I BUILT A BRIDGE AND JUST GOT OVER IT

"GROWING OLD IS MANDATORY, GROWING UP IS OPTIONAL"

2011-12-07T06:55:00.001-08:00

My above post title is a quote by Chili Davis and I feel it best describes me and my two best friends. We all know Dave is my ULTIMATE best friend, but these best friends are girls; actually, they are more like sisters if you ask me.

I felt impelled to write about Kristin Watanabe and Kaitlin Griffith because they have always been there for me. I couldn't ask for anything more than what they have given me throughout our years of friendship.

I was looking today at post by Kristin and she posted some pictures of when we were younger. It's so crazy how much we have been through together. Kristin was always there when the rest of the world wasn't. When family didn't understand what was going on Kristin was there for moral support and never judged me nor my character. I could tell her anything; my worst, most embarrassing, dark secrets and she would always be there emotionally for me when I needed her. Though we are thousands of miles apart she can still work magic in my life. She can turn my day around and make me feel better about myself when I feel most insecure.

Kristin has been there through every up and down. I consider her my sister. She gets me more than anyone I know; even more than Kaitlin, but mine and Kaitlin's relationship is on another level which I will get to. Kristin and I have possibly more inside-jokes than even me and Dave. I love her because when we're together I feel like we are 19 and 20 again. I feel like we have matured in the right areas of life, but in the mental department we can be kids again and say, "Eff the world, 'Wendell & Watanabe' have just arrived!" We can go from being mature adults to teenage girls in a split second. We can walk through a store and feel like the only ones in there and start playing dress-up. We just don't care what people think of us. We are by all means respectful, but at the same time we don't give a shit. Somehow we manage to always visit each other around Halloween so going into the stores is a blast. We put on every retarded item we can find. Even when it's not Halloween we manage to find accessories to wear around the store for amusement and attention.

I can go on-and-on about Kristin. I love her so much. I will always love her. Through our ups-and-downs we always pull through and come back to loving each other 110 percent. I am so proud of who she has become and what she is doing in life. We will continue to have our years of memories. We have made so many thus far, and they are all special to me. If I could I would go back to when we were young and do everything the exact same. Even if I have to get her arrested at Flanagan's again for my own actions of being a psycho in the bathroom. hahaha... That story doesn't get old. I love you Kristin Lee Watanabe Wendell!!!!

Now on to my other love Kaitlin Griffith. Kaitlin, Katie, K.D.D. haha.... Kaitlin and I met back in high school. Though my memory is vague from being the bad drug child I was, I remember mostly memories of me, Katie, swim, waterpolo and choir. I loved Katie instantly because she was very sweet and super hyper-active which was hilarious. I remember the day I talked Kaitlin into ditching our last period of waterpolo because we had a substitute and all substitutes were vulnerable in my opinion. haha.... I was like, "...we don't need to stay, we aren't even doing anything let's just ditch." Katie decided to go with me which was fun. The shitty part was coming back the next day to feel the wrath of our teacher (and waterpolo coach) after we confessed, "We did it."

Kaitlin and I have been like sisters all of these years. I always considered her a younger sister, but she's only two years younger and as we got into our twenties it became irrelevant. Katie is my "hippy" friend, as I always describe her to my other friends. She is amazingly outgoing, and doesn't harp on the small insignificant things in life like most people do. Katie has always been a go-with-the-flow type of person and that is what I absolutely love about her. Any time I want to go do something I call her up and she is at my house in 10 minutes; literally because she lives across the street. haha.... Kaitlin is my surfing, swimming, rock-climbing, hiking, biking, drinking, pool-playing and singing partner. When I'm doing any of these things, I love doing them with Katie.

When I'm with Kaitlin I feel like I'm back in high school. I'm always on a natural high around her. I actually feel like I'm high on life. We can laugh for hours about the stupidest crap. We get each other. We can almost read each others thoughts. I love her laugh, her smile, her warm, sincere heart. She is genuine and as real as a friend can get. She excepts everyone for who they are and she is amazing at socializing. She is such a social butterfly, it's hilarious to watch her go around and talk to everyone she doesn't know.

Katie is awesome because she is care-free. I love hanging out with her.  I love her so much.

The awesome thing about my two best friends is they are friends as well. I introduced them back in the day when Kristin was visiting and now we can all have fun together. It feels so great when Kristin comes out to visit and I can have both of my friends together.

