Best Imitation of Myself

Had a great weekend

2008-10-16T16:19:00.004+03:00

Had a great weekend in West Virgina rafting the Lower and Upper Gauley. Unfortunetly that's the end of rafting season on the Gauley River, and I won't get to go again until next fall :(

I think I am going to take up kayaking next year and try not to get myself killed. The one and only time I got myself in a kayak resulted in me almost drowning. Somehow that challenges me to try it again, maybe I'm just a dumb ass.

We camped out that weekend too, which was a lot of fun. My idea of camping was a Queen sized air mattress with just as many blankets and pillows that I have at home. Is that really camping? Who knows, but I was certaintly comfy.

It's been so long..............

2008-08-20T20:00:00.002+03:00

I miss blogging though. It's only been forever since my last post, but I actually miss it. Lets see what's new with Brandon....

-Getting ready to get out of the Navy in April of 09.

-Hoping to get into a good grad school.

-Hoping that my wife and I can live in the same zipcode (preferably same house) with whatever school I get into and whatever job she lands.

-Starting to run again, new Nike Ipod thing is pretty damn sweet and keeps me motivated as I have been hitting the pavement once again.

That's about it! Who know's if I will keep this up...........

My Dog has a problem

2006-07-24T18:09:00.000+04:00

Lilly my American Eskimo/Poodle mix is probably the best dog I have ever had. She is very loyal, extremely affectionate, and very well behaved. The one problem she does have though, is she likes to eat shit.

For some reason, nothing tastes better than a hot steaming crap cake. I don't know what her deal is, but its starting to worry me.

Last thursday, I got home late and decided to take Lilly with me to go and let my friends dog out. Lilly absolutely loves riding in the car, and its probably her favorite thing to do.

As I let her out the door, she went straight to the front yard and started scarving down a big turd that the neighbor's rottweiler left for her. I couldn't stop her in time, and she ended up eating quite a bit.

I threw her in the car, and we started to drive to my friends house. Apparently the crap cake didn't settle well with her stomach, and she threw up all over the passenger seat and floor carpet. Big chunks of poop came out, and it was probably the worse smelling thing ever.

For pretty much 4 days, my car smelled horrific. I steam cleaned it, put NUMEROUS deodorizers, and detergents over everything, and it still lingered. I think by now it is pretty much gone, but still..... Gross.

weak stomachs do not read on!

2006-07-14T17:11:00.000+04:00

Yesterday I had the strange and unusual honor of witnessing an autopsy first hand! Some people will probably think this is disgusting and morbid, but I thought it was really cool! Of course me being in the medical field had a lot to do with it.

They started off by making a Y incision in the chest, cutting the chest cavity out where the cartilage meets the ribs. Once the chest is opened up, they take out all of the organs to examine and weigh them.

The next thing they do is make an incision along the occipital region of the head. Next, they peel the skin from the top of the head over the face. Imagine the back of your head peeled over your eyes, nose and mouth. It really was a crazy site. Next, they use a bone saw to open up the skull and take out the brain. Stuffing the brain cavity with absorbant material, they put the skull back together and peel back the face over the back of the skull.

The next and last step is the dissection of the neck. Reaching in through the chest cavity the neck muscles are cut through in order to get to the floating Hyoid bone which also is connected to the tounge. This is a time consuming process and takes about 15 minutes. Once all the cuts were made, the Pathologist removes the hyoid bone, and tounge as one complete unit through the chest cavity.

The guy who got the autoposy committed suicide, it was pretty sad. He was a young man, and had a whole life ahead of him. I prayed for him and his family, but still appreciated the learning experience.

I was so hungry after the autopsy that I had to go get some Taco Bell.

ADHD

2006-07-12T16:43:00.000+04:00

I am forgetful...

My short term memory sucks....

I often lose things of importance, like keys, my wallet, stuff like that....

I cannot focus on one thing for very long.

I have no attention span....

I always thought I had symptoms of Attention Deficiet Hyperactivity Disorder, even as a kid I think I struggled with it. Over the years into adulthood, I developed into a personality that had to deal with my problems with inattention.

I finally got tested by a Neuropsychologist last week, and the results showed that I do in fact likely have ADHD. I see a doctor in an hour to see if they will treat it. I think some doctors don't really like to treat adult ADD, but in my case I really need it.

I struggle with working a full time job and going to college on the side. I just can't concentrate and it really bothers me. I am hoping that the Psychiatrist will try and help me with this, but I guess I will find out. I will be sure to let the 2 people who read my blog know what happens ;)

As you all (or should I say both) know, I took many months off from the blog world. In Iraq I had all the time in the world to be creative, and have fun with it. When I got back to civilization I found that time was more precious and better spent on other things. I have been lacking in the creativeness department for awhile. Maybe if I can focus better, I can get some of that creativeness back.

I guess we will see....

Going nuts at home

2006-07-11T15:58:00.000+04:00

Who said having roomates would be a good idea???

Oh yeah! ME!

Not so much...

One of them is most definitly Bipolar and has some serious mental issues in my opinion.

The other has been a good friend for awhile, but we do get on eachothers nerves.
She is leaving in 2-3 weeks, so I'm sure it will be a good thing if we arent living with eachother.

It is my opinion that I am the perfect roomate. Am I in denial? probably...
I really watch myself, and try to be as respectable as possible, I constantly clean, I would never imagine setting foot in either of their rooms or even bathroom!

Just frustrated. I think that having a roomate could definietly help with the bills, but I think it takes a very compatible personality to make it work. I'm definietly not getting that right now!

Haven't blogged in ages

2006-03-20T18:15:00.000+03:00

Had a very busy weekend! I finally got some roomates, and I think it is going to work out great. My friend Carrie moved in on Friday, and by Sunday another friend of hers Holly, was looking for a place. It worked out great. REALLY good people, and I really feel like I have nothing to worry about. Holly came out on Saturday to hang out, and I thought she was really cool. Then by Sunday she was moved in! She lives on a ship, so she was really glad to get off!

Carrie mowed half of my lawn, and it's honestly really nice to have people around. Carrie is part of the Big Sister, Big brother program, and she has a little sister named Dakota. We took her to church on Sunday, and I made dinner Sunday night. I am getting VERY attached to this little 10 year old, and she is such a sweetheart. Her living situation is pretty sad, but she is such a good girl. All she needs is guidance, and I hope to be a positive Male role model in her life. We went shopping for church dresses before church, and Carrie and I bought 2 full outfits. I forgot to take pictures unfortunetly. Next week we will take pictures for sure!

So I'm sorry I had to get a couple of hotties, but I couldn't help it!

Friday night was fun too, St. Patty's Day was a complete drunk fest. My keys fell out of my pocket, and that was pretty scary. I ended up getting them at the bar the next day! Well I better get to work!

dial up sucks

2006-03-09T17:06:00.000+03:00

Still in Kentucky. Have been kept busy despite the fact I really need to study! Maybe today I will hit the books. It's been a blast spending time with the dogs when Hiromi is working. I am going to take Lilly back, which should definitely help with the whole lonliness feeling that comes with living by yourself.

Still looking for a roomate or two. If you know of any hotties in the VB area, let me know. They don't have to be hot I will just charge them more.

So basically thats all I have to say now. Arent you glad you wasted your precious few minutes to read this garbagE?

Well deserved break!

2006-03-03T05:59:00.000+03:00

I cannot wait to get on the road tomorrow. I really hate driving, but it will be nice to reach Kentucky and spend a week with my wife! She is moving to San Antonio for a few months, maybe more, so this will be a good opportunity for us to spend some time together. I can't blame her for wanting a career, even if it takes her away from me :(

Hiromi has to work the whole week, but I will get to see her at night, which will be nice. I am hoping to start running again, especially since I will have the time! I will definitely be making dinner for Hiromi, and spending some time with my 2 dogs.

I am really considering taking Lilly back with me, she doesnt ever want to listen to Hiromi. We will see I guess! See you all soon!

blah

2006-03-01T08:11:00.000+03:00

When will school end?

When will I be able to concentrate on only school and not work like a maniac?

Who said what doesn't kill you will make you stronger?

Do I want to go to Medical School or PA school?

100,000 a year vs 300,000 a year.

8 years plus residency vs 2 years plus training.

AFTER I get my Bachelors....

Grrrr I just want to fast forward my life and get to the good parts. :(

As promised

2006-02-27T05:02:00.000+03:00

Pics from chicago!

Had a great weekend in Chicago!

2006-02-21T22:49:00.000+03:00

What a great weekend.

I got to see Bill, Paul and Minerva, not to mention mi familia. What a great time.

Minerva took us to this amazing sushi place in Chicago called Mirai. It was a very nice place, and the sushi was the best I have ever tasted. Yes, better sushi then I have had in Japan! No joke.

I left a nice review. I had to leave a nice one after this one girl that met us there left a shitty review. The girl didn't have a clue and made herself look like an ass. Check it out if you want a nice laugh.

Bill Paul and I, hit up RUSH ST. and did some bar hopping before going for sushi. We went into Ditkas restauraunt and asked the bartender what kind of shot Ditka would drink. He was a smart ass, and said that Ditka only drinks wine. What a tool. So we ended up having a shot of the tastiest Tequila ever. Petron Silver. Yum.

This was all after we polished off a case of beer at Bill's apartment in the city. It was definitely a complete drunk fest. This one 21 year old kid brother of the girl that made the stupid review ended up going to another bar with us after sushi.

This is where it gets interesting. After having a blast with Minerva at this Pseudo Irish bar. Minerva drops us off at Bills apartment. The kid that was hanging out with us, we will call him John. Wanted to go out and keep drinking. We told him that there were no bars open at 3 a.m. but he didnt want to listen. He ended up taking my friends keys while he was passed out on the coach, and basically totaled it! It was an older car, but that is certaintly not the point. The kid doesnt have a job, and it looks like his sister and brother and law are graciously covering up for the kid.

The next day after the fiasco, I called my friend Bill and told them that they really need to go to the police before it gets worse. Apparently Bill and I were the only people who thought doing the right thing was the best bet. These clowns are still trying to get away with it. I really hope he gets caught, and takes responsibility for his actions. I blew up with his sister last night, and got pretty pissed off about it. They can cover for him all he wants, but Karma has a way of catching up with everybody.

It's sad that only 2 of my friends thought doing the right thing was the best bet. Really disapointed about that one.

Oh well, some people just dont have any class. What can you do?

I will post pictures later on from the fun night.

B

Havent been around

2006-02-02T06:08:00.000+03:00

School is literally killing me.

I thought it would be difficult to take 4 classes and work full time, but I did it anyway. A CLASSIC Brandon thing to do. I am an overachiever in basically everything I do. Hardly something horrible, but it still has it's consequences. I have my first Anatomy and Physiology test tomorrow. Not really looking forward to it, but wish me luck!

I saw Hiromi Last weekend, we stayed on the border of Tennessee and Virginia. Really pretty country. Here are a couple pictures for your enjoyment.

I'm going to crash now.

B

Been busy with school

2006-01-20T05:12:00.000+03:00

Working full time, school 4 nights a week.

Been BUSY.

No time for any blogage.

Met a cool friend though. Shes my lab partner. Cool chick.

Other than that, same old crap just more stress.

Will probably post more in the future.

B

My first Thursday Thirteen

2006-01-06T04:19:00.000+03:00

Thirteen Things about Brandon

1. My wife left this morning to go back to Kentucky. It was such a wonderful 2 weeks with her, I am looking forward to us being together permanently in 2007.

