The Asterisk

The Asterisk

There was one particular flower arrangement at the funeral which was distinctive, and unusual. Had a few comments.

It was from me.

I had it specially done for Ellicia. And, at the end, when they placed the casket in the grave, I instructed that it be placed on top of the casket before the dirt was filled in. All other flowers were placed on the ground after the grave was redressed.

So, what was this arrangement?

Well, when ellicia and I first started what would become our relationship, it was through internet chat.

Some of you may know that, before Yahoo added all of the smileys and such, you could often show a kiss by:

*

Later on, when we were together, perhaps in public, or stressed, or just having a moment, we would trace the asterisk on the hand of the other. I can recall quite a few times when I might be stressed, and I'd feel her finger gently tracing the asterisk. When she was in the hospital, I'd trace it to her.

And, as she was dying and at her death, I traced it.

During the visitation, and when it was time to close the casket, I caught myself standing there, talking to others, holding her hand, tracing the asterisk.

The last time I touched the casket, I poured some dirt on the casket, and traced the asterisk in it.

It's even drawn on her head in magic marker (I'll explain in another post).

So, it was something special.

And the flowers?

The Memorial Video

For the funeral visitation, I had a video made. I knew that Ellicia's appearance in the coffin would be a shock, especially for people who'd not seen her in awhile.

I'd had six of the pictures blown up to poster size and placed around the room, to help balance and prepare for the coffin at the far end.

And on the exact opposite end as the coffin, there was a large tv playing the dvd of this video:

Obituaries: Updated

Previously, I'd posted the obituary list here. Well, "Stars & Stripes" finally printed E's obituary.

It's in the 14 January European Edition. It's page 36, in the Classifieds.

It's a tad late, but we wanted it in the "Stars & Stripes" since we'd spent so much time in Germany.

Readings at the Service

I'll fill in some more details later, but I want to get down the Bible verses that I had selected for the funeral service.

The service was Episcopalian, which is a fairly structured service. Of course, Ellicia and I must beg to be different. The way the service goes (like many churches), is that there's an Old Testament reading, a New Testament reading, and a Gospel reading.

Well, I had some verses in mind, and that were truly appropriate. Unfortunately, there were more verses than slots in the service. I inquired about doing extra readings, and they said, "Well, it's not normally done... in fact, can't recall it ever being done, but... sure."

So, here are the selections. I'm sure when you read them you'll recognize some of the reasons they were chosen. (All quotations are NIV version. You can click the link at the top or here for other versions.)

Isaiah 40:29-31

29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.

30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;

31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Revelation 7:13-17

13Then one of the elders asked me, "These in white robes—who are they, and where did they come from?"

14I answered, "Sir, you know."

And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15Therefore,
"they are before the throne of God
and serve him day and night in his temple;
and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them.
16Never again will they hunger;
never again will they thirst.
The sun will not beat upon them,
nor any scorching heat.
17For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd;
he will lead them to springs of living water.
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."

II Corinthians 4:16-5:7

16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 5
Our Heavenly Dwelling
1Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, 3because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 5Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

John 11:21-26

21"Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask."

23Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again."

24Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day."

25Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

Grave Marker Inscription

Today was my deadline for customizing Ellicia's grave marker.

The VA provides a free marker. Being a government issued marker, it's very simple and plain. It will have her name, date of birth, "the Dash", and date of death. And her relationship to me.

I have a choice of religious symbol (easy choice) and an inscription.

The inscription can be fifteen characters. That includes spaces, symbols, whatever. Imagine your standard government form with the fifteen boxes.

I've said it to others, I truly never want to hear anyone complain about writing a speech or a term paper... Until you've tried to sum up someone's life in fifteen characters... it's amazingly difficult.

They give you some examples:

"Beloved Wife"
"Beloved Mother"
"Loved By All"
"I Did It My Way" (for Sinatra fans)
"Unforgettable" (Nat King Cole is represented as well)
"Gone Fishing" (don't ask)
"Gone Home"
you get the idea

Ellicia was a beloved wife, mother, and daughter. Hmmm, can't fit all that in 15 spaces. Was truly stumped. Because, as much as we often say, "... well, it's not set in stone...", THIS would be.

And yesterday, it hit me. Hard. And I chewed it around some, and decided it'd work.

TREASURED LOVE

It works. On many levels.

Ellicia treasured love.
Ellicia WAS a treasured love.
Ellicia's love WAS treasured.
And so on.

Perfect.

A lifetime in fifteen characters.

Amazing Poem

This was sent to me:

When I thought I had your heart to keep forever.
(Forever)
Now I live with how it is, nothing lasts, never.
(Never)
I'm never in a place with too much time, try to leave my troubles far behind.
Everything I did, I did for you.
Now there's nothing left for me to do.
I'm never gonna fall in love again, the way I love you.

You know it's so damn hard letting go...

Standing here, holding my heart in my hands
Yes, I am...
Trying to live every day the best I can.
You know it's so damn hard letting go...of you.

Every day's a brand new start of a pain never ending.
(Never ending)
I can't erase this lonely heart that keeps on remembering.
(Remembering)
Every day I live, I live with you, and with all the things we'll never do.
Heaven holds a place for souls like mine.
Try to leave my troubled past behind.

You know it's so damn hard letting go...

Standing here, holding my heart in my hands
Yes, I am...
Trying to live every day the best I can.
You know it's so damn hard letting go (so damn hard letting go)
You know it's so damn hard letting go...of you.

Wow. Perfect. You can listen to it here.

Funeral

I've had a few requests for details on the funeral.

It's coming. Since this blog does serve as my diary, I want to ensure I get it right when I write it down...

So, soon...

I will say that it was an amazingly beautiful service. And we continue to be blessed...

Digital Comfort, Digital Memories

I introduced my mother-in-law to the blog today. She's known of it for some time, but she lacks her own computer (which had been frustrating when we lived so far away - Yahoo! Messenger is so nice long distance).

I brought her to the local public library. We sat down, and I told her... I would like to show you what the World thinks of your daughter.

Nice words and condolences are often easily expected from family and close friends, but... it's becoming clearer to me (as certain ones of you beat it into me) that Ellicia's story, courage, strength, and perseverance reached and touched one or two of you out there.

She saw the sixty-six page print-out of comments from the Pain, No More post. It was rolled up, tied with a bow, and placed in the casket with Ellicia.

But, she'd not read them. I had told her a synopsis of the wave of support, but still... she had not seen it.

As I write this, she is beside me... reading, remembering, and drawing comfort and strength.

Digital comfort, Digital memories, no less real.

Thank you, all of you...

People of Character

We've been blessed to come to know many people through our journey. I'd like to refer you to one, in particular, Mary*Ann.

I am humbled by how she has chosen to express her sympathy for our family and her admiration for Ellicia.

Please look here.

Thank you, M*A.


(And to all of you in the BBB, the flowers are beautiful, sweet, and appreciated.)

Lovely Poem Sent to Me

"While Waiting for Thee"

Don't weep at my grave,
For I am not there,
I've a date with a butterfly
To dance in the air.
I'll be singing in the sunshine,
Wild and free,
Playing tag with the wind,
While I'm waiting for thee.


(If this is copyrighted, I apologize...)

