I just got back from my first underway period in about 13years. Being on a aircraft carrier is just like I remembered it. The ship is built like a maze, with lots of ladderwells and hatches that you need to go through to get were you need to go. What does mean to the layman who has never been to a ship, Lots of climbing narrow stairwells. Sleeping in a small coffin size rack (bed) stacked 3 high. 30-100 people showering and using the same bathroom, which only has 3 showers, 5 sinks and 4 toilets. 12-16 hour workdays. Sounds difficult? It is...But guess what, you get used to it. and it comes natural. The only thing that hurt me was the fact that I havent to long ago had knee surgery, so the old knee was acting up for the first three days. But after that, I was good.
My new job is taking me some time to get used to. Im learning on the fly, while ensuring that my 12 guys are being taken care of. Mind you that only 4 of my guys work in my office, the other 8 have different jobs and responsibilities when we go to the ship, but im their supervisor, and they have to see me for everything. Then If I cant solve the problem, then I go to my supervisor, who pretty much wants me to use my own judgement. Which you learn to do very quickly in the military. The more you supervisor is out of the office, the better. Taking care of the people is not so difficult for me, the difficult part during this sea period for me was traking correspondence, reading evaluations and correcting as neccessary, and reading and rewriting awards packages. Not to mention you see the Commanding Officer and Executive Officer every day and they all know me well, because Im the only one for my rate and rank in the squadron. I cannot just blend in and work. They all have to come through my office for something, because we take care of their paperwork before they sign it. I havent even began to talk about the different things they want me to take on while im here. As you know from reading my previous blogs, I have made a few mistakes while learning the ropes. But you cant let mistakes or missteps slow you down. To be honest, my only advantage is my experience in being passed taskings or jobs that take me WAYYYYYYY out of my comfort zone. With all this being said this two week underway period -seemed like two months. The days stretched out longer than any days I can remember. And when it was time to go and we got off the ship, It felt like we had broken out of Shawshank. (If you dont recognize that reference, check out the movie "The Shawshank Redemption). But on the positive side, the food wasnt to bad(they have a chicken line-(a line where you get only chicken, drummettes, fried, baked) a black mans dream. And im not being stereotypical either, if you would has saw us eating them wings and legs, you would know. The desserts were not that great though. But this was the biggest difference from my last ship, They let you serve yourself, like a buffett line. So you know when they served barbque ribs you seen us with plates stacked to the ceiling with ribs, walking trying to balance the stack to your table. You know I couldnt figure out why we had so many hefty people on the boat with all the stair climbing and walking around required on a daily basis. But when you see those heavy plates at breakfast, lunch, and dinner - then it all becomes crystal clear.
Overall the ship wasnt that bad. The ship is huge - its like the caddilac of the ocean. But my offices is right below the flight deck, so all you hear is jet engines taking off and landing during flight operations. Its pretty loud, but eventually you tune it out. Every morning every one cleans during "spirit" for one hour (7:30-8:30) and you have to clean for the whole hour, dirty or not. Dont be caught not cleaning during this time. Unless you are supervising the cleaning.
Internet connectivity isnt the greatest. And you cannot access your personal email while underway. You have to use your official email address to get mail.
I have to load some software so I can post my pictures I took before we pulled in. Ill update later.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
Movie Observations
I havent blogged in a while i know. I cant say that i couldnt have because there are several events that I could have blogged about but sometimes that procrastination bug kicks in and you let something go for a minute which has turned into a good thing for unwinding, sharing and documenting experiences, as well as keeping all those interested well informed as of what is going on with me. Im going to breifly touch on some things that I saw in the past few days that made me think.
I went to the movies the weekend before last on a whim because I went to blockbuster to return the last three CD's of "The Wire" that I rented. (I can say i am addicted to watching that series and I intend to see every last episode until the last one) When i came out of blockbuster, I zipped by the theater and saw that Tyler Perry's new movie was out. So I checked my watch and lo and behold it was about to start and ( at 2:00 in the afternoon I knew it would be the cheapest time) I went ahead and decided to see it. I was thinking at that time I would probaly be the only one in the theater watching that movie, checking the time and looking at the people in line, I felt Id have the theater to myself! But after grabbing my bag of corn, and going inside I have to say that i was suprised to see it almost full of people, not only that only a handful of us were black, the rest were of asian and latino descent. All of mixed ages. Now I knew Tyler Perry was popular, but I didnt realize how broad his fanbase was. After I watched and enjoyed the movie, I saw that not only did they watch the movie, they all sat patiently while the credits rolled afterwards ( At the same time they were showing excepts of Madea talking with Dr. Phil).
In my mind, All I could think of if Tyler Perry could imagine all this success back in the days when he was struggling, and how wise it was of him to make plays and movies which showcase normal everyday struggles, the importance of family and friends, and the importance of prayer and faith in God. I can easily see why he is so blessed. I feel that its Gods way of saying and showing that when you put Him first, there is no limit to His blessings.
Any body who knows me, knows that I love cars, especially fast ones. Every now and then I see a sleek new Corvette, Porsche 911, or Ferarri and automatically I think to myself, Man It must be nice being them (drivers of said cars) then you look at your car and I feel I have a ways to go to being successful. But God will quickly point out to me how blessed I am, because not soon after Ill always see somebody on the side of the road in a rattletrap, or ill see people waiting in the hot sun or wind at a bus stop, knowing that the bus is probaly running late. These things remind me to stay in my lane, thankful for my blessings, and even though I am always striving to improve I cannot take what I have now for granted. Because I am smart enough to know that it can all be gone in a nanosecond, and I can be walking from point a to point b as cars pass me by.
I went to the movies the weekend before last on a whim because I went to blockbuster to return the last three CD's of "The Wire" that I rented. (I can say i am addicted to watching that series and I intend to see every last episode until the last one) When i came out of blockbuster, I zipped by the theater and saw that Tyler Perry's new movie was out. So I checked my watch and lo and behold it was about to start and ( at 2:00 in the afternoon I knew it would be the cheapest time) I went ahead and decided to see it. I was thinking at that time I would probaly be the only one in the theater watching that movie, checking the time and looking at the people in line, I felt Id have the theater to myself! But after grabbing my bag of corn, and going inside I have to say that i was suprised to see it almost full of people, not only that only a handful of us were black, the rest were of asian and latino descent. All of mixed ages. Now I knew Tyler Perry was popular, but I didnt realize how broad his fanbase was. After I watched and enjoyed the movie, I saw that not only did they watch the movie, they all sat patiently while the credits rolled afterwards ( At the same time they were showing excepts of Madea talking with Dr. Phil).
In my mind, All I could think of if Tyler Perry could imagine all this success back in the days when he was struggling, and how wise it was of him to make plays and movies which showcase normal everyday struggles, the importance of family and friends, and the importance of prayer and faith in God. I can easily see why he is so blessed. I feel that its Gods way of saying and showing that when you put Him first, there is no limit to His blessings.