2. I met with a realtor today to possibly sell my house, I am looking at a possible 85 grand profit if I sell my house after 2 years. I am thinking about getting a fixer upper in a historical neighborhood.

3. I miss my dogs, they are with Hiromi.

4. I miss my wife's cooking.

5. Thirteen is a special number for me, I was born on Friday the 13th.

6. I'm watching the Daily Show right now, its frickin hilarious.

7. I haven't been on the computer much while Hiromi was here. She seriously keeps me organized and balanced. When she isn't here, I sometimes wonder what I should do next.

8. I haven't really been listening to music lately. My IPOD is still broken, and I need to fight with Apple to get it repaired, since it is after the 1 year warranty. This is the replacement IPOD though, so they shouldn't send me a wack one.

9. I have been learning how to mix drinks at home. I made my own version of a Long Island ice tea with wild cherry diet pepsi, and that gardiania crap, however you spell it.

10. There was a commercial about Diet coke and bacardi a second ago. There was a midget on there dancing. Hilarious.

11. I saw Chronicles of Narnia the other night, I highly recommend it.

12. I have yet to work out this year. It wasn't one of my resolutions, so I don't feel guilty.

13.I start school on Monday, so my blogs will probably be less frequent, if that is even humanely possible. I only read like 2 or 3 blogs anyway, so it's all good.

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

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Happy New Years (Hopefully not as dramatic as Christmas)

2006-01-01T06:14:00.000+03:00

So we are about 2 hours from 2006, and I am just chillin at home watching Napolean Dynamite with Hiromi. She has never seen it before, and doesn't seem too interested in it. You really need to watch it a couple of times to really appreciate it.

I haven't been online much at all since Hiromi came home for the holidays. We have been getting alot of things done around the house. One thing I really wanted to get done was to get ORGANIZED. I know JQ, I am stealing you're resolution...

So in the spirit of Jacquie, I reorganized my pantry, and basically most of the odds and ends around the house. The Navy store by me had a big sale on Rubbermade storage containers, so I went to town and got alot of em. It's amazing what a difference organizing can make. I have freed up so much storage space, and everything is so easy to find. One of my new years resolutions is to keep it that way ;)

Another big resoultion I have is to not be lazy when I come home, and to not take short cuts when I do things at home. It's crazy because at work, I am so focused. I guess I just work too hard at work.

Christmas was pretty nice and very DRAMATIC.

I don't want to get into it too much on this forum, but on a past post I talked about how my loser brother and his white trash girlfriend got pregnant again for the second time in less than 2 years. Well if you take a look at this:

http://www.herald-citizen.com/NF/omf.wnm/herald/news_story.html?[rkey=0038258+[cr=gdn

you will get an idea of what I am talking about.

My brother went out with my Dad, sis, wife, and me to gatlinburg for a day trip. Ivy my brothers girlfriend (real name is Crystal, but goes by Ivy), was going to stay home with the baby because she is 7 months pregnant and it would be hard to do all that walking.

Apparently trying to have sex with some mutual friend of my brother and hers wasn't as physically hard on her. She and a friend got wasted on vodka and did who knows what with this "friend".

I get a call from my grandpa on our way back, and he told us that his girlfriend was in a head on collision, and we didn't know where their child was at.

Lets just start off by saying that she doesn't have a license, and she was borrowing my brother's car without permission.

SO the police go to my brothers apartment to see if the baby was left there. THe police noticed that there was a girl on the couch and a baby walking around. The girl would not answer the door, so the police walked into the place and had to physically wake up the passed out and drunk friend that was left with the baby. The girl stated that she had no idea where my brothers girlfriend was, and that she was so drunk that she was making out with her. This girl was real rough looking too.

So DCS was called on my brother and his girlfriend due to the child being left in the care of someone who was not responsible. Talk about neglect, I think it is a pretty clear cut case. I even emailed DCS and gave them additional information, and told them I would love to be of any assistance.

They are not fit to be parents, and the kids need to be taken away from them. Very sad indeed. My Gparents have tempoary custody, which is by far the best place for her.

Apparently the DUI case is headed to a grand jury. I hope she goes to prison. I can only hope that our system will try to reform a selvish whore that only cares about herself. My brother says he is commited all of a sudden, even though they both cheat on eachother when they can. She totaled his car and he is taking a taxi to work. She is the one that got him mixed up in Crystal Meth.

I'm sorry, but anyone who is 7 months pregnant and is getting that drunk just needs to be shot in the head. I know its harsh to say, but talk about disgusting.

I am going to call the DA and let them know that I would be happy to be a witness.

Pretty dramatic, I know I said I wasn't going to get into it on here, but I couldn't help it. It bothers me that a member of my family is so stupid.

Oh yeah, and as for the health of the girlfriend and her baby. She broke her leg in 3 places and had to go into surgery. She also gave birth to her baby by emergency C section. They are looking into adoption, but the girl wants to keep her. Who knows what will happen. My brother's biggest worry is that he would have to pay child support. So sad... He of course still needs to get a DNA test for his first child and for the second child if he was to keep it. He's not sure if they are is.

I love my STD

2005-12-15T16:16:00.000+03:00

So I have a bit of a hangover, but still have a smile on my face from the concert last night. First off, let me just point out a couple of unusual things.

First off, I felt like I was some old pathetic married guy at the concert, most people werent old enough to drink, and the people who were old enough mainly sat upstairs. I like to be as close to the stage as possible, but I don't like mosh pits, I think they are stupid. I stood at the edge of a few mosh pits last night, and felt like I had to protect some very small girls standing next to me. So basically if anyone got close to me I would throw them away, basically adding to the stupid mosh pit. Some guy got carried away and was taken away by security.

Say Anything didn't end up opening it was two other bands, The Last November I think, and Emmanuel. Both have record deals, and werent bad at all.

Saves the day was AWESOME. I have been listening to them for about 4 years now. One of my best friends was really into Emo, and turned me on to a bunch of bands. Saves The Day quickly became my favorite, and I have followed them ever since.

Their first 3 cd's were really really good, but I felt they went in a new direction on their last album. There are a couple songs I like, just not the entire album like the first 3. Stay what you are, and Through being cool, are two of the best in my opinon.

Well I was happy to see, that they played all old stuff at the concert. It was awesome, the crowd was really amped, and it makes a concert so much more fun when you know all the words to the songs.

Senses Fail was pretty good. I like a couple of there songs alot, but just recently started listening to them. I didn't stay for their whole set, cause I wanted to get out of there earlier to avoid traffic, and to check on poor Lana who got fixed a couple days ago.

Here are some pictures:

good news and bad news

2005-12-14T03:53:00.000+03:00

I'll start with the bad:

BAD:

Had to shell out $500 bucks just for text books today. Gay.

Good:

I noticed that one of my favorite bands is playing downtown tomorrow night, and I got tickets.

I'm seeing Saves the Day, Senses Fail, and Say Anything.

Say Anything I discovered online a few years back, I paid 10.00 bucks for their demo cd from their lead singers Mom!

They will get bigger for sure. I haven't really followed them much, but I love their sound, looking forward to going to a show, it's been too long.

hopefully this works

2005-12-13T05:00:00.000+03:00

counting crows live

New Ipod

2005-12-10T03:11:00.000+03:00

I just got my new IPOD in the mail.

Can you guess how much it cost?

30 bucks.

You know why?

Because my IPOD I got this time last year is still under warranty and had crapped out.

Apparently Apple feels it is cheaper to give new IPODS out instead of fixing the ones they send out.

Fine by me!

I am trying to update my IPod now. We will see if it was actually the IPOD that was broken or my crappy computer.

Happy Monday

2005-12-05T14:20:00.000+03:00

Hardly

However I did wake up early today and make breakfast and have my coffee. I think I was able to do this because I slept in all weekend. Thank God for catch up sleep. I hope that this week will go well.

Repairs on my family room will start tuesday or wednesday. I really need to get this place put back together. I can't stand clutter.

I was able to stay home this weekend and get a bunch of stuff done. If I can clean up for myself right away, I won't have such big messes to clean. It really just comes from discipline I guess.

Here is a picture of the most adorable sweetest dog in the world.

If that doesn't brighten you're day, then you are a cold hearted SOB. Yeah I said it.

Exciting day

2005-11-29T03:26:00.000+03:00

I took the day off of work since I had an emergency with the water damage and all. Things ended up working out fairly well. I was able to get the Plumber, and water damage specialists out right away.

Right now there are 4 industrial fans attempting to dry my carpet. There are also huge chunks of dry wall taken out, waiting to be replaced. My deductable was $500, so between the car and the house, we have spent $1,000 this month on accidents. Talk about a rough month!

I'm hoping Decemeber will be better, but with Christmas I know it won't. I haven't been able to get into Christmas much these past few years. I don't get into decorating, and really could go without a Christmas tree. My grandma bought a 9 foot artificial tree a few years ago, and every year my Grandpa and I have to put it together. We both could do without the tree, and certaintly a 9 foot one.

My little cousin asked my Papa why we were putting up the tree. You would think he would say something about Christmas coming up. nope.

"Because you're Grandma told us too." haha

Classic. I couldn't stop laughing. My cousin with her 4 year old attitude says "I don't think that's very funny!"

Papa says:

"Apparently you don't get the joke then". haha

Call me Scrooge, but Christmas is more trouble than what it's worth. I still don't know what to get Hiromi, and she keeps telling me that since we have had such a rough month that I am not allowed to get her anything for her birthday or Christmas.

I will have to think of something creative, and put the thoughts of getting her something really nice out of my head.

I have something special planned for her birthday on the 18th, but won't spill the beans quite yet, Hiromi has been known to check the blog out from time to time.

That is all for now.

Back

2005-11-28T06:29:00.000+03:00

Thanksgiving was alright. It was good to see the family, but I didn't get a whole lot of alone time with my beautiful wife.

Came home to find a busted pipe in my house. lots of damage. Have to take care of that now. After this bowl of ice cream of course.

Chicken Tikka Masala

2005-11-22T03:06:00.000+03:00

My friend Eric's wife is Indian, so I asked her for a good Indian food recipe.

I LOVE Indian food. I didn't start eating it until my 20th birthday though. I had a stigma about eating Indian food, and always said I wouldn't ever try it.

As a teenager, I would always dread going to P.E. It wasn't because I am not athletic, I had a good time when we would play sports, or lift weights. The reason I hated going to Gym class was because there were certain people in the locker room that smelled REALLY bad.

These people were either Indians, or Pakistanis. I am not sure, probably a little bit of both. Well, for whatever reason the majority of them smelled really bad. It was a very unique smell, gagging nonetheless, but still unique. I think it came out of their pores, I'm not sure what their bathing habits were either.

Of course not every single Indian smelled bad, but a few rotten apples ruined the changing and unchanging ritual before P.E. for me. I don't mean to stereotype here, if you smelled them you would know what I am talking about. (Had to add that disclaimer, due to the increase in commie pinko politically correct hippies that seem to be multiplying in horrific numbers).

So on my 20th birthday, I was in Japan. I had the day off from work, but my wife still had to work. Why they didn't give her the day off for this holiday is beyond me. I took the train to Hiroshima, and thought I would see the sights, and do a little shopping.