Finding the Online Obituaries

As we move on, the online obituaries are starting to take a little searching to find. So, here is a link:

Charleston Post & Courier

The funeral home website doesn't have a link, but she's still showing under the current listings.

FYI.

Saw Ellicia

I saw Ellicia for the first time today. First time since she'd died and they'd wheeled her away.

Was nervous. But, went right up to her...

She was covered in a sheet (up to her neck) because they didn't have clothes yet. The clothes I'd brought, even though she'd recently worn them, didn't fit anymore. I'd gone shopping for her, and selected a few outfits. (As an aside, Ellicia and I enjoyed doing clothes shopping, but men, I have to tell you... if you think clothes shopping is difficult, it's really hard when she can't try them on. Takes a lot of imagination.)

I think it's a beautiful outfit, and she'll look lovely in it.

Anyway, I was there today to let her father come to visit. Ellicia and her father had been estranged for the better part of 34 years. The reasons why are long gone and best forgotten. He'd sent an e-mail a few weeks ago reaching out to her. He'd learned of her troubles. She had a chance to read the e-mail, but... we never got to respond to it. But, I knew she wanted to.

So, he discovered the blog (handy thing, this is, no?). And when I posted that she'd died... well, he contacted the funeral home about being able to see her without causing a disruption. Classy, I think.

So, we arranged a time when he could come. The past is past, and I think a father should be able to say goodbye to his daughter.

It was very touching. I was worried because the last he'd seen her was when she was 5 and now... after the cancer... the look could be shocking. But, a father's love is undying, and he came to say goodbye. Gave her a kiss. And I felt bad for his loss. He'd lost his daughter... twice.



I'm really impressed with the amazing work of the funeral home. The funeral director had intimated to me that he and the staff had been truly shocked when they'd received her body. He said they thought that there'd been a horrible mistake, that the wrong body had been sent. He'd been worried that they wouldn't be able to do much as the cancer had ravaged her body so horribly.

I reassured him in this way. A week before she'd passed, Ellicia had said that she was looking forward to leaving the house and getting a chance to look pretty again. She hated how the mirror image looked. I told him, "She looks pretty again."

And she does.

Does she look the same as in some of the pictures in earlier posts? No. But, her beauty has always come from deeper than her skin. Her twinkling eyes, beaming smile, and the energy oozing from her... all made her very beautiful. And when I saw her lying there... her eyes may have been closed, and her mouth frozen, and the energy has left her body - but the beauty was still there. The peace with which she'd died... She's pretty again.

Obituaries

The obituaries are starting to appear.

She's listed on the Stuhr funeral home website and the Charleston Post & Courier, so far.

And, also here:
S, E Entered into eternal rest on December 31, 2006 in Virginia, E R T S, wife of W R S, Jr. Residence, Newport News, VA. Relatives and friends of Mr. and Mrs. W S, Jr. are invited to attend the funeral services of the latter in Old St. Andrews Episcopal Church, Monday, January 8, 2007 at Ten O'clock. Interment, Beaufort National Cemetery, Monday at One O'clock. Friends may call at J. HENRY STUHR, INC.,WEST ASHLEY CHAPEL, Sunday from Five until Seven O'clock. E was born in Summerville, SC, May 2, 1967, the daughter of A Tyler. She received undergraduate and graduate degrees from the College of Charleston. E was a supportive military wife and actively involved in support roles for our Armed Forces. Surviving are her mother of Charleston, SC; her husband of Newport News, VA.; 2 daughters, K N Y and M C S both of Newport News, VA.; son, T R S of Newport News, VA. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, 69 Barre Street, Charleston, SC 29401. Visit our guestbook at www.charleston.net/deaths.

Blog Tip

Some have asked for more info about Ellicia's story. I have gone through the messages and tried to find some relevant posts. If you scroll down, on the right side, you'll come to a section called Labels. There, I've placed about 68 or so "Ellicia" posts.

Now, keep in mind, these aren't all of the posts that are at all related to Ellicia. I'm still working on labels, but these are the most relevant.

In the archives, still unlabeled, are plenty of Ellicia posts...

And as I have time, and browse through, I'll label those, too.

Please, enjoy reading and sharing her joy of life and determination to fight and win against this disease... so proud of her!

More Funeral Information

The Visitation will be held at Stuhr Funeral Home's West Ashley location on Sunday from 5 pm to 7 pm.

The Funeral service will be at Old Saint Andrew's Church at 10 am on Monday, the 8th.

And the burial will be at 1 pm in Beaufort National Cemetary.

Those of you who can attend, please come. Ellicia and I found many friends through the blog and net, and we would love to have you come as we lay her to rest.

If you have any questions, please feel free to drop a line on the blog, or you may e-mail me: sceagle1118 AT yahoo.com.

There was an earlier question about which Breast Cancer foundation. It has been suggested, and I'm recommending, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Please, help us find a cure to this horrible disease.

Thank you... your comments have been amazing. Late at night, when I can't sleep, I'm stunned by the number of sites that have linked to our story and by the messages you have left. Ellicia and I always thought of ourselves as "just us"... regular people, and to see the lives that she/we've touched... makes me very proud for her.

Ellicia In Pictures

Ellicia with Santa

As you may have read in my Dad's post, we had a visit with Santa.

In Germany, we never really got to visit Santa, so we really wanted to have the kids visit Santa.

We wanted to make it as much of a family event as possible, partly because we knew it'd be Ellicia's last Christmas.

On the 23rd, Ellicia was out of the hospital, my Dad was in town, her Mom was in town, and we had all of the kids. So, that evening, we loaded everyone up. We packed extra oxygen, put the wheelchair in the van, and loaded everyone into two cars. And off we went. It was around 1830, and the mall was packed with last minute shoppers. The line for Santa was about two hours long.

After a bit, the staff allowed us to move to the head of the line. The kids went through, and we had a wonderful time. They loved it. Ellica and I delighted in watching them.

Then, I went over to Santa, and asked if he would mind one more. I explained Ellicia's situation, and how we hoped maybe Santa had something special in his magical bag. He said he wasn't God (of course), but that he'd love to.

I walked over to Ellicia, and asked, "Would you like to visit with Santa?" Her eyes lit up and she said, "Yes!"

I wheeled her over, and then backed away. Keep in mind that there was a huge line of kids waiting for Santa... the staff disappeared, and Santa then spent about 10-15 minutes with Ellicia. I have no idea (and now, never will) what was said, but the looks on Ellicia's face were amazing. She truly looked like a little girl at Christmas, again. (Look at number 3).

After it was over, Santa got up and made some written notes... I wonder what her wrote?

It was a wonderful visit, and there really is a Santa. I thought I'd share this magical moment.

Initial Funeral Info

Many of you are interested in the funeral info... it's too early for many of the details, as I don't meet with the funeral home until Thursday.

Here's what I do know:

• She's flying from Norfolk to Charleston on Wednesday. I'm going to the airport with her to see her off.
• The funeral is being handled by J. Henry Stuhr Funeral Homes, 3360 Glenn McConnell Parkway, Charleston, SC
• In lieu of flowers, I'm asking that donations be made to a good and reputable breast cancer foundation. While Ellicia loves flowers, and would certainly appreciate them, I think we can best be served by trying to defeat this cursed disease before it kills too many more wonderful people.
• The service will be at Old St. Andrew's Church in Charleston, SC. It's not our home church, as we're really without one, but it's beautiful, and Ellicia would like it.
• Ellicia wishes to be buried next to me. As I have no home cemetary or family plot, I've decided to be buried in a National Cemetary. Beaufort, SC is the closest National Cemetary to our families and homes in South Carolina, so that is where she'll rest until I finally join her. I like to think that until then, all of my "buddies" will keep watch over her.
• We will do the services on Monday. I do not have times yet.

