Sith Creed

"Peace is a lie. There is only passion. Through passion, I gain strength. Through strength, I gain power. Through power, I gain victory. Through victory, my chains are broken."
-the Sith Creed

18 November 2011

The Day I Came Back To Reality

So I would like to apologize for not writing anything for almost three months. My adventures have been disguised as stress. Stress because I needed to turn in papers or photos or exams or study for tests. I have been very busy. School has taken a hold of me and choked me into a strange submission.

I also find myself awake (like now) thinking of things to come or things to transpire. I have started dating someone and have reached a point in the connection that makes me feel awkward when I am by myself hanging out with friends. Awkward because I feel left out. Like I don't belong in the circle of conversation. Almost like the people I am talking to are not as interesting as the one I want to be with... I don't want to call him my boyfriend or husband but it feels like that so far, which is strange for me. I never felt like this in a long time. I never met someone whom I could identify with so quickly. Hell, our paths crossed on Halloween during an interesting adventure (for the both of us). In the middle of the adventure, I turned to him and asked "Did we just fall for each other and didn't know it?" His reply "You are an idiot." Of course I took it as a yes...

The reason why I say that is because this week in particular, I have not spent the usual amount of money that I have. I have begun to save money so that I can spend time with him, even if our schedules are mismatched. I mean, what is wrong with me? I usually don't go around looking for someone to be in a relationship. But I think I found it. I am not sure. I don't even know what to think. I have been single for so long that I don't even know when someone likes me. Well, likes me for me...

06 September 2011

The Day I Found A Song to Match My Mood

S.P.Y. -By Your Side 

I know this is for the 5th day on the blog challenge but I am slowly catching up.

This song definitely fits my mood all the time. "How am I supposed to try, to love you and be by your side?" It kind of correlates to my first love. This song is an example of how my heart works. As a passionate person, I have not been able to find someone to "love" and still be by their side. Hm...

05 September 2011

The Day I Met My Parents


Hmm… My Parents, this is another difficult thing to write about. Well there is my mom. She is a sweet little lady. She knows I love her. She knows I am gay; she may not like it. She loves to cook; I love to eat. She has a strange sense of humor; it’s had to make her laugh. She has the have certain areas clean; but is at the beginning stages of hoarding. She still smokes cigarettes; and has a strange reason for doing so. She has the ability to humiliate you without using a Single curse word.
Now I started with my mother because she is that one constant in my life. Unlike my father, he does not exist. I was conceived through emasculate conception...

The Day I Had My First Love


So I apologize for not filling in my post for the third day. But I don’t know what to say about my first love… I don’t know what to say about that. I have always been a private person when it comes to my love life. I don’t know what to say or do about my first love. I don’t know who it is or when it was. Or maybe I don’t like to talk about the things of my heart.
Hmm… My first love… I fall in love very easily. So my first love is… I don’t feel comfortable discussing such a thing… This is by far the most difficult thing I could write about…

02 September 2011

The Day I Explained My Blog's Name

Hmmm... The meaning behind my blog name?

I wanted to go with something unique and meaningful. I chose my blog name because I was preparing myself for my trip to Georgia. I am a fan of adventures and decided this would be the "grand" adventure. But I thought about it and realized that I will have multiple adventures, even when I am engaged within one. To me, an adventure is a journey from which you learn and grow. I am always learning and growing.

As for Bacon Bandit, I wanted to use that nickname for the uniqueness. I will explain that nickname fully on the 16th. On that day I get to discuss my nicknames fully as part of the blog challenge.

01 September 2011

The Day I Introduced Myself

Day 1:




I chose this picture because I took it during my first Pride celebration. I had just finished signing a petition for the military to recognize same sex marriages for benefits. I had picked on the Army and Air Force guys because I am a Marine. Another of the petitioners, gave me a rubber duck wearing dress blues. It was the last one they had. 
The shirt I am wearing is one of my favorites. I bought it maybe a few days prior. It is from EpicMealTime. Which leads me into my fifteen facts about myself...

1. I love Bacon.
2. I love the Marine Corps. I am slightly conflicted on rejoining.
3. I am a smart ass, a natural flirt, and extremely passionate.
4. I can learn any language fairly quickly.
5. My modesty and humility are very high. 
6. I am a Ninja.
7. I have a large collection of underwear (borderline obsession).
8. Large bodies of water calm me or make me think.
9. I own 6 different cameras, each with a unique quality, and my newest one bought last night for $25.
10. I am honest and straight forward; I respect the same out of people.
11. I fall in love easily.
12. I am a sexual creature. Not that I have sex all the time, but my actions and mannerisms are sexual in nature.
13. Six is my favorite number.
14. I am highly competitive and will take on any challenge within my means...
15. I am fascinated by mirrors and reflections except when I am looking at myself.

New Beginnings

Hello, again. I have to apologize for the delay. I have been in a difficult bout with time management. School has been kicking my butt for a while. I am slowly catching up with my school work.

And to honor that, I have decided to participate in the 30-day blog challenge (it might turn into the 60). I have to get in the habit of writing everyday. Not that there has been much to talk about. My adventures have been mild and meek or short and intense.

Today is the first day of me quitting smoking, the first day of working on my photography full-fledged, the day I fill out college applications to universities, the day I plan out other photo shoots, the day I turn my life around and live forever!

03 August 2011

The Day I Wore Red

Well as the first post of the month, I am doing a slack as job. I apologize. My school has been a little demanding of my time and energy. Awesome as it is for me to go out and take pictures all over the place. Problem with that is I have not been in front of my laptop for a few days. Well, not long enough to place an entry here.

My adventures are increasing in frequency and intensity. I love it! For instance, I went to Chasers Saturday. I wore a red shirt, my Ed Hardy jeans and my Marine Corps jockstrap for shock factor (and because I wanted to impress a boy...)

I met up with one of my friends at Chasers because the boy wasn't there *thumbs down*. So my friend took me to Scorpios. This is one of the first clubs I went in order to meet and greet the gay community here in Charlotte. Well once we got there, Elaine, the host Drag Queen, was already on the floor doing her number. I peeled through the crowd so that she could see me (she has a thing for me...).

As I made eye contact with her, she said "Oh there is that mother fucker I met at McDonald's who told me he was straight"

I couldn't help but smile. So I sauntered up to her by way of skirting the edge of the crowd. She asked how I was doing. I replied with a "fine". She then decided that I needed to go out and dance in the middle of the club.

"Uh... But I have on a jockstrap. I don't think I am allowed to show that much." I told her.