Last time Kristin came out we once again went from being in our twenties to being a bunch of 12 year olds. No one, except us, gets us. We had a blast playing dress up with our hippy-caps, wearing our underwear over our pants, wearing scarfs, glasses and swim goggles. Singing our hearts out until 4 in the morning. Leaving our own backyard party so we wouldn't further upset Dave, and taking our party to Kaitlin's car in the driveway.  Walking into 711 with our crazy outfits on and then once again singing our hearts out in the car. Smoking our lungs away because we had too much fun and didn't realize how much we drank, and they just go hand-in-hand. Having a brilliant idea of going swimming at the community pool, and then having an even GREATER idea of turning that into a skinny dipping session. haha.... Swinging on the swing sets, and also falling off of them. Walking miles to a Dennys that is closed even though it has a sign that reads, "America's best diner always open". Peeing in the weirdest places possible. haha..... Picking Kristin up off the ground. Shooting each other in the back of an alley with an airsoft gun. Causing other guys girlfriends to break up with them because they don't like the way we act (that was actually a really weird case). Going to a Korean restaurant and not having a clue how to eat the food or what it even was. Staying up until 5 and 6 in the morning and then doing it all over again.

These are only a few reasons why I love these girls so much. I can't wait to see what the future holds for all of us. I love you two so much I can't even describe it.

(Here are a few pictures me and my besties)

BOWL OF SHIT

2011-12-01T12:59:00.001-08:00

Today my friend, Staff Sergeant Marini, said a humorous thing. I don't remember his exact words, but he said something along the lines of, "Sometimes [in the Army] you're dealt a big bowl of shit and you're given two options: you can use a spoon or a fork." hahaha..... I was laughing so hard when he said this because it's so true; especially lately. Everything has been so crappy here. I wish I could explain more, but I have to, metaphorically, go eat a bowl of shit as we speak. Moral of the story is, your options are limited and either way you have to deal with what is put in front of you. Things are going to get shitty and we have to suck it up.

Thank you SSG Marini for the good laughs, and your nerdy perspective on everything military. I'm glad you're my Army brother.

TOO FAR FROM HOME

2011-11-30T17:32:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling far from home, where things are out of my reach. Things I can't control whether I'm home or not, but things that sink far into my mind that I can't fathom. I'm feeling alone today. Missing my family and everything about them. Hoping that God hears our prayers for our loved one that is going through something that can possibly be life changing, but God please God keep him safe and don't put such harshness on our family.

I miss my husband's comfort and optimistic outlook upon life. I miss that my husband is the closest thing to God that can give me a loving touch. God can always lift me up when I am down, but there are times when I need that physical touch; a hug, a kiss that helps me know everything is going to be ok. I can't stop crying today. I feel so overwhelmed. I'm physically and mentally exhausted with Army stuff; unfortunately, it's not as easy as throwing in a towel and saying "eff this". I am proud of what I am doing, but at times I wonder, Is what I am doing selfish?

I have my Army family that will always be here for me too, but talking about feelings comes with signs of weakness and lack of ability to do my job without being an emotional wreck. I know they would understand the circumstance, but I would rather just be alone and leave my feelings to myself.

FOUR-DAY PASS [OUT]

2011-11-26T11:05:00.001-08:00

Well my four-day pass is coming to a halt. I've been able to have a nice relaxing time. The first night on Wednesday we came back into Fort Bliss and went out drinking at a place on base called Shamrocks. It's a little Irish pub. I went out with Marini, Molin and Anaya. We had a blast. I didn't want to stay out late because I had the brunch with Command Sergeant Major Schultz the next day, but I agreed to go off post so I wouldn't ruin or shorten the guys night. Long story short, Molin and Anaya got pretty rusty-drunk. haha.... I was laughing so hard. I stopped drinking super early because I knew I was going to end up the designated driver which I didn't mind at all because I didn't want to feel like crap the next day when I needed to focus. So the night went by, I think about 2:00 am rolled up and I was tired and ready to go, and Molin and Anaya were definitely done. Molin was being super creepster with the bartender, it was quite entertaining, but I needed to leave to get my sleep. When we got in the car Molin automatically passed out, conveniently on Anaya's lap like a homo. haha.... It was awesome. That pretty much ended the night..... actually no it didn't, Molin came knocking on my door at 6:00 in the morning looking for his keys, still apparently inebriated. I didn't have his keys, and later found out he decided to just break his wall locker instead to get his belongings out so he could catch his flight. haha...