Any body who knows me, knows that I love cars, especially fast ones. Every now and then I see a sleek new Corvette, Porsche 911, or Ferarri and automatically I think to myself, Man It must be nice being them (drivers of said cars) then you look at your car and I feel I have a ways to go to being successful. But God will quickly point out to me how blessed I am, because not soon after Ill always see somebody on the side of the road in a rattletrap, or ill see people waiting in the hot sun or wind at a bus stop, knowing that the bus is probaly running late. These things remind me to stay in my lane, thankful for my blessings, and even though I am always striving to improve I cannot take what I have now for granted. Because I am smart enough to know that it can all be gone in a nanosecond, and I can be walking from point a to point b as cars pass me by.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Uncommon
So far being at the squadron I have learned that I am going to have a lot of responsibilities and that includes tracking alot of things. So I am learning things fast and working hard to retain everthing as I learn it. My supervisor and sponsor are ready and willing to turn everything over to me and pretty much let me run the show. I just havent figured out yet exactly how im going to do things Its hectic and will be stressful for a while until I learn everything and bring my self up to speed. But just like anybody I want to do a good job and support the mission as best I can. Everyone knows me already and they call me by my rate. Which should be pretty easy because Im the admin LPO and its not exactly easy to blend in when you are 6"3 and weigh 295. No one would pick me as the "admin guy" If they didnt know already what I did.
Right now my "Book of the Year" nomination is "Uncommon" by Tony Dungy. If you dont know he was the former coach of the Indianapolis Colts who was the first black head coach to lead a team to a Super Bowl victory. Have you ever read a book and you read a sentence or paragraph that is so profound that you have to read it out loud to make sure the knowlege stays with you. You want to remember it and use it whenever a situation requires a certain decision. I always choose a book based on the criteria that if I open it up to a random page, start reading and the story draws me and and flows to where I want to keep reading right there in the store, Its a good chance Im going to buy the book. But this book is on the money. Its about finding your path to significance. What make this book insightful for me is that Im always interested in how people overcome different obstacles on the way to success. I enjoy hearing about the failures and the lesson from the failure. The book talks basically about Coach Dungys experiences and how he strives to do things in a way which God would approve. Its written with Christian principles, but with simple common-sense lessons which he learned and applied to become successful. I read the whole book in four days, even when I should have been sleeping I was reading the book. Its a excellent guide for the young male who isnt sure how to carry himself in this day and time. I could go on and on but I wont. Buy it for yourself and see.
Well anyway the lessons from this book helped me feel better about a embarrassing mistake I made today. We were all in a room for training and after the training, the MasterCheif(highest ranking enlisted guy at the command) was talking and he asked if anybody had anything to put out. My cheif whispered in my ear about some worksheets that needed to be sighned. So i wanted to wait till he finished to put the information out. And thats what I did. However I learned that before he talks he askes "Does anyone have anything to put out ?" Then everyone who has something to say, then says it. However after everyone spoke, He started speaking on other things. After he finished and I said " I got something to put out" and i told the people about the worksheets that needed to be sighned. Well it turns out that I spoke WAAAAAAAY OUT OF TURN. After the MasterCheif speaks, the meeting is officially over and nothing is to be said. What ever you say, you supposed to put it out before he starts speaking. But I didnt know that. So he walked out, and my supervisor and sponsor, looked at me kind of shocked but amused. So the mastercheif turns around and says, PS1 I need to talk to you. So I go and he politely explains to me the way it goes. And he was cool because he knew that i didnt know the rules. And i think everyone else knew, that I didnt know as well. I know im going to catch some good natured flack for my gaffe, and I am still embarrassed about it. But overall I had to realize that sometimes you are not going to get it right. And although I know this, reading Coach Dungy's book helped drive this point and many other points home. I have my own way of doing things but looking at certain things from his perspective in the book convinced me that I need to change the way I look at certain things. What seems like failure or misfortune, could be God's will to prepare you for whats ahead. I can relax and chill because when I give some guidance and talk to younger folk than myself, I can include my mistake at the squadron as a tool/example on the importance of attention to detail and knowing the proper protocol before you speak to a group of people.
Im going to save this book to stay in my personal book archive. Only the best and most informative books get this great honor. Let me know if you read it.
Right now my "Book of the Year" nomination is "Uncommon" by Tony Dungy. If you dont know he was the former coach of the Indianapolis Colts who was the first black head coach to lead a team to a Super Bowl victory. Have you ever read a book and you read a sentence or paragraph that is so profound that you have to read it out loud to make sure the knowlege stays with you. You want to remember it and use it whenever a situation requires a certain decision. I always choose a book based on the criteria that if I open it up to a random page, start reading and the story draws me and and flows to where I want to keep reading right there in the store, Its a good chance Im going to buy the book. But this book is on the money. Its about finding your path to significance. What make this book insightful for me is that Im always interested in how people overcome different obstacles on the way to success. I enjoy hearing about the failures and the lesson from the failure. The book talks basically about Coach Dungys experiences and how he strives to do things in a way which God would approve. Its written with Christian principles, but with simple common-sense lessons which he learned and applied to become successful. I read the whole book in four days, even when I should have been sleeping I was reading the book. Its a excellent guide for the young male who isnt sure how to carry himself in this day and time. I could go on and on but I wont. Buy it for yourself and see.
Well anyway the lessons from this book helped me feel better about a embarrassing mistake I made today. We were all in a room for training and after the training, the MasterCheif(highest ranking enlisted guy at the command) was talking and he asked if anybody had anything to put out. My cheif whispered in my ear about some worksheets that needed to be sighned. So i wanted to wait till he finished to put the information out. And thats what I did. However I learned that before he talks he askes "Does anyone have anything to put out ?" Then everyone who has something to say, then says it. However after everyone spoke, He started speaking on other things. After he finished and I said " I got something to put out" and i told the people about the worksheets that needed to be sighned. Well it turns out that I spoke WAAAAAAAY OUT OF TURN. After the MasterCheif speaks, the meeting is officially over and nothing is to be said. What ever you say, you supposed to put it out before he starts speaking. But I didnt know that. So he walked out, and my supervisor and sponsor, looked at me kind of shocked but amused. So the mastercheif turns around and says, PS1 I need to talk to you. So I go and he politely explains to me the way it goes. And he was cool because he knew that i didnt know the rules. And i think everyone else knew, that I didnt know as well. I know im going to catch some good natured flack for my gaffe, and I am still embarrassed about it. But overall I had to realize that sometimes you are not going to get it right. And although I know this, reading Coach Dungy's book helped drive this point and many other points home. I have my own way of doing things but looking at certain things from his perspective in the book convinced me that I need to change the way I look at certain things. What seems like failure or misfortune, could be God's will to prepare you for whats ahead. I can relax and chill because when I give some guidance and talk to younger folk than myself, I can include my mistake at the squadron as a tool/example on the importance of attention to detail and knowing the proper protocol before you speak to a group of people.
Im going to save this book to stay in my personal book archive. Only the best and most informative books get this great honor. Let me know if you read it.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Today
I have came to the realization that this is most likely my last tour in the Navy. I have to enjoy every day no matter what it brings. I have enough experience to realize that even though I am anticipating retirement and letting this military phase of my life come to a close, I know I will miss it. Like so many older former military guys I see walking around with their old ball caps on with pins indicating previous commands, places visited, or medals earned. You can see in their faces when you look at them and they are watching you in uniform. I dont know if I will be like that. Im proud of the things Ive done, the places Ive been, and overall sacrifice of my career in service. But I think that Its on me to make my next phase, my best phase so that my best years are ahead and not behind me.
