Casper's Calamity

Getting Away in LaGrange, TX

2007-04-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

Train over the CO river

A few weeks ago I had a chance to get away with some family. I have always spent time in LaGrange when I was growing up and have lots of family there. If you don't know anything about LaGrange, TX then maybe you should listen to more ZZ TOP. Anyway, I took this on one of the relaxing afternoons we were enjoying down by the Colorado River. I think it came out pretty good and was a good photo to experiment with Focal Point black & white.

Iraqi Mantis in Jungle Camo

2006-10-04T12:32:00.000-07:00

Praying Mantis

Today we came across this Mantis while moving some Camo-netting. It was nice to see some color for once. Most bugs here are either to small to see and biting you or blend in with the brown dirt that is Iraq. Even the Ladybugs here are tan/brown. A friend said to me yesterday that they are "naked ladybugs, out without their spots." Well, spots can be found but there is no bright orange or reds for sure. I don't know if praying mantis' have a religious preference or not but I would assume this little guy is muslim here in Iraq.

The New Canon EOS REBEL XTi

2006-09-30T23:37:00.000-07:00

Canon Rebel XTi

This is my newest toy and a great step up from a point and shoot. Now that I have purchased my first DSLR there is a whole new world of photography that has opened up, as well as the new expense of lenses etc. But so far this puppy is a great investment and loads of fun!

Taji Bloggers Conference

2006-05-25T00:16:00.000-07:00

Meeting of the minds!

24-May-2006 was the gathering of bloggers on Camp Taji -Iraq for a Blogger Luncheon.
Attendees included the Bloggers from Dave's Not Here, Talking Salmons, Those Wacky Iraqis & myself.

This was the first of what I hope will become a monthly gathering of bloggers and a chance to kick back, relax and share stories of our time here in Iraq.

We enjoyed some of the best food in the country, "TACO BELL," which is quite a rarity to find on a base in Iraq. On a side note: It seems everyone else had to comment on my "No Tomatoes" order and make a much bigger deal of Salmon eating my chicken tacos than it was. Heck, I didn't even care, let the man eat! He's the soldier, we work here to support him. Any soldier that wants my Taco Bell is more than welcome to it... LOL

Anyway, it was a great time full of good humor and a chance to break from "the norm."

Thailand -Pattaya!!

2006-05-11T00:25:00.000-07:00

Walking Street -Pattaya

Vegas & Mexico eat your heart out! Thailand was one of the most awesome vacations I have ever had and the price is one of the best parts. If you have never been then you just don't know! It was a great trip even with a day visit to the Dentist. Jetskiing and the beaches were great, shopping and food was too. Thank goodness my buddies girlfriend didn't like the whole bug thing, so he didn't eat any or try to get me to eat any either. I am definitely going back soon!

Random Thought!

2006-04-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

Taco Bell Iraq -Taji!

In the next few days I will be traveling to Thailand. I have never been to an Asian country before. East of the "Middle East" will be a big first. I know that Taco Bell has nothing to do with Thailand, that I know of, but these packets are pretty funny sometimes and this Taco Bell meal will probably be the last good American food that I get until I return. I have heard good things about food in Thailand, but I will just have to see for myself. One of the friends I am going with showed me some video from his last trip. He was eating big fried grasshoppers and grubs. He said I have to try it, but I don't plan on tasting any insects unless its for survival necessity!

The Icy Ukraine in March '06

2006-04-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

-5 Below in Kharkiv Ukraine

In March I ventured back to the Ukraine. My first trip here was wonderful weather in July '05. This trip was but a taste of Siberian winter. At -5 degrees Fahrenheit cold has a whole new meaning. It snowed almost every day of the 2 weeks that I was there, but it was a nice change from Iraqi sun.

After the Rains

2006-04-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

After the Rain

I dont know about most people, but cracked earth has always looked interesting to me. I thought I would tool around with this shot a bit. This is more evidence of the extreme temps in Iraq that turn age old, baby powder like, sand/dirt into the stickiest muck you've ever seen one day and back into cracked dry earth ready to start the erotion process the next.

Guess What?

2006-04-23T05:33:00.000-07:00

Guess what?

I was playing with a coworkers Canon Digital RebelXT today and decided to play around with it a little. This is one thing that I took a photo of, any guesses? Those that have served/worked in Iraq can not answer... heh! Good Luck, leave a comment... this may be easier than I think, but it could be interesting.

Things Worth Blogging

2006-04-06T01:34:00.000-07:00

Dan the Man

After my hiatus from blogging a very important matter has given me reason to break my silence.
The author of "Fingers are Faucets for the Brain," Danial, a close friend of mine was medivac'd to Germany and has been in critical condition for several weeks.

A new blog, "Dan Updates," was created by Dan's friend Darve to help all friends, family and loved ones keep track of the updates on his condition.

This site is also a place where we are posting photos/good times in support of Danial and his family to let them all know that they are in our thoughts and prayers.

Russian Parliament Proposes Polygamy

2006-01-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

Russian Parliament says WHAT?

MosNews -

Deputy speaker of the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, has called the idea to introduce polygamy in Chechnya "absolutely right" and proposed to spread it for the whole Russia.

"We must welcome (this idea) and spread (polygamy) for the whole Russia because we have 10 million lonely women," Vladimir Zhirinovsky was quoted by ITAR-TASS news agency as saying.

This is definitely one of the craziest things I have seen out of the Russian government yet! I eludes me how such stordon'tdont make it into US or World news. I'll have to do more research in Russian Orthodox beliefs, but I would think that this would clash with their belief system.

The Chechen Prime Minister, RamzanKadyrov, has also called for polygamy to solve their problem in their time of war stating,

"it is necessary because we are at war and according to statistics there are 9 percent fewer men than women in the republic. It is very important for the Chechen people. The law of Shariah allows this, it does not run counter to it. Therefore, each man who can provide for four wives should do it. It should be allowed."

Read the full story here...

1 for the "Brain Bucket"

2006-01-07T05:41:00.000-08:00

Brain Bucket

Often referred to, by those I know, as the "Brain Bucket" -this one saved a soldiers life recently in Tikrit!

Helmet Protects Soldier from Sniper Fire
By U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Mark Wojciechowski
133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

FORWARD OPERATING BASE REMAGEN, TIKRIT, IRAQ, Jan. 6, 2006 Ã— For many soldiers, the new Army combat helmet is a necessary evil. It can be cumbersome when in the dining facility trying to handle a tray of food and it causes headaches and tension in the neck when worn on lengthy missions.

Snyder was standing up in the turret scanning his sector and had been waving off traffic for about 15 minutes. He recalls hearing a shot and feeling "a little jerk."

Read more here at Defend America...

UPDATE: I just wanted to thank Mudville Gazette for link this week..It's always inspiring!

The Big 2K

2006-01-02T05:23:00.000-08:00

I had to post about my 2000 hits on my Blog!!!
I missed my 1000 hits while I was still on vacation in early November, but in just 2 months I have had 1000 hits! I do understand that this is small beans for some, but it was a much longer road to my first thousand and that just means that my readers have increased. I don't aim to be a top blogger or anything, but it is cool to see that others find my site interesting in one way or another.

For the most part my blog is for friends & family and some type of creative outlet for me while I'm working in the sandbox (Iraq). I was never good in English and never cared for writing, but I must admit I never imagined that something like a blog would be filling my free time.

Despite all my typos and grammatical errors I appreciate all those that visit me to see what's up on a daily, weekly and/or monthly basis! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

What Will Be Your Resolution?

2005-12-30T09:22:00.000-08:00

Personally, I am not all that big on new years resolutions. I do however plan on focusing on time management! Sometimes things get hectic at work over here and its difficult to prioritize. I want to start planning my day and managing time better. It seems like there is always so much to do that I just try to tackle whatever possible, whenever possible.

There really aren't enough hours in the day, even a 12+ hour one! I think that with better planning and actually setting aside time for the things that I need to be doing, Ergo: reading up on policies, procedures, planning out jobs fully and personal study work improvement, things should be able to be accomplished more smoothly.

Having more order in the day should also help with getting out of the office and away from work on time. This would result in more time to organize and accomplish my personal ambitions, like getting to the gym and improving my sparse Russian. Who knows? It may even give me some time to relax and catch some extra, but much needed, rest!