I came across this big outdoor mall, and decided I would get something to eat. I had been eating alot of Japanese curry dishes since I came to Japan at 19, and I smelled some really good curry. After investigating, I realized it was an Indian restaruant. I decided that since I was the ripe age of 20, that I would put my missconceptions behind me, and give it a shot.

It ended up being a life changing experience for me. I eat Indian food whenever I can, and my greatest fear has never come true. I never smelled like the stinky foreigners from Gym class. Imagine that!

Here is a picture of my attempt at Chicken Tikka Masala

(the white stuff is some half and half I put in it, because I forgot to buy some cream. It actually tastes better without the half and half)

I made it again tonight, to take to this "ethnic" potluck we are having tomorrow at work. I don't know who's bright idea it was to change our Thanksgiving potluck to something "ethnic". As long as one of the girls brings in some sweet potatoe pie, it will be worth it. I told a couple of people at work what I was bringing, and they are all pretty excited.

It should be cool now, so I'll give it a try.

new design

2005-11-19T07:01:00.000+03:00

who likey?

Getting Colder

2005-11-19T05:24:00.000+03:00

Finally broke down and put the furnace on. I had this crazy idea that I would last the winter with a couple of radiator space heaters, and use zone heating in the family room and kitchen. The only problem is, my family room used to be a 2 car garage and a space heater doesnt cut it. I suck at being cheap.

This weekend I will be all alone. I saw Hiromi the past 2 weekends in a row, and have had enough of her. No, that's not true! I am going up for thanksgiving, so there is no point in spending the money when I am going to see her 3 days later.

I plan on driving like hell as soon as I get off on Wednesday night. I will most likely have about 6 red bulls on the way, and still get sleepy. I will have to be smart this time and pull over when I get tired, we don't need another accident.

Speaking of accidents, the damage to my car was only $2,000! I was expecting it to be ALOT more. They need to order a new quarter panel, and I am not sure if they are replacing the bumper or not. I have a $500 deductable, so hopefully my rates won't go up too much!

That was seriously the first accident that I have ever caused that was my own fault. Hiromi likes to remind everyone that I backed into a small pole one time. The damage was so insignificant, we didn't even really need to do anything to the car. It scratched our black car in a few places and we used black sharpie to fill it in. That's redneck as all get out, but it worked.

I think living in Japan has made me a pretty damn good driver. The roads are literally half the size, and you have to drive through crazy mountanous passes. They have mirrors up everywhere so you can go fast while taking sharp turns.

I really miss my second home, I think about it quite a bit. Such a peaceful people, that would do anything for their neighbor. That's how it was in the boonies, Tokyo isn't quite the same, but still similar.

Well, I hope that everyone has a GREAT weekend. Enjoy you're weekend with you're hubby Jax! I'm sure you will read this when you get back, so I hope you had fun!

Funny picture of the day:
(By the way, if you find this racist or in the least bit offensive: Kiss my ass, it's a cute picture)

you probably already saw this

2005-11-18T06:59:00.000+03:00

Well, I think it's funny...

Fun amongst the dead

2005-11-15T04:56:00.000+03:00

I don't know if you think I am twisted or not, but I enjoy reading tombstones at cemetaries. You can tell alot from a tombstone, some will tell a bit about the person's life, others will just have the dates. SOME if you look really closely will reveal subtle hints into the identity of the person.

Here are some tombstones I photographed in Somerset, KY.

Apparently, Jamil Hays was known for being the "1st KY Gay". So if anyone ever asks you who the first homosexual in Kentucky was, now you know.

These twins were born on the same day, and died 8 days apart. Kinda sweet, yet creepy all at the same time.

I wonder why people call Kentuckians "Hicks" sometimes, maybe its because of these people.

I betcha he is praying for his head back.

Great weekend despite missing my flight and getting into an accident.

2005-11-14T17:36:00.000+03:00

This weekend actually turned out to be pretty nice, despite a pretty rocky start. I missed my flight from Norfolk to Lexington and had to fly to Louisville, Ky. Lousiville is about 3 hours from where Hiromi lives, which proved to be rather inconvenient.

By the time Hiromi came to get me on Thursday night, it was 9:30 pm. I was under the impression (because my wonderful wife told me) that Hiromi had to work the next day. So what entailed, was a fight against sleep to get my wife to bed so she could sleep.

Little after midnight, and 20 miles away from her apartment. Starting to get very very sleepy. Get behind a truck going 10 miles below the speedlimit, which is hauling a car behind it on a trailor. Guy puts his turn signal on for what seems 2 or 3 minutes and slows down. I figure he wants me to pass him since he passed up 3 or 4 opportunities to turn, so I try to pass him. He FINALLY decides to turn as I pass him, hitting the right side of car, smashing in the panel and door.

Call the cops, and get out of there 45 minutes later, FULLY awake!

Awake in the morning..... "By the way, I don't have to work today. I wanted to surprise you."

OKAY! I would have pulled over to get some sleep if I knew that. I'm always thinking about my wife, and looking out for her best interests. I think it was sweet, that she took Friday off to spend with me, but at the same time, Surprises can sometimes bite you in the arse.

So, despite a rocky start, the weekend turned out to be fun. We went hiking in the Cumberland mountains, and finished up our Christmas shopping. You would think that something like getting into an accident could kill a weekend, but we still managed to have fun.

Surprised Hiromi with a day spa facial, and bath. THAT was a good surprise! I also went to the cemetary and took some funny pictures, I will post them tonight hopefully.

One thing I know for certain, Hiromi needs to move back home to Virginia. I'm taking responsibility for the accident, but the stress of being apart just got a little out of hand.

ehh for now

2005-11-09T06:10:00.000+03:00

Tired and tipsy

This is what I wore though.

I ate some Tuna and some scrimp. I drank some scotch and some wine too. Oh yeah you are probably wondering where I went. Another lecture by the manufacturer of Aldara. It is a dermatology drug used to help speed the immune system into fighing skin conditions.

I talked with a bunch of people afterwards and did the whole networking thing. I have to meet with this one girl that works in the area about getting my certification for cutting tissue for MOHS surgery. Good contact fo sho.

The lady said she would also see about getting my lovely wife a job. That was nice of her. I have to work on Hiromi's resume, anyone good at resumes?

Okay gonna crash...

screw this diet

2005-11-08T13:55:00.000+03:00

I quit. Is this a record for the shortest lived diet? Probably not.

I wasn't in a good mood yesterday because I was hungry. I love to eat, I don't think there is anything wrong with that either. I need chocolate and lots of coffee, does that make me a bad person? Hell no.

I am revising my diet, to include eating whatever the hell I want to. I will just start exercising more, but not this morning I had too much wine last night. Normally I am not a wine drinker, but I was in the mood last night, so I opened up a bottle we got from a local winery in Williamasburg. It was O.K. Nothing spectacular. I really do prefer scotch.

I have another one of those lecture dinners tonight. Supposed to be at a really nice seafood restaurant down at the Beach. I never get to dress up nice, especially since I am in the military and have to wear my uniform all the time. So I am really looking forward to tonight.

In other news, my wife's Aunt in Japan has been working on a quilt for us for the past 2 years. She is an amazing quilt maker, and I am really impressed. I have taken a picture of how it looks, just to give you an idea.

This is where the magic happens:

Let the diet begin

2005-11-07T18:13:00.000+03:00

Today is the official re-start of the BrandonJQ diet challenge. I weighed in at 185 pounds this morning, and want to eventually get to 175. I don't really think I am that fat, I just want to shed a little weight off so I can feel like I am in better shape.

I started it off this morning with 30 minutes on the elipitical. I don't really have an exercise plan going, I'm thinking at least once a day for the first week, and maybe twice a day for the second week.

I am also trying the south beach diet. I am mostly eating the premade SBD foods made by Kraft, which is great because it's just me in the house right now, without a lovely wife to make me good food. When my wife is here, she cooks very healthy so I am definitely looking forward to her coming back around Christmas!

I will also throw some slim fast in there for breakfasts.

I am hoping that by posting this I will get my partner and myself motivated to keep up the hard work. Maybe if I keep it up, I can have a sweet beach body for next Summer.

Starbucks

2005-11-04T03:56:00.000+03:00

I seriously think I am addicted to Starbucks. In the morning I want it, after work I want it. Even in my dreams I want it. How could God make something so beautiful?

Whenever I am at work and things are slow, I think about Starbucks and my mind goes into another dimension. I love you Starbucks.

This is hilarious

2005-10-31T04:19:00.000+03:00

The Packers, trailing 21-14, reached the Bengals 28 with 23 seconds left. Brett Favre took the ensuing snap, but whistles quickly blew after the fan came onto the field. The unidentified man took the football out of Favre's hand and ran about 50 yards before being tackled by security guards and removed from the field.

Favre was sacked on the next play, and on the final snap, he completed an illegal pass beyond the line of scrimmage that came up short.

I HATE the Packers, being a die hard Chicago Bears fan, I was born to hate the Fudge Packs. That is probably why I find this extra hilarious. Their season is shot anyway. What kind of person would do something like this, you may ask: A Ohioan of course!

Sorry JAGS.

I haven't carved a pumpkin since......

2005-10-30T06:27:00.000+03:00

I was a young lad of about 13 or 14. I really can't remember carving a pumpkin as a teenager. I thought it would be a nice touch for my sister since she is only 6. I had to do the cutting for the pumpkin since she is still young, so don't blame the 6 year old for the crappy looking JACKASS lanterns. I am so not creative.

Shoutout to Mariko from Japan, who has been checking my blog out. She is from a very cold part of Japan, which is our equivilant of Alaska. Tonight Imade Fajitas (FA-GEE-TAS) which turned out really good.

Mariko, Fajitas are like Quesidillas (K-SA-DILL-AS) and are made with Tortillas (TOR-TILL-ASS). During my 4 years in Japan, I never saw a Mexican restaraunt outside Tokyo, so you probably have never had them. At least you will know how to pronounce the dishes if you come to the United States! Gambate-ne.

Well, I better get back to the Family. Take care and have a great Halloween weekend.

Family is here!

2005-10-29T05:56:00.000+03:00

Good to have loved ones in the house, thats for sure! Just thought I would check my puter before I went to bed. Seems like most everyone else is enjoying their Friday night. Good to hear! My sister is so excited to see me, I picked up some pumpkins to carve, and we will go trick or treatin on Halloween. It's good to see the little booger.

Good night to everyone in blog land, and hope you have a great weekend.

Who does this guy think he is?

2005-10-28T18:50:00.000+03:00

I always go home for lunch to let out Lana, and do whatever I need to do around the house. It's also a good chance for me to chat with some favorite people once in a while. Unfortunetly, today the on ramp to the Norfolk downtown tunnel, was backed up for many miles. I am very persistent and stubborn so I sat in in for an hour and a half, and finally turned around before getting on it. I could tell that I would probably be sitting there for another hour at least. Poor Lana is going to be very angry with me.

So, come to find out! The reason traffic is all screwy, is the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES is doing a speech in the area. Who the hell does this guy think he is?

Frustrated.

Plus, I get a call from my Grandma this morning saying that she won't be making the trip with my Grandpa, Dad, and sister. So that kind of sucks. The whole day started off bad when I walked outside and it started raining. I am going to go home early today, I think I deserve it.

What kind of guy forgets a stripper?