Today I met our Command Master Cheif and our Commanding Officer- For those who are not in the military (the command master cheif or CMC is the top enlisted guy at a command. He is the voice for all the enlisted folks. The Commanding Officer or CO is the officer in charge of everything who we all report to. ) He was a wiry older guy with intense eyes. All COs in air squadrons are former pilots and some still fly. So he had his flight suit on, all most of them wear daily. He said that he was glad to have me onboard and that he was shorthanded- as I knew before. I assured him that I would do my best to make sure everything is taken care of. And thats exactly what I plan to do. I went on to meet many more people in the squadron who all seem like one big family. I doubt everyone gets along perfectly but when you are at a small command everyone knows everyone, and that creates a somewhat "family" type atmosphere.
Im glad to be here for my last command. Its going to be somewhat of a challenge to keep a eye on so many different things going on. But we all need to be pushed out of our comfort zone in order to grow and stretch ourselves. And this is definitely another one of these times.
I moved from my temporary quarters to my permanent quarters today. I learned that most rooms are two-man rooms. But the brother who assigned me my room hooked me up with my own room. Its not the most luxurious of accomodations. But ill make it do what it do. The most disapointing thing is I learned that everytime we get underway for a cruise, they move us out of the barracks and put all our things in storage. Then when we get back, they move us back into the barracks in different rooms. This is true malarky(remember "G"rated blog) Im going to have to use my connections to snag another single room. I have two much stuff to be sharing a room. I dont think a grown man should have to share a room with another grown man on a permanent basis. I havent had a roommate since 1996 while in the barracks in Japan, and this dude was a country music loving black dude. Who talked with a country accent and wore those boots. Now you can imagine how many times I wanted to strangle this cat. Especially when his friends came over. They all hated me. But from that time I swore i would never have another roomate if I could avoid it. Im sticking to this mantra. Ive earned the right to my own room. No country music allowed.
Today I met our Command Master Cheif and our Commanding Officer- For those who are not in the military (the command master cheif or CMC is the top enlisted guy at a command. He is the voice for all the enlisted folks. The Commanding Officer or CO is the officer in charge of everything who we all report to. ) He was a wiry older guy with intense eyes. All COs in air squadrons are former pilots and some still fly. So he had his flight suit on, all most of them wear daily. He said that he was glad to have me onboard and that he was shorthanded- as I knew before. I assured him that I would do my best to make sure everything is taken care of. And thats exactly what I plan to do. I went on to meet many more people in the squadron who all seem like one big family. I doubt everyone gets along perfectly but when you are at a small command everyone knows everyone, and that creates a somewhat "family" type atmosphere.
Im glad to be here for my last command. Its going to be somewhat of a challenge to keep a eye on so many different things going on. But we all need to be pushed out of our comfort zone in order to grow and stretch ourselves. And this is definitely another one of these times.
I moved from my temporary quarters to my permanent quarters today. I learned that most rooms are two-man rooms. But the brother who assigned me my room hooked me up with my own room. Its not the most luxurious of accomodations. But ill make it do what it do. The most disapointing thing is I learned that everytime we get underway for a cruise, they move us out of the barracks and put all our things in storage. Then when we get back, they move us back into the barracks in different rooms. This is true malarky(remember "G"rated blog) Im going to have to use my connections to snag another single room. I have two much stuff to be sharing a room. I dont think a grown man should have to share a room with another grown man on a permanent basis. I havent had a roommate since 1996 while in the barracks in Japan, and this dude was a country music loving black dude. Who talked with a country accent and wore those boots. Now you can imagine how many times I wanted to strangle this cat. Especially when his friends came over. They all hated me. But from that time I swore i would never have another roomate if I could avoid it. Im sticking to this mantra. Ive earned the right to my own room. No country music allowed.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
First Day at VAW-113
Today was my first day at my new command. I didnt have to be there until this Friday, but i didnt have anything to do plus I didnt feel like paying for additional hotel rooms, So I decided to check in in order not to prolong the anticipation on how it was going to be. And to save some loot.
One of the guys who works in my new office was in school with me. I learned he will be working for me along with 4 other guys in the office. My job will be different this time. Instead of running one section, like im used to. Im in charge of the whole office and all the functions. There is not as many people to be responsible for (only 139) So it will be a little different than Im used too. Alot of functions that I will be responsible for, I have little or no experience in the area. So Ill probaly be spending my first three months reviewing instructions just to get my knowledge base down pat.
My supervisor is a E7 who I remember working in security when we were both in Okinawa. She will be leaving in May so after then Im pretty much on my own. So Ill be hitting her up with all kinds of questions till she leaves. By then I should have a idea of whats going on.
There are not too many black people at the command. The three that I met were all senior to me but seemed real happy to see another black person checking in. One I didnt even know was black until he approached me and gave me a few words of wisdom of how to navigate through the command. I know I have to do my best to represent, because I refuse to be the weak link in the black chain.
I dont think it will be as fast paced as my CSD Monterey, but i think that this is going to be pretty challenging and different, because Im not used to seeing the people who run the show walking around. Everyone is in one building so you cant get away with anything, and they see everything. So you have to be on top of your game at all times. This is not something im used to. I like to skate around and not do anything sometimes. I dont think ill be able to get away with it much here. But its all good. Ill use this experience to sharpen me up for my next job in the civilian world, If there is a job when I retire..well see.
Is it just me or does it seem that some people in the News are doing whatever they can to talk down Obamas plan so it will fail?
One of the guys who works in my new office was in school with me. I learned he will be working for me along with 4 other guys in the office. My job will be different this time. Instead of running one section, like im used to. Im in charge of the whole office and all the functions. There is not as many people to be responsible for (only 139) So it will be a little different than Im used too. Alot of functions that I will be responsible for, I have little or no experience in the area. So Ill probaly be spending my first three months reviewing instructions just to get my knowledge base down pat.
My supervisor is a E7 who I remember working in security when we were both in Okinawa. She will be leaving in May so after then Im pretty much on my own. So Ill be hitting her up with all kinds of questions till she leaves. By then I should have a idea of whats going on.
There are not too many black people at the command. The three that I met were all senior to me but seemed real happy to see another black person checking in. One I didnt even know was black until he approached me and gave me a few words of wisdom of how to navigate through the command. I know I have to do my best to represent, because I refuse to be the weak link in the black chain.
I dont think it will be as fast paced as my CSD Monterey, but i think that this is going to be pretty challenging and different, because Im not used to seeing the people who run the show walking around. Everyone is in one building so you cant get away with anything, and they see everything. So you have to be on top of your game at all times. This is not something im used to. I like to skate around and not do anything sometimes. I dont think ill be able to get away with it much here. But its all good. Ill use this experience to sharpen me up for my next job in the civilian world, If there is a job when I retire..well see.