Thursday came way too early. I ended up feeling like crap, but not from drinking or lack of, it was because I woke up at 3:30 am and had horrible allergies. I took an allergy pill and finally fell asleep which was then interrupted by drunk Molin like I mentioned above. Long-story-short, it was a pretty sleepless night, but I managed to get my butt up and get ready.

We arrived in McGreggor at the DFAC (Dining Facility) and finally met up with the CSM. There were six other Soldiers from two different units which made me feel a little more at ease because I knew I wasn't going to have to speak as much. All-in-all it was a great brunch. The cooks, and other employees were amazing. They really made this Thanksgiving away from home special. Some were dressed up like Pilgrims and Indians. It was really cute. They had so much dessert and candy. I didn't take as much advantage of it like I normally do, but I did manage to take 5 candies for the road. =)

Once the evening came on Thursday I met up with some Soldiers. I mostly hung out with Marini and Preston. Everything on post was closed except Buffalo Wild Wings so we decided to start our party there and have some drinks. Later on in the day Shamrocks opened up so we took our party there and Laird met up with us for some more drinks. We had a nice night, a lot of debates with Preston who thinks he's right about everything. I love Preston, but he absolutely drives me up the wall with his stubbornness and always thinking he knows everything. We somehow made it through all the discussions that kept escalating to arguments, and overall had a pleasant night together.

Yesterday, which was Friday I got to sleep in. I still woke up early and got ready to head to the PX. I pretty much stayed at the PX all day. Hanging out with a few friends and also playing on my computer. Later I met up with Marini and Preston and we went to see Breaking Dawn at the movies. Marini and I were super engaged and Preston was pretty much in hell. haha..... He rated it, "...the worst movie [he's] seen in 5 years". I was dying laughing. I could tell how uncomfortable he was throughout the entire movie. After the movie I called it a night. I was pretty tired and didn't feel like drinking so I went to sleep early.

Today, I came back to the PX to write this blog. I plan on staying out of my room for the day and then going out to Shamrocks to have some Tokyo Tea, and hopefully staying until 9:00 pm so I can do some karaoke. I wish I had Kaitlin with me, I miss singing with her. We were always called, "The Dynamic Duo" at 15s. I miss it already. Anyway, that was most of my four-day pass. Nothing spectacular, but it was better than sitting around all day back in the crap-hole we've been staying at.

Here are some pictures below of things I did from my pass.

EARLY TURKEY SURPRISE!

2011-11-21T15:42:00.001-08:00

Well after a long horrific day yesterday, waking up this morning seemed unbearable; however, none of us have a choice so we woke up for a 0600 PT formation. PT wasn't bad, I was glad they didn't have us running today. After PT we went to classes which we have gone through over-and-over again in regards to detainee operations and culture awareness. It was hard to stay awake, but we made it through until lunch. We were quite surprised to walk in the chow tent and see that they were having an early turkey lunch for us. They had turkey, ham, mash potatoes, stuffing, corn, buiscuits, pumpkin pie and other yummy food. They also had little decorations on each of the tables as well as bottles of sparkling cidar, Hershey chocolates, those little Andies mint candies, and nuts. Over all a nice treat like lunch today made up for our shitty day we all had yesterday. It was nice to sit together and have a feast. Here are some pictures below. One picture is of me and my friend Blain, and the other is of my other two friends, Wiist (the one I call my little brother) and Flamenco. These two are always the highlight of my days. We joke around all day together and lift each other up when we're feeling down. I love them all very much.

New Mexico Sky

2011-11-20T19:45:00.001-08:00

"I will grow. I will become something new and grand, but no grander than I now am. Just as the sky will be different in a few hours, it's present perfection and completeness is not deficient." - Wayne Dyer

As awful as this location may be during training, the sunrises and sunsets are stunning. Quite a beautiful scene to end a long day. (Picture taken outside of my room today, November 20,2011)

ALERT! ALERT! MASS CONFUSION!

2011-11-20T16:33:00.001-08:00

A German General Officer once said, "The reason that the American Army does so well in wartime, is that war is chaos, and the American Army practices chaos on a daily basis."

