Welcome!

This blog is created as the easiest way for me to communicate with my family and friends, and for them to communicate with me. My posts will be "unclass" for obvious reasons. No dates, locations, times of arrival, etc.

I am a reservist recalled to active duty. In the civilian world I ply my trade as an IT consultant. In the Navy Reserve, I am a Commanding Officer of a joint reserve distribution depot in the American heartland. I was recalled to active duty in April and began processing-in immediately. My destination: Iraq.

As I post today, I have arrived at the CONUS Replacement Center, commonly referred to as CRC, located at Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas. Most members headed to Iraq or Kuwait are processed-in here.

A word about my nature. Those who know me know that I like humor, giving it and receiving it. So, this journal will record what I see and hear, particularly if what I observe makes me smile.

My wife also knows that I often "well up" during movies, and even movie trailers. If I see a story involving a child's untimely death, or a person overcoming a handicap, or the smallest football receiver scoring against all odds, or anything having to do with father and son or father and daughter, I can't run from the sentiment. So, also expect sentiment in this blog.

Last year I spent five months in Bahrain. During that time I was able to attend Mass everyday. I was totally rejuvenated. I turned to my faith to help ease the pain of being away. Of the ten books I brought with me, three are about Pope John Paul II. Expect, therefore, more than a few religious observations here.

Finally, if I see things I can't or shouldn't report real time (death, military details, etc.), I'll maintain a separate journal for those observations and share them at an appropriate time.

Welcome aboard!