I've long thought there was something sinister behind the workings of the Deployment Gnome. Most just consider him a mischief maker or a nuisance. I think it is deeper than that.
For those who don't know of the Deployment Gnome, he's pure evil. A seemingly innocent gnome, who sneaks into the homes of the wives of deployed soldiers and wreaks havoc. Hides car keys, flushes cell phones, and corrupts children.
After a long thought process, I have arrived at the only logical conclusion regarding the Deployment Gnome. He's a terrorist. He systematically travels from post to post during deployments. The amount of travel involved makes me think he is just a small part of a sleeper cell of Deployment Gnomes.
The strategy: Psychological Warfare
The Gnome, works diligently to ensure the insanity levels of the wives left behind. He corrupts our children, pushes our buttons and continues to be a nuisance the entire deployment. I can just see the tele-conferences held between him and his cousins the Roaming Gnome and Garden Gnome.
He has let the air out of tires, told the kids broccoli is bad for them, and flushed my cell phone twice. Sent my son door to door to collect "cheese" (don't ask), told my youngest her name is "your majesty" and my oldest that it must be ok if her friends do it. He has previously hidden my Wii remote, only to have it turn up months later on top of the Wii! He pushed my satellite dish over, and made my kitchen lights go off.......wait for maintenace to show, then he turns them back on! He has made one toilet leak, from the bottom only to seal it before maintenance arrives.
I'm pretty sure he is trying to get the maintenance man to have me committed.
He has flooded my toilets 3 times then hidden my plungers.
So with that, he must be an Al Quaeda Operative. Damn you Bin Laden, Damn you.
The war on terror must be taken up a notch. I will get you, you little gnome.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Your Momma Wears Combat Boots!
I remember when the phrase "your momma wears Combat Boots" was an insult. The number of women in the military was minimal to say the least. It was rare that a female would join the military for any reason than nursing or secretarial duties.
Within the last few decades that number has risen to an approximate 75,000 females as of September 2009, serving in Active Duty in the United States Army. That number may seem large, but they still only make up an estimated 14% of Active Duty Soldiers. Although, some jobs are still closed for females in the military, our choices are larger than that of yesteryear.
Women are proving themselves to be worthy on a daily basis, by taking on tasks normally thought for men only. All women have to potential to break barriers, and play on the same field as a man.
Do I think women are cut for combat?...Absolutely. For several reasons.
1. I am a firm believer in Equal Opportunity, means Equal Responsibility.
If a female wants the same opportunities as a man, she must carry the same burden.
I believe this is true in all aspects of the Army. I am completely against seperate PT and standards for the sex of the soldier.
2. We are called, irrational, illogical, and even weak. However, you put our children/families in harms way, and all of these stereotypes are proven false. Women have sacrificed more than any man in the name of child preservation. Women have and will do the unthinkable to save loved ones, carry on a way of life, and defend their home.
3. I've frequently (jokingly) said, if women and gays were on the front lines, we would have blown it up, rebuilt and redecorated the Middle East by now. If you want a job talked about, ask a man. You want it done...ask a woman.
Now with that being said, I will say Kudo's for any woman who has managed to fulfill a successful military career and a family. I don't know how any woman can have a child and be away for months to more than a year at a time. It takes a much stronger, dedicated woman than myself to accomplish this task. Now I'm not saying the fathers do not sacrifice being away from their children, and I mean no disrespect to those who leave their children for deployments, tdy or field time.
I won't get into my thoughts on parent/child bonding or one being stronger than the other. I am just observing from the point of a mother.
Wearing combat boots, is no longer an insult. But an honor that is bestowed upon the best and strongest of women. A woman can never have too many shoes.~
Within the last few decades that number has risen to an approximate 75,000 females as of September 2009, serving in Active Duty in the United States Army. That number may seem large, but they still only make up an estimated 14% of Active Duty Soldiers. Although, some jobs are still closed for females in the military, our choices are larger than that of yesteryear.
Women are proving themselves to be worthy on a daily basis, by taking on tasks normally thought for men only. All women have to potential to break barriers, and play on the same field as a man.
Do I think women are cut for combat?...Absolutely. For several reasons.
1. I am a firm believer in Equal Opportunity, means Equal Responsibility.
If a female wants the same opportunities as a man, she must carry the same burden.
I believe this is true in all aspects of the Army. I am completely against seperate PT and standards for the sex of the soldier.
2. We are called, irrational, illogical, and even weak. However, you put our children/families in harms way, and all of these stereotypes are proven false. Women have sacrificed more than any man in the name of child preservation. Women have and will do the unthinkable to save loved ones, carry on a way of life, and defend their home.
3. I've frequently (jokingly) said, if women and gays were on the front lines, we would have blown it up, rebuilt and redecorated the Middle East by now. If you want a job talked about, ask a man. You want it done...ask a woman.
Now with that being said, I will say Kudo's for any woman who has managed to fulfill a successful military career and a family. I don't know how any woman can have a child and be away for months to more than a year at a time. It takes a much stronger, dedicated woman than myself to accomplish this task. Now I'm not saying the fathers do not sacrifice being away from their children, and I mean no disrespect to those who leave their children for deployments, tdy or field time.
I won't get into my thoughts on parent/child bonding or one being stronger than the other. I am just observing from the point of a mother.
Wearing combat boots, is no longer an insult. But an honor that is bestowed upon the best and strongest of women. A woman can never have too many shoes.~
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Girls Night Out
Once in a while, we as Army wives will say "enough is enough, I need out of this house and chaos", so we call up a few others and come up with our grand scheme for some Mommy time. Oddly enough, we typically have our children in tow.
We don't get to frequent regular adult female hangouts, everywhere we go must have french fries, crayons or paper cups. Usually a combination of the three. But not tonight! Tonight we were gonna think outside the box. So we loaded the kids up, and headed to the bowling alley! About the 5th frame I realized I was getting slaughtered by my 5 year old, who oddly enough had the highest score out of 11 players. (not that it was a blow to my ego or anything, lol)
As we neared the middle of the 8th frame, the computer stopped, the pins stopped being cleared and we seemed to be stopped in time. After, about 10 minutes the employees decided to impart their wisdom upon the situation. Apparently, they decided one of us didn't pay for the game so they needed to see all our receipts. Because obviously, we Army wives along with our massive trail of never ending children look like we were just out to steal a game of bowling. So we take all our receipts, stand in line AGAIN and are told to wait while they looked through the receipts and compared ours to theres to ensure they weren't 3 dollars short.
By this time, I would have paid an extra $3 and a kidney just to end this conversation.
Finally after about 30 minutes we get the go ahead to finish the last 2 frames of our game. Woohoo. Now that we've got 6 kids, ranging from 10 months to 7years who just wanted to play, climbing off seats, counters and ball returns. We can get back to "relaxing" with our friends. As we head into our 9th frame, the evening gets a little more exciting, the alley turns to Cosmic Bowling. The lights go off, the disco lights and black lights start and the party begins!