I couldn't agree more on this quote, mostly on the "chaos" that is practiced on a daily basis. I'm astonished how unorganized the Army can be at times. This Moblization for our deployment is utterly unmotivating, and mentally exhausting. We have done pre-deployment task at least 3-4 times. Due to the lack of care, our training certificates that we have turned in numerous times have once again been "lost". It is also irritating that our leadership puts out information that we need to do more online training, and that it has to be done in a few hours; at a location where most Soldiers have no internet access, and no printers. Not only that, but the websites we have to use are always down or not supported by our computers. I have completely lost my mind and respect for the way the Army, more-so our leadership, handles business. I am fortunate to have a computer and I paid for internet access; however, I am unfortunate in the fact that I can not log on to any of these courses because none of them work. I'm losing all motivation at this point. I can't wait to get to where our mission is and for all of this non-sense to be over.

More Writing, Less Drama

2011-11-19T12:58:00.000-08:00

Well I haven't updated or posted on my blog since 2009, but I figured this would be the best way to keep family and friends involved in my everyday Army life. I was tired of Facebook and the drama that came along with it. While sometimes it was self-inflicted, there were more unnecessary episodes than needed on others parts. Long-story-short, I'm over it! Also, if you don't like what you see or read on my blog, then get the hell off. I'm not going to leave out nor sugar-coat who I am or what I do. Take me as I am, or go somewhere else.

Although I am unable to talk about most training and missions I do throughout this deployment I can post pictures of the fun times I will go through. I can ensure you that some may include crazy party pictures, but what do you expect... I'm a Soldier that is deployed in an "alcohol approved" location.

I am excited for the next year, but also sad. I'm already feeling the sadness of the fact that I will not return home for a long time to come. Normally, leaving does not effect me to the point of being sad, but it has this time. Many Soldiers get to go home for the holiday coming up, but I will be stuck here on base (which is currently a crappy location). On the bright side of things I get to go to a Thanksgiving dinner with a Command Sergeant Major. I am excited, but a little nervous. It always takes me a while to open up to higher-ranking Soldiers. I know we all put our undergarments on one leg at a time, but there is something nerve-racking about being around a CSM (Command Sergeant Major). I'm just glad there will be another Soldier with me; unfortunately, he's a really quiet Specialist (lower ranking than I), so I imagine I will have to do most of the talking. Another thing is I imagine the CSM will want to talk about Military mumbo-jumbo which I really don't like. Although I have learned the in-and-outs of all the Army acronym lingo, there are still things that sounds like a foreign language to me. I either do one of two things depending on my mood; I will either ask, "What does that stand for?" Or I will just shake my head as if I know what the hell they're talking about in hopes they won't ask me questions about it later.

So I'm glad to be back on my blogspot. It's been years since I've been on here, and I'm actually glad that deleting Facebook has left me no other option to post my feelings anywhere but here. If anything, it helps me get back into writing which I really need to improve on. ;) Pictures will be soon-to-come. I have a few on my phone I will have to transfer. Take care! I will be back soon.

PICTURES FROM TOP TO BOTTOM:
1. Me and my parents before I left.
2. Me and David before I left.
3. Getting ready to leave for MOB site.
4. Putting on a fashion show while I was digging for gear I needed. haha.....
5. Wiist, who I call my little brother, getting picked on by CPL Orr.
6. Picture of our MOB site where we are living.
7. Our rooms that always remind me of an orphanage. No personal space PERIOD.

THE FINAL WEEKEND!

2009-02-15T17:50:00.000-08:00

THE TIME HAS FINALLY COME; MY LAST WEEKEND HERE AT FORT JACKSON. ME AND MY FRIENDS DECIDED TO GO OUT AND CELEBRATE. HERE'S A FEW PICS OF ALL OF US!

A FRIDAY AT MAGRUDERS ON BASE!