Is it just me or does it seem that some people in the News are doing whatever they can to talk down Obamas plan so it will fail?
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Finally Finished
We finally finished school on friday. On Tuesday we graduate. So I am in the middle of a 3 day weekend because Monday is a holiday.
Yesterday afternoon I went out to get something to eat. I really wanted some chicken wings but I didnt want any KFC, Churches, or the like. I wanted something different. I ended up at Mission Valley Mall food court which is a few miles away from base. On my way to checking what I wanted I noticed alot of teenagers (or what seemed like teenagers) all in the food court. After just looking around the first thing that went my mind was we are in a new generation. Old school parents would never let there kids out the house looking like these kids looked. It was crazy and I was embarresed for the parents. It just looked like they had no idea what to do with themselves. I had to step back and realize that this is a new day and time, and some of those old school parental restrictions, arent being passed down to this generation. You see it from time to time, but not a whole lot. These kids are doing what they want to do.
Since these are my last couple of days is San Diego Im going to take a few pictures.. Today i am going to go to the bookstore and watch the All-Star game. Ill update soon.
Yesterday afternoon I went out to get something to eat. I really wanted some chicken wings but I didnt want any KFC, Churches, or the like. I wanted something different. I ended up at Mission Valley Mall food court which is a few miles away from base. On my way to checking what I wanted I noticed alot of teenagers (or what seemed like teenagers) all in the food court. After just looking around the first thing that went my mind was we are in a new generation. Old school parents would never let there kids out the house looking like these kids looked. It was crazy and I was embarresed for the parents. It just looked like they had no idea what to do with themselves. I had to step back and realize that this is a new day and time, and some of those old school parental restrictions, arent being passed down to this generation. You see it from time to time, but not a whole lot. These kids are doing what they want to do.
Since these are my last couple of days is San Diego Im going to take a few pictures.. Today i am going to go to the bookstore and watch the All-Star game. Ill update soon.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Suprise Opinions
In class our instructor passed out a copy of a article where a Cheif (E-7) had been convicted of forcing himself on a young female sailor while at a local hotel. He ended up losing his rank, half of his months pay for 2 months, and after which he was going to get kicked out of the military. The article went on to say that the sailor was "traumatized" by the event and would need additional counseling to restore her faith in the male upper chain of command or something of that nature.Now here is what I found interesting. After listening to the class give their opinion on the article 99% of the class (100% of the female class members) beleived the notion that the female sailor was just as guilty as the Cheif. They beleived that there was more to the story and that possibly the female sailor was not as innocent and traumatized as the article made her out to be.
Now....Normally a reasonable person would give the benefit of the doubt to the young sailor which obvious is what happened during the case, because the Cheif should have known better. I didnt voice my opinion but I did say that I doubt the whole story is coming out, because from being at my different commands and observing how a lot of the young female sailors carry themselves in the workplace and outside the workplace, I can Definitely see how they were very skeptical about her being "traumatized". Since this is a " G" rated blog im not going to go into what they thought happened in the case. Now none of them knew the individuals involved in this particular incident- but they reinacted what they thought happened. All of which had interesting points of view. I was most suprised at the opinions of the female class members. Like i said - im not going to go into what they said but it was crazy. Not at all what i expected their reaction to be.
Now....Normally a reasonable person would give the benefit of the doubt to the young sailor which obvious is what happened during the case, because the Cheif should have known better. I didnt voice my opinion but I did say that I doubt the whole story is coming out, because from being at my different commands and observing how a lot of the young female sailors carry themselves in the workplace and outside the workplace, I can Definitely see how they were very skeptical about her being "traumatized". Since this is a " G" rated blog im not going to go into what they thought happened in the case. Now none of them knew the individuals involved in this particular incident- but they reinacted what they thought happened. All of which had interesting points of view. I was most suprised at the opinions of the female class members. Like i said - im not going to go into what they said but it was crazy. Not at all what i expected their reaction to be.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Irritated at Dinner
Not much going on today..It will be a short post but yesterday I was a little annoyed with a guy who sat at my table while I was eating dinner yesterday. Him and the girl he was with ( both probaly in their early 20's (black) was talking and i was just watching President Obama on TV in the cafeteria. Now the tv isnt so loud in the cafeteria plus people are talking, so im struggling to listen. Then dude and the girl get on the subject of movies. And he tells her that he is a Batman fan, and that everyone is a Batman fan or should be. Of course the girl disagrees, so to prove his point, he starts asking random people walking through the line, have they seen all the batman movies, and do they like batman. Now im not looking at him, my eyes are glued to the TV. As so to indicate my serious interest in the stimulis package President Obama is trying to school these republicans on, and not some dorky debate on batman. So this cat gets my attention and starts asking me all these questions on my knowlege on batman. So my N---er alarm goes off in my brain and im thinking "If you dont shut the (jinglebells) up while the Presidents on..Cant you see im looking at TV" I know my eyes say this when i look at him. But i politely said, I only saw one batman movie, and no others..and no im not a fan of batman," At the same time on top of the fact he saw i was looking at the TV, Did he not observe that Im a grown, 37 year old man?? Why in the (jinglebells) would I entertain or have a interest in a batman conversation.??
Needless to say he got the picture and eventually both of them left....
As soon as they left the President had already went off. I was hot as a 45.
You should be able to beat people about the head and shoulders when they dont think........Thats my take.
Needless to say he got the picture and eventually both of them left....
As soon as they left the President had already went off. I was hot as a 45.
You should be able to beat people about the head and shoulders when they dont think........Thats my take.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Today
In the last few days I was struggling to think about something to blog about. This is because there was nothing that happened that I thought was worth telling. But Ill just touch on a few observations for the last couple of days and see what was interesting.
Saturday- I was cleaning the car and a guy came over and checked it out and told me it was "a nice machine" I thanked him and noticed he had a pretty nice truck. I noticed it had a trailer hitch on the back, while he was explaining to me that he had a 18ft boat that he uses to sportfish and relax on with his sons. He was retired navy and he had sons who where currently in the navy. Black man of course. Now this observation was regular run in the mill except one fact: I could not get over the fact that he had a raggedy mouth. Like Kenny Ray, Johnnie Smith, Jasper Williams type raggedy. As a matter of fact if I would have saw him in passing - he strikes you as one of those cats that ride around the neighborhood on a old bike waving and grinning wide at everyone he sees. Dont front, you all know what im talking about. I guess teeth arent that high on the priority list....
Super Bowl - GREAT GAME! I was pulling for the Cardinals till i realized that it would mean more for Mike Tomlin (Pittsburghs Coach) to win. By him leading that team to the Superbowl and winning and him being so young will open the door for so many black coaches. This is only his second year on the job and he is one of the youngest head coaches in the league. That has got to open some eyes - Even though they didnt spend much time giving him credit. Most of the credit I noticed went to Ben Rothlesburger- The QB from Pittsburgh. But they know.
Larry Fitzgerald from the Cardinals is WAY better than I thought. Phenomonal player.
