Powell's Bookstore

I went into downtown Portland, OR today to look around and get some exercise in. When I was down there, I stopped by Powell's Books . If you are a book reader or just love shopping for books and are in the Portland area for a couple of days, I would recommend stopping by for an afternoon (or two.) They have over seven huge rooms of books and they take up a whole city block in downtown Portland. I think they are rated at one of the best bookstores in the world. It was amazing to say the least. I walked in from the Green Room entrance and was amazed. I had to use the restroom and ended up in the Purple Room after that. I wondered through the History Sections. Next, I wondered up to the Pearl Room where they have a Rare Book Room with books selling between 100 and over 2000 dollars. Next, I wondered over to the Science Fiction section in the Gold Room where they have over like 5 rows of books. It was awesome, and I was in book heaven. So, they have pretty much any book you ever wanted, and if they don't have it, they will find it for you.

Last Night

I just wanted to say "thanks for the memories" to quote a Fall Out Boy song entitled the same. However, as I look back over the past three years, I am thankful for the people I have met and the experiences I have had. Yet, as I move on, I know that He is watching over me from above, and is guiding me to Great Lakes. But, on a more important note, I will be returning back in three years or so. Everyone take care!

Shalom!

Two posts in one day....

Well, I am waiting for the movers to stop by and move my stuff out of my apartment. I have less than one week to go here in San Diego for awhile and it really hit home yesterday when Lynette had a going away party at her place yesterday. But, she sponsored a prayer quilt in my honor. It is pretty cool to say the least. The picture of the quilt is on the left. At the end of the party, when everone was leaving I noticed I was getting a little misty in th eyes because I am leaving such good friends down here. This prayer quilt ministry is such a good idea. The idea is that the ministry makes the quilt but leaves the string untied everywhere. Then, people tie a knot in the quilt and say a prayer. The knots keeps the quilt together and your prayers help the person out. Here is the website if you are interested in starting one at your church: http://www.prayerquilt.org/. So, anyway, this coming Sunday will be the last Sunday at First Church for awhile. I know I will be coming back to Sunny San Diego on vacation, but I don't know when that will be. Well, I think the movers are here. Take care!

New law allows saluting in civilian attire during Anthem

11/19/2008 - WASHINGTON D.C. -- Veterans and servicemembers not in uniform can now render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the national anthem, thanks to changes in federal law that took effect in October.

"The military salute is a unique gesture of respect that marks those who have served in our nation's armed forces," said Dr. James B. Peake, secretary of Veterans Affairs. "This provision allows the application of that honor in all events involving our nation's flag."

The new provision improves upon a little known change in federal law last year that authorized veterans to render the military-style hand salute during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag, but it did not address salutes during the national anthem. Last year's provision also applied to servicemembers while not in uniform.

Traditionally, members of the nation's veterans service organizations have rendered the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the national flag while wearing their organization's official head-gear.

The most recent change, authorizing hand-salutes during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel, was sponsored by Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, an Army veteran. It was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which President Bush signed Oct. 14.

The earlier provision authorizing hand-salutes for veterans and out-of-uniform servicemembers during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag, was contained in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, which took effect Jan. 28, 2008.

Last Days

Well, I have only 12 days left onboard here and another 15 more in San Diego. I really thing it finally hit home today, that I have only a short time here before I transfer and head north to parts unknown. I know He will guide me where He wants me to go, but it is still another journey in the unknown I have to take.

Things are going good onboard the ship. I have started checking out of the command, and have already checked out with the CO and the XO. I only have a couple of more signatures to go before I am done. I think once I finally have my check out sheet done and over with, it will defiantly hit home. This week is my last week onboard here for awhile (knock on wood), and I think this week will go by blazing fast. The movers come by next week to move out of the apartment, and there is the Christmas party next Wednesday. After that, it will be a hop, skip, and a jump before I leave the following Sunday.

I think I will have a couple of parties before I go. One will be this Sunday, December 14th, at a friend place in the afternoon. And, I was thinking about having another “adult” party on December 19th. I will let more people know about those when it comes around the corner, quickly, I might add.

Well, I think I might go up to the office and “see” how things are going. I hope everyone has a good week at work, or whatever, they might be doing.

Shalom!

New Book

Well, after a really, really, really, really long day at work, I was looking forward to reading a new book I received in the mail the other day only to realize I left the book at work. I was going to talk about it, but now I can't. However, thanks in the wonderful Internet, I will tell you the title and leave it for tomorrow night to discuss what I thought about the first couple of chapters. The title of the book is 5 Practices of Fruitful Congregations by Bishop Robert Schnase, who is a United Methodist Bishop from the Missouri Conference. The church I am going to now will start discussing the book come next year some time, but since I won't be here, I am going to read it now and just blog about it, I guess.

For some reason....

I just love quotes. I don't know what it is. And, of course, those cute little pictures Google comes up with on special occasions. I wonder whose job it is to figure out the google picture of the day. For example, today is Veteran's Day, and I have attached their picture of day to the left.

President Lincoln’s words in the Gettysburg Address are perhaps the most appropriate, albeit in a larger context than originally intended:
“But in a larger sense, we can not dedicate — we can not consecrate — we can not hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

Today, I think we should remember those who have gone before us and given the highest sacrifice to their country, but also remember those still living who are putting their lives on the line for their country.

Shalom!

Happy Birthday

Today is one of the most important days in the history of the US Marine Corps. I just wanted to say Happy Birthday to the Marines stationed around the world and the ones at home. God Bless!

Stars

Once of the best things about my job is I get to look at the stars at night. Over the last couple of months, this job has got very stressful, and I realized sometimes it is the simple stuff in life that makes our job worth while, and for me, it is looking up at the stars at night with no lights around.

Change

I was at Borders in Mission Valley the other night killing some time before a movie started. And, I came across a book that predicted what someone would be like given their birthday. Mine said as a Gemini, I would like change. And, I think that is very true. I am happy that Senator Obama will be the next President of the United States. I think the country needs some changing, and this is one of them.

However, I am sad that California managed to pass Prop 8 yesterday. The state was looking pretty good in that area accepting the right for gays and lesbians the right to marry. I still get into arguements with people onboard here who question the right for gays and lesbian to marry. If you have any questions, please go here. This is 8 reasons why my Pastor oppses Prop 8, and I agree with all of them.

On another note, I managed to bring my camera with me this time, and I will try to either get some pictures on this, or at some other sight.

Shalom!

Underway

I wish I brought my camera along and I am now kicking myself. I saw some cool things that I could have shared, but oh, well. Next time hopefully.

Shalom!

Well....

While I am waiting for Wayne to make some buffalo/sausage burgers for tonight, I might as well give an update of what is going on in my world.

We just got back from a week long underway where some group came out and tested the ship out and see if we could survive with a number of problems thrown at us. It was pretty fun to see what kind of damage this group could throw at us and how the ship could fight the problem. The main inspector noted that he was impressed with the ship during one drill because he didn't think we could make something happen with in the time allotted. After that, we went and shot some missiles that really not a lot of ships get a chance to do, and then we went and shot our guns at some targets.

