad!
And he truly celebrated! It's like I always remind people, and him, and the title of this post... one of the best things about a birthday is it means you're not dead yet! (I've always loved a particular Star Trek quote in reference to birthdays - "What's so wrong with not having died?")
It's a nice thing that he's gone and done. I've gauged many of my accomplishments of late towards precedents set by my father. He survived Basic Training (when it was REALLY tough), I can do it. He can endure the Army, I can do it. He can manage not to kill his child (a big thank you, by the way, Dad), I can... well, so far, I've managed that one. So, if he can reach 60, then by golly, I'm gonna do it.
And finally, as a special treat, there's a particular copy of a comedy routine (I think it's by George Carlin, but I can't be sure.
Since I'm not sure exactly to whom the copyright belongs, please know that this material was originally written by whomever originally wrote it... originally.
Here goes:
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids?
If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions. "How old are you?" "I'm four and a half!" You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five!
That's the key. You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back.
You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead. "How old are you?" "I'm gonna be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16!
And then the greatest day of your life . . . you become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony . . . YOU BECOME 21. . . YEAS!!!
But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk. He TURNED, we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're just a sour-dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 . . . and your dreams are gone.
But wait!!! You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would!
So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60. You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70!
After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday! You get into your 80s and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime.
And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; "I was JUST 92."
Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half!"
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!
HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him/her.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. " An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
Happy Birthday, Dad!
Followup Regarding Generosity (F.R.G.)
Thanks for the comment, Tom... sadly, I think that since the 1SG has been the one who suggested that I not accept nor solicit any help from the FRG (i.e., ANYone connected to the unit), I don't see it happening.
I am allowed to use one friend. She's a Soldier in the unit, but she's also a really good friend, and someone whom the kids love and adore. She's practically a member of the family (even spent Christmas with us). Anyway, we've worked out a deal with her supervisor where she can even come over and watch the kids even during duty hours.
However, of course... even any other friends who are connected to the unit are unusable for babysitting.
Checked with the base CDC (Child Development Center or Child Dumping Center) and there are easy to find spots for M and K, but of course, not T. Their slots are all full. So, I'll figure something out there... not sure what...
Probably going to work like this: Kids in school, and Soldier can watch T, as long as duty doesn't conflict. She is serving on the Quick Reaction Force, so in the event that the base is invaded, she'll need to drop T off with... someone. Going to try to find a back-up to my plan.
Sigh...
Think I'll be smart and try to find some babysitters on the economy. They aren't connected to the unit! Germans are working well for M, so why not? Besides, they'll be paid... Who can argue with that?
(Oh, and Tom... I think I'll pass on the WTF... good sentiment, but doesn't quite fit with the site...)
Passing 10,000 hits!!!
I am allowed to use one friend. She's a Soldier in the unit, but she's also a really good friend, and someone whom the kids love and adore. She's practically a member of the family (even spent Christmas with us). Anyway, we've worked out a deal with her supervisor where she can even come over and watch the kids even during duty hours.
However, of course... even any other friends who are connected to the unit are unusable for babysitting.
Checked with the base CDC (Child Development Center or Child Dumping Center) and there are easy to find spots for M and K, but of course, not T. Their slots are all full. So, I'll figure something out there... not sure what...
Probably going to work like this: Kids in school, and Soldier can watch T, as long as duty doesn't conflict. She is serving on the Quick Reaction Force, so in the event that the base is invaded, she'll need to drop T off with... someone. Going to try to find a back-up to my plan.
Sigh...
Think I'll be smart and try to find some babysitters on the economy. They aren't connected to the unit! Germans are working well for M, so why not? Besides, they'll be paid... Who can argue with that?
(Oh, and Tom... I think I'll pass on the WTF... good sentiment, but doesn't quite fit with the site...)
Passing 10,000 hits!!!
A Ray of Sunshine
Well, some good news...
AAFES, known for its consistent overcharging of gas prices (yes, yes, I know, they deny it), is lowering gas prices next month.
Currently, I pay $2.62 per gallon of gas. Next month, it'll be $2.43.
Some education: In Germany (and some other countries), AAFES sets gas prices monthly. It's said to be based to the Department of Energy's index of gas prices in the states, but... no one quite believes that is the whole truth. Anyway, I'll save that rant for another post.
Bottom line, it should get cheaper, which is great news... currently, I'm filling up about $50-$60 every two days... so, any drop in the price is going to be a welcome respite...
Nice ray of sunshine!!!
AAFES, known for its consistent overcharging of gas prices (yes, yes, I know, they deny it), is lowering gas prices next month.
Currently, I pay $2.62 per gallon of gas. Next month, it'll be $2.43.
Some education: In Germany (and some other countries), AAFES sets gas prices monthly. It's said to be based to the Department of Energy's index of gas prices in the states, but... no one quite believes that is the whole truth. Anyway, I'll save that rant for another post.
Bottom line, it should get cheaper, which is great news... currently, I'm filling up about $50-$60 every two days... so, any drop in the price is going to be a welcome respite...
Nice ray of sunshine!!!
Insert Title Here*
I'm not sure where to even start... I'm not so much frustrated as... well, I don't even know.
Had a sit-down chat with the First Sergeant this morning. It was kindly suggested that I back off of using the offers of help from the FRG. Someone complained.
Doesn't someone always complain?
It seems that as hard as I tried to make sure I spread things out and didn't use the same people over and over (even though that meant the kids were always with new people), someone felt "used" and "overworked" and "overburdened".
Not sure how, but it doesn't matter.
Someone complained.
A phone call was made.
And the kicker is I don't know who's still on the "We'd LOVE to Help" list. So, have to drop everyone.
No more dinner help, either (even though that was never the same person twice).
So, back to paying for childcare (when available, cause the spots just aren't open). Kids are still home on winter break...
Just incredibly frustrating.
What would it take for people to be GENUINELY honest and open? If you can't help, then don't offer. If you feel motivated to say something, then offer, "You're in our thoughts" or "That's a shame..." But, if you SAY "How can I help?" or "Can I watch the kids?", then please don't complain if I take you up on it.
The FRG offered to bring meals... apparently, someone is overburdened.
The FRG offered the childcare.
But, alas. I just have to move to my fall-back plan... paying for childcare and making do best I can. $12/hour/child. Grrrrrrrr. And of course, the ONE child not in school (once the schools are running again?)... Thomas. The one place that's full-up and can't take more kids? Infant-care.
Frustrating. Sad.
But, as I told 1SG, not unexpected. In all such situations, there's always the huge swell of sympathy, empathy, and "How can we help?"... and then, it dies down. And further, it eventually turns to resentment. It's a common cycle, and it can be seen in any long-term cycle of need - be it caring for a sick person, helping out a family struck by crisis (home burns down), or even on a larger scale, Hurricane Katrina Evacuees.
Anyway, getting ready to start writing the Thank You notes. So many people HAVE been genuinely wonderful... of course, anyone of them could have also made the phone call, but as a boss of mine once taught me (he said it like a mantra), "Believe in the good of the people."