Next thing I knew, she is pushing me out into the middle of the floor and telling the DJ to play something for me. I was stuck. I slowly pulled my shirt off and then jerked my pants down to the floor. The crowd went wild. And I did what came naturally. I danced. From that moment on I was known as the "boy in the red shirt".

23 July 2011

Piece of Meat

Well I had an interesting night last night. I proved that I can be a formidable foe at the strip club. I danced. I flirted. I made it known that I am truly the definition of masculine. I don't know what those guys thought.

I wasn't doing the same things the other boys were doing. I wasn't letting the clients do whatever they wanted. It was nice to know that I had that control and that power. *evil laugh*

But on the other spectrum, I am glad I am not like some of the other guys. Further degrading themselves. Like there was on patron who was giving me a dollar and the music abruptly changed which in turn caused me to stop dancing and the guy said "Aww. You broke the illusion." Uh... I am real. I don't do illusions. *shrugs*

20 July 2011

Point of Impact

I am slowly becoming something I can't describe.
After class yesterday, I went to Bar at 316 to lock down a place for my photoshoot tomorrow. I met up with a guy who we have a mutual crush on each other. But low and behold, something happens where I have to depend on him, financially. Ugh. I am too independent so that is a big pet peeve of mine.
But that is not the reason why I have this blog. It is where it started. It is also the basis for dilemma that my story is built upon.

Feeling incapable, I left the bar and headed home. Throughout my trip, I grew more and more intoxicated after my last few drinks. My mind also started to wander further and further into darkness. I started to blame and point fingers and accuse. As my mind went darker and darker, I approached an intersection. A Land Rover pulled out onto West Blvd. My mind instantly cleared and envisioned a car coming over the hill.

Sure enough, a white Dodge Neon crested the hill. I braced for impact. I didn't want to get hurt by a random wheel, shards of glass or a whole vehicle. I yelled "Holy Shit!" as loud as I could. That was more of a reaction to the fact that I just witnessed an accident. The Land Rover tried to flee but with a wound on its back driver side leg it limped all over the street trying to dig a path through a telephone pole.

It sped off into the darkness leaving the Dodge Neon defenseless. Then he too sped off in the opposite direction. I felt relieved to have survived such an ordeal.

18 July 2011

The Turn of Events

Well I just had another wonderful day. Spent most of it in class. I had a very horrible morning to start off. But once I got going I was doing well. My life has gotten a lot more busy than what I was expecting. I might not be able to continue this blog as regularly as I wanted but then again I didn't do that well last month.
So I am off to the gym, at least I will try to maintain that...

17 July 2011

The Fear of Unknown

Hmm... So I am not really afraid of the unknown. I actually welcome it. It has been that one factor in my life that I can't control.
For instance, I actually won something today. I was able to win a pair of teamm8 swim trunks. They have a random drawing by posting a picture of the product and all you have to do is like or leave a comment. I was a bit skeptical about but it is legit.
So now I am waiting on a pair of teamm8 swim trunks so that I can sport them. I am extremely excited. It is also a great indication at how my luck is starting to turn around. I have to slowly ride this wave until I can get to a good point.

The Shield Of Set

Well now that I am starting to be more into photography, I have made another blog purely dedicated to my photography. It is called Shield of Set. I figure that would be a good way to represent the chaotic and unknown side of my photography. I really have no direction yet. I have a goal but sadly there is no path for me to walk down so that I may be fully successful.
Once that path opens and presents itself, the other half of my photography will appear.

15 July 2011

The Winds of Change

Well, sorry for not writing in a few days. This week I started class. So I have had to my homework on my spare time, which is slowly being eaten up. In actuality, I never really had any free time.

But either way, hello, I am writing to kind of get you up to speed on the adventures I have been embarking. Like I said, I have started class this week. It was very interesting. I think I will enjoy being a photographer. It seems like easy money. I get to use my own creativity. *shrugs* Nonetheless I am having fun. Sadly enough, I have been getting wasted while I shoot, which is a bad habit. But I have been getting some good shots.

11 July 2011

Next thing we are touching...

I had an awesome day today. The first thing was my 8am class. Conquered it. That class will be an easy A. I pretty much dominated that class with knowledge. Pfft... the fundamentals of photography. Humph! *laughs* But nonetheless I have homework that I haven't even started on; but then again I want to get a new memory card for my camera.
After that I did my usual by going to the gym. Just going there has made me get back into the groove that I have solidified for myself. I even got a compliment today. Now all I need to do is go for a run without a shirt... Hmmm.

10 July 2011

My Wrath is not to be taken lightly...

I recieved a stupid email and told the person not to respond to why I thouhgt it was stupid. And here is my response to their reaction.


“How dare you assume that I'm not intellectual?” -You ask this when it is obviously an interjection. Intellectualism is beyond just knowing what is going on in the news today and being able to comment on it. I think Obi-Wan said it best to JarJar “Just because you can speak does not mean you are intelligent…”

“First and foremost, you've never even met me so you can't just judge my intelligence based on the statement that I made previously.”  -No. I have not. But thankfully through the thirteen years I have been dating: going through ups, downs, “arounds”, broken hearts and broken promises and objectified glances; I have built a system that protects me from all of the fluff that randomly presents itself.

“That just tells me that you don't take the time to get to know people and their personalities and for that, I already feel sorry for you.”  -Ha! At what point in time did you take the time to get to know me? “What happenin my man,” is the reason why you received my question. Like I said before, it was a rhetorical, psychological ultimatum that trapped you into yet another disappointing piece of writing that you would have to voraciously read… You failed at handling constructive criticism. You failed at being tactful and sincere. And you mainly failed at skipping chapters. Every book starts with an introduction. It is the author’s purpose to attract and entice the reader to read more. Your introduction lacked imagination meaning I have probably heard that a dozen times from the undesirables I have designed these protective measures against. Ergo, you are undesirable to me… Big shocker, huh? Guess I don’t need you to feel sorry for me. I can damn well take care of myself. I feel sorry for the tears you are shedding right now because of this healthy dose of honesty you are receiving. *shrugs*

“A helpful tip for the future if you want to keep anyone in your life...don't judge a book by it's cover.”–A helpful tip for YOUR future is to not talk to someone who has more experience in life than you have pictures in your scrapbook. By the time you were born, I had survived nearly drowning to death, a freak air show accident (Rammstein, 1988, Google it), witnessed two Germanys turn into one, saved a friend’s life, defended my family’s honor, loved and lost and plant the seeds of my great ability of writing which you are sadly witnessing.