Next week, we will get underway for around two weeks to integrate with the strike group that the ship is deploying with in January. It should be a lot of fun with a number of things going on. After that, we have to pull back into Seal Beach because they loaded us with the wrong amount of ammo and no one noticed. Oh, well. Hopefully, this time, we won't get thrown out of the liberty port and we can actually enjoy some time out in town. We will see what happens.

I am still leaving at the end of December. I am excited about doing something new, but I am also sad about leaving my good friends I have made over the past three years. People like Molly and Matt, Karen, Sheri, Carl and Lisa, Wayne and Marian, the Water's Edge Crew, Tom, Jim, Demmie, Mary, Lea, Becky, Randy, Elbert, and many others. But, I think this is the better for my career in the Navy. An,d I keep telling myself the "ends justify the means." I will be trying to come back on leave and see everyone hopefully around once a year or so. And, before you know it, I will be back in San Diego in 2012. Anyway, I don't want to get too mushy around here.

Go Broncos!

Shalom!

Leave Date

Well, I routed my transfer information today through the command and put down a transfer date of around 19 December. I probably won't leave town until after church on the 21st, but I just wanted to let everyone know I will be leaving around that time. I will write more on the subject later.

Take care!

Shalom!

Cool Quote

This quote was used by Admiral Mike Mullins, JCS, in his speech he gave at the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial Dedication:

"In great deeds something abides. On great fields something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear, but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field to ponder and dream; And lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls."


Major General Joshua Chamberlain
Speaking at the dedication of the Monument to the 20th Maine
October 3, 1889, Gettysburg, PA

POW/MIA Run....

There was a POW/MIA run today at Naval Base San Diego. There were almost 4,500 people running in the event today. The program was really good. Anyway, I just wanted to get my time down of 25:26 for a 3 mile run. I think this is my best time yet for a 3 miler.

Remembering

I ran across a TV show on channel 45 right now, and learned it was Flight 93. So, I also remembered it is close to September 11th. I was remembering where I was that fateful day. It was something like 2 am in the morning and I think I was stuck on my first ship (the USS John S McCain) in Japan. One of my guys woke me up after the first plane hit the first tower and I remember watching the second plane hit the second tower. It was a scary time over there. We immediately posted a couple of different watches and I remember a tug going out into the harbor. Over the next couple of days, the Japanese Coast Guard and Navy (bless their hearts) were out in the harbor protecting us. The Kitty Hawk and several other ships left around a week later to head to the Gulf.

Anyway, I just wanted to get that down. I am praying for all of the people who lost their lives or had friends/family who lost theirs.

What do you remember about that day? Where were you?

belated 50th....

I forget to celebrate my 50th posting on here. Oh, well. Maybe I will remember my 100th.

New Orleans

I just wanted to send out a quick prayer for everyone in New Olreans.

I hope they get out of there safely.

I also hope that the city is spared from alot of damage.

I am thinking about everyone down there. Take care!

Shalom!

Updates

Well, the first thing is I found out today that my parents are going to Greece without me tomorrow retracing the steps of Paul. I think it is called Footsteps of Paul. I think they are going to have alot of fun, but I am kind of sad I didn't get invited along. Oh, well! As my mom pointed, I will have to wait until I am sixty before I have a chance.

Last week sucked major doo-doo. We pulled into Seal Beach, CA to onload ammo at the Naval Weapons Station there. We had some alcholol related incidents on Monday and Tuesday nights with a brawl on Wednesday nights finishing it off. So, therefore, the Seal Beach Police Department pretty much told the CO they don't want anyone to have liberty on Thursday night, so we didn't and left on Friday. So, therefore, we pretty much got thrown out of a US Port. The ship is going to half to be on good behavior from here on out.

Also, I got my orders for Chicago. I will most likely be leaving here in December and reporting to Chicago in January. I will give more update when I receive them.

I hope everyone is doing okay, and I will talk with ya'all later!

Ryan

Half way over...

Well, we are half way over with our major inspection (Final Contract Trails or INSURV). And, it is a good thing we are getting underway tomorrow morning early. Now, the hard part is whether we come back in port tomorrow night or pull in sometime on Thursday. Hopefully, we are pulling in tomorrow night. Now, as of my section of INSURV. We passed all of our underway requirements as of early morning today and the rest of the stuff was pretty easy. We knocked out most of it yesterday, which was good. Now, I am waiting for my division to check in with me tonight. Liberty expires on board at 2200 (10 pm for you non-military folks). Another long day tomorrow, but we can see the light at the end of the tunnel finally. Take care!

Shalom!

Got Lucky....

Through some very hard work today and throughout the week, we get tomorrow off. So, I don't have to work something like 13 days straight. It feels a little good to get tomorrow off. But, don't count this out yet. Monday we have a major inspection in which two huge commands are trying to point fingers at the other person. So, tonight, I am going to go home and pass out. No, I might go out for a little bit. Maybe, borders or something. Anyway, thanks for thoughts and prayers. I hope everyone has a good weekend.

Shalom.

P.S. I have duty on Sunday. See you in two weeks.

14 more days to go.....

Well, it looks like we do this again. If we have to work on Saturday, I will have to work 14 days in a row until I get a day off from everything. I will know more if I have to work this Saturday. But, most likely, I will.

Shalom!

Thoughts

So, I am single. It takes a lot for me to open up to new people and take to them. I get scared and don't know what to say and it goes down hill from there. Anyway, sometimes I have really good friends who introduce me and it goes good. But, there are these stupid rules out there which make it difficult to move into anything. I start talking with someone and found out that I really like this person, but I can't go farther because of "rules." Let's just leave the rules alone right now. So, anyway, this is the story of that side of my life right now. I am way too busy at work to go out and talk with people. But, when I am alone, I get scared and don't get enough courage to go up to someone I like and start chatting with them. So, it is a vicious circle where I don't see the light at the end of the tunnel. We will see what happens.

Shalom.

Chief's Results

Well, it looks like I didn't make Chief this year. But, I kind of figured that. One, this is my first time taking the test and making board. Two, the advancement % was something like 6% with 12 out of 192 being selected for chief. And, three, the Navy only promoted 0 QMCM's, and 5 QMCS's.

I am not sad. It would be nice to be a Chief right now, but like my senior chief said, it took him seven years to make Chief. Better luck next year.

Shalom

Brick Wall

See last post, but I think I just hit that brick wall and I am trying to go beyond that without the use of coffee and/or red bull. We will see how it works!