Regroup... Restrategize... Re-plan... Rebudget... Life goes on.
* - I said Insert Title Here as there were quite a few possible ones, and none struck me as a good one. So, here for those who love titles are some of the contenders:
The Downward Wave
Inevitability is Inevitable
Frustration
A Small Community
It Takes Just One Call
(Do YOU have a suggested title?)
Had a sit-down chat with the First Sergeant this morning. It was kindly suggested that I back off of using the offers of help from the FRG. Someone complained.
Doesn't someone always complain?
It seems that as hard as I tried to make sure I spread things out and didn't use the same people over and over (even though that meant the kids were always with new people), someone felt "used" and "overworked" and "overburdened".
Not sure how, but it doesn't matter.
Someone complained.
A phone call was made.
And the kicker is I don't know who's still on the "We'd LOVE to Help" list. So, have to drop everyone.
No more dinner help, either (even though that was never the same person twice).
So, back to paying for childcare (when available, cause the spots just aren't open). Kids are still home on winter break...
Just incredibly frustrating.
What would it take for people to be GENUINELY honest and open? If you can't help, then don't offer. If you feel motivated to say something, then offer, "You're in our thoughts" or "That's a shame..." But, if you SAY "How can I help?" or "Can I watch the kids?", then please don't complain if I take you up on it.
The FRG offered to bring meals... apparently, someone is overburdened.
The FRG offered the childcare.
But, alas. I just have to move to my fall-back plan... paying for childcare and making do best I can. $12/hour/child. Grrrrrrrr. And of course, the ONE child not in school (once the schools are running again?)... Thomas. The one place that's full-up and can't take more kids? Infant-care.
Frustrating. Sad.
But, as I told 1SG, not unexpected. In all such situations, there's always the huge swell of sympathy, empathy, and "How can we help?"... and then, it dies down. And further, it eventually turns to resentment. It's a common cycle, and it can be seen in any long-term cycle of need - be it caring for a sick person, helping out a family struck by crisis (home burns down), or even on a larger scale, Hurricane Katrina Evacuees.
Anyway, getting ready to start writing the Thank You notes. So many people HAVE been genuinely wonderful... of course, anyone of them could have also made the phone call, but as a boss of mine once taught me (he said it like a mantra), "Believe in the good of the people."
Regroup... Restrategize... Re-plan... Rebudget... Life goes on.
* - I said Insert Title Here as there were quite a few possible ones, and none struck me as a good one. So, here for those who love titles are some of the contenders:
The Downward Wave
Inevitability is Inevitable
Frustration
A Small Community
It Takes Just One Call
(Do YOU have a suggested title?)
26 December 2005
They Came From the East
Ok, a hat tip here to CounterColumn. Mary Ann sent this to me. The picture is on there with the caption "They came from the East, three of them... bearing gifts."
Love it. Nice little twist.
(and yes, before anyone comments, I CAN count... There are four. Let it go...)
Cowards!
Something to keep in mind during the next time you're watching your favorite war shoot-em-up flick, or listening to some good ol-fashioned gansta rap...
It seems that a lot of celebrities (whom we're all sure "Support The Troops") are either too AFRAID or too Anti-War to go perform for the troops.
According to an article in UK's The Guardian, many of the stars who used to rally to the cause now shy away. Also, to be fair, hat tip to Robin Williams, Al Franken, and Henry Rollins, who, according to the article, have done shows while not supporting the war.
Some people talk... others are all talk.
It seems that a lot of celebrities (whom we're all sure "Support The Troops") are either too AFRAID or too Anti-War to go perform for the troops.
According to an article in UK's The Guardian, many of the stars who used to rally to the cause now shy away. Also, to be fair, hat tip to Robin Williams, Al Franken, and Henry Rollins, who, according to the article, have done shows while not supporting the war.
Some people talk... others are all talk.
24 December 2005
Christmas Achieved!
For the past couple of weeks, I've had a bit of a Sword of Damocles hanging over my head.
Christmas is a firm date on the calendar. No hiding it. No moving it. It is where it is.
Well, with the move, the week lost to the hospital (not a bad reason, just a fact), and then all the other appointments, etc... well, Christmas at our household was in jeopardy.
There just wasn't enough time. When to get a tree up? Buy presents? Decorate?
It wasn't happening. And as much as Ellicia and I could certainly forgive each other if there was no Christmas this year, the children would never understand. It would be retold countless times some twenty years from now in books and on Oprah's couch.
Sigh.
The days continued to march forward, and Christmas seemed more and more hopeless.
To add to it, in the immediate days leading up, there was another treatment for Ellicia, so that effectively not only took her out of the ballgame, but immobilized me as well... can't go anywhere if I'm staying to make sure she's ok (again, not complaining).
And then, a break. On Friday, 23 December, I got the tree up. A live tree and stand had been donated to us, and had been sitting on our balcony (still is, too), but AAFES, in all its wisdom, does not sell 110V lights. They sold plenty of 220V lights - just like I can buy at ANY OTHER STORE in Germany, but the 110V that I need in base housing? Can't find that... sigh. What's a tree with no lights?
We had an artificial tree (with lights pre-arranged), so up it went.
I begged a friend to come over for a few hours Friday afternoon so Ellicia and I could go shopping. She napped before, and had just enough strength to wander some aisles and we picked up a few things for the kids. Yippee!!!
And Saturday, Christmas Eve, the same friend blessedly took the kids out... as far as I can tell, they did a lot of driving and wandering, but for 6 sacred hours, we were alone. Presents were wrapped. Tree was decorated. Stockings were prepped (thanks to my Mum for some awesome stockings). We are set.
The house finally looks ready for Christmas. The kids will have it.
As for me, I'm a little sick, but nothing NyQuil can't take care of... and as for the stress, well, nothing a little NyQuil can't take care of... :)
Fröhliche Weihnachten!
(Merry Christmas)
Christmas is a firm date on the calendar. No hiding it. No moving it. It is where it is.
Well, with the move, the week lost to the hospital (not a bad reason, just a fact), and then all the other appointments, etc... well, Christmas at our household was in jeopardy.
There just wasn't enough time. When to get a tree up? Buy presents? Decorate?
It wasn't happening. And as much as Ellicia and I could certainly forgive each other if there was no Christmas this year, the children would never understand. It would be retold countless times some twenty years from now in books and on Oprah's couch.
Sigh.
The days continued to march forward, and Christmas seemed more and more hopeless.
To add to it, in the immediate days leading up, there was another treatment for Ellicia, so that effectively not only took her out of the ballgame, but immobilized me as well... can't go anywhere if I'm staying to make sure she's ok (again, not complaining).
And then, a break. On Friday, 23 December, I got the tree up. A live tree and stand had been donated to us, and had been sitting on our balcony (still is, too), but AAFES, in all its wisdom, does not sell 110V lights. They sold plenty of 220V lights - just like I can buy at ANY OTHER STORE in Germany, but the 110V that I need in base housing? Can't find that... sigh. What's a tree with no lights?
