The 2009 MilBlog Conference...

In all things that are purely social we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.
~~~~~Booker T. Washington


My mind is going numb from trying to catch up on all my backlogged reading. So much so that I had to have help getting the pictures downloaded from the storage card to my computer. I had thought that I would try to do the pictures in chronological order, but... Sorry, too much dang work.


Therefore, in no particular order are some shots that I took while attending the 2009 Mil-Blog Conference in Arlington, Virginia. May I say that all the milbloggers I met are much more awesome in person. Not saying that they aren't awesome on their blogs. It's just that meeting everyone is like extending my family across this wonderful country. Whew! Talk about a family reunion. Good times for sure.

While I can put names to quite a few faces, there are several whose names I just didn't catch. If you see someone you recognize and I didn't give their name, feel free to let me know who they are.


David Stanford, editor of Doonesbury "The Sandbox" and ??? Jill?


Mary Ann from Soldiers' Angels~Germany (facing the camera) talking to ??? Boston Maggie and Mrs. G. (I think) facing away from the camera.


Andi (who did the most arduous task of organizing the whole Mil-blog shebang) talking to Chuck Z. Mrs. Borda (JP's wife in the background)


Susan Katz Keating, myself, Eve, and a friend of Eve's whose name I can't recall. I know...terrible person that I am.


CJ Grisham (Soldiers Perspective) asking a question of one of the panel members.


Lisa (in DC), Kathi (Mail Call), and myself having a gabfest after dinner at PF Changs. We had the bestest time eating and talking. Kathi's daughter; April, took the picture.


Tankerbabe (Leta) and me. Meeting the first time, you can't just shake hands, you got to give and get hugs. I love hugs...


Susan (Susan Katz Keating on National Security) and CJ (Soldiers Perspective) schmoozing.


Troy (Bouhammer) and me doing our own schmoozing. His wife, Christine, is super sweet as well.


Carren (Chuck Z's wife) and Greta Perry (Hooah Wife/Kiss my Gumbo). Those two together made me laugh. 2 very special ladies that I had the privledge to meet that first night.


Susan (with back to camera) Sherry and Alex Horton (Army of Dude). Sherry and I talked so much that I missed one complete panel. But it was well worth it. Good thing CJ and Troy video taped the panels.


Elizabeth Newberry (National Museum of Americans at War) Bob Miller (Concrete Bob), and JP(Milblogging). Susan with back to camera. Hmmm, is she trying to tell me something?


These next few pictures I took using my phone. Quality isn't as good, but the battery on my digital camera was kaput!

Greyhawk (Mudville Gazette) moderating the last panel of the conference.


CJ auctioning off a ball cap with a whole hell of a lot of major sports figures signatures with the proceeds going to benefit Soldiers' Angels. I think the last bid was $350. Good job CJ!


Rick Lowe, Matt Bernard and Ricky John. Matt was presented a certificate and 5K check. Great job Matt (American Soldier).


The last panel of the conference....Representatives of Long War Journal, Small Wars Journal and Abu Muqawama. These guys are the heavy thinkers of the military blogging world. You really should check out what they are posting to keep up with all the heavy stuff. Me, eh... I'll stick to those little drops.




And so it goes......

The View From The 8th Floor...

Looking out my window from the 8th floor. It's a beautiful day here in Arlington. Since I got very few hours of sleep earlier this morning, I think I'm going to test out one of the beds for a nap. The plans for tonight are things I don't want to miss. I'll update after I wake and hopefully find everyone.

My Next Vacation Destination...

A vacation is like love - anticipated with pleasure, experienced with discomfort, and remembered with nostalgia.
~~~~~Author Unknown

(Article and picture from Quqnoos.com)

In a celebration to mark International Earth Day, Afghan Environmental Agency established the first-ever National Park in the country

The unique sight of Band-e Amir Lake of relatively safe Bamyan province in central Afghanistan is known as the National Park for Afghanistan.

Afghanistan’s National Environmental Protection Agency NEPA said the new park would have an economical stimulus on the country, as it improves tourism industry.

"The first Afghan National Park will be inaugurated in the next one month or two," NEPA Director, Mostafa Zahir said.

Band-e Amir Lake is a place where thousands of tourists, mostly Afghans, pay visits each year, especially in spring and summer seasons.

Local entrepreneurs have built up number of restaurants, shops and hotels, but NEPA is planning to construct a campground to officially turn it to an exciting entertainment location.

Building a proper site is expected to boost tourism industry in the country, which been suffering due to political instability over the past twenty years.

According to Mr. Zahir, the park will also provide job opportunities for locals in the villages around the lake.

