Christmas time once again

Tis the season, Merry Christmas to one and all. To all the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines deployed out and away from your families, be safe brothers and sisters, you are always in our prayers.

Saying goodbye again.

For a third time I bid those winter blue eyes goodbye.

Setting sail again?

My time in Korea is coming to a close. I regret this, as I do enjoy being here. There is good news, I looks like I may be going to Poland next. When I received this news, my heart did lighten. A new adventure in a new land, just what the doctor called for. Plus from Poland, I can visit all the places in Europe that I have wanted to see (and see if all those jokes are accurate :D).

Grin

Movie Reviews

Hehe, guess college level has slipped abit.

The front fell off

World wide politicians are politicians.

Just leave it alone.

One of the things that strikes me most when watching all the "controversy" in the news is how easy it would be solve it all. Just leave each other alone.

Someone doesn't share your religious beliefs, mind your own life and let them have their own beliefs. Someone has a different sexual orientation than you, stop trying to "fix them" and get own with your life. Different political view, keep it to yourself and let them do the same. People waste so much time, energy, and emotion trying to justify their own views that they trample the beliefs of others. Be secure enough in yourself to let people disagree with you.

Gay marriage
Personally, if 2 men or women want to tie the knot, I have no problem with it. What 2 consenting adults do is their own business. What I do have a problem with is being told that people have to accept it. Forcing someone to accept your view is just as bad as the people who call it an abomination.

Religion
I consider myself a Christian. If you are a Buddhist, Muslim, Atheist, Pagan, or Trekkie that is between you and your deity. It is your right as a human being to believe or not believe as you see fit. Condemning what religion someone follows, or mocking them because they have a religion is intolerance at it's worst.

Politics
I am neither Republican nor Democrat. I don't care what your political science professor thinks of George W. Bush. I don't want to hear a 30 minute regurgitated speech on how right or wrong a politician is. Getting overly emotional when someone has a different view on a question you brought up is childish. Let them have their views, and you keep your own.

All in all I truly believe that the world would be a better place if folks would leave each other alone.

Apologetic for being an American?

"Americans can actually go to dinner parties and cocktail receptions around the world today and not have to apologize for the United States the way they have had to do the last several years. The election has made life a little bit easier for Americans living and traveling abroad to hold their head up high again." -John Quelch, the senior associate dean at Harvard Business School.

Apologize for the United States? This bit really sticks in my craw. I have attended many dinner and cocktail parties around the world, never have I nor would I apologize for the United States. Does my country do things I disagree with? Yep. Would I ever apologize for my country or for being an American? Not a chance in hell, nor dose anyone that knows me expect me to.

TSA psychoanalysis

Over the last few years I have been doing a lot of travel for business (just got my gold level sky miles). The TSA has been a constant pain in the bum. Before you start in with the whole "They're just trying to protect us", take a look at the people they have. Not many Nobel Prize winners there. The Draconian rules ("Sir, we need to x-ray your belt, shoes, jacket, and wallet. Also you have flagged for heightened security check so you need to step out of line and over behind this screen while we hand search your luggage."), after flying for 14 hours tends to put me in a bad mood. So you can just imagine how excited I was to hear that now the TSA will be looking for suspicious behavior. Oh this is going to go well.

PC strikes again, and I didn't see that one coming

So, the term "British" is found to be offensive in British Isles. Well, I guess it is nice to see all the Political Correctness idiots are not just confined to the United States.

Update

With all the controversy over Proposition 8 in California, Sir Elton John has voiced his views.

Dark Side of Oz

Happy Birthday, Jar heads!!

Being how it's the Marine Corps birthday, figured I give them a solid "Semper Fi!". Being an ex-sailor, I've always had a soft spot for the devil dogs.

The friendly rivalry between the armed forced is tradition. Each branch has a multitude of nicknames for each other here are a few examples.

Army - Ground pounders, Gravel agitators
Navy - Squids, Bubble heads (submariners)
Air force - Bird boys, Vultures
Coast guard - Coasties, Puddle pirates
Marine Core - Jar heads, Self Propelled Pop-Up Targets (SPPUTs)

The jokes and names can go on, but I digress.

Happy Birthday and Semper Fi!!

Rough week, but at least I'm working on my patience.