Maybe this resolution will work out. I sure could use more hours in the day though! I hope everyone has a Happy New Year and remember the Soldiers and those over here supporting them in the New Year!

Camo-Net Christmas -Taji Iraq

2005-12-25T07:04:00.000-08:00

Taji Xmas Tree

We did our best to celebrate Christmas here in Al Taji this year! This was our Camo-Net Christmas Tree! "When in Iraq -Improvise!" and improvise we did. Best wishes to all those back home and around the world! Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

UPDATE: A BIG MERRY CHRISTMAS TO MRS GREYHAWK @ THE MUDVILLE GAZETTE FOR THE LINK!!!

Explosive Ordnance Disposal -Taji Iraq

2005-12-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

Ordnance Disposal

by Staff Sgt. Kevin Bromley

December 21, 2005

Explosive ordnance disposal technicians detonated the last seven, 1,000 pound bombs in Taji, Dec. 16. 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division was tasked with management of the Taji Ammo Dump, known as Area Echo, and worked with Iraqi contractors and explosive ordnance disposal teams to clear the compound of all munitions. Nearly 20,000 tons of weapons and munitions were destroyed in Area Echo and the removal of these munitions was a significant task that added to the safety of Coalition forces and the Iraqi people.

One Fine Day

2005-12-16T10:13:00.000-08:00

Fine day in Egypt

This week has been a "Ground Hog Day" to the extent that I have been so wrapped up in work day in and day out that it seems the week will never end. The days have changed but each day of work has repeated itself over and over.

I was taking a moment this evening to look back at 6 weeks ago when I was on vacation. I found this photo that I decided to post because it reminds me that in another 6-8 weeks I will be free again. Free of the confines of living and working on a military instillation in the middle of a war ridden country where every day is work, eat, sleep, with what seems like no end.

Today was a fine day, (tongue in cheek!) as if things couldn't be better, it rained! Most people would expect for rain to be a good thing in the desert, but IT'S NOT! The dust and dirt here becomes extremely sticky and the next thing you know its everywhere! I really wanted to get some photos of the new rainfall, but my little Canon Digital Elph isn't quite set up for super high speed/wet environment shots! Instead, I decided to think about places I would like to be...

I have no clue why another desert popped into my head! Maybe it was just a cleaner, dryer place than here at the moment. My thoughts should really be on my next vacation. This will be the end of year 2 coming up and I have 3+ weeks to plan for. I just hope it begins to warm up in February. I do like the cold, but if its going to be cold it might as well snow. The slush and ice back home in Houston are not fun to deal with!

OVER THERE

2005-12-09T11:55:00.000-08:00

Over There

I was recently introduced to a new TV show that was on this past season. The series is called OVER*THERE. It's about the life of soldiers in Iraq. The series follows a platoon in 3rd ID short for Third Infantry Division. 3rd ID is currently deployed in Iraq as I speak and have been here since the Stryker Brigade rotated out this past year. -(As far as I know)

I have been in several parts of Iraq in the past 2 years and to my knowledge I have seen the 101st Airborne Division rotate out as they were replaced by Stryker and then they were replaced by 3rd ID who is now rotating out. I'm no expert on what groups/divisions etc are or have been here, but this is what I have seen.

In my honest opinion this show is the most accurate depiction of what soldiers go through day to day while they are deployed to Iraq. I have been here, I have seen some of what they have seen and plenty of pictures and video that the public has never seen. I hear the stories and see some of them unfold before my very eyes. I can honestly say that I don't believe the events depicted in OVER*THERE to be far from the truth!

I haven't seen such a true depiction since Gunner Palace! I was informed just as I learned about the series OVER*THERE that it has been cancelled. I heard that "they" said it was to controversial. Well, I have news for "they"! Since when do we censor or television like China? We can air the beheading of civilian Americans on National TV, but we can't run a show that happens to of hit the nail on the head when it comes to what our men and women are going through over here daily!

I back this series 100%. I don't know what another season could bring, maybe they would stray from the current path, but maybe they wont! Either way I think the show deserves a chance! I have heard of a petition to get the show back on, but I haven't had the time to do any online research yet. If anyone does know about this, please leave comments with links/addresses and I will update the information here for other readers. I will post whatever I may find out as well.

Weapons of the Past

2005-12-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

Blue Sky Dirty Tank

It's always interesting here to see things that many could only catch a glimpse of at a old war museum. Here in Iraq the weapons of forgotten wars find their resting place. Many are even cannibalized for the repair and maintenance of the aged Iraqi forces still operational armaments. I don't know the history of these military vehicles that well, but from what I hear most of this stuff came out of Russia from the second World War! Talk about a time warp!

1st Camel Spider I Saw in Iraq

2005-11-29T07:02:00.000-08:00

Camel Spider

One night at about 2 AM I was spending some leisure time with friends after a long hard day. This bugger caught my eye as it scurried back and forth across a sidewalk in the dimly lit area. I grabbed a friends flashlight, zeroed in and popped him on the head with flat of my foot. I was wearing shoes of course! I didn't want to annihilate it and got him just good enough to make him stop moving, for ever! We decided to take the picture like this to show relevant size etc.

*UPDATE* -Another big "THANK YOU!" to Mrs. Greyhawk of Mudville Gazette -Dawn Patrol for linking!

Iraq Sunset Taji

2005-11-28T10:47:00.000-08:00

Taji Iraq Sunset

Clouds are a rare site in central Iraq. As the weather gets cooler and the days shorter, breathtaking moments sometimes reveal themselves. This was the sunset today and worth taking a moment to remember there are beautiful things in the world even in the dirt pits of Iraq.

*UPDATE* -A big "THANK YOU!" to Mrs. Greyhawk of Mudville Gazette -Dawn Patrol for the linkage!

Christmas Shopping from Iraq

2005-11-26T21:48:00.000-08:00

Last night I did some Christmas shopping. I must say that Newegg is my one stop shop for computers, cameras and electronics and they also ship to APO! I haven't a clue about what I am going to buy for family yet, but there were a few things that I bought for myself. That sounds bad, but when you are over here for a few years you don't spend the much time with people to know what it is they may need or like. I am not very good at shopping for others until I get some type of a creative streak or run across some unique items. I guess I need to do some more looking around. It's just a bit difficult to window shop in Iraq unless you settle for "Microsoft Windows" shopping... heh.

The most important gift to me is time spent with others. Being away from home for so long really teaches you to value the time that you spend with family and friends. Personally, the best gift to be given or received is time. I don't say that to be cheap. I am much more likely to spend money on someone else rather than on myself. To buy something for myself I evaluate it over time and really have to justify it to myself. When it comes to others, if its something they want (within some reason) their happiness is justification enough.

Now I just have to wait for some answers on requests for gift ideas from a few people. Then I can surf like mad trying to find something I would like to fill the wish with! Thank goodness for Newegg.com, Amazon.com, Oldnavy.com and Walmart.com and all the others not mentioned. On that note, thank goodness for American Express... LOL!

Iraq -Thanksgiving OIF III

2005-11-25T05:39:00.000-08:00

OIF III Cake

Another beautiful work by soldiers in Iraq. I only wish these would have been made with real cake instead of on Styrofoam. They were making me HUNGRY!!!

Iraq - Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

Iraq Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving, to family, friends and loved ones back home, from all of us in Iraq! I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! I think todays Thanksgiving meal was one of the best I have had in theater! Today was a cheerful day for soldiers and contractors alike.

Internal Struggle

2005-11-20T11:35:00.000-08:00

For almost the past two years I have worked here in Iraq. I believe that I will continue my work here for some time. Although, it does seem that this year I have begun to create my own new problems. Due to relationships outside of work & Iraq each time I take a vacation it becomes more and more difficult to return.

I have goals and plans. I have set certain goals, up to a year at a time and continue to meet them, but as time moves on these goals become increasingly difficult to attain. With each passing quarter of the year I find myself asking, "how much longer can I keep this up? How much longer can I work in a war zone, and how much longer can I live without the freedom that I am here supporting?"