Today I went to lunch with some of my classmates at the galley. It was a normal lunch until I realized that it was a mini-united nations. It was me, a guy from Nigeria, a guy from Jamaica, and a guy from Belize. We talked about why the US was in trouble and why/how Bush jacked up America. I have strong opinions on this matter -but I was more interested in their points of view, so I mostly listened and basically they thought like I did. You know sometimes I used to look at TV and I used to wonder - Am I the only one who is noticing this craziness. Is everyone else fooled. Well I learned from all the people Ive talked too from everywhere that people know when you are not coming correct and when you are not being honest. However there are some die hard Bush supporters and I knew it because we were getting some hard looks from people sitting at surrounding tables..(because we were talking loud like black folk do) But nobody said one word to us.
Today I got a 100 on one of my job sheets. Now my average is around 94.3. Although its not the best, My goal is to leave with what I came to get. and thats what I intend to do......
Saturday- I was cleaning the car and a guy came over and checked it out and told me it was "a nice machine" I thanked him and noticed he had a pretty nice truck. I noticed it had a trailer hitch on the back, while he was explaining to me that he had a 18ft boat that he uses to sportfish and relax on with his sons. He was retired navy and he had sons who where currently in the navy. Black man of course. Now this observation was regular run in the mill except one fact: I could not get over the fact that he had a raggedy mouth. Like Kenny Ray, Johnnie Smith, Jasper Williams type raggedy. As a matter of fact if I would have saw him in passing - he strikes you as one of those cats that ride around the neighborhood on a old bike waving and grinning wide at everyone he sees. Dont front, you all know what im talking about. I guess teeth arent that high on the priority list....
Super Bowl - GREAT GAME! I was pulling for the Cardinals till i realized that it would mean more for Mike Tomlin (Pittsburghs Coach) to win. By him leading that team to the Superbowl and winning and him being so young will open the door for so many black coaches. This is only his second year on the job and he is one of the youngest head coaches in the league. That has got to open some eyes - Even though they didnt spend much time giving him credit. Most of the credit I noticed went to Ben Rothlesburger- The QB from Pittsburgh. But they know.
Larry Fitzgerald from the Cardinals is WAY better than I thought. Phenomonal player.
Today I went to lunch with some of my classmates at the galley. It was a normal lunch until I realized that it was a mini-united nations. It was me, a guy from Nigeria, a guy from Jamaica, and a guy from Belize. We talked about why the US was in trouble and why/how Bush jacked up America. I have strong opinions on this matter -but I was more interested in their points of view, so I mostly listened and basically they thought like I did. You know sometimes I used to look at TV and I used to wonder - Am I the only one who is noticing this craziness. Is everyone else fooled. Well I learned from all the people Ive talked too from everywhere that people know when you are not coming correct and when you are not being honest. However there are some die hard Bush supporters and I knew it because we were getting some hard looks from people sitting at surrounding tables..(because we were talking loud like black folk do) But nobody said one word to us.
Today I got a 100 on one of my job sheets. Now my average is around 94.3. Although its not the best, My goal is to leave with what I came to get. and thats what I intend to do......
Friday, January 30, 2009
TGIF
Today i got up in the mood to go to school, (1) I knew it was going to be a short day and (2) We are now covering a topic that im comfortable with - Travel entitlements. We spent ton Fiscal processing and to me it was boring and a little complicated at the same time. It doesnt help that I have a short attention span. But hey travel - thats no real problem for me, I ran the travel section at my last command, so Im on cruise control until this topic ends.
But there was no work for today. We learned that we have a student sweep which means every student attending school in ALL the classes had to provide a sample for urinalysis (drug testing). Now normally this isnt so bad. At my previous commands we go in the restroom with a "observer" you go in the bathroom, he just sits in the bathroom in the open area, you provide a sample, do a little paperwork and thats it. But its not so simple here at this training command from what they was telling us.. A couple of my classmates was talking about you have to "get buck naked from the waste down and the observer pulls a chair in front of you and observes your "jingle bells" (this is a "G" rated blog) going in the cup. Now this sounded a little crazy too me, but they were all saying "no, no its true, its true" So im thinking they have to see your crack and everything??? Does my buttcheeks need to be in the breeze?? Ok..whatever Its not everyday so fine.. But when i went to my designated location and when it was my time to go I had this skinny black dude as my observer.. So we went to the bathroom and it wasnt even like that - but they do have to watch your "jinglebells" providing a sample to the cup..Its not the most comfortable thing in the world but its protocol to prevent you from providing a fake sample or whatever. So its ok. No different feeling than going to the doctor and doing all the things he/she needs you to do to treat you.
Today I ate at the galley, (pork adobo, mixed vegetables, spinach, rice) To say it wasnt good is a understatement. I had to look down at my clothes to make sure I wasnt wearing a orange jumpsuit with the prison number #128734. But hey food is food and Its not that im ungrateful, Its just that if you know someone or a institution is paying for a food and paying you to provide it, the least you can do is prepare it properly. I think this is because its payday and they dont expect people to eat there because they have money in their pockets. But I dont care if it is payday I aint spending no more than I have too..these are tough economic times.
But there was no work for today. We learned that we have a student sweep which means every student attending school in ALL the classes had to provide a sample for urinalysis (drug testing). Now normally this isnt so bad. At my previous commands we go in the restroom with a "observer" you go in the bathroom, he just sits in the bathroom in the open area, you provide a sample, do a little paperwork and thats it. But its not so simple here at this training command from what they was telling us.. A couple of my classmates was talking about you have to "get buck naked from the waste down and the observer pulls a chair in front of you and observes your "jingle bells" (this is a "G" rated blog) going in the cup. Now this sounded a little crazy too me, but they were all saying "no, no its true, its true" So im thinking they have to see your crack and everything??? Does my buttcheeks need to be in the breeze?? Ok..whatever Its not everyday so fine.. But when i went to my designated location and when it was my time to go I had this skinny black dude as my observer.. So we went to the bathroom and it wasnt even like that - but they do have to watch your "jinglebells" providing a sample to the cup..Its not the most comfortable thing in the world but its protocol to prevent you from providing a fake sample or whatever. So its ok. No different feeling than going to the doctor and doing all the things he/she needs you to do to treat you.
Today I ate at the galley, (pork adobo, mixed vegetables, spinach, rice) To say it wasnt good is a understatement. I had to look down at my clothes to make sure I wasnt wearing a orange jumpsuit with the prison number #128734. But hey food is food and Its not that im ungrateful, Its just that if you know someone or a institution is paying for a food and paying you to provide it, the least you can do is prepare it properly. I think this is because its payday and they dont expect people to eat there because they have money in their pockets. But I dont care if it is payday I aint spending no more than I have too..these are tough economic times.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
My phone is back!!
Yesterday afternoon I realized that i didnt have my cellphone. I looked everywhere for it. I went to every lost and found place in the area where I was at. I was not happy because I didnt want to replace the phone or try to remember all the info I had in it. It also has sentimental value.
Well anyway just when i was about to give up I went back to the gym to check one more time ( I previously checked twice last night) And what do you know, One of the brothers who was talking to me while I was taking muster (making sure all my people were accounted for -for those of you who have never been in the military) and I left it there, he found it and kept it and waited for me to come back looking for it. He had since got off work when i came back last night, so nobody who was there was able to locate it previously. Needless to say I was happy to have my ol phone back. I just have to be more careful with it...you know how it is.