This has been a brutal week so far. Most of this is due to going to the dentist. I had a check up last week and found out I need 2 root canals, no fun. The Korean way of doing dental work is quite different from what I am used to in the United States. Instead of going in one day and having everything done that day, it is stretched out over a month or so. Tuesday I had the drilling done, and the temporary fillings put in. Next Tuesday I have my first root canal and temporary filling put back in. Next Friday the second root canal takes place. The following week they start working on the cap for the teeth.

On the up side, the dentists here are state of the art. The price is also less than half of what it is in the States. Just gotta get over how long it takes.

New president

So it looks like Obama has the win. I think that most of my liberal friends would be surprised that I am not upset. Fact is folks, this election was bought and paid for. McCain never stood a chance, his campaign was poorly run, the media backed Obama, and the difference in campaign dollars was too much to overcome.

Add to this the even larger majority of Democrats in the House and Senate, and you have a power structure that has not been seen since Jimmy Carter. I guess we will now see if Obama can bring the change that people believe they need, or will he prove to be just another politician? Guess I had better get back to regular posts, before the fairness doctrine kicks in.

This guy is great

Please sir, may I have some more?

Most everyone in the world now knows about Joe the Plumber. He has been vilified, investigated, and hounded by the media. His crime, he dared ask a question to Obama. Regardless of the guy's background, Obama's answer should be what is the focus.

Obama said, that a business making over 250,000 will have a tax increase to cover a tax cut for those making less, or as he put it "spreading the wealth". So take from the rich and give to the poor? Maybe it's time to break out the green tights and bow and arrows. More troubling than some guy daring to ask the Demi-god Obama a question is Obama's past statements and votes. When the campaign began the value was 1,000,000 not 250,000, that is quite a change. Twice he has voted to raise taxes on people making as little as 42,000. The tax plan he is proposing where 95% of the U.S. gets a tax cut was called by the Wall Street Journal "an illusion" and a "welfare plan".

But Joe is the villain for asking about the tax plan, disgraceful.

Home and back

Just got back from the US. Spent the last two weeks on vacation, spending time with the family and whatnot. It is always a strange experience when I first get home, I keep expecting things to be as they were when I left. You would think that I would have learned by now that they never are. The little sister now has her first boyfriend. My nieces are growing like weeds. I had a lot of plans while I was home, got around to doing none of them. Funny how two weeks can pass in a blink of an eye. Maybe next time I will finally make it to Vegas, or travel north abit to meet some of the folks on the blogosphere.

The trip home was bittersweet. Along with visiting my family and being able to do some target shooting with my father, I learned that an old friend is dying and probably won't be around next time I come home. My mother's (before you ask, my parents have been divorced for as long as I can remember) boyfriend is also in bad shape, and it is unknown how long he has.

So after a dramatic two weeks I am back in Korea.

new racist "code" words

The gods of political correctness have struck again. It seems new word and phrases are now "racist code words".

Among these are:

Community Organizer
Skinny
Arrogant
Elitist

And (my personal favorite)

Black hole

Can we get a constantly updated list of what words offend people? It's getting harder and harder to keep up.

Freedom and Fairness

Got in a discussion today online (yeah I know arguing online is one step below useless) about freedom. I see freedom as being able to make choices without other people telling you how to choose. Be it choosing what to eat for lunch, or choosing who to vote for. The thing most people lose track of is that with your choice comes the consequences of making it.

If you decide to have the super sized fast food meal that is your choice, but it is also your responsibility to deal with the extra calories. Want to drive a large SUV go for it, just don't whine to me about having to fill up the gas tank. Choose to break the law, don't cry about being punished. This is the burden of free will.

Alot of choices don't have a happy ending either way that is chosen, I was told that "That's not fair.". Unfortunately that is life, fairness is an illusion. There will always be someone that has a leg up on you, that's a fact. You can either worry about fairness, or you can get on with life. There are very few things more satisfying then leaving people in the dust who started ahead of you.

Fair is what losers cry about when the winner is leaving with the prize.

Not enough hours in the day

Seems like the older I get, the shorter the days get. Here recently I have had little to no time to do anything. Right now, on top of work I'm trying to schedule a trip back to the US for vacation, prepare some photographs for a world wide contest, prepare some photographs for a local contest, and have some sort of personal life (which has been suffering lately). Hopefully will get on top of it soon.

Sick of it

It's only September and I'm already sick of the election. 24 hours a day of total and complete BS. The democrats are painting Obama as the second coming, and McCain as on death's door. The republicans are sticking to Obama as an inexperienced pup and McCain as someone who doesn't toe partisan lines.

