So Dramatic

I have a couple questions. I tend to have unpopular opinions. I'm starting to think that's only because I don't understand things thoroughly.
(versus the alternative, which is that I'm just a shitty-judgemental person)
So, I'm turning a new leaf. I'll start asking more questions, hoping to to inspire more conversation; versus vomiting up my unpopular opinions.

About two weeks ago the milspouse blogosphere was all "atwitter" when we read Jessica's post, "A Final Goodbye". I have to say I was first and foremost worried for her, and also saddened to hear of her plan and the douchebaggary her husband pulled. In the days that followed I've seen a lot about support for military spouses and whining within our ranks, "what about us!" Oh, and the unforgettable "It could've been me!"
Question one: Say what??
Question two: 
I know the initial question "what about us" is more about programs and emphasis being placed on what the families go through and programs directed at our mental health stability.
What's wrong with MilitaryOneSource? Personally, I've used their services before. Simple. Easy. Effective. Call the number (1-800-342-9647), tell them (it's humbling I know) that you're in need of a counselor/ therapist for ______reason. You'll be transferred to someone who'll ask you for additional information in regards to your specific problems and information (this individual was caring and supportive to me and my situation). Eventually, they'll provide you with options of a counselor in your area, even help you to schedule your first appointment.
Additionally, you can just call TriCare directly and ask for a list of all the approved therapists/counselors in your area... you get a bunch of number and options, call them, set up an appointment and press on with business. Easy breezy!
Question three: How does being a milspouse automatically mean you'd be in her situation with a husband that cheats and treated her poorly? I don't know Jessica. Outside of all the detail she provided in that "A Final Goodbye" post I don't know any details of her life. Aside from both being married to soldiers her and I don't have anything in common (that I know of). I'm not sure how her situation automatically makes all milspouses susceptible to suicide/ mental illness. I feel like, all of the "That could be me" happening is a way for people to take away from Jessica's very real pain and for some reason (that escapes me) pull the attention from Jessica .

Let me just say for all the people out there that are enraged: I am by no means judging Jessica. I genuinely sympathize and empathize with her. I am concerned and sad for her. I'm no stranger to suicide and mental illness. I also feel that she deserves all the support and encouragement that she can find! Furthermore, I love that so many bloggers rallied around her during this very difficult time in her life.

Donald Trump.
Question one: WTF?
Question two: Why do people think the president has any control over the price of gas? The oil industry consists of private businesses. I made the comment to a friend yesterday, I'm (legitimately) shocked that such a successful man can make such stupid comments. I suppose President Obama can release the oil reserves, which would raise the supply (we all know about supply and demand), inturn lowering the cost of oil domestically. However, that doesn't really seem like such a brilliant idea to me. I think we all know from middle school that oil is a nonrenewable recourse. Once we exhaust what our planet has to offer then.... we'll be... screwed-ola. Outside of releasing the reserves the president has no control of the price of anything... I mean, maybe I'm wrong. Can we ask Mr. Obama to lower the price of DSLR camera's. Shit, I really wish they were much cheaper... just sayin'.
Question three: Why won't he just go away or at least add some mildly educated point to the political debate?

A message from Deputy Secretary of Defense

I know there is a lot of division and misinformation out there in regards to the impending government shutdown- well, hopefully Congress will do what the hell they're supposed to and reach an agreement on their (WAY) overdue budget. We can't count on that because they get paid out of emergency funds (just as the President would) if there is a shutdown. Anyway... back to the message from the Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn III. You can find it in it's entirety here. Basically the Deputy lays out what can be expected for both active duty and civilian personnel if there is a shutdown:

“Operations and activities that are essential to safety, protection of human life, and protection of our national security, are ‘excepted’ from shutting down.  The DoD will continue to conduct activities in support of our national security, including operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Japan; Libya-related support operations; and other operations and activities essential to the security of our nation.  The department must also continue to provide for the safety of human life and protection of property."

Which means the operations themselves will be financed. The personnel are a different story:


“Military personnel are not subject to furlough and will report for duty as normal during the shutdown.  Reserve component personnel should refer to the DoD Contingency Guidance document and to their chain of command for more specific information. 


“If the government shuts down due to the absence of funding, the DoD will have no funds to pay military members or civilian employees for the days during which the government is shut down.  However, both military and civilian personnel will receive pay for the period worked prior to the shutdown.  Military personnel, and civilians occupying excepted status positions and required to work, are entitled to be paid for work performed during the shutdown, and will be paid retroactively once the department receives additional funding.  Congress would have to provide authority in order for the department to retroactively pay non-excepted employees for the furloughed period.  