 “You might actually even learn something for a change.” –I did learn something, the fact that you have no idea what you have unleashed. I warned you before you decided to write what I just broke down and fed back to you.

“BTW I'm a voracious reader and consider myself very mundane in socio-political affairs.” –IGAF (I Gives A Fuck) I am a predatory writer with a literary psychological opposable thumb, which I just used to craft a light machine-gun rebuttal loaded with five hundred words of pure hate.

The Preparation

Today like yesterday has been in preparation for my first day of class tomorrow. It is the culmination of what I have wanted since getting out of the Marine Corps. I wanted to hang out with friends that I have made or just sit around and do nothing. Though, I can't. I am about to embark on another adventure that I cannot yet describe. I will be going to the Art Institute of Charlotte for photography. It has come to my attention that I should have followed one of my dreams. And starting tomorrow, I will be on that path of doing so.
There is no amount of luck that can be bestowed upon me but I realize I will have enough time to work on another of my hobbies, writing. Hmmm. What if you are witness to the fruition of my dreams as you read this?

09 July 2011

Lcpl Bishop

Today, is a day of silent reflection. Three years ago, I lost a friend while I was on a deployment. I met him within the three months of training and shedding my new boot scent. His name is Thomas Bishop. As one of the first Marines I could identify with, he showed me how to ignore any negative comments that would be directed my way. We had the same interests: dance, showing off, making people laugh, smart assed comments at the right time. And as a fellow Aquarian, we could see eye to eye on some of the more difficult issues.
2008 was a long year for me.  I was deployed to Iraq at the beginning of April. There were many from my unit who were not able to come along. Bishop was one of them. I wish he was able to join us on that deployment. He cracked my shell open and made me feel comfortable around everyone. I will miss him so much. He definitely shaped who I am to this day.

06 July 2011

The Tuesday that thought it was a Monday

Hello everyone,

Sorry for the delay. My life has taken on a sort of high speed chase into the unknown. From the 1st of July til now, I have been having some fun and some boredom.

The weekend of the 4th presented on of my friends from the Marine Corps. I was excited and surprised for his visit. Especially since he is the first of my Marine Corps friends to visit me.  I took him to all of my usual places of hanging out. I showed him around Charlotte as best I could. We even went to Carowinds, the local amusement park. By far one of the best weekends ever.

He didn't stay too long as he wanted to visit a friend in Raleigh. But the time spent was a great time.

28 June 2011

And I am caught within a spider's loom

I apologize again for the delay.  The continuation of my VA story begins now:

With those stupid glasses, I walked around in search of food and drink (as you know, I love to eat). I pulled them off and squinted at the bright lights of the main lobby. I walked to the right because I heard that was where the food and drink were. I came to an older couple serving coffee and snack cakes. That would have to hold me over til I can leave, I thought to myself.

I gingerly sipped on my coffee and walked back to my chair in the office. Right before I sat down, a gentleman spoke up and told me that my name was called while I was gone. He relayed the message to me that I could go and get something to eat. Then he pointed me outside where there was a hot dog stand. Something I completely missed.

Once I finished my hot dog, I walked around a bit outside. Then had the feeling that I needed to go back inside. Low and behold I was right. I walked back in at the right time. My name had been called to see the next doctor. I quickly walked to the waiting area I would be called into.

And of course I had to wait.

My head was about to make contact with my shoulder when I heard my name. I was filled with glee. This was the last appointment and I get to go home.

The doctor sat me down and started to ask a bunch of questions. My head was spinning from having to answer so much at one time. After each question, she would examine that part of the body I was claiming was in pain. And her tests weren't friendly. Some I was tickled, others I was poked; I even had some kind of rake scrape the bottom of my foot. I was starting to feel like I was going through processing all over again. All of her tests were strange and felt weird.

One of her tests, the thyroid test, gave me the most memorable line. She looked me head on and cocked her head to the side. She grabbed my neck and felt around, then she took a step back.
"Do you do special exercises for your neck?" She asked.
"No. Why?" I countered.
"Because you have a band of muscle around your neck. It will be difficult to test your thyroid," she explained.
"It is probably from eating..." I chuckled. She couldn't help but laugh as well.

From there, she finished up her tests and sent me to get some x-rays. I confidently talked my way through the x-ray, so that it would go by quickly. And it didn't.

After that I was free to go back to Charlotte. And I have to go back again on the 7th... I can't wait to see what happens then.

25 June 2011

Til Flowers cease to bloom

I apologize for leaving everyone in suspense about the conclusion of my story. I have had a few things progress and develop constricting me into a kind of lull that I couldn't wake myself from. I will finish the story throughout the week. I have some important appointments and obligations that will help me become more focused and comfortable with writing some of my exploits. I am the one who has to catch up on my stories. Again I apologize.

15 June 2011

From twilight to high noon

(cont.)

I sat in a chair that was meant for someone larger than me. I felt small and insignificant. My stomach churned at the thought of someone filling the chair that could fit two of me, comfortably. I twiddled my thumbs with impatience.

The lady behind the counter called my name. I stood and walked towards her. She had a look of discontent on her face. My churning stomach took a bite out of my heart. Something was wrong.

"Apparently, I cannot find your C-File," she exclaimed.

I thought, "What the hell is a C-File?" And that is when my heart gave my stomach gas... "It is probably the one file everyone needs to do this check-up. Shit!"

"Your first appointment will not see you without that file. I will get your next appointment started. The doctor said he will see you without the file." Sybil said.

I thanked her and followed her to the next waiting room. The sign above the door read: Eye Exams. I quivered and then my stomach burped and took another bite of my heart. My eyes are precious to me. You cannot be a photographer with bad eyes, I think. I was lead into Dr. Green's office.

I sat down on the chair. I grew nervous. I hate being at the doctor's office. It is always a scary jarring of questions disguised as examinations which is another word for tests...

And then it began. The bright lights, reading very fine print posted on a wall, guessing at letters. My hands started to sweat. My breathing went haywire. I couldn't focus. My stomach took the final bite of my heart.

"Well, it looks like you have 20/15 vision. You can see a little better than normal." He said.

*sighs* "Wait. What?" I was confused. I was trying to fail this test to that I could get some benefits. I fail at failing.

After telling me my results of my ability to see time and space individually. He told me to lean my head back. I gasped out loud. Drops! I hate putting liquids into my eyes... And to make it worse this was an anesthetic, meaning he was going to touch my eyeball. Ew! I don't even touch my own eye balls.