Before the Taliban rule, Band-e Amir Lake was receiving enormous amount of international tourists, but the hardliners regime had an effect on Afghan tourism and put it in isolation.

Band-e-Amir is a series of six lakes in central Bamyan Province, and the National Park covers 560,000 hectares of land.

The lakes present a stunning visual landscape, with their clear, azure-blue color set against red-rock cliffs and dry grasslands.

The combination of desert, water, and rock make for landscapes that rival those of national parks anywhere in the world.

~~~~~

Doesn't that picture above give you a feeling of tranquility? The blue water of the lake draws me in like a moth to the flame. Even though I don't swim, peace fills my soul while I'm close to any body of water, be it river, lake or ocean... Weird, I know. I can and do blame the eldest brother for my fear of swimming. Oh, I can paddle about, and things like that, but let my feet not be able to touch the ground under the water, and I panic. 'Tis never a good thing.

I have a feeling that I would have to save my nickles and dimes for several years before I could afford travel expenses to Band-e-Amir though. Hmmm, maybe I should start now. Perhaps I would be able to overcome my fear to truly enjoy all that Afghanistan's first National Park has to offer.


While I was searching for more information on the above area, I came across several photo essays from a photo journalist; Luka Baljkas, with some breathtaking views of the Band-e-Amir area, as well as Nuristan and the Hindu Kush. Please take a moment to see the beauty that can be found in 'The Land that Time Forgot'.




And so it goes......

Ahh, Those Frenchies In Tagab...

What we call reality is an agreement that people have arrived at to make life more livable.
~~~~~Louise Nevelson

A contingent of the French troops have attacked a restive Afghan district, Tagab, some 80km north-east of the capital Kabul

The troops have claimed the district is entirely evacuated from militant elements and forces have gained the control of the district.

This has been called an effort to setback the growing insurgency in Kapisa province.

Tagab of Kapisa province has been a close stronghold of the Taliban militants to the capital of the country, where a large scale of terror attacks were carried out and planned in the central Afghanistan.

Head of the French unit deployed to Tagab district, Keip Bertrend, said security in Kapisa is a challenge confronting the Afghan government and the international troops.

Despite removing militants from the district, the French military head urged for reinforcement to maintain the security in the volatile area, close to Kabul.

"Our presence is effective in improving the security in Tagab," said Bertrend.

The French military officer said personal conflicts are also a part of the issue which has deteriorated the security in Kapisa province.

Insurgents have also a widespread presence in the area, Bertrend said, adding, they have witnessed improvements in the central region of the country.

France has almost 3,000 soldiers on the ground in Afghanistan that mostly based in central provinces of Afghanistan.

Twenty Seven French soldiers have been killed in different incidents, mostly carried out by the Taliban in the country so far.

The fatalist raid on the French forces was on Surubi district to Kabul, bordering Tagab of Kapisa province that 10 French servicemen were killed in the Taliban-led insurgency.

Surubi district, according to some, is the Helmand of Kabul where a large presence of militants is known but Afghan and international security officials claim the district is out of Tabliban influence.

~~~~~

During my perusal of news this morning... Ok, it was early afternoon. We were up very very late this morning. I read this news article from quqnoos.com and just knew I had to bring it to your all's attention. Why, you might ask? Because Tagab was supposed to have been relatively quiet district in Kapisa province since 'Our Guys' had been there.

Now the French Forces are the ones who are patrolling that district and province. Over the last two years, I've read the news from this district with personal interest. It occurs to me that only while there is a contingent of foreign warriors with a permanent base in Kapisa province or any other province, is any real peace sustained.

So that begs the question, Why do we and the NATO forces ever leave a district or province once the Taliban influence is removed or driven out? I reckon to my way of thinking, if and when a province or district is cleared of the bad indians, the guys who removed them should stay put for a good long while to make sure that they stay gone. I also know that's not the way things are done. Still...I wonder why.


*This just in from Bakhtar News.*

Arms and Ammunition Seized in Kapisa

Date : Apr 22, 2009
Category : General
Sources : BNA

Some quantity of arms and ammunition were seized in the center of Kapisa province. The Ministry of Interior Affairs said that armed militants hidden the arms and ammunition for destructive activities in that province.The arms and ammunition included 4 artillery shells with quantity of heavy and light arms and were seized by police from Shokhi area Mahmoodraqi center of Kapisa province. No one has been captured on charges of the case.




And so it goes......

Giving Thanks To The ANP...

Remember upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.
~~~~~Alexander the Great

A Mazen Ahmadi village elder located outside Shouz in the Shindand District of the Herat Province thanks an Afghan National Police (ANP) officer for bringing food, coal, shoes and toys to the village of 300 on 18 April 2009. The ANP distributed the humanitarian aid assistance to the village elders to be handed out to individual families later. Additional security for the delivery of assistance was provided by Afghan Regional Security Integration Command-West (ARSIC-W) and ISAF forces.