I hope this is helpful to my milspouses out there. It appears grim to me but if the posturing continues in Washington and a shutdown takes place we can all hope that it'll be short-lived and have a relatively low impact on all those effected; lets not forget this is a Government wide shutdown affecting not only the Department of Defense but all others as well, families who rely on pay from their positions in the Department of Energy, or Transportation (for example) will also be affect.

I just keep reminding myself to count my blessings: I have a warm place to sleep and food in my belly. When the food runs out I have a savings (what's it for after all?) and a credit card. My pops always told me "Failure to plan is planning to Fail." Sometimes it sucks being a grownup because you have to be prepared with contingencies for the worst case scenario. Lucky for me I had great advice from my father. :)

We'll suck it up and drive on like we always do, right? I would remind everyone to get your news from reliable sources, as well as verify and research what you do find.

PS: I got an email from the FRG in Baumholder that some services on post would be affected by the shutdown, check with your FRG to see if services in your area are also going to be canceled/delayed or otherwise affected.

Troops work without PAY...?

First reaction to this story: O.M.G!!

I've seen it all over Facebook for days now.... Yes, it's scary to think about my mans down range not being funded and volunteering (as in, not getting paid) because I'm pretty sure I'm still unemployed (whole other conversation right there) and I'm pretty JP Morgan/Chase is expecting our mortgage on 1 Apr regardless of whether or not Congress pulls their heads out of their collective ass, and stops with the posturing and pissing contests. It's ridiculous really.... We may be kind of behind on the news over here in Germany (not an excuse with the internet, but silly me I find everything in the world kind of depressing so I don't do much to in the way of searching it out anymore... when I see it on a commercial then I'll watch) but what I gather is the Demo's presented a plan to cut like $8 Billion and the Repub's offered up a plan to cut some $61 Billion from the budget. The commentary on AFN was saying both sides are on complete opposites of the spectrum only to get their political bases fired up then will ultimately come together and compromise.

I say why not cut out the bull-shit and just compromise?? Seems like a much better use of our tax dollars, having them all in Washington and actually doing something constructive.... egh, maybe that's wishful thinking but, hell a girl can dream.

Lets also recall (milfolks) that in the 90's when the government shut down, this effected the civilians our military was still paid and life went on. My mother on the other hand (GS worker for over 20 years) may not be paid, hell may even be furloughed but such is life... right?

Lets remember with all the posturing going on for the Presidential race no one wants to be this close to any election with troops downrange and NOT fund the military. It'll never happen (my prediction). I mean... lets hope not, because I'm pretty sure come the 1st, those JP Morgan/Chase folks are going to want their money regardless.

Personally, I'm not going to bogged down in the politics and banter.

I Want it Wednesday...

I want... Bristol Palin OFF Dancing With The Stars! It's ridiculous she's on this long. Can we just talk about how she was considered a "star" in the first place? She got knocked up at 16 or something and is the daughter of one of the most radical Republican/ Tea Party politicians ever. hmmm. Star. Right. I get it now. Is nothing sacred anymore? It's Dancing With the Stars for goodness sake! I think people forget it's a dancing competition not a political arena to pass you vote for underage pregnancies. Hello, Teen Mom I'm lookin' at you! If she wins the show, God help me I'll boycott! 

I want... whoever thought up my BF Jesse McCartney's newest music video wiped off the face of the planet. It's awful. But he's still friggin' adorable! 

I want... to get organized. I miss my own space... you know the idea of multiple rooms (living, bed, bath, ect) of my own. I'm kind of over this living in someone else's guest room. It's wearing on me. 

I want... everyone to know that my father has volun-told me to handle this year's Thanksgiving feast for ummm, a measly 16 people. Me and my 22 pound buddy, Turk, got this! Gobble Gobble!

I really want... to know WTF this is about:

Seriously?! ugh... Here's praying to God this is nothing more than a publicity stunt. I'm so sick of Taylor Swift. I'm happy for her success on some level. But, I'm not a fan of hers. I find her voice annoying. She's made a name for herself regardless of my lil' ol' meaningless opinion so good for her. But really Jake... oiy! 

I want... to know when the craziness will stop, Bristol, Jake and Taylor.... This world is a crazy place. haaaHA

I REALLY Want it Wednesday...

Truly... tell me because I want to know. Help me understand... as an American. I need and I deserve to know!

Case and point. Yes, lets repeal the healthcare bill... Please. Because doing nothing with the old system sounds like a much better idea. At least it's not "change". People are scared of Change. Naturally. Will it work? What will it cost, ect and so forth... At least people can go back to bitching about the health care system not working and it being too expensive-- that is at least a gripe they're used to.

Yes, please, lets "reduce the size of government and continue our fight for a smaller, less costly, more accountable government." (Boehner) OH, The glory days of President Bush. Less costly: hmmm, that's not true to the record. Lets be real when President Clinton left office he left the national budget with a SURPLUS people. After two Bush terms we were left with (how many billions of dollars borrowed from China?) and a huge deficit. So the Republicans being less costly is laughable.