I want to thank all of you for your wonderful comments. I cannot respond to each of you, but I wish I could. As this site, particularly her post has turned into a virtual funeral register, I intend to print all of your thoughts and comments and tuck them into her casket to be with her. The support for her (and us) from literally around the world has been astounding and she was always amazed and comforted by it... and I want it to stay with her.

Thank you, all.

Messages for Mommy

Tonight, we sent messages to Mommy. It was originally an idea by the children's counselor to help them grieve, but...

I added a message, and so did Marmee.

All of us (except Thomas, who can't write yet) wrote short messages to Mommy, and we tied them to balloons.

Then, we went out on the back deck and launched the balloons up into the sky... and we hope Mommy will get them and read them.

It's a nice idea...

(and part of me really is hoping she'll see the messages.)

Post From My Dad

I'd meant to post this before... but, there had been little time for blogging. My Dad wrote this to share some of what had been missing since I'd not updated the blog.

I'm including it as written. My Dad has never been one for correct spellings, or such. Writing for him has always been a chore. So, when he sent this, I was moved just that he wrote it. Here it is:

Well The Stanleys have been ultra busy - Since traveling accross the pond from
Germany to Charleston SC on November 22 - They had Thanksgiving then Sunday they
rented a van to go to Virginia. Kinda like in the fronteir days where the family
packed up the wagon with all they had an off to a new land. The Army put them in
a Hotel and Reid was off to making lots of arrangements - Contacting his new
command , finding transportation (his vehicle is on a ship somewhere) and
finding a place to live - the choices were very very slim as Ellicia condition
had declined - taking 4 steps is a major task. Ellicia was hospitalized and
allowed to come home a few days prior to Christmas. I was worried about there
being a Christmas so a week ago i took up a live tree and decorated it (it did
not win any awards0. The niighbors have been wonderful The days have really been
long for Reid taking care of little ones and wife. So I went back up this friday
and knowing that a extended diet on McDonalds had to stop - I was able to get a
friend to cook a few dishes - I guess the habit of McDonalds was hard to change
as when lunch time came Reid said how about Peanut butter swamage -I said no I
want real food and it was wonderful. In a week - the Sergents have helped -
Realitor has helped and the Elks club has helped with food for the house - some
furniture (they had none) and helped with lots of wonderful gifts for Christmas
- I mean lots - Saturday Ellicia's mom was able to make it up so that afternoon
we loaded 2 cars and off to the Mall to see Santa - not a easy undertaking -
Ellicia has to have oxygen all the time and is in a wheel chair - the line was
long - the kids eyes wide open with anticaption to see Santa. Santa was
wonderful - they allow them head of line privelage after about 30 min wait.
After each child talked with Santa - after Santa fihished with the kids - Santa
got out of his chair walked over to Ellicia -knelt down on one leg and Talked
with her alone - I dont know what they said to each other - the smile on her
face was like a little child - so for a moment in time there was some normalice
- but there is a Santa!! From a parent - very concerned about his son and family
- I can not express in words the kindness and love each of you have desplayed
for my son and family - I has gone a long long way to making a impossible
situation - bearable. Merry Christmas - Happy Honica
- Reid's dad

Pain, No More

Ellicia died today. 3:20 PM. It was a long day, but the end was... peaceful. And heart-wrenching. She was told it was ok to go... but, she's stubborn you know...

She's gone now. No more of the horrible hideous pain... for her.

Rest, in peace, my love... my friend... my companion. I will always love you... and I miss you more than you know. I am so happy you hurt no more, but I am selfish for one last twinkly smile, one last laugh, one last kiss.

You were a beautiful, strong, incredible woman whom I was blessed to know and share some time with. I will miss all that we left undone together, yet I look forward to what will come - one day.

I love you, Ellicia.

02 May 1967 - 31 December 2006

New Posts Coming Soon!

Promise. We've almost reached the point where we'll be at least half-way settled in...

Got lots to post...

Looking forward to it.

Coming soon.


Really.

And thank you all for your continued prayers and comments.

Leaving... On a Jet Plane

It's been quiet on the blog, hasn't it?

Yes, I've actually been very busy in the time since the last post. We've packed all of our belongings, sold/thrown away what didn't get packed, left our house, had umpteen signatures authorizing me to leave, shipped more items, and cleared up any loose ends here in Germany.

So, what is involved in leaving the base?

First, some timeline. My orders are stamped 06 November. They told me to be out of town on the 22nd. 16 days, right?

Wrong. I actually received the orders on the 7th. 15 days. Late on the 7th, so... 14 days.

The 22nd is our flying date, so everything needs to be done before that, so... the 21st. 13 days.

Veterans Day was in there. That's a four-day weekend here. 9 days.

There was another weekend. 7 days.

7 days to get it all done.

Wait, one day is spent with them packing up "Unaccompanied Baggage" - that's the critical need stuff you need shipped lickity-split to your destination. Clothes, cribs, computer, TV, etc. Lickity-split for us equals 22 December. Oh, and that leaves 6 days.

There's still the rest of the house... different day to be shipped. 5 days.

Oh, and if you have a vehicle (like I do), it needs to be cleaned and shipped. Cleaning requires it to look better than when it left the dealer. Really. That clean. I didn't have the time, so I paid a guy $200 to do it. Took him TEN hours. Think I got a good deal. Oh, and of course, the shipping base for the vehicle is an hour and a half away, and it takes a few hours to do the paperwork. 4 days.

4 days to clear the base.

4 days to get signatures from: The bank, the PX, the fitness center, the education center, the phone service, the school, the childcare center, the medical clinic, the dental clinic, the child registry, the finance office (twice), the Army Community Service, the housing office, the transportation office, the Installation Access office, the personnel office, the ID card office, TriCare office, the Central Issuing Facility, your arms room, the Career counselor, the Veterinary clinic, the Safety office, the tax office, the Key control office, the Vehicle registry, the travel office (need plane tickets, don't forget!), the post office, the tool room, the motor pool, the operations office, the supply room, the intelligence office, the battalion supply office, the commander, and the battalion personnel office.

4 days.

In Illeshiem, it can take up to FIVE different bases to accomplish all of this. AND there's a prescribed order in some cases (A must be done before B, but neither A nor B will tell you about that until you try to do B without A). Throw in the fact that a small post like this has limited and odd operating hours for some offices, and it becomes a planning challenge. Further add that you don't know what an office may require of you UNTIL you arrive, and it becomes more interesting.

Quite a few didn't think it could be done in 4 days.

Further add one more thing. The PCS-gremlin. The PCS-gremlin is the kind of thing that will crop up when you least need something to go wrong. In our case, it was two of the clan getting sick and one falling (twice) and hurting her collarbone. This also being after I'd already cleared the medical clinic.