The kids could no longer care about getting a ball down a lane, because chasing blinkin lights around the bowling alley seemed to be much more exciting. Kids sliding along the floors trying to see how many lights they can catch, how well they can dance, and letting the rhythm get them.
As stressful as the evening was for the adults, I guess it was all worth it to hear "this was the best nigt of my life" from my children.
All in all, I had a good night. I got to eat terrible bowling alley food, throw balls at inanimate objects, wear ugly shoes and dance under a black light in a bowling alley. But the best part was spending the night with good friends. Who accept this evening as a normal Army style "girls night out".
The only thing I would have done differently.....stolen a pair of those ugly shoes to bronze for a mantle piece, like a trophy to prove I lived through the night.
We don't get to frequent regular adult female hangouts, everywhere we go must have french fries, crayons or paper cups. Usually a combination of the three. But not tonight! Tonight we were gonna think outside the box. So we loaded the kids up, and headed to the bowling alley! About the 5th frame I realized I was getting slaughtered by my 5 year old, who oddly enough had the highest score out of 11 players. (not that it was a blow to my ego or anything, lol)
As we neared the middle of the 8th frame, the computer stopped, the pins stopped being cleared and we seemed to be stopped in time. After, about 10 minutes the employees decided to impart their wisdom upon the situation. Apparently, they decided one of us didn't pay for the game so they needed to see all our receipts. Because obviously, we Army wives along with our massive trail of never ending children look like we were just out to steal a game of bowling. So we take all our receipts, stand in line AGAIN and are told to wait while they looked through the receipts and compared ours to theres to ensure they weren't 3 dollars short.
By this time, I would have paid an extra $3 and a kidney just to end this conversation.
Finally after about 30 minutes we get the go ahead to finish the last 2 frames of our game. Woohoo. Now that we've got 6 kids, ranging from 10 months to 7years who just wanted to play, climbing off seats, counters and ball returns. We can get back to "relaxing" with our friends. As we head into our 9th frame, the evening gets a little more exciting, the alley turns to Cosmic Bowling. The lights go off, the disco lights and black lights start and the party begins!
The kids could no longer care about getting a ball down a lane, because chasing blinkin lights around the bowling alley seemed to be much more exciting. Kids sliding along the floors trying to see how many lights they can catch, how well they can dance, and letting the rhythm get them.
As stressful as the evening was for the adults, I guess it was all worth it to hear "this was the best nigt of my life" from my children.
All in all, I had a good night. I got to eat terrible bowling alley food, throw balls at inanimate objects, wear ugly shoes and dance under a black light in a bowling alley. But the best part was spending the night with good friends. Who accept this evening as a normal Army style "girls night out".
The only thing I would have done differently.....stolen a pair of those ugly shoes to bronze for a mantle piece, like a trophy to prove I lived through the night.
Friday, October 22, 2010
East Side Vs. West Side
Throughout history there are stories of feuding families and groups. The Hatfield's and McCoy's, the Capulet's and the Montague's, Oprah and Letterman. But none will equal the destruction of the feuding Army wives.
Moving to a new post, is a lot like changing highschools. The first real friend you make will determine your status and future friendships at that post. We as wives will undeniably break off into cliques. We all want to say we left this behavior in highschool, but.....we'd be lying.
Living the military life, is a lot like a suburbian gang war. East Side vs. West side if you will. Then of course, you always have your groups of "neutrals", which really only means they don't quarrel, they just it back and gossip about it.
Army wives gangs represent the Original Red, White and Blue gang colors.
Once you befriend a "member" of a particular gang, you will inevitably be introduced to the rest of the group. By invitation of course. This may be a casual dinner, outing or something that would let the rest of the gang get a good read on your social abilities. The rest of the gang, will size you up, guage your reaction to certain stimuli and go from there. You will then either be welcomed, or let loose.
However, once you are welcomed into the gang, you are basically guaranteed the protection of the gang. Say for instance, someone from an opposing gang steals your famous brownie recipe, your gang is entitled, nay expected to dose their brownies with X-lax. If your childs toy is broken by a child of the opposing gang, we will send a message to that childs mother by leaving a my little pony head in her bed.
But if a member of the gang, decides to turn its back upon said gang, branch off, or simply defect....the outcome may not be as friendly. Traitors are not treated well.
I'm not saying they will sleep with the fishes, or even be fitted for a pair of concrete combat boots, but they may find themselves in an embarrassing situation involving toilet paper, gorilla glue and the youtube.
So the next time you see a group of Army wives, rolling up in the Grand Caravan, or texting gang signs, you may wanna think twice about crossing them. We are a different kind of crazy. We're Army crazy.
Moving to a new post, is a lot like changing highschools. The first real friend you make will determine your status and future friendships at that post. We as wives will undeniably break off into cliques. We all want to say we left this behavior in highschool, but.....we'd be lying.
Living the military life, is a lot like a suburbian gang war. East Side vs. West side if you will. Then of course, you always have your groups of "neutrals", which really only means they don't quarrel, they just it back and gossip about it.
Army wives gangs represent the Original Red, White and Blue gang colors.
Once you befriend a "member" of a particular gang, you will inevitably be introduced to the rest of the group. By invitation of course. This may be a casual dinner, outing or something that would let the rest of the gang get a good read on your social abilities. The rest of the gang, will size you up, guage your reaction to certain stimuli and go from there. You will then either be welcomed, or let loose.
However, once you are welcomed into the gang, you are basically guaranteed the protection of the gang. Say for instance, someone from an opposing gang steals your famous brownie recipe, your gang is entitled, nay expected to dose their brownies with X-lax. If your childs toy is broken by a child of the opposing gang, we will send a message to that childs mother by leaving a my little pony head in her bed.
But if a member of the gang, decides to turn its back upon said gang, branch off, or simply defect....the outcome may not be as friendly. Traitors are not treated well.
I'm not saying they will sleep with the fishes, or even be fitted for a pair of concrete combat boots, but they may find themselves in an embarrassing situation involving toilet paper, gorilla glue and the youtube.
So the next time you see a group of Army wives, rolling up in the Grand Caravan, or texting gang signs, you may wanna think twice about crossing them. We are a different kind of crazy. We're Army crazy.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Insanity Optional
Women in general, have an unrealistic idea of Military life. I blame most of these delusions on television and movies. I'll never forget the scene in an Officer and a Gentleman, when he comes in and sweeps her off her feet in perfect uniform.
When you see a movie or tv show, its rare that you don't see the "formal" gathering.
The tea parties or the FRG get togethers. Everyone always seems so happy and dedicated to the cause of supporting their man in uniform. You are never shown the darker sides of military life.
The sides where we sit at home for days on end with no social interaction. The days where even if something were to happen we don't know who to turn to. The days that get to be too much for some women to handle, and commit the unthinkable.