Also, for those who want to "reduce the size of government and continue our fight for a smaller, less costly, more accountable government." as Boehner said have you heard him mention how he'll accomplish it? Talk is cheap.

What I heard during the press conference was "We're going to do exactly what you want." But they failed to mention how. We the people (evidently) want a repeal on the Health Care Bill. But when asked about it he said he'd address it in the coming months and see what happens in January. That's not proof of anything.

Honestly I doubt anything will come from this Republican controlled House/Senate Combo. Only because President Obama has publicly asked Republicans for their ideas and contributions (specifically in regards to Health Care) multiple times; during one State of the Union and he hosted a Summit on Health Care February 7th, where party leaders (including John McCain) spent the unprecedented time with the President name-calling and boasting about their favorite colors... well this is obviously a distortion of the truth... they spent the day discussion nothing. When they could have actually pitched their on brilliant thoughts and ideas on the subject. They did nothing.

Lastly: All Politicians Lie. Change Takes Time. If your excited for the change that Republicans promise... brace yourself it's not likely to come in less than 18 months... Shocking.

On a personal note. As an American, I'm PISSED. My mail-in Ballot is M.I.A! My right, afforded to me by the 19th Amendment was not extended to me. Pissed, I say, PISSED!

I am genuinely curious about the outcome if you can help me to understand and still, as always remain respectful I am so willing to hear you out. Because what I know tells me this makes no sense... none at all.

I'm Confused

First, I'm confused why my co-workers find it acceptable and appropriate to discuss politics at work. When I initially spoke to a co-worker/peer about this about two weeks ago she reminded me that a lot of these people have been working together for over 10 years. Ok, that's fine maybe even valid, but I haven't been working with these people for 10 years. Hell, I just passed my 1 month mark! But they insist on dragging me into these discussions. Well, I have a different stance than most of the people at this company. Which is fine. I have no problem disagreeing on political issues. What I do have a problem with, is it, 1: being in the workplace, period. and 2: when my direct supervisor (HR Director of the company) figures out where I stand (opposite from him) and jokingly makes a comment about how they'll "fix me up" and how they'll "help me."

A: I DONT NEED YOUR HELP!

B: I DONT NEED TO BE FIXED!

C: GO EFF YOURSELF!

Totally inappropriate.

I did respond to my boss by stating,"S----, that is the beauty of a Democracy, we don't have to agree and there is nothing wrong with that." To which he stated, with a smile, I think jokingly AGAIN "We'll fix you up, we have a way of doing that around here."

D: WHATEVER.

(sigh.. it's time to go home, I thought!)

Second, I'm confused about the latest craze: Vajazzling.

You remember the BaDazzler, right?

Well, females have proceeded to "badazzle" their nether regions; their female business.

Yeah.

Strange, right?

Yes.

Evidently Jennifer Love Hewitt has jumped on the bandwagon. If you google this (which I'm sure you will out of pure curiosity) her face and name are everywhere!

I was also coerced talked into jumping on the Twitter bandwagon.

Hit me up if you wanna know why I truly joined Twitter, SamS_live.

Erin was kind enough to bust me out!

Here we go people, hopefully it should be fun.

Also confused about why The Cutest Blog on the Block is getting rid of my current blog background? BOO...

Have you noticed the lil' note on my blog about how it's going away in a few days?

Couldn't have a better time to start working on new digs around here!!

Also, don't forget about my giveaway going on right now!

CLOSES tomorrow Friday, 23 July 2010 at Midnight (MST).

Get your entries in now!!

Gotta Say.... I'm pretty pissed

Prepare yourselves people.

(just a friendly, heads-up)

Anyone else follow Leftface?

Well, obviously now you know I do. The last few days the ladies over there have been pretty fired up. I definitely don't blame them. You see, back on the 4th LAW authored a post about the reprehensible conduct that took place on a US Airways flight leaving Washington's Reagan Int'l Airport (back in March). The readers digest version of what took place goes like this: 6 members of a fallen Marine's family were in Dover welcoming their Marine's body back to the US. They traveled from Dover to DC in order to fly with the remains back to their home. The reprehensible part: The airline asked for volunteers to get off the flight. 3 people volunteered. It wasn't until 30 mins and a tearful plea from a crew member that 3 other individuals were motivated to give up their seat. Let's think on that for a moment. 30 minutes.... seriously? What is wrong with people? If you would like to read the entire story (it's a good read... but, sad obviously) you can find it on the Washington Times.