I held my stomach which just enjoyed the last bit of heart I had left. I bit the bullet and braced for the touching. Blinking felt like a chore. I hated that feeling. My eyes teared up. I was leaking all over the place.

He told me to lean my head back once again. This time it was colored drops. Ugh! Now I get to see in color?!?! What kind of test is this? I mustered another ounce of courage (I guess I should use the metric system since most of my readers are not American), liter of courage... Through the yellow haze covering my eyes and my strain to see correctly. I felt like Cyclops after someone removed his visor. I was scared yellow beams would shoot out of my eyes disintegrating Dr. Green. After touching all over my naked eyes, he ushered me back to the waiting room. With dilated pupils, numb eyes, and those annoying uncool shades the docs give you, I waited...

(to be continued...)

As I bask in the rays of a full moon

Well like I said, if there are no adventures there are no stories. So guess what happened today. Yup, you guessed it. An adventure.

I woke up this morning at about 5:30a to the sound of my grandfather telling me the time. I was probably still drunk from last night, so getting out of the bed turned into an escalation of force. I threw the blankets off of me and literally fell out of bed. I stood up, morning wood barely contained in my underwear. There was no mistaking it.  I was awake way too early for my taste.

I quickly drew a bath and prepared myself for the day. A quick shave and a quick scrub (didn't want to look like a bag of ass when I got to the VA clinic). I moved slowly, well slower than the speed of light because I needed to be outside by 6:15a. Once my clothes were on, I was able to realize what time it was. 5:55a. Awesome, just enough time to check the FB (Facebook) and maybe look at some dirty pictures.

My phone chimed a text message. "Here", it said. I closed my laptop and headed for the door.

Stopping by the fridge, I grabbed my Frappucino I stored away in the fridge the night prior. I told my grandfather goodbye and bounded out the door. I jumped into my friend's SUV. And we streaked down the road to Winston-Salem.

I gobbled my coffee drink quickly. I still was not awake. My friend and me talked about anything and everything during the drive. We are both not morning people.

We arrived at the VA clinic on time. I sauntered into the building. Those five Guinness's were starting to leave a mark of their attack. My head was pounding and aching. Bad mixture...

I walked up to the counter in the main lobby, stood in line for awhile before being called. The lady behind the counter pointed me into the direction I needed to go. I walked a few feet then turned around. I had forgot the room number just that quickly.

From there, I was stuck waiting...

(to be continued...)

10 June 2011

East of the Black Sea

I know I have not been making any posts. I have begun a thought process that I am not ready to put down on blog paper. Plus they are a bit personal. *laughs* And you are probably thinking to yourself. Well it can't possibly be any more personal than what you have written so far. No it is not. It is personal but it is something that has been bothering me for a while. And at the moment I am formulating what I want to say. I am pre-writing my blog before posting it. I want what I have to say grasp your attention and keep it for a while. I have alot to say and I don't want to get anything out of order.

Plus it has gotten to the point where I voice my own opinion about the world around me.

07 June 2011

West of Mayberry

West of Mayberry

Kinda funny how in my search for porn I come across this page. It did the one thing I needed at this time. Inspire. Don't know what or how it inspired but it did. Once I finish this post, I will thank Tony.

Don't get me wrong, I love porn. Isn't that what the internet is for? *laughs*

I burn then procure

I can't keep still. I am always looking for an adventure of sorts. I know this is the time for me to just relax and recharge after my last adventure, but I can't hold back my feelings. It is consuming and controlling me. This next adventure is taking me to The Art Institute of Charlotte. I feel that I need to enroll in their one year program just to keep busy. *laughs* I am acting like a superhero always searching for the bad guy. Yet I am no one special. Just an ordinary guy wandering the Earth.

Edit: So it is about 2 hours after the first part of this post. I should have just made a new post but I would have been short. Unfortunately, I cannot go to the Art Institute. I don't have a few things I need to complete the process. I am extremely angry because every time I do something. There is always another thing holding me back or preventing me from getting there...

06 June 2011

A yearn so pure

Well, I have solved the commenting problem. I didn't pay attention to what was being said.

I would also like to apologize for the wane in adventuring. But if you think about it, every adventure is preceded by a small break for repair, recharge, replenish, and any other "re-" action necessary for the next mission. And so keeping with the spirit of adventure. I found more notes from my deployment to Afghanistan.

     Kyrgyzstan- Feb 15th, 2010:
The stop over in Romania was not what I expected. Kinda disappointed but not. Didn't see any vampires, hell I didn't even get the chance to smoke. No one did. Apparently, the whole country didn't want us to smoke there. I also found it strange to walk through an international airport and see it empty. Like closed empty. Not empty because we are American troops traveling through. But empty because "we the people of Romania do not want to be responsible for the deaths of people by vampires". The place was deserted. And I am throughly convinced that vampires exist.

At the moment, I am sitting in Something-or-rather-stan. Waiting for our flight. There is a large GP tent. It is fucking cold. Somewhere around 22 degrees I heard. Now I am going to sleep because I don't know what else to do.

     Kandahar- Feb 16th, 2010
We landed in Kandahar at the same time as the sunset. The golden glow of the sun sank into the purple hue of the approaching night. The plane settled into its unloading position. We exited and went to a tent for a brief. So glad it is not cold here...

This base is a labyrinth of Hesco, Jersey, and Tee barriers. The darkness accentuated the gloomy maze in which anyone can get lost.

The morning shall prove different...

     Camp Leatherneck Day 2- Feb 19th 2010
Tensions grew high yesterday. I had to diffuse and redirect. Some of the Junior Marines do not understand what has to happen. Still bashing others for what they themselves do not know. This deployment will definitely be a test for everyone.

The fighting (against the Taliban) has gotten to the point where anything can happen. A Hymars Rocket is heard flying out of the base every so often. I am still ready for what this may bring.

--- Just a glimpse into the first few days of my second deployment. It was scary to be in a situation like that and not know what would happen next. Stories of ANA (Afghan National Army) turning on the very Marines who trained them.

03 June 2011

A virus with no cure

So I found out today that I am an idiot. I disabled all comments and was wondering why this whole time. Then again I am still a bit new at this. So please bear with me. Sorry for asking you to leave a comment when I didn't make it possible.

And so, I will leave you with another one of my prized stories from my past deployment titled "Hunt for the yellow papers". I hope you enjoy it

03-06-2011
The Roots of the Gagglefuck Tree Grow Strong

*2300 There were about 3 Marines walking around with flashlights. No one knew what they were doing, not even the Marines themselves. Kennedy was one of them. He was out by himself looking for four yellow pages.