Due to conditions in Iraq, we don't have the freedom that we all take for granted back home. It's not as if you can just go for a drive when you get stressed out or go out to dinner or to a movie for the weekend. You can't be with those that you love or want to be with, unless you are lucky enough to be married and have your wife working on the same base. It's difficult sometimes to work more than twice what the normal person in the states works every week. People probably don't realize that the work that we do here in just one year is more hours worked than people back home work in two.

Don't get me wrong, there are wonderful benefits to working over seas and it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life, but in this environment it begins to eat away at you over time. I think I would have to say that if it were not for the people that I work with it just may not be worth it sometimes. When it comes to working here, the people make all the difference. I still believe that I will be in Iraq for quite awhile longer, but with each passing day I eagerly look forward to my next vacation!

Egyptian Sunset

2005-11-16T22:52:00.000-08:00

Egyptian Sunset

This was the evening that concluded the desert safari. It was a peaceful way to end the enjoyable ride across the dessert and set the mood for some interesting evening entertainment before the long ride back.

Sphinx Ruins

2005-11-15T07:47:00.000-08:00

Hangin Out

Fun with Camels

2005-11-14T05:35:00.000-08:00

Drink up!

This guy had quite the talent for accepting a water bottle, drinking it down and spitting the bottle out on the ground. Luckily, this was the only camel spitting that occurred.

2005-11-14T05:34:00.000-08:00

Safari Camels

One day we took a "Moto-Safari" across the desert. 4-Wheelin' in Egypt was a good time. The evening stop for dinner had camel riding and a little tour of how people in the Egyptian desert live and survive.

More from Egypt

2005-11-14T03:02:00.000-08:00

Sphinx & Khafre's Pyramid

Visiting the Sphinx was fun. There were fewer peddlers and enough time to walk around and visit the ruins casually.

Pyramid Perils

2005-11-13T05:40:00.000-08:00

Khufu Pyramid

The pyramids are quite a site, but this was the most annoying part of my trip. The locals here were like flies to honey! We basically spent our time running around this pyramid and away from the peddlers, it was extremely annoying! I only wanted to take in the sheer magnitude and amazement of these wondrous structures. Again this tour was extremely rushed.

The first peddler that approached us piled on souvenirs and continued to state they were gifts only to then demand money and that we were happy. As we ran from other peddlers, now having all the cheap souvenirs we could possibly need, the next instances came from the Tourist Police themselves. These guys will offer to take your picture, with your camera, and then ask for payment and they are expecting 20-50 Egyptian pounds/4-10 USD just to click a button that they offered to do.

My last straw came when a young boy with a camel insisted that we take a picture with him and his camel. We only wanted to be left alone at this point, but it seemed the only way out was to appease the boy by taking a picture. Of course money was again expected and to top it off another guy walks up and states that it is his camel and we must pay him also. At this point I had enough, I threw some Egyptian pounds at them and took off. The young boy caught up to me on the camel and said, "Are you no happy sir? You must be happy or it is bad luck for us!" to this I stated, "I'll be happy when you go away!"

Don't take me wrong, I am not the type of person that gets upset easily at all, I actually tend to be very passive. This constant badgering on My Vacation from none other than Iraq tipped me over the edge on tolerance. I have my photos and my memories to reflect on, but it certainly had its unpleasant moments.

Egyptian Museum

2005-11-13T05:10:00.000-08:00

Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian museum was quite an interesting place! This place is cram packed with artifacts and sarcophagi, tablets and statues. Unfortunately, no pictures are allowed inside. I guess they want to keep people coming so they keep paying. The downside was the fact that the tour was so rushed. There was a little time at the end to go exploring for yourself, but for the most part if I ever visit again I would buy a ticket and explore for hours on my own. Maybe buy a little pamphlet/book guide and skip the guided tour all together.

Back in Action

2005-11-12T23:36:00.000-08:00

Vacation is over and things will be getting back to normal. I attempted to post from Dubai, but was unable to update from the hotel's network. Here I am back in the Dust bowl of Iraq after the ancient ruins of Egypt, the rainy weather of Dublin, Ireland and the Humidity of Houston. I only had 4 days at home and slept in my own bed for 1 whole night. I normally wouldn't make a trip all the way back to the states for only 4 days, but my cousin was getting married, so that was the purpose of my trip. It was nice to be home though, and I hope to have more time on my next trip in '06. Pictures from Egypt to follow...

Travel Update

2005-11-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

Well, I survived my trip to Egypt during Ramadan and managed to have a pretty wonderful time. I will write more on my opinions of Egypt and what has come of the once great pyramids and tombs of ancient Egypt in the coming days. I have tons of pictures of which I will post a few. I made a stop in Dublin, Ireland as well and will have to share some tales of Halloween in the land of the Leprechans. More to come in a few days, once I have a rest back in Texas, if at all possible...

On the Road Again

2005-10-22T04:14:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone! As I said, if I could get to an internet connection, I will post whenever possible. So here I am again on the road, or between flights, stopping in at a cafe' to get my internet fix. It's times like these that I think of the movie The Beach and how familiar so many scenes from that movie are to me. In the past 2 years I have found myself traveling to many countries around the world and my only means of viable communication have been checking email when the opportunity presents itself. It's strange because as a kid growing up I never had money, going to a movie was an expense for a birthday and not a common weekend event. Truthfully, growing up I never even imagined leaving the southern US, much less traveling to other countries. If it were not for a very good friend of mine about 4-5 years ago that worked for an airline I don't know if I would have ever left America. Because of his job I was able to fly virtually free and traveled to Mexico and Amsterdam. Without the experiences of these trips I do not believe that I would have ever considered working overseas. I truly count myself fortunate! It never gets dull and I always step back in amazement of the things I get to see and the places I visit. I count myself blessed and it all started with a friend that opened my eyes to the world! Thanks Jerry!

Vacation Grind

2005-10-18T12:19:00.000-07:00

Alert! Casper is going on vacation!!!

Unfortunately, I do not have a guest poster for my blog for the next 22 days... I will be traveling A LOT and will not have a chance to post until at least Nov 3rd and will not be able to get back to normal posting until Nov. 9 or 10. I hope that those who have been visiting me as of late will mark me down and again return once I do. I promise to have some interesting stories and nice photos to share!

The past few days have been the vacation grind and I can not even begin to explain all the problems I have had to sort through and the mass travel alterations that have transpired. Not to mention all the wrapping up that it takes at work, so not to leave anything hanging, making sure that all the loose ends are tied. I have had long days and sleepless nights for a full week and it all makes the relaxing days of vacation all that much more worth while!

See everyone in about 3 weeks!!! "Good golf, good tennis, or whatever makes you happy!" (Marvin Zindler - 13 News Houston) LOL! :)

Sometimes It Snows - Even in Iraq

2005-10-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

Iraq snow sunset

As unlikely as it may seem for a place that spends its days at 120F+ for the majority of the year, sometimes it snows. For the first time I will spend an Iraqi winter in central Iraq. I don't think it snows here but it does in the North. Either way, just as it cools down, the weather turns from desert heat to wet, slushy, mud up to your knees. Most places in Iraq don't have sand as you would expect. People generally hear sand and they think of the type you find at the beach, oh how nice that would be. Instead, in Iraq the ground is covered with a powder like dirt & dust that gets everywhere and turns to sticky mud at the first signs of moisture. Once it's wet you can grow an extra foot from just walking 10 ft. as the mud builds up on your boots until you can barely lift your feet.

THANK YOU! to Mrs. Greyhawk of Mudville Gazette -Dawn Patrol for the link!

Mosul Iraq -Ruins

2005-10-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

AHA

These are some of the Ruins in Mosul that appear to be somewhat ancient! This place had a very different feel, like stepping back into time. An Easter service was held here last year and it was an incredible! Definitely noteworthy in my book and a peaceful little slice of Iraq that could take you away and make you forget you were in the middle of a war zone.

What NO Looters Prefer -Part 2

2005-10-13T02:43:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Checklist

Hurricane Katrina Survival Kit:

Mustard.............................................check
Cheetos..............................................check
Toilet Paper........................................check
Bud Light...........................................check
Keystone Ice.......................................check
Budweiser..........................................check
Red Dog.............................................check
Misc. other bottles of alcohol..............check
Piece of plywood or door to float your chick and booze on...check

Next time let's all be a little more prepared.