4 days was not a lot of time. It was hectic, stressful, and often frustrating. Some offices refused to do business with me until I had special memoranda written by my commander explaining how I was an exception to policy. Then, in a neat twist, the supply room of the unit wouldn't accept the clearance authorized by that memoranda. Back and forth, like a tennis ball, until I finally cleared.

Lots of driving.

It was an impossibly tight schedule. I'm happy it's done and over with.

All the paperwork has been cleared. Our stuff is all gone. Our beloved house is no longer rented by us. The kids have finished their schools.

We're leaving... on a jet plane.

My father and his ex-wife came over to help, and they helped us accomplish a good bit (best darn house-cleaners on the planet!).

So, in a few hours, we'll convoy, in three cars, to Frankfurt. There are seven of us getting on the plane. Plus about 11 or 12 pieces of luggage. And two cats. And a child seat. And a booster seat. And a stroller. Think the only thing I haven't arranged is the sherpa.

We'll soon be back in the United States. As I told a friend, I'll know I'm going home when I approach that big (and beautiful) Delta jet and see the beautiful American flag on her tail.

What am I going to miss?

Lots. I've enjoyed my time here in Germany, and am disappointed it can't be more. I'd originally extended to stay here through 2009. I'd always thought I'd won the Army lottery by being assigned to Europe.

I'm going to miss going on the next deployment with my (former, sigh) unit.

I'm going to miss driving in Germany. It's SO simple and predictable... I've felt perfectly comfortable driving 90 MPH, in traffic, in a blizzard. Could never do that in the States.

I'm going to miss the recent drive I took down the autobahn... 150 MPH. Even if I max the speedlimit in the States, it's still only half that. And it's faster than our helicopters. More? I still got passed.

I'm going to miss the backroads. Every road has a white stake every 50 meters. You could always see the road, and it was comforting at night. And in the day, the scenery was unbeatable.

I'm goint to miss the small towns and villages. Six houses might make a village here, and they're darn proud of their little hamlets. Very quaint.

I'm going to miss living in a town that celebrates it's 1000th anniversary.

I'm going to miss driving in other countries... Hmm, this weekend, I think I'll go to _________. Told you, won the lottery...

I'm going to miss my kids learning another language the easy way.

I'm going to miss a good German dinner.

I'm going to miss seeing the odd sights, like a turkey being taken for a ride in a wheelbarrow (not at Thanksgiving, which they don't have here anyway). It for all the world looked like Farmer Hans was taking his turkey for a pleasure ride.

I'm going to miss the stars. The nights here are so pure. No light pollution. Much like when I was in Afghanistan. So many stars. Beautiful. Breathtaking.

I'm going to miss German windows. Very innovative and WHY we don't have them is a mystery to me.

I'm going to miss my (former) unit. I can't say enough about my (former) unit. From the top down, it's been a fantastic group. For so many reasons, and not all dealing with how they helped me and my family. In many ways, they became another family. I will miss them.

I won't miss the way the Army functions... easy come, easy go. You arrive at a unit, and Poof!, instantly you're a part of it. Dive in. And when you leave... a signature, a stamp, shake your hand, and you walk out the door... and you're gone. Someone fills your place, and another unit fills the void. But it doesn't... I hated walking out that door. But the Army goes rolling along.

I'm not going to miss the absolute asses that Americans make out of themselves here. We forget that we're in their country. And often times, those loudly complaining about immigrants in the States not learning English, or American customs, are the very ones complaining that the local German storekeeper doesn't speak English. We may have come here by force, but now we're guests in their home... and many smell like bad fish.

I'm not going to miss the crazy hours of my small post. Always trying to remember what was open when... it's Monday, what's open today?

I'm not going to miss relying on the AAFES monopoly. Readers of the blog know how I feel about it, so I won't re-hash... but, overseas, it truly IS a company town.

I'm not going to miss the occasional frustration of outpost living... It's quite a transition when you come from the land of anything you want anytime, anywhere you want it. Life's different here. Often, in a good way. Not always.

I'm not going to miss the frustration I felt when I couldn't read a sign nor order my food properly. I made my effort to learn German (and was getting it when a slight detour in Afghanistan came along), but... while I was feeling competent, I just wasn't high-speed yet.

I'm not going to miss that inevitable tractor going 25 KPH on a windy, twisty, unpassable German road...



It's been quite an experience, both for myself and for my family. Good and bad all around. Putting aside the elephant in the room (cancer, sssshhhh) for a moment... I can only hope that my children will retain some memories of their experiences here. I know my wife has had an opportunity that she'd not have had otherwise... From Germany, we've toured around... Paris for New Years, the castles of France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Schloss Neuschwanstein, and Malta, just for starters. And I, too, have had a memory or two. I never, EVER, believed that one day I'd be driving my Ford through the streets of East Berlin, for example.

It's hard to believe it's all coming to an end. The suddeness with which one can change chapters in life is drastic, no? A few weeks ago, we were keeping house out in Bavaria, with German neighbors, and now, I sit here, hours away from a flight, my family asleep in the quiet of our last Deutsch nacht.

I don't want to leave. Not the experience, not the unit, none of it.

I can't wait to get back to the United States. I miss her. I miss all that we take for granted, back home.

I miss home. I look forward to our making a new home, this time in Virginia, and seeing where life takes us this time.

So, as this chapter closes, we turn the page...

(Want to come along?)

Hail and Farewell

My unit threw Ellicia and I a "Hail and Farewell" tonight. We were stunned. See, I'm just a junior enlisted, and usually us low ranking folks come and go quietly.

Certainly not a party.

Not one attended by the 1SG, my CO, and my battalion Commander (45 minute drive) with his wife.

And so many friends.

Was surprised.

And then, they gave me this:

That's an intentional spelling of "Unyielding", too. An inside joke, if you will. One of the things I always did was proof anything coming out of our office, so... to show that they'd miss me, they spelled it wrong. Nice touch.

I'm so amazed and humbled to have received this. I'll treasure it... for a long, long time.

It's an "Official" Move

How do you know the move is official?

When you get your orders? No, those can always be changed...

It's when you sell all your TVs and your freezer. You know you're leaving soon then!

Out of My Daughter's Mouth

Our little daughter approached my wife today, and after looking at her, proclaimed:

"You have one big boobie, one no boobie, and I have two little boobies."

(And then she lifted her shirt and showed her exactly what she meant.)

(She's also proudly announcing that today she didn't pee herself.)

I am making notes of this if for no other reason than to make sure I have material whenever she decides to bring a boy(friend) over for dinner or such.

On the Way!

We have orders!

I was given my orders at about 1550 today. While too late to get much done today, I am now on my way out of here.

It's going to be tight, as we fly on 22 November. Given that there are some holidays, here's the time frame...

08 November - Pickup clearing papers (nothing can happen without clearing papers). Also, try to juggle a medical appointment, a meeting, scheduling our household goods shipment.