The rocking kids to sleep because they had a nightmare that a "bad" guy had daddy.
The days that everything you can imagine falling apart, does.
So you can pretty much tell which wife is cut out for Army life within the first 6 months. It has become almost an artform. I'm not saying its something that cannot be learned or adjusted, but you can tell by the way one acts to any amount of alone time, social interactions and crisis in general.
If you are the type of woman, who doesn't need a mans constant attention, you'll be fine. If you are the type of girl who marrys a soldier thinking Army Wives is real, you are pretty much screwed. If you believe that Army wives are perfect in any way, shape or form....well I'm gonna leave that statement alone! lol
There is a reason, depression rates amongst Military wives are so high. Oddly enough, its not typically the depression that will put us over the edge. Its the inability to accept that depression is a problem and the ability to deal with such a thing. Now I'm not saying that all Army wives need to get up in the morning and down a handfull of anti-depressants. I'm just saying we need to accept our lot in life, and learn how to handle it. If you are the type of person who gets easily offended, upset and don't have a firm grasp on your sense of self, you will never survive this life. However, the ones who can accept they are who they are, and be ok with that will be just fine. We put too much pressure on ourselves rather its to prove the media right, or to defy a stereotype. We are who we are, and if thats not enough for someone else, then maybe they should adjust who they are.
I tell new or expecting Army wives the same thing I tell my children. Don't try to fit in, make other people fit you.
You don't have to be crazy to be an Army wife, but it sure helps!
When you see a movie or tv show, its rare that you don't see the "formal" gathering.
The tea parties or the FRG get togethers. Everyone always seems so happy and dedicated to the cause of supporting their man in uniform. You are never shown the darker sides of military life.
The sides where we sit at home for days on end with no social interaction. The days where even if something were to happen we don't know who to turn to. The days that get to be too much for some women to handle, and commit the unthinkable.
The rocking kids to sleep because they had a nightmare that a "bad" guy had daddy.
The days that everything you can imagine falling apart, does.
So you can pretty much tell which wife is cut out for Army life within the first 6 months. It has become almost an artform. I'm not saying its something that cannot be learned or adjusted, but you can tell by the way one acts to any amount of alone time, social interactions and crisis in general.
If you are the type of woman, who doesn't need a mans constant attention, you'll be fine. If you are the type of girl who marrys a soldier thinking Army Wives is real, you are pretty much screwed. If you believe that Army wives are perfect in any way, shape or form....well I'm gonna leave that statement alone! lol
There is a reason, depression rates amongst Military wives are so high. Oddly enough, its not typically the depression that will put us over the edge. Its the inability to accept that depression is a problem and the ability to deal with such a thing. Now I'm not saying that all Army wives need to get up in the morning and down a handfull of anti-depressants. I'm just saying we need to accept our lot in life, and learn how to handle it. If you are the type of person who gets easily offended, upset and don't have a firm grasp on your sense of self, you will never survive this life. However, the ones who can accept they are who they are, and be ok with that will be just fine. We put too much pressure on ourselves rather its to prove the media right, or to defy a stereotype. We are who we are, and if thats not enough for someone else, then maybe they should adjust who they are.
I tell new or expecting Army wives the same thing I tell my children. Don't try to fit in, make other people fit you.
You don't have to be crazy to be an Army wife, but it sure helps!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Army Wife Boot Camp "refresher" course
I've previously stated that a lot of problems surrounding Army wives could be avoided by a simple Army Wife Boot Camp. I'm sticking by that statement.
However, it has come to my attention that refresher courses may be needed.
Now, my initial idea is something like the Army Reserves or National Guard.
One weekend a month and two weeks a year, we are "reminded" of what it means to be an Army wife.
The problem with this, is of course time consumption, many of us have children and really can't dedicate this amount of time.
My next idea is a simple TDY program. We are randomly picked yearly to go to various schools or temporary locations for further training. We could attend classes such as, how to co-exist amongst close quarters, Army Regulations, and the actual basics of your spouses job. It is amazing to see how many wives, still have no idea what their husbands job entails after 10 years.
Although the Army in general has its own set of rules, one will find that at each Military installation there are vast differences in the set of enforced rules. What is legal on this post maybe completely taboo on the next. I believe when moving to a new post, before you can live on that post a FAMILY briefing shall be held. Complete with all Army regulations involving housing and subdivisions.
Maybe a "field time" is warranted instead. All of the wives spend a few nights in the field, for training exercises. Just as their soldiers would. Maybe a few of those fun filled nights would make them appreciate the life they have, that their soldiers make possible. If people can't live peacefully among a quiet neighborhood, how can they make it in nature? The way a person lives within a community says a lot about the way they live their life.
Maybe if we had training on how to deal within our own environment life would be a bit more organized.
However, it has come to my attention that refresher courses may be needed.
Now, my initial idea is something like the Army Reserves or National Guard.
One weekend a month and two weeks a year, we are "reminded" of what it means to be an Army wife.
The problem with this, is of course time consumption, many of us have children and really can't dedicate this amount of time.
My next idea is a simple TDY program. We are randomly picked yearly to go to various schools or temporary locations for further training. We could attend classes such as, how to co-exist amongst close quarters, Army Regulations, and the actual basics of your spouses job. It is amazing to see how many wives, still have no idea what their husbands job entails after 10 years.
Although the Army in general has its own set of rules, one will find that at each Military installation there are vast differences in the set of enforced rules. What is legal on this post maybe completely taboo on the next. I believe when moving to a new post, before you can live on that post a FAMILY briefing shall be held. Complete with all Army regulations involving housing and subdivisions.
Maybe a "field time" is warranted instead. All of the wives spend a few nights in the field, for training exercises. Just as their soldiers would. Maybe a few of those fun filled nights would make them appreciate the life they have, that their soldiers make possible. If people can't live peacefully among a quiet neighborhood, how can they make it in nature? The way a person lives within a community says a lot about the way they live their life.
Maybe if we had training on how to deal within our own environment life would be a bit more organized.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Ranking Segregation?
Back in the day, it was the norm for Commissioned Officers Spouses and Enlisted Spouses to avoid fraternization. It was looked upon as taboo to say the least for any spouse of the Non-Commissioned to co-exist with those in the ranks of the Commissioned.
I can remember in the beginning for me going to my first spouse social and people gasping for air as I spoke to the Colonel's wife. I remember being pulled aside by some of the enlisted wives and getting the "lecture". That was just something they couldn't believe I would do. Being new to the Army I thought, I had just made the largest sin ever made. I was horribly upset with myself. How could I have befriended someone so "above" me? She was a very pleasant woman, who would call and invite me to do random things, shopping excursions, dinner and such and I just remember making up various excuses. Not because I didn't like her in the least, but because I was scared. Not just for the "rumors" about fraternizing, but I had it in my head it would hurt her to be seen with me, the lowly enlisted wife.