I received this in email today, and decided it was a good follow up to my post... What NO Looters Prefer I don't mean to rag on people from the south, because I am from the south, but when there are pictures to prove what some folks hold as important for survival, it's just plain funny. Like its so often said, "If you can't laugh at yourself!"

Humanitarian or Soldier?

2005-10-12T21:53:00.000-07:00

It struck me quite interesting today that soldiers in Pakistan were willing to put aside their differences, or that of their leaders, and render aid to the enemy. The following statement is from BBC News.

"The Pakistani soldiers invited the Indians to help them rebuild some of their bunkers after sleeping in the open in increasingly cold temperatures." -BBC News

Apparently the differences in Kashmir are that of the extremists and the majority of the people can see past these ideas in this time of crisis. One can only hope that they will see that the war is also a crises and that the people, as a majority, can change the situation and not return to fighting.

Mosul, Iraq -Black Hawk Style!

2005-10-11T13:43:00.000-07:00

Flying High

This was one of many flights that I have taken over various cities in Iraq that wane form peaceful to hostile territories with every passing minute. I must admit, it has been quite an adventure and it hasn't ended yet.

I want to take a moment to thank all the visitors/commenters/trackbacks & linkers as my counter hits a monumental 400 visits! I started all this not knowing if I would ever have visitors. What I view as success and my current place in the Blogosphere, has shown me that something as simple as my blog can become more than I ever expected.

A big THANK YOU! to Mrs. Greyhawk of Mudville Gazette -Dawn Patrol for linkage!

The Carnival is in Town, Yeah!

2005-10-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Dave over at Dave's Not Here is hosting the New Blog Showcase Carnival!

This is a collection of new blogs within the past few months.
Dave says, "Welcome to the October 10th, 2005 edition of the New Blog Showcase Carnival! The New Blog Showcase Carnival is intended to bring the blogs of the blogosphere's newest bloggers into the spotlight!"-Dave

On a side note, ya just might find mention of Casper's Calamity....SUPER SWEET, YES! WHooHoo!
-I'm not excited or anything...LOL!

Hope to see everyone there, bet I can ride more rides without throwing up than anyone!

Final Victory!

2005-10-10T04:37:00.000-07:00

This is a test of the emergency trackback system. If you believe you have reached this message in error, please place a trackback on this blog...

The auto installer couldn't do it... I couldn't do it (not even with the -less than detailed- instructions on Haloscan) ...nor my tinkering. But Dave of - Dave's Not Here- did it!!! Dave is a typepad user, not blogger/blogspoter and was able to decode what was needed and necessary and put it in all the right places for me.

I was about to give up all together, thanks Dave!

Just Work Haloscan!!!

2005-10-10T02:54:00.000-07:00

I hope that the Third time is the charm... If this doesn't work I will have to take back my previous post stating how easy it was to have Haloscan "automagically" post its scripts to my template and it just work! I can only hope that no one else is having such an issue.

Well... No Dice! I must officially state that after having HaloScan add its scripts to my site "3" times, it has now failed to hold for some reason unknown to me!!! Resorting back to manual manipulation...lol

Got Trackback?

2005-10-10T02:21:00.000-07:00

Today I made some changes at Casper's Calamity, I signed up with Haloscan for FREE trackback services! If you use Blogger/Blogspot this is the simplest service you will ever add to your Blog! They have an automated system that even inserts the code for Blogger/Blogspot users. I happen to enjoy editing my own code from time to time, but when I did it and previewed I was getting a little white hash at the top of all my posts... so I cleared my changes and decided to let them do it. It worked the first time. Now I just wonder about all my old comments.....hmm, well plenty of room for new ones now!

Haloscan commenting and trackback have been added to this blog.

OK, Houston... we have a Problem! The next time I edit my blog its GONE! Working the issue now.

Heart of an Angel

2005-10-08T12:46:00.000-07:00

Today was an extremely stressful day for me. Without digging to far into my personal life, I would just have to say that unless there is some light at this end of tomorrow's tunnel I'm seriously going to bash my head into a stone wall until I knock myself unconscious.

This is how I felt at the end of my day, until I visited some of the sites on my blogroll. When out of nowhere an act of kindness just blew me away! I was so tense and all of a sudden I wanted to cry. Now all the tension has gone and I can get some sleep. Thanks Princess & Goddess!

Brilliant Bloggers

2005-10-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

Cheers! to The Order of Brilliant Bloggers for their hard work and wonderful content! I must admit I enjoyed the nominees as well as the winners on this Blog site.

TOBB -posts "The Best of" Comedy, Serious, Historic, Political etc. even Photo!
Stop on by and give them a look, I'm sure anyone can find something of interest with so many great site links.

Who knows maybe I will get a nomination for my Teaching Iraq! post for the month of October...hehe

Humor in the Blogosphere

2005-10-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

Congratulates to Jenn of My Delusional Reality on here nomination by Order of Brilliant Bloggers for "Best Comedic Post and Blogsite." Being from the Houston area I found her post quite funny! Definitely worthy of a Linkage!

Teaching Iraq!

2005-10-05T23:38:00.000-07:00

Iraqi Redneck!

I thought I would share this, it gave me a good laugh. Not sure if they picked up this sort of thing from some of the Southern "Good 'Ol Boys" that work here in Iraq or if they have always had these tendencies. Either way it's just funny! It just goes to show, anywhere you go, people are going to find a way to "Get 'er Done!" whether they have the right tool for the job or not!

Blog Recovery!

2005-10-04T23:23:00.000-07:00

Finally, I somehow recovered my very first blog from Yahoo! 360. I was a bit upset for awhile because when I began my migration to Blogger I could not access my first post. I don't know what the problem was but it just seemed to be MIA. For some odd reason, today I went into 360 and discovered that my first post was again visible. I have now back posted it to blogger and feel complete. It's an interesting little snippet where I attempt to excuse myself of grammatical follies with a quirky tale from my past.

Where's Waldo?

2005-10-01T01:48:00.000-07:00

Anyone Missing a Camel?

I haven't the energy to blog anything that takes thought, but this could be amusing!
If you find Waldo let me know. I just thought this was interesting and would work well for a "one of these things is not like the other," or "Where's Waldo" type picture. I hope I at least made someone look!

Baghdad Boys!

2005-09-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

Me and the Crew!

This is a small portion of the crew I worked with in Baghdad! An exceptional bunch and some of the best people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. There are some important people missing in this photo, but we stayed so busy, there was never time to get more than a handful together for a shot.

Where Do You Want To Go Today?

2005-09-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

BIAP

Baghdad International Airport - As R&R rolls near this will be a welcome sign! As bad as it looks, it brings joy, it is the corridor to the short lived escape from the place so many now call home.

Call me a Republican... But?

2005-09-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

FAHRENHYPE9/11

I just finished watching FahrenHYPE9/11 and it amazed me how so many Democrats could look past their parties' bias and speak out in support of President Bush and disgust for Michael Moore! Finally, people are looking to the bigger picture! It doesn't matter if you are Democrat, Republican or Libertarian, we are all in this together! We are all targets! We are no different because we are all Americans. In this we must realize that we are all the same and put aside our differences for a global call of Freedom.

Anyone that watched Michael Moore's movie, should at least give this movie and those that he USED in his film the opportunity to present the truth and defend themselves first hand. Watch and judge for yourself!

I was not sure in my previous post on what Saddam was required to do by the UN and now I know that he was to disarm. So someone explain to me the photo I posted below!

WMD's... NOT?

2005-09-25T06:03:00.000-07:00

WMD... NOT?

I don't know about you... But, should something have to be Nuclear to be a weapon of mass destruction? What about tons upon tons of missiles etc. that together can produce mass destruction? Things like this boggle me. So we didn't find the WMD's, but wasn't Saddam supposed to have disarmed? I haven't read up on what was mandated of him lately, but I believe these are some big boy toys that he was not supposed to have. Of course the news stations don't report on things like this, they just concentrate on the small fact that makes them right!