09 November - Continue clearing, particulars decided by 08 November results.

10 November - Veterans Day. Nothing happens.
11 November - Saturday. (Party!)
12 November - Sunday. Guessing we'll move soon, so make sure we're ready for our house to be packed.
13 November - Training Holiday... most offices will be closed.
14 November - Vet appointment; continue clearing.
15 November - Truck scheduled for cleaning. Deep, deep detail cleaning for shipping, so nothing else will be accomplished today.
16 November - Pick up Dad and friend from the airport. They're coming over to help escort us back to the States.
17 November - Ship truck.
18 November - Saturday. M turns FOUR!
19 November - Sunday. It's getting close. Should be in a hotel by now.
20 November - Last bit of clearing.
21 November - Final out.
22 November - Say goodbye to Germany.

It's an intense and busy schedule, but we can do it... we're on the way now... no turning back.

Just became a lot more real... :)

(Technical note: Somewhere in there, our lines to the outside world will be cut. There will be a last post, and then... for a few days at least, "A Storm in Afghanistan" will go quiet as we relocate Storm Central to our temporary headquarters in the States. Please, continue stopping by, and any comments/e-mails will be answered as soon as our commo guys get some tin cans and string together.)

Vote.

Angels Amongst Us

I want to take a moment to honor the Angels who are amongst us. They come from many walks of life, and of diverse beliefs (religious, political, what-have-you), and yet they have come together for the common cause of supporting troops.

These Angels support the troops in different ways, whether it be through care packages, supportive letters, and e-mails. Some make craft objects, cookies, blankets, and other adornments. Some spend immense amounts of their own money to buy whatever they perceive their troops need. And let's not discuss postage.

They devote hours of their time to people they've never met, and may never meet.

One of the largest organizations of such people is called Soldiers' Angels.

Which leads me to this. One of my Angels recently felt moved to have a very special tattoo, her first, done. It is the Soldiers' Angels logo. She said she did it to remind herself of a time in her life when she felt she tangibly "did something". She knew she'd been able to help people (and I assure you, she has).

She allowed me to share this picture on one condition. I had to include a poem that she feels speaks to why she became an Angel and what keeps her motivated. I personally feel that the Angels amongst us deserve so much recognition, as they are what the military would call a "Force Multiplier". They keep Soldiers' spirits up and provide support in many ways, most tangible, but quite a few intangible. So, for all those of you who wonder about Angels... they are amongst us.

"I am only one; but still I am one.
I cannot do everything,
but I still can do something.
I will not refuse to do
the something I can do."
-Helen Keller

Fun at YouTube

Some videos I've been looking at (h/t to Blackfive for some of these)...



Why You Should Vote Republican


What A Democrat Ad in 1941 Would Look Like


An Education About the War On Terror


We Didn't Start the Fire

You Need to Know What's Out There

Andi over at Andi's World brings to light some of the types of comments that people don't usually see or hear.

In her post here, she lists two of the comments that were posted to a newspaper's website after they published a story about Gold Star Mothers going to Iraq.

(Note: Gold Star Mothers are mothers of Servicemembers who've died in wartime.)

I'll also note that should you go directly to the newspapers' site (link provided in Andi's post), you'll read even more of the comments. Warning, it'll make you sick to your stomach.

The Orders My Friend... Are Blowin' In The Wind

On Thursday, my Commander showed me the letter he'd written to respond to one (of the three) of the Congressional Inquiries I'd initiated. In it, he explained that while there had been delays, they expected to have the process completed in approximately two weeks, as it still had a few more layers to go before the Compassionate Reassignment request was formally approved.

Just before noon on Friday, my Commander called me and told me the request had been approved, and the orders would be ready for me to pick up. So, after making sure Ellicia was ok and squared away (she was still recovering from her chemo), and dashed off to the local PSB (Personnel Services Battalion).

When I arrived, I was told that the orders weren't complete, but I did get some information. I was given a Reference number to show the process was real, and a report date to FT. Eustis of 10 December. I've also noticed that my DEROS (Date Expected to Return from Overseas Service) has been changed to 22 November (yes, check the calendar, that date.)

So, come Monday, I should be able to pick up my orders and then, the odyssey will begin in earnest.

We're coming home...

Enough With the Late Games!

I am blessed again that AFN will be carrying the South Carolina vs. Arkansas game. I am sad, though, that again it's a late game. So, another all-nighter...

But, that said...

GO COCKS!

Who's On First?

This showed up in my e-mail and tickled my funny bone.


Ladies and Gentlemen, the President of the United States......




George: Condi! Nice to see you. What's happening?

Condi: Sir, I have the report here about the new leader of China.

George: Great. Lay it on me.

Condi: Hu is the new leader of China.

George: That's what I want to know.

Condi: That's what I'm telling you.

George: That's what I'm asking you. Who is the new leader of China?

Condi: Yes.

George: I mean the fellow's name.

Condi: Hu.

George: The guy in China.

Condi: Hu.

George: The new leader of China.

Condi: Hu.

George: The main man in China!

Condi: Hu is leading China.

George: Now whaddya' asking me for?

Condi: I'm telling you, Hu is leading China.

George: Well, I'm asking you. Who is leading China?

Condi: That's the man's name.

George: That's who's name?

Condi: Yes.

George: Will you, or will you not, tell me the name of the new leader of China?

Condi: Yes, sir.

George: Yassir? Yassir Arafat is in China? I thought he's dead in the Middle East.

Condi: That's correct.

George: Then who is in China?

Condi: Yes, sir.

George: Yassir is in China?

Condi: No, sir.

George: Then who is?

Condi: Yes, sir.

George: Yassir?

Condi: No, sir.

George: Look Condi. I need to know the name of the new leader of China. Get me the Secretary General of the U.N. on the phone.

Condi: Kofi?

George: No, thanks.

Condi: You want Kofi?

George: No.

Condi: You don't want Kofi.

George: No. But now that you mention it, I could use a glass of milk. And then get me the U.N.

Condi: Yes, sir.

George: Not Yassir! The guy at the U.N.

Condi: Kofi?

George: Milk! Will you please make the call?

Condi: And call who?

George: Who is the guy at the U.N?

Condi: Hu is the guy in China

George: Will you stay out of China?!

Condi: Yes, sir.

George: And stay out of the Middle East! Just get me the guy at the U.N.

Condi: Kofi.

George: All right! With cream and two sugars.

Paperwork Watch

Days since submitted: 32 (though there is some dispute on that)
Days until last German medical appointment: 7

Upcoming concerns? Veterans' Day is a 4-Day weekend, so 2 workdays are lost... Getting pressed into the Thanksgiving timeframe (costs increase, plus once you hit Turkey Day, it's harder and harder to accomplish things as people keep take vacations)

Command IS helping in a good way... they're letting me process "Clearing" paperwork without the orders. This will speed up the process when the paperwork hits.

The watch continues.

The Sergeant Major Comments

Over on SGT Hook, this is an excellent read about how his Soldiers demonstrate the fallacy of Mr. Kerry's thinking.

And for those who think it was just a "botched joke"... 1) It's hard to make a comment like that if it runs contrary to your base thoughts. 2) Been on the liberal blogs and forums? Some very interesting comments supporting Mr. Kerry's "blown joke".

Army Strong; Kerry Smart

Scott Ott at ScrappleFace has produced a nice tribute video.

More on Kerry

Came across this in my e-mail...

Mr. Kerry has come out and said that of course he wasn't insulting the troops, it was a joke, and everyone should have known that.

So, just to be clear, if you're stupid, you join the military. And if you didn't know he was joking about that, then you're stupid.