*2330 Found out what those pages were. Apparently, classified BOLO lists, which I don't believe. Some how they blew away from the ECP during a sandstorm earlier in the day.

*0230 I saw a UFO flying by. Or at least two. I was kinda freaked out by it.

*0315 Uh. It flew by again and was able to get Earnest and Sterling to see it.

*0730 Finally off the tower and now being woken up. Wanted to sleep while on ORF. Had a feeling that wasn't going to happen. Didn't know what was going on when we drove to the BDOC but I had a feeling it was for the yellow pieces of paper. They were not found the night prior (and could be somewhere in the desert) and now with light outside, we had to look for them.

*0820 Forty minutes before the end of our shift, still no papers. The wind definitely blew them away. Had to of...

*0830 Yeah, they didn't blow away. They had them all along. Apparently, someone thought there were pages missing because the page numbers went: 2, 3, 4, 9. We went looking for classified NATO intel that didn't exist. And those pages that blew away... At the ECP the whole time. Things are fucking ridiculous...

--There you have it. One of my oldies but goodies. I am still working on my recap of the last few days of  my Georgian visit. Kinda hard to recap when your friends are not there to help you and on top of that they don't speak English that well.
And as a disclaimer, the names were changed to protect the innocent. Because they are innocent...

02 June 2011

Always an Adventure

I was looking around my journals and writings and found this dated March 24th, 2010:  We got stuck last night. The River nearly swallowed Willie's truck. It took us forever to get it out. As usual, there were too many chiefs and not enough Indians. I just sat in the turret and provided security, mainly because no one was wearing flaks or kevlars, running around lost as hell. *laughs* It took all three trucks to get that one truck out.

That was from my deployment in Afghanistan. I am still trying to organize and piece together every thing from the past few days. I don't know where to start. Plus I am in the process of being responsible. Looking for a job and all that sweet jazz. Leaves no room for adventures right now. Going to have to use this time to recap on some old adventures and stories.

01 June 2011

A new day...

So, I woke up today and stared at this blank page wondering how I was going to start this new month. Have my adventures ended once I set foot upon American soil? What is next for me in this world? Why are there so many missing pieces and gaps in everything? What is the point to all of these questions?

29 May 2011

Soaking with something so pure

So, my day has been fun filled with searching for music on YouTube. Kinda lame, I know. But I am trying to avoid drinking. I have two days left and want to make sure I don't miss my plane. Which is what everyone is planning, I think.

Also, while I was roaming around the musical halls of YouTube. (pause to change song). I watched one of my friends blow 17 GEL on an online roulette website. Roulette, all day, everyday. I should drag these guys to Las Vegas and let them experience the dangers of gambling... But then again, it wouldn't change anything. Well maybe the fact that I don't know where anyone gets their money from. Like my buddy who gambled away a day's worth of food... I have not see him even go to a job. Which is kinda strange coming from me, who just left the Marine Corps and currently unemployed... But I am itching to get back to the states so that I can start a job of sorts. So that I can plan out my next trip. Might have to be after my Semester of college. *shrugs* I don't know. Still trying to meet someone willing to show me far off lands...

...

Yesterday was the worst. Well, I had a horrible stomach and couldn't get rid of it. The whole day was long and painful. I don't know what I ate to make me feel like that but I am better now. *laughs* I tried everything: water, tea, a little bit of bread, nothing helped. I found that a little bit of sleep got me through it. And by a little bit, I mean, a lot.

I really don't have anything planned for today. I packed my suitcase already and did a quick inventory of all of my belongings. I am slightly sad to be going but I have to go back. There are a few things I need to take care of. Things I have caused with my chaotic ways.

28 May 2011

Expensive in taste

I would like to apologize for the slightly not-so-interesting posts. I am a bit depressed because I am leaving in a few days. I kinda don't want to go. I think it is the fear of being boring that lies ahead. I am going to be working a 9 to 5, going to the gym and such. Not what you would expect from someone who travels the world just to satisfy his wunderlust.

And so I wonder. When is my next trip? Where will it be? I really haven't had anyone respond to my blog and there have been some hits from all over the world. So, I say to you, reader, give me some ideas on my next trip. I love to travel and this is the type of escapism that I enjoy.

One of my gifts is my ability to learn a language really quick. I am the Tower of Babel, all languages are not difficult to me.

Expensive at cost

Wow. Sorry for not writing these past couple of days. Ever since Independence day, I have been on a sort of drinking binge. So I will do my best to recap.

The 25th was the Georgian Independence Day. I had a lot of fun. I basically sat around drinking wine and watching the parade on tv. From there I don't remember much. Somehow I hit my head right above my left eye. It still hurts. Apparently it was swollen as well. *laughs* I must have headbutted something. *shrugs*

The 26th I went to old Tbilisi (or downtown as it is called) and did some shopping. Bought a flag, some drinking horns and a sweet military bag. It is old school. I still need a sword but I don't think I would be able to take that on the plane. Maybe next time.

Yesterday, well, I got into a fight. It was bound to happen. I kinda caused the situation that spurred the fight. It felt good to show my angry side. Proves to others that I am not weak or defenseless and that I am not afraid to fight what I believe in. And of course it took a large group of people to hold me back.

26 May 2011

Expensive yet lost

So today is the Georgian Independence day. I am celebrating like anyone would. Beer, wine, barbecue. Like Americans can do.

Expensive in cost

I love the passionate actions of people. And this country is full of passion. I met a girl from Tennessee yesterday. She is an English teacher. She speaks Georgian better than I can. But I found it cute that the girls on the playground were wanting me to flirt with her. The only thing we have in common is the fact that we speak English and the children were trying to set us up. *laughs*

I was flattered. Such a basis of love. It is a good thing, too. I might have to bring this concept of love to America. Where there is no such thing...

As it was a new thing lost

Just had another bathhouse experience...

I went on this trip not expecting a sexcapade and it fell into my lap. Last night, I sang a song of my life. I told two individuals my struggles and strife. They listened. They grew anxious. They took a breath and bared their souls. I showed them the best part of my life. They soaked it in and never asked why I had a wife. We skipped through puddles deep. Dodging rain drops and the occasional sleet. My clothes were soaked to the bone. The taxi pulled up and stopped. I was not alone.