I firmly believe that Saddam had WMD's, just because you can't find/see it doesn't mean it doesn't exist: Ergo -The Wind! I do know that there are single cell dehydrators here and have been told that the only use for them is Anthrax, but that's not my department. Take it as you may, but there are enough armaments here that we use Iraqi Tank/Cannon Barrels, still in the crates from Jordan, as curbs along the roads. Maybe I'll post a shot of that tomorrow...

Hurricane Rita -Disaster- Round 2!!!

2005-09-21T10:53:00.000-07:00

My Home in Jeopardy

See the Pink (Zone C - Category 4-5)!!! Well it's not so pretty... My home is just south of 225 (half way between the dot for 225 and 146) and in the PINK!!! As my family and friends prepare to leave town in the morning I sit here in Iraq where it only rains a few months out of the year and those months are still quite a ways off.

I was reading about the evacuation on Reuters. At this point I am not sure what to expect. Things do look bad though! Mayor Bill White says, "that there will not be enough government vehicles to go and evacuate people in all areas." Well, I hope they crank up all those damn school busses and give it a go anyway! Call for volunteers from the school districts -HISD, GPISD, PISD, DPISD and all the other hundreds of ISD's around Houston and while they are at it get all the Metro & Gray Hound busses out of Houston full of people as well!

What about Trains? Are these people thinking? Don't they know that Texas has more rail than any State in the U.S. I know that its almost impossible to get around in the south without your own vehicle. We don't have the mass transit of the north, but we do have a whole heck of a lot of railways. If I didn't have a way to get out, I would sit in a box car for several hours with no problem, but then again I also travel in Iraq! I'm not to far off on this one though, am I?

My biggest worry would have to be the relief/recovery effort. MTV reported on the NO evacuees and how they were being shipped and flow out to safer states. I can understand the way some of these people feel, but is that not the same attitude that got them displaced in Houston to begin with? Don't get me wrong, some had no means to get out, but many were just plain stubborn in my opinion and didn't want to get to safety. So here we go again and here they are getting upset about being moved to a safer place. What do they want to do?...Stay in Houston and see if anyone rescues them again?

Due to the enormous NO & MISS relief effort that has enthralled our nation, from where will the help come for South Texas? I hope that the rest of the nation realizes that we opened our doors and brought people in without hesitation. Now the tables have turned on those who have shown mercy and we will soon be victim! Who will come to the aid of Houston and the surrounding areas like Galveston, Clear Lake, Deer Park, LaPorte, Lake Jackson & Freeport? I only hope that our kindness in the time of need is not forgotten and that surrounding states will take action to help South Texas as we did NO & MISS. I have no clue about where the help will come from. It seems as though the efforts of FEMA have been depleted, so now where will the resources come from?

I can only hope that yet again the resourcefulness of our states and our nation will help to see us through.

Global Ruler of Eastern European Women

2005-09-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

Get your position here

Brought to me and you by Dave!

Quick Response Force -MOSUL

2005-09-20T03:31:00.000-07:00

QRF Mosul, Iraq

This was created/placed about 6 months prior to my arrival in Mosul, Iraq. This was one of the interesting things that I saw on base along the perimeter wall -pardon the profanity. This is just another example of a mark left by our guys here fighting for their lives. Due to my experiences here in Iraq it's easy to understand the attitude reflected in this tombstone, although many people that have never been here would take it the wrong way.

This type of thing is a way to blow off steam and use humor to relieve the stresses of being a high priority target for insurgents. It makes a clear statement, but should not be taken as a hatred toward Iraqis. Instead, its that of successfully abating an insurgent intrusion intended to take the lives of as many soldiers or civilian workers as possible.

A Soldiers Way Home

2005-09-19T04:10:00.000-07:00

Soldiers Remember Home

This is a classic and never dying symbol on US military basses across the world. It's a reminder of where we came from and where we one day plan to return. The first time I saw road signs of this sort was in my pre-teen years watching M.A.S.H. before bed. The 4077 MASH unit had theirs and we still have ours here in Iraq to this day. I understand that this practice may predate television all together, but non the less, it's presence acts as a daily reminder of what has been sacrificed and left behind by those whom fulfill the duty of the United States Armed Forces!

The Bear is Awake!

2005-09-18T21:21:00.000-07:00

It seems, after the past month of hibernation, The Truth Laid Bear has risen from slumber and kicked into full gear! After a month as an insignificant microbe in the TTLB Ecosystem I have jumped 6 levels and evolved into a Flippery Fish !!! This is very inspiring news! I was beginning to think that my blog would never be seen without the intervention of large enough blog-beings that are advanced enough to have their own microscope. Three cheers for the Bear!!! Glad to see your bright eyed and bushy-tailed again!!!

Women Wielding Weapons

2005-09-18T11:56:00.000-07:00

WWWSF

A tribute to the proud women that serve in our nations military!
On another note, there's also something pretty sexy about a waman that knows how to handle a weapon! Maybe I have just been living around the military for to long! I don't know, you tell me!

Parallel Parking a Tahoe

2005-09-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

As I stood talking with Dave, of Dave's Not Here, just now in the darkness of 8:50PM in Iraq... I witnessed the absolute worst job of parallel parking I have ever seen! It was almost comical as this driver, that we didn't stick around to find out the identity of, spent a good 10 minutes or more attempting to parallel park a Tahoe in a space large enough for a crew-cab/extended bed truck!

The sight of complete craziness stopped us in mid conversation as we watched the event unfold. The driver turned a simple task into a feat of at least 2 dozen turns, back & forward movements, as if attempting to create more of a rut in the concrete, rather than park a vehicle. This was the most heinous parking job I have yet witnessed.

It just goes to show that when chatting with a fellow blogger about the fact there is just nothing to blog about for the day....BAM....!!! Something stupid/yet amusing happens right there in front of you. So I am sure you will see another iteration of this story at Dave's Not Here.

My Minds Eye!

2005-09-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

My Minds Eye!

This is my eye today, weird post huh?
Well as you can see, I worked all day and after 13 hours at the office and in the dusty environment of Iraq your eyes tend to get a bit red! Besides that, its a pretty cool picture, I think!

As for those that believe the eye is the window to the soul, let me know what you can see! I just see the person that took the picture myself. Who knows, maybe there is more!

What NO Looters Prefer

2005-09-16T02:50:00.000-07:00

Heineken Preferred

I may catch some flack on this one, but I just had to post this. I had to wipe the tears from my eyes after receiving it. I don't care who you are, this is funny! I am from the south myself and even if this was about my hometown I would have to laugh. If you can't laugh at yourself...then?

The Word is Out

2005-09-15T11:24:00.000-07:00

With the way my head has been spinning at work the past few days I seem to have missed some interesting new developments... It seems that Microsoft has recently done some teaming up or collaboration with Stardock. The Galactic Patrol hit this one as it broke, as it seems he is an integral part of Gadgets over at Microsoft. These little desktop spices are nice little drag and drop onto your desktop goodies that perform all types of little functions with no install required.

All the while The Truth Laid Bear site seems to be hibernating, which may explain the difficulties with its normal tracking activities. If your Blog is signed up, check your stats/report and see if the bear is tracking you or not!

There was a plethora of linkage going on over at Dave's Not Here today, where he comments on link-whoring! He also has a stunning photo with great natural black and white contrast... I like it!

Leave it at that, sleep is calling... More pictures tomorrow! I will have to dig through my hard drive or get out at lunch and find some interesting shots.

So That's Where that missile Went!

2005-09-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

The Trash in Iraq

Just an ordinary find in Iraq. This doesn't even scratch the surface when it comes to the thousands of ordinance that are piled all over this country. Ever made a find like this in your backyard or neighborhood? Crazy stuff...

To the Bat Cave, Robin!

2005-09-13T11:43:00.000-07:00

Victory Bat House

This is a rather interesting and effective approach for the insect problems in Iraq. The closer you are to one of these babies the better off you are. Mosquitoes and flies can get pretty severe and annoying. Believe me, the flies in Iraq are brave and strong! They will fly strait into your eye, and if you blink or swat at them they will come right back, raise up your eyelid, punch you in the eye, laugh and fly away... They are brutal! I once hit a fly here with a fly swatter 3 times and he just smirked and flew off...