Credit: ISAF

I found the above picture on this site. It was entitled "Picture of the Week".

Even though I've heard rumors of what 'boots on ground' guys laughingly call ISAF, I've got to admit that I try to check their site on a regular basis. They are another official website that is trying to put out the word of what is happening in country. Some great stories of the actions of 'Our Guys' and those NATO countries.

Below is a smattering of those stories. Yes, I realize that some of them may be a few days old. But I think it's important for them to be shared. Who knows? There might be something that y'all hadn't been read yet, or seen. So, do the clicky click thing, and catch up on the latest action from within Afghanistan.

ISAF troops strike insurgent positions in Now Zad, Helmand province.

Afghanistan Minister of Defence and Commander International Security and Assistance Force conduct joint press conference.

ANA, ISAF provide support to earthquake victims.





And so it goes......

Flight Nurse...

You cannot help but learn more as you take the world into your hands. Take it up reverently, for it is an old piece of clay, with millions of thumbprints on it.
~~~~~John Updike







Capt.Susan McCormick gives medicine to Airman 1st Class Brent Noah March 26 during an aeromedical evacuation flight to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Airman Noah, assigned to the 376th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan, dislocated his hip and was being flown to Bagram Airfield for treatment. Captain McCormick is a flight nurse with the 455th Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Flight at Bagram. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Erik Cardenas)


The rest of Capt. McCormick's story is here.




And so it goes......

Friday Funnies...

Every day may not be good, but there's something good in every day.
~~~~~Author Unknown



Too much going on in my little world that contributes to the discombobulated feeling I've had for the last few days. The 'blahs' have hit me with what feels like a sucker punch to the solar plexus. I'm hoping that a few laughs will revive the gray matter, and a little lightening of the weight pressing down. I did say "hoping", didn't I?



Monastery of Silence

Sister Mary Katherine entered the Monastery of Silence.

The Priest said, "Sister, this is a silent monastery. You are welcome here as long as you like, but you may not speak until directed to do so."

Sister Mary Katherine lived in the monastery for 2 years before the Priest said to her, "Sister Mary Katherine, you have been here for 2 years. You may speak two words."

Sister Mary Katherine said, "Hard bed."

"I'm sorry to hear that," the Priest said, "We will get you a better bed."

After another 2 years, Sister Mary Katherine was summoned by the Priest. "You may say another two words, Sister Mary Katherine."

"Cold food," said Sister Mary Katherine, and the Priest assured her that the food would be better in the future.

On her 10th anniversary at the monastery, the Priest again called Sister Mary Katherine in to his office. "You may say two words today."

"I quit," said Sister Mary Katherine.

"It's probably best," said the Priest, "You've done nothing but bitch since you got here."
~~~~~

Eve's side of the Story

After three weeks in the Garden of Eden, God came to visit Eve. "So, how is everything going?" inquired God.

"It is all so beautiful, God" she replied. "The sunrises and the sunsets are breathtaking, the smells, the sights, everything is wonderful, but I have just one problem..." "It's these breasts you have given me. The middle one pushes the other two out and I am constantly knocking them with my arms, catching them on branches and snagging them on bushes. They're a real pain."

And Eve went on to tell God that since many other parts of her body came in pairs, such as her limbs, eyes, ears, etc. She felt that having only two breasts might leave her body more 'symmetrically balance'.

"That's a fair point," replied God, "But it was my first shot at this, you know. I gave the animals six breast, so I figured that you needed only half of those, but I see that you are right. I will fix it up right away."

And God reached down, removed the middle breast and tossed it into the bushes.

Three weeks passed and God once again visited Eve in the Garden the Eden.

"Well, Eve, how is my favorite creation?"

"Just fantastic," she replied, "But for one oversight. You see, all the animals are paired off. The ewe has a ram and the cow has her bull. All the animals have a mate except me. I feel so alone..."

God thought for a moment and said, "You know, Eve, you are right. How could I have overlooked this? You do need a mate and I will immediately create a man from a part of you. Let's see... where did I put that useless tit?"

Now, doesn't THAT make more sense than that story about the rib?
~~~~~

Life....According to Maxine

1. Jim Baker and Jimmy Swaggert have written an impressive new book. It's called...
'Ministers Do More Than Lay People'

2. Transvestite: A guy who likes to eat, drink and be Mary.

3. The difference between the Pope and your boss, the Pope only expects you to kiss his ring.

4. My mind works like lightning, one brilliant flash and it's gone.

5. The only time the world beats a path to your door is if you're in the bathroom.

6. I hate sex in the movies. Tried it once. The seat folded up, the drink spilled and that ice, well, it really chilled the mood.