Tired

Well, I figured I would be more exhausted them I am right now. This morning we had to be onboard the ship by 0600, with reveille at 0500. Not a problem in the least. I left at 0445 and got on the ship around 0505. Easy! However, it didn't help that I woke up around 1130 pm with a Huey flying overhead my apartment. It sounded really, really, really loud, and it made one pass and flew back. I am like okay, it might be a police helo, etc. Well, 10 minutes later, it came back again. Now, I am getting a little worried and look outside the window and see people running around. So, I turn on the news and discover there is a fire burning in Mission Valley. Nice! So, naturally, I have to get up and check out the fire and everything. Yes, I did get some pictures and I will try to post some of them when I ain't too busy. So, naturally, I only got 3 hours of sleep tonight or so. Maybe 4 hours of broken sleep. Nice to say the least.

Stress Management

Lynette sent me this via email! I thought it was pretty good so I will pass this on!

Enjoy!

Thought you guys would enjoy this. Is worth the read esp. the List.
Cheers!

A lecturer, when explaining stress management to an audience, raised a glass of water and asked, "How heavy is this glass of water?" Answers called out ranged from 8oz. To 20oz.
The lecturer replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it."

"If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance."

"In each case it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes."

He continued, "And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."
"As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden. "

"So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work/life down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow."

"Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment if you can. Relax; pick them up later after you've rested. Life is short. Enjoy!"

And then he shared some ways of dealing with the burdens of life:

1 * Accept that some days you're the pigeon, and some days you're the statue
2 * Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.
3 * Always read stuff that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it.
4 * Drive carefully. It's not only cars that can be recalled by their Maker.
5 * If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
6 * If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it.
7 * It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others.
8 * Never buy a car you can't push.
9 * Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won't have a leg to stand on.
10 * Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.
11 * Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late.
12 * The second mouse gets the cheese.
13 * When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.
14 * Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.
15 * You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.
16 * Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once.
17 * We could learn a lot from crayons. Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box.
18 * A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.

Interesting Email Chain!!!!

This was sent to me in an email and asked me to forward this to alot of people. One, I can't do that because I am on a government email and they frown at that, and two, I don't believe you will have "bad luck" because you don't send an email to so many people. So, I think this is the next best thing (sort of). Enjoy!

Ryan


"This was interesting. Criss Angel showed how this worked on one of his shows, but it was still kind of surprising when I checked out several people I knew. Not superstitious, but I need all the luck I can get.
Once you have opened this e-mail, there's no turning back.

Below are True descriptions of zodiac signs. Read your sign, and then forward it on, with your zodiac sign and label on the subject line. This is the real Deal, try ignoring or changing it, and the first thing you'll notice is having a horrible day starting tomorrow morning - and it only gets Worse from there. Remember, if you are on the cusp of another sign you most likely will have features of both signs...which may lead you into total confusion.....

CAPRICORN - The Go -Getter (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Patient and wise. Practical and rigid. Ambitious. Tends to be Good-looking. Humorous and funny. Can be a bit shy and reserved. Often pessimistic. Capricorns tend to act before they think and can be unfriendly at times. Hold grudges. Like competition. Get what they Want. 20 years of good luck if you forward.

AQUARIUS - The Sweetheart (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Optimistic and honest. Sweet personality. Very independent. Inventive and intelligent. Friendly and loyal. Can seem unemotional. Can be a bit rebellious. Very stubborn, but original and unique. Attractive on the inside and out.
Eccentric personality. 11 years of luck if you forward.

PISCES - The Dreamer (Feb 19 - Mar 20) Generous, kind, and thoughtful. Very creative and imaginative. May become secretive and vague. Sensitive. Don't like details. Dreamy and unrealistic. Sympathetic and loving. Kind. Unselfish. Good kisser. Beautiful. 8 years of good luck if you forward.

ARIES - The Daredevil (Mar 21 - April 19) Energetic. Adventurous and spontaneous. Confident and enthusiastic. Fun. Loves a challenge.
EXTREMELY impatient. Some times selfish. Short fuse. (Easily angered.) Lively, passionate, and sharp wit. Outgoing. Lose interest quickly - easily bored. Egotistical. Courageous and assertive. Tends to be physical and athletic. 16 years of good luck if you forward.

TAURUS - The Enduring One (April 20 - May 20) Charming but aggressive. Can come off as boring, but they are not. Hard workers. Warm-hearted. Strong, has endurance. Solid beings that are stable and secure in their ways. Not looking for shortcuts. Take pride in their beauty. Patient and reliable. Make great friends and give good advice. Loving and kind.
Loves hard - passionate. Express themselves emotionally. Prone to ferocious temper-tantrums. Determined. Indulge themselves often. Very generous. 12 years of good Luck if you forward

GEMINI - The Chatterbox (May 21 - June 20) Smart and witty. Outgoing, very chatty... Lively, energetic. Adaptable But needs to express themselves. Argumentative and outspoken. Like change. Versatile. Busy, sometimes nervous and tense. Gossips. May seem superficial or inconsistent. Beautiful physically and mentally. 5 years of bad luck if you do not forward.

CANCER - The Protector (June 21 - July 22) Moody, emotional. May be shy. Very loving and caring. Pretty/handsome. Excellent partners for life. Protective. Inventive and imaginative. Cautious. Touchy-feely kind of person. Needs love from others. Easily hurt, but sympathetic.
16 years of bad luck if you do not forward.

LEO - The Boss (July 23 - Aug 22) Very organized. Need order in their lives - like being in control. Like boundaries. Tend to take over everything. Bossy. Like to help others. Social and outgoing. Extroverted. Generous, warm-hearted. Sensitive. Creative energy. Full of themselves. Loving. Doing the right thing is important to Leos.
Attractive. 13 years of bad luck if you do not forward.

VIRGO - The Perfectionist (Aug 23 - Sept 22) Dominant In relationships. Conservative. Always wants the last word. Argumentative. Worries. Very smart. Dislikes noise and chaos. Eager. Hardworking. Loyal. Beautiful.
Easy to talk to. Hard to please. Harsh. Practical and very fussy. Often shy. Pessimistic. 7 years of bad luck if you do not forward.

LIBRA - The Harmonizer (Sept 23 - Oct 22) Nice to everyone they meet. Can't make up their mind. Have own unique appeal. Creative, energetic, and very social. Hates to be alone. Peaceful, generous. Very loving and beautiful. Flirtatious. Give in too easily. Procrastinators. Very gullible. 9 years of bad luck if you do not forward.

SCORPIO - The Intense One (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Very energetic. Intelligent. Can be jealous and/or possessive. Hardworking. Great kisser. Can become obsessive or secretive. Holds grudges. Attractive. Determined... Loves being in long Relationships. Talkative. Romantic. Can be self-centered at times. Passionate and Emotional. 4 years of bad luck! if you do not forward.

SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). Indulges self.
Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around.
Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out. 14 years of bad luck if you do not forward

Relief

Well, my time as Mess Decks Master-at-Arms (or MDMAA) is over. I got relieved on Monday before lunch time. I don't quite know yet whether I like this or not. I am still getting back into the thick of things up here. It is kind of fun since my Senior Chief is gone for the week. It is almost like going from the fire to the frying pan in some ways. But, now, for the most part, everyone in the division wants to be a Quartermaster. We will see how it goes during the rest of the week.

