Mail!

To be quite clear - an Eagle, Globe, and Anchor tattoo is not in my future. I'll expand that statement even further - no tattoo of any sort will grace my skin. For a long time now, one of my worst fears in life would be that after a heavy night of tomfoolery, I would wake up with a throbbing pain in my shoulder and look down to see some sort of permanent ink picture affixed to my body. I surmise that one of my Sailors would have convinced me that it was a great idea and I guess in my deteriorated state I agreed. I've managed to stave off that event - even after visiting several third world nations, including Mexico. I plan to keep it that way. Tattoo's are a personal choice and I have no problem with them - it is just not my choice.

Today mail arrived for the first time in almost two weeks. Not real sure what the hold up was - but at any rate, I still give the USPS a thumbs up for keeping the mail wait time down. After all, it isn't like Iraq has a real large infrastructure nor can it control a mail convoy once it arrives. Much to my chagrin, I was once again the envy of the battalion. I had 4 packages waiting for me. Unlike the viewers of the Soprano's finale, or so I've read, I was not left staring into the black hole of imaginary boxes. Thanks for the offer, TJ, but I have to respectfully decline. I'd just rather wait until it comes out on DVD and watch the whole season. However, if you can offer up some baked ziti and red wine - I'll acquiesce.

First, the Long Beach Moody's provided some DVDs and much need drink mix packages. Meg came off the top rope and provided 6 movies, all of which I haven't seen. Not too bad for someone who likes watching tennis on the television. Natchez, MS weighed in with plenty of beef jerky and drink mixes - you'll see a great pattern develop with the drink mixes and jerky. Even Mr. Herky Jerky Golf Swing himself, of Abita Springs came off the golf course with some beef jerky and some CDs! Lastly, Colleen (in her usual form) delivered with a nice sundry mix of items. As sad as it may seem, the best item from her package, was a pair of headphones. Now I can actually listen to music from my IPod in both ears! And yes, she included a plethora of beef jerky and sugar free drink mixes! Thank you all very much. I really appreciate it and I want ya'll to know that getting mail makes my day. It is just something about getting mail that is exciting. I never understood why my Dad was/is habitually crazy about the mail - almost to the point of stalking, asking "Did the mail come? Um, that's interesting, it usually here by now ... I wonder what's wrong?" I can now say that after five deployments - I get it. I guess it all centers around the point that mail is exciting b/c it represents home and hopefully, something new that just isn't available. I sense that I am rambling.

The beef jerky was much needed. We have some things going on and collateral is always a good thing. Now, all I need to complete my quest for domination in Iraq is a case of Monster! Don't take that as a request to send a case - seriously, that isn't needed and it would cost way too much of the American greenback.

Two of my fellow EWOs - who are taking year long vacations in Baghdad - are trying to expand my horizon and get me to read and appreciate poetry. The first part I have succeeded at - I can read. The second endeavor is a much more difficult task. With some hint of excitement, I have come to the following conclusion: I don't get poetry, don't want to, and just don't care. I'm sure that comes as a big shock. I'd much rather argue my status as a Padre fanatic and lament in what has become the constant one run game, which has to be decided in the 9th inning. Now if I can only figure out a way to parlay that into a six figure job with the Padres! John Mooers, Sandy Alderson, Kevin Towers - if your out there and want to offer me a job - yes, I'll beg ... SIGN ME UP!!!