Personally I would like a candidate that is worth voting for.

Busy weekend

Attended the World Body Painting Festival Asia, this weekend. Good times, Saturday went just to scout things out, and returned Sunday to do some serious picture taking (took over 1600 pics and will have a some up soon on my Photo blog).

Trying my hand at a chocolate fondue

10 ounces of bittersweet chocolate
3/4 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Various cubed fruit for dipping

Heat mixture to a nice liquid consistency and serve

Add friends, music, and wine

Rewrites

Watched "Wanted" last night, was sorely disappointed. The story was basically gutted to make it more palatable. I can understand leaving things out for run time, as in the Harry Potter movies, but this was an almost complete rewrite. I am really hoping that "Watchmen" stays true to the plot.

Sadly these rewrites are not just in the movies, if you want real scary look into the history books in the schools today. How much of our past do we have to rewrite to make it palatable? Wonder whose plot they will write it to?

3 things that have my geek meter pegging out.

Yep, my inner geek is doing back flips. Watchmen, in particular, has me salivating.

More proof that Darwin was wrong.

"Where is everyone?"
"They are away for the exercise, I am the only one here."
"Really? What about Mr. Jerry?"
"He is away at the exercise, I am the only one here."
"What about Ms. Sook?"
"She is at the exercise, I am the only one here."
"What about Mr. Fred?"
"He is at the exercise, so is Raul, I AM THE ONLY ONE HERE!"
"Oh, ok what about Mr Raul?"

Survival of the fittest my fuzzy pink bottom.

Where does the time go?

Seems like yesterday I was just getting to Korea, now it is 3 years later. Hard to believe that it's been 10 years since I left the Navy, and 16 years since High School. It's funny how quickly time passes. Until now I have not realized how long ago I was just a boy growing up in Georgia, It really doesn't feel that long ago.

As a child you long for the days when you will be an adult, and as an adult you lament the passing of the frivolity of youth.

Something I received in my email.

I got this today, and thought it had some good points.

As most of you know I am not a President Bush fan, nor have I ever been, but this is not about Bush, it is about us, as Americans, and it seems to hit the mark.

'The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some Poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true given the source, right?

The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President.

In essence 2/3 of the citizenry just ain't happy and want a change. So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, 'What are we so unhappy about?''

A. Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 Days a week?

B. Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?

C. Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job?

D. Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?

E. Maybe it is the ability to drive our cars and trucks from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state?

F. Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter?

G. I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough either.

H. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.

I. Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home.

J. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames, thus saving you, your family, and your belongings.

K. Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.

L. This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where

90% of teenagers own cell phones and computers.

M. How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world?

Maybe that is what has 67% of you folks unhappy.

Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the president who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The president who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same president who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The president that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks? The commander in chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me?

Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad? Think about it......are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the 'Media' told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day. Make no mistake about it.

The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go. They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an 'other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.

So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans?

Say what you want but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds it leads and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized, try to defend their actions by 'justifying' them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like OJ. Simpson to write a book about how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way......Insane!

Turn off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as country. There is exponentially more good than bad. We are among the most blessed people on Earth and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.' 'With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, 'Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'

The reason I'm not allowed to carry a bat...

I stand waiting on my sub watching the democratic presidential candidate tell me I should learn Spanish, instead of immigrants learning English. I mutter and shake my head.

"You should be happy, he'll be our next president. It makes sense, Japan teaches it's students foreign languages." drones a totally unsolicited voice.

I look over into the glazed eyes of a zealot.

"First off, I could care less what the Japanese do. Secondly, I did not ask for your opinion and will not be voting for him." I snap, and turn back to waiting for my Pastrami sandwich.

"Well, you're just a racist."

"Well, you're just an idiot. Now piss off."

Walking abit

I am in Orlando Florida for the week, on the company dime. Oh darn the luck :). Sometimes having a respectable job has it's perks.

Upholding the Constitution

The gun ban in Washington D.C. has been overturned (a day late and a dollar short, I know). The Supreme Court Of The United States has done it's duty to the people. There are many who disagree with the decision, just as there are many applauding it. The bottom line is that the SCOTUS upheld the Constitution and it's protection of all the American people. I hope this is a trend that will continue, until all our rights are restored fully.

The Constitution is a simple document, it was written that way for a reason. I think the founding fathers understood that all citizens need to know as well as understand what their rights are, and simple words are harder to twist into new meanings.