Lovely, now they say that the SWAN (Ship-wide Area Network) will be down for awhile during some checks. So, I have to finish this up quick. I was going to talk about a play I watched a couple of weeks ago, but I will do that at a later time.

Thanks for listening to me!

Shalom.

Inspection

Well, it is finally over. The out brief for the inspection this week was today and the results are in. We passed our inspection with flying colors. Overall, all major divisions in Supply passed with a score better than 85% meaning we are eligible for the blue battle "E."

Also, I get relieved on Monday as Mess Decks Master-at-Arms. I have enjoyed my time down here, but I think I need to get back to my regular job as a QM1.

This will be my last week of freedom of not standing duty. Although, I did get relived on a good time. I won't miss any Sundays for a couple of weeks.

Take care all and I hope you have a good weekend!

Shalom!

Wayne is going to be mad.....

We know we haven't failed our SMC inspection this week. SMC stands for Supply Management certification. The Supply department onboard goes through this inspection every 18-24 months. The came onboard on Monday and looked at our sanitation (cleaning), our records, and our lunch meal. We passed everything with flying colors or with a score greater than a 90. Today, they looked at our training, and equipment. I don't quite know how we did on that, but I do know we haven't failed our portion of the SMC. So, that is a good thing. I will be getting relieved on Monday as Messdecks Master-at-Arms, which I think is a good thing. There are some days which are good and there are days where it is bad. But, such is life, I guess.

Shalom.

Two Days down, Three to go

Well, it is around 2030 on day two, with around another hour to go before I can relax for today. And, there are still around 3 more days to go before we can pull in. I am surviving for the most part. There are times when I just want to explode on something or something. I guess maybe this is the Lord testing me for times to come or something. After every instance, I try to say the lord's prayer or something to get my mind off of what just happened.

We will see what happens over the next couple of days. We have a lot of evolutions to accomplish before we can pull in. Also, we have to work on Saturday this weekend because the inspection starts on Monday. I will be at church on Sunday morning, however, I think I will come in on Sunday afternoon to see what is going on. I will let you know later though.

Shalom.

Accepted

QM1 Reppe,

Congratulations! You have been screened and accepted for assignment as a RDC!

The rest is stuff for me but I am pretty excited at the news.

Here is an story from Navy News:

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (NNS) -- The Navy’s only boot camp is looking for motivated, career-minded Sailors to shape the future of the fleet by serving as Recruit Division Commanders, or RDCs.

RDCs are also known around the fleet as “red ropes” and are entrusted with the job of encouraging, training, molding, and teaching civilian men and women – and most importantly, transforming them into Sailors.

“We prepare Sailors for service in the fleet,” said RDC Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class (SW/AW) Thomas Dahlinghaus. “The job gives us the rare opportunity to have responsibility for and authority over 88 Sailors. We manage their training, their lives. By the time we go back to the fleet, we’re ready for anything. It’s a broadening experience, a time of real personal growth for RDCs.”

To be an RDC, a Sailor must be a warfare-qualified E-5 or above (E-5s must meet time-in-rate requirements) and be interviewed by a panel of one command master chief and two senior enlisted personnel.

The training of RDCs is extensive. RDCs in training take a second trip through boot camp during a demanding 13-week training program that includes indoctrination, drilling, administration, physical training and leadership training. During this time, prospective RDCs wear “blue ropes” which they will later exchange for the more familiar red aiguillette of a fully trained RDC.“

For the blue ropes, the training is critical,” said RDC Chief Hospital Corpsman Marsha Burmeister. “Those 13 weeks are giving them the tools they’ll need on that first push.”

Before donning the red rope, there is an important period when a blue rope shadows a red rope, watching what they do and gradually increasing their interaction with Recruits. A red rope is always with a blue rope during this phase, and there is a weekly performance and progress review.

Even after RDCs earn their red rope and the Recruit Division Commander badge, the training is not done. New RDCs are paired up with veteran RDCs, allowing time to fully learn what is expected before taking control of their first Recruit division.

It’s a job that comes with high standards and high rewards. One of the best rewards is the increased promotion opportunity. Last year, the Navywide average for eligible candidates being selected for chief was 20.4 percent. The average for eligible candidates serving as RDCs was 32.8 percent.

“These individuals are shaping our future force, and their demanding jobs are recognized by selection boards as developing senior enlisted leaders [who] can serve in the most challenging jobs in the Fleet,” said CNO-Directed Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Tony Driver, command master chief for Naval Service Training Command. Storekeeper 1st Class (AW) Jose Rodriguez said the job is extremely rewarding because RDCs get to see the result of their efforts.“

[Recruits] see the self respect they have gained,” Rodriguez said. “When they finish Battle Stations, they’re considered one of us. You see the tears and you know how much it means to them. After all the hours that you put in, it all comes together.”

Because Sailorization is a critical task and one that requires extensive preparation, RDCs can earn the Master Training Specialist (MTS) designator. This Naval Education Training Center-sponsored program recognizes outstanding instructors who demonstrate a high level of excellence in the field of education and training. Earning an MTS designation distinguishes Sailors in the fleet and can give Sailors an advantage in post-military career searches.

The Navy offers several types of compensation to RDCs for their efforts. RDCs receive Special Duty Assignment Pay of $375 per month and they receive a $225 clothing allowance on top of their regular clothing allowance. They get head-of-the-line privileges for housing and day care, free dry cleaning for three uniforms each week, and are offered “choice of coast” when negotiating for their follow-on orders.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate First Class (SW/AW) Maguel Lashoun Brooks appreciates those tangible benefits but said the real payoff of being an RDC is seeing the impact they make on the lives of new Sailors.“They look at you as a hero, father and a role model,” he said. “I am proud to know I am giving back to the Navy. I’ve contributed something to my service, and I’d want to serve with any of the Sailors I’ve trained.”

20 more days/Awaiting Judgement

Well, I think the next 5 weeks will be some of the hardest 20 days of my tour onboard. There is alot of things going on. We will be conducted Sea Trials next week, with SMC (Supply Material Certification). After that, alot of stuff onboard doesn't really involve me until FCT (Final Contract Trials) gets done. After all of that gets done, I can finally breathe for a little bit. So, if I sound a little stressed out, I most likely am.

On another note, I went and saw a play called "Awaiting Judgment." It was a conversation between Dietrich Bonheoffer (DB) and Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) One of the playwright's discovery when writing this play was the similarities of those two people. DB was born in January and MLK in February, separated by 23 years. DB was hung in a Nazi Prison in April 9, 1945 and MLK was assassinated on April 2, 1968, 23 years later, and they were both 39 years old. Both believed in practicing non-violent pacifism. They both believed in starting a grass-roots movement to stop their beliefs. They both believed in Gandhi’s policies concerning non-violent pacifism. The play expertly touched on DB's roll in trying to assassinate Adolf Hitler going against everything that the Bible and Gandhi believed in. It was a very moving play. At the end, it asked us what we need to do today. Where do we start?