2005-10-28T06:15:00.000+03:00

I was checking Classmates.com a couple weeks ago, and I found an old friend/girlfriend that I dated in highschool that I never wanted to lose touch with. I emailed her through the site, and she emailed me back a couple of days ago. We exchanged Instant Message screen names, and talked for quite a bit today, catching up. While we were taking a stroll down memory lane, she told me about something I did to make her mad when we dated.

Apparently, I was at a party and there was a stripper there and apparently a lap dance was involved. I guess I told my girlfriend that, and she got mad at me. My only problem is, I SERIOUSLY don't remember this ever happening.

IF this actually did happen, I have a couple of questions:

A.) Was I really that dumb to tell my girlfriend about something like that back then?
B.) Did something traumatic happen to me during that experience to make me forget it?
C.) What guy in their right mind would ever forget a stripper and or lap dance?

Just a little confused right now, she is very sure of this too. Unfortunetly she was a good clean girl, and I was usually under the influence of something. Odds actually are more in her favor I guess.

free steak.

2005-10-27T16:45:00.000+03:00

Last night, I went to Ruth's Chris steak house for a dinner that was hosted by Abbot Laboratories. Open bar and great food, all you have to do is listen to the lecture that is given by the drug rep. Can you say sweet? Once you get a couple of drinks in you, it doesn't really matter what the guy is saying. The steak I had, was the best Filet Mignon EVER. The Grandparents, Dad, and sister are coming this weekend, and I still have so much to do. Good thing, I work better under pressure, so 1 hour before they come I will turn into an animal and the place will be spotless. I am so sleepy right now, I really cant wait to go home.

Maybe I don't want to write 100 things!

2005-10-25T02:08:00.000+03:00

1. I was born in Washington state.
2. There was a mini earthquake while my Mom was in labor, which were post quakes to the Mt. St. Helens volcanic eruption.
3. I weighed 7 pounds 11 ounces, thank you come again.
4. My family moved to California to have my loser brother.
5. We moved to Illinois when I was 5, which I stayed until I was 18.
6. I used to be shy.
7. Being shy in a small school where you're popularity is decided by the 1st grade, sucks.
8. I got beat up quite a bit.
9. I never looked forward to the first day of school, because I didn't really have any friends.
10. Got a job at a Chicago style, Italian beef place at 15..
11. Moved in with my Grandmother and started fresh at a bigger school my sophomore year in highschool.
12. People in bigger cities aren't as cruel.
13. Start going to church, and make ALOT of new friends.
14. Apparently I'm decent looking, make some lady friends.
15. Gain a lot of confidence in myself, but I don't let it go to my head.
16. Got a job at Banana Republic which was the beginning of my metrosexualness.
17. Meet a great friend named Patrick, that would do anything for me.
18. Date one of my closest girl- friends. Big mistake, I think she is a lesbian now.
19. Move back in with my Dad my Senior year.
20. HAHA all you people that used to make fun of me for being shy, who the hell do you think you are anyway?
21. Still don't make a whole bunch of friends in my new school, but who cares?
22. Meet my crazy buddy Paul, who teaches me how to get HIGH.
23. Meet my friend Erin, who is still a close friend to this day.
24. Learned about the wonders of alcohol.
25. Start dating a girl named Lauren who will end up trying to make out with my brother at a party we are at.
26. Broke up with her, and got wasted on Tequila all weekend.
27. Hung out with her bestfriend, get drunk, tell her to her face that I have just partied till she was cute, and then make out with her.
28. Called Lauren to rub it in her face.
29. Got drunk almost every weekend.
30. Got a job as a Pharmacy tech. Yummy free Vicodin.
31. Ate a lot of number 30.
32. Graduated highschool, joined the Navy.
33. Became a Hosptial Corpsman
34. Went to field medical school in California
35. Got busted for underage drinking.
36. Reevaluate my drinking, and cut down.
37. Mar 2000, moved to Japan to work at a medical clinic.
38. Meet too of my best friends, Ryan and Bryon.
39. Have an amazing 6 months of hanging out with Rye and Bry, their metrosexualality really rubs off on me even more.
40. Byron moves to California, Ryan spends another year and a half with me in Japan.
41. Rye and I become inseparable. Travel Japan together.
42. Get into the whole Rave thing.
43. Meet this incredibly sexy Japanese girl, that happens to be my travel agent.
44. She brings a friend for Ryan and we double date.
45. I know she's the one.
46.Date the girl for 1 year, and then get married.
47. I love my new Japanese family, even though we cant really communicate.
48. Feel bad for Hiromi cause she's always translating.
49. Go on our honeymoon to Thailand. What an experience.
50. Went to a sex show with my wife where I saw Thai women shoot darts out of their kooters, and hit balloons. They also can conveniently sit on a stack of quarters and make change.
51 Climb Mt. Fuji and get altitude sickness.
52. Oh yeah, during the past 3 years I was really big into lifting weights, and had a nice bod.
53. Spend a lot more time in Japan, you would have to be there to FATHOM the experience. OH yah, I joined a Rugby team and got my ass beat to shit by some semiprofessional players from Aus. That sucked.
54. Go on vacation to Australia and New Zealand.
55. Dive the great barrier reef.
56. Experienced Sydney in all its wonder.
57. Swim with tiny dolphins in New Zealand
58. Whitewater rafting down the Buller River in NZ, class 4 rapids are sweet.
59. Move to VA after 4 years and 3 months in the land of the rising sun.
60. Buy my first home.
61. Head to San Diego for the summer of 04, Hiromi went to Japan. Had a great summer hanging out with my friend Eric, and occasionally seeing the legendary Ryan and Bryon. Get certified as a Dermatology technician for the Navy.
62. Bryon starts medical school that year too. So proud.
63. Finally move back to VA and settle down. Lasts 4 months.
64. I get shipped off to Iraq.
65. Work in a Trauma Center in western Iraq.
66. Don't really want to talk about Iraq, I'm still trying to forget about the things I saw.
67. Moved back to Virgina.
68. Went and visited my wife who moved to Kentucky for a job while I was in Iraq. What a strong woman.
69. You betcha.
70. Move back to Va where I currently am at, seeing my wife every other weekend.
71. Looking back, I don't see it as a surprise that I left out that my Mother passed away sometime after 2000, I don't know the exact year because I don't ever think about that memory.
72. Now some more things about me!
73. I love Scotch, its my favorite drink, and I love to collect expensive bottles of it, to my wifes delight.
74. I have 2 American Eskimo dogs, one is half Poodle and extremely dumb.
75. My brother was addicted to Meth, and is finally clean I think. It made him just about as smart as my dog...
76. Yeah the dumb one.
77. I have a 6 year old sister Nicki that I love to death. I'm going trick or treating with her this weekend.
78. I have really excelled in the Navy, advancing in rank really quick, but after Iraq, I really need to get out.
79. I plan on going to Physician Assistant school when I get out in 3 years. Hopefully I wont have to go back to the desert.
80. I have been married for 4 years and love my wife more and more each day.
81. I'm still a flirt, but its harmless.
82. I have never cheated on my wife, and never will.
83. I am hung like a horse.
84. I'm very sarcastic.
85. I wasn't being sarcastic about being hung like a horse though.
86. I would do anything for my family or friends, except for my loser brother, he is finished.
87. I have a lot of drug users and alcoholics in my family, but I have been pretty clean for the past 4 years. I definitely don't drink to excess, which I am very proud of, considering my drunken teenage days.
88. I'm done.

Rainy but still a great weekend

2005-10-24T00:46:00.000+03:00

So I'm back home after seeing Hiromi this weekend. We stayed in Wytheville, Va. It's a little town between Roanoke and Bristol. When we got there we realized that there really wasn't much to do there, so we headed out to Big Walker Mountain, and hiked a trail through the steady rain. It was pretty cold, but the dogs were having such a good time. I now have less than a week until my Grandparents, Dad, and sister come for a visit. lots to organize and clean I tell ya. Times where I defintely miss my clean freak wife! So here are some pictures:

lets see if this works

2005-10-20T15:09:00.000+03:00

Myspace profile

Lots to do today

2005-10-20T14:50:00.000+03:00

I have to get ready for my trip to Kentucky on Friday! My dishwasher is broken too, so hopefully I can get away from work to go meet the guy at my house. I was going to take the afternoon off, but that didn't seem to work out. I may or may not be taking tomorrow off to get an early start, but we will see. I think this weekend we are just going to meet halfway in western virginia, but who knows. I get in this zone when making long trips and can drive forever. I promise to put the real post to myspace SOON. Just have to do it from home. Alright, thats about it for today!

posted pictures on myspace

2005-10-17T23:58:00.000+03:00

check it out

busy weekend

2005-10-17T15:34:00.000+03:00

This weekend I stayed in Virginia and worked on some long overdue yard projects. Exiting huh? I had to build a foundation for my shed that was rotted out. When I ripped out the old flooring I found that the previous owners really did a shitty job. So that basically took a couple of days to do. It looks alot better now, and I even built a shelf to hold additional crap in it. Lifting the 3/4" treated plywood by myself was nearly impossible, but hey it had to be done.

That was basically what my weekend consisted of, being a homeowner sucks sometimes lol.

Back to the weekly grind, hopefully I will be able to blog more this week!

B

Back to work again

2005-10-12T15:37:00.000+03:00

This weekend was pretty sweet, it was great to see Hiromi and relax in beautiful Kentucky. While it was raining all weekend in Norfolk, the weather wasn't too bad in KY, we really lucked out. I'm not a huge fan of driving 24 hours in one 3 day weekend, but it was well worth it.

My grandparents, dad, and sister are going to be coming over for Halloween weekend. I haven't seen my sister in about a year, so I'm really excited to take her trick or treatin. She is 6, and fun to hang out with. I still need to get a Halloween costume for my dog though.

I have so much shit to do around the house, but it won't stop raining. Living on the coast, you always worry about Hurricanes... Hopefully we wont have one for the next 3 years I have to be here.

Well, I better get back to work.

Surgery all day long

2005-10-06T15:01:00.000+03:00

Yesterday was hell, we had 4 surgical cases, and one was extremely involved. Today we have 5! So hopefully things will go alright. Needless to say, no blogging for Brandon today :(

Been tagged by Jaggy

2005-10-04T03:20:00.000+03:00

Haven't been able to post much these couple of days. The puppy keeps me busy.... Promise to post a picture very soon!

List five songs that you are currently loving. It doesn't matter what genre they are from, whether they have words, or even if they're any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying right now. Post these instructions, the artists, and the songs in your blog, then 'tag' other bloggers/friends to see what they're listening to.

I'm Lovin':
1. Brothers on a Hotel Bed- Death Cab for Cutie
2. The District Sleeps alone tonight- The Postal Service
3. So Contagious- Acceptance
4. Into the Mystic- Van Morrison
5. Caravan- Counting Crows cover

Puppy picture

2005-09-29T19:02:00.000+04:00

Here is a picture of Lyna Anne. I haven't picked her out yet, so one of those puppies is her. I will get her after work today. My grandma is talking about getting the other one, hopefully she will pick her up fast, so I don't have to take care of 2 puppies!

Back at work

2005-09-28T21:47:00.000+04:00

Hello all!