It does trouble me, that while we have these "rights" we are told that they must be limited for the public good (i.e.. free speech) . A right is something that can not be stripped away, to me the public good would be better served by protecting the rights of the citizens not limiting them.

Election time....yay

So November is not even close and I'm already sick of election coverage. I have a bad feeling that this one is going to be much worse than the last one. Already there have been charges of racism, sexism, and ageism... Can we please give it a rest?

Instead of telling me how terrible your opponent is, how about telling me what you are going to do to make the country better. No empty slogans saying that there will be change, but not say how. No mudslinging, no media slant, no bullshit...

For once since reaching the age to vote, give me someone worth voting for.

Oddities from the weekend

My favorite restaurant has changed chefs, much to my dismay. It's not that the new chef is bad, but when you go in wanting proper Rosemary lamb chops it's a let down to not get them. Had to settle for the Cognac marinated Fillet Mignon. (Yes, I know how snobbish this sounds)

Had a very nice time teaching an attractive young lady how to play chess. Something I did not expect during a rooftop barbecue.

Answering "Wow, you are patient." with "Yes, spending a large portion of my life looking through rifle scopes has made me very patient.", will cause the drunk annoying guy at the barbecue to quickly leave you alone. This allows you to get back to teaching chess to attractive ladies.

Susan Sarandon says that she will leave the US if John McCain is elected. Oh no, what ever shall I do? Help her pack comes to mind.

Sneaking up behind the girl your buddy is trying to pick up in the bar bathroom (yep, got me some real classy friends) and taking a picture of him on the pull, is quite funny.

Plastic darts, while being safer around people drinking in pubs, are not a fun as metal darts. On a side note, don't use metal darts on the electronic dart boards made for the plastic ones (briefly more fun, but ultimately shortens the game).

Too cool for school

Faster than a speeding bullet.

"Hey, hows it going?"

I grin at the tiny red head

"Not, bad saw you out and about last night, have fun?"
"Pretty good, ended up drinking way to much."

I nod in agreement.

"I can relate, We ende..."

Before I can finish a shadow swoops in, the boyfriend is back.

Personally, I find the situation quite funny. Anytime I talk to my friend her boyfriend shows up within seconds. I have never had a relationship with this girl, have never even tried to make a move on her, but if I come withing five feet of her here he comes. I have set back and watched her talk to other guys without having so much as a sideways glance from him, so I have to wonder what the deal is?

Of course, there is that complete bastard side of me that wonders if I could get her to call him by my name during sex.

Have to agree with Johnny

So, there is a website that let's people from all over the world tell Americans how they should vote. Yep, nothing influences my decision on who will be running my country like the opinions of the French, Iranians, Burmese, ect... .

In fact, one Australian woman wonders why she can not vote in the US election. Let's see here... MAYBE BECAUSE YOU ARE AUSTRALIAN. The Brussels Journal, has an excerpt of some Liberal Europeans wanting US voting rights.

Did I get consulted when your Prime Minister, King, Despot, etc... came into power? No, well Mr. Cash here seems to express my view of your input.

Rhythm

Rap-pida-rap-pida-rap

Hands move of their own accord, shoulders burn.

Rap-pida-rap-pida-rap

A small red bag swings back and forth, keeping the rhythm.

Rap-pida-rap-pida-rap

None of the worries of the day matter, just stay with the rhythm.

Rap-pida-rap-pida-rap

Villians

O villain, villain, smiling, damnèd villain!
My tables—meet it is I set it down
That one may smile, and smile, and be a villain—

Hamlet Act 1, scene 5, 105–109

For every hero, must there be a villain? What defines each party? Is it definite, or just a matter of perspective?

In the movies it's a bit easier to tell who is who. In real life, not so much.

Enough

"I haven't seen you in awhile."

A shrug
"Got the distinct feeling that I was neither needed or wanted around. Can't ever seem to catch you outside the group, and the last dinner I was stood up."

"Don't be like that, Let's have dinner tomorrow and catch up. Give me a call when you get off of work."

Ignoring the growing feeling that I'm an idiot.
"OK, I'll give you a ring. Talk to you tomorrow."

The next day

"My friends want to join us, but they don't get off till late. Can we move things around?"

Yep, should have listened to that feeling

Surreal moments

Every now and then the everyday world throws you a curve ball. Not a good or a bad moment, just something really odd. A few weeks ago I had one, when I heard a Buddhist monk singing Frank Sinatra's "My Way". Today's kinda blew that one out of the water.