We had an artificial tree (with lights pre-arranged), so up it went.
I begged a friend to come over for a few hours Friday afternoon so Ellicia and I could go shopping. She napped before, and had just enough strength to wander some aisles and we picked up a few things for the kids. Yippee!!!
And Saturday, Christmas Eve, the same friend blessedly took the kids out... as far as I can tell, they did a lot of driving and wandering, but for 6 sacred hours, we were alone. Presents were wrapped. Tree was decorated. Stockings were prepped (thanks to my Mum for some awesome stockings). We are set.
The house finally looks ready for Christmas. The kids will have it.
As for me, I'm a little sick, but nothing NyQuil can't take care of... and as for the stress, well, nothing a little NyQuil can't take care of... :)
Fröhliche Weihnachten!
(Merry Christmas)
Chaplains, Redux
I recently wrote about the Navy Chaplain on a hunger strike in front of the White House.
While driving to another doc appointment, it occurred to me just how much fire he's playing with.
Overseas, we Americans pretty much get to listen to one source of American radio... Armed Forces Network.
AFN is a government-owned service. It's broadcasters are government employees. The whole thing is government... not a commercially originating part in there.
So what?
Well, it's possibly significant when AFN provides airtime to Chaplains - "Power Hour".
Or significant when the shows devote their time to Christmas music (no, not holiday music). While "Jingle Bells" could be argued as non-threatening to the ACLU, "Oh come, Emanuel" can most definitely not.
So, again... the Chaplain in question should realize that by drawing unnecessary attention to a cause that isn't really justified, he's throwing into jeopardy all the OTHER examples of religion supported by the government.
Just what IS the goal, here? To be able to say "Jesus" to a seaman who comes asking for help regarding a problem (religious or not), or to end up with a religiously sanitized military?
(Not that the Chaplain is reading the blog, but... just a thought.)
While driving to another doc appointment, it occurred to me just how much fire he's playing with.
Overseas, we Americans pretty much get to listen to one source of American radio... Armed Forces Network.
AFN is a government-owned service. It's broadcasters are government employees. The whole thing is government... not a commercially originating part in there.
So what?
Well, it's possibly significant when AFN provides airtime to Chaplains - "Power Hour".
Or significant when the shows devote their time to Christmas music (no, not holiday music). While "Jingle Bells" could be argued as non-threatening to the ACLU, "Oh come, Emanuel" can most definitely not.
So, again... the Chaplain in question should realize that by drawing unnecessary attention to a cause that isn't really justified, he's throwing into jeopardy all the OTHER examples of religion supported by the government.
Just what IS the goal, here? To be able to say "Jesus" to a seaman who comes asking for help regarding a problem (religious or not), or to end up with a religiously sanitized military?
(Not that the Chaplain is reading the blog, but... just a thought.)
C-17s in Largest Formation Ever
17 C-17's (nice number) flew in formation for the largest formation of C-17s ever. They can be seen flying over Charleston's beautiful new bridge (which I haven't seen yet) which is also impressive.
The 17 is quite a bird to fly on, as I've enjoyed a couple of times now...
During this flight, they practiced several of the 17's missions, including air drops, tactical landings, and refuelings.
Nice.
22 December 2005
Chaplains In The Military
This article in The Washington Times 21 December 2005 issue tries to raise concern over an issue that isn't there.
It seems there's a Navy Chaplain, LT Gordon Klingenschmitt, who's having a hunger strike in front of the White House. He's protesting that he's discouraged from praying in Jesus' name.
With due respect to the Chaplain, I believe he's misunderstood the balance between his duties as a Chaplain and his belief preferences.
Chaplains serve a unique role in the military. They exist to minister to all members of the service, irregardless of a Servicemember's choice of religion, or even choice of non-religion. Chaplains are schooled in the requirements of over 170 belief systems. Whatever their core, or originating faith, they're expected to serve all others. He may be Southern Baptist, for example, but he'll be expected to guide a Jewish Soldier through Hannukah, or a Muslim through Ramadan. Even a Wiccan through... well, I don't know enough about Wiccans to know their ministerial needs, but I'm informed that they are there.
Regulations don't prohibit a Chaplain mentioning "Jesus". It's just discouraged where the audience (say, for example, a mass formation) may be present. When a Chaplain leads a prayer for a Company preparing to deploy, she must remember her duty at that moment is to ALL of the Servicemembers present, not just the Christians in the crowd.
Chaplains are not at all restricted in how they may lead the services for their respective faiths.
Chaplains have difficult roles. They must cover such a wide religious landscape, AND even minister to those who have no religion at all. They provide counseling services, and are often a critical relief valve for those who serve. And most importantly, they do all of this in combat zones where they are un-armed.
Perhaps this Chaplain should realize that in a day and age where people are seeking to eliminate any tie between the church (particularly those wanting to say "Jesus", sir...) and state (as in "United States", i.e. issuer of a paycheck), perhaps it's not best to draw attention to a situation where we have government paid, trained, and endorsed preachers who quite often have captive audiences.
When shining a light, remember the light makes it easier for the enemy to find you, before you see them.
It seems there's a Navy Chaplain, LT Gordon Klingenschmitt, who's having a hunger strike in front of the White House. He's protesting that he's discouraged from praying in Jesus' name.
With due respect to the Chaplain, I believe he's misunderstood the balance between his duties as a Chaplain and his belief preferences.
Chaplains serve a unique role in the military. They exist to minister to all members of the service, irregardless of a Servicemember's choice of religion, or even choice of non-religion. Chaplains are schooled in the requirements of over 170 belief systems. Whatever their core, or originating faith, they're expected to serve all others. He may be Southern Baptist, for example, but he'll be expected to guide a Jewish Soldier through Hannukah, or a Muslim through Ramadan. Even a Wiccan through... well, I don't know enough about Wiccans to know their ministerial needs, but I'm informed that they are there.
Regulations don't prohibit a Chaplain mentioning "Jesus". It's just discouraged where the audience (say, for example, a mass formation) may be present. When a Chaplain leads a prayer for a Company preparing to deploy, she must remember her duty at that moment is to ALL of the Servicemembers present, not just the Christians in the crowd.
Chaplains are not at all restricted in how they may lead the services for their respective faiths.
Chaplains have difficult roles. They must cover such a wide religious landscape, AND even minister to those who have no religion at all. They provide counseling services, and are often a critical relief valve for those who serve. And most importantly, they do all of this in combat zones where they are un-armed.
Perhaps this Chaplain should realize that in a day and age where people are seeking to eliminate any tie between the church (particularly those wanting to say "Jesus", sir...) and state (as in "United States", i.e. issuer of a paycheck), perhaps it's not best to draw attention to a situation where we have government paid, trained, and endorsed preachers who quite often have captive audiences.
When shining a light, remember the light makes it easier for the enemy to find you, before you see them.
20 December 2005
Hair Today...
It finally reached that point... Ellicia's hair had fallen out to the point where... well, the description I can best use is that she was beginning to look as if she'd escaped from a nuclear accident.