7. It used to be only death and taxes. Now, of course, there's shipping and handling, too.

8. A husband is someone who, after taking the trash out, gives the impression that he just cleaned the whole house.

9. My next house will have no kitchen- just vending machines and a large trash can.

10. A blonde said, "I was worried that my mechanic might try to rip me off. I was relieved when he told me all I needed was turn signal fluid."

11. Definition of a teenager? God's punishment... for enjoying sex.

12. As you slide down the banister of life, May the splinters never point the wrong way.




And so it goes......

Should I Take It....

Sometimes I give myself admirable advice, but I am incapable of taking it.
~~~~~Mary Wortley Montagu


This little piece of advice arrived this morning...

Give it thought, xxxxxx. Consider every angle. And then speak your mind.

You've not been drawn into anyone's life just to listen.

Loud and proud, You're not here to be quiet, xxxxxx. Actually, you're one of my spokes-peeps.

Some days, I read the inspirational and uplifting words sent and wonder how I can take action on the suggestions. Other days, I read, then archive them for later perusal. For some unknown reason, this one resonated deep within my soul.

Seriously though, I've been trying to listen more to what everyone is saying. Yet... I still believe it's not the words that speak the loudest, but the actions that will give me the true picture of other people's character.




And so it goes......

Kapisa Province Receives Aid From US, French and Afghan Forces...

It is amazing how much you can accomplish when it doesn't matter who gets the credit.
~~~~~Author Unknown

U.S., French, Afghan Forces Team Up to Aid Afghan Villages
Tue, 14 Apr 2009 12:27:00 -0500

U.S., French, Afghan Forces Team Up to Aid Afghan Villages By Army 1st Lt. Lory Stevens Special to American Forces Press Service KAPISA PROVINCE, Afghanistan, April 14, 2009 - U.S. forces participated with French and Afghan forces recently in three days of humanitarian missions to bring medical treatment and necessary supplies to residents of isolated villages here. Task Force Warrior brigade surgeon Army Capt. (Dr.) William Barker injects anesthetics before stitching the ear of a patient during a two-day medical outreach at the Alasay District Center in Afghanistan's Kapisa province, April 5, 2009. U.S. Air Force photo by Chief Master Sgt. John Zincone (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. The Alasay District Clinic in Kapisa treated more than 670 patients April 5-6 with the assistance of multinational doctors, surgeons and medical teams. The two-day medical outreach brought together Task Force Warrior, along with the Kapisa and Parwan provincial reconstruction teams, and Afghan and French soldiers to provide medical care to the isolated population. More than 120 Afghan women were seen at a separate facility in the village by female health care workers from the French team. Illnesses ranged from colds and pneumonia to lacerations, hypertension and malnourishment. "Afghans presented [us] with various medical problems, such as gastritis, asthma, eczema and other types of skin disorders, musculoskeletal pain, and dental problems," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Donray David, who serves with the Task Force Warrior surgeon group. One local elder, who is about 70 years old, arrived with a cancerous tumor the size of a grapefruit. Army Capt. (Dr.) William Barker, command surgeon with the task force, arranged for the man to be seen at the Egyptian hospital at Bagram Airfield, and coalition forces paid for his cab fare to get there, David said. Air Force 1st Lt. Jon Farley, a PRT medical officer, said he was so impressed with the performance of Afghan doctor Mohammed Samir that he recommended Samir be admitted to a physician mentorship training program to expand his capabilities and enhance duty performance within the Afghan army. "He was quite competent and capable, and expressed interest in attending training opportunities at Craig Joint Theater Hospital on [Bagram Airfield]," Farley said. On April 4, Task Force Warrior and French forces supported the Afghan National Army during a mission to supply food, blankets and school supplies to Alasay district's Sultan Khiel village. School supplies were distributed to 250 boys and food and blankets to the adults. "Like most occasions when we show up, the people and children immediately started coming out of the woodwork to our location," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Todd Davis, Kapisa and Parwan PRT engineer. Flour, beans, rice, and blankets were given to families who lined up during the event. NATO International Security Assistance Force backpacks, chalk boards and other school supplies were distributed to the children. "Our recent joint operations in support of the ANA to clear and hold the Alasay District Center are having positive results for the people of Alasay," said Army Col. Stephen Jeselink, Task Force Warrior deputy commander, referring to improvements in security and connecting the people of Alasay to their government and resources. (Army 1st Lt. Lory Stevens serves with the Task Force Warrior public affairs office.)

Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan NATO International Security Assistance Force

A boy waits to be seen at the Alasay District Center during a two-day village medical outreach by local providers and medical personnel from Task Force Warrior in Afghanistan's Kapisa province, April 5, 2009. U.S. Air Force photo by Chief Master Sgt. John Zincone Download screen-resolution Download high-resolution Air Force Senior Airman Cynthia Lorenzi of the Kapisa and Parwan provincial reconstruction team medical group prepares medications to be dispersed during a two-day medical outreach in Afghanistan's Kapisa province, April 5, 2009. U.S. Air Force photo by Chief Master Sgt. John Zincone Download screen-resolution Download high-resolution An Afghan man receives donations of food, blankets and school supplies from the Afghan National Army in Alasay district's Sultan Khiel village in Afghanistan's Kapisa province, April 4, 2009. U.S. Army photo Download screen-resolution Download high-resolution

Taking The Good With The Bad...

Blessed is the person who is too busy to worry in the daytime and too sleepy to worry at night.
~~~~~Author Unknown



I've been reading the morning news. Most of it not good. 'Tis sad, isn't it? Most of the news being reported is the failure of this or the decline of that. But I do try to keep up with the things that are happening around the world.

Here's a bit of what I've been reading. Since most of them are from AP news sources, click on the link to continue reading the rest of the story...


A young couple in Afghanistan tried to elope. Death; the price of being in love.

From the valley where the deadly firefight took the lives of 9 of 'Our Guys' and wounded 27, Company C of the 1st Battalion of the 26th Infantry are trying to "Bridge Two Stages of War."

Pakistan makes a deal to create peace in Swat. Deal gives Taliban immunity.

Those in Afghanistan concerned Pakistan's Swat law will harm their own security.



Have they retaliated? Pirates seize 4 more ships.

Castro and his reaction to Pres. O's lifting of some of the sanctions. He "Insists US go further."

North Korea vows to restart nuclear plant after UN condemns rocket launch.



Pres. O (I have such a hard time even thinking his complete name) gives a speech at Georgetown University outlining his state of the economy.

Are you part of the nation wide T(axed)E(nough)A(lready) Party being planned for tomorrow? Read this to see why EVERYONE should join.

Do you have a few spare moments to help a Soldiers' Angel surprise one of her adopted soldiers? Please go here to read and most importantly VOTE!!

Just saw that David Tate of Battlefield Tourist has put up his fourth and final photoshow of his trip to Afghanistan in February.


That's just a small part of what I'm trying to keep up with. Unfortunately time is slipping away from me. 'Tis time for me to walk away from this computer and return to the reality of my life.




And so it goes......

Easter Morn...

Let the resurrection joy lift us from loneliness and weakness and despair to strength and beauty and happiness.
~~~~~Floyd W. Tomkins




The Easter Story Jesus came to compensate
For all the wrongs we do.
He came to earth to die for us,
So we’d be born anew. "This bitter cup, let it pass from me,"
He cried, in a plaintive voice;
"Yet not My will, but Thine be done;"
He said, in His faithful choice. The Judas kiss would seal his fate;
He faced a hostile crowd;
The governor, Pilate, saw through it all;
Jesus’ guilt he disavowed. "I wash my hands of all of this,"
Said Pilate, "Let Him be."
But the crowd yelled "Crucify him now,
And set Barabbas free!" Pilate yielded to their wish;
And Jesus was led away.
The soldiers beat him, and mocked Him, too,
Yet He continued to obey. A crown of thorns lay on His head,
As His sentence was carried out;
His hands and feet were pierced with nails,
But He did not scream or shout. "Father, forgive them for this crime;
They know not what they do."
He said this despite His torment, because,
He was thinking of me and you. "It is finished," he sighed in His anguish and pain,
As His body gave up to death.
The curtain tore, and darkness fell,
After He took His last breath. The best of the story is the very last part;
It’s why on Easter we’re filled with pleasure:
Death could not our Savior hold;
His power is beyond all measure. He rose from the grave, and was seen all around;
Ever since, He’s inspired devotion,
And we’ll be with Him for eternity,
When we get our heavenly promotion. That’s why Easter is a major event:
He suffered and died in our place.
He rose and forgave us and loves us still,
Our Savior of matchless grace. By Joanna Fuchs

Follow Me...