Hotel Kalifa -Kuwait

2005-09-12T09:15:00.000-07:00

Kalifa Pools

If not for the 130+ degree temperature and the 200% humidity in Kuwait, this would be a pretty nice place to be. Unfortunately, the bungalows are better kept on the outside than they are on the inside. The one night that I spent there I stayed up all night out by the pool. There was no way I was going to even lay on one of the filthy beds! The bathrooms were even worse... I hope I never have to travel through Kuwait again! Besides its way to expensive in Kuwait and the US Dollar won't even buy you a Coke.

911 Never Forget!

2005-09-11T11:51:00.000-07:00

Today marks another year since the tragedy that will forever mark the 11th day of September.
We have come so far and yet have so far to go! I remember that day and I think I always will. My roommate Jerry, who was a dispatcher for Continental at the time, ran into my bedroom and drug me into the living room to confirm what he had just seen when AA flight 11 struck.

It was as if things were in slow motion as we stood and watched AA flight 175 crash into the other tower. I remember questioning, "is this really happening?" as we sat in amazement and Jerry jumped on the computer to see what was going on through the live flight tracking he could do through his work website. Within seconds the streaming data was frozen and the attack became all to real. Following shortly came the reports of the Pentagon attack and the 4th plane that crashed short of its alleged target.

We cannot and should not forget the people that died that day. We carry on with our Freedom and Democracy so that they did not die in vain. No, they were not fighting a war, but we are now and if we run and hide like so many want us to, then we disgrace the memory of the innocent who died, by hiding in fear, instead of living and giving the freedom that they once enjoyed!

Be proud today to be an American! Never let the Spirit of Freedom be quenched! And most of all know that there are people dying even today because they believe in Freedom and the American way! Because they understand that what we have is worth fighting for and dying for and are not willing to let anyone take it away...

Toby USO Show in Baghdad

2005-09-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

Toby Keith USO Show

This is not a new appearance, but a photo that I had and wanted to post. I like all types of music for the most part, but I definitely give a hats off to those performers that are willing to stick their neck out, put their money where their mouth is and come to a war zone to entertain our troops! Props to you Toby! Keep it up man! This was a very emotional performance and everyone here was grateful.

"Look What I Did!"

2005-09-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

Burnin' Poo!

If I remember correctly this is was a burn pit or Black Water (aka Solid Waste Water) pond out in Tal'Afar, Iraq that was being burned. Either way, this guy was looking proud or very excited!

130F = HOT in Iraq or Anywhere!

2005-09-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

130 F- Hot in Iraq

Happily this is not the current temperature in Iraq but it was last month!
Things are cooling off here, thank goodness. Though I have become quite acclimated to this environment over the past year and a half, it's still nice when things begin to cool down into the 90's. This has been my second summer in Iraq and I am glad to see it gone just as the first.

Why Casper?

2005-09-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take a moment and explain the name Casper.
Just plain and simple it was my call sign when I was in Bagdad. It has nothing to do with the fact that I am white, nor any racial motivation. It is not derogatory, nor meant to be, for the simple fact that I gave it to myself. We all have callsigns that we use here, be it Raven, Bash, Ghost-Rider... just think of the classic movie Top Gun. They used a lot of Crazy names like Maverick, Goose and Ice-Man! Anyway, all that aside I am a pretty down to earth friendly guy and the name just suites me. Besides, it's always fun to frag people, on LAN games of Halo 2, running around with a name like Casper! So that's the story, silly as it may be, and I really don't think about it much until someone new sees something on my desk etc. and says, "Casper?" Then I realize that everyone associates the name with the ghost. But I really like the name myself and rarely even think of the cartoon character.

Freedom to Do!

2005-09-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

I spoke with my cousin back in Texas tonight and he told me about a friends blog.
His blog is a nice photo history of time off and the things that the freedom of the U.S. allows us to enjoy! From tubing down the river to fishing and 4-wheelin' he has lots of pictures of good times! Stop on by and check him out at Back In Texas!!

Speaking of Freedom! I also stumbled upon another new blogger like myself that recently commented on Corey's post of a (photo-shopped I'm sure) Picture of President Bush fishing in New Orleans on the flooded streets. Nikky over at Don't Head West! is a more outspoken person than I, but she has some very interesting posts here of late. I don't have all that many readers but I found some of her stuff interesting and wanted to pass it along.

Friends of Americans Shop

2005-09-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

Friends of Americans Shop

This is a shop in Mosul, Iraq -off post. Not exactly the safest place to stop into, due to the fact that it sits on the road that runs right into this quite hostile town. I used to drive by this all the time but I never slowed to much less than 80-100Mph on this road! In truth the owner of this shop and many more on post like it were very happy for the U.S. presence and grateful for all we are doing here.

Beauty in Eastern Ukraine

2005-09-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

Oksana's Church in Ukraine

First I must apologize because I don't know the name of this beautiful church. It wasn't exactly written out anywhere that I could see, like the giant marquees we use in the states to advertise the names of churches.

I was not with Oksana when I took this Photo and so I did not ask what it was called.
All of that aside, this is just one of so many beautiful churches/cathedrals in Ukraine!
Unknowingly I posted this and then stumbled upon a cathedral picture posted at Dave's Not Here, and I must admit my photo pales in comparison to the Se' Cathedral. That is why I am a beginner and still a grunt in the world of blogging, but time goes on and I will be digging into some more of my photos from here in Iraq very soon!

Luxury Hotels of the Middle East

2005-09-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

Al Buston Rotanna

This is just one of the extremely nice hotels that I have had the pleasure of staying in the Middle East. I wish it were a better picture, but you can still see the size of the lobby and the fountain, Gazebo/w baby-grand piano etc. This is a 5 star Hotel and only one of many in the wealthy city of Dubai!

Baghdad & Astro-Turf?

2005-09-08T09:37:00.000-07:00

Inside Baghdad International Airport (BIAP)

Yes, this is the inside of Baghdad International and that is none other than Astro-Turf on the floor! Kind of crazy, leather (pleather) seats with nice high backs and ball field floors...hehe.
Leave it to the Whacky Iraqis!

Don't Loose Your Head!

2005-09-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

Pardon the Sun... Oh and your head if you plan to keep it!

It just goes with the territory and adds to the collection of priceless memories, when you go "Tank Tag-in" on a sunny Iraqi afternoon!

Peaceful Afternoon

2005-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

Train Station Square -Kharkov, Ukraine

This was a nice afternoon that I spent walking in Kharkov a few months ago!
The central train station is a beautiful place... also where I was asked for a smoke and offered a sip of the guys beer. Yes, people walk the streets with open bottles, its very common and normal to drink beer or alcohol when and where you please!

Hurricane Katrina's Aftermath

2005-09-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

Awesome Photo Stream from Hurricane Katina posted on Flickr by Slight Clutter. See all sets here.

Katrina Survivors in Houston

Guest Book -But its a Map

2005-09-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

My New Guest Book -er Map!
Look for My Guest Map in the sidebar and place your ScreenName/Comment/Choosable Icon exactly where you live etc! You can get as close as your backyard or rooftop if you like, all thanks to Google Earth!!!

Orange Day in Iraq (Last Sandstorm)

2005-09-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

Orange Day in Iraq

This is an unedited picture I took! It was actually this Orange due to the sandstorm that day.

Unexpected Response!

2005-09-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

This is a post from Yahoo! 360... I comented on the "Michael Moore" Letter to President Bush!
that PureVizhun posted.

This was my comment...

"First of all I cant believe that you post that TOTAL BULL SH*T on you blog!!! Just to let you know, if it were not for men and women like those in Iraq today, that fought and died in the past wars of our nation, people like you and Micheal F*inMoore wouldn't have the freedom to speak the things you do or post the things you do!! Instead, you would be murdered just like all the inocent people of Iraq that tried to speak out against Sadam. So I regret to inform you to just keep it up and one day maybe those like Mr. Moore and those that support him will be lucky enough to meet the same bloody end due to the tyrany brought about by the crap that they shovel!"