I think the answer to that question is by starting out small and changing little things around us that we know are wrong: Gay/Lesbian Marriage, Israeli Palestine conflict, the War in Uganda, etc.

Exhausting Monday

I guess this is more of a prayer than anything. I guess if today is any news of the week, then this one is going to be hell. So, I just wanted to get to get some of my frustrations out right now, instead of bottling them up. So, if you read this, just pray for me at the end for patience, hope, love, strength and general well being. Thanks for all of the thoughts!

Shalom!

Sermon this morning.....

I really enjoyed Jim's sermon this morning. I guess I should bring a pen from now on when I go to "big" church. He mentions the best things. He had four good points for any Father and/or Graduate. He mentions the bulletin beginning, "The more a child becomes aware of a father's willingness to listen, the more a father will begin to hear." And, along with Jim, I think this is so true with alot of things. The more we hear what other people have to say, the more they will listen to us.

Shalom!

I always like this one.....

"But it's not who you are underneath, it's what you do that defines you...."



I think that is so true.



Bonus points for if someone can name the movie (without goggling it)......

Some cool quotes I found......

Sometimes, when I look at my children, I say to myself,"Lillian, you
should have remained a virgin." - Lillian Carter (mother of Jimmy Carter)



I had a rose named after me and I was very flattered. But I was not
pleased to read the description in the catalog: - "No good in a bed, but
fine against a wall." - Eleanor Roosevelt



Last week, I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I had ever seen.
I have since been visited by her sister, and now wish to withdraw that
statement. - Mark Twain



The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good
ending; and to have the two as close together as possible. - George Burns



Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year. -
Victor Borge



Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint. -
Mark Twain



By all means, marry. If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if
you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher. - Socrates



I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury. - Groucho
Marx



My wife has a slight impediment in her speech. Every now and then she
stops to breathe. - Jimmy Durante



I have never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back. - Zsa Zsa
Gabor



Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four essential food
groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat. - Alex Levine



My luck is so bad that if I bought a cemetery, people would stop dying.
- Rodney Dangerfield



Money can't buy you happiness .. But it does bring you a more pleasant
form of misery. - Spike Milligan



Until I was thirteen, I thought my name was SHUT UP. - Joe Namath



I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time
for my nap. - Bob Hope



I never drink water because of the disgusting things that fish do in
it. - W. C. Fields



We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its
way through Congress. - Will Rogers



Don't worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older, it will
avoid you. - Winston Churchill



Maybe it's true that life begins at fifty .. But everything else starts
to wear out, fall out, or spread out. - Phyllis Diller



By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step, he's too old to go
anywhere. - Billy Crystal

Humanity

Well, as I am home from the Padres game, and I have had a couple of drinks during the Padres game and a couple of them after the Padres game and before/during the Lakers game. I turned on the TV, and after a couple of shows, the X-Men 2 came on . One of the quotes came on in the beginning intriged me. It says, "...Sharing the world has never been humanity's defining attribute." How very true, if you don't mind me saying. I agree with what they say, but in a different way. Let's take it from a Christian point of view. Sharing the word of God with someone who doesn't believe in the same things you do? Who doesn't think the way you do? Or, should people in the church have a right to determine who should be in the church and who shouldn't? Should people have a right to question wheter someone is good enough to be in the church? Should gay people, homeless people, racist people be exculded from the church for what they belive in? WWJD? Would the Man upstairs turn these people away from the church because what they believed in? Would he walk across the street to get away from these kinds of people? NO! He would glady stay on the same side of the street and "heal" them. Once the word got out, poeple would flock to his word and follow him. Just the same, it should be the church to help these people out as much as possilbe, I guess. I don't know. I guess I might be rambling to a point. Anyway, let me know what you think. I might dwell on this further later in the week.

After much back spacing to correct miss-spelled words, and hitting the "ABC" sign to see if I "missed" something. Guess what the only words it came up with? Tune in next time?

Birthday morning

Well, I took leave this week to enjoy by 30th birthday and get away from work for awhile. Last night, I went to the local bar and watched the Lakers beat the Spurs and had a couple of beers. I go to bed feeling pretty good, and what time do I first wake up? 4:30, without my alarm clock. Gotta love it!

Memorial Day Sunday

Here is a speech given by CDR Carl Meuser,USN, this morning during our services at FUMC, San Diego, CA. I don't think anyone could have said it better.

In the United States, three days are set aside to recognize those who are serving or have served in the military: Armed Forces Day, Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day. Armed Forces Day, observed in May recognizes those of us who are currently serving. Veteran’s Day, the eleventh day of the eleventh month, recognizes those who have previously served. Memorial Day, which began as “Decoration Day” in the 1860’s, recognizes those who have died in our nation’s wars. At First Church, all three groups are recognized on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, and we are grateful to the larger church for this recognition.
As a current member of the military, I am going to focus this morning on those who have gone before and what we can take from their deeds. Holidays such as Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day are about taking the time to stop and look at our past. George Santanaya famously observed that those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. Of course, examining history is a challenging endeavor, particularly when dealing with the subject of war, emotional as that topic is. It is well that this subject be emotional, as few things are more dangerous to us as God’s children than to be uncaring and cavalier about the decisions regarding entering and conducting war.
Looking at our history, we do ourselves a disservice if we look simply for events that we would not want to repeat. We must also look into the past at the sacrifice, the fortitude and courage of the individuals involved and draw inspiration from them.
We have within our congregation men and women who distinguished themselves in the worst conflicts of the age. We who currently serve hear the words, “The Resistance”, Bastogne, Leyte Gulf, USS INDIANAPOLIS, Da Nang, Yankee Station, and we are humbled to stand in the presence of those who were actually there. When you look upon them, though, you will notice that they do not look like the heroes of antiquity. They are not the tallest and broadest of shoulder. They look very much like you and me – and that is very much the point. This nation, which was founded of God’s children, by God’s children, for ALL of God’s children, has survived because unassuming men and women were willing to march into the valley of the shadow of death to confront the evils of their age.
The holiday we now call Memorial Day sprang spontaneously from the wake of our Civil War, much as the poppies that sprang from the war-churned fields of Flanders. Thoughtful people who survived to inherit the PROMISE of a land where all men and women were created equal and endowed with inalienable rights understood that it was right to pause and show gratitude to those who had stepped forward and offered themselves upon the altar of freedom.
Sadly, Memorial Day is all too often viewed as simply the day when the public swimming pool opens and it becomes okay to wear white to social functions. It must mean more to us than that. Certainly, it is right to be thankful as we stand before the graves of those who perished, but the true test is what we do on Tuesday morning – and thereafter.
The promise of this nation is not fulfilled by mythic heroes, just as that promise was not preserved by the tallest and broadest of shoulder. The promise is fulfilled by unassuming people who look very much like you and me – people who take responsibility for their inalienable rights. It is people who assemble to thoughtfully and respectfully debate the pressing matters of our country and protest for their causes. It is people who cast carefully considered votes – for whichever candidate they think most fit for office. It is people like you and me who expend sweat and treasure to feed the hungry and clothe the naked.
And so, tomorrow, remember and be thankful for the young Americans who did not return from that Valley of the Shadow of Death, and do not, do not, forget on Tuesday morning what they preserved for you.