Back to bloggin. I started work yesterday. Well, work would entail actually doing something, so I can't really call it "work". Hiromi is going to stay in Kentucky for the next 3 months and finish out her contract job. My house seems so alone right now... I found a breeder of American Eskimos who has two females, basically I am going to go pick up a new puppy tomorrow to keep me company. I really miss my dog, who of course is staying with Hiromi! We decided to get Lilly a sister, and we are going to name it Lyna. Why Lyna? not a clue, it's one of those things where you don't argue with the wife because she's not yelling at you for spending $500 bucks on a small creature! She is kinda ticked off that we didn't pick her out together, but she will get over it. I will have to post pictures soon for sure. Well, back to "work"....

back in virginia

2005-09-26T03:45:00.000+04:00

will post more soon for sure, SOOO good to be home :)

TIRRRED

2005-08-27T14:46:00.000+04:00

I am so sleepy for some reason.

I even had my morning RED BULL.

I'm going to go check out War of the Worlds, its playing at our recreation center this afternoon. I can't stand Tom Cruise, but he is a good actor so I'll check it out.

Last night we had a couple of guys come through our trauma door that were pretty messed up. The Laboratory, started their walking blood bank, and was getting people to donate blood to take back into the O.R. I already gave too many times out here, so they wouldn't let me donate. I do have to say, that every patient who has gotten my blood has lived, so that has to be something.

I started helping out with the walking blood bank, you know, taking vitals and asking questions and what not. I started making up questions like, "Have you had sex with an animal for money or drugs since 1982." Some of those questions seem so stupid anyway. Did you know if you have lived in the UK for more than 6 months, you can't give blood because of the whole Mad Cow thing? Stupid.

Anyway, that's all I have to say today.

Decided on a vacation!

2005-08-26T09:37:00.000+04:00

In March-April of 06, we are planning a trip to Japan with a nice stop in Koh Samui, Thailand! I'm pretty excited. I have been looking for a resort, but it's hard to pick one of the many places on the Beach. Hiromi has some pretty odd demands. She wants the restaurant attached to the resort, to have champagne every morning with their buffet. I don't know how I'm going to find out if they have that. Plus I dont want to spend a shit load of money on a place. I want to spend around $75 a night and I want it to be right on the beach. I don't think I'm asking too much.

We went to Phuket, Bangkok, and Krabi a couple of years ago and had a blast, it will be cool to see how different this place will be.

I met the Kansas Comet

2005-08-18T12:59:00.000+04:00

I went to the USO show the other day, I met THEE Kansas Comet, Gayle Sayers. He wasn't very personable though. Surpringly enough, Matt Lauer was a really nice guy, and I was able to get a picture with him. I also got to meet the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General, Dick Meyers. Got a picture with the General too. I also saw the stand up routines of Colin Quinn and Jeffrey Ross. J Ross is the guy that hosts the Friar Roasts on Comedy Central. He was absolutley hilarious. I was able to get a picture with him after the show.

Oh yea, The chick from Best Damn sports show ever Leeann Tweeden was there. She was really hot. I was going to get her autograph, and have her write "You were great last night", but I was too busy getting 3 footballs, and a Chicago Bears Complete History DVD signed by Gayle Sayers. He may not have been very personable, but at least I got some sweet autographed footballs.

Home in about 20 days

2005-08-16T14:03:00.000+04:00

It's still hard to say when EXACTLY I will come home, but it looks like it will be around the 3rd of September. Pretty much only 2 more weeks of actual work, then its off to hopefully Ireland before flying into North Carolina. I am really hoping that we fly into Ireland so I can buy some rare bottles of Scotch I saw on the way over here. Scotch, Scotch, Scotch I love Scotch. Down the belly it goes...

I never really talked much about my horrible experience with the most annoying roomate in the world. I felt bad writing about him, trying to be a bigger man I guess. He was really annoying, and was the type of person that had to have everyone like him. He kissed ALOT of ass, and I would just ignore him because I didn't like him.

Apparently, me ignoring him made me a horrible person, and he would talk crap about me to my friends out here (who never liked him either, but are nicer people than I am to not admit it). So he left advanced party because his wife is active duty and is probably getting deployed in the near future.

So he's gone, and I have been in a much better mood.

Hall of Fame, Chicago Bears Running Back Gayle Sayers will be here tomorrow to sign autographs along with Matt Lauer, Colin Quinn, Some hot chick, and another Comedian. I am really excited about meeting Gayle Sayers, and will have him sign my Chicago Bears complete History DVD FO SHO.

So nothing but good things going on here in Brandon-land. Aside from the occasional bouts of death and destruction that come through our ER doors.

Come on Cedric Benson

2005-08-03T06:19:00.000+04:00

Sign all ready!

I don't know how you expect to come to Chicago and play NFL level football if you won't even go to training camp. You atheletes all make me sick to my stomach. You are already getting paid an obscene amount of money. More money than you have ever seen.

Just sign the damn papers and get my Bears to the playoff this year. I don't think I'm asking too much.

You know... Tommie Jones looked pretty good last year before he got injured.

Making you nervous?

With Mushin Muhammad, and the new studs we have at WR we may not even have need for you.

Just sign you bastard.

Love,
Brandon

Looking forward to coming home!

2005-07-31T14:47:00.000+04:00

I'm very much looking forward to leaving purgatory and coming back to the U.S.

I was thinking about taking about 10 days off in October and driving up to Chicago for a Bears game. Does anyone want to go? We should probably get our tickets as soon as possible. It would be cool to go with a big group and just get rowdy.

In October we can see them crush the Minnesota Vikings or the Baltimore Ravens, either game would be cool to go too. All I know, is that I will most definetly not be the designated driver. I wish Metra would go all the way to Wauconda.

Let me know if you want to go and we will start planning. We could take the train, or we could go early and tailgate.

War protestors piss me off

2005-07-26T18:19:00.000+04:00

Regardless of your political views, you have got to agree with me on this issue!

Recently, this soldier that lived in my building was killed by a roadside explosive device. She was an Army medic that was driving over to some Marines who were hit by another Improvised Explosive Device. The device that hit her was set up to hit secondary vehicles after the first IED went off. The soldier died instantly, and my friend who was driving the Ambulance was seriously wounded. I only talked with the soldier a half dozen times, but she was a real sweetheart and she is truly missed.

Some other people that are with her Nebraska National Guard unit told me that there were war protesters AT HER FUNERAL!!

You may not agree with the War in Iraq, but that gives NOBODY the right to disrespect the family of a soldier during their time of grieving. I am disgusted that people could stoop this low.

Most people who disagree with the War, don't have a clue what's actually going on anyway. I have seen so many overjoyed Iraqis who talk about the differences in life today vs. Sadam's regime.

The majority of fighters that are coming over here are foreign fighters that have lots of money to shell around. The insurgents that are Iraqi, are mainly being paid big bucks by the foreign fighters to plant bombs, and challenge the U.S. With little money being made by traditional ways, this isn't hard to understand.

Regardless of your view on the War, you have to agree that protesting at a funeral of an American soldier is wrong. I believe in the Constitution with all it's power, but this is just sadistic and disheartening.

Back to basics.

2005-07-22T14:08:00.000+04:00

I finally had my FMF board yesterday, and I crushed it. I did very well, and should get my pin within the next week or 2. It feels strange to have that burden lifted off my chest. I still think about questions in my head, and then get disapointed because I shouldn't be thinking about it anymore.

I worked last night, but was too tired to really accomplish anything. It's nice being a little higher in rank, and getting some privledges. I am not really on the schedule, so I'm fortunate to not have to work very many night shifts.

Looks like I will be back sometime in early September. I am very much looking forward to getting back to the states and starting my life again. I was only in the states for 4 months before getting pulled to Iraq, hopefully I will be able to adjust without any problems.

Figured out how to get music from other people's IPODs so I have been busy with that. I am a pirate.

Busy B

2005-07-07T19:23:00.000+04:00

On The IPOD

"Snowbirds and Townies"
Further Seems Forever
The Moon is down

Hello to everyone in blogland.

I have been busy for the last couple of days studying for this thing

It's a special pin that I get to wear on my uniform for the rest of the time I am in the military. I plan on getting out in 3 years, so there really isn't a point for me to get it. Unfortunetly, I am incapable of giving less than 110% at anything I do. I will have my final oral board next Wednesday which can last up to 4 hours. Basically a bunch of people ask you questions, and you have to know your stuff. I will let you all know how I did. Until then, I probably won't be posting much! I'll be around though.

Independence Day

2005-07-04T18:32:00.000+04:00

On the IPOD

“Breakdown”
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Greatest Hits

Independence Day

Independence Day has always been a special holiday for me, and I was just thinking back at some of my most memorable 4th of July’s and what the holiday means to me. Being in the military, Independence Day is one of those holidays that the armed services take pretty seriously. This is actually the first time in my 6 years of being in the Navy, that I haven’t had a 96 hour liberty, or 4 days off for the mathematically challenged. Probably has something to do with me being in a war zone, yeah that’s definitely it.

As a kid, most of my Independence Day’s were at the lake where I lived. We would normally have some sort of illegal fireworks, and the kids would normally engaged in dangerous activities such as bottle rocket wars, or trying to hit each other with Roman Candles. Sometimes we would catch fish, and then blow them up with Black Cats. The good old days, when you’re biggest worry was if the mosquitoes were bad this year. A spray down with the can of OFF normally did the trick.

Some of my most vivid memories come from our neighbor Bob, who would build an Ether Bomb almost every year. He would use a piece of Styrofoam as a raft and tape a can of Brake Fluid to it. Paddling his canoe out as far as he deemed necessary, he would attach a couple of M-80’s tied to a cigarette fuse. The cigarette would be lit, and let to slowly burn, enough time for Bob to paddle his canoe back to shore. Sometimes we would shoot bottle rockets at him, probably not the brightest idea, but equally hilarious. Standing out in front of our house in complete darkness we would wait for the explosion. When you least expected it, a huge bang would erupt with a fireball the size of a kitchen. Good times.

In 1999 I was in boot camp for the 4th of July, I was only in boot camp for a week, and already had 4 days off. Nothing too memorable there, I think I have effectively pushed those memories into the box in my head marked “do not open”.

In 2000, I was stationed in Japan with two of my now closest friends, Bryon and Ryan. We all had 4 days off, and it was somebody’s bright idea to ride our bikes through mountainous territory to a campsite deep in the country of Japan. It was only about a 8-10 mile trek, but it was mostly up hill. It wasn’t easy, but we made it and got an air conditioned cabin near a river. I remember Ryan and I were jumping off rocks into the river, and Bryon wouldn’t do it. We kept making fun of him, but nothing would make him do it. We followed this fun up by playing drinking games in our cabin with disgusting lemon Chu Hi’s, and Asahi SUPER DRY Beer. I have most of it on tape somewhere. The summer of 2000, was one of my most memorable since I shared it with two amazing friends. We were inseparable, and still keep in very good touch despite being many miles apart.

Last year, I spent my 4th of July weekend in Northern California at Ryan’s place. We didn’t do much for the 4th, but we caught up on old times. We went surfing at the beach in San Luis Obispo, which was quite an experience to say the least.

This year, I spend the 4th of July serving my country in hopefully one of our Country’s great accomplishments to Freedom and Independence. Time will only reveal exactly what this conflict will be described in our history books, but I’m hoping that it will disclose a positive outcome.

America was repressed and sick of being bullied by a tyrannical monarchy, and on that infamous day written in our history books, brave American’s stood up and declared their Independence. 229 years later, we are assisting another country in doing the same. 229 years later we are the most powerful country, stretching from sea to shining sea, through many great men before us. I am certain our founding Fathers did not dream America to be in the shape it is now. Thomas Jefferson was one of our first leaders with a vision to what America would become. If he was alive today, I like to think he would be proud of what we have become.