Proverbs often contradict one another, as any reader soon discovers. The sagacity that advises us to look before we leap promptly warns us that if we hesitate we are lost; that absence makes the heart grow fonder, but out of sight, out of mind.
~~~~~Leo Rosten


There's a new toy in town... Twitter.

Leaping Lizards! I can't believe that I've spent the majority of my free time today in the reading of the "Follow me" updates on Twitter. Here I am, a tech-newbie, addicted to it. First the mil-blogs, then Facebook, and now Twitter. Even more weird, my daughter SG made her status update on fb, "my mom is on twitter. i am not. she is hipper than myself. how sad." No, it's not sad, strange maybe, but not sad. While I find it complex, it's also fascinating.


After the last few weeks fighting to get or keep the internet connection, it was wonderful to be able to click on all my favorites and have them pop up in a flash. Even though I had other things I could have or should have been attending to today, I didn't.

This weekend was "me" time. No piglets would be visiting, nor any plans made to take me away. Oh sure, I did my normal house cleaning, and made the important phone calls to those who are interested in my well being. Other than the few hours needed for that, I've been reading and surfing the net. Let me tell ya, it has been thought provoking, yet relaxing at the same time. I received a dm (direct msg) from a blog friend who uses Twitter, too. He made the comment that "twitter was cutting into his blog time." Yup, how well I know...


There is one thing I like about Twitter, if you have a large following, which I don't, you are able to check out so many more links almost immediately. Much easier than visiting all the news sites and checking and rechecking the blog list for updates. Troy and JP(Bouhammer and Milblogging) have apparently mastered the art of 'follow me' well. They both have gathered thousands of followers. How they get any sleep is beyond me.

I do know that the Mil-Blog Conference later this month will be tweeted by several. Since I don't own a laptop to take with me, I'll be sending my tweets from my phone. Reckon I should learn how to post pictures as well. That ought to be fun. Instant record of the shenanigans as they happen.
I wouldn't call that blackmail, would you?


And in other areas of the world, Scott Kesterson is sending tweets from Afghanistan. He also has several new blogs where he posts the longer story from his tweets. There is at least one other blogger in country who uses twitter, Deployed Teacher. He doesn't tweet nearly as often as Scott does. But isn't it amazing how much faster we can know what is going on there, with each new update from these guys?

I know... I know... Weird. Twitter is like Lay's Potato chips. You can't read just one. You go back again and again and again.




And so it goes......

Special Guest In Cincinnati...

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.
~~~~~George Washington Carver

Afghan Girl Gets Help from Soldiers, Americans

By Army Pfc. Kimberly D. Cole
Special to American Forces Press Service


BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, April 9, 2009 - A 2-year-old girl from Afghanistan's Gardez province and her family flew to Cincinnati earlier this month to have reconstructive surgery on the child's trachea, a procedure made necessary after the girl swallowed a battery last year.

Air Force Maj. (Dr.) Robert Elwood, chief of pediatrics at Craig Joint Theater Hospital, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, and Air Force Capt. LaRita Abel, nurse manager in the hospital's intensive-care wing, hold a news conference about Nazia Gardezi's upcoming surgery at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center with Afghan media, March 30, 2009. In the middle, Nazia sits on the lap of her brother, Hatiquallah Gardezi. The Afghan girl was later flown to Cincinnati for reconstructive trachea surgery. U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Kimberly D. Cole (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Nazia Gardezi had been a permanent resident of the intensive-care wing at Craig Joint Theater Hospital here since October, when she was brought back to the hospital with severe pneumonia due the family's inability to suction her airway properly.

"Unfortunately," explained Air Force Maj. (Dr.) Robert Elwood, chief pediatrician at the hospital, "this kind of airway takes a certain amount of routine care. A lot of suctioning needs to take place, and the family's living circumstances made it where they were really incapable of taking care of it properly."

Elwood said the team of physicians who treated Nazia here was able to repair the injury to her esophagus, but the airway had narrowed from scarring, and Nazia could not move air in and out of her lungs.

"Fortunately, a group from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center learned of her case and has offered a team of highly specialized surgeons to do a reconstruction of her trachea," Elwood said.

As the team of physicians prepared Nazia for her four-to-six-month trip, Elwood said she will be greatly missed.

"She has learned to walk here, and has learned a very impressive vocabulary for a 2-year-old," Elwood said. "The team has come to think of her like one of their own children. You have to stand in line to get a chance to play with her."

Air Force Capt. LaRita Abel, nurse manager for the intensive care wing, agreed.

"She really has become a part of our family. Every nurse and every technician really adores her," Abel said, adding that she will miss Nazia dearly while she's gone.

"She has been a real pleasure to take care of," Abel said. "It's been a challenge, and it's been an honor."