It took me a while to get over that fear. Maybe it was age, time, or just my extroverted personality saying enough is enough, but eventually you come to terms with the fact they are just people.
All that wife wanted to do was be my friend, she got lonely like the rest of us. She needed to talk, vent, relax and let herself step down from the pedestal that others seem to insist she stand upon.
We as wives DO NOT WEAR A RANK. It is perfectly acceptable for wives of all backgrounds to depend upon each other. Especially in this time of war. For the most part, I will say we as wives have come a long way in this aspect. Some of my best friends have ranked from PFC wives to wives of Post Commanders. I will say we are all in the same boat. When I see a wife, I try really hard not to determine the rank of the soldier. I don't want that to become a factor in how we see each other.
With all of that said, it saddens me to see that this type of segregation still exists amongst the ranks of the military spouse. The best way I have heard it described is the "Green to Gold" issue. (now for soldiers this term means something completely different!) Amongst wives it is a way of saying the Enlisted (green) spouses will be treated as less by the Commissioned (gold).
Maybe its a persons perception as to if this is true or not. Like I said in my case, it was my own fears creating this issue. But I will say its not always the case.
I refuse to generalize about a group of women because of the rank their husband wears! However I will say even in this day and age there are women who insist upon wearing their husbands rank and I have seen them pull stunts that even the President wouldn't attempt.
So all that I am asking, is treat the wives you meet as people not rank. I've never been through boot camp, along with the majority of others. I don't deserve to be looked down upon for one rank, nor put on a pedestal for another. I'm not a soldier, if I wanted to be judged for the accessories on my uniform, I would have joined the Army.
The rank on a soldiers uniform, doesn't automatically grant the spouse entrance to the Pearly Gates, nor does it determine the level of hell you will achieve.
I can remember in the beginning for me going to my first spouse social and people gasping for air as I spoke to the Colonel's wife. I remember being pulled aside by some of the enlisted wives and getting the "lecture". That was just something they couldn't believe I would do. Being new to the Army I thought, I had just made the largest sin ever made. I was horribly upset with myself. How could I have befriended someone so "above" me? She was a very pleasant woman, who would call and invite me to do random things, shopping excursions, dinner and such and I just remember making up various excuses. Not because I didn't like her in the least, but because I was scared. Not just for the "rumors" about fraternizing, but I had it in my head it would hurt her to be seen with me, the lowly enlisted wife.
It took me a while to get over that fear. Maybe it was age, time, or just my extroverted personality saying enough is enough, but eventually you come to terms with the fact they are just people.
All that wife wanted to do was be my friend, she got lonely like the rest of us. She needed to talk, vent, relax and let herself step down from the pedestal that others seem to insist she stand upon.
We as wives DO NOT WEAR A RANK. It is perfectly acceptable for wives of all backgrounds to depend upon each other. Especially in this time of war. For the most part, I will say we as wives have come a long way in this aspect. Some of my best friends have ranked from PFC wives to wives of Post Commanders. I will say we are all in the same boat. When I see a wife, I try really hard not to determine the rank of the soldier. I don't want that to become a factor in how we see each other.
With all of that said, it saddens me to see that this type of segregation still exists amongst the ranks of the military spouse. The best way I have heard it described is the "Green to Gold" issue. (now for soldiers this term means something completely different!) Amongst wives it is a way of saying the Enlisted (green) spouses will be treated as less by the Commissioned (gold).
Maybe its a persons perception as to if this is true or not. Like I said in my case, it was my own fears creating this issue. But I will say its not always the case.
I refuse to generalize about a group of women because of the rank their husband wears! However I will say even in this day and age there are women who insist upon wearing their husbands rank and I have seen them pull stunts that even the President wouldn't attempt.
So all that I am asking, is treat the wives you meet as people not rank. I've never been through boot camp, along with the majority of others. I don't deserve to be looked down upon for one rank, nor put on a pedestal for another. I'm not a soldier, if I wanted to be judged for the accessories on my uniform, I would have joined the Army.
The rank on a soldiers uniform, doesn't automatically grant the spouse entrance to the Pearly Gates, nor does it determine the level of hell you will achieve.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Army Wife Soundtrack
There have been so many songs dedicated to the American Soldier, particularly during the last 10 years. Its nothing to turn on the radio and hear a patriotic tune reminding us of the sacrifice a man or woman in the military will make. I will be the first to say, it is well deserved.
However, its rare that you hear a song detailing the plight of the military wife.
My favorite song is "They Also Serve" by John Conlee.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xn06ruxh2pA
Granted there are others but this one is the one that has always stood out for me.
Now I'm not saying that we deserve a full dedication of Military family based music, but I'm thinking a simple soundtrack would be nice.
For example, when I walk into a room instead of playing "Hail to the Chief", I'd like to hear the theme song to Apocalypse Now, or atleast the theme to Star Wars.
After the National Anthem, maybe a Meridith Brooks tribute.
When the FRG Meetings are to begin, I'd like a little Twisted Sister "We're not gonna take it".
For our massive amounts of post deployment births (and yes there will be plenty) I want to hear a little Springstein "Born In The USA".
But when the soldiers re-deploy and they will almost inevitably play "Proud to be an American", I would prefer to hear "The boys are back in town" followed by
Britney Spears "Toy Soldier".
Now one may take this as me being "anti-patriotic" in regards to my music choices. This is simply not the case. I fully believe the men and women that are willing to wear those uniforms so the rest of us don't have to, deserve every tribute they get and more. I'm just ready to shake things up a bit.
I am proud to be an American, but can't I be proud while doing the electric slide?
However, its rare that you hear a song detailing the plight of the military wife.
My favorite song is "They Also Serve" by John Conlee.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xn06ruxh2pA
Granted there are others but this one is the one that has always stood out for me.
Now I'm not saying that we deserve a full dedication of Military family based music, but I'm thinking a simple soundtrack would be nice.
For example, when I walk into a room instead of playing "Hail to the Chief", I'd like to hear the theme song to Apocalypse Now, or atleast the theme to Star Wars.
After the National Anthem, maybe a Meridith Brooks tribute.
When the FRG Meetings are to begin, I'd like a little Twisted Sister "We're not gonna take it".
For our massive amounts of post deployment births (and yes there will be plenty) I want to hear a little Springstein "Born In The USA".
But when the soldiers re-deploy and they will almost inevitably play "Proud to be an American", I would prefer to hear "The boys are back in town" followed by
Britney Spears "Toy Soldier".
Now one may take this as me being "anti-patriotic" in regards to my music choices. This is simply not the case. I fully believe the men and women that are willing to wear those uniforms so the rest of us don't have to, deserve every tribute they get and more. I'm just ready to shake things up a bit.
I am proud to be an American, but can't I be proud while doing the electric slide?