Prince Caspian

Well, I went and saw Prince Caspian last night. That was an awesome movie, in my opinion. They had some great references to Jesus. I can't remember some of the quotes like other people can, but I would recommend the movie to other people. I would definitely recommend you go in there with an open mind and listen for the other point of the movie.

Take care!

Have a Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

Ryan

Bay Bridge Run

Well, the results are out, and it looks like I completed the run in 34:56 minutes at a pace of 8:44 minutes. Not too shabby, if you ask me.

The Navy's 22nd Original Bay Bridge Run/Walk

Well, I completed the Bay Bridge run this morning. According to my Ipod+Nike, it said I completed 3.68 miles in approx 34:48 which is an average of 9.5 mile, or something like that. Overall, I had a lot of fun. That bridge is rough to say the least. We started near the Convention Center on Harbor Drive, and ran down to Barrio Logan Trolley stop and took a left. We took another right Cesar E Chavez parkway before hooking around to enter the bridge. The hardest part was right there coming onto the bridge. Wow, it was steep and the incline. From there, it was a steady incline up the bridge. I eventually had to jog for around 45 seconds and walk for like 15 seconds. It was just too tough for me to do by myself. The way down was awesome. Nothing like a steady hill on the way down to get you going. After the 3 mile mark, I tried to get a "kick" going, but the U-turn at the bottom was tough too. Also, there were way too many people running along this little cart path. After I rounded underneath the bridge, we were greeted by some high school cheerleaders. Then, it was a race to the finish. Not too shabby if you ask me. I made it home, took a shower, and back to church to make it too Molly's class on the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church.

"I" Messages-The Formula

So, tonight, I having been going to a class given at my church called "Loving Your Enemies." We have been discussing some ways to love your enemies. Tonight we discussed the idea of the "I" Messages and the formula around it.

(Funny note: I was looking up "I" message right now, and it sent me to a site at the US Department of State. Nice! It is here.)

Anyway, the "I" message goes something like this. The purpose of the "I" message is

1. When you seek to solve a problem rather that attach a person
2. You focus on the behavior and the feelings that these behaviors arouse
3. Express feelings that surround a problem as a means of transforming a conflict situation by arousing empathy in the other party.

The Formula:

When-- (Whatever happens, happens--it must be an observable action and not your
interpretation.)

I feel-- (an emotion and not a belief. An example, I feel hurt when... Instead of, I feel
alone)

Because-- (feelings come out of YOU and the person you have become through various
experiences in your life; explain the basis of your feeling rather than blaming the
other person or yourself.)

And what I'd like to see happen is-- (How both of you take into account other another's
needs, and work towards an acceptable solution
for each other.)


Wrapping up, I thought this was a pretty good idea to use instead of saying the dreading "you make me feel like....." or "you are a slob...." It starts conversation, instead of shutting the other person down automatically.

All in all, this was a good class tonight. Now, it is on to Criminal Minds.

Birthday Song

I guess this song was the #1 song when I was born:

"Too Much, Too Little, Too Late" by Johnny Mathis & Deniece Williams

If you are intersted in what song you are, click here.

Two out of three ain't bad....

Dear Ryan:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act. It's good to hear from you.

In 1944, the original Montgomery G.I. Bill was proposed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to help World War II veterans receive educational benefits upon their return home from combat. Though the bill has been modified many times over the past sixty years, it needs to be updated for the post-9/11 era. That is why I am proud to support the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act.

This important legislation would make increased educational benefits available to all members of the military who have served at least three months of active duty since September 11, 2001. The bill would also provide, for the first time, such benefits to members of the Reserves and National Guard who currently make up a greater percentage of America 's Armed Forces than they have in the past.

The men and women who have defended our country in the wake of 9/11 have earned the increased educational benefits proposed in this legislation. This new G.I. Bill will ensure America 's veterans have full access to the knowledge needed to go into the career of their choice and provide veterans with a smooth transition from active duty to civilian life.

Thanks again for contacting me. If you get a chance, I encourage you to visit my website at http://www.house.gov/rehberg where you can find the latest news about what's happening in Congress. Also, if you haven't already done so, please be sure to sign up for my free E-Newsletter at http://www.house.gov/rehberg/newsletter/ which will help keep you up-to-date with what is going on in Washington, DC and how it affects Montana. It's a good source for news stories, blog posts and to read what other Montanans just like you are saying

Sincerely,
Denny Rehberg
Montana's Congressman

Criminal Minds

“If we knew each other's secrets, what comforts we should find.”

John Churton Collins

I was watching the end of Criminal Minds, and this is the quote they ended with. I just wanted to share it!

Have a good night!

Ryan

Loving your Enemies

First off, before I write down what happened tonight, I want to pick on someone first. Lea was supposed to be here tonight for the class, but she ditched me saying she had some much stuff to do. And, she didn't read her homework I saved for her. (I am trying to make her feel guilty for not coming, and I don't know if it is working: Love ya, Lea).

Anyway, onto the subject. Tonight we had a really good discussion on "Loving your Enemies." We talked about MLK sermon he gave in November of 1967 on the subject. You can find it here. I warn you now, it is pretty long. We talked about that for a little bit. It is amazing that he gave the sermon now, and at least, I have come to realize that we aren't doing that now.

I mean, back then, the major subject was race. Now days, we talked about issues like homosexuality, abortion, etc. It seems to me that the church in general still isn't loving your enemies. We talk about change. But, then, nothing seems to happen. Jesus talked about "inclusion." He went out of his way to include the people back that weren't necessary the "right" people to hang out with, I guess. And, now days, the church doesn't like to talk about the same sort of thing. We talk about including everyone, but we can't still to have gay and lesbian pastors in the church. Maybe one day.

I guess that is enough rambling for now, I think. I continue to gain more insight and knowledge about loving your enemies. TTLY!

Shalom
Ryan

Our Solemn Hour

Here are some lyrics to a song called "Our Solemn Hour" by Within Temptation on their CD called The Heart of Everthing. I thought they were pretty good, so here there are:


Within Temptation Lyrics

Artist: Within Temptation
Album: The Heart of Everything
Song: Our solemn hour

Sanctus Espiritus redeem us from our solemn hour
Sanctus Espiritus insanity is all around us
Sanctus Espiritus! Sanctus Espiritus! Sanctus Espiritus!

In my darkest hours I could not foresee
That the tide could turn so fast to this degree
Can´t believe my eyes
How can you be so blind?
Is the heart of stone, no empathy inside?
Time keeps on slipping away and we haven´t learned
So in the end now what have we gained?

Sanctus Espiritus, redeem us from our solemn hour
Sanctus Espiritus, insanity is all around us
Sanctus Espiritus, is this what we deserve,
can we break free from chains of never-ending agony?