Saturday, Sep 3, 2005 - 09:35am (PDT)

To my amazement this was the unexpected repy. Just to note, the circumstances were unknown as there were no personal comments when she posted the letter.
(I am posting it here because users without Yahoo! accounts will not be able to view her blog)
September 03, 2005

I felt the need to delete my initial post and I will explain my reasons in a moment. First however I want to apologize to Casper who commented. I could'nt agree with you more on a few remarks and the others I will also address shortly. My intention of concerning Michael Moores letter was to address some of the issues brought up in it. At the risk of My intentions towards Michale Moores letter was to address some of the issues brought up. Unfortunately and without consideration of the effects his letter would have without comment I unintentionally fell asleep at my computer. Something I frequently do. I apologize for my y insensitivity to those carelessness. .

I am however thankful for your post Casper. Shocking, you might think that, but then again you don t know me so a little background might be in order first.

PS CASPER in case you ventured back to catch my response and stuck through my rambles of life I will address the michale moore issue and hope you return. Stay Safe, and Thank You,

MY FOLLOW UP TODAY!
I think I need to appologize and clarify my post!
First, I was extremely tired as well when I posted my comment.
I had just finished a 14 hr. work day and my words were a reaction to reading the Michael Moore letter! I should have previewed my comment and read it before posting. I didn't mean for it to come off quite like that, I am just fed up with Micheal Moore, his B.S. and people like Mrs. Sheehan that disgrace the sacrifice of those that have died for our freedom and in Mrs. Shehan's case a son that died voluntering to take action above and beyond his duties for what he belived in!

I was not careful with my words, as I should have been! At the time I fully believed that the post was in support of Mr. Moore and promotion of his propoganda. I thank you for your words and understanding and have posted you reply to my public blog, http://casperx.blogspot.com where I will update with my comments as well.

Proud to be a Houstonian -Even when Officials Get in the Way!

2005-09-02T02:27:00.000-07:00

Reliant Astrodome -X-Home of the Astros now a Shelter

The following is a excerpt from a member of a web group from my home town, basically Houston!

I am still watching the news...What seems to have happened is that the officials who closed the dome, which they did...I heard it with my own ears...They are now saying that they Did NOT close the dome, and only wanted some time to re-evaluate whether they have any more room, enough food, enough clothes, etc.. They have started processing the long line of busses..I have to hand it to Dave Ward and Gena Gaston....They have called it like it is, and probably hacked off some "authorities" for out and out telling it like it is and asking the right questions... People are showing up at the dome and offering to take people home with them..A local Pastor is there, the residents of Houston are letting it be known that THEY WANT ANSWERS and they want these people taken care of and tended too...It is awesome, incredible and encouraging... Students from Baylor College of Medicine are out there in their scrubs...One of them just said " It's time to close the rule book and just help these people"... They just counted 108 busses full of people...They are not sure if more are coming... I am really proud of Dave Ward/Anchor...He just said, "even if these people have to sit in the stands/seats, get them in, and take care of them because it is much much better than where they have come from"... Ok, I just wanted to update for those who are night owls that might not be watching your TV... Keep praying... !!!!! Frances D.

How to Spend Over 3 Grand on Flights for a 15 Day Vacation!

2005-09-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

My Air Taxi

Yes, I did say over $3,000.00 on Airfair!!!
I can't believe it, I will be going on my next R&R in a few short months and I will be making a few scheduled & a few unavoidable stops.

I will be going from Dubai to the Ukraine to see Oksana, this will be the first leg of my journey.
After 7 days in the Ukraine I will be flying to Dublin Ireland ,by way of Frankfurt Germany, to party for All Hallows Eve and Halloween! I spend just three days in Dublin and then on home to Houston by way of London. After a short five days I will be headed back through London and back to Dubai.

I had planned for this trip to occur over 22 days, but my hopes were dashed and my plans ripped to sunder due to a new enforcement of "policy" that the company has now decided to enforce just in time for my next vacation! :(

I will still be making the trip, but with reduced stays at each location. That really should make the airfare cheaper! It's just not right that I have to pay the same for the flights for less days... Just sucks! Now that I am done ranting I will begin to pray that nothing happens on my departure day from Iraq! The last thing I wish to do is eat that money and miss the flight!

A Blog Migration

2005-08-30T03:08:00.000-07:00

Bryan & Oksana July '05

This is my first post to my new blog. I will be backposting from my former site http://360.yahoo.com/oblivionX I recently realized that 360 is not going to give me the tracking features that I want nor will it allow my blog to be viewed by those that do not have a Yahoo! account. Slowly but surely I will be migrating my blog here to CasperX, please stop by and feel free to comment. I also like the ablility to have some type of customized style and color to the format of the site, let me know your thoughts etc.

All Good Things Come to an End...

2005-08-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Today I finish my packing and move to a new base.

This will be the last time that I work with the IT department that I have grown to love.
Allthough all the packing and shipping will be a hassle, the hardest part will be leaving the team that I depend on. This team can work miracles. Working on this team in Iraq has led me to believe that difficult is done daily and the impossible just takes a little more time!

The new IT team I will be joining is a capable bunch as well, but I will miss the relationships and all the good times that I had with my old team. I hope that I don't loose touch with any of them and who knows, our paths could cross again in Iraq or anywhere in the world. It is a small world!

There will be more to come, but for now I have to pack and get ready for the move!

Google Talk! Secrets

2005-08-25T00:44:00.000-07:00

An awsome write up on Google Talk Secrets that I found this morning! See more here...

MediaMan is the Delicious Library(Mac Only) for Windows

2005-08-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

Gotta try this out tomorrow myself!

Check it out here!!!

Make XP look like Windows Vista! (now)

2005-08-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

No new software like windows blinds or StyleXP... its a shell install... also replaces the Icons with Vista Icons etc. Just download, install and reboot and your system!

Google Talk!

2005-08-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Amaziing Easter Egg! See more!

Sadam's Big Guns

2005-08-24T08:14:00.000-07:00

Iraqi Tanks

These are part of the heavy artillery Sadam once possesed!
Now just a photo op and graffiti haven!

Stupid Tired

2005-08-23T10:24:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had the feeling when your not just tiered, but you are just flat out Stupid Tired???

Well today was a very long day that I will have to elaborate on later, as of now I have been at it for 17 hours and I almost passed out on my laptop until I was IM'ed by a friend a minute ago.

I have to try to get to my hooch or I will be sleeping in the office tonight!
Take care all and I'll update about my extremely crazy, bussy, long day tomorrow!!!

Stupid Tired (cont.)
I started my day at 5:30am and was met with delays all morning waiting on a chopper. That steatched out the morning quite a bit. I wound up making a mad dash for Taco Bell for some folks at the base of destination, if the bird would ever arrive. I know this sounds funny but this base has a Taco Bell and the one I was headed to doesnt... I picked up $75 worth of Taco Bell... and that is a hell of a lot of Tacos/Barritos!! Loaded it in my backpack and headed back for the flight line.

I sat there for about an hour and a half with six soldiers in the direct sun, 120+ degrees on hot concrete. It seemed like forever! Finally, the birds arrived and things picked up a bit. Once I arrived at Liberty I made my delivery of Taco Bell and was off to pick up a Dell Power Edge Server that I had to take back with me. This 8u beast was a bit heavy and hard to grip on the bubble rap and tape. I took some time to gather some of my personal electonics to fill my pack for the trip back and prepared to return.

So there I was waiting for choppers again wearing 40 lbs of body armor a 40 lb. pack and a 60+ lb. server. Then I had to walk through 50 yards of river rocks, almost the size of footballs, with all this crap out to the helo-pad. When I finally made it to the chopper there was no floor room and I had to lift the server, still standing on the ground, over some seats and down into the chopper. This proved even more difficult to remove upon arrival.

Finally, I made it back but only made it with the server about 80 yards and the strain of pulling out the server etc took its toll. My arms blew out. It was like lifting weights untill you cant even pick up 5 lbs. I had the bus driver come pick up the server and carry it to the bus, after quickly informing him that it weighed about what he did and was probably worth a month om MY pay! I just drug my pack along behind him... I thought I was going to pass out and was probably partially dehydrated at that point.

I made it back to the office and after checking and responding to some emails almost passed out face first on my keyboard. And that's when I posted the beggining of this post...heh

WoW, what a day... All that because DHL screwed up and left the server at the wrong base!!! Who has the number to the Better Business Bureaus of Iraq???

Blog Interests In My New Blogworld

2005-08-20T23:34:00.000-07:00

There are a few new blogs that I read today and dicided that I want to share!