Friday, October 15, 2010
Flexibility
Being an Army wife means you have to be flexible in many, many ways. Depending upon your position within the Army your levels of flexibility must vary on any given occasion.
The biggest thing when dealing with Army wives is simply that you are dealing with wives. Now I'm not knocking Army wives, or women in general, just making a simple observation. Women can be the most deceitful, manipulative, back stabbing group of people. This is one area I will say we will always topple a man. At any given time a female, can look another female in the eyes and sing her praises then run to the next female and tell the world how horrible she is. Now knowing this about women, lets add in another factor....the military.
So now we not only have a clique of grown women who have nothing better to do than gossip and cause trouble, but we take their husbands away for long periods of time.
Say what you'd like about men, but atleast when they are home the women are less likely to run amuck. I don't know if its boredom, the need to see other women suffer, or the feeling like they are getting away with something, but its ridiculous.
Women like this are the reason we Army wives are stereotyped the way we are. Even though they may make up only a small amount, they manage to make the rest of us look bad. Like I've previously stated, I've been doing this for many years now so my flexibility is decreasing to say the least.
So I dedicate tonights blog to all those Army wives who stand their ground and don't fall into the stereotype we have cast upon us. To the wives who carry the torch of the stereotype, I will only say..... my flexibility is nearly gone so since I can't reach it would you please kiss my ass for me!
The biggest thing when dealing with Army wives is simply that you are dealing with wives. Now I'm not knocking Army wives, or women in general, just making a simple observation. Women can be the most deceitful, manipulative, back stabbing group of people. This is one area I will say we will always topple a man. At any given time a female, can look another female in the eyes and sing her praises then run to the next female and tell the world how horrible she is. Now knowing this about women, lets add in another factor....the military.
So now we not only have a clique of grown women who have nothing better to do than gossip and cause trouble, but we take their husbands away for long periods of time.
Say what you'd like about men, but atleast when they are home the women are less likely to run amuck. I don't know if its boredom, the need to see other women suffer, or the feeling like they are getting away with something, but its ridiculous.
Women like this are the reason we Army wives are stereotyped the way we are. Even though they may make up only a small amount, they manage to make the rest of us look bad. Like I've previously stated, I've been doing this for many years now so my flexibility is decreasing to say the least.
So I dedicate tonights blog to all those Army wives who stand their ground and don't fall into the stereotype we have cast upon us. To the wives who carry the torch of the stereotype, I will only say..... my flexibility is nearly gone so since I can't reach it would you please kiss my ass for me!
Comments?
Just a heads up people. I know you won't always agree with everything I say, just as I would not with you. Thats fine. As adults, and Army Wives I would hope we can all be mature enough to handle our differences in that manner. Its obvious that may not be true.
So I will tell you how your comments process work. You submit comments stating you agree, disagree or just want to make a random comment. You can use your user name or make the post anonymous. Simple right?
Apparently not.
Posting anonymous doesn't mean I don't know who you are, where you are located or the link in which you clicked to reach me. If you are sending me hateful or threatening comments, all I have to do is check time of your post. Then I go to my stats and it pops up not only the link your clicked but the country you are in, and your IP address.
Now the link you click tells me a lot. Most of my links are posted on my friends facebook pages, that is where I get 90% of my traffic. When you click on their link to leave me hateful messages it comes back to them. If we have mutual friends I doubt they appreciate you using their facebook page to harass me.
If you don't like what I have to say, easy fix....Don't read it! Please don't involve other people in your dislike of me. I'm here, if you feel like you need personally validated, don't send anonymous hateful posts!
So I will tell you how your comments process work. You submit comments stating you agree, disagree or just want to make a random comment. You can use your user name or make the post anonymous. Simple right?
Apparently not.
Posting anonymous doesn't mean I don't know who you are, where you are located or the link in which you clicked to reach me. If you are sending me hateful or threatening comments, all I have to do is check time of your post. Then I go to my stats and it pops up not only the link your clicked but the country you are in, and your IP address.
Now the link you click tells me a lot. Most of my links are posted on my friends facebook pages, that is where I get 90% of my traffic. When you click on their link to leave me hateful messages it comes back to them. If we have mutual friends I doubt they appreciate you using their facebook page to harass me.
If you don't like what I have to say, easy fix....Don't read it! Please don't involve other people in your dislike of me. I'm here, if you feel like you need personally validated, don't send anonymous hateful posts!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
False Sense Of Security
Living on an Army post it is easy to fall into a false sense of security.
People automatically believe, that because you must show an ID to get onto base that we are protected from the outside world. Anyone who has lived on an Army post for any length of time, knows this is simply not true.
I live on a "closed" post. All that really means is that if you do not have a military ID, you must get a pass. Then you can pretty much come and go as you please.
Well, I'm sorry to say, getting a pass doesn't mean you have an extensive background check, go through a metal detector or even pass a "are you planning on killing anyone" questionairre. All it means is you show your drivers license, registration and insurance, end of story.
Military posts have crimes like any civilian community. Sometimes its from post visitors, sometimes its from post residents, or even civilians who work on the post.
We have vendors who come on post multiple times a day, they don't have background checks. People who live on post (aside from soldiers) don't have background checks, people who come to see any post event again still don't have background checks.
At any time, you can be living next door to a sex offender, standing in line at the PX by the next Jeffery Dahmer, or talking to the stranger at the park looking for their next victim. We don't have the security people seem to believe we do.
Anywhere there are people, there is a possibility of violence.
So it amazes me, when you hear people say things like, "oh its ok we live on post", or send their small children out to play up and down the street unsupervised. Since I have lived on this post for exactly 1 year. In that time, there have been 3 attempted kidnappings that I am aware. Luckily, all of those 3 children were unharmed. However, the stories don't stop there. I've heard rumors of men, sneaking young girls off post for sexual escapades and sneaking them back on. People houses are repeatedly robbed in broad daylight. Barely a week ago, my neighbor and I called the police mid-day because of kids snooping around another neighbors home. This was only 1:30pm on a school day. The MP stated, he had already had 5 Breaking and Entering calls for the day. I could be wrong, but that number seems a little high for lunchtime.
Yes, we live on post and if it were a Utopian society we could let our children run around, leave our doors unlocked and show off our stereo sytems. But we don't.
I may be a little over protective or hyper vigilant. I won't even allow my children to typically go to the Ice Cream Truck. However, I would rather be a pain in the butt to my children and deny them over priced frozen treats, then have to make a plea to kidnappers to return my child. (no I'm not saying I think Ice Cream Truck drivers are bad people! I just think a middle aged man attracting chidren to his van with icecream seems a little odd)
Living on post, doesn't mean we are afforded the luxury of being unsafe.
People automatically believe, that because you must show an ID to get onto base that we are protected from the outside world. Anyone who has lived on an Army post for any length of time, knows this is simply not true.