Something to think about next time you see someone who still has a 2004 Kerry sticker or when you're trying to make your decision on whom to vote for this year.

Boo!

Tonight we had Halloween, and it's a little different over here. For one thing, the Germans don't have Halloween. Or rather, they didn't. It seems that they do get American movies and television shows. Recently, their children have discovered that the parental overseers have been supressing a potential source of candy for them, and the rebellion has begun.

Secondly, our base is but a wee, tiny place. So, instead of any sense of Trick or Treat, what they organize is "Trunk or Treat".

Outside the gym, the MP's block off a section of parking lot, and several cars, minivans, and trucks come in (decorating optional, though some do really get into it) and line up. Pop, the trunk, and you lead your children around to the cars and collect the yummies.

This was kind of cool, this year, because last year I was at a costume party where we all dressed up as Army men. So, it was my first time Halloweening with Thomas.

Want to know what they dressed up as?


That's our Fashion Model on the left, our Duck in the middle, and returning in her fabulous role as the Pumpkin... the Pumpkin on the right (right before a short, but needed nap).



As you can see, our Fashion Model looked fahboulous... She was really great striking poses, and sashaying, and all... Frightening thing was that we have no idea where she got all this, or even the desire to be a Fashion Model. Our children don't watch TV, and there's just not that kind of exposure here, but... nonetheless... there she is.

She absolutely froze, but she was happy. Short skirt (though not too much), and a halter-like top (had one spaghetti strap, and one no strap side), plus pink fishnet tights. Leesh tried to balance the outfit with some make-up, but still... I kept watch for anyone about to pull out a bunch of singles...



Here's the Duck! He was feeling a bit under the weather, but still had a GREAT time. Here, you can see him practicing his driving skills, and he seemed to actually have a fairly good grasp of the basic concepts... turn the wheel, push some buttons, fiddle with the radio, turn the wheel.

He looked so cute. And he did a great job with the trick-or-treating. We walked around, he held his bag, and was quite amused that these people were putting CANDY in his bag. Pretty cool holiday.

Super soft plush costume... and he had a great time.

As for our Pumpkin, she had a good time once she got into it... but, too late for any smiles on the camera.


They finished with a visit to the Haunted House. And our girls were thoroughly and properly frightened out of their little skulls.

A perfect Halloween.

(And the neat thing? We got some trick-or-treaters at our house. Or at least, I think they were. Our doorbell rang, and it never does, and there were some kids wearing things that looked like costumes. Not sure what they said, but they walked away with Three Musketeers bars (not available in Germany, from what I can tell). Sure hope they were saying, "Trick or Treat" and not something else. The Germans are still learning, though, because the bell rang up until 2100, and that was even with our house pitch-black. Give them time, though... they're learning.)

Senator Kerry and the Troops

I wasn't going to comment on this. I mean, who's surprised?

Haven't heard? Really?

“You know, education, if you make the most of it, if you study hard and
you do your homework, and you make an effort to be smart, uh, you, you
can do well. If you don’t, you get stuck in Iraq.”

See? What's there to comment on?

Would I really want to comment on the fact that every military officer in Iraq (and Afghanistan, and aw shoot, the entire military) has a college degree? Nope, wouldn't do that. Wouldn't mention those mighty-fine institutions like West Point, Annapolis, and the Air Force Academy that presumably issue diplomas on toilet paper.

Nope.

I certainly won't comment on those fine, intelligent NCO's and junior enlisted who do such foolish things as earn college degrees and then, in moments of (Senatorial perceived) stupidity, re-enlist.

It'd be foolhardy of me to ask if the Senator was familiar with the sheer complexity of many of the weapons systems (the ones he hasn't canceled or de-funded) that our (Senatorially perceived) ignorant servicemembers are (apparently) hard-pressed to operate.

I have absolutely no urge to comment.

I don't even wish to speculate if it would help raise the intelligence of our military (according to the Senator), if the "great" higher institutions of learning would allow recruiters and ROTC onto their campuses.

No, I won't comment.

I don't even think I can. Me a Soldier... me not so smart, Senator.

Paperwork - Day 29

So, here we are... Day 29. Still no orders.

As of today, I'm told that the paperwork is at Division. It finally left Brigade on 26 October.

Sigh.

And the Congressional offices say that they expect an answer within a couple of weeks, since they marked it "Urgent".

No one seems to have any sense of urgency on this.

I'm worried we're getting backed into "Coffin Corner" (it's a flying term). Our last German appointment is 09 November. The Germans aren't wanting to start any major treatments or procedures that they won't be able to finish, or that may lock their American counterparts into something, or that may debilitate her to where she can't travel. Understandable.

But, without orders, we can't get to the American doctors to begin anything.

So, very, very frustrating.

How long can this take? How long does it take to review this paperwork?

"File the paperwork, and we can have you out of here in a week..." Right.

Project ValOUR-IT

What is Project ValOUR-IT?

Project ValOUR-IT is administered by Soldiers' Angels. The idea of the program is to provide Voice Activated Laptops for OUR Injured Troops. To date, they have donated over 600 laptops to troops injured and needing special computers.

You may, or may not, be aware of the troops who are injured while fighting for our freedom in the Global War on Terrorism. Due to the innovations in armor, many troops survive attacks, yet lose limb(s). In the case of those who lose their hands, one of the things they lose is the ability to use a standard computer.

Since you're reading this on a website, it's a presumption that you're using a computer to get here. Imagine how frustrating it might be if you couldn't type anything. Could you enjoy the benefits of online banking? How many of you go shopping online? Look up information for reference? Or send e-mails and Instant Message with your friends and family?



Project ValOUR-IT helps solve these problems for our injured troops by providing specially configured laptops to these troops to ensure they can participate in today's wired world and not be left behind.

We're raising these funds as teams. For obvious reasons, I'm supporting the Army team. You can find their button on the right side of the screen.

So many of you out there have been incredibly supportive of our family. We can not thank you enough for your donations. If you've come here to donate to us, THANK YOU! And while you're here, please consider donating to this worthy cause. Project ValOUR-IT is a worthy cause. 100% of donations will go to the laptops.

A Week to Go

In one week, we'll reach Election Day in America. And many, many of those Americans out there will do... nothing.

It's a shame, really. Around the world, when given the opportunity, people will line up for days, walk a hundred miles, and quite often take their lives into their own hands to exercise a right to vote.

And here, in the self-proclaimed home of democracy, for many it's too much trouble.

It's too much trouble to become a truly informed voter. And by informed voter, I mean someone who's answer to the question, "Why are you voting for ___________" does not include any of the following type of statements:

• He looks good in a suit (I've heard it)
• Any soundbite heard in a commercial
• Anything that's a negative soundbite on the opponent ("The other guy wears puppies for clothes.")
• He has an honest face

Vote! But more importantly, be an Informed Voter. Know what the candidates believe for their values and beliefs. Become educated on their positions beyond the ads you'll hear on TV and radio.

There are videos at Federal Voting Assistance Program which show how empty commercials can be. There are campaign commercials for "Bag of Leaves" or "Old Relish Packet", for example, that have the traditional look and feel of campaign commercials. And it's non-information like those types of ads that many people base their vote on.