So, with it now irritating her, we got the clippers out and... started shearing.
Of course, the clippers can only cut so close. So, finally, we added some shaving cream and then took a razor and removed the last traces...
She's as smooth as can be. And beautiful. Her smile lightens her face and shines from her eyes.
So, with it now irritating her, we got the clippers out and... started shearing.
Of course, the clippers can only cut so close. So, finally, we added some shaving cream and then took a razor and removed the last traces...
She's as smooth as can be. And beautiful. Her smile lightens her face and shines from her eyes.
19 December 2005
On A Lighter Note:
Just because I love Monty Python, I took this little quiz...
What Monty Python Character are you?
Running away? You yellow . . .
Take this quiz!
Quizilla |
Join
| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code
What Monty Python Character are you?
Running away? You yellow . . .
Take this quiz!
Quizilla |
Join
| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code
18 December 2005
Bear
Last week Ellicia received a special present from PJ. It's a beautiful, plus, PINK teddy bear.
It's been named Crabby Patty.
Crabby for the Zodiac sign of Cancer.
Patty just because Crabby by itself didn't seem right. And, so what if everyone thinks it's a Spongebob reference. It fits, because it comes back to Mr. Crabs!
Picture coming when technology is working again.
PJ - Ellicia LOVES it and it really lifted her spirits.
It's been named Crabby Patty.
Crabby for the Zodiac sign of Cancer.
Patty just because Crabby by itself didn't seem right. And, so what if everyone thinks it's a Spongebob reference. It fits, because it comes back to Mr. Crabs!
Picture coming when technology is working again.
PJ - Ellicia LOVES it and it really lifted her spirits.
200 Posts
What better way to note a landmark than with... another post?
As of now, there have been 200 posts by me. There have been SEVERAL hundred comments by all of you (not bad considering some of the challenging words used by the spam blocker).
There have been over 9,000 visits to this site in 9 months. Very flattering.
4 of you subscribe via RSS feeds.
Boosting my ego a bit, I'm up to #20 in the Top 100 of all Military blogs.
There has been an enormous outpouring of support, both pre-cancer (when I was just another Soldier supporting the Storm in Afghanistan) to now when I'm just a lucky guy who's helping his wife weather her storm.
So many of you have sent wonderful e-mails, real mail, and even packages (and some of you have been even supremely generous via PayPal.)
I continue to be amazed at the surefire generosity of those of you who support the troops. So many times, I was dismayed when some Joe would receive a package and be dismissive of its contents. While handling the mail, I often had the opportunity to note that while the contents of care packages may not have been of the highest monetary value (nor did it NEED to be), the amount spent on postage was perhaps best indicative of the support. For even when an Angel may send a box which may have only cost $5 at the local Wallyworld, it may have cost $15 to mail it. And for those of you who truly approach supporting the troops as an addictive hobby (you know who you are, and we LOVE you), I would see boxes with postage approaching $100.
There are those who counter-protest, those who visit injured troops, those who support families who've offered the supreme sacrifice, and those who write to a troop who's lonely and without a support network of his own.
It is, perhaps, in all of you that the truest nature of "Support Our Troops" is found. While likely never to be reported, there have surely been countless message drives, crafting sprees, rallies, and of course, racks and racks of cookies baked to remind us troops that what we see on TV is not reality and to not always believe what we read in the newspaper.
As I've said in other posts, I never foresaw what this blog would become, nor the apparent following it has gathered... I certainly never knew of the many wonderful people I would meet, even if not face to face. Agnieszka, Barb, Blackfive (I'm trying to get that form for you), CaliValleyGirl, Edward, GunnNutt, Holly Aho, Homefront Six, Household 6, Jen, Jenny, Mary Ann, Mary*Ann, NectarMaiden, Pat in NC, PJ, stormchaser, Tom Miller, Amy, Kayren, and of course, Anonymous.
Thank you... All.
As of now, there have been 200 posts by me. There have been SEVERAL hundred comments by all of you (not bad considering some of the challenging words used by the spam blocker).
There have been over 9,000 visits to this site in 9 months. Very flattering.
4 of you subscribe via RSS feeds.
Boosting my ego a bit, I'm up to #20 in the Top 100 of all Military blogs.
There has been an enormous outpouring of support, both pre-cancer (when I was just another Soldier supporting the Storm in Afghanistan) to now when I'm just a lucky guy who's helping his wife weather her storm.
So many of you have sent wonderful e-mails, real mail, and even packages (and some of you have been even supremely generous via PayPal.)
I continue to be amazed at the surefire generosity of those of you who support the troops. So many times, I was dismayed when some Joe would receive a package and be dismissive of its contents. While handling the mail, I often had the opportunity to note that while the contents of care packages may not have been of the highest monetary value (nor did it NEED to be), the amount spent on postage was perhaps best indicative of the support. For even when an Angel may send a box which may have only cost $5 at the local Wallyworld, it may have cost $15 to mail it. And for those of you who truly approach supporting the troops as an addictive hobby (you know who you are, and we LOVE you), I would see boxes with postage approaching $100.
There are those who counter-protest, those who visit injured troops, those who support families who've offered the supreme sacrifice, and those who write to a troop who's lonely and without a support network of his own.
It is, perhaps, in all of you that the truest nature of "Support Our Troops" is found. While likely never to be reported, there have surely been countless message drives, crafting sprees, rallies, and of course, racks and racks of cookies baked to remind us troops that what we see on TV is not reality and to not always believe what we read in the newspaper.
As I've said in other posts, I never foresaw what this blog would become, nor the apparent following it has gathered... I certainly never knew of the many wonderful people I would meet, even if not face to face. Agnieszka, Barb, Blackfive (I'm trying to get that form for you), CaliValleyGirl, Edward, GunnNutt, Holly Aho, Homefront Six, Household 6, Jen, Jenny, Mary Ann, Mary*Ann, NectarMaiden, Pat in NC, PJ, stormchaser, Tom Miller, Amy, Kayren, and of course, Anonymous.
Thank you... All.
New Normal
Well, life is slowly returning to normal.
We're back to the doctor visit routine...
Everyone's under one roof now...
T is pulling himself up and standing as long as he's holding on to something.
Should be able to turn in old apartment on Monday.
E is nearly bald.
M is extending the Terrible Two's for another season as the Terrible Three's.
It's snowing!
Haven't quite gotten the new place ready to put up Christmas yet, but hope to have Christmas decorations up no later than Valentine's Day.
While setting stuff up, I made a dumb mistake in deleting my Internet configuration. Now have to get a new password from the German phone system. Expecting a delay of 1-2 weeks.
Tired.
Exhausted.
Want a vacation already! hahaha
Trying to keep money straight... reducing income due to my no longer being deployed (one of the TRUE benefits of being deployed is a lot of extra $$$ each month). Sadly, the Army is backdating it to the day I came home (which is to be expected, of course, since that's when I was no longer deployed) but hasn't started the paperwork till now. This should be nice and messy, per Army standards. Throw in all the extra driving and AAFES gas-gouging prices... and well, it's getting pricey. But, hanging in there... Is what savings are for.