I live on a "closed" post. All that really means is that if you do not have a military ID, you must get a pass. Then you can pretty much come and go as you please.
Well, I'm sorry to say, getting a pass doesn't mean you have an extensive background check, go through a metal detector or even pass a "are you planning on killing anyone" questionairre. All it means is you show your drivers license, registration and insurance, end of story.
Military posts have crimes like any civilian community. Sometimes its from post visitors, sometimes its from post residents, or even civilians who work on the post.
We have vendors who come on post multiple times a day, they don't have background checks. People who live on post (aside from soldiers) don't have background checks, people who come to see any post event again still don't have background checks.
At any time, you can be living next door to a sex offender, standing in line at the PX by the next Jeffery Dahmer, or talking to the stranger at the park looking for their next victim. We don't have the security people seem to believe we do.
Anywhere there are people, there is a possibility of violence.
So it amazes me, when you hear people say things like, "oh its ok we live on post", or send their small children out to play up and down the street unsupervised. Since I have lived on this post for exactly 1 year. In that time, there have been 3 attempted kidnappings that I am aware. Luckily, all of those 3 children were unharmed. However, the stories don't stop there. I've heard rumors of men, sneaking young girls off post for sexual escapades and sneaking them back on. People houses are repeatedly robbed in broad daylight. Barely a week ago, my neighbor and I called the police mid-day because of kids snooping around another neighbors home. This was only 1:30pm on a school day. The MP stated, he had already had 5 Breaking and Entering calls for the day. I could be wrong, but that number seems a little high for lunchtime.
Yes, we live on post and if it were a Utopian society we could let our children run around, leave our doors unlocked and show off our stereo sytems. But we don't.
I may be a little over protective or hyper vigilant. I won't even allow my children to typically go to the Ice Cream Truck. However, I would rather be a pain in the butt to my children and deny them over priced frozen treats, then have to make a plea to kidnappers to return my child. (no I'm not saying I think Ice Cream Truck drivers are bad people! I just think a middle aged man attracting chidren to his van with icecream seems a little odd)
Living on post, doesn't mean we are afforded the luxury of being unsafe.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
What Would I Have Done Without You?
I've never been a "girlfriend" type of person. Don't get me wrong,I've had female friends over the years, but I never felt settled. I've always been the girl who felt more comfortable with the guys, in my old sweatshirt, doing guy things.
But joining Army life, you really have no choice at times but to re-evaluate who you are. Its hard to justify, being married with children and having only male friends.
People don't understand, so you try to please the masses. I will tell you its been a hard, hard road at times.
But I will say that after 15 years of military life, I've finally adjusted. Its taken lots of deployments, TDY's and field time, but maybe I've finally found people that I can relate. I've spent so much time alone, I never knew it could be any easier. I'd gotten used to being alone, depending on myself, griping only to GOD when absolutely necessary, that I had forgotten to see the others around me.
Its easy to see what you don't have, but sometimes you need to see what you do.
I can't tell you the number of women, that have been base to base with me that I've never really talked to until this deployment. One in particular, has followed us through 4 duty stations, and I never noticed. Another, that has become an extremely close friend, has been through the last 2 with me.
Its funny, my biggest fear was never really not having close friends, but not being able to be a close friend.
I've watched these women, lose loved ones, grieve for their husbands, and panic when the phone doesn't ring. I've listened to poured hearts, scared mothers and stress riddled wives. Even for me, this deployment has been rough. We've had scares and traumas that would normally push a woman to the brink, but I've made it. But it wasn't because I was stronger, better or harder than the others. It was because I had friends that listened. Other Army Wives.
I'll never forget, the day the husband of one of my close friends was injured. By injured, I mean nobody knew what lied ahead. There were hours of waiting with her by the phone. She looked at me and said, "I just don't know what I would have done without you". At the time, that statement just seemed odd to me. I hadn't done anything that I was aware. But I just said the typical, "its alright" response and went on.
Well this last few months, it finally dawned on me what she meant. Sometimes just having a person who feels your pain or who can just sit there and listen is the only thing you need. I've always been the "go to" girl when shit hits the fan. I've never felt like I had any one who understood when I needed someone.
Its taken me 15 years, but I finally feel like I am apart of something. I have women I can count on, and I don't have to be the never waivering wife this time. Maybe its ok to let your guard down once in a while.
So for the first time in my Army life, I can say "its not what you would have done without me, but what would I have done without you?"
But joining Army life, you really have no choice at times but to re-evaluate who you are. Its hard to justify, being married with children and having only male friends.
People don't understand, so you try to please the masses. I will tell you its been a hard, hard road at times.
But I will say that after 15 years of military life, I've finally adjusted. Its taken lots of deployments, TDY's and field time, but maybe I've finally found people that I can relate. I've spent so much time alone, I never knew it could be any easier. I'd gotten used to being alone, depending on myself, griping only to GOD when absolutely necessary, that I had forgotten to see the others around me.
Its easy to see what you don't have, but sometimes you need to see what you do.
I can't tell you the number of women, that have been base to base with me that I've never really talked to until this deployment. One in particular, has followed us through 4 duty stations, and I never noticed. Another, that has become an extremely close friend, has been through the last 2 with me.
Its funny, my biggest fear was never really not having close friends, but not being able to be a close friend.
I've watched these women, lose loved ones, grieve for their husbands, and panic when the phone doesn't ring. I've listened to poured hearts, scared mothers and stress riddled wives. Even for me, this deployment has been rough. We've had scares and traumas that would normally push a woman to the brink, but I've made it. But it wasn't because I was stronger, better or harder than the others. It was because I had friends that listened. Other Army Wives.
I'll never forget, the day the husband of one of my close friends was injured. By injured, I mean nobody knew what lied ahead. There were hours of waiting with her by the phone. She looked at me and said, "I just don't know what I would have done without you". At the time, that statement just seemed odd to me. I hadn't done anything that I was aware. But I just said the typical, "its alright" response and went on.
Well this last few months, it finally dawned on me what she meant. Sometimes just having a person who feels your pain or who can just sit there and listen is the only thing you need. I've always been the "go to" girl when shit hits the fan. I've never felt like I had any one who understood when I needed someone.
Its taken me 15 years, but I finally feel like I am apart of something. I have women I can count on, and I don't have to be the never waivering wife this time. Maybe its ok to let your guard down once in a while.
So for the first time in my Army life, I can say "its not what you would have done without me, but what would I have done without you?"
Monday, October 4, 2010
Mommy, I Miss Daddy
Luckily for me, my children are still young enough to not feel the "full effects" of a deployment.
My oldest of course, takes it the hardest when he leaves.
My middle child (and only boy)doesn't really have any issues for a couple of months typically.
But then, there's the baby. My 3 year old, who has convinced herself she is without a doubt a princess, and now requests to be called "your Majesty".