Anyway, the ladies from LeftFace are up-in-arms today (and the last few days) due to some of the comments they've received since the 4 June story. I'm sure these won't come as any surprise, all of these shitty comments are things we've all heard before; "Suck it up." "There are those who “have greatest disdain” for the “special attention” being paid to anyone in the current military, especially the National Guard." and my personal fav "Quit Whining, you chose to be where you are." Like I said, I think we've all heard these things before (or something similar).

I really think in regards to the Washington Times story about Lance Cpl. Justin Wilson's family, this isn't about entitlement, special attention or receiving a free ride. It's about human decency. It's about this young (24 years old) Marine who gave his life for this country. It's about the 99% of Americans that don't serve and their concern (or lack thereof), respect (or lack thereof) and appreciation (or lack thereof) for our service members, their sacrifices and their families. Not to say that everyone without military affiliation just doesn't get it (or doesn't respect the military)... after all 3 people did jump up and offer their seats on the US Airways flight... and the 3 stragglers that eventually followed suit. I'm right there with you LAW it's reprehensible! It's unacceptable! I can only speak for myself but I would have JUMPED out of my seat and gladly (without hesitation) given it up for this, or any other of the 5517 according to icasualties.org families that have endured the same loss.

I think its time for the 99% to stop bitchin' about our bitchin'. I'm pretty sure EVERYONE chose to be where they are in their lives (in one way or the other), and I'm pretty sure that EVERYONE chooses to bitch about their lives at some point also. Traffic sucks. It's hot. It's cold. It's raining. I hate my job. I don't get paid enough. I want free health care. I can't afford my health care premiums/co-pays. My kids are rotten. My husband/wife/boy-/girlfriend and I are having problems. We have too much debt. Times are tough.

I have to quote Tucker (from LeftFace) "Of course, we volunteered for this, yes, we chose this life. BUT. That is the point. We did what no one wanted to do. We stood up and said, WE will bear this burden for you. We said its okay for you to stay home in your safe and cozy subdivision with your picket fence and American Dream, we’ll do annual deployments, sustain a marriage over the phone, run a household alone, miss holidays, miss births, cram in weddings on R&R, all while living in fear of a dark sedan, a knock on the door and a future as a Gold Star family." Our choice makes us different than you. I wish people would acknowledge the actually choice. The choice I made and more so the choice my husband made. Making the choice is the most honorable and selfless part in all of this. Have the courage and intestinal fortitude to choose this life and the risks is deserving, and warranted of everyone else' respect. Even silently. I (personally) don't need the "thank you for your service" 's. It's nice but really doesn't go that far when I'm sure at some point a stranger said the same thing to LCpl. Wilson's wife widow... but when she needed the support the yellow ribbon magnet on your car indicates you have it took too long for you to stand and offer it. Is too long semantics? Not at all. Not under these conditions.

I feel I have to expand on the fact that we (the spouse and the service member) chose to be where we are; doing what we do. There are some military and milspouses alike, that say they absolutely didn't chose this. There's a possibility for those who signed up prior to 2001 didn't know rucking up, kicking down doors, standing guard in a middle-eastern desert would be their reality. It's entirely possible, even probable they joined for the GI Bill. All the same. It's been 9 years people. Our military began Operation Enduring Freedom 7 Oct 2001, and Operation Iraqi Freedom began 20 Mar 2003. I'd say the standard enlistment lasts 4 years but we all know they own you for 8. Do the math. Anyone still in the military NOW has chosen to be there since these wars began. Which means, the service member, and spouse alike knew what they were getting themselves into. Deployments, training, reintegration, PTSD, et cetera and so forth. None of us are victims of a war we may or may not agree with.

It's simply apart of our reality. Everyday.

It's one of those aspects that speaks to the honor and bravery of the choice we made and continue to make.

You know, that choice that keeps 99% safe and sound at night, comfortable in their beds.

I prefer you count your blessings and quit bitching about my God given right to bitch about my life. I don't impose on your bitching.

Just my take.

Weigh in.

I love that people hate Health Care Reform...

... you know because it was working soooo great before. 

Fact: The health care system was/is broken.

Fact: It needs change-- desperately. 

It seems to me: this "new" health care legislation is a lot like our beloved TriCare system. We all pay (even though a pretty minuscule amount) into it... doesn't mean we go to the doctor all the time and have tons of prescriptions. Take me for example... Money is taken out of the hubs' pay EVERY MONTH like clock work for coverage and I rarely go to the doc; I'm hardly ever sick. But doesn't mean I shouldn't have coverage. Doesn't mean I shouldn't pay for coverage. At some point *knock on wood* I may use my fair share of the money being paid to TriCare. I could get hit by a bus later today and be in the ICU for weeks... lucky for me I have health care coverage. huh? Otherwise paying for all of that care, out-of-pocket would really suck. 