2009-02-07T08:09:00.001-08:00

DRIVE ON

2009-02-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

Well I have exactly two weeks left here in South Carolina. I'm pretty tired today. I guess I'm more mentally exhausted than physically. I can't wait to get home and see everyone. I can't wait to grab my wetsuit and surf board and head down to Sunset Beach. I can't wait to go out with Dave and grab a nice cold beer! = ) I can't wait to go to Disneyland again. I can't wait to go to Down Town Fullerton. I can't wait to see my mom and dad. I can't wait to see my nieces and nephews. I can't wait to see my brother and sister and their spouses. I can't wait to drive my own car again. I can't wait to tan in the sand. I can't wait to see my house since it's been redone. I can't wait to see my cats. I can't wait to see my Uncle Eli and Aunt Lori. I can't wait to go hiking. I can't wait to go rock climbing. I can't wait for my next skydive session which has been on hold since I've gotten here. I can't wait to be back in Cali. I also can't wait to get deployed. = )

Now for the opposite side of the spectrum; I'm going to miss the hell out of South Carolina. I've met so many awesome people here. It's been a great experience gettting to meet all of my friends here that I will keep in touch with for years down the road. I'm going to miss TSB. I'm going to miss my rack. I'm going to miss the latrine and the same shower nozzle I use everyday. I'm going to miss morning formation when 1st Sergeant says stupid shit to make all of us laugh. I'm going to miss the DFAC and the crappy food they serve. I'm going to miss the smoke deck and having random conversations. I'm going to miss looking up at the second floor window in which my friend use to live in. I'm going to miss going to Magruders for pitchers of beer. I'm going to miss going down to Five Points and having a blast and Bey's. I'm going to miss driving down Forest Drive and seeing all the Bojangle's! lol.... I'm going to miss all the memories I have made here. I guess it's time to move on and make memories some place else. This has been such an unforgetable time in my life. I am so glad I decided to come into the Army. I will have these times to hold on to for the rest of my life.

Life will move on, and so will I. To all of my friends from TSB, I love you and will always hold a place for you in my heart. I'm sad to see you go, and sad to be leaving soon. We shall all meet again sometime.

2009-02-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

2009-01-31T13:14:00.000-08:00

How New Years went down!

2009-01-01T17:21:00.000-08:00

So my New Years turned out to be pretty fun. It was probably the most ghetto New Year celebration, but we had to make-do with the fact that we couldn't leave base.

I spent my New Year with Williams, Dorfort and Jones. Williams and Dorfort bought Bailey's, Vodka and Cranberry juice, so we just sat in Williams SUV and drank. We got permission from the Sergeant on ACQ that we could drink as long as we weren't obnoxious. At first we were in the car trying to be all quiet so we wouldn't draw any attention to ourselves, but by the end of the night we had nearly polished off the bottles and we were playing loud music and dancing in the parking lot. haha... I had to say I had a lot of fun. We had a blast dancing from 2008 into 2009.

I COULD have asked for a better New Year. But this New Year will be a great memory to keep. I will always remember 0001 in 2009!

Bringing in the New Year Barracks Style

2008-12-31T10:26:00.000-08:00

Well today I have to say is the first day that I'm not completely happy. I'm not mad, sad, or depressed; I guess I'm just a little irritable, or maybe I AM a tad bit of all of those. Anyway, I'm sure I'm just feeling a bit bummed because I'm really tired today. Last night I had to work a 12 hour shift, which isn't too bad, but we didn't finish until seven in the morning. Then we were told we could sleep in, but instead had to wake up for a 1200 formation.

Anyway, this is my worst blog yet. I'm still half a sleep and I'm too tired to function right now. Oh yeah, another thing, I've been smoking more than I'd like too. I know I'll quit again when I get home, but living here on base sort of makes everyone smoke. haha... It just passes the time and gives you time to socialize.

Well today is December 31st. Everyone will be celebrating New Years with their loved ones and having drinks, but I will be here at the barracks. We've all decided to have a New Years cigarette since we can't drink tonight. haha... So cigarettes and hugs to bring in 2009!!!! Whooo!!!! = ) I guess next year won't be that much better if I plan to leave overseas. We'll see what the future holds!

Happy New Year everyone!!!! I love you all! Hugs and Kisses!

SPC WENDELL

2008-12-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

THE SOLDIERS CREED

I am an American Soldier.
I am a Warrior and a member of a team.
I serve the people of the United States and
live the Army Values.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks
and drills. I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am an American Soldier.

SOME MORE ARMY PICS

2008-12-20T11:03:00.001-08:00

1st Pic: This picture sucked. I was shaving my barrette (the hat we wear in the Army) to shape it and make it fit right, and I accidently shaved off a piece of my nail and skin. It sucked.