The first is pretty much an essay bloggist that gives interesting insight to daily life: past, present and future. It makes for an appealing read of new and old experiences...

Drop on by and see what you think: A Goddess' Journey Day 1 - The Adventure Begins

The other new Blog is a friend of mine that has been off and on in a few places with his boggisms. Today I found his blog prior to his creation at Yahoo! 360 and found some rather funny stuff! This guy is quite a character and post some great material, whether its about him or something going on around him.

Give it a glance and leave him some comments, maybe he will be encouraged to update more often! Dan Who? -Dust Away *Import

Linked

2005-08-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

Last night I was linked by Dave's Not Here, a very interesting blog from a current resident of Iraq! Also a friend of mine.

To my dismay, I have no way of tracking what type of traffic I have received and have contacted the Yahoo! 360 Team in search of answers. I hope there is a way or that this feature will eventually be added.

I was not aware that my 360 site could not be viewed by those that do not have a Yahoo! ID until Dave mentioned it when Linkin my site. This has caused me to reevaluate the home of my Blog, as I see this as a negative and often a deterrent to those that come by and have to sign into some type of membership or service to view my "Public" blog.

First Time Ever!!

2005-08-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the first time ever that I was able to have a clear productive conversation calling the Ukraine!!!

OMG! It was like a whole new form of clear communication... accept for the squeels every now and then. Granted it took calling 5 times to connect and get audibly understandable conversation!

Either way it was the most productive and best sounding conversation!!!

Flaming Phones!!!

2005-08-18T05:40:00.000-07:00

This is a "RANT" if this were not a rant it would have be proceeded by a "Testing Disclaimer" and some type of anoying tones or beeps! This is NOT a TEST!

This month I recieved my SBC e-bill notification as I always do. To my surprise I was being notified that this bill is for $200.00+ USD!!! But how can this be, you ask? I am in Iraq. I don't use my home phone! Why do I have ~$170.00 in International phone calls to cell phones in Romania and Nigeria???

Well someone made the calls right? True, my cousin is staying at my house back in the states and I phoned him on this matter last night. He informed me that he called some local chat lines in the Houston area but no long distance. I do know that he is in the habbit of having stupid conversations with women on these freebee chatlines when he gets bored, but I also know that there is NO WAY IN HELL that he successfully dialed an international phone number!!! Let me put it this way, he cant even put in a pin Code on an ATM and know what to press for Checking or Savings, much less dial to the side of the world on which I currently reside!

I am not sure if what he called was some type of a scam that forwards calls or what... but thats Nukin Futs!!! My real RANT agianst phone companies in the US is all the hidden charges and taxes etc. I get better billing and up front charges on my Cell phone bill than I ever have out of SBC!! I am so sick of their crap... this stems from previous issues that I have had with them over the years. Don't these Phone companies of yesteryear understand that we are just not getting any value out of their service for the over inflated prices we pay! Do they not know that they are going the way of the Dinosoar. I myself have been operating on Cellphone since 1997 and only recently set up a Land Line when I bought my house in December. I soon inherited the stupid charges and crap service that I had fought in the past over my mother's phone service.

I tell you what, I for one am tired of companies like SBC... AKA the AOL of phone companies! I will be switchin to VONAGE! I may even do it before I go back to the states! If you already have broadband internet why pay companies like SBC $60 a month for the hassles, just use a VOIP phone! Believe me they work! I have been using one in Iraq for over a year and they are way better than the digital and analog lines that we had before we went VOIP!

Yes, this was a bit of a blab with thoughts all over the place but I feel better! Heck, I'll be great just as soon and I find a way to hose that $170 worth of scam charges and and reduce my monthly phone bill by 3/4's!!!

Reflection

2005-08-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

Today I have spent some time reflecting upon my trip to Kharkov, Ukraine... I must say that I enjoyed it immensly! As I have told many people lately, it was like going back in time to the 1950's of America. Things were very basic. You could tell that the vast majoriy lived a hard but simple life day to day. It was a whole diffent world from any country I have yet been! I rented a flat (apartment) in Kharkov because it is much nicer and less expensive than the 2 or 3 hotels available there. Flats seem to be where most people live, there were so many more Flat Units than I ever saw individual houses. The language barier was a bit difficult due to the fact that I only know a small handful of phrases and words in Russian, but I hope to resolve that over time.

I have had some Russian language softwar for about a year but I just never had the time with the long hours that we work in Iraq. I hope to somehow find a little time at least 2-3 nights a week to do some learnin'. As for Kharkov, my trip would not have been as special without Oksana (Girl I met last year & went to visit on this trip to the Ukraine), I don't know how I would have found a supermarket or anything there! Unfortuately, we were limited with time due to Oksana not being able to take off work for vacation as originally planned. Luckily for us, it doesn't begin to get dark until about 21:30 (9:30PM) so we spent each evening walking to cafe's or to a park, exploring the city etc.

This situation left me quite a bit of time on my own durring the day, so I tried not to get into to much mischief! I went to a little shop and tried to buy some cookies and things for our evening tea. Well, that turned out interesting... I held up 5 fingers to a lady because I wanted 5 of the cookies there at the shop and the next thing I know she was weighing out a freakin' bag... and not a little one! Lets just say I respectively paid for the week and a half supply of shortbread cookies, said Pasiba(thank you) and went on my way! Thank goodness the USD goes about 5 times further in the Ukraine..heh Now that I think back, it was all fun in the end. Unfortunately for me, I found some useful tips after I returned from my trip that I wish I would have known beforehand.

Never give someone flowers in an even number -- Dope! (I think I bought her A Dozen Roses three different days! Doomed by the American way!)
Whistling for just about any reason is very rude (Oksana taught me that one in a Cafe'. I was just kidding around about whistling to get a waitress, and was quickly scolded...lol)
Be prepared to remove your shoes upon entering a home, even your own apartment and use the slippers provided.
Always, offer to share snacks etc. (I lucked out on this one I think... I hade Oksana and her brother and I all order some different dishes at a Cafe' so we could all share.)
Do not shake hands across the threshold of a door. (I think I envited people in first and then shook hands...)
When shaking hands, take off your gloves. (lucky for me it is in the mid 70-80's in July and there was no need for gloves.)
Be prepared to accept all food and drink offered you when visiting! (I tried things at least and they let me slide on this one for the most part because we always ate in casual settings at my place or a cafe')
Don't put your thumb between your first two fingers - this is a very rude gesture! (Not a habbit I have, thank goodness!)
If you are invited into a family home, it is traditional to bring a gift. Wine, a cake, flowers is customary. If there is a child in the house, it is appropriate to provide him/her with a small gift as well.

All in all I think I did ok, but just knowing a bit more in advance would have been nice! They let me slide on things i'm sure. We were always discussing the different customs of the US and Ukraine. As soon as I can get some things ironed out and set in place I will be making a return trip and if at all possible, my first cruise ever - taking me to Italy, Greece and Croatia -three places I have yet to visit!!!

Complexity

2005-08-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

Decisions, as of late, have become a chess game as I attempt to sort out and play all the pieces correctly to result in my end goals. It's strange how one day can be so simple and the next is baffled in complexity! I have had a new realization to how organization, laws and regulations have led the U.S. to be the successful nation that it is. My problem is trivial in comparison, but as it sits and stares back at me demanding my focus I must give it way. Why can't other countries have laws and standards that allow people to plan things and utilize what little freedom they have to enjoy?

I find myself in a difficult situation trying to plan a trip for my girlfriend and I to Europe that will require acquisition of many Visas for her. If that isnt enough, although she may request and be granted a set number of days off for this vacation, her boss could easily change his mind the day prior, as he has done before, and place her job in jepordy over her staying or not! How do you plan around crap like that! Arghhhhh!!!! I am in a fix over this one... it's not like you can wait until the last minute to get plane and cruise tickets and visas etc... Gooooosh!

What to do? To get back to the point about the success of the US. It just takes structure and planning, law and following through etc. to get things done and be successful. Growing up in the US this is natural... but a big headeach to deal with when dealing with other countries. I thnik I will retire for the night and think on this no longer... instead watch a movie at Dave's Movie Corner and then crash into my bed...