I don't have any issues with Health Care reform... I think our lil' TriCare system works. :) 

~~~*** something I forgot to mention: This Bill was only passed in the House of Reps (220-215).. Senate still needs to pass their version and then the two bills need to be reconciled- then signed into law. Interesting people are TRIPPIN' over this still unfinished process. Take a look here. 
Let it ride people. 

In over news...

Army Wives comes back April 11th! 

Woot Woot. 

:) 

Re: Green Zone

Hey Paula I wanted to respond to your comment that you heard Green Zone was Anti-American, but I know sometimes I ask questions in comments but forget to check back. I didn't think it was in any way, shape or form ANTI-American. No Ma'am. "Absolutely not"-- as my nephew, Nathan says. 

Matt Damon plays CW2 Roy Miller who is running all over Iraq tearing apart WMD sites based upon "reliable intel." Well I think we all know there weren't and aren't any WMD's in Iraq. That isn't news. Well, Mr. Roy Miller realized something had to be wrong with this oh-so reliable intel and brought it up to his Colonel-- who well said this isn't the time to be bring up the issue in Washington. So throughout the movie Miller is fighting against the status quo, pleading for accurate information and getting get it at all costs. At the end of the movie he's clarified some of the intel his team had been conducting missions based on and he makes the point that IT ALWAYS MATTERS WHY WE GO TO WAR. The reasons matter. 

I know there are some people, even some military folks that feel soldiers should just shut-up and blindly follow their orders. At some point I feel there is truth to that... however, I feel its WAY farther down the line. There has to be a way to do what CW2 Miller did; to let the chain of command know that something isn't right in the field. Chasing these invisible WMD's was costing lives... so this fictional Roy Miller did what he needed to do to stop waisting his team's resources and costing lives. 

While I was away...

So after we found out that Amanda and Stephen are expecting a bouncing baby boy we were stuck at their home for the following 2 days, thanks to the 3rd biggest blizzard in DC's modern history! BAMM! Yes, and I was supposed to fly out on Monday. That didn't happen. I received a travel voucher and changed my flight to leave on Tuesday morning. I wound up getting out fine but after a week away, I was sure missing the hell out of my hubby! I know my milspouse readers are thinking "A week? You gotta be kidding me." Well, I've learned that I'm built kind of backwards. I made peace with the fact that Kevin would be gone, before he deployed for a year to Iraq. I just get used to the idea of being without a person for long periods of time. But for some reason being without escential people for short periods of time really just... hurts my heart. All the same, I missed Kevin to pieces while all of this was falling from the sky:

when all was said and done 2.5 feet fell in Centerville, VA ( where I was ). It was craziness.

I happend to snap this picture while passing by the Washington Monument. It's blurry and taken from my BlackBerry but the colors are amazing- I thought!

PS: For those of you who have received the email circulating around the net that the ACLU filed suit to have cross-shaped headstones removed from military cemetaries and end prayer from the military all together, this story is ABSOLUTLEY FALSE!

"The ACLU has never once advocated for or initiated any litigation in favor of, removing cross-shaped headstones from federal cemeteries," spokesman Will Matthews said in an e-mail.

I love how people just flat out MAKE THINGS UP to support their own agenda.

It's sickening.

Have a fabulous Wednesday.

For this weeks edition of I WANT IT WEDNESDAY:

I WANT MY BROTHER IN LAW HOME FROM A-STAN!

I want... the douchebag soldier who keeps discussing movement with his equally douchebaggary wife who calls Staff Duty complaining and questioning the information her husband gave her; to be locked in a room without communication to the oustide world until the flight lands in Colorado Springs!

Sound Off

I want your opinions on a few things. So, please weigh in!

First:

Kev and I were watching an Extreme Home Makeover re-run the other night. I don't remember the family members' names but I do remember that they lived in Arkansas. Anyway, we had Mom, Daughter and Son present for the taping. Their "claim to fame"/reason they were chosen for the show is, Mom started a non-profit (which I also don't remember the name of) which assists/works with the Missing and Exploited Children Organization, after her 3rd child (a daughter) was abducted 10 year earlier. Ty and the gang were in attendance for the 10-year anniversary of when the daughter was taken.

While Kev and I watched the episode we discussed the fact that this girl had been abducted 10 years earlier and that I couldn't possibly be as hopeful as this mom was. Kevin disagreed and said if it were my own child that I'd feel differently. Egh... maybe. Maybe not.

I got to discussing this episode with my mom a few days ago. I told her I didn't believe that I would be able to hold onto hope for that long. I went onto tell Mom how 'they' (the episode) campaigned very hard to get your kids finger-printed and have a current picture (at least once every 6 months) at all times -- as a PREVENTATIVE measure. I'm sorry people but how on earth are having pics and your babies fingerprinted going to prevent some psycho from snatching them off of the street? Prolly won't. Sorry to poo-poo that idea. Well, Mom agreed. She suggested Chipping your kids. We chip our dogs, right? Why not?