2nd Pic: Here is a picture looking out to the right of my bedroom window. The big building are the barracks across the way, and the small building is our chowhall.

3rd Pic: Is my bed. It's really uncomfortable and makes my back hurt, but I'm still thankful for it. haha... the blankets are itchy as hell. I'll only have to deal with it until February.

4th Pic: That's my closet space. Not much space, but I don't have many clothes anyway.

5th Pic: And last, that's me being retarded!

I'm hoping to add more pictures. I want everyone to see some of my new friends. I still have to get pics with them. They should be up soon.

A FEW OF MY ARMY BLOGS

2008-12-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

December 5, 2008

Ok its day one and Dave just dropped me off. We didn’t cry though thank goodness. We held ourselves together pretty well. I think this means we’ll be somewhat ok.

I felt pretty proud wearing a uniform again. I got noticed, and thanked for serving our country. Unfortunately I had to get searched for metal because I kept beeping in the damn metal detector. Haha…. It ended up being my damn make-up case. It’s obviously a sad world when people serving their country get checked for anything dangerous to harm other people. Haha...

I know I messed up in the Navy, but I’m here to prove to myself and others that I can finish the task I start, and that I have grown into the young woman my parents always wanted me to be. I am ready to go to school, and meet new people. I hope I can make everyone proud! I’m going to miss my family, but David especially. I’m already beginning to think about not getting to be with him everyday which will be hard. I think we’ll be ok. It’s funny, I already feel like David, because some kid came up to me asking me lame military questions and all I could think was, go away kid why are you talking to me……. Haha…. I know Dave always gets annoyed when people talk to him or ask him random questions like, “where did you get your tattoos done…” Haha…… I’m going to miss Dave so much. I’ll never laugh the same with anyone else.

Ok Journal, I am on the plane right now. I’m starving but don’t want to eat. There is also a little boy sitting right in front of me that reminds me of Jakie so that kind of makes me sad. Anyway I know I’m kind of rambling. But I have to say one more thing. I just read the letter that Dave gave me because I couldn’t wait any longer. It was really nice to read. I’ll carry it around with me every day, and read it every day as well. I did tear up when I read it. But they were happy tears because I know we’re going to be ok, and I know that we love each other very much, and no one is going to come between us. Neither is a short 2 month period of being away from each other.

December 6, 2008

Only at day two of my stay; it was actually a really nice day. I woke up at around 10. I got up and took a shower. I had to get use to showering with other girls again, but it wasn’t too horrible, but the girl in the shower had a huge bush and it was totally disgusting. Haha… After I got ready I went to the Chow Hall with my roommate. It was completely disgusting. It was the type of food you see in movies. It looks like slop. The only thing I could stomach was green beans and a salad, and they were both equally disgusting.

So after Chow I took a walk to the PX. It’s a 6 mile walk round trip. It was really nice to get outside and look at the trees and buildings; there isn’t much else to look at. The walk there seemed to take forever. The PX is basically like a smaller Wal-Mart. Shits all over the place and a ton of people are there. There is also a little swap meet-like section that sells random knick-knacks and then there’s a food section. There’s a Taco Bell, Cinnabun, Burger King, and some other places to eat, but I’ve decided to not eat there because it’s a waste of money and calories; we’ll see how long I last.

As of now, I’m just writing, and also eating a few Triscuits. It was the healthiest thing I could find at the store. I’ve already organized my locker and now I’m just hanging out. Oh yeah, my roommate also let me borrow the movie Taking Lives, so I’m about to watch that. It is 5:53pm, I’m sitting around waiting for the chow hall to open so I can grab some nasty dinner. My roommate invited me to go to some bar on the Base, but I told her I’m just going to stay in. I think living under the “radar” will be best for me. Plus she said there is a bunch of drama that goes on here. I figured if I just remain the quiet girl, I won’t get caught up in all the bullshit. It’s just me, myself, and the Lord. I’ve been building a relationship with the Lord again. I don’t know how long it will take me until I screw up again, but I believe if I talk to Him every day, I will slowly get back my faith, and my happiness as a Christian. I still have to find out about the seacoast service times. I’m praying that it’s really close by so that I don’t have to spend another 30 bucks for a taxi ride into Columbia.