Are they themselves to blame, the misery, the pain?
Didn´t we let go, allowed it, let it grow?
If we can´t restrain the beast which dwells inside
it will find it´s way somehow, somewhere in time
Will we remember all of the suffering
Cause if we fail it will be in vain

Sanctus Espiritus, redeem us from our solemn hour
Sanctus Espiritus, insanity is all around us
Sanctus Espiritus, is this what we deserve,
can we break free from chains of never-ending agony?

Frustated

Well, I wanted to write my thoughts down and maybe this will relieve some of the stress I have right now. I am trying to find an instruction I need for work. Well, I tried the original website, thinking they are the writers of the instruction. I asked the help desk to email me the instruction. Well, as it turns out, they don't have to requested instruction. So, they sent to me to another place which might have the instruction. Well, their web site is really confusing. Now, it looks like I have to request for a new account. Hopefully that will go better than it looks like, and they might now have the instruction I am looking for. So, if this second place doesn't have the instruction, I don't know what I am going to do.

Well, I think this has helped out alot.

Men's Retreat

Well, good evening. As promised, I shall write about this past weekend.



The Men's Retreat was held at Palomar Christian Conference Center, which sits next to Palomar Mountain State Park. It is about an hour away from San Diego give or take 10-15 minutes.

The title of the retreat this year was "Myths of Manhood."

We watched the movie "The Man who Shot Liberty Valence" on Friday night. Mark Trotter and Greg Ladue talked on Saturday, and then we had a powerful worship and communion on Sunday.

I think the best talk was Greg's on Saturday night, which touched several of the men in the room. It struck to their very core and made them think about what is going on.

All in all, it was a good retreat. I walked away from the Retreat feeling recharged and ready to get out there and make a difference.

Take care!

Shalom!

Physical Health Assessment

Well, I ran my semi-annual physical health assessment this morning. Basically, it is our semi-annual test which we do twice a year seeing if we are physically fit to stay in the navy. I managed to do around 48 push-ups, 68 sit-ups, and run a 1.5 mile in 10:57 minutes. So, my overall score is a "Good, High" which ain't too bad, if you ask me. Although, I need to do better on my sit-ups and push-ups on my next test.

I have been slacking on here. I attended the 2008 Men's Retreat through my church over the weekend, and I need to talk about what happened. But, I am at work right now and I cannot go into too much details right now. So, I will try to write about this past weekend tonight.

I hope everyone has a good week! Take care!

Stress Relief

For a little stree relief action, click here.

This is pretty cool.

Six words....

So, I have been trying to think of six words that I would use. You wonder why six words. There is a "tag" been going around with my group of friends: Molly, Karen. Lea, and Marian. Here is what I came up with:

1) Faith, Hope, Love, Honor, Courage, Commitment

2) Brush off, Stand up, and Continue

Now, I guess, the hard part is figuring out how to fit a picture in the mix. That might take me a little bit.

(On a side note, I finally figured out where all of the "Drafts" run off to.....lol)

Here are the objectives if you come across this and are curious:

1) Write your own six word memoir.

2) Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration.

3) Link to the person who tagged you in your post, and to the original post if possible so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere.

4) Tag at least five more blogs with links. (THIS FEELS A BIT TOO MUCH LIKE A CHAIN LETTER TO ME, AND, I ALWAYS BREAK THOSE, SO, JUST FEEL FREE TO PLAY WHETHER OR NOT YOU INVITE OTHERS.)

5) Don’t forget to leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play.

6) Have fun.

Birthday Calculator

A friend sent me this and I thought it was pretty cool. Here is the website. Here is the information it provided:


28 May 1978
Your date of conception was on or about 4 September 1977 which was a Sunday.

You were born on a Sundayunder the astrological sign Gemini.

Your Life path number is 4.

Your fortune cookie reads:
"Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence." H.L. Mencken
Life Path Compatibility:
You are most compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 2, 4, 8, 11 & 22.
You should get along well with those with the Life Path numbers 6 & 7.
You are least compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 1, 3, 5 & 9.

The Julian calendar date of your birth is 2443656.5.
The golden number for 1978 is 3.
The epact number for 1978 is 21.
The year 1978 was not a leap year.

Your birthday falls into the Chinese year beginning 2/7/1978 and ending 1/27/1979.You were born in the Chinese year of the Horse.

Your Native American Zodiac sign is Elk; your plant is Mullein.

You were born in the Egyptian month of Mesore, the fourth month of the season of Shomu (Harvest).

Your date of birth on the Hebrew calendar is 21 Iyyar 5738.Or if you were born after sundown then the date is 22 Iyyar 5738.

The Mayan Calendar long count date of your birthday is 12.18.4.16.12 which is12 baktun 18 katun 4 tun 16 uinal 12 kin.
The Hijra (Islamic Calendar) date of your birth is Sunday, 20 Jumadiyu'th-Thani 1398 (1398-6-20).

The date of Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 26 March 1978.
The date of Orthodox Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 30 April 1978.
The date of Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent) on your birth year was Wednesday 8 February 1978.
The date of Whitsun (Pentecost Sunday) in the year of your birth was Sunday 14 May 1978.
The date of Whisuntide in the year of your birth was Sunday 21 May 1978.
The date of Rosh Hashanah in the year of your birth was Monday, 2 October 1978.
The date of Passover in the year of your birth was Saturday, 22 April 1978.
The date of Mardi Gras on your birth year was Tuesday 7 February 1978.

As of 4/17/2008 12:38:58 PM EDTYou are 29 years old.You are 359 months old.You are 1,559 weeks old.You are 10,917 days old.You are 262,020 hours old.You are 15,721,238 minutes old.You are 943,274,338 seconds old.

Celebrities who share your birthday:
Joseph Cross (1986)
Jesse Bradford (1979)
Kylie Minogue (1968)
Glen Rice (1967)
John Fogerty (1945)
Rudolph Giuliani (1944)
Gladys Knight (1944)
Dionne Quintuplets (1934)
Carroll Baker (1931)
Ian Fleming (1908)
Jim Thorpe (1888)

Top songs of 1978
Night Fever by Bee Gees
Shadow Dancing by Andy Gibb
Le Freak by Chic
Stayin' Alive by Bee Gees
Kiss You All Over by Exile
Boogie Oogie Oogie by A Taste of Honey
Baby Come Back by Player
MacArthur Park by Donna Summer
Thicker Than Water by Andy Gibb
Three Times a Lady by Commodores

Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 4.27279843444227 years old. (You're still chasing cats!)
Your lucky day is Wednesday.
Your lucky number is 5.
Your ruling planet(s) is Mercury.
Your lucky dates are 5th, 14th, 23rd.Your opposition sign is Sagittarious.
Your opposition number(s) is 3.
Today is not one of your lucky days!
There are 41 days till your next birthday on which your cake will have 30 candles.
Those 30 candles produce 30 BTUs,or 7,560 calories of heat (that's only 7.5600 food Calories!) . You can boil 3.43 US ounces of water with that many candles.
In 1978 there were approximately 3.1 million births in the US. In 1978 the US population was approximately 203,302,031 people, 57.4 persons per square mile. In 1978 in the US there were approximately 2,152,662 marriages (10.1%) and 1,036,000 divorces (4.9%) In 1978 in the US there were approximately 1,921,000 deaths (9.5 per 1000) In the US a new person is born approximately every 8 seconds. In the US one person dies approximately every 12 seconds. In 1978 the population of Australia was approximately 14,430,830. In 1978 there were approximately 224,181 births in Australia. In 1978 in Australia there were approximately 102,958 marriages and 40,608 divorces. In 1978 in Australia there were approximately 108,425 deaths.