Independence Day was created to remember the day our fore fathers took a stand for freedom and the rights of its fellow citizens. Hopefully the country of Iraq will someday have a similar day. As for me, I will continue to hold this day in a different light. 3 countries later, this day has become a day of remembrance to what is truly important in my life, my family, friends, and the memories that shape our existence.

Spiritual Battleground

2005-07-03T11:01:00.000+04:00

On the IPOD

“Stars”
HUM
You’d Prefer an Astronaut

On the IPOD

“Stars”
HUM
You’d Prefer an Astronaut

Spiritual Battleground

This place is a Spiritual Battleground. What is a Spiritual Battleground you may ask? It’s hard to put into words, but it basically describes the place in which I am at War battling against what I know is right and what I am actually doing.

I consider myself a Christian and have for many years. Growing up, religion was not pushed on me by any means. My parents believed that my brother and I would find our own way when the time was right. I can honestly say I was “born again” during my sophomore year in high school. I moved in with my Grandmother, and she heard from a colleague about a good youth group at a nearby church, where I could make friends while I made my new start. I did exactly that, and some of my fondest memories are shared with the people I met from church.

Church for me was a safe haven, the people within the walls of my church were good people, and I never felt more comfortable anywhere else. The church I attended was by far the biggest church in our area drawing thousands of visitors each week for any one of their numerous services. It was so easy to meet new people, and my self esteem grew by bounds during my stay. I grew a reputation for being quite a flirt, and was labeled as having “C.F.D” or Chronic Flirting Disorder by one of my friends. I always just considered myself an outgoing guy.

Outside of the church walls around friends that were not Christians, is where my first Spiritual Battleground ensued. It seemed when I was separated by the community and fellowship of other Christians I was easily persuaded to be somebody entirely different. Many people find this to be a flaw in the Christian faith. My wife feels uncomfortable about a religion where forgiveness is only a conversation away from you and God. She feels that people can be very hypocritical if all they have to do is confess their sins, and made new. I am not proud of some of the things I have done in my life, but I think that everyone has regrets in one form or another. I eventually learned that character is truly defined by who you are when nobody is looking.

I have been attending church here in Iraq, and it feels great to be surrounded by other Christians again, and to feel that closeness with God as I once did before. Even with the time I have devoted to God out here, I still feel disconnected because of the conditions I am in. This place really is a Spiritual Battleground and I often feel distracted by the people and things that make me angry or negative. There are people that I work with, that I just cannot stand and it’s hard to really push those things aside when you know it’s the right thing to do. When you are deployed, you are around the same people 24-7 for at least 6 months straight. You’re away from your family, and the people around you become your surrogate family in a sense.

When you don’t like somebody, what is the best way to deal with that person? Should you ignore them? Should you become a phony person, and humor them? Should you beat the crap out of them? I’m sure everyone has the “right” answer to these questions, but I have tried most of them (haven’t had to kick any heads in yet) and no matter what I do, I feel horrible because I can’t forgive them for what I perceive as their “character flaws”. As a Christian I should forgive anybody who is unjust or pisses me off. I know what I need to do, but I keep feeling like I’m fighting a separate war within the larger one.

Obviously, stuff I need to work on within myself, but see little relief until I’m back in the arms of my family and friends. At least I know some of my character flaws, unlike some of the jack asses I work with.

Rewarding the Irresponsible- Why YOU should vote Republican.

2005-06-27T09:02:00.000+04:00

On The IPOD

Van Morrison
“Caravan”
Moondance

I am a Conservative, by almost every sense of the word. My opinions on some issues are not Conservative, but I still consider myself very Right Wing, and very Republican. Over the weekend I was informed about a situation in my family that really reminded me why I am in fact a Republican and detest Liberals.

A family member of mine is irresponsible and has gone about life making one bad decision after another. The kid started smoking at 12, the constant drinking and drugs in high school. A couple of minor brushes with the law follow this erratic behavior, and by the age of 19 he owes a fine that if he doesn’t pay he will go to jail.

Everyone deserves a second chance. I truly believe that family should stick together and help each other when times are rough. I offered to pay his fines if he would join the military and pay me back after basic training. I told him about the fresh start that he would have, where he could truly start over and try and get his life on track. Navy Basic Training taught him discipline and pushed him to limits that he thought he couldn’t handle. Upon graduation, he appeared to have changed quite a bit. He had to quit smoking in boot camp for 2 months, but I wasn’t surprised when he lit right back up after graduation.

The bad decisions didn’t start then, and they surely didn’t end. Before Basic Training, he had the choice to choose many different jobs, many that would offer very good training and possibilities in the civilian sector. He opted against any of these occupations, and chose to be a cook, simply because it offered a $5,000 bonus for taking the job. I would be hesitant to take any job that offered an incentive like that. You think he would wonder why they needed to pay people to come into the field.

He was the valedictorian of his class in cook school, and was offered the pick of any order that he wanted. I talked to him on the phone, and advised him to take the orders to Italy, but he ignores me and takes a ship in San Diego. Reasons completely unknown, but I really mark this decision as the beginning of his demise.

Believe it or not, you don’t have to be too bright to be a Chef on a ship. Many of the people that come into the military and speak very little English, or are uneducated are welcomed into the culinary field with open arms. You can argue the case that there is a direct correlation between the uneducated and people with less than savory characters. Imagine being surrounded by people who have a similar background of drinking, drugs, and other illegal activity. It doesn’t take a genius to see this as a dangerous combination.

So discipline is soon out the window, and the wild partying begins. Many phone calls would be answered drunk, and almost every phone call would be accompanied with disappointment in one form or another.

Needing a form of transportation, he heads to a nearby car dealership that offers a great deal for people with less than perfect credit! $7,000 dollars later, he is driving a car with an enormous interest rate that he can’t even afford. He starts to date a girl in Orange County that he really starts to like. She has a child from a previous boyfriend, but is a very good girl and also a devout Mormon. She starts talking about marriage, and I start to get the opinion that she’s really looking for a father for her baby. Her parent’s start pushing the Mormon faith, and he finally breaks things off, simply because the girl won’t “put out”.

I was a little freaked out when I started hearing marriage talk, but wish now that I would have encouraged him. She was a good girl, and likely could have helped lead him in a better direction. The next girl that he would meet would exceed his expectations on his “putting out” requirement, and did exactly that in her car where they met at a bar in Tijuana.

This girl would also introduce him to a drug called “Crystal Meth”, which would spiral them in a completely different direction of irresponsibility and stupidity. While driving his car with a burned out headlight on base, he was cited for having an open container of alcohol in his trunk. This of course was not his fault. News traveled fast to the ship, and it wasn’t long until they requested a urine sample to see what else he was meddling in.

When the urine sample tested positive for methamphetamines, he was informed that he would be charged under the Navy’s Zero Tolerance drug program. He quickly fled to his girlfriend’s house where he continued to use drugs with his girlfriend and her wonderful drug addict Mother. The family hadn’t heard from him for a good few months, when we emailed the ship inquiring about his whereabouts. They let us know that he had fled his charges and was currently also charged with being Unauthorized Absence and missing their scheduled deployment.

When I arrived in San Diego for school last summer, I was able to track him down and put both him and his now pregnant girlfriend on a bus back to stay with family in Illinois. They continued to use drugs even while she was pregnant, and didn’t stop until at least her 2nd Trimester. Things didn’t work out in Illinois and it wasn’t long until he was in trouble with the law again, and back in California with a very pregnant girlfriend. The baby was born in December, and they were living day to day with the drug addict Mother. It took them until early May to finally move back East with another family member who had their best interest in mind.

Things have stabilized since their move, and they are apparently off the drugs. They are living off our family member, and being supported by welfare. She got a job working as a car hop at Sonics, while he got a job as a Chef at a hotel. While on the phone last night, I was informed that she is 2 or 3 months pregnant AGAIN. Last time she did drugs, last month, still continuing to smoke cigarettes, talk about love for your unborn child.

My question is, why do they deserve to be supported by our Government? The continual cycle of bad decisions and irresponsible behavior coupled with the denial of support and advice by wiser people, does not deserve a penny in my eyes. What have they done to deserve a handout? While I do believe that welfare should be around for certain situations, I do not believe that these 2 people deserve a single cent. Capitalism is an essential fundamental in the growth of our country, and a tool used to motivate people to better their life. If you want to get ahead, you work as hard as you can, to make your dreams come true. Sacrifices are not an inconvenience, but a necessity. Relying on the government for handouts, and expecting them, as these two very well do, KILLS Capitalism.

When it’s family, it hits home a little bit more. If you agree with me in this situation, vote Republican and keep those welfare hungry wolves out of office.

Refuge rabbit

2005-06-25T20:19:00.000+04:00

On The Ipod

"Stay Gone"
On A Wire

Today while I was at work, a friend of mine came across a refuge rabbit. She was found very scared, and looked as if she was separated from her mother. We are not allowed to keep pets here, so we asked the Vet to check her out. She told us to let her go, or she could take care of her "humanely". I thought Vets were supposed to help the animals. Guess not. Here are some pictures of the refuge.

Disaster circumvented

2005-06-24T08:49:00.000+04:00

ON THE IPOD

"We Will Become Silhouettes"
The Postal Service

I was able to get about 900 songs from somebody at work! Now I have a really good classic rock collection, and some cool old skool nineties alternative rock. My friend Patrick is going to send a bunch of good stuff from his collection.

I think we are doing a mass casulty drill right now. I'm at the front, so I dont think i have to really do anything! Hopefully... We will certaintly see. I'm going to add more to this later.

11:45- I definetly got pulled for that mass casulty drill haha. It was fun though, the doc let me intubate a patient, and walked me through the entire process. I'm hoping to be able to intubate a few patients before I leave here. I love medicine.

Got a cool picture from my friend, Eric He is on a ship floating around Australia right now. Stopping into ports like Brisbane and Cairnes has got to be horrible. Poor guy.

B

Disaster!!

2005-06-22T17:34:00.000+04:00

On the IPOD

"Time and Time Again"
Counting Crows
August and Everything After

I tried to update my IPOD on my laptop, and my whole music collection was replaced with the smaller 400 song collection I have on my laptop! Over 1000 songs gone! I have them backed up on my computer at home, but that's 2 month's away :( I still have some very good music on here, and I was able to run to the store and get The Postal Service "Give Up", my "safety blanket" music. I'm still missing so many essential songs though! Whiskeytown's "Pneumonia", All of my Coldplay, Ben Folds, Ryan Adams.

I just feel so stupid, I am pretty bright when it comes to computers, I should have known better. To make myself feel better, I also bought the new solo album by Rob Thomas, and the new cd by The Starting Line.

Oh shit, my Modest Mouse collection is gone too.

No rest for the weary

2005-06-22T09:40:00.000+04:00

On the IPOD

"Could I Be You"
Mathbox 20
More Than You Think You Are

Well by the abundance of comments on my blog, I am assuming nobody is even reading my ramblings. That's okay though, I still have fun with it.

Back at work for another 24 hour duty! I sure wish I could get paid by the hour. Working all the time, has really made the time go by faster. Hard to believe I have been in Iraq for 4 months. Time flys when your having fun? Maybe not.