December 7, 2008

Well today is Sunday, my last day to relax before reality strikes. I’m really tired today do to the lack of hydration. Last night I got sick from the terrible food. I had to make myself throw up because if I didn’t I had a feeling I was going to in the middle of the night all over myself. Then to top it off, this morning I had the runs. It wasn’t too bad of a case, but either way it left me feeling really weak and tired.

I laid down for a little while to gain some energy. Then I decided to go to the troop store to get some apple juice and some food to put in my stomach to make me feel better. At the troop store I continued to grab things I needed, and then when my hands got full I accidently dropped my apple juice and it spilled all over the place. So I go up to pay and I let the gentleman at the register know I spilled the juice. He then tells the female that works there to go grab a mop, she then tells me with her attitude, “My friend, you spilled that juice and I’m finna get you a mop and you gonna clean it….” I was thinking to myself, this fucking bitch is serious, well I’m not cleaning that shit up because I don’t get paid 6 bucks an hour to work at that store SHE DOES. Anyway, I just told the guy that I didn’t feel well, and I WASN’T going to mop. I know for sure, I’ll get grief from that girl when I go back. HUH…..

After that I went on the 6 mile walk towards the PX and then back. It was nice to get out, but being dehydrated from throwing up and the shits made me really dizzy. Once I got back I ate a fruit cup and sat in the Dayroom and wacthed football. All it did was make me think of Dave.

So the day went on; I went with my roommate Westveer and another girl Castello to Wal-Mart. It was nice getting off base. It makes you feel like you’re a civilian again. It’s funny because I’ve only been here for 3 days, but once I got here it was instantly in military mode again. I constantly hear Soldiers marching and yelling marching songs; I also here the trumpet being played. It plays at 0500, 1000, 1800, and 2000. I love hearing it. I guess knowing that so many Soldiers died for this country it has a stronger effect. It chokes me up.

As of now I am pretty tired. Its 1800 here and 1500 back at home. I’m probably going to heat up some soup and then take a shower and go to bed. I’m really hoping that tomorrow goes smoothly. I haven’t really gotten to see any of the instructors yet since I’ve only been here for the weekend. I’ll just pray that everything goes ok. Goodnight!

December 9, 2008

So I skipped writing yesterday. I don’t know why. I guess I just got lazy. Anyway, today was the first day that I got in trouble. There was a miscommunication with me and my roommate and another female about what time my APFT test started. We came to the conclusion that it was 0530, but in reality it was at 0430. I was so upset that I missed my first test because I woke up late. Long story short I got in trouble for that, also for not using my chain-of-command, and also for calling a Staff Sergeant a “Specialist.” Haha… One screw up after the next. I’m praying that tomorrow goes smoothly.

Today I didn’t have much to do. The whole company (excluding the APFT testers which I was supposed to be with) had to go to a Substance Awareness class this morning at 0550. It was really lame, but even more annoying that stupid retards would make dumb comments the whole time. Basically like little kids; basically like I was in the Navy. Haha… I think the Lord is showing me what I use to look like through other people’s eyes. After that I spent the day filling, and re-filling out leave forms the correct way so I can take leave. Kristin helped me pay for a train ticket which was 95 flippin’ bucks. Then when I get with her I’m going to buy a Greyhound bus ticket to come back. So I’m taking leave from Dec 19th-27th. I’m really bummed I won’t be with Dave this year. The more I think about it the sadder I get. But I have to learn to deal with it; especially if I want to go to Iraq.

Not much else happened today. I’ve been hanging out with this Specialist named Runnel. She’s in my 42A class. She’s really nice. She’s from Mississippi. As much as I want to keep to myself, it’s nice to have someone to talk to. Plus we have to have a “Battle Buddy” here: meaning someone to have my back, and have their back. I think this Saturday we’re going to go to Panera or Starbucks to use the WiFi and FINALLY get on the damn internet! I’m dying to check my myspace even though there’s probably only 3 messages. Haha… I also really miss listening to music. I’m not going to buy a radio because then I’ll have to lug it back home.

Well Journal (or anyone who reads my blogs), I’m about to head into the shower and then go to bed. We have PT at 0545 tomorrow FOR SURE THIS TIME. I don’t want to be late. I guess we have to run wind sprints. I’m trying to be positive, but I definitely don’t want to do wind sprints. Haha..Oh crap a HUGE ASS MOTH JUST FLEW IN MY ROOM! LOL….. I’m going to name him WHISPY!!! LOL… I have a new pet. But I’m about to catch him and throw him out of the window.