Once the reconstruction to Nazia's trachea is complete, she will no longer need her tracheotomy and will be able to return to a normal life with her family, doctors said.

That sits well with Elwood.

"She's been a star," Elwood said. "She is a very special little girl, and we've been very fortunate to have her."

(Army Pfc. Kimberly D. Cole serves with the 40th Public Affairs Detachment.)
~~~~~

I knew to watch for the notice of Nazia's arrival at Children's Hospital. My Adventures in Afghanistan had written of her months ago. I know the care Nazia will receive at Children's will be superb. In fact, Cincinnati Children's Hospital is world renown for their exemplary treatment and care of children's diseases and ailments. I've spent several nights there myself when one of my children had to have his tonsils removed years ago. Now, my grandchildren are benefiting from the expertise and knowledge contained within those walls.

'Tis special indeed to know that a child from Afghanistan is receiving those same benefits that so many in this area take for granted. Another 'little drop' that brings it all that much closer to home.




And so it goes......

It's Time...

Never miss an opportunity to make others happy, even if you have to leave them alone in order to do it.
~~~~~Author Unknown



After all this time, Larry, the cable guy got 'er done. It only took 3 visits, a multitude of calls, then the removal and replacement of all the cable in and under the house, as well as a new modem installed. But... I'm now able to connect to the 'net. Much faster than ever before to boot. Good golly! I'm ever so relieved. The bills are paid, and friends notified. Life is good.


'Tis too late for me to post my entire list of thoughts. Do yourself a favor and click on any and all those little links on the right side. I know that there a few that need to be updated. And they will be as soon as I find myself home again.

Hoping anyone that drops by here is having a wonderful day. Don't forget to smile at another, brighten a day that may be filled with darkness. It happens, you know?



And so it goes......

A Few Actions And Reactions...

Remember, people will judge you by your actions, not your intentions. You may have a heart of gold - but so does a hard-boiled egg.
~~~~~Author Unknown



Late last night, after work, I was able to check out a few of my daily reads. Well, they are daily when I have the internet...But I digress.

It seems that there are more and more bullies here in the states, and the ever growing smaller world, that think they can do whatever they want to whomever they want and no one will care. Guess what? I've got news for them! We do care. We care a whole hellava lot. Especially if it is done to one or all of 'Our Guys'.

I'm going to list a few of those actions taken by some very uncaring people. You can decide your reactions and the course of actions on them...



Marcus Lutrell (Lone Survivor author, Navy SEAL) had his therapy dog, Dasy, shot by a few joy-riding, dog killing idiots in Texas. Please check this post from Blackfive to get the full story.
Only by Marcus chasing those a**wipes through 4 counties and then having enough self control not to justifiably put a few more orifices into them, he kept them 'safe' till the Rangers arrived.

My reaction? Boys, there ain't a place on God's green earth big enough for y'all to hide. Oh, and you can bet on this, paybacks are a bitch! Yours will be extra special... Y'all best be very very worried and afraid.

Mr. Lutrell, please accept my condolances on the loss of your dog. I know how very special those bonds with our four legged friends are.

One more thing on this. If you haven't read Marcus Lutrell's book, Lone Survivor. Please do yourself the favor of buying it immediately!!


Another from Blackfive, comes the request for support for a couple of 'Our Guys'. SFC Kevin Dupont was injured in an IED blast in Afghanistan. Kevin was burnt severely in the blast to the point that even his lungs were seared. His wife, Lisa, is at his side. She, too, is a member of that special group of people we call 'Our Guys'.

Please, if you do nothing else to show some support for the men and women who have our backs, do something for this couple. Blackfive has the addresses for cards and letters as well as the info for monetary support. Even though things are tough around here, I know I can spare a few minutes of my day to write a card and even a few dollars to show the Duponts that my debt to them is one that can never be repaid.


Here's a post from Bill and Bob that you must read and take the requested action on... Apparently there was one or more of those "higher pay grades" that decided the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) rooms at the FOB's and COB's in Afghanistan don't need free internet for 'Our Guys' who are putting their life on the line day in and day out. Oh, there is internet available. BUT...'Our Guys' will have to pay for it out of pocket. To the tune of about 200 bucks/month. WTF!

That little silver thread that keeps the insanity at bay must be returned to the ones who deserve it the most... For FREE.

Supposedly Pres. Obama made the statement that our troops would be given the support they need. I don't see this as support, do you?

What to do? Write a letter, email, or fax. Go here for a complete listing of every state's Congressmen and Representative. Better yet, give them a call. Nothing says "I care." better than talking to another person on the phone.


Now here's another request from me... bookmark the above link. Conservativeusa.org has a comprehensive listing of links to everything you need to keep those in 'power' aware of our thoughts. As well as a listing of talk shows and the phone numbers you can call to express your personal opinions.

Now, 'tis up to you to take all of the above requested actions or not.




And so it goes......

Recommendation From 'The Duke'...

The departure of our boys to foreign parts with the ever-present possibility that they might never return, taught the real value of photography to every father and mother. To many a mother the photograph of her boy in his country's uniform was the one never-failing consolation.
~~~~~Louis Fabian Bachrach