Pretty proud of T... watching him pull-up on things. *I* was the first object he pulled up on. He was sitting in my lap, and I held my arm straight out. He reached up, grabbed it, and stood up. All by hisself!
He's also advancing to developing his speaking skills. While no orator, yet, he IS getting ready. We should get a first word sometime in the next few months.
K is now out of school for her Christmas break.
M is loving her kindergarten, which is a good thing, cause she's becoming quite the handful at home! Ah, to think I once spoke of wanting SIX...
Cats have been good... even the mad-peer (pronounced PEE-er)himself, Scanner, has not decided to christen the new place. We're all very thankful.
Enjoying the snow. Gives everything a nice look...
(To all who e-mail, I am TRYING to answer... since I deleted my net access, I only access when I grab the laptop and find someplace where I can leech... please bear with me.)
:)
We're back to the doctor visit routine...
Everyone's under one roof now...
T is pulling himself up and standing as long as he's holding on to something.
Should be able to turn in old apartment on Monday.
E is nearly bald.
M is extending the Terrible Two's for another season as the Terrible Three's.
It's snowing!
Haven't quite gotten the new place ready to put up Christmas yet, but hope to have Christmas decorations up no later than Valentine's Day.
While setting stuff up, I made a dumb mistake in deleting my Internet configuration. Now have to get a new password from the German phone system. Expecting a delay of 1-2 weeks.
Tired.
Exhausted.
Want a vacation already! hahaha
Trying to keep money straight... reducing income due to my no longer being deployed (one of the TRUE benefits of being deployed is a lot of extra $$$ each month). Sadly, the Army is backdating it to the day I came home (which is to be expected, of course, since that's when I was no longer deployed) but hasn't started the paperwork till now. This should be nice and messy, per Army standards. Throw in all the extra driving and AAFES gas-gouging prices... and well, it's getting pricey. But, hanging in there... Is what savings are for.
Pretty proud of T... watching him pull-up on things. *I* was the first object he pulled up on. He was sitting in my lap, and I held my arm straight out. He reached up, grabbed it, and stood up. All by hisself!
He's also advancing to developing his speaking skills. While no orator, yet, he IS getting ready. We should get a first word sometime in the next few months.
K is now out of school for her Christmas break.
M is loving her kindergarten, which is a good thing, cause she's becoming quite the handful at home! Ah, to think I once spoke of wanting SIX...
Cats have been good... even the mad-peer (pronounced PEE-er)himself, Scanner, has not decided to christen the new place. We're all very thankful.
Enjoying the snow. Gives everything a nice look...
(To all who e-mail, I am TRYING to answer... since I deleted my net access, I only access when I grab the laptop and find someplace where I can leech... please bear with me.)
:)
15 December 2005
She's Home
Ellicia is home.
I'll have more later. But, right now, just truly exhausted... And sleep is calling.
But, she is home.
It is so good to see her sitting in the apartment. :)
Thank you all for your prayers and well-wishes... (but, let's not stop now!)
I'll have more later. But, right now, just truly exhausted... And sleep is calling.
But, she is home.
It is so good to see her sitting in the apartment. :)
Thank you all for your prayers and well-wishes... (but, let's not stop now!)
I Get to Stay
Found out today that we'll get to stay in Germany just a bit longer. My request for an extension has been approved. We're now going to stay until early 2009! Yippee!
13 December 2005
Leggo My Ego
Maybe it's ego... ok, so it's definitely an ego thing. Anyway, we're currently ranked at #50 in the Top 100 Milblogs at www.milblogging.com.
How much higher can we go?
Well, to break into the Top 20, it looks like I need a total of 14 votes... So, let's get out there and VOTE (it's not just for Iraqis and Afghans!)...
Register with the site (nothing bad happens to your Inbox and you don't get signed up for a bunch of stuff (make sure to un-check the subscription box if you don't want a newsletter), and then add A Storm In Afghanistan to your favorites (not the favorites for your Internet Explorer - we know you already have us there!).
Once you're registered, find my blog in the Top 100. Then, click on A Storm In Afghanistan.
At the bottom of the profile is a button to Add to Favorites. Click on that button to VOTE for A Storm In Afghanistan!
And when done, you won't even have any stains on your fingers... well, unless you've been eating a jelly doughnut while typing.
Thank you.
Now, leggo my ego...
How much higher can we go?
Well, to break into the Top 20, it looks like I need a total of 14 votes... So, let's get out there and VOTE (it's not just for Iraqis and Afghans!)...
Register with the site (nothing bad happens to your Inbox and you don't get signed up for a bunch of stuff (make sure to un-check the subscription box if you don't want a newsletter), and then add A Storm In Afghanistan to your favorites (not the favorites for your Internet Explorer - we know you already have us there!).
Once you're registered, find my blog in the Top 100. Then, click on A Storm In Afghanistan.
At the bottom of the profile is a button to Add to Favorites. Click on that button to VOTE for A Storm In Afghanistan!And when done, you won't even have any stains on your fingers... well, unless you've been eating a jelly doughnut while typing.
Thank you.
Now, leggo my ego...
E Update
What a joy to walk in to her room today! She was sitting up, wearing glasses, and smiling.
Wow.
I took her a can of soup (Campbell's Healthy Meal Chicken Noodle)and she had about half.
I saw she'd even been reading a little.
What a joy...
And then, it all came back. The headaches, the nausea, and yes, even the chicken noodle soup. I had to leave minutes after she'd vomited because I was out of time (as it was, I was still late picking M up from school).
These weekday schedules are rough. I feel like I barely get any time to see E, and I KNOW she wants more. But with the drive taking an hour+ each direction (I've driven over 700 kilometers (um, about 437 miles) in the last four days just for visits), and the schedules of the kids, plus other appointments, and contractors for the apartments, and... and... and...
It's just tiring. And it pains me to see her face as I leave. I HATE this.
Lump is smaller. Good news. Hair is disappearing (noticing it in the lesser known spots right now... like arm, chin, toes, etc.).
I hope to bring her home soon.
Going to go to bed now. A bit depressed. I miss my wife. I miss my kids. And I'm not even deployed.
I don't know what else I can do for E... :( :( :(
Wow.
I took her a can of soup (Campbell's Healthy Meal Chicken Noodle)and she had about half.
I saw she'd even been reading a little.
What a joy...
And then, it all came back. The headaches, the nausea, and yes, even the chicken noodle soup. I had to leave minutes after she'd vomited because I was out of time (as it was, I was still late picking M up from school).
These weekday schedules are rough. I feel like I barely get any time to see E, and I KNOW she wants more. But with the drive taking an hour+ each direction (I've driven over 700 kilometers (um, about 437 miles) in the last four days just for visits), and the schedules of the kids, plus other appointments, and contractors for the apartments, and... and... and...
It's just tiring. And it pains me to see her face as I leave. I HATE this.