The taxi swerved and weaved with the traffic. I touched myself, scratching the everlasting itch. I drank the air and took in the switch. The cab stopped. I stepped out into the rain soaked air and twitched. I crawled sensually to the baths. Down the stairs into the steam soaked air. My heart raced my body to the finish line.

My foot entered the hot water and I grew alert. I touched their itch to scratch mine. I drowned myself in the steam soaked air. I didn't think it would ever be there. I felt and touched till everything that belonged to me. The moment. The skin. The water. The air. The instant.

I laid on the marble slab and drank more of the air. I took a sip of beer and a sip of moment.

And now I am awake from a dream that I lived. Refreshed. Energized. Anew.

25 May 2011

And yet I will it there to be found

I just got done eating the one thing that I love in this world and I am high off of it. Bacon. It was cooked the wrong way but it was cooked. I have to educate these people on the ways of cooking bacon. It is like a god to me. It has to be cured and cut and cooked the right way. Anything other is just unsat.

I didn't think I would catch a buzz from bacon but I did. I love it so much. Why does it do this to me? I have never had a drug that made me feel the way that bacon does... And why is that? *scratches head* Why do I love a meat so dirty?

I was offered Bacon raw. As much as I want to eat it raw I do not love it that way. I suffered some battle scars just to have it cooked (it was cooked in a layer of oil [faux pas] on high heat). But I had it cooked. Apparently here in Georgia, bacon is to be eaten raw. Bad choice. I don't like it raw there is nothing there as far as flavor... But I guess that is what I am going to teach in the morning...

23 May 2011

When it was never there to begin with

Well the real world catches up to me... I am confined to the four walls of my friend's room waiting for him to return from work. He wants to go to the embassy today. Guess that is not happening. I am sure they won't take anyone after a certain time just like most American ran establishments...

I am a fan of things happening not for a reason. Chaos is a beautiful thing to me. I need it to function sometimes. I need it to help me see the flaws in the flawless. It is the fire that helps me regrow. It is the karma that comes to collect its debt.

*laughs* I don't know why I fret over such small and insignificant things. With Chaos, I know I will make it through whatever is bothering me (which is my wander lust).

Nero- Solid Air

Just to search for what needs to be found.

*sighs*

22 May 2011

Then take another moment to unwind

Ahhhh. Such a relaxing day. It is already noon and I am bored. Something that I do not like. But I need this time to just chill. Been drinking everyday since I came here to Georgia. I have to give my liver a break. As the only organ in my body that can regenerate cells, I need to do some regeneration. As I said in my last post, I love to drink alcohol. I also love my use of moderation. I am not like my nineteen year old self searching for my next buzz or trying to see how many brews I can knock back before I wake up in some strangers bed (which has happened more often than not). Ever since I went to California, I had been on a personal quest to try a different beer wherever I go. That has been the extent of my drinking. *laughs* I may not remember the name of the beer but most times I can remember the way it tastes or something notable about it. For instance, I drank a stout beer, name unknown, and I remember describing it as "a pint of Guinness with a shot of whiskey and bourbon mixed in". Or a British beer I must try, Royal Virility, somehow someway someone decided to add Viagra to a beer. Really? I mean, really? That is the perfect counteract to whiskey dick. (And I hate whiskey dick. HATE.)

But of the things I have drank here in Georgia, I really enjoy the wine (ghwino, as it is called). Actually, I like how it is drank. It is not like European or American wines where you sip on it. You drink it like a shot in a glass that holds about 4 shots. It is not strong tasting, most times it is sweet. The only problem that I have with it is: How do I bring it back to the States? It isn't prepackaged or bottled at some factory. It is a homemade national specialty. Lots of problems at Customs (and I don't want problems...). I don't want to get on the subject of the dangers of Ch'ach'a, another Georgian specialty. That stuff is like the Brad Pitt and David Beckham child of liquors (I credit Daniel Tosh for the analogy). Imagine dumping a bottle of 151, a bottle of Everclear, a bottle of unflavored Schnapps, a dash of Reggae, and an eye of newt into a large black cauldron during the first light of winter's first full moon. The result is ch'ach'a. It is some potent stuff. And it is flammable (refer back to Customs), so taking some home is impossible. *laughs* Carrying that on a plane is as bad as the movie "Snakes on a Plane", actually that is what you use to defeat the snakes on said plane...

Take a breath and rewind

Yesterday was quite uneventful. And by uneventful, I mean nothing super fantastic happened.

I was dragged out of the house to a restaurant to take pictures of a dog. When I was taken there to buy beer and food. I have problems with paying for things. I am a very giving person but if I am a means to your next fix, I can't do that. Don't get me wrong. I love to drink and have a good time but making up some bogus photo op is not a good way to get me to drink.

On a good note, I did meet a nice group of people. I think they own the restaurant, not quite sure. And I will go back to eat and drink. Sandro, the more interesting of the group, brought his dog so that I may snap a quick photo. He spoke English very well and was not shy to speak it. Which is something I have noticed about some of the people who speak English; some are shy about it, others are not. So I spoke with him for a while before I started to feel uncomfortable because my friend's dad started asking around for beers.

On the same note, later on that night, my friend's dad comes in the room with a Ukrainian guy he met somehow. We talked for a bit until the Ukrainian asked if I wanted to drink. Then I realized why this random guy is here. My friend's dad was looking for another drink.

It breaks my heart to the fullest. How do you address an issue with someone with whom you can barely speak their language? Especially if our languages have a lot of gaps and lack similarities.

Wow, reading through this again (mainly for proofreading), I realize I am all over the place on topics. Hmmm. They are related but not that much. Sorry for that.

21 May 2011

Then I took a moment to slow down

The taxi ride from the train yesterday was intense. And as I was clutching my bag tighter and tighter, I couldn't help but notice the street signs zipping passed my window. There were none...

The occasional "Do not enter" or "This way only" (both represented by an arrow or a white line) would appear. But there was no stop signs, yield signs, or better yet speed limit signs. I felt like I was in  a Need For Speed game. Need for Speed: Tbilisi Nights. Before I leave I will make a video of how the driving is around here. I fear for my life when I cross the street about the same as if I was in the taxi or autobus.

So I don't ever want to hear anyone complain about the drivers in the U.S., it is crazier here and American drivers wouldn't last one red light here.

19 May 2011

...

So I woke up on the train two minutes out from Tbilisi with the worst case of morning wood. Very awkward. I hope no one saw it. Then I had to walk around the train station with it. Horrible.

But that is not the reason I write at this moment. I have returned to Tbilisi. And Goga is nowhere to be found. Hmmm. Apparently, his at work but I thought he was done with the military. I must search for him.