Your birthstone is Emerald -->The Mystical properties of Emerald
Though not meant to replace traditional medical treatment, Emerald is used for physical and emotional healing. Some lists consider these stones to be your birthstone. (Birthstone lists come from Jewelers, Tibet, Ayurvedic Indian medicine, and other sources)

Agate, Chrysoprase

Your birth tree is
Ash Tree, the Ambition
Uncommonly attractive, vivacious, impulsive, demanding, does not care for criticism, ambitious, intelligent, talented, likes to play with its fate, can be egoistic, very reliable and trustworthy, faithful and prudent lover, sometimes brains rule over heart, but takes partnership very serious.

here are 252 days till Christmas 2008!
There are 265 days till Orthodox Christmas!

The moon's phase on the day you were born was waning gibbous.

New Job

Well, they made me what is known as Mess Deck Master-at-Arms on Monday. This has been a good change for me, I think. There are some good ones, and some not so good ones. First, I don't have to stand duty for the next three months or so. So, that means I get to go to church every weekend. I have my nights off, also. I guess the bad part is I have to be at work from 0600 to 1500-1600 Monday through Friday, now which leads to long hours sometimes. Oh, well! I can't have everything.

Also, I have been playing volleyball this week alot. I played for Supply in the Captain's Cup teams. We played Wednesday, Thursday, and then today. I am really sore now. But, it has been good times. We came in second place. For today, we played four against six most of the day, winning our first match, but losing our second. But, we lost to a good team the second go around.

I still haven't gotten a reply back from my other senator and my one Representative about the G.I. Bill. We will see what happens.

Well, I have off to bed. Take care everyone!

Shalom

Montgomery G.I. Bill

This is a response I got back from one of my US Senators about the Montgomery G.I. Bill. If you are interested in writing to your Senators and Representatives, I would recommend the following blog.


Dear Ryan:

Thank you for contacting me about educational benefits for active duty soldiers and returning veterans. As you know, the Montgomery G.I. Bill passed after World War II provided for great expansions in home ownership and college education, contributing to the post war growth of the middle class.

Anyone willing to put their life on the line for this country deserves access to a quality education. It is way past time to revisit the Montgomery G.I. Bill to ensure the provisions of this important act are responsive to the needs of military families in the 21st century.

There are currently several efforts to update the G.I. Bill. I am proud to co-sponsor S. 22, the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act introduced by my friend, Senator Jim Webb. This legislation would open up educational benefits to Reservists and National Guardsmen who served on or after September 11, 2001. It is currently being considered by the Veterans Affairs Committee on which I serve.

A similar piece of legislation which would achieve the important goal of expanding educational opportunities for National Guard and Reserve troops is S. 644, the Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement or Integration Act, currently being discussed in the Armed Services Committee.

As either of these bills move forward, I will be sure to keep your views in mind.

Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future if I can be of assistance.

Sincerely,
My United States Senator

So.......

Today I found out some good news. They are sending me as the Mess Decks Master-at-Arms. What that means is I am supporting the mess decks to lead the people down there. Not too bad of a job, if you ask me. Plus, on the good side, I don't have to stand duty for around 3 months. Gotta love that. I get my weekends off for the next three weeks, while we are in PSA. The hours sort of suck, but I am ok with that. 0600 to 1500-1600 is okay with me. I don't have to stand duty every six days. And, plus, I get to attend church every week.

Switching topics, I got to watch a ship launch on last night. It was a pretty cool thing to see. I think everyone has seen it done on TV. This is where the person who is the ship's sponsor tries to "break" the bottle of Champagne over the bow, and then they have a controlled slide, I think, where it goes into the water. There was a bunch of fireworks, and stuff. Not too shabby, if you ask me. Then, I got to see the "hydro dynamic effect" they were talking about. The ship next to us is a destroyer, and they were moving all around. We were pretty stable and everything.

Okay, I am going to finish watching the game, and maybe watch some of "Black Hawk Down."

Have a good night!

Shalom,
Ryan

Seeing Gray.....

So, I finished the book "Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White" by Adam Hamiliton. It was a good book. He advocates some good points. But, more important, it was one of the books that made you think about what is going on out there. I think he advocates that certain people just get together and comprise about what is going on. One of the more important topics he covered was about homosexuality. He gave some really good points on the left side and the right side and their arguments. He didn't agree with either side, but he does believe that we need to move forward and stop being stuck in the past. He also talked about abortion pretty well. He again talked about the left and the right sides and their points. He covered some other topics pretty well. I would recommend the book if you wanted to know his point of view on certain topics. I think I covered this earlier.

Anyway, I am standing on watch on the ship today. And, there will be a "dynamic hydro effect" tonight when they launch the USNS Amelia Earhart tonight at 2145. I don't exactly know what a dynamic hydro effect will be but we will find out. I think this will be a pretty cool event. One doesn't get to watch a launching of a new ship. I will tell you about it later!

I hope you guys have a good evening!

Shalom,
Ryan

Blogging

So, I am come to realize that all my friends have started blogging and I should to. Although, I don't exactly know what to write, we will see what happens. I think one of my New Years Resolutions was to this on Myspace, but I think this better. So, here we go:

My week has been good. The first part of the week is okay. Nothing big happened, which is a good thing. I guess you need days like that where nothing is going on. On Wednesday night, there was a pastor from a church in Kansas City called Church of the Resurrection (which from now on will be referred as COR!) His name is Adam Hamiliton. He started this church, I think, in 1990 with four people: his wife and two kids. In 15 years, it has grown to over 14,000 people with an average attendance to around 8,000 people, with 18,000 people on Easter! Wow, to say the least! Anyway, his talk on his lasted book called “Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White” was outstanding! He talked for over an hour and 15 minutes, I think. It was really good. If you are interested, I would check out Amazon or Cokesbury. At the end, I started with this girl sitting in the next pew ahead of me. I had a great conversation with her. She was new to the church, and we talked about a number of stuff before heading over to buy Adam’s latest book. I asked her if she wanted to hang out on Saturday afternoon and she said yes. Hence, today, we hung out this afternoon. It was awesome and I had a blast! Hopefully, she did too!

Now, I am off to bed. I need my beauty sleep before work tomorrow! I have the duty blues! Sucks, I know!

Take care!

Shalom!