Since I did decide im jumping in this body -4 life, im going to be posting my before pics so you all can see the progression. Im all in. Its so easy to fall into old habits, but this is going to be my year of checking the boxes. Whatever it takes.
Well anyway just when i was about to give up I went back to the gym to check one more time ( I previously checked twice last night) And what do you know, One of the brothers who was talking to me while I was taking muster (making sure all my people were accounted for -for those of you who have never been in the military) and I left it there, he found it and kept it and waited for me to come back looking for it. He had since got off work when i came back last night, so nobody who was there was able to locate it previously. Needless to say I was happy to have my ol phone back. I just have to be more careful with it...you know how it is.
Since I did decide im jumping in this body -4 life, im going to be posting my before pics so you all can see the progression. Im all in. Its so easy to fall into old habits, but this is going to be my year of checking the boxes. Whatever it takes.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Attention to Detail Part II First Exam
Today we had our first exam after so many in class quizzes. It was open book, open notes but as all you test takers know that those are the hardests tests to pass. The instructor did a review with us for about 1 hour over 2 1/2 weeks of notes but the test was only 25 questions. She told us if we missed more than 5 questions then we failed the test, because you must graduate with at least a 80% average. After I finished that test I was praying that I didnt fail, for one I dont like failing, for two It would have been embarrasing to get that look from your classmates..You know the look..The ol "You failed" look. Nah I didnt want to go out like that, and I needed the Lords Help to make it so. then she graded the test.......Whats that church saying?? "God is Good (chorus "all the time") And all the time (chorus "God is Good") I learned I missed 4 questions out of 25. Which gave me a 84%. I know, I know its not great..but it kept me from the walk of shame, because everyone who didnt pass had to meet with the instructor after class.
Now the reason why i call this blog "Attention To Detail Part II" Is because after she reviewed the test, I learned that I got 3 questions wrong because even though I knew the right answer, I colored in the wrong circle on the answer sheet. I should only have missed one!! If I would have been spot on with my "ATD" then I would have scored one of the highest in the class. Focus is so very important.
On another note, Did you all see that Obama interview with the Islamic TV station. Our President is spot on. This cat is as close to the standard of excellence as I have seen on TV representing our country. Its crazy because you dont have to have a degree in political science to understand the nature of what is is trying to say, or where he is going. I like that.
Todays lunch: A hotdog and a hamburger. Plain just mustard and ketchup.
Im hungry again so Ill sign out now.
Now the reason why i call this blog "Attention To Detail Part II" Is because after she reviewed the test, I learned that I got 3 questions wrong because even though I knew the right answer, I colored in the wrong circle on the answer sheet. I should only have missed one!! If I would have been spot on with my "ATD" then I would have scored one of the highest in the class. Focus is so very important.
On another note, Did you all see that Obama interview with the Islamic TV station. Our President is spot on. This cat is as close to the standard of excellence as I have seen on TV representing our country. Its crazy because you dont have to have a degree in political science to understand the nature of what is is trying to say, or where he is going. I like that.
Todays lunch: A hotdog and a hamburger. Plain just mustard and ketchup.
Im hungry again so Ill sign out now.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Staying Focused...
This is about the time of the month where everyone who started off strong with those New Years Resolutions, kinda start to fall off. Yes it was energizing as well as inspiring to see Obama in the inaguaration, but as far as goals are concerned, Unless you have a clear cut plan which you are following with a precision like focus..You are maybe starting to get a little lazy around about now and starting to fall into your same mundane flow of doing business. This here is me. Today i was almost done. I could use the fact that i have to study as much as I can to make excuses, but today i just didnt feel like it. So Im happy to say I attended my second day of Spin Class. It was much easier because mentally I was prepared to complete the whole hour. It was still a good workout.I decided for the 5th time to enter the " Body-for-Life 12 week challenge. I am putting this out here on my blog, strictly for accountability purposes. I want to be held to this challenge. Its 12 weeks of discipline to see how good of shape you can get in. All you have to do is use some Muscle- Tech products. So Im going to update this blog weekly on my status. Im on the straight talk express now.
Today I ate at the galley or (chow hall) It cost $4.25. It wasnt the greatest. I ended up eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich when I got back to my room. Go Figure.
Today I ate at the galley or (chow hall) It cost $4.25. It wasnt the greatest. I ended up eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich when I got back to my room. Go Figure.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Count Your Blessings
Today I went out just to get away from the barracks. I navigated my way to Best Buy to see if i could find a webcam i could use for skype. So i found best buy and got my camera and was on my way to my car when a woman stopped me with a box of candy. She said, " I dont mean any disrespect but Im out here with my daughter and we are having a rough time. I have some candy here and all im asking for is donations. I had some coins in my pocket which i gave to her and got me a grape blowpop. As I was driving out of the parking lot I saw the lady talking to a couple and her daughter " I guess that was her" was standing nearby. it seems the couple gave them some money i dont know how much. But to see the look on the daughters face made these tough economic times real for me. She had a look mixed with shame and embarrassement. but she stood by the mother as she talked with the couple. Then i thought to myself "How blessed am I?" That could be me not knowing where my next meal was coming from. Then i wished i would have gave her more. But i didnt have but $7 dollars in my wallet.
I realized as i was driving home that me and my family is blessed beyond blessed. And we should thank the Good Lord when we have the money to pay our bills and buy the things we need to keep going. I have spent much money on useless items and even though I manage to save a little bit im going to do better, because I felt then if you have then you should do.
I learned you cant judge a book by its cover. Many times I saw Tony Robbins books in the store and i never thought to try it because he looked goofy to me. But his infomercial came on about some motivational items he was selling. It sounded good so i decided to check you tube to see what kind of speaker he was and to see if he was legit. Well i learned that guy is a powerful speaker. Ill have to try to pick up some of his items. I like motivational books.
Well I wasted most of this saturday away. Ill have to study all day tomorrow to catch up...
I realized as i was driving home that me and my family is blessed beyond blessed. And we should thank the Good Lord when we have the money to pay our bills and buy the things we need to keep going. I have spent much money on useless items and even though I manage to save a little bit im going to do better, because I felt then if you have then you should do.
I learned you cant judge a book by its cover. Many times I saw Tony Robbins books in the store and i never thought to try it because he looked goofy to me. But his infomercial came on about some motivational items he was selling. It sounded good so i decided to check you tube to see what kind of speaker he was and to see if he was legit. Well i learned that guy is a powerful speaker. Ill have to try to pick up some of his items. I like motivational books.
Well I wasted most of this saturday away. Ill have to study all day tomorrow to catch up...
Friday, January 23, 2009
Attention to Detail
Today I got my next two test scores for our "job" sheets. One I scored a 88.10 and the other one was 90.87. And most of the class scored higher than me. All my mistakes were because I didnt provide the complete answer or I was rushing to finish everything up. And its minus one point if you forget any small detail..because you are dealing with Navy funds so everything needs to be perfect..Now I know you are thinking "why is this" well its because during this class we are allowed to talk to each other and help each other with the answers and use our notes. So basically the class ends up comparing notes-then going to the most experienced person on the subject to make sure their answers are ok.. The teachers encourage this because they say out in the fleet we can call on other people when you need help.