Wondering how I will ever climb out

Nero- Innocence

Well I am waiting for the train back to Tbilisi. I kinda don't want to go back but I have to. I want to see Goga again. I miss him. He is the reason I am here in Georgia. I feel bad for sneaking away and coming to Batumi. I came here under the pretense that I could change. I didn't.

I still feel the same way that I felt when I came here. I don't know why I even tried to change. It is almost too late in the game for me. In a sense, I have changed. My Georgian is a lot better. I can understand more and I know how to say a few more key phrases. I also understand that I am a undaunting and faithful friend. My thoughts have been about seeing Goga again.

18 May 2011

Only to stand at the bottom of another hole

I went up another mountain yesterday. It was a lot closer than the 18 kilometer walk but it was a good hike. Didn't stay long. We climbed up looked at the church that was atop the mountain and looked out onto Batumi. It was a beautiful sight. There was a lot of moisture in the air preventing a good picture. Maybe next time.

17 May 2011

Climbing out of a hole covered in blood, dirt and sweat

I had an interesting dream last night. I dreamt I was on here typing away. But instead of telling you what I was doing I was also telling you how I felt (something I know I was not doing).

"If you don't tell people how you feel, then people won't know how you feel." -Me

Yeah, I said that. Many times over. I don't remember when I coined the quote, however it has been my defining quality. The first time was when I was eightteen and came out to my mother. The most recent time was yesterday  when I explained to my friends here that I am not a fountain of money. Or how sometimes I feel like a prisoner instead of a guest.

I am much to independent for such things. So if there is ever a time in which you are talking with someone and you are not quite seeing eye to eye, maybe you need to say how you feel. Truthfully. They will be quicker to understand.

About when I was filled with saddness and regret

I am in beautiful Batumi, Georgia. The weather is much nicer and the people are a little more nicer than those in Tbilisi. There are a lot hot guys. And a lot more English speaking Georgians. Which helps me out a bit. They are also a little more friendlier than Tbilisi people. For instance, while roaming around I came across a high school. There happened to be one of the locals I met yesterday, which I didn't know he was still in high school. *laughs* He ran out of the gate to greet me. Since it was his last day, he wore a white shirt to be written on by all of his friends. He asked me to write on his shirt as well. I tried to write "James was here" in Georgian. I failed. I was only able to get "Jeimsi was here". The funny part is while I was signing his shirt. The girls snuck outside as well and asked to have their picture taken with me. It was funny and felt good. I felt like a rockstar. Or at least that is what I think...

Finding words so that I can speak

Well, well, well. I just came back from the bathhouse with two of my friends. Glorious. Best part is an employee (I guess that what he was) came in with a bucket and sponges. I think to myself what is about to happen?

I watched him scrub down one of my friends first. My first thought was baseball. Then I had to think about Roseanne Barr. Then Roseanne Arnold. I then puked into my mouth at the double dose of Roseanne. (Sorry Rosey if you read this...)

Then it was my turn... I was ready. No chub. Roseanne filtered eyes. I was set. I laid down on the marble bed and braced for impact. The scrub was rough; I think I lost a tattoo in the process, not quite sure. After that, the lather. Yum. Lather. That was a gentle slathering of bubbles. I have never been cleaned like that and probably will do again. And again. And again...

The day we first met

More from the zoo experience...

Me, Gia and Goga went to the bumper cars. That was a lot of fun. I spent most of the time driving backwards. For some strange reason when we started no one was bumping. What is the point of bumper cars if you don't bump? So I forced myself into others. It was fun till me and Goga teamed up on Gia and bumped him at the same time. That shorted the circuit and our time was cut short. I laughed the whole time as the park attendant yelled at us.

From there we went to a "Sniper" trailer. I was curious about it ever since we walked into the zoo. I walked in and saw an arsenal of weaponry on the wall. I thought to myself "Now this should be interesting." Apparently, you could choose what you wanted to play according to the gun. There were two types of pistols, two rifles, and three machine guns. I chose some futuristic machine gun you only see in movies. It felt like a real gun and I think it was. Only it shot BBs. Nonetheless it was a lot of fun to shoot a gun again. Holding that weapon made me miss the Marine Corps a little. Just enough to want to buy the assault rifle I was using. I still don't know what it is but I am glad I have pictures of it.

From there we roamed around Old Tbilisi (as it is called, not downtown). That was also the same day as the bathhouse adventure I had which is a story all in itself.

15 May 2011

But I won't forget

So, I bought my ticket to Batumi and now waiting for the train. I am nervous and scared at the same time. But I know that I will have fun. There is a beach there so I will soak up the sun. The Black Sea!! Yeah!

13 May 2011

Without even knowing how to be

So, the zoo yesterday. That was an interesting adventure in itself. When I walked in I didn’t think it was a zoo. The first animal that I saw was a Cheetah. I was amazed and in awe at the same time. Usually zoos have some cute, cuddly animal as a statue or first, but I am in Eastern Europe. I did notice the pony near the entrance which should have tipped me off but I thought it was for the kids. You know, a pony ride for the kids. Simple yet practical. (More on that later…)
This zoo had many animals. It was small and quaint. There many things to do in this zoo like a topsy-turvy house, bumper cars, a Ferris Wheel and kiddie rides. That is the reason why I didn’t think it was a zoo. Those things were in the front. And now that I think about it, that is a good way to get the kids inside to see the animals.
From the cheetahs, we walked towards the kiddie rides. You had to pass by them to get to the animals. There were a few animals here and there but the best ones were passed that. I loved seeing the wolves. They were in the cage near the cheetahs. As you walk down to see their cage you pass by the zoo employee access to their cage which is double gated. They watched me walk by. They stared at me while I took their picture. They didn’t move until I left their sight. So, as I approached their full cage they walked into view. One wolf, probably the Alpha male, walked and stood on a rock perch the zoo made for them. He stood there over looking everything. He then looked at me to take a picture. Unfortunately, Goga had the camera and it was not a good take. I took the camera from him and the Alpha male unperched himself and walked around. There was so much fence in the way there was no way to get a good shot of them. My favorite animal and I couldn’t get a good picture. I am very mad about that.

And way to be

Well the internet has been shotty all day. And to top it off Blogger is down. Thank God, I know how to use Microsoft Word. Word. But that is not the thing that bothers me. Today is the Friday 13th. Which in itself is strange and unlucky. Or lucky for some.  Now the question is do I publish all of these posts as one or separately? They are unrelated in content but related to each other because I cannot post them as usual.

