On Friday I went out with some coworkers at first we talked some work and then later after we had been drinking for a while we started shooting the shit for a while. Everything was great except for the stupid things that kept coming out of my mouth. It seemed that every point I was trying to make, I kept screwing up. We all know alcohol doesn”t make you smarter, but this was the first time I was being a complete idiot. The next morning I ended up calling one of my coworkers to see that I didn’t piss anybody off or say something completely retarded, but he said everything went fine. I think for the moral of the story I will use a quote from Ernest Hemingway, “Always do sober what you said you’d do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut.
Iraqi Things
Here are some photos of different Iraqi things.
2004 Daytona 500
On this day, I was incredibly fortunate to attend the renowned Daytona 500, an extraordinary occasion that marked my first-ever exposure to a thrilling stock car race. Before the race began, there were captivating pre-race activities that heightened the sense of anticipation among the spectators. The exceptionally talented songstress, Leanne Rimes, graced the audience with her spirited rendition of “R.O.C.K. in the USA,” followed by a powerful performance of the National Anthem. The grandeur of the event was further magnified by the presence of President George W. Bush, who had the honor of initiating the race, while the energetic Whoopi Goldberg enthusiastically waved the green flag, signaling the commencement of the race.
As the race unfolded, several accidents occurred, adding to the intensity and suspense felt by the crowd. The drivers’ exemplary skill and precision were truly awe-inspiring as they maneuvered their vehicles with remarkable dexterity at astonishing speeds, battling fiercely against each other. However, with approximately 19 laps remaining, Dale Earnheart Jr. executed a strategic maneuver that propelled him into the lead position. Leaving the rest of the pack trailing in his wake, he demonstrated his unrivaled racing prowess and ultimately crossed the finish line triumphantly, firmly clutching the checkered flag.
The overall experience of witnessing the Daytona 500 was undeniably exhilarating. The sheer velocity and precision exhibited by the drivers, along with the heart-stopping moments of the race, created an enthralling spectacle for all in attendance. Furthermore, delving into the rich historical significance associated with the Daytona 500 served to deepen my appreciation for this remarkable event. Often hailed as the “Superbowl of car racing,” this race holds a particularly special place in the hearts of fervent racing enthusiasts, serving as the pinnacle of the motorsport realm.
In conclusion, I consider myself immensely privileged to have been granted the opportunity to attend the Daytona 500. The inclusion of electrifying performances by Leanne Rimes, the distinguished presence of President George W. Bush, and the animated flag-waving conducted by Whoopi Goldberg added an extra layer of grandeur to the event. The race itself showcased the drivers’ remarkable skills and the fierce competition they encountered. All in all, witnessing the Daytona 500 proved to be a riveting experience that provided me with a profound understanding of the history and significance underpinning this esteemed race.
2004 NFL Pro Bowl – 25 years in Hawaii
At the start of the game the NFC had the ball first and didn”t do anything with it. The very first play for the AFC they threw a touch down pass. Then the NFC got the ball back and then the AFC blocked a punt for an AFC touchdown.
At the end of the 3rd quarter the score was the AFC 38 to NFC 27. Surprisingly this years Pro Bowl is better than last years due to the level of competition. I think that is resulted from this years youthful selectees to the Pro Bowl. At the beginning of the 4th quarter the AFC fumbled the football and the NFC (Lavarre Arrington) recovered the ball, but the NFC got a unsportsmanlike penalty resulting in an AFC 1st down and eventually at touchdown. The NFC came back with a 58 yard kickoff return then the very next play was a touchdown pass to left tight end (Crumpler). Late in the 4th quarter Payton Manning threw 2 interceptions resulting in 2 NFC touchdowns. The NFC took the lead 55 – 45 with 3:32 left in the game. The AFC went down to score again then they kicked an onside kick. The NFC (waved a fair kick) and the AFC hit him resulting a penalty. The NFC (Mark Bulger) threw and interception in the end zone and Brock Marion ran the ball out to the 22 yard line. The AFC drove the ball all the way down the field to the 23 yard line where Payton Manning was sacked. The clock wound down the 4 seconds then the AFC kicked a 51 yard field goal and missed it wide right. The NFC came back to win the game 55 – 52.’, ‘During the pregame ESPN showed a story about Priest Holmes (running back for the Kansas City Chiefs) going to the USS Arizona Memorial. While he was at the memorial he was wearing a snot rag on his head the whole time showing complete disregard to the rules. Prior to departing to the USS Arizona everybody receives a briefing of the Arizona being a national monument and everybody should show respect while at the monument by removing all headgear. This is not an outrageous rule. It is no different than remaining quiet at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington DC. Is this an example that children should look up to when they look at these role models?