Now "the princess" lives in her own little world. I'm convinced that she will be that child in little league playing with her toes or chasing butterflies in right field. When Daddy first deployed it took her nearly 4 months to realize he was gone. I'm not saying she didn't love her Daddy in the least. Just that she is oblivious to her surroundings.
She came to me one afternoon, and said "mommy, is daddy still at work?" like he was working late. So after, my attempt to set her straight, she made up her own story to tell everyone she met. "Daddy's shooting Leprechauns in Assganstan".
We just left that story alone. So when Daddy came home on R&R, you can imagine the questions she had.
So 2 weeks go by, and "the princess", has Daddy's nearly full undivided attention. Which really doesn't help curb her delusions of grandeur. It didn't take her long to figure out who was the soft touch within the parental unit.
When Daddy left, I knew we'd have small issues of course, thats to be expected. But after nearly 3 weeks, I still hear "mommy I miss daddy" several times a day. We keep distracted as much as possible, but we still have down time. She's become quite adept at playing the "my daddys gone" card.
Why did you write on the floor? "I miss Daddy"
Did you hit your brother? "I miss Daddy"
Its time for bed. "I miss Daddy"
It never fails, bedtime is when Daddy is missed most. Can I stay up and watch TV? No. Call daddy! Your daddy won't let you stay up either. Uh huh, daddy let me do what I want! Well sorry Cupcake, Daddy's not here, momma rules. Uhhhh, I'm going to bed. But I miss daddy!
My oldest of course, takes it the hardest when he leaves.
My middle child (and only boy)doesn't really have any issues for a couple of months typically.
But then, there's the baby. My 3 year old, who has convinced herself she is without a doubt a princess, and now requests to be called "your Majesty".
Now "the princess" lives in her own little world. I'm convinced that she will be that child in little league playing with her toes or chasing butterflies in right field. When Daddy first deployed it took her nearly 4 months to realize he was gone. I'm not saying she didn't love her Daddy in the least. Just that she is oblivious to her surroundings.
She came to me one afternoon, and said "mommy, is daddy still at work?" like he was working late. So after, my attempt to set her straight, she made up her own story to tell everyone she met. "Daddy's shooting Leprechauns in Assganstan".
We just left that story alone. So when Daddy came home on R&R, you can imagine the questions she had.
So 2 weeks go by, and "the princess", has Daddy's nearly full undivided attention. Which really doesn't help curb her delusions of grandeur. It didn't take her long to figure out who was the soft touch within the parental unit.
When Daddy left, I knew we'd have small issues of course, thats to be expected. But after nearly 3 weeks, I still hear "mommy I miss daddy" several times a day. We keep distracted as much as possible, but we still have down time. She's become quite adept at playing the "my daddys gone" card.
Why did you write on the floor? "I miss Daddy"
Did you hit your brother? "I miss Daddy"
Its time for bed. "I miss Daddy"
It never fails, bedtime is when Daddy is missed most. Can I stay up and watch TV? No. Call daddy! Your daddy won't let you stay up either. Uh huh, daddy let me do what I want! Well sorry Cupcake, Daddy's not here, momma rules. Uhhhh, I'm going to bed. But I miss daddy!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Your Exits Are Here, Here, Here and Here
We went of vacation a few weeks ago, and I was thinking how much easier it would have been to fly instead of that 15 hour drive with 3 small children. But then a sense of panic started to set in.
The last time I flew, was 3 days before the 9/11 attack. I haven't been on a plane since. Not "necessarily" due to fright, but I haven't really had anywhere to go.
Now the logical part of me, says "screw it". I know that logically speaking, I cannot and will not be bullied or frightened from the most normal of tasks. I know the odds of a terrorist hijacking the exact plane I am on are probably less than being attacked by a rabid octopus, but none the less.
Being an Army wife I've always been told, don't take your military ID on the plane with you. The terrorist will search you and kill you first!!! Don't let them know you are military, its leverage! Hmm...well there are a few problems with this train of thought. Although, it does make a bit of sense, (if you think the terrorist would let you live anyway), but if they are gonna fly you into a building, I'm willing to bet they don't have good intentions. Not to mention, what kind of leverage do people think Army wives possess? You can't kill me, who will bring the macaroni salad to the next FRG function?
So the next time I fly, in the event of a hijacking, I only hope they let the flight attendants do their inflight announcements first. Welcome to X airlines, your exits are here, here, here and here. In the event of a building landing, please put you head between your knees and kiss your ass goodbye. If a turbulent hijacking is to occur, you will notice the deployment of oxygen masks above you head. Please place you oxygen mask on yourself before you attempt to help those being terrorized around you. Please turn off all cellphones, for if we are hijacked we don't want to hear your ringtone of Baby Got Back to be the last thing we hear.
My personal plan in the event of a hijacking, is to stand up, blame the American Infidel Pigs and ask for someone to point me towards Mecca. But I'm just not sure they'd buy it. With my military ID, the cross on my neck, and my panicked yell for Jesus. But I guess thats another issue entirely.
I know that one day, I will have no choice but to face my fears and board the plane. But until that day arises, I think I will wait for the new Sony Teleporter. Granted I may reach my destination with someone elses arms, but I won't have to suffer the inflight meal.
(I wonder how many people just googled Sony Teleporter?lol)
The last time I flew, was 3 days before the 9/11 attack. I haven't been on a plane since. Not "necessarily" due to fright, but I haven't really had anywhere to go.
Now the logical part of me, says "screw it". I know that logically speaking, I cannot and will not be bullied or frightened from the most normal of tasks. I know the odds of a terrorist hijacking the exact plane I am on are probably less than being attacked by a rabid octopus, but none the less.
Being an Army wife I've always been told, don't take your military ID on the plane with you. The terrorist will search you and kill you first!!! Don't let them know you are military, its leverage! Hmm...well there are a few problems with this train of thought. Although, it does make a bit of sense, (if you think the terrorist would let you live anyway), but if they are gonna fly you into a building, I'm willing to bet they don't have good intentions. Not to mention, what kind of leverage do people think Army wives possess? You can't kill me, who will bring the macaroni salad to the next FRG function?
So the next time I fly, in the event of a hijacking, I only hope they let the flight attendants do their inflight announcements first. Welcome to X airlines, your exits are here, here, here and here. In the event of a building landing, please put you head between your knees and kiss your ass goodbye. If a turbulent hijacking is to occur, you will notice the deployment of oxygen masks above you head. Please place you oxygen mask on yourself before you attempt to help those being terrorized around you. Please turn off all cellphones, for if we are hijacked we don't want to hear your ringtone of Baby Got Back to be the last thing we hear.
My personal plan in the event of a hijacking, is to stand up, blame the American Infidel Pigs and ask for someone to point me towards Mecca. But I'm just not sure they'd buy it. With my military ID, the cross on my neck, and my panicked yell for Jesus. But I guess thats another issue entirely.