I was exiting the convenience store on base when I heard music. It was a kind of John Williams, climatic battle of a movie, classical piece (turns out the base band was practicing on the other side of the building). Turning towards the sound, I see a soldier with a similar odd look on his face.

"So, ever get the feeling you were about to join in an epic battle between good and evil?"

He gives me a quick nod and replies:

"Yeah, I really hope we're the good guys."

Now that's funny

Sometimes the universe has a great sense of humor. This particular story had me rolling, Free Tibet flags made in China. On a side note, my much ignored photo blog has had an update.

Tomorrow and Today

Tomorrow I have a fight, not one in a physical sense, but a fight to stay in my current job role. Tomorrow I have to convince people that they need my expertise, and that if I leave they can not afford to replace me. Tomorrow I have to play politician.

Today I have a fight, one of choices and consequences. Today I have to convince people that there is right and wrong. Today I have to play knight.

Maybe the day after tomorrow, I'll get to play me.

Getting too old for this crowd

"So why wasn't she at the wedding?"
"Dunno tried calling her, but her phone is off."
"Well, she went under pretty hard last night."

The temperature of the coffee shop drops.

"I'm sorry what? When I left last night she was going to be following me so she could go to the wedding."
"We kinda forced her to play drinking games."
"Why the hell would you do that?"

The question is soft, but has the stopping power of a train.
"We needed someone to do the trivia challenges."
"You had eight people at the table, and she did them all?"

The edge in my voice seems to be noticeable enough that the non English speaking people in the coffee shop are edging away from my table.

"Umm... Yeah well, we didn't want to be shot for the wedding, and I didn't want my sister and her boyfriend to do it."

"I see... so instead you make her do them all. The same girl who was trying to stay away from all the drinking. Good looking out for your friend there."

This really bothers me, the fact that it happened and the fact that I seem to be the only one bothered by it.

Doing things legally

Anyone watching the Main Steam Media, is inundated with how easy firearms are to get in the US. I would like to know where these revolving door gun shops are, I have yet to see one. It would save me time and money.

While I was home on vacation I started the process of getting my firearms license renewed. Most people who have never gone through the legal process of this probably think it is quick and easy. Those of us who take the time to "Legally" purchase and carry a firearm know the truth. Keep in mind, this is just for the renewal.

It starts off with a visit to the county probate judge, for me this was a half hour drive. After waiting in line you are given a form to fill out, this form is about 10 pages and gives the state permission to do a complete background check on you (also if you enter any false information on the form and it is found, that is a federal offense). You are fingerprinted, and then have to pay a license fee. From there you are sent to the county sheriff's office where you have to fill out another set of forms and pay another license fee, and from there it is to the county jail. At the county jail, there is yet another form and you are finger printed one more time. Total time spent was the better part of the day. As I type this I don't have the license yet since my background check is still being conducted by both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and my state's Bureau of Investigation. You would think that a background check on a veteran, with no legal or mental problems would go quick.

This process varies from state to state, but mine is one of the easier ones to get a license in. I am not complaining about the time or effort, I am quite glad that so much attention is being paid to who will have the option to carry a firearm. I am just fed up with how the media portrays the issue.

Bachelor skills

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Grains of sand

Whew, finally got time to sit down and make a post. Between being home and catching back up with things not that I'm back, barely had time to breathe. It's amazing how being completely swamped makes the time fly.

Snapshots 2

I am currently back home in Georgia for some vacation time. It's been 8 months since I have been here. It is amazing how much things change in 8 months. The infant who was sitting in her carrier, gurgling and laughing, is now crawling and trying to talk and stand. Where an old friend used to sit is now empty, with only the regret of not being able to say goodbye. A kid I watched grow up, is now expecting his first child. Familiar faces carry a few more lines and a little more grey.

It's more than a little disconcerting to have such a familiar place seem so alien.

Vultures

"4000 dead milestone reached"

The words seem to echo through the cafeteria. The anchorman goes on with mock solemness, repeating the phrase and echoing how no progress is being made. A panel of "experts" comes on, and with smug self righteousness, explain how the conflict should never have been fought and how it is the fault of the current administration. The one dissenter on the panel, is quickly singled out and brow beaten into submission.

The temperature of the room drops. I glance at one of the soldiers sitting at the tables around me, his eyes locked on the television screen. Silence descends on the room, for a few seconds a pin drop would have been deafening. The muttering starts from the different tables.