Lump is smaller. Good news. Hair is disappearing (noticing it in the lesser known spots right now... like arm, chin, toes, etc.).
I hope to bring her home soon.
Going to go to bed now. A bit depressed. I miss my wife. I miss my kids. And I'm not even deployed.
I don't know what else I can do for E... :( :( :(
12 December 2005
Notes of Thanks
PJ Degross (nice card)
Mary Ann (Box of Goodies)
FRG (Twice a week dinner deliveries)
The Butlers (Babysitters extraordinaire)
The Unit (Amazing... just amazing.)
Holly Aho (for the nice plugs on her blog)
All of you Praying (um... for the prayers, of course)
Ellicia (for being worth the drive)
Mary Ann (Box of Goodies)
FRG (Twice a week dinner deliveries)
The Butlers (Babysitters extraordinaire)
The Unit (Amazing... just amazing.)
Holly Aho (for the nice plugs on her blog)
All of you Praying (um... for the prayers, of course)
Ellicia (for being worth the drive)
And at home?
Tired. Strangely enough, after getting a full night's sleep. Feel a bit overwhelmed, and not just from the tasks stacking up, but...
Well-meaning individuals (this does NOT include anyone sending e-mails).
Any and all trips anywhere on post must now include extra time factored in for the inevitable, "How is she?" "What can we do?" "Need anything?" "Oh my God! She's the ONE???"
Between needing to continuously update (or "brief") the:
CO
1SG
Platoon Sergeant
FRG
Chaplain
Clinic Doc
Patient Liasion
(that's all on a daily basis)
There's also of course friends, family, newly discovered supporters, and of course, perfect strangers.
Levels of information include:
Full detail (usually available in blog format)
Short detail (She's better, she's worse, partly cloudy, etc.)
I don't know you from Adam (Oh, she's fine... we're just doing the best we can. Thanks for asking.)
It is interesting to be near the top of the base gossip food chain, and have no illicit activity to accompany it. No, my truck wasn't parked overnight at the wrong house. But, we ARE all the talk of the base. Just an interesting position to be in.
Still want to get Ellicia a T-shirt which reads: "Yes, I'm the one with the cancer." Think it'd be a hoot.
Smile!
Well-meaning individuals (this does NOT include anyone sending e-mails).
Any and all trips anywhere on post must now include extra time factored in for the inevitable, "How is she?" "What can we do?" "Need anything?" "Oh my God! She's the ONE???"
Between needing to continuously update (or "brief") the:
CO
1SG
Platoon Sergeant
FRG
Chaplain
Clinic Doc
Patient Liasion
(that's all on a daily basis)
There's also of course friends, family, newly discovered supporters, and of course, perfect strangers.
Levels of information include:
Full detail (usually available in blog format)
Short detail (She's better, she's worse, partly cloudy, etc.)
I don't know you from Adam (Oh, she's fine... we're just doing the best we can. Thanks for asking.)
It is interesting to be near the top of the base gossip food chain, and have no illicit activity to accompany it. No, my truck wasn't parked overnight at the wrong house. But, we ARE all the talk of the base. Just an interesting position to be in.
Still want to get Ellicia a T-shirt which reads: "Yes, I'm the one with the cancer." Think it'd be a hoot.
Smile!
Un-Masked!
Ellicia has improved.
Ok, ok, you wouldn't know this from talking to her. But, she has! Her White Blood Cell count is up to 1500 (a marked improvement from the dangerously low hundreds before). This means that we no longer need to be masked, gowned, gloved, and capped just to be in the same room with her. However, I am still taking those precautions as I have some sniffles, and don't wish to challenge her further.
Docs say that if she continues to improve, she may be home by Friday.
She still has nausea, dizziness, pains, and gets her nutrition via McIV bag, but... it's an improvement.
Today was such a short visit... felt horribly guilty. She has nothing to do (nor the desire to, really, but that's beside the point) and I felt SO horrible. But, the rest of the world was DEMANDING attention.
Talked to the doc today, with the patient liasion providing any needed translation assistance (none needed). Some vital questions answered include:
Can Ellicia Continue Her Chemo?
Yes. By all means.
What precautions need to be taken considering home includes 3 kids, 2 cats, 1 hubby, and approximately 8,654,283,512 germs?
During second week after chemo, Ellicia will wear a mask 24/7 for a solid week.
What else can we do to avoid future hospital visits?
We've learned that her body (the bone marrow) just cannot keep up with the chemo. Therefore, some boosting injections will be recommended prior to each treatment as a prophylactic.
Other news?
Lump is smaller. Perhaps that's good news in the lungs, as well?
Her first clump of hair passed through her fingers. She smiled.
Ok, ok, you wouldn't know this from talking to her. But, she has! Her White Blood Cell count is up to 1500 (a marked improvement from the dangerously low hundreds before). This means that we no longer need to be masked, gowned, gloved, and capped just to be in the same room with her. However, I am still taking those precautions as I have some sniffles, and don't wish to challenge her further.
Docs say that if she continues to improve, she may be home by Friday.
She still has nausea, dizziness, pains, and gets her nutrition via McIV bag, but... it's an improvement.
Today was such a short visit... felt horribly guilty. She has nothing to do (nor the desire to, really, but that's beside the point) and I felt SO horrible. But, the rest of the world was DEMANDING attention.
Talked to the doc today, with the patient liasion providing any needed translation assistance (none needed). Some vital questions answered include:
Can Ellicia Continue Her Chemo?
Yes. By all means.
What precautions need to be taken considering home includes 3 kids, 2 cats, 1 hubby, and approximately 8,654,283,512 germs?
During second week after chemo, Ellicia will wear a mask 24/7 for a solid week.
What else can we do to avoid future hospital visits?
We've learned that her body (the bone marrow) just cannot keep up with the chemo. Therefore, some boosting injections will be recommended prior to each treatment as a prophylactic.
Other news?
Lump is smaller. Perhaps that's good news in the lungs, as well?
Her first clump of hair passed through her fingers. She smiled.
Seen in the Base Clinic
While scheduling appointments this morning, I noticed someone at hung a sign with this on it:
"All wars are wars among thieves who are too cowardly to fight and who therefore induce the young manhood to do the fighting for them."
--Emma Goldman
(Who is Emma Goldman? She was an anarchist, amongst other bright spots on her resume.
Anyway, such a wonderful thing to see in our clinic. I hope I have some free time coming up to point it out.
I'm sure those in charge would like it removed before those in charge of them notice it and choose to remind them of the UCMJ implications of such statements which could easily be interpreted as implying that the Commander-in-Chief is a thief and coward.
Just started the day on such a bright note.
"All wars are wars among thieves who are too cowardly to fight and who therefore induce the young manhood to do the fighting for them."
--Emma Goldman
(Who is Emma Goldman? She was an anarchist, amongst other bright spots on her resume.
Anyway, such a wonderful thing to see in our clinic. I hope I have some free time coming up to point it out.