December 13, 2008

Well today I'm at Panera. It's a place to eat, and they have them in California so it makes me feel like I'm close to home. As of today a few things have changed. My roommate left this morning, and I'm sad because she was so cool. I hope I don't get a jerk off for a roommate. I'm hoping the Lord will put someone nice in with me.

School is going great. Well it's not exciting, but I'm getting through it. Unfortunately we have to go to school this Sunday which blows because I planned on going to Seacoast Church. Oh well, I'll stay positive and just do what they tell me to without complainging or arguing.

Anyway, me and Runnel hang out alot now. And also another girl Carmona. She's from Puerto Rico, she's really quiet, but very sweet. I'm here at Panera with them right now. There's a Starbucks next door too, and a Target, but since I'm broke I'll have to shoplift. ONLY TEASING. I'll have to deal with being broke. haha.... nothing new about that. My paycheck will be in my bank on Monday, but since I'm only getting paid for 10 days I'll have a whopping 550 bucks. I guess it's better than having nothing.

Well I guess that's about it. Nothing much is new. I miss David alot. I love him so much. I can't wait to see him again. And mainly to get away from these military guys who only want a piece of ass.

Ok journal, that's all I have for the day. The rest of my day will consist of washing clothes, running on the tredmil, taking a shower and going to bed. Sounds exciting huh! = )

Kristin & Tony's Wedding

2008-12-02T17:00:00.000-08:00

The One-and-Only Uncle

2008-11-28T11:41:00.000-08:00

This blog is for my Uncle Eli, the only uncle that has made me feel so special and loved. I don't have enough amazing words to express how I feel with him in my life. Uncle you are such a loving, giving, and understanding person. I can tell you anything, and you would never judge me. You have the greatest stories, and you can put a smile on anyones face. Thank you for being there for me. I'm praying for you and your surgery. I hate that I can't be there for you that day because I will be gone, but you're in my prayers, as well as everyone that knows you. You have brought so much light into my life. You mean the world to me, and I love you so much! = ) We will pick up from where we left off when I return.......... I believe it was with a smoke and a budlight! I love you!

True Love Comes in Big Dorky Packages

2008-11-19T06:43:00.000-08:00

Well here he is! The man in my life! Mr. David Sean Sluk! Me and Dave have been happily dating for two-and-a-half years. Poor Dave has put up with all my crap for so long. haha... He is truly the biggest supporter to all of my random, and mostly stupid, decisions. He understands me better than anyone else. He knows how to make me laugh.

I met my Dave from work. Back in 2004, I got a job at The Boardroom Surf and Skate. David was the lead man under the owner; so unfortunately I had to listen to him and hang up clothes and crap. At work me and Dave became good friends, but we were strictly work friends because I had a boyfriend Jon, and then another boyfriend Andy. haha.... FLAVORS OF THE WEEK. David kept in contact with me when I left for the Navy. His letters were the best. He always made me laugh, and insisted that I was a "lesbian that wore flannel." haha....

Long story short when I came back home me and Dave were both single. We went out on a few dates, and then he claims I asked him, "Do you want me to be your girlfriend?" HUGE LIE AND HE KNOWS IT! HAHA.....

Anyway, now I'm asking him if he wants me to be his wife, so we will see what happens in the next year! = )

David I love you, even though your room is a huge mess! We'll work on it! = )

On the Road Again

2008-11-17T10:38:00.000-08:00

I'm off to the Army on December 5th. I will be stationed in South Carolina until sometime in Febuary. It's not a long stay, but when you're away from the ones you love, it seems like eternity. For those of you that are close to me, you know that I was discharged from the Navy. Some things just didn't go right for me while I served my time back in 2005. I have matured alot since then, and I couldn't be any happier than I am now. I don't have to do basic training all over again, Praise the Lord. I am going for 8-10 weeks of school for my MOS (job) in which I chose to be a 42A (human resource/postal).

I am so excited this time around. I just bought a laptop (after all these years) and I'm setting up a webcam so I can see all of my family; especially my little ones, the nieces and nephews! I feel like I am ready to accomplish this goal in my life, and I don't feel alone this time. I can talk to everyone and actually see them face-to-face! So if you want to enjoy my adventure, you can find me on AIM SCREENAME: wentard......

http://playlist.com/wentard