Educate yourself. Find out what the candidates believe. Watch a debate. Look at their websites. Ask them a question. Think about what's important to you. And try to imagine what a candidate might do in a situation that hasn't yet been envisioned.



And I have one more idea. And this is perhaps most important. When you vote, dye your finger. Show the nation that you have voted and be PROUD of it. You're continuing a long tradition for which many people around the world have died.

Beccy Cole - Poster Girl

I've been shouting about this wherever I go... this is just phenomenal. Such a showing of support.

She is a singer in Australia, and apparently, she came under criticism for expressing support for the troops.

And she responded, with this song.

Way to go, Ms. Cole.

Military Censorship?

There has been much todo made about the new Pentagon unit "keeping watch" over the military bloggers, or "milblogs".

Part of this is certainly valid comment. There is concern, voiced particularly articulately by Matt at Blackfive. In lieu of excellent reporting of war experiences by the media (by accident or design is another debate), and with the technology of today permitting a more immediate equal of yesterday's letters home, milblogs are wonderful.

Yet, military members also sacrifice many of the rights that all other citizens take for granted.

Walk up to your boss and insult him in a particularly vile manner, most likely you'll be fired. If I do it, I may end up in jail. Military jail. Fun place.

Wear your work outfit to a political rally, and unless you're the local garbage collector, few may notice. Should I do it, definite punishment is likely.

These are just a couple of examples. It's said that the military exercises control over every facet of a servicemember's life, and there is quite a bit of truth to that.

And so, when it comes to milblogs, the military actually has, at the base level, two requests: 1) Don't use government property to update your website and 2) don't reveal military secrets or information that may be harmful to military operations.

Fair enough. Yes, the enforcement is left up to individual commanders, as are most regulations. This certainly makes it interesting.

So, do you continue milblogging? It's a decision each milblogger must make on their own.

One final thought... letters home in WW2 were censored, too.

Monopolistic Advertising

Kind of a slow night, and as my mind slogged through the fog of waiting for the Panthers to play (starts at 0220 tonight, so no sleep for me!), I observed the following thoughts.

AFN Radio advertises on AFN TV. What's interesting is that they feel the need to advertise... they are, after all, the only English speaking radio broadcasting in many of the countries that American servicemembers are stationed. Of course, the other question about AFN radio is why so often they broadcast on frequencies that American radios (those made for Americans... like the ones in American cars, and American stereos) do not receive?

And then there's AAFES. AAFES often likes to advertise. The following stores are the only stores that can be found on an American military installation: AAFES and AAFES concessionaires. So, why is AAFES advertising? Sure, there's the Internet for buying stuff and it is becoming more and more popular. However, AAFES is still supposedly where we can find all of the day-to-day items that we need, so... why advertise when you have a monopoly?

Also interesting to see the recruiting ads for the various services. Considering 99.9% of the viewers are presumably quite familiar with the military services.

Some random thoughts...

Stupid Reporter Question

With a h/t to Hub, I came across this post.

It refers to a typically stupid reporter question and a long-wished for response.

In fact, many often wish we'd actually fight this war instead of whatever the heck it is we're doing with it now.

Is there such a thing as life support for war?

"Well, sir, the war was nearly over due to our efforts, so we've eased up, and now we're doing just enough to keep the war going for awhile..."

It's Tough Being a Gamecock Fan

University of South Carolina is playing Tennessee this tonight. And AFN IS CARRYING IT!

So, it's 0145 here (and will be again in about an hour) and I'm up cheering on the Cocks.

They even televised USC's coming onto the field with 2001 which brought back fond memories of being on the field in 1990 with the USC Band. An amazing experience.

So, it's off to watching the game now...

And all of you out there... yell it loud and proud:

GO COCKS!

A Quiet Weekend

Thanks to a hardy, brave soul, we have a weekend with no children. Our plans are fairly simple... Ellicia will work to recover from the chemo, and I will continue to pre-pack the house.

She's still recovering... the chemo does some funky things to her lately. Mainly, makes her skin crawl, her nerves tingle, and often times, a general numbing of her whole body (right down to the tip of her tongue).

For pre-packing, that essentially means downsizing. There are weight limits on what can be shipped, and it's based on rank, not family size. Therefore, we're tossing stuff left to right. It's a little easier since our appliances are all being left here.

And the kids... well, there's a nice (childless) family that has a farmhouse, complete with dogs and horses and the whole See N Say barnyard. One can only imagine how their weekend is going. :)

Freedom of Speech Displayed

Lonestar Pundit has a new post about a college student's decision to display the American flag in his dorm room.

I just don't know what to say.

Auction

It's now completed, and the winning bidder bid $1530.

Whomever you are... Thank you!

And to Andrea & Mark, thank you for setting this up.

Anna, M*A, TWD, Gawfer, AWTM, and so many more... Thank you for all that you contributed to this auction's success.

And to LTC Patterson - Sir, Thank you for your generous donation. I am sure the lucky winner will enjoy your books.

And to all of the rest of you... your support, whether it be via the donation button, prayers, cards of support, or your own special way, Ellicia & I say a big Thank You to you.

Rough Day

Well, today was another Chemo day...

Don't think it went so well. She took her pills (four little tablets of medically prescribed poison) in the morning and soon went down.

Didn't see her most of the day. She says everything is all "tingly" and numb. Made her stay in bed, and I checked in on her, keeping her hydrated.

Rough times... hate seeing her like this and knowing there's nothing I can do. But, this is what is required... at least until we can get her to the "competent" medical care in the US.

Sigh.

(Tomorrow is Day 25. Sigh, again. Where are the orders?)

Shipping Deadlines to Troops Overseas

The yearly holiday guidelines have been published for those of you wanting to send packages to troops (loved ones, friends, family, Adopted Soldier) here's what you need to do:

First, check the ZIP code for your package. If the Zip code (or APO/FPO code) begins with:
090 - 092 Germany
094 United Kingdom
096 Italy and Spain
097 Other European Locations
098 Middle East and Africa - NOT Iraq/Afghanistan
340 Central and South America
962 Korea (Do I have to write "South"?)
963 Japan
964 Phillipines
965 or 966 Other Pacific Locations

First-class Letters and cards should be mailed by 11 December
Express Mail Military Service by 19 December
Priority Mail by 19 December (no explanation of why you'd pay more for the Express if it gets there the same time)
Parcel Post by 13 November
Parcel Airlift Mail by 04 December
Space Available Mail by 27 November

Now, for those of you mailing to APO/FPO AE beginning with 093 (Iraq/Afghanistan):
First Class by 04 December
Priority Mail by 04 December
Parcel Post by 13 November
Parcel Airlift Mail by 02 December
Space Available Mail by 27 November

Note: No Express Mail Military Service available, so don't waste the money.

Hope this helps.

AAFES Is Lowering Gas Prices!

Excellent...

As of tonight, I see that the average price of gas in the States is $2.20 per gallon.

AAFES announced it's new prices for Germany and they're lowering the price to:

$2.38 per gallon

(In truth, when one takes into account octane differences (and few people do), the equivalent is being lowered to $2.492 per gallon.)

These are roughly 23.2 cent per gallon reductions, and AAFES says that they overrode their normal pricing policy (which again highlights that there is a PROBLEM with that policy, but that's for another day.)