"Are you kidding me?"

"Bet that guy has never seen the sand."

"Way to celebrate our deaths, bastards."

"Fuck them, they don't know a damn thing."

"Leave it to the media, nice to know how much they value us."

"Vultures."

Seems, a good many of the people actually doing their part don't hold a pessimistic view on Iraq. Then again they are not "Experts", they have only been there in the conflict. I find it sickening that the deaths of service members are being used for politics. How dare anyone tell them that their sacrifice has accomplished nothing. Damn all the politicians, experts, and reporters that try to cash in on the blood of these men and women.

Constitutional/Unconstitutional

"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."

The above passage is at the center of a major supreme court case at the moment. The way the justices rule will give pretty broad precedent to the way the United States Constitution is interpreted.

Washington D.C. has made it illegal to own a handgun or own a functional rifle or shotgun for the last 32 years. This measure was enacted in the belief that it would reduce/end violent crime, woefully it did not. The law in question is now before the Supreme Court of the United States, on the grounds that it violates the Constitution.

There is much argument over the meaning of the Second Amendment, whether it it provides the individual or the state militia to own firearms. My personal opinion is that it provides for the individual, the right of the People to keep and bear arms, Shall not be infringed. To me the Washington D.C. firearm ban, is completely unconstitutional.

It's going to be interesting to see how the court rules on this issue. It will also be interesting to see how this ruling affects rulings on the other amendments.

Back to home port

Well, just got finished with another adventure. This one took me to China to celebrate a friend's birthday. A good time was had by all, and I return to Korea laden with gifts for various friends here. Curious when my next adventure will be and where it will take me.

I also have changed my rule about not wondering what is in the food I am eating when abroad, of course this is after seeing the entree "Ox penis on a hot plate" on a Chinese menu. Yep, there are some parts of an animal that even us southern boys won't eat.

So be it

Let's see...
Steaks are marinating,
Potatoes are mashed,
Mushrooms are sliced and ready to be grilled,
Good bottle of wine,

Hmm... not here yet, lemme give her a call. No answer.

45 minutes later...

Lemme try again, no answer.

Fine, another mistake I'll not make again.

Best headline today

Study: Spanking May Lead to Risky Sex

Reealllyyy? And here I thought it was part of the risky sex.

Politics as usual

With the election coming up the question of "Is there anyone worth voting for?" comes to mind. Seems like every four years it gets worse. Mud slinging, hit pieces in the news, and all around childishness from both parties. Even the candidates themselves are lackluster. No real issues addressed just empty promises of "We'll do it better than them.". It would be a Godsend to see a candidate that actually had merit, rather then trying to decide which is the lesser of evils.

Blah day

One of those days at work. Don't wanna be here, and don't want to be bothered with the job. I think we all get days like that, but the day is over soon. As always I really want a beach, some rum, tropical temperatures, and crystal clear water. Oh to dream

New gadgets

Men love gadgets. Inside even the most stoic man is a little boy whose face lights up with glee as he surveys a new shiny gadget. The only time this is a problem is when the new toy is expensive and the little boy takes control. Hence the new television I currently possess.

Yep, gotta work on that impulse control.

Anticipation

Tomorrow she returns, as with all things there is more too it than I am saying. Regardless, right here and now all that matters is tomorrow I will once again look into winter blue eyes.

Bringing politics to the politicless...

Well, that was a fun explanation. Just spent the last hour explaining the differences in the US political scene to folks who have no base reference. Definitely one of those subjects that it is very difficult to explain with out putting your own bias to it.
This branched from one of my Koreans asking me who I would vote for in the Presidential election. They thought that it was Hillary running against Obama. Guess it shows the political leanings of mainstream media when people watching it for the first time get that impression. Personally I don't back either party, I feel that both have sold out the common man for the extremist backers. I would absolutely love to see a Constitutionalist party, but that is neither here nor there.
From there the conversation transitioned over to the differences between Capitalism, Socialism, and Communism. Let me tell you, explaining the difference between communism and socialism to people who speak only a smattering of English is loads of fun.

Self worth

Not really sure how to begin this one so I'll plunge right in. A friend of mine has been in a depression for a while, and it stems from how how she sees herself. She is a beautiful, intelligent, and selfless person. Everyone who knows her loves her almost instantly. Then came the boyfriend and the breakup. It had nothing to do with her, the guy was in it for the fun and left when he got tired (yep, big part of me wants to kick seven kinds of hell out of him). He has moved on, she is left in a deep depression (she fell really hard for him). Talking with her, she keeps wondering what she did wrong and what is wrong with her. This is a hard one, wish I had something to say or do that would help her. So for now guess I'll be the shoulder when she needs one (story of my life).