I'm sure those in charge would like it removed before those in charge of them notice it and choose to remind them of the UCMJ implications of such statements which could easily be interpreted as implying that the Commander-in-Chief is a thief and coward.
Just started the day on such a bright note.
Address
Well, judging by the comments, y'all would like an address.
So, here it is:
Ellicia Stanley
CMR 416 Box 1441
APO, AE 09140
(Now, for those of you who aren't fans, I refer you to USPS Guide to Mailing. You'll note that about 2/3's down, it lists prohibited items. So, no ammunition or explosive devices.
I'm sure that Ellicia will appreciate anything sent that cheers her up, and you all are sweet for thinking of her.
So, here it is:
Ellicia Stanley
CMR 416 Box 1441
APO, AE 09140
(Now, for those of you who aren't fans, I refer you to USPS Guide to Mailing. You'll note that about 2/3's down, it lists prohibited items. So, no ammunition or explosive devices.
I'm sure that Ellicia will appreciate anything sent that cheers her up, and you all are sweet for thinking of her.
11 December 2005
Day 2... or is it 3?
Spent yesterday with Ellicia at the hospital. It's difficult. Full isolation treatment - protective clothes, mask, gloves, cap...
She can't keep anything down, not for a lack of trying. Fever has subsided (good news?), but headache, nausea, and dizziness are still there. White Blood Cell count is still in the low hundreds (i.e. not really there at all).
She's tired, but lucid. Read her a card sent by PJ (from Web of Support). She liked it.
Hope to pick up kids tonight. Stayed up until 0600 last night working on house. HAVE to eliminate boxes, if just to make it safe for the kids to be there.
(Took a peek at Ellicia's email account, see if anything important in there... her ex sent a blustery e-mail about how Kira had missed a webcam appointment and that she, meaning Ellicia, had better have a good excuse! Hmm, I sure hope we can think of one.)
I'm about to be off to the hospital again. Slept for 4 hours last night... well, 3 and a half, really. But, am semi-rested. Hoping to hear good news.
Thank you for all of well-wishes and support.
She can't keep anything down, not for a lack of trying. Fever has subsided (good news?), but headache, nausea, and dizziness are still there. White Blood Cell count is still in the low hundreds (i.e. not really there at all).
She's tired, but lucid. Read her a card sent by PJ (from Web of Support). She liked it.
Hope to pick up kids tonight. Stayed up until 0600 last night working on house. HAVE to eliminate boxes, if just to make it safe for the kids to be there.
(Took a peek at Ellicia's email account, see if anything important in there... her ex sent a blustery e-mail about how Kira had missed a webcam appointment and that she, meaning Ellicia, had better have a good excuse! Hmm, I sure hope we can think of one.)
I'm about to be off to the hospital again. Slept for 4 hours last night... well, 3 and a half, really. But, am semi-rested. Hoping to hear good news.
Thank you for all of well-wishes and support.
10 December 2005
Hospital
Ellicia is in the hospital. She is currently stable, but still fighting. Here’s the story:
Our moving began on Thursday. That afternoon, Ellicia went from up and about and busy to crashing and curling up on the sofa, very quickly. She stayed down except for trips to the bathroom to vomit.
I checked on her throughout the evening, and she just seemed a bit ill. Nothing serious.
When I finally went to bed (unpacking all night what I could), I touched her forehead, and immediately hopped right back out of bed. She was burning up. Thermometer said 103.7. Started pushing fluids, and called for an ambulance. [LONG story skipped here, I’ll save it for later.]
She went to the local hospital, and was admitted. They began giving her IV fluids, and tried to contain the fever. They placed her in isolation due to the fact that her white blood cell count (Immune System Gauge) was EXTREMELY low. No one allowed in without masks, disinfection, etc. She was allowed no drink, no food, no movement… everything through IV.
The doctor made the decision that she should be transferred as she needed more care than the local hospital could provide. She has been transferred to the University Hospital in Erlangen (about an hour – hour and a half – from here). Initially, they took her to the Intensive Care Unit of the Neurology department to check for meningitis. She was given CT scans, X-rays, spinal taps, plus much more, and placed into an isolation room (even MORE sterile and strict than previously). She doesn’t have any of the major problems.
She was then transferred to the Women’s clinic which handles gynecology. Yes, I know… that’s not an issue for us right now. However, in Germany, the gynecologists handle more than just “down there”. They also care for the breasts, and when applicable, breast cancer. These are the docs for her.
She has her own private room, sterilized, masks, etc. Guarding against future infection. When I left her last night, her fever was still dangerously high. I’m on my way to see her again.
She has not lost consciousness. She is stable. She is coherent. She is very weak. The doctors are concerned, but mostly want to get the fever down. Language is not a barrier here as all the docs speak fluent English.
Why did I leave her? Had to. Our children are staying with others, cats are in the old apartment – need food / water, and in our new apartment, almost everything we own is in boxes. I had to come back to at least get enough going to support the children for another day or so (clothes, diapers, baby food, etc.)
Our moving began on Thursday. That afternoon, Ellicia went from up and about and busy to crashing and curling up on the sofa, very quickly. She stayed down except for trips to the bathroom to vomit.
I checked on her throughout the evening, and she just seemed a bit ill. Nothing serious.
When I finally went to bed (unpacking all night what I could), I touched her forehead, and immediately hopped right back out of bed. She was burning up. Thermometer said 103.7. Started pushing fluids, and called for an ambulance. [LONG story skipped here, I’ll save it for later.]
She went to the local hospital, and was admitted. They began giving her IV fluids, and tried to contain the fever. They placed her in isolation due to the fact that her white blood cell count (Immune System Gauge) was EXTREMELY low. No one allowed in without masks, disinfection, etc. She was allowed no drink, no food, no movement… everything through IV.
The doctor made the decision that she should be transferred as she needed more care than the local hospital could provide. She has been transferred to the University Hospital in Erlangen (about an hour – hour and a half – from here). Initially, they took her to the Intensive Care Unit of the Neurology department to check for meningitis. She was given CT scans, X-rays, spinal taps, plus much more, and placed into an isolation room (even MORE sterile and strict than previously). She doesn’t have any of the major problems.
She was then transferred to the Women’s clinic which handles gynecology. Yes, I know… that’s not an issue for us right now. However, in Germany, the gynecologists handle more than just “down there”. They also care for the breasts, and when applicable, breast cancer. These are the docs for her.
She has her own private room, sterilized, masks, etc. Guarding against future infection. When I left her last night, her fever was still dangerously high. I’m on my way to see her again.
She has not lost consciousness. She is stable. She is coherent. She is very weak. The doctors are concerned, but mostly want to get the fever down. Language is not a barrier here as all the docs speak fluent English.
Why did I leave her? Had to. Our children are staying with others, cats are in the old apartment – need food / water, and in our new apartment, almost everything we own is in boxes. I had to come back to at least get enough going to support the children for another day or so (clothes, diapers, baby food, etc.)
07 December 2005
Loss of a Great Man
Carroll Campbell, former Governor of the State of South Carolina, died on the morning of 7 December 2005.