I know that one day, I will have no choice but to face my fears and board the plane. But until that day arises, I think I will wait for the new Sony Teleporter. Granted I may reach my destination with someone elses arms, but I won't have to suffer the inflight meal.
(I wonder how many people just googled Sony Teleporter?lol)
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Spirit Fingers!
So one of the obvious perks of Army life, is community support. (Not all communities, but this one atleast).
Today I had the opportunity to take my children to see Toy Story on Ice. Simply because someone had the generosity to donate tickets to the families of deployed soliders. I will say, people who do things like this still amaze me.
My children not only got to see their favorite Disney Characters, but the show was kicked off with the National Anthem but the one and only Trace Adkins!!!
My personal favorite part of the show, were of course the Toy Soldiers. As I was watching them low crawl and fall into formation, I got to thinking.....
Thats what the US Army is truly missing. PIZAZZ! I've decided that if our men were to break into an utterly fabulous line dance when under attack, the enemy would probably turn around and go home. I really think, basic training should now include:
The sprinkler, the running man, and the cabbage patch.
I think when led into combat, they should occasionally break into a step, ball, change. When they come across a possible IED, maybe a little interperative dance is required. The next time, an enemy combatant is subdued maybe a little Tango is called for? When victory has been achieved, they shall all do The Wave.
So with approximately only 4 months left till re-deployment, I think these guys need to get to work. When they come into the Welcome Home Ceremony, I expect Spirit Fingers. (all of them, not just the one!)
The commander should lead off with a double axle, a flip and a loop. I don't know what any of these words mean, but I want to see them. I then want to see troop by troop, break off into the electric slide.
When the soldiers are finally released however, I'm torn. I can't decide if we need a little Kool & the Gang Celebrate Good Times, or YMCA. One seems more fitting, yet if the other were caught by the news and played world wide, I think terrorist would be less likely to screw with us.
Now I must wrap up tonights blog, I have Army Issue ACU's to bedazzle.
Today I had the opportunity to take my children to see Toy Story on Ice. Simply because someone had the generosity to donate tickets to the families of deployed soliders. I will say, people who do things like this still amaze me.
My children not only got to see their favorite Disney Characters, but the show was kicked off with the National Anthem but the one and only Trace Adkins!!!
My personal favorite part of the show, were of course the Toy Soldiers. As I was watching them low crawl and fall into formation, I got to thinking.....
Thats what the US Army is truly missing. PIZAZZ! I've decided that if our men were to break into an utterly fabulous line dance when under attack, the enemy would probably turn around and go home. I really think, basic training should now include:
The sprinkler, the running man, and the cabbage patch.
I think when led into combat, they should occasionally break into a step, ball, change. When they come across a possible IED, maybe a little interperative dance is required. The next time, an enemy combatant is subdued maybe a little Tango is called for? When victory has been achieved, they shall all do The Wave.
So with approximately only 4 months left till re-deployment, I think these guys need to get to work. When they come into the Welcome Home Ceremony, I expect Spirit Fingers. (all of them, not just the one!)
The commander should lead off with a double axle, a flip and a loop. I don't know what any of these words mean, but I want to see them. I then want to see troop by troop, break off into the electric slide.
When the soldiers are finally released however, I'm torn. I can't decide if we need a little Kool & the Gang Celebrate Good Times, or YMCA. One seems more fitting, yet if the other were caught by the news and played world wide, I think terrorist would be less likely to screw with us.
Now I must wrap up tonights blog, I have Army Issue ACU's to bedazzle.
Friday, October 1, 2010
I'm Not Nosy, I'm A Concerned Citizen Part 2!
As we are nearing the end of this deployment, I find myself a little more "concerned" than normal. Granted I have spent the better part of 8 months alone, with little or no adult contact on a daily basis.
On a normal day, when life gets to monotonous, you can find me in the front yard, people watching. I prefer to call myself the head of the Neighborhood Watch Program.
Today is a good example. My youngest and I were outside socializing with our neighbor, who I wil refer to as the VP of the NWP.
My VP and I were sitting there catching up on the neighborhood intelligence briefings (gossip), when we notice 2 teenage boys cutting through the housing area.
At first, we didn't think much of it, but then they started to look back, look around the houses and glace seemingly in the cars. We then realize they are supposed to be in school. So we did what any rational busybody would do, we called the police!
Granted I didn't call 911, and request a swat team or anything crazy. But I did call the non-emergency dispatch number. About 20 min. later, we just knew the boys had gone on a crime spree and were to never be seen again. But...they're back??
So my V.P. stops them and ask them a few basic questions. Where do you live? What are you doing? Most importantly, why aren't you in school? Oh yeah...we got you truants now! They are explaining "poorly" why they weren't in school when the police pull up. They question the boys, and it is revealed they were just skipping school and apparently aren't very good at it.
After it was all nearly over with, another neighbor has joined in the chaos. Her first thought, was that I had gone off the deep end and the police were called. I would find that insulting, but lets be honest, I've been waiting for the police to come for me for a long time now.
I thought about the occurence later, and think, maybe the boys were looking back because there were 2 crazy old women starting at them?
So you may call us nosy. But I call us potential hero's! We could have just saved the world from teenagers who could have done, maybe a 1/4 of the stupid crap I did at that age. So to that I say YOU'RE WELCOME!
They will think twice before skipping school in this neighborhood!
On a normal day, when life gets to monotonous, you can find me in the front yard, people watching. I prefer to call myself the head of the Neighborhood Watch Program.
Today is a good example. My youngest and I were outside socializing with our neighbor, who I wil refer to as the VP of the NWP.
My VP and I were sitting there catching up on the neighborhood intelligence briefings (gossip), when we notice 2 teenage boys cutting through the housing area.
At first, we didn't think much of it, but then they started to look back, look around the houses and glace seemingly in the cars. We then realize they are supposed to be in school. So we did what any rational busybody would do, we called the police!
Granted I didn't call 911, and request a swat team or anything crazy. But I did call the non-emergency dispatch number. About 20 min. later, we just knew the boys had gone on a crime spree and were to never be seen again. But...they're back??
So my V.P. stops them and ask them a few basic questions. Where do you live? What are you doing? Most importantly, why aren't you in school? Oh yeah...we got you truants now! They are explaining "poorly" why they weren't in school when the police pull up. They question the boys, and it is revealed they were just skipping school and apparently aren't very good at it.
After it was all nearly over with, another neighbor has joined in the chaos. Her first thought, was that I had gone off the deep end and the police were called. I would find that insulting, but lets be honest, I've been waiting for the police to come for me for a long time now.
I thought about the occurence later, and think, maybe the boys were looking back because there were 2 crazy old women starting at them?
So you may call us nosy. But I call us potential hero's! We could have just saved the world from teenagers who could have done, maybe a 1/4 of the stupid crap I did at that age. So to that I say YOU'RE WELCOME!
They will think twice before skipping school in this neighborhood!
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