Convoy to Iraq
Some sights that are seen during the convoy to Iraq.
New England Patriots – 2004 Superbowl Champs
Previously to the start of this game I though the Patriots were going to blow out the Panthers. This was by far a defensive game. Carolina did a fine job of moving the ball and their defense came up with some big plays. New England weren’t flawless, but it was Adam Vinatieri who ended up winning the game once again despite two previous missed kicks this game.
Pro Bowl
Attended my first Pro Bowl in Hawaii. This was a real fun experience with tailgating, football, Navy Seals, cheerleaders, and an all around enjoyable day watching some football.
North Shore Oahu
I heard the surf is still up on the north shore so I took a drive out to the country to check it out again. I just can’t get enough of the big surf.
Banzai Pipeline Surf
I heard there was going to be some nice waves up on the north shore of Oahu, so I decided to take a drive and snap some photos of the surf at the Banzai Pipeline.
Drive Around Oahu
Took a drive around Oahu to see what things are going on. Along the way I stopped at the North Shore to see the surfing competition. I also stopped along the Pali lookout to soak in that great view. Then I stopped at the Kahala Hotel and Resort to check out the dolphins they have.
Halloween 2002
Typically I’m not very good at carving pumpkins, but this year I decided to give it a try. As you can see I am clearly no artist, but I think it came out decent.
Lake Tahoe
I was in Reno, Nevada for an event and since I’ve never been here I figure it would be nice to take a drive up to Lake Tahoe to see what it was like. Here are some of the photos I took along the way. As you can see there wasn’t much to look at until I got to the lake.
Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana
I went to visit a friend who was stationed at Barksdale Air Force base in Louisiana, here are the photos from that visit.
Thailand Stop Sign
Photo of a Thai stop sign, so if you were ever curious as to what they looked like, well here it is.
Korat, Thailand – Wing 1 Military Exercise Complex
Today I went by the Korat Royal Thai Air Force military exercise complex. Here are a couple photos from that.
Thailand Countryside Between Korat and Bangkok
I took a bus from Nakhonratsima, otherwise known as Korat, to Bangkok, Thailand. Here are some photos I took of the countryside while I was riding the bus.
Ratchapruk Hotel in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
In Nakhon Ratchasima Thailand, or Korat for short, there is the Ratchapruk hotel. You can see the Main Street the hotel is on and the front of the hotel. Below are photos of the view out of the back of the hotel. It shows the what the surrounding area looks like in this spread out city in the north eastern province of Thailand.
Fishing Charter Boat – Oahu, Hawaii
Took a fishing charter boat out and when I wasn’t fishing I took some photos. Here are those photos. One neat thing about this fishing trip was that there was a mother whale and 2 calves. The mother showed the calves how to breach 1 time and then after that those calves kept breaching. It was really neat to see.
Eskan Village Bazaar
Periodically there would be a bazaar at Eskan Village in Saudi Arabia where some local vendors would be able to come onto the military installation and sell their products. Here are some photos from one of those events.
Thanksgiving at Eskan Village
Have you ever contemplated the experience of U.S. service members deployed abroad during the holiday season? Such contemplation brings to light the Thanksgiving observance at Eskan Village, situated 22 miles outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Ironically, the sole genuine turkey present was a mere display piece, with the remaining fare being the standard processed turkey provided to the military. Against the backdrop of the events that transpired just two months prior, the atmosphere understandably bore a weighty and somber tone.
Sights Around Eskan Village
Here are some different things that can be seen around Eskan Village, Saudi Arabia.