The ol' one finger salute

Well this little nugget got me riled this morning. So to the City Council of Berkley, I give to you the ol' one finger salute.
You don't want to join, no one's forcing you to. You want the recruiters out of your city, fine kick them out like a man.... Oh wait, that would make you lose some federal money. They leave on their own, then you lose nothing, eh?

Winter

Got the first sticking snow of the year last night. Way to cold for my taste. I believe I was created to be in a more tropical environment. Someplace with white sandy beaches, clear blue water, rum, and scantily clad women, oh to dream.

Drama magnet

I seem to be a drama magnet, Mia has commented on this many times. Another friend pointed out that my weakness is damsels in distress (or at least the severely damaged ones). With the exception of one (mentioned her more than a few times, and can't wait for her to get back) they may be right I never go looking for it, it just falls into my lap alot. Starting to think my guardian angels are sadists. So on with today's drama (cue soap opera theme).

What they say:
"She knows what she's getting into, we've had this talk. You can't save her, let her fall."
"She's not worth the effort."
"She does not care, why do you?"

I'm not too good at letting people fall, goes against something hard wired in me. I have no problem with people reaping what they sow, but standing by and watching a fall that a person may not recover from. Not sure if I can do that. I care for the same reason I fight, don't seem that anyone else will.

Hope

"I had a job interview back in Korea today. Hopefully will see you soon." These words appearing on my monitor lifted my spirits. The thought of looking into those winter blue eyes again renewed me.

Maybe, just maybe angels can appear twice.

Born to be down.

In a funk today, think a lot of it has to do with how I feel folks are beginning to see me. Seems that lately I've become the safety net. I'm the reliable one that is always there when needed, never really minded that before. Only problem is that that is all I am now, now all I get is everyone's problems and pain. No longer am I called when there is fun to be had, now I get called when there are problems. It gets old, and I am damn well tired.

Where to go, where to go?

Got 5 days off coming up, and I need to get out of Korea for that time. The wanderlust must be sated. Thinking of heading to Thailand or back to the Philippines, some place where I can lose myself for a few days. In a spot where I need to hang up the white knight armor and recharge. Thinking to lose myself in the world for a few days would be just what the doctor ordered.

Glorious sleep

Really did not want to get up this morning, had thirteen hours of sleep and wanted more. Just something about the cold winter mornings when you are wrapped up in a nice warm bed, that makes you want to stay there and hibernate. Cursed work strikes again.

Trust

One of the hangups from my sailor days is trust. When you are in the middle of the ocean, the only people who can help you are the people next to you. You may hate the guy you're working with, but you know when push comes to shove he'll have your back and you'll have his. That is why crews are so tight, these are the people who keep you alive. At sea these are the men and women who stand with you against the sea, and in port are the ones who get you back to the ship safely. They do it for you, and you do it for them.

People trust me here because they know I will not betray that trust. Lately had a friend here who has broken that trust, not just with me but with other people in our circle. He has apologized and seems sincere, but he has time and time again proven to be duplicitous. Can't tell if it's really him, or just another mind game. If I can't trust you, I have no use for you.

Trust is very strange thing, it can be freely given but once broken is very hard to regain.

normal

I love reading posts that get me to thinking (sometimes not a good thing, but hey whatcha gonna do?). The Exception did this today, Craving to be normal got my introspection going.

A normal life, not sure if there is such a beast, but it is attractive. Wife, 2 kids, family dog, little house in the suburbs would be something. Not sure I was cut out to be that, too much left to do and see. Granted if I was in that life, I would do everything I could to make sure my family was healthy and happy, but I don't think I would be me. I can't imagine doing the 9 to 5 for 40 years and one morning looking in the mirror and wondering who is staring back at me. To have never sailed the oceans or have walked the world, that would do something worse than kill me it would steal my soul.

It does get hard, there are times I look at "normal" people and go "God, I wish I was like that.". One day I will be, not today but one day. I find that this song captures it.