Those of you who just cringed and cursed my mom, take a minute and really consider it. If (God-forbid) someone were to abduct your son or daughter wouldn't you want to have this back-up?? For anyone who actually has their dog chipped you know that you can't just voila! activate it and have your mutt picked up lickety-split; whomever finds your precious pup had to take them to a vet and the vet activates your chip....... if all that goes according to plan then you can bring your dog home. I'm thinking I'd prefer something more along the lines of "LoJack". GPS.

{again, stop cringing... hear me out}

"LoJack, not LowJack, is the only vehicle recovery system operated directly by law enforcement. The moment you report a car stolen, a routine entry into the state crime database will automatically trigger the LoJack System hidden well on your automobile. The car tracking device begins to emit an inaudible signal that police can use to track the path of your vehicle. Law enforcement authorities then follow the signal, track down and recover your car and return it to you. " -www.lojack.com

I think that if some sick-o stole my kid, I'd wish I had them chipped (at an early age, it wouldn't be painful, ect ect ect.) so that the Police/FBI (whomever "they" deem) could track them down and bring them home.

You're turn. What do you think? Sound off!

I brought this up to my neighbor, Nikki. She hated the idea. She didn't want "the man" (lol) knowing where she was at all times. I think this is BOGUS! "the man" already knows where you are; and if not, he sure as shit knows how to find your sneaky-ass ASAP! So I'm gonna go ahead and poo-poo that argument. I would rather have "the man" be able to track me because he's bored and has nothing better to do, if it meant I could (if the need should arise) find my stolen child and bring them home. Versus suffering, wallowing, wondering and HOPING they would someday find their way back home.

~***~

Second:

How do we feel about the Afghan discussion in Washington right now?

Yes, I say "we"... we are now a collective and think as one.

;)

Seriously, what are your thoughts? SOUND OFF!

This may be an immature or simple-minded viewpoint but really, troop increase or whatever they decide. I kind of don't really care- honestly. Here's what I do care about: I care about finality. I care about Levi, my brother-in-law currently serving his 4th deployment, in Afghanistan. I care that he got swept up in the first troop surge... which is odd because that was suppose to be in Iraq- right? Lord, who knows anymore? Well, he was in Afghanistan at the time and was still extended to 15 months. It sucked. Increase troops, fine. Whatever. I don't think that they should make the guys already serving over there have to stay even longer in order to reach their "additional surge numbers". Whatever they turn out to be. I say: Send the guy who's only deployed once and drove a desk since 03. Send the douche-bags I see walking around post without a combat patch. Versus, more or less penalizing the soldiers who know what they signed up for and who suck-it-up and deploy time-after-time-after-time.

Hmm. I'm thinking that's goin to be unpopular. Oh well.

Coming back to Finality. If an increase is determined to be necessary in Afghanistan then it better it be successful. Make it count. Please don't make it a habit either. The Iraqi surge was successful and the majority of the troops left behind are non-combat related. So "they" say. All the same, if a surge is necessary I hope it would speed up the final exit from Afghanistan.

Ok, I'm tired and have written enough for one day. Please weigh in. Please don't go on and on about how repubs or demo's suck at life. It's not relevant. And it sort of bores me.

Bye-Bye Pity Party...

Yesterday was a pretty miserable day! I woke up just feeling like absolute crappola about not having a job, not being able to take a vacation with Kevin returns, and most importantly being extra nervous about paying our bills after all the extra cash stops, when Kevin gets home. Well unfortunately my hubs was not able to say the right thing (because truly and honestly there was no fixing my mood and whatever he said would probably have made it worse) which only added to my pity party. Then my foul mood spilled onto Kevin and basically ruined his day. Already being in a piss-poor mood I wasn't really wanting to deal with Kevin throwing himself a pity party at the same time as mine. There is only room for one at a time people!!! Maybe he didn't get that memo. tee hee Well, I'm sure he now knows. Basically yesterday was just crap. I still applied for countless jobs though. Than this morning I was woken up by a call from "something Maintenance" offering me an interview for tomorrow am! =) Woo hoo. Unfortunately I have been applying for so many jobs with so many different companies I have absolutely no idea what this interview is for; what position I mean. Time will tell. Positive thoughts please... and fingers crossed!!!

Am I the only one who's crapping my pants about the situation in North Korea?? This guy is a complete nut-job but he scares the ever-livin' out of me. Anyone else? If you have been under a rock or simply avoid the news... here is a quick recap of the nonsense taking place.