We have been out of water for 2 straight days now. Looks like the bad guys blew up the water lines again. The fighters out here are the biggest cowards, they hardly ever come close to do any real fighting. Placing mines, and homemade bombs on the side of the road is not my idea of a worthy advesary.

I promise to post more pictures soon of this wonderful place. Lately its been about 115 degress on average. Hell is definetly hot.

On a brighter note, I was just nominated for Senior Sailor of the Quarter. Not sure exactly what I did, but apparently I'm hot shit. Apparently I will go up against some other people around Iraq, and some higher up people will vote on it. Not sure what I get if I win, probably a pat on the back and a better evaluation.

Watched White Noise last night, this whole E.V.P thing has gotten me pretty intrigued. I'm thinking about trying to talk to my dead mother sometime. I'll let you know how that works out.

Good ol Saddam

2005-06-20T19:31:00.000+04:00

Apparently a couple of Saddam's guards are speaking out and giving details on his imprisonment. The whole article is pretty funny.

Saddam's advice on finding a good woman?

O'Shea said when he told him he was not married, Saddam started telling me what to do.He was like, you gotta find a good woman. Not too smart, not too dumb. Not too old, not too young. One that can cook and clean.

Then he smiled, made what O?Shea interpreted as a "spanking" gesture, laughed and went back to washing his clothes in the sink.

You heard it guys! If you are looking for a good woman, she should be naive, about middle age, and a great cook!

Apparently he has Obsessive Compulsive Disorder too, and still thinks he is the President of Iraq.

The majority of the article touched on his fondness for Doritos, being able to eat a family sized bag in 10 minutes.

What a character, can you say reality show? With all the crap on T.V. I would really sit down and watch Saddam's antics.

At least he has the right idea about women.

What a day

2005-06-18T01:27:00.000+04:00

It's just been one of those days... Here is a recap:

7:45 a.m.- Iraqi Detainee is brought into the E.R. with a broken arm, didn't have to do much with him, but he was a little freaky looking all blind folded and wearing a man dress.

12:00 p.m.- nice Indian fellow comes in with a kidney stone, easy to treat- he was out the door in about an hour with good pain meds.

2:00 p.m.- moved a couple of Iraqi children that were injured in a blast from one helicopter to another. It was so hard to see injured kids when you are so used to seeing adults all the time. It choked me up a little bit, but I have been dealing with it okay. I later was told that the kids belonged to an insurgent that was shooting at the good guys. Who knows if this is true or not.

11:30 p.m.- Recieved casulties in the E.R. from a mine blast. Everyone was alright, and we were able to stabalize everyone that was injured. I was able to do some sweet internal sutures on a big laceration to a guys cheek. I really like the docs we work with, they are all so great about teaching new things.

The rest of the night I basically got about 3 hours of sleep- then worked till 11 the next day. Now its almost midnight here, and I'm back for another 12 hour shift.

Sorry I had to be so vague about everything, not really sure if anything needs to be kept hush hush.

ABANDONED Iraqi jet

Working my tail off

2005-06-13T20:35:00.000+04:00

So the military in it's grand infinite wisdom decides to downsize and send a bunch of my comrades home. Doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, but thats probaly because I'm stuck here everyday instead of getting some time off. Sure I was spoiled for the first 4 months, working every other day, and hardly even staying the night at the hospital, but come on, I'm worth it!

over the past week I have worked a little over 90 hours. Pretty insane huh? Sure, alot of the time when I am at work I'm not really doing anything, but thats not the point! To manage stress, you need to get away from the things that cause you stress, its really that simple.

Everytime I start feeling sorry for myself and thinking that I am overworked, I think about the people on the front lines that don't get any time off at all. I stop feeling sorry for myself for about 10 seconds, and then argue that if you manage your resources and personnel correctly, theres no reason for anyone to be overworked! When one department has 3 days off in a row, and another is working everyday it would make sense to me to move personnel around so everyone gets some time off! Unfortunetly, I don't get paid to make those decisions.

I got about 12 hours off today to sleep, relax, and unwind. It was great. I put my IPOD on shuffle, played a little NCAA football on the Xbox, and just chilled for a couple hours. The rest of the time I was pretty much sleeping.

Here is a picture of the mosque on base. I guess some Muslims still use it, but it looks like a dump to me. You would think they would paint it or restore it since its a holy building.

Sandstorms

2005-06-12T10:05:00.000+04:00

We have had three hellish sandstorms since arriving in February. They are amazing, but cause so much destruction that they are feared by all. As you can see from the pictures they sweep in as a visable wall, slowly taking over everything in its path as its travels in upwards of 60 mph. If you are caught in a sandstorm, you better have goggles on, the sand is a very fine particulate and it is impossible to see more than a few feet in front of you. It can be light as day, but when the storm hits it will appear dark as night.

The first 2 storms were during the day and most people had a chance to find shelter. As you can see from the pictures it is very obvious when a sandstorm is going to hit. It is so huge that you can see it coming from a great distance, and you can pretty much gauge how long you have to find shelter. Last week a sandstorm hit at night, and nobody knew that it was coming. A couple of people I work with got caught in it, and had quite a time getting back to the barracks. They are actually pretty lucky, there are numerous things that could have gone wrong.

The cleanup afterwards is such a pain in the ass. The sand gets in EVERYTHING, and lingers for a good week afterewards blowing around and covering what you have already cleaned.

No wonder the Iraqi's are so pissed off. If I had to live here for more than 6 months I would probably be a radical American hating extremist as well. Okay, maybe not.

Brandon in Iraq

2005-06-10T17:54:00.000+04:00

Hey there

It's been almost 9 months since my last post, I guess you can say I have been pretty busy. 4 months in Virginia went pretty well, then I got the wonderful news that I would be going on an extended vacation right outside of Europe in the amazing country that is Iraq. So I have been over here for 4 months now, and finally think about Blogging. Genius.

Life here isn't too bad, the food is pretty good and they just opened up Burger King, Pizza Hut, and a coffee joint. I work alot, but still get enough down time that I can't complain much. I have it pretty sweet compared to the real heroes that are on the front line and living in tents. I live in a hardened shelter that protects me from the mortar and rocket attacks. I have a T.V, and Xbox, and a Mini-Fridge. I have it made.

I have also seen things I will never EVER forget. As a Corpsman working in the Emergency Room, I have gained experience that can only be gained by seeing the unforgetable. I will forever be changed by my experiences, just not sure exactly how I have changed yet. If that makes sense...

I should be home sometime in early September, making it a one year anniversary living in Virginia, with only 4 months of it actually being there!

I will definetly post some pictures soon. Hiromi is sending me my laptop so I will need that to hook up some pics.

To all of my wonderful friends who have supported me during this time in my life. I thank you. You are all amazing, and I wouldn't change you for the world.

B

Hey there

2004-10-14T16:54:00.000+03:00

I am going to start posting on here again in the near future. Things have been pretty busy, I feel rather domesticated living in the new house and having to do all the cleaning and yard work and what not. Someday I will have to hire someone to do it, or just make babies and have them do all the work. I did get a new puppy her name is Lilly and she likes to crap in the house. I will post pictures soon. Gotta get back to work ;)

Back in Va

2004-09-14T07:39:00.000+04:00

Hey there all,

Back in Virginia after a long ass drive from San Diego. House looks great, all my shit comes tomorrow. Can't wait. Went to the grand canyon, Albuquerque, and Tennesee on my way home. Good stuff, I will post some pictures in the near future. Also had a killer weekend with Minerva Char and Bryon. Bryon got attacked by his cat and we ended up spending most of the night looking for a 24 hour pharmacy so he can get some antibiotics. Funny shit. I will post pictures from that weekend soon too. First week of fantasy football went well. I won.

Bee

Rollerblading

2004-09-02T06:22:00.000+04:00

Hey there all.

I haven't posted in a few days, Haven't really had the time I guess. Just getting ready for what is hopefully going to be the greatest weekend of my 3 months in California. Im very excited that Minerva and Char are coming down, and equally excited to see my bestfriend one last time. I have been dreading this road trip for awhile now. Driving 650 miles a day cross country is not normally my idea of fun. We are going to stop at the Grand Canyon though, which I really want Hiromi to experience. I went a long time ago and remember it was amazing. Maybe I can leave Hiromi in a garbage can like in Joe Dirt. I crack myself up. So anyway, basically my posts have slowly dwindled into utter garbage. I really don't have a lot of material to work with. I have also gotten very used to the freaks who inhabit Cali, so what can I really say? I'm sure the road trip will bring about some interesting stories that I can amuse you with. I will have my digital camera back, so I will likely be able to make things more interesting. I'm really looking forward to rollerblading again, its been a very long time but I'm sure I am still amazing at it.

In other news. Reading a good book. Its called The Rule of Four. If your dumb as a rock you might not want to pick it up. One of those books that takes someone with a keen intellect to truly appreciate.

Really enjoying the new Something Corporate CD. I don't know how new it is, but its new to me. My plan to take up Yoga failed miserably. I planned on going a whole bunch of times while I was here, and I only went the one time.

If Char makes us go to Disneyland, I am going to be very disappointed. I hate kids that are not related to someone I know or related to me. I can just imagine the little shits running into me as I am trying to walk, or hearing them cry over stupid shit. I don't remember crying as a kid over not getting ice cream. If I couldn't get ice cream then end of story. I can't wait to have my own kids, so I can raise them to be perfect like myself.

My work here is done.

Before I left for Cali........

2004-08-30T07:25:00.000+04:00

Cheesecake Factory with some of my friends back home in Illinois. Fun night.

I didn't do much this weekend. Just kinda chilled and napped. Looking forward to next weekend hanging with Swervin, Char, and of course my best buddy Bryon. Drove down to Imperial Beach and saw a bunch of crazies walking around. Saw Hero last night. If you like reading subtitles while listening to Chinese for 2 hours then you will love this movie. Gave me a headache. Not a big fan of movies that are 100% composed of special effects. I know the movie took place hundreds of years ago, but I'm pretty sure they couldn't walk on water and jump from tree to tree when they would Kung Fu each other. Couple more days of work. One more week until I see my ladies, and then the Queen comes home to the King next Monday. I was telling Hiromi about how the gay's in Hillcrest play gay volleyball in the gay park. She wants to walk and see the "gays". I thought that was kinda cute, so basically we are going to the gay zoo, to see the gay little monkeys.

Pure boredom

2004-08-29T05:10:00.000+04:00

I really cannot stress how much I can't wait to pull myself away from this computer and retain what resemblance of a life I once had. I thought being in San Diego for the summer would rock my socks off, but it really isn't all that. I miss my wifey, and it gets boring doing the same shit over and over again. I will see her on the 6th though, which is probably why I am so damn ancy lately. That or the constant supply of starbucks down the street.... I miss my cd's and mp3's on my home computer. Hmm it may be sad, but I dont really have anything else to write.

Happy Birthday Minerva

2004-08-27T04:10:00.000+04:00

Minerva and Char are going to visit me in celebration of Minerva's birthday. All I can say is Brandon samich.

Just as they will be leaving, my beautiful wife will be flying in. I haven't seen her for 3 months, so I am pretty excited about that one.

political Brandon

2004-08-26T05:59:00.000+04:00

Hey there all.

When I say all, I am pretending that there are more people then just Gina reading. Of course I wouldn't be able to tell form the lack of comments.... Not complaining though.