Now me with my hard headed self , I very rarely try to copy anyones answers even when they offer me the paper. Why? Because I want to know it for myself and correct my own mistakes besides copying off others or letting them give me the answers. Test scores are great - but when you are out there and that inspector or Supervisor wants you to provide some information , you dont have classmates to call or refer too. There are no instructors and you are basically out on a island. A island I have been on many times...So to me Its important that I know it on my own. So my scores are taking a beating(a little) But im still going to come out this class with a decent score.
Enough of the school - today i had a taste for some Phillipino food. I got it and it wasnt as good as i imagined it would be because i had it before. They were slacking today.. Ill give them another try before i leave because i got the same thing when i first got here and it was delicous..I need to take some pictures for updates.
I took a nap when i got home from school..after i ate of course and now its 11:00pm. Nothing much to do..I could go out on the town because its near but I dont feel like spending any money.
I guess Ill wash my clothes so I dont have to do it tomorrow.
Now me with my hard headed self , I very rarely try to copy anyones answers even when they offer me the paper. Why? Because I want to know it for myself and correct my own mistakes besides copying off others or letting them give me the answers. Test scores are great - but when you are out there and that inspector or Supervisor wants you to provide some information , you dont have classmates to call or refer too. There are no instructors and you are basically out on a island. A island I have been on many times...So to me Its important that I know it on my own. So my scores are taking a beating(a little) But im still going to come out this class with a decent score.
Enough of the school - today i had a taste for some Phillipino food. I got it and it wasnt as good as i imagined it would be because i had it before. They were slacking today.. Ill give them another try before i leave because i got the same thing when i first got here and it was delicous..I need to take some pictures for updates.
I took a nap when i got home from school..after i ate of course and now its 11:00pm. Nothing much to do..I could go out on the town because its near but I dont feel like spending any money.
I guess Ill wash my clothes so I dont have to do it tomorrow.
Spin Class
As you all know 2009 is the year of trying new things as well as getting into goal mode. I was invited to try a spin class. For those who dont know what spin is its indoor bike riding on a stationary bike. So I arrive for what i think is a 30 minute class and I take my position on the bike with about 12 other people in the class. The instructor is a cyclist who rides miles and miles normally and he let us know that on this day. Im here to tell you all for me, this class was murder. I was so tired i didnt know what the world too do. I was tired 10 minutes into the class which i learned while I was ON the bike that the class was one hour long. Standing up, pedeling uphill, sprinting, all on 30 second intervals. After the class i had to rush back to my room, take a shower, and get to class because i did not have much time. the class starts at 0530 and my class starts at 0745. But i had some work to turn in so i wanted to get there sooner.
I was tired all day and especially sleepy after lunch. I didnt have a heavy lunch so I knew it was the class that got me. But guess what..Ill be at the next class this Tuesday. Because like I said it 2009 and I think that class is going to pay big dividends in getting me back in shape. Im not buying any of those tight biker shorts though. thats carrying it too far.
I was tired all day and especially sleepy after lunch. I didnt have a heavy lunch so I knew it was the class that got me. But guess what..Ill be at the next class this Tuesday. Because like I said it 2009 and I think that class is going to pay big dividends in getting me back in shape. Im not buying any of those tight biker shorts though. thats carrying it too far.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inauguration Day
Today I went to PT with my classmates to exersize. After exersizing I kept thinking I would like to watch the inaguration on tv, but I wouldnt have the chance. We are coming off of a long weekend and there is no way I would be able to see it. So I was just set to rewatch it whenever they played it agian. But just to tell you how much support our nation has changed, two of my classmates (both fillipinos, who out rank me - but I was selected as class leader, so I make all the class decisions) approched me about how important it was to them so see the inaguration. None of the black people asked me anything about it. They were persisent to. So I called our instructor and told her that we would like to see the inaguration, and she gave us a extra two hours so we could see the swearing in..This was great because I could say I was watching along with everyone when it actually happened. This was great for me..Ill make sure ill let the teacher know how much i appreciate that!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Yesterday and today
Yesterday i gave up junk food.. My last junk food meal was a double cheeseburger, chicken sandwich and large frieds. Its going to be difficult to let it go completely because i love french fries. But you got to give up something to get something. If i want to get in shape then french fries cant be the priority.
Today i got on the bike for 45 minutes and burnt about 429 calories and rode about 12.28 miles. I like the exersize bike but i cant wait to get to point mugu ( my next duty station ) so i can ride my actual bicycle. I got a good one that was sized to my height, weight, and riding style. I didnt know that you can get a large frame bicycle. I thought all bikes were the same size once you got the adult one. I would have never learned this if my cheap jeep bicycle wouldnt have got stolen.. My new bike is definitely a upgrade and you can tell the difference big time..Ill post a pic of me and my trusty bike when i get to my new duty station.
I have been watching the nomination on and off for the last two day. I cannot get tired of watching it..if they make a dvd of everything im definitely getting it. As I was riding the bike today in my everlong quest to get back to top shape I realized that Barack Obama has managed to do what only Nelson Mandela and the guy whom "The pursuit of Happyness" has done in my eyes, which was take away all excuses for greatness and personal acheivement. We really dont have any excuses..In a way thats a very uncomfortable feeling because many of us have found a comfort zone in our excuses, and become lazy in that comfort zone. But a wise man once seed that true sucess comes from getting out of our comfort zone...I think this was Dennis Kimbro - the author of "What makes the Great Great" One of the most fantastic books i have ever read...
We all have goals and sometimes we fall in to the trap of wanting everything to happen right now and we get impatient with the process...Got to love to love the journey and the process..That Dennis Kimbro just jumped into me..Got to switch back to WCT
Today i got on the bike for 45 minutes and burnt about 429 calories and rode about 12.28 miles. I like the exersize bike but i cant wait to get to point mugu ( my next duty station ) so i can ride my actual bicycle. I got a good one that was sized to my height, weight, and riding style. I didnt know that you can get a large frame bicycle. I thought all bikes were the same size once you got the adult one. I would have never learned this if my cheap jeep bicycle wouldnt have got stolen.. My new bike is definitely a upgrade and you can tell the difference big time..Ill post a pic of me and my trusty bike when i get to my new duty station.
I have been watching the nomination on and off for the last two day. I cannot get tired of watching it..if they make a dvd of everything im definitely getting it. As I was riding the bike today in my everlong quest to get back to top shape I realized that Barack Obama has managed to do what only Nelson Mandela and the guy whom "The pursuit of Happyness" has done in my eyes, which was take away all excuses for greatness and personal acheivement. We really dont have any excuses..In a way thats a very uncomfortable feeling because many of us have found a comfort zone in our excuses, and become lazy in that comfort zone. But a wise man once seed that true sucess comes from getting out of our comfort zone...I think this was Dennis Kimbro - the author of "What makes the Great Great" One of the most fantastic books i have ever read...