It is a loss, as he was widely recognized as both a popular and effective Governor.
I've always felt a connection to him, partly because of his success as a Governor, but mostly out of a touching gesture from him one year.
He and I attended the same high school,The McCallie School. I remember getting cards from him, and it certainly seemed special and made an impression at the time.
Gov. Campbell had been suffering from Alzheimer's for the past six years. A terrible disease, he was mercifully spared the final effects.
Go in peace, Governor... you are missed.
It is a loss, as he was widely recognized as both a popular and effective Governor.
I've always felt a connection to him, partly because of his success as a Governor, but mostly out of a touching gesture from him one year.
He and I attended the same high school,The McCallie School. I remember getting cards from him, and it certainly seemed special and made an impression at the time.
Gov. Campbell had been suffering from Alzheimer's for the past six years. A terrible disease, he was mercifully spared the final effects.
Go in peace, Governor... you are missed.
Remembering Our Vets - 2
With a hattip to Miss Birdlegs, I encourage ALL of you to listen and watch this music video of Before You Go.
It's not the best song in the world, but it is touching and sweet. Have your speakers on, if possible.
Thank you.
It's not the best song in the world, but it is touching and sweet. Have your speakers on, if possible.
Thank you.
7 December
Today is 7 December. Pearl Harbor Day. I hope you remember. As Americans, we tend to have tragically short memories, as evidenced by some already forgetting 11 September.
Let's pause to reflect and remember the other time in recent history (there are still survivors walking and talking amongst us) the US was viciously attacked. It was, until 11 September, the worst attack ever suffered by the US. On that day, over 2,100 American servicepersons died in the space of a few hours (can you imagine today's media back then? Decrying the loss of life and how we would need to appease the Japanese freedom fighters?).
Every US Navy ship pauses to remember when entering Pearl Harbor.
Perhaps, today, we can pause and remember, too.
06 December 2005
Support the Troops
Yesterday, Two Babes and a Brain broke a story that will warm you to your very core.As you know, Soldiers get wounded in war. If you're seriously wounded, you often end up at Landstuhl (in Germany). If you're gravely wounded, you'll be in Walter Reed.
Soldiers there get a lot of support. Yes, there are the protests held outside its gates, but people DO support the troops.
And here they report on the touching Get Well Card that was sent to a Soldier at Walter Reed.
What is WRONG with people? We have third grade teachers assigning writing anti-war letters as homework, people protesting Soldiers' funerals, and now this.
Makes me SICK.
Another One...
Yet another statement from John Kerry, who has supported troops as far back as Vietnam, has come out with more support of our troops. Apparently, even though troops are meticulously taught the Rules of Engagement (there being no such thing for the other side), and even though troops are engaged in combat and fighting a war, he accuses them of "...terrorizing kids and children...".
Nice.
I have more I'd like to write, but... in truth, such comments by people make me nauseuous.
04 December 2005
Soldier Gifts for Christmas
It's getting to be the time for the holidays... and yes, there's Hannukah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Ramadan (already passed), "Two Week Break from School", and "Excuse to go massively in debt to give presents no one wants".
But, most of us think of Christmas.
Many of you have been sending boxes upon boxes of wonderful treats, supplies, books, dvds, snacks, and other assorted goodies.
Don't know what to get for Christmas?
What DO you send to a Soldier downrange?
Or an injured one in Landstuhl or Walter Reed or elsewhere?
Well, check out this site (note: rare AAFES plug).
This gives the chance to send AAFES gift certificates to Soldiers all over the world, and if you have no specific Soldier in mind, you can gift to the Armed Forces Relief Societies or even the American Red Cross.
Soldiers can use these in PXs and BXs all over the globe. Soldiers families can use them as well. An excellent opportunity and something that will certainly be valued by the troops.
And something for families...
You can also give certificates for Commissaries. (Commissaries are the ubiquitous grocery store for troops and their families. Often, at overseas locations, these are the only place they have to get familiar foods at US prices.) The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is offering the chance to "Give the Gift of Groceries".
Another worthwhile program.
But, most of us think of Christmas.
Many of you have been sending boxes upon boxes of wonderful treats, supplies, books, dvds, snacks, and other assorted goodies.
Don't know what to get for Christmas?
What DO you send to a Soldier downrange?
Or an injured one in Landstuhl or Walter Reed or elsewhere?
Well, check out this site (note: rare AAFES plug).
This gives the chance to send AAFES gift certificates to Soldiers all over the world, and if you have no specific Soldier in mind, you can gift to the Armed Forces Relief Societies or even the American Red Cross.
Soldiers can use these in PXs and BXs all over the globe. Soldiers families can use them as well. An excellent opportunity and something that will certainly be valued by the troops.
And something for families...
You can also give certificates for Commissaries. (Commissaries are the ubiquitous grocery store for troops and their families. Often, at overseas locations, these are the only place they have to get familiar foods at US prices.) The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is offering the chance to "Give the Gift of Groceries".
Another worthwhile program.
8,000+
Wow.
We've topped 8,000 visits. Not bad for a blogger who's not even IN Afghanistan anymore!
I'm honored and humbled that you all take time out of your busy days to visit my lil' ol' corner of the world.
Thank you.
We've topped 8,000 visits. Not bad for a blogger who's not even IN Afghanistan anymore!
I'm honored and humbled that you all take time out of your busy days to visit my lil' ol' corner of the world.
Thank you.
Feeling Guilty
I have GOT to find a way to beat this.
Have been feeling very guilty and depressed lately. Now, before anyone psychoanalyzes me through e-mail, please don't...
Anyway, what's been getting me down is simple: I'm home, and the unit isn't. It feels a lot like I felt back in March when the unit deployed without me.
I'm getting the priviledge of spending Thanksgiving and Christmas with the family - easily the two hardest holidays to spend apart. I have celebrated one birthday I'd have missed and will get to do another. I will likely get to see Thomas pull himself up any moment now.
And it all feels... unearned. I feel tremendously guilty. They're not home yet (and don't think my antennae didn't twitch when I heard of two more Storm choppers down) and I am.
Lucky me.
Don't get me wrong, I AM happy to be here. My wife and kids ARE my mission now. Just feel really guilty. Should be there.
Have been feeling very guilty and depressed lately. Now, before anyone psychoanalyzes me through e-mail, please don't...
Anyway, what's been getting me down is simple: I'm home, and the unit isn't. It feels a lot like I felt back in March when the unit deployed without me.
I'm getting the priviledge of spending Thanksgiving and Christmas with the family - easily the two hardest holidays to spend apart. I have celebrated one birthday I'd have missed and will get to do another. I will likely get to see Thomas pull himself up any moment now.
And it all feels... unearned. I feel tremendously guilty. They're not home yet (and don't think my antennae didn't twitch when I heard of two more Storm choppers down) and I am.
Lucky me.
Don't get me wrong, I AM happy to be here. My wife and kids ARE my mission now. Just feel really guilty. Should be there.
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