John Kerry is a ass clown. He may be ten times more intelligent than our current President, but does that really matter? President Bush knows people. He even probably knows people that know people. I would much rather have a President that has a bunch of friends, than a uptight stiff who can't keep his wife in check. That crazy rich girl was a registered republican when she was married to her first husband, then when she gets hitched with Johnny Boy she changes her mind? I'm sorry but she sounds like a Capital Hill groupie to me.

John Kerry is trying to show everyone that he is a Vietnam war hero. Which is pretty ironic since he only served 4 months compared to the 12 months most other swift boat captains served. In fact, most of the people that he served with are coming out against him. He is losing the veteran vote that he wants so bad, and I think it may have alot to do with accusing all the Vietnam vets of war crimes as soon as he got back from the war front. What a hypocrite. This guy is trying to make people think that he is going to be a great leader.

You can make your case for why Bush is an ass clown as well, but when it comes down to it, being a Republican just makes more sense. Unless you like giving all your money to poor people so they can buy crack. I am all for helping the more unfortunate people, but I like to do it on my own terms.
I dislike Bush less than I dislike Kerry. The lesser of two evils you can say.

More pictures from last weekend

Testing the camera

Bryon stealing oranges from the neigbors

Bryon and Brandon in the morning

Bryon Ryan and the Legend himself

2004-08-24T23:35:00.000+04:00

Hey there all as promised in my last post here are pictures from the weekend.

Bryon Ryan and The Legend himself

Work is work. I really don't do anything for work right now. I am just "learning". Here's the thing.... Once I learn how to do something, It doesn't take long before I master it. I'm working with the Doc today and we have a patient that needs a Basal Cell Carcinoma shaved off. Simple procedure, VERY SIMPLE. The moron in the OR complains about not having enough technicians to do the procedure. There is a room open however. Easy fix, I'll assist with the surgery right? No. Dumb ass seems to think that I can't handle this procedure. Of course she didn't come out and say that. So what does she do when she finally pages us? She sends in one of my classmates to do it.Idiot. She has this gigantic mole on the side of her head. My mouth waters whenever I look at it, cause I want to cut it off. I just can't stand being smarter and more competent then everyone around me. It really does suck.

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I have a theory on why so many people hate Americans. I have come to this theory through experience in traveling to other countries, living abroad in Japan for over 4 years, and being a very observant monkey. Americans are rude. Big surprise I know! Seriously, I cannot stand living here. I know I'm going to get some hardcore patriotic comments on this one. Comments from people who enjoy all the benefits of being an American, and have not sacrificed anything for it. I have served my country for the past 5 years and I'm telling you that there is a damn good reason why people hate Americans.

Customer Service is huge to me, when I walk into a place of business I expect to be taken care of. The thing I love about America is capitalism. Anyone can rise from nothing and become something in this Country. Of course lots of people will argue that, "It's just not that easy". No shit. If it was easy, then we wouldn't have any poverty. The point is. .IT CAN BE DONE, IT HAS BEEN DONE, AND IM SICK OF HEARING EXCUSES. Tangent.

Back to Customer Service. I walk into NAPA auto parts yesterday to order an air filter for my car. I see lots of people working in the back, and the two people working in the front are assisting other customers. That was okay for the first 5 minutes. I stood there for 30 minutes, not saying a word, waiting in line for my turn. The employees would look at me, but not once did they say. "Sorry about the wait, I'll be with you as soon as I can." They said nothing.

I know what your thinking... Why didn't I say anything? Here is the thing. I refuse to be the "Ugly American" We all know that when I say ugly, I'm not talking about my appearance.(COME ON NOW) I'm talking Ugly in the sense of actions. I stood there as an experiment to see how long it would take for someone to do their job, and they failed miserably. After I couldn't take it anymore, I walked out and drove home. I figure I will just order the part online, pay a couple extra dollars for delivery.... well worth the fact that I don't have to talk to Fred the 60+ year old Napa Auto employee with a mullet.

On a daily basis I come across people that I want to slap upside the head. Why can't people simply follow Capitalism the way it is supposed to be designed. Benjamin Franklin came from a very poor family, but worked his ass off until he was won of the most richest men of his time. Even when he worked for someone else's printing press, he basically ran the shop and made the man a great deal of money. He worked his ass off for someone else, because he knew that was the key to success. Even if you hate your job, it is still necessary to provide good Customer Service if that is what your job entails.

Example. In Japan.... You can go to any establishment and be treated with excellent customer service. Customer service is a big deal in Japan, and they have a booming business because of it. You could walk into a sleazy buy me drinky club and still get treated with respect. It's amazing. I have talked to so many people from different countries, and I always hear the same thing. American's are rude. I really wish that Americans didn't have such a stereotype, but it's hard when you notice it everyday.

I just want to go to a store and not feel pissed off before leaving it. Here's the thing about me though. I may be venting right now, but I swear to you that even when I am getting treated like shit, I keep my cool and treat them in a professional manner. This is unless they go too far, then I unleash my wrath on them. It's gotten so bad, that it is pointless to even ask for a Manager anymore. Most of the Managers you will even speak with are even bigger pieces of shit.

Okay I'M done ranting.

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No more potential

2004-08-23T23:03:00.000+04:00

Howdy all.

If you refer to my last post, you noticed that I rambled on about my two buddies Ryan and Bryon. Potentially this past weekend was to be great, as long as Ryan the flake came through. Rye and I were to meet Bry in Pamona at 1 in the afternoon. I am driving the 2 hour drive, when at 12:15 I get a call from Ryan. Bastard lives 4-5 hours away and he hasn't left yet. Was I surprised? NO. Was I pissed off? Not really. I arrive at Bryon's house at 12:50 because I am a reliable friend who is always on time. We contemplate taking bets on if the bastard is going to come or not. Not really wanting to lose my money, I decide against it.

Ryan shows up at around 6:00. He is lost 3 miles down the road in San Dimas. San Dimas High School Football rules! Anyway. We pick his ass up, and decide that we are going to go to one of Bryon's friends birthday dinner at 7. Ryan is a vegetarian. He doesn't even eat things that are made with eggs. Bryon and I are avid carnivores who will eat anything smaller than us. Where do we go for dinner? Outback. Hilarious. With the smell of sweet cooked animal in the air, Ryan is obviously perturbed. He starts arguing with mega bitch waitress about his salad. I don't know what her problem was, my guess she needs to get it in the butt. Anyway. Out of respect to Ryan I get a dish with Chicken. I figure its less offensive then cow. Bryon gets a steak salad. Bitchy waitress takes a couple hours to do just about anything so we head out to Dave and Busters for more drinks at around 10ish.

Dave and Busters are assholes about I.D. You cant get into the place without an I.D. which doesnt even make sense since they ask you for it at the bar again. Needless to say, one girl we were with forgot her's so her and her boyfriend didn't get to go. Assholes.

We continue to get our drink on and play stupid games. We play this virtual reality battletech game. Pretty sick.

Our pool table finally comes up. We decide to play girls against guys using slop. Big mistake. Those girls were so damn lucky, we lost the first 2 games pretty fast. One of the cocky girls we were with decided that it would be a good idea to start playing for something. Ryan offers to take off all his clothes and run naked. Not a surprise. We all come to the conclusion that there will be some clothes coming off, details to be hashed out later.

Now guys don't need alot of motivation when it comes to competition. You throw some boobies into any equation, and a guy becomes 10 times better at anything. We destroy the girls in 2 games. They do not live up to their bargain. Guess they werent very slutty. Damn.

We came home at around 3:30am and went to bed a little bit after that. Just like old times with 2 of my closest friends.

Seriously, I can go on forever but I'm guessing that only 2 or 3 people have even read this much. I will keep Sunday short. Went and saw "Without a Paddle", ATE at the star of India. Chilled with Ryan until he left this morning. Good times, Good friends. I'm glad everything turned out alright.

Potential great weekend....

2004-08-21T02:15:00.000+04:00

This weekend has the potential of being a great one. If all goes to plan, my buddy Ryan will drive his ass to San Diego where we will likely destroy my one month of sobriety. Saturday we will drive to Pamona, where Bryon is going to Med school. I met Bryon and Ryan in Japan in 2000, and we all became really close friends. Being away from friends and family in a far away land is not easy, but these two cats made up for it. We haven't all hung out together since, shit... November 2000. I say that this weekend has "potential" because Ryan is the biggest flake. He is sporadic to say the least, but no matter how many times the guy lets you down, you can't help but love the guy. He is a free spirit who has been abducted by aliens numerous times. He is actually one of the choosen one's who has a special relationship with the little green men. I know what your thinking.... The guy is a nut! All I can say is your probably right, but I have no reason not to believe him. Maybe he will put in a good word for me when the little bastards take over.

I'm off to go search for a used Dashboard Confesional CD. I forgot to pack it from Virginia, and I really want to listen to it. I wish I knew some people out here that listened to good music, I could just burn it. Suck fest. I have all my old DC, but I have been craving for the new Cd for quite some time now. Oh yeah, if you really want to listen to an incrediable album, check out Further Seems Forever- The Moon is Down. This cd was when Chris Carabba of Dashboard was the lead singer and the band actualy sounded good. Maybe the new FTF will be good, somehow I doubt it. Saves The Day- Stay what you are, rocks too. I'm out.

Gayest place on earth

2004-08-20T00:18:00.000+04:00

Here in San Diego, I live near a small community called Hillcrest , a little place that I like to call the gayest place on earth. It is a large area of the city composed of both rural areas and a large bustling business district. Along almost every house or business, large rainbow fags hang from windows. The people of Hillcrest are a proud people, who believe that anyone that sets foot on their sacred community has a 90% chance of being a homosexual. I have never really had anything against fudge packers and carpet munchers. I always figured that if a guy was gay then that is just the way he is, as long as he doesn't set foot in my military, and as long as my future children aren't gay, then I am totally cool with them.

The thing is.... I am a raging Metrosexual. Sometimes people, gay men especially.... think that because of my appearance, I am gay. Doesn't really bother me, because the people who matter the most know the truth. However, lately I have started to really get fed up with all the looks, stares, and smiles I have been getting from the people of Hillcrest. I feel like a really hot girl that is being gauked at all the time. I feel dirty. I feel like a piece of meat.

For instance: I'm running my usual route,(which happens to go through the gayest place on earth) and a car stops right next to me, a drag queen sticks it's head out the window, and in a deep voice yells, "You work it sister!" I began to run faster and tried to shake the experience out of my head for fear of future nightmares. I turned around at my normal spot, a mile down the road and proceeded to run back the other way. Somehow, as if the freak was stalking me... It yells at me again. I could not hear what it was saying, for I was running as fast as I could. I had 2 miles to go but I was picking up the pace. The look of this individual shook me, and since then I have gotten annoyed when gay guys hit on me.

My closest friend, Bryon said it best when he told me that I shouldn't be getting upset. He is a bigger metrosexual then me, and explained that I really shouldn't be so surprised. Apparently my skin tight clothing looks ultra gay, and I am bringing it upon myself. Whatever the deal is, I feel violated anytime a guy gives me that dirty, I want to pop your can look. eww.

If Hillcrest didn't have all the convenience of cool places for a metrosexual such as myself to go too, I would just not go. If I need to go down to the store, I'm not going to drive the opposite way into ghetto mexicanville. I have never been surronded by such silliness. I urge all of you to come visit me so I can take you to the gayest place on earth.

First post

2004-08-19T23:56:00.000+04:00

Can you say bandwagon?