Wish you were here- Pink Floyd

So, so you think you can tell Heaven from Hell,
blue skies from pain.
Can you tell a green field from a cold steel rail?
A smile from a veil?
Do you think you can tell?
And did they get you to trade your heroes for ghosts?
Hot ashes for trees?
Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change?
And did you exchange a walk on part in the war for a lead role in a cage?
How I wish, how I wish you were here.
We're just two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl, year after year,
Running over the same old ground.
What have we found? The same old fears.
Wish you were here.

Things I don't get

Lotta things in the world I just don't get, who knows could just be me.

Conforming to the latest fad. I don't really care if all the cool kids are doing it, it still looks stupid.

Believing the media. If it bleeds it leads, Nuff said.

Believing politicians. If you need this one explained, I got a bridge to sell you.

Cause Zealots. How the hell do you find time to protest things? Does your job give you that much time off?

Instructions on soda can pull tops. If you need instructions on how to drink a Coke, do you need to be breeding?

Famous activists. Just because you played the president in a movie, does not mean you know a damn thing about running a country. You are paid to entertain us, so shut up and act.

Drivers in Korea. After living in Korea for 2.5 years I can safely say you folks need to walk. (If you think I'm being racist saying this, come here and try driving. I dare you!)

Bush Derangement Syndrome. We get it, you don't like the man. Idiot cowboy or evil mastermind bent on world domination, pick one and stick to it. He can't be both. Nor is he responsible for every bad thing that happens.

Racism/Reverse racism. A friend of mine always says "Hating someone because of the color of their skin is stupid, get to know them and you'll find much better reasons to hate them.". Gotta admit that's pretty true. There is no such thing as reverse racism, it's racism. Hatred is hatred no matter how you slice it.

Socialized anything. It looks good on paper, but it does not work. Just like communism. Capitalism may be the unequal distribution of wealth, but Socialism is the equal distribution of poverty.

Anti-gun zealots. Owning a firearm does not automatically turn you into a blood crazed killer, nor will it magically cause all crime to vanish. If you don't want to own one, don't buy one.

Censorship. Almost all electrical devices today have this neat little on/off button. If you don't want to see what is being shown push that button.

Thinking about the children. If you don't want little Johnny playing the violent video game or watching the things on tv, you're the parent do the job and see above response to censorship.

Anti-religion fruitcakes. Congratulations you're an atheist, quit trying to force your beliefs on others. (side note: The belief in nothing is still a belief)

Religious fruitcakes. Congratulations you're religious, quit trying to force your beliefs on others. (side note: Faith is a beautiful thing, it can not be spread at the point of a sword.)

Just how I see a few things

Angels and demons

"Come on, show me what you got." The jeer hits home, it's been a long night I'm tired and more than a little angry. The coldness takes hold, it's been a long time in coming and I owe him this in spades. The world around me slows down, senses dulled by fatigue burst into high definition, muscles rejuvenate as adrenalin hits them. Our eyes lock, I see the overconfident swagger change to fear. In that instant he knows he went too far, and God help me, I want to prove him right. Winter blue eyes flash in my mind, she would be disappointed. She would understand, he has caused hurt to myself and those close to me, but she would be disappointed. She always thinks higher of me than I am, I have no wish to prove her wrong. A thousand miles away and she still holds sway. I stay my hand, turn and walk away. The world returns to normal speed, I smirk up to the night sky "Thanks dove, looks like you saved me again.".

Angels appear but once, but what they leave behind lasts.

Superiority, Moi?

The Recipe For seven seas

3 parts Enchantment 2 parts Brilliance 1 part Whimsy Splash of Superiority Limit yourself to one serving. This cocktail is strong!

What's the Recipe for Your Personality?

I figured that there would be rum.

Randomness in the new year

Happy New Year's

Why is being the nice one never as fun as being the utter bastard?

Last night I watched a guy nearly break his own wrist trying to win a video game, some folks get way too competitive.

Why do bad pennies always show up, but angels appear but once?

Just watched a friend's relationship go from "I'll let her know I'm buying this." to "I'll see if she'll allow me to buy this.".

Always surprising when the "or else what" results, not in a fist fight, but in a phone call being made. Very sobering to realize, as a Sergent, you've just had a Colonel woken up at 3 am. This is why annoying the ex-sailor when drunk, after your curfew is a bad thing.

"She said you were a protector, we're gonna be great friends." This phrase marked the shortest time ever to get shifted in the "friend" category. ~sighs~ Preemptively placed in the friend slot, just can't win.

This brought me down. I am saddened greatly by Mr. Prachett's news.