Welcome to Eskan Village Saudi Arabia
I was sent on temporary duty to Eskan Village in Saudi Arabia. Eskan is located 22 miles southeast of Riyadh and it was originally built for the bedouin in 1983, however when the Saudi government built the village they did not accommodate the livestock so the bedouin’s turned down the use of the buildings. In 1990 where Iraq invaded Kuwait General Norman Schwarzkopf commanded Operation Desert Storm from Eskan Village. Here are some photos of the accommodations and where I lived during my stay here. You will notice that to stay busy and make the accommodations a little nicer people built a fishpond at the entrance to the building. Quite the nice touch.
Hale’iwa Beach North Shore Hawaii
Hanging out on the north shore of Oahu at the Hale’iwa beach park. This photo is taken looking back at the harbor.
Waimea Bay Beach Park
Driving around the north shore of Oahu in Hawaii I drove past the Waimea Bay beach park. This is where they have the Eddie Aikao surfing competition when the waves are consistently over 50 feet tall.
Ten Rules for Dating My Daughter: A Guide to Surviving Her Dad’s Standards
Some thoughtful information for those who are daughters, were daughters, have daughters, intend to have daughters, or intend to date a daughter.
Rule One: If you pull into my driveway and honk you’d better be delivering a package, because you’re sure not picking anything up.
Rule Two: You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter’s body, I will remove them.
Rule Three: I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don’t take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object. However, In order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact, come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in place to your waist.
Rule Four: I’m sure you’ve been told that in today’s world, sex without utilizing a “barrier method” of some kind can kill you. Let me elaborate: when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I will kill you.
Rule Five: In order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is “early.”
Rule Six: I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make you cry.
Rule Seven: As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process that can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of just standing there, why don’t you do something useful, like change the oil in my car?
Rule Eight: The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places where there are no parents, policemen, or nuns within eyesight. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka zipped up to her throat. Movies with a strong romantic or sexual theme are to be avoided; movies which feature chainsaws are okay. Hockey games are okay. Old folks homes are better.
Rule Nine: Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a pot-bellied, balding, middle-aged, dim-witted has-been. But on issues relating to my daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe. If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the house. Do not trifle with me.
Rule Ten: Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper coming in over a sand dune outside of Iraq. When my Anthrax starts acting up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull into the driveway you should exit your car with both hands in plain sight. speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early, then return to your car. There is no need for you to come inside. The camouflaged face at the window is mine.
Good to be a Man
– Your last name stays put.
– The garage is all yours.
– Wedding plans take care of themselves.
– Chocolate is just another snack.
– You can be president.
– You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park.
– Car mechanics tell you the truth.
– You don’t give a rat’s ass if someone notices your new haircut.
– The world is your urinal.
– You never have to drive to another gas station because this one’s just too icky.
– Same work… more pay.
– Wrinkles add character.
– Wedding Dress $5000; Tux rental $100.
– People never stare at your chest when you’re talking to them.
– The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected.
– New shoes don’t cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
– Your pals can be trusted never to trap you with: “So, notice anything different?”
– One mood, ALL the damn time.
– Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.
– You know stuff about tanks.
– A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.
– You can open all your own jars
– Dry cleaners and hair stylists don’t rob you blind.
– You can leave the motel bed unmade.
– You can kill your own food.
– You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.
– If someone forgets to invite you to something, he or she can still be your friend.
– Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack.
– If you are 34 and single, nobody notices.
– Everything on your face stays its original color.
– You can quietly enjoy a car ride from the passenger’s seat.
– Three pairs of shoes are more than enough.
– You don’t have to clean your apartment if the maid is coming.
– You can quietly watch a game with a buddy for hours without thinking: “He must be mad at me.”
– You don’t mooch off other’s desserts.
– You can drop by to see a friend without having to bring a little gift.
– You are not expected to know the names of more than five colors.
– You don’t have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.
– You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes.
– The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.
– You don’t have to shave below your neck.
– Your belly usually hides your big hips.
– One wallet and one pair of shoes, one color, all seasons.
– You can “do” your nails with a pocketknife.
– You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustac-he.
– You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives, on December 24th, in 45 minutes.
Typhoon Saomoi
While stationed in Okinawa I had the privilege to sit through a many of typhoons. Here was one of the typhoons that I got to endure. These images were downloaded from the Japanese national weather service.