Got my IBA today. That's Individual Body Armor for those of you not in the know. I got woodland pattern. I was told I would get the new pattern in Iraq. Anyone want to place a bet? If I don't get it I'll spray paint the stuff I have tan. I have never worn it before & it weighs about 25 pounds. Kind of scary. I hope I never have to rely on it!

We need to wear our battle rattle tomorrow for some training. Of course I wasn't issued a bullet proof hat, holster, canteen, &c. All I got today was the IBA and a bunch of cold weather stuff. HUAW! (Hurry Up And Wait)

Got an email from a friend of mine from "back in the day," which was when we were enlisted guys on active duty. It was great to hear from Senor Fuego Pantalones!

A short story about my weekend before I reported for duty. I spent it in the mountains with my wife and kids. We had a great time hiking & whatnot. When I was checking in to my room I asked for and got the military rate, never hurts to ask. Later at dinner a man approached me and asked if I was in the service, and I replied that I was. He had been behind me in the registration line and had overheard me ask for the military rate. We spoke for a bit and he asked if he could buy me a beer (I demured) and he thanked me for serving. I told him I was leaving in two days and he offered to get my drunk. Turns out he was in 'Nam for a year back in '66 with the 1st Air Cav. My kids were listening to all of this and were favorably impressed. I think that was the moment they realized what was happening to our family. Well, it turns out Ron had picked up our tab for dinner! I know I bitch and moan a lot on my little room in cyberspace, but something like that just makes your year. Ron, if you ever read this, THANK YOU!

I reported th Ft. Gillem on the 10th. Nice folks in the new unit. Looks like my old unit will follow me into Iraq. Someone once told me to be careful of the toes I step on today, as they may be connected to the butts I have to kiss tomorrow!

I had a great room on Ft. McPherson while I inprocessed, but I reported to Ft. McCoy on the 13th. I have my own room while I'm at the reception station, but Monday I get a room with 39 roomates and no AC. The temperature is in the 90's and the food sucks! I think the plan is treat us like dirt so we will look forward to Iraq!

I went to a festival this past weekend and had a great time! I saw some old friends and made some new ones. It was great to see Georgia Paul & his friend, Airborne Patrick, et al.

Scott, thanks for the new shirt and Lisa loved the catsuit, meow baby!

To Dorothy, Mark, Scott, Leah, Cookie, Carin, Adriane, and Margaret, you all made the night Lisa and I drove back home very special. I look forward to seeing you all when I return!