We all have goals and sometimes we fall in to the trap of wanting everything to happen right now and we get impatient with the process...Got to love to love the journey and the process..That Dennis Kimbro just jumped into me..Got to switch back to WCT
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Yesterday's adventure
Yesterday I decided to venture out and ride around San Diego a bit. So I plugged in Horton Plaza to the GPS and away I went to see the sights. As I rode around I noticed that it was exceptionally nice day and everything looked good. People walk around here like they are on vacation, Kind of like they do in Monterey. I found a place to park the car once I got to Horton Plaza. I went to pay for the parking and this older gentlemen and his wife asked me did I need a parking ticket. I said yes and they gave me theirs! They paid $20 for all day parking but they didnt need but 1 and a half. I walked them to their car so they could give me their ticket. If i was thinking i would have took their picture. I thanked him very much of course and he said all i ask is that you give it to somebody else if you dont use all the time. I ended up being there about 2 hours. When I came from the mall I was looking for somebody to give the ticket to, but I couldnt tell whether people had already paid, or was leaving the parking lot. And I didnt want people to look at me like I was crazy or trying to pull a fast one on them, so I just kept it...just incase I decided to come back to that area later that day.
I wanted to go to another mall and my stupid GPS system stopped tracking sattelites. Which means I had no idea where i was going. I ended up riding around all of San Diego not having a idea where I was. But the think about here i learned coming in is that highway 5 is the major road that runs through San Diego so if you can get back to the 5 then you are good.
It was all good, I just burnt more gas than i wanted to.
Nothing funny happend..but I had to use the bathroom and I went to Subway to use theres. And as im heading back to the car (I dont care too much for Subway Subs) i noticed a homeless lady sitting near where I was parked..I couldnt really tell if it was a man or a woman so i looked really hard..I was thinking, maybe i should hook this lady up with a sub, and do my good deed for the day to make up for that free parking i got earlier. But i guess she got nervous at me watching her and she picked up her stuff and walked away..So I thought "No sub for you" Then i hopped back in my car and I was on my way..
I noticed i need some new tires. I hate it when you have a few extra dollars then here comes a new expense..Burns my gall it does.
Well ill post later!
I wanted to go to another mall and my stupid GPS system stopped tracking sattelites. Which means I had no idea where i was going. I ended up riding around all of San Diego not having a idea where I was. But the think about here i learned coming in is that highway 5 is the major road that runs through San Diego so if you can get back to the 5 then you are good.
It was all good, I just burnt more gas than i wanted to.
Nothing funny happend..but I had to use the bathroom and I went to Subway to use theres. And as im heading back to the car (I dont care too much for Subway Subs) i noticed a homeless lady sitting near where I was parked..I couldnt really tell if it was a man or a woman so i looked really hard..I was thinking, maybe i should hook this lady up with a sub, and do my good deed for the day to make up for that free parking i got earlier. But i guess she got nervous at me watching her and she picked up her stuff and walked away..So I thought "No sub for you" Then i hopped back in my car and I was on my way..
I noticed i need some new tires. I hate it when you have a few extra dollars then here comes a new expense..Burns my gall it does.
Well ill post later!
Friday, January 16, 2009
First Quiz
We got our first job sheet and I learned my score was 94.8. Although this is a decent score a few of my classmates scored 100% and thats the score I wanted to have. Most of my errors were small but as we know little things add up...
As you all well know I got a weight loss-get in shape goal for this year. One of the reasons for creating this blog is for accountability as well as to monitor my progress. My goal is to lose 95 pounds this year. I know that seems like alot but it totals out to be about 8 pounds per month. Comparing it to those people on "The biggest loser who lose between 64-110 pounds in a 10 week period. But I dont have a weight loss campus to sit around at and exersize and eat healthy.I got things to do and money to earn. But Im on my way. What im going to do is weigh in once every week and keep a monthly tally. I will probaly have little rewards per 10 pounds loss and once I get that get a little better every extra 10 pounds. If i meet my goal im going to buy something huge as a reward..Im thinking a Rolex watch or something nice like that. You have to reward yourself and keep focused..Naturally having the extra good health will speak for itself.
My current weight I learned is 305. End goal 210.
We will see what happens...
As you all well know I got a weight loss-get in shape goal for this year. One of the reasons for creating this blog is for accountability as well as to monitor my progress. My goal is to lose 95 pounds this year. I know that seems like alot but it totals out to be about 8 pounds per month. Comparing it to those people on "The biggest loser who lose between 64-110 pounds in a 10 week period. But I dont have a weight loss campus to sit around at and exersize and eat healthy.I got things to do and money to earn. But Im on my way. What im going to do is weigh in once every week and keep a monthly tally. I will probaly have little rewards per 10 pounds loss and once I get that get a little better every extra 10 pounds. If i meet my goal im going to buy something huge as a reward..Im thinking a Rolex watch or something nice like that. You have to reward yourself and keep focused..Naturally having the extra good health will speak for itself.
My current weight I learned is 305. End goal 210.
We will see what happens...
Thursday, January 15, 2009
E7 exam..
Hi everyone,
I know you all are just reading this blog, and im just start to post on it. Feel free to leave any comments you so desire. Its intended to just to post some views that I have from day to day as well as keep you all up with whats going on with me. Ill include some observations and what not, just crazy things i see and sometimes do everyday.
Today i took the E7 test today... I didnt study so chances are I didnt do so well. Ill pass it next time. I know im going to get some flak at my next command about it..Tyler whats up with you, why didnt you past the test..My response will be geared to whomever makes the comment. If its a higher ranking person than me, My response will be: Ill try harder next time! I lost my focus for this test..however if they are the same rank or lower than me..my response will be along the lines of "Mind your business, and while you are at it, kiss a monkey's cayes.. Now if you arent from around the way you probaly dont know what cayes are. And if you dont than its better you didnt.
Today i took my first lesson quiz..I missed a few.. I hope this doenst ruin my chance of being the highest in the class. we have 19 people in the class. My goal is at least being one of the top 5 in the class.
Well its time for me to go. Im going to take some pictures this weekend. And keep you all updated on everything.. piece out..
I know you all are just reading this blog, and im just start to post on it. Feel free to leave any comments you so desire. Its intended to just to post some views that I have from day to day as well as keep you all up with whats going on with me. Ill include some observations and what not, just crazy things i see and sometimes do everyday.
Today i took the E7 test today... I didnt study so chances are I didnt do so well. Ill pass it next time. I know im going to get some flak at my next command about it..Tyler whats up with you, why didnt you past the test..My response will be geared to whomever makes the comment. If its a higher ranking person than me, My response will be: Ill try harder next time! I lost my focus for this test..however if they are the same rank or lower than me..my response will be along the lines of "Mind your business, and while you are at it, kiss a monkey's cayes.. Now if you arent from around the way you probaly dont know what cayes are. And if you dont than its better you didnt.
Today i took my first lesson quiz..I missed a few.. I hope this doenst ruin my chance of being the highest in the class. we have 19 people in the class. My goal is at least being one of the top 5 in the class.
Well its time for me to go. Im going to take some pictures this weekend. And keep you all updated on everything.. piece out..
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