On my post from a few days ago, I received a comment from "The Duke" who has returned to the 'Stan from his R&R. He left me this recommendation for a photo essay to go view.
Once I did, I was glad he had sent it to me. Because, I hadn't found it already as he had thought. I also saw it linked to on FB. There were quite a few outstanding photographs showcased in that essay. The thing that really irritated me though, were the comments left by those who had a different perspective of those photographs. While the majority of them were supportive thoughts, there were those who, for some reason or another, were vastly different in tone and negativity.

I guess I'll never get my head wrapped around the fact that not everyone who enjoys the freedoms our country affords us, doesn't support the efforts and sacrifices 'Our Guys' are making. Mind boggling to be sure.


But please check out the link above. Perhaps if ALL the supporters were to leave a positive comment, then those negative thinkers might have to rethink their view. I know...I can hope, can't I?



And so it goes......

Changes I See...

The most exhausting thing in life is being insincere.
~~~~~Anne Morrow Lindbergh


Personally, I've seen many changes in the last week or so. Hearing and listening to the voices speak into the wind, some that can't be denied. But... and that's a mighty big word to use. Life goes on here in my little valley.

Most of my weekend was spent in the pursuit of quality time with the Hunny Bunnies and Booger Butts. We had beautiful weather to enjoy. The creek was just muddy enough for them to take delight in the playing. There were plenty of dandelion flowers along with some other flowering weeds for them to pick and present to me. Bikes were removed from their storage spot, with pleas to remove the training wheels. If only I had the tools...

I noted the garden area is in need of being prepped for planting, which will have to wait for the big Little Brother to complete. It's fast approaching the warmth needed for the seeds to sprout. Or so I thought. I've been told to expect snow tonight.

When least expected, there were personal complications added to the equation. None that can't be overcome with an honest "Let's sit down, We'll work this stuff out" conversation. Of course, both parties must be willing to acknowledge the problem, work on the situation, and most importantly, to take responsibility for their part of the problem and solution. Cause...as everyone knows, it takes two to tango.

We'll see how that works out.

I did get aggravated with the continued 'connect then dis-connect' of my cable 'net. I'm still waiting for Larry; the cable guy, to announce his impending arrival. Thankfully I was able to catch brief snippets of the news and opinions of a few. Even my new fangled phone wasn't co-operating. I assume the universe was trying to tell me something. What? Haven't figured that one out yet. But I did enjoy the days spent with the piglets.

Another work week is nigh, and as much as I'm thankful for the continued 'place of the paycheck', somehow I'm not quite ready to go. Maybe it's due to the fact that there are so many more chores to be completed, or maybe I could use some "me" time. Alas, that doesn't pay the bills. I'll try to put on my happy face and thoughts, singing "Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it's off to work I go", secretly wishing I could curl up on the couch with a good movie to watch or a book, whilst enjoying the gray weepy skies above.




And so it goes......

Brat Says It So Well...

To live in hearts we leave behind
Is not to die.
~Thomas Campbell


A must read for your list today, is Brat's post honoring SSG Jason Arnett. Please pause for a few minutes as you read and thank God that we were blessed to have men such as him.

I know I'm late in posting this, but the cable guy was unable to fix the net connection. It works then it doesn't. Anyways, while you are reading at Brat's site, be sure to scroll down to her post on Wounded Combat Warriors. They are needing a bit of help. A worthy cause to support each and every day.


While I've still got connection to the net, I'm going back to reading my daily addictions. Maybe, just maybe, I'll be able to post a few laughs later. But I'm not going to be holding my breath.




And so it goes......

Combat Outpost...

Sometimes the littlest things in life are the hardest to take. You can sit on a mountain more comfortably than on a tack.
~~~~~Author Unknown







Army Staff Sgt. Robert Rios, right, and Pfc. Michael Halter, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, lead a patrol down during a village assessment in the Jalrez Valley of Afghanistan's Wardak province, March 12, 2009. This was the troops' first stop in the village as they worked their way out from the nearby combat outpost Apache. DoD photo by Fred W. Baker III
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

The story behind this picture is here. You do want to know the rest of the story, don't you??




And so it goes......