Also... I found this hilarious! Please someone tell me when Dick Cheney is going to go away??? Really you had your shot- the Bush administration had the lowest approval rating in the history of approval ratings when they left office. Take a hint: Shut your mouth. You're either annoying or digging an even bigger/deeper hole for last administration. Quick question: Does anyone out there know (without a doubt) why we've invaded two countries in the middle east? At this point I'm beyond confused.. WMD- no. Saddam is a very mean man and gassed the Kurds- he was executed just a lil' while ago...(still confused). 9-11 (thanks to Dick Cheney's delayed confession) and the 9-11 Commission we now know that was wrong? Yes, I am blogging about this in my always sarcastic tone because hell, how long does this have to continue? I am however, onboard with the whole we broke it so we can't just jump out of the country(s) in haste. Have to build up some sort of infrastructure. I often find Repub's response to this question (after ump-teen years) is that it no longer matters why we went but we're committed now. I disagree. I'd like to know... So if anyone can shine some light on this subject I'd greatly appreciate your knowledge.

On the other hand: just because I don't get the purpose for the wars (at this point, nor have I ever really understood it) this does not mean I do not support my hubs and his colleagues! From a military standpoint the political reasons (excuses) for prompting war/invasions are more or less irrelevant. You do what you're told. You go where you're told, when you're told. Even more heroic, in my eyes.

Thanks for reading. =) Hope we learned something new today. I'm hoping to.

US vs THEM *response...

Dear Casey,
I suppose I should start by saying I didn't address you personally in an open and honest discussion, because I didn't realize you were so vein (as the song goes) to think this "song" was about you. Well, I thought it would be a good song reference there... Honestly, (if that's what we're going for) your blog played a part in yesterday's post but not in its entirety. If you notice I didn't wait for your response to my question in regard to your husband's deployments, or lack thereof. Also, you aren't the only conservative AF wife blogging about their woes, or life overseas.

Well, thank you for proving the point I was trying to make. This is simple logic, (and sense you've opened yourself up for discussion) your husband hasn't served in the same capacity as mine. Now, this doesn't mean Airmen (your husband, my father, Nikki even) aren't entitled to respect. I'm pretty sure I never said not to respect, or flat out disrespect them, but I digress. I respect my father, but not because he service in the military/AF makes him a "warrior" or a "hero", but because he is a good and hard working man with morals and personal integrity- just as I'm sure your husband is. Military service does not automatically entitle one to the title of "hero." There are soldiers and Marines that I feel aren't heroic... soldiers and Marines whom dodge their duty to deploy with twisted ankles and other lame excuses. These same soldiers and Marines are not heroes. Your husband's service is to be respected, but so is mine. The differences in their military careers need to be appreciated as well.

This is where my issue comes into play. You have not yet been where I've been; nor your husband been to where mine has. Depending on your husband’s job he will likely not see a war front during the course of his career- this is not disrespect, it is fact, or truth. The fact that mine has dealt with the summer heat in the desert of Iraq three times during the course of his short time [so far] in the Army, and that I have laid in an empty bed night after night... and held the hand of another Army Wife in the middle of the night during the first months of the war in Iraq, while she sobbed through her fears that she would never really get to begin her life with her new husband.... while she hoped for his safe return but fought of thoughts of his horizontal return in a flag draped coffin. These are the realities...

Personally, I would prefer wives who have not suffered through the agony of a deployment (and who very well may not have to) should appreciate the fact that someone like myself has. Be thankful that you have your husband next to you every night and home for dinner on most occasions. I would prefer you and your husband count your blessings, versus feeling entitled to the same glory, respect and recognition as those have been through the experiences that have EARNED the parades, and appreciation.

As for the TDY vs DEPLOYMENT issue... The AF has labeled visits from weeks up to 3 months (even more) to the places I listed as "deployments". I am glad to hear that even though the AF may consider these deployments you do not. But, there are other AF spouses and Airmen alike who have embarked on these vacations (ha ha.. comic relief...! no? anyway) and feel that because the AF has labeled it a deployment that they too have risked their lives and are deserving of something close to the accolades my husband has received.

All of the above is why I have hoped (and will continue to) that the ladies like yourself (and your husband’s) will appreciate the differences in service. I suppose my attempt to point out these differences could be viewed as confrontational, petty, or argumentative. You and some others may think it isn't worthy of comparison. But I do...

I hope that you and your husband continue to enjoy your time in Europe. You have taken some beautiful pictures by the way! And if your husband should have to deploy (even beyond Saudi, or Qatar; these places too should almost not be considered deployments.. malls, civies, pools... almost reminiscent of Orlando, hmm.), may God be with him, but not till then will either of you truly understand what I’m trying so desperately to convey.

Sincerely,
Samantha

US vs THEM