On a personal note, since every day it seems like we'll STILL be here in November, it's nice to know I'll be paying less by about 23 cents per gallon. Considering the amount of gas I go through, it'll be a nice savings. At least, until I can get to the $1.93 per gallon (source: GasPriceWatch.com) in the Ft. Eustis area.

Yippee!

24 Days

And counting. Still awaiting orders. No word yet.

:(

More Support Rolling In...

More websites are covering the auction (which ends tonight).

A Craigslist entry

Cold Fury

Dodgebloggin

Noodlehead made a video and posted it to YouTube

Another Craigslist entry (though kinda depressing)

Confederate Yankee

Have we mentioned Michelle Malkin (Note: Michelle, tried e-mailing you, but it bounces because your box is full!)

The Mike Church show (apparently mentioned on air, as well)

Two Babes and a Brain

Leading the Next Inquisition

It's Almost Time

Llano Estacado

Miss Underestimated

Army Squirrels Standing Against UnAmerican Liberal Treehuggers

This was sent to me by a loyal reader. We here at Storm Central always like to recognize the efforts and achievements of others, so to this loyal Soldier of the Squirrel Brigades ("Don't Mess With Us, We're Squirrely!)... Hooah!

Nice medal.


Note: Potential OpSec violation - Revelation of the Squirrel Brigades

Great Sense of Humor

Third Wave Dave has a great post where he's tracking the CPR fundraising effort (Thank you, Dave).

His comic strip creations are a riot. Enjoying his sense of humor...

Paperwork... Waiting

Still waiting on the paperwork to clear so I can get the orders. Worried that the time compression is going to get tight...

Hoping whatever logjam there is, clears up soon. We're all ready to begin the PCS process, but... need those orders.

Sigh.

Easy Way to Boil My Blood

There's an AP story out that boils my blood.

Ok, not really boil, but it did upset me.

Typical scratch-the-surface, fail-to-dig-deep reporting.

Here's the link.

I am a Mason.

Are there racists? Yep. Are there racists in ________ organization? The National Association of _________? Sure. Racists are everywhere.

But to label the organization itself as racist does not scratch the surface.

It's an EASY story to write. There are "white" lodges and "black" lodges. Obviously, it must be racism. (Never understood how something like that equals racism, but organizations such as the National Black Coaches Associaton, or the Congressional Black Caucus, for example, aren't. They meet the definition, but not the PC definition.)

Short story? Yes, racism has existed. OF COURSE IT DID. When Freemasonry was founded, it was not commonplace for blacks and whites to associate together at the social level (or any other level, for that matter). So, after centuries of being separate, both sides did not easily accept (and some still haven't) the idea of potentially giving up their identities in the name of curing the perception of continued racial factors.

Freemasonry does exclude. No women, for example. But then, there are gyms that don't admit men. That said, I haven't found a more accepting organization... it's universal around the world, and I've seen all types (of men) whom I am proud to call Brothers. And the skin color isn't the first thing I notice about them.

But skin color is so easy to write about.

Welcome Finland!

Well, we have another new visitor... someone from Finland paid a visit today. We are very happy to have you.

Thank you for stopping by, and please, come back again.

Presidential Election

Just a thought... Clinton (Hillary, not the other one) is of course considering running for President in 2008.

Is there no one else?

We just passed 300 million, according to the turnstile counters on the Southern border.

In the 300 million, all we can find are relatives of former Presidents?

How's it going to look in the history books some decades from now, when reviewing a list of Presidents it goes Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton... what, will Jeb Bush be next?

Is there no one else? Attention Smith, Jones, anyone else... come on. Let's break out of this routine.

This is not an anti-Hillary post. (And for those who might interpret it, it's not anti-Bush either.)

Come on, America. Surely we're more creative than this.

How Are We Doing?

Ellicia's radiation treatment has ended. Her steroid treatment is continuing. And, since the doctor isn't comfortable with the long gap before we'll reach "competent medical care" in the States, he's started her on an interim chemotherapy treatment.

So far, so good...

We're still waiting for the orders paperwork. And getting a little nervous, on that. The window for accomplishing everything will grow smaller and smaller, making it more intense of a move.

But, what can you do?

Hopefully soon... and then we can shift everything into high gear!

Two Videos You'll Enjoy

Ok, maybe enjoy. Depends I suppose if you like the music, but even if you don't...

(And some of you will have to allow yourselves to be amazed that anyone from the Navy could be this talented... hahaha)

But, you'll be impressed. I've seen stuff like this downrange, so it's not just the Navy. That said, please take a peek and look at the teamwork and unit cohesiveness shown on the videos.

(Please Note: No Army units violated OpSec in the filming of these videos.)


OutKast's "Hey Ya"

Black-eyed Peas' "Pump It"

Feeling the Support

By the numbers, the response to the auction and fundraiser has been beyond our belief.

Yes, the funds raised has been phenomenal. We are closer to being able to afford many of the expenses that are forthcoming. And then, there's hope for the expenses we haven't even forecast yet. And Blackfive even suggested perhaps starting a scholarship fund for the kids... I'd never considered that, but... maybe?


What has truly stunned us has been the messages of support. In the donations, there are often words of support thanking ME! I am just a Soldier... I am surprised and humbled by this. Ellicia is the one who is so strong, and she gets my tremendous respect and adoration. I don't know how she does it, every day, so strong.

We're touched, too, by those who give when in need themselves. From the hastily scrawled note in the mail saying times were tight, but enclosing $5... to a donation of the last dollars in someone's PayPal account.

How do we thank all of you? How do we repay your generosity?

It is an Honor to serve my country knowing that people like we've now encountered are numbered amongst its citizens.

(Oh, and for those who say that support for the military is waning... I disagree. Judging by the content of the messages, the sheer number, and the spread all over the countryside... Thank you. Hooah!)

On The Trash Heap of History

Onto the Trash Heap of History is where events and facts go when we forget. When we fail to remember the past, and what is there to teach us. Even the human elements of the story.

Conservative Propoganda has an excellent story of tragedy, loss, and love that, if we fail to remind ourselves, is destined to end up on the trash heap of history.

Always remember.

What a Wonderful Day

We went over to the base today. First, stopped off for church with our wonderful chaplain. Base services don't tend to be packed to the gills, but they always have the feel of family.

From there, we went to the Bazaar. Pure window shopping... we can't afford anything at the moment, and we are also preparing to move. This is the time before the PCS when you purge as much as you can from your household to make the weight limits and avoid extra charges. Last thing we need to do is get more stuff!

It was nice to window shop, though... Lots of pretty goodies. And got to show some helicopters to the kids. Even if it's from a couple of hundred yards away... they do love their helicopters.

And on the way out... there were some members from the local Eastern Star selling Funnel Cakes!!!! Wow... what a treat.

Went to Burger King, with our dessert in tow, and fed the crowd. And while there, we had a ball. It was like Thomas grew a month in front of us. He played with another child there, and we had a ball... it was so wonderful...

We came home, and I was finally (after two days of frustration) able to get Blogger to work.

It's been a great day (with the definite exception of the Panthers losing)...

Tomorrow? Back to the routine. Sigh.

Standing At The Altar

SGT Hook has a very moving piece today. Almost cried... I can certainly empathize... I urge you all to go take a look.

And to my special bride, I'd say, "I Do," all over again.