I think this is going to be one of my first really pissed off blogs. I spent some time this afternoon/evening reading some new blogs, and catching up on some others that I actually enjoy. Well I stumbled across one that I found rather immature, and disheartening (especially considering the 'military' that her husband 'serves' in). One characteristic that I have found overly annoying and infuriating is the insulting tone the "Conservative Right" Wingers use to express themselves. There is always this (sometimes) underlying, argument that they are the Godly party which they feel entitles them to look down their noses with judgment upon all who dare to disagree. All of this because some how the idea that their beliefs or 'opinions' are based on the bible puts them in the "right" all the time. God wouldn't steer them wrong... or allow them to believe or embrace any ideal that wasn't correct... it's all so obnoxious and childish.

I choose truth over burying my head in the sand. I choose facts over fiction; furthermore I choose documented history over interpretive manipulation (of said fact). I choose to open my mind up to various news outlets, verses the self-admitted practice of not reading the news papers of our former President George W. Bush. At the end of the day, I stand with the majority... Not the minority people! It's funny that even some the conservatives or the right wingers that I've participated in discussions with deny that they are in the minority. I suppose I should be more specific. Last fall prior to the election I was having a conversation with a Republican co-worker and he flat out refused to accept the realities of former President Bush’s acceptance amongst Americans; The truth (which I openly embrace) is that when Buss left office he held the LOWEST [in 70 years] approval rating amongst Americans, at 22%. Only 5% of American's believed that he was a "Good President." My then co-worker repeatedly stated that "most American's like Bush." I suppose he believed that if he said it over and over again that it would somehow, someway magically make it true. While this can't be true (it can’t be, right..? Seriously?) for all conservative republicans this is the type of attitude that supports my "Head in the sand" theory.
*My co-worker’s idea that everyone loved Bush is not the only example I have that supports my theory (nor was this the only time I’d heard this argument), if anyone would like to share them with the class please throw your hand to the sky and let me know! J
Something else that I find infuriating is how those who don't deploy feel they serve or sacrifice as much as those who have deployed to fight in these wars; same for the spouses. While the wife of an Airman (for example) does serve a purpose and support her husband while he volunteers for deployments to Honduras, Peru, Brazil, Orlando, or Germany, I'm positive that this sacrifice doesn't come close to that of the wife on the verge of her 4th 12 month deployment, plus 1 15 month deployment all in just 7 years of marriage.
I think this is the perfect opportunity to let all my readers know I was raised in an Air Force family. My father served his country for 21 years in the Air Force, reached the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, pay grade E8. During his 21 years in the AF he had only 6 different duty stations; including a "hardship tour" to Iceland for a year. While the AF did provide a very nice life for my family my father does not feel he served his country nearly as much as either one of his son-in-laws has in their 6.5 years in the Army (5 deployments to Iraq, and 1 to Afghanistan are shared between my Husband and my brother-in-law). Also, I have had many disagreements with my neighbor Nikki who is active duty AF, and currently serving her third 6-month deployment to Iraq, about the differences between the Army and the AF. After all the AF basic training only recently started issuing their recruits "real" weapons. By real, I mean that literally. In the past AF basic training only consisted of weapons 'familiarization' AF recruits were not assigned a real M16 (or M4 now, for those of you who are familiar), actually they were given a rubber weapon to carry around... Please keep your chuckles to a minimum. Furthermore, the weapons familiarization course did not include wind calls, adjusting of sights, or proper firing techniques.
My point..? My point is that the blogs I read that pissed me off were authored by the same Conservative Republican right winged Air Force Wife, who has managed to convince herself (and maybe others) that her husband is as much a warrior as mine. The depth of the self dilution by this group if "military wives" is evidently never ending. I guess that is the point of self dilution... hmmm?
Coming back to my homie, Nikki. She volunteered for her third deployment, this time in an administrative capacity; her first two deployments were while she was still a cop A.K.A. Security Forces. Nikki has taught me that there are exceptions to every rule. There are Airmen that are highly trained and do actually "deploy" and serve in these wars... they are not the majority however, but they do exist. Unfortunately, the ones who are and were trained with “real” weapons are outnumbered by those who were all too comfortable with their rubber gun, claiming that TDY’s (or attending a class/conference) in Orlando is somehow a “deployment”. All that I have ever hoped for from those who haven't participated as warriors is that they don't claim to be warriors nor expect to be treated as one. It's not fair or "right" to infringe on the glory that others have earned. We all have a job and purpose we just each need to know our place.
At this point I’m going to venture to guess that I’ve pissed someone else off with this post and my opinions. Well, that’s fine. I am what I am, and when I’m moved to speak my mind that’s what I’m going to do. You don’t have to agree with everything that I say, but refusing to read it or denying any validity places you in the minority with your head squarely in the sand!