Finding a place to be

Everyone’s name is George around here. Everywhere I go. I hear Gio, Gia, Goga, Giorgi, etc… It is like everyone loves Georgia so much that the first name they can think of is George.  I think it’s kinda funny. It is like the name James in the US. So many different variants, but one root. I find it cute, in a way.

12 May 2011

Of nothingness and cosmos so bleak

So, I was asked if I was an English teacher here in Tbilisi. The kid was maybe fourteen at best. He said in such a way that led me to think English is taught poorly in Georgia. Then thought bred another thought. I could teach English in Georgia. I am kinda good at since I speak with good grammar. Hell, I can't even type the same word in a paragraph unless I cannot find a replacement. I might have to research this field... Live in Georgia as a teacher. Go anywhere I want within Europe til I want to come home. Hmm...

11 May 2011

Roaming around lost in the sea

To anyone who reads this blog: Sign in, leave a comment, or better yet drop me a line at kulai123@yahoo.com in the subject write: (Read your blog). I really want to know who you are and what you like about my blog. You keep coming back to read. Give me input. It only makes it better...

Oh and the ... on the reactions is a very important reaction to me. It means you really have nothing to say but want more so that you can say something. If that makes sense... I use it a lot when I write as a pause for effect or "you know what I am about to say".

So, to reiterate: any feedback is good feedback. I love to creep but I am a little open about my creeping. If you read or view anything I post, let me know.

Just to wonder how this life came to be

I am patiently waiting for my friend Giorgi to come back. He is still in the Army which makes hanging out with him far and few between. I am anxious to ask if he wants to go to Batumi. We will get the chance to go the beach and chill out since it has been warming up lately.

Plus I want to go to see someone. But I am not making any guarantees about this person. I just now that he is cute and wants to meet me as much as I want to meet him...

10 May 2011

Into the maw of a glare

Hello again! Well, yesterday led me on a small adventure. I climbed up the side of the mountain overlooking my friends house. Much shorter trip than the monastery, but interesting nonetheless. I also found out that I am not afraid of heights like I thought. I am afraid of falling off of tall objects. And there were some sheer rock faces that my poor Converses could not cling to. I was uprooting trees and bushes to have a handhold. And the whole time going I was being told to not be scared and to stand all the way up. I was on the set of Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo, because that is what I was feeling.

The higher I climbed the more my brain would analyze ways down without slipping on a rock and avalanching my way to the street below. Did I forget there was a highway below this perch of rock I scaled? Yes, there was a highway intersection right below me. So if I slipped to my doom, I would most likely be the cause of a multi-car pile up.

Scariest thing ever! And I went skydiving...

08 May 2011

I stop and I stare

There are a lot of Georgians who can speak English. I think I am just as surprised at this as they are surprised that I know a little bit of Kartuli Ena. Needless to say, it helps that I have someone who can help me speak the language. Some of my dreams have been in Georgian, which means I am starting to understand it. I can certainly think with the same word structure (which is why I haven't written a post in a while). I would type on Facebook a comment to a friend and have to re-write it because I am speaking Georgian but writing in English. Very confusing to to be in the middle of.

One of the reasons I bring this up is because I was invited to go to a city called Batumi nestled neatly near the border of Turkey floating on the edge of the Black Sea. That just so happens to be a place I want to go. I think it would be cool to float around in the Black Sea. Lay around on the beach in my swimsuit. Surrounded by people saying "Who's that guy?"

Only to find it nowhere

Ever since I left the monastery, my dreams have been wild and vivid. It has been a long time since I had dreams like that. The last time I can remember having a dream that powerful was before the Marine Corps. I miss my vivid dreams. Some have been precognitive. Is it because I drank the water at the monastery and lit a prayer candle that these dreams come back to me? Is it the realization that I have nothing else to worry about and sleep peacefully? Are my wild, vivid dreams returning to me because I am back on track with my journeys? I guess that is just a mystery to be solved...

I am searching for air

I walked 18 kilometers to a monastery on top of a mountain. It was a far walk but the end result was glorious. The view of the countryside warmed my heart. The view of Tbilisi excited me. This is truly a beautiful country and I am fortunate to see it.

The monks were friendly and offered to let me photograph the inside of the monastery but I declined. I felt that is something one must see with their own eyes. They gave us water because of our long trip. The water was cool and crisp. It tasted like none I have ever had. Lewan, Lasha, and Dato lit prayer candles and said a prayer. I walked around looking at the paintings on the walls. I was truly amazed that this monastery has been atop this mountain for so long. Built in the 1600s and it is still operated.

After viewing the monastery, Lewan, Dato, Lasha, and I built a fire and cooked skewered chicken. It was by far the most interesting way to barbecue chicken. Lewan built the fire, then let it burn down to smoldering coals. Once the coals were the right height, he placed the chicken just high enough from the coals to cook. Definitely a trick I will bring back to the states with me.

07 May 2011

...

On a good note...

Everyone I have met loves me! Or that is what I think. I have arm wrestled everyone. I lost some and won some. There was even an "Over the Top" reference thrown in there. *laughs* I might have to start a league...

I remember the box drill and post up for a dunk

I am taking a break from drinking. *laughs* Six days of booze can wear me thin. And it caused me to do the one thing I am good at... Disappear. I met a former Georgian Army sniper. I went to his house to eat. I met his family and we talked about America and Georgia. Giorgi didn't know where I was. I scared him. I didn't mean to do such. I thought the guy was a friend. Oops! I could have been bound, gagged and raped.

06 May 2011

Full of jazz and funk

Back tracking a bit... On the Turkish Airlines, I witnessed the awesomeness of technology. The first class was filled with one person seats that could recline into beds. Beds!! They had their own TV and everything. My first thought was why didn't I get first class? But as I got to the regular seats I noticed that there were video screens on the back of every seat.

I didn't think such a thing was possible. TV at my disposal. I thumbed through the menu screen to venture further. I could watch whatever I wanted. TV shows (Friends, How I met your Mother, King of Queens, etc...), Movies, Games, Internet and Music were displayed for me to choose from. Many things to ease the time of traveling to other countries. I enjoyed it.

I watched the newest Harry Potter so that I could be caught up in the series.

Then something happened that I was not prepared for. Free drinks. Yeah, I said it. Free. Drinks. I didn't have to pay for the scotch I drank. Amazing? Yes, I would think so.

Til I am dizzy and drunk

I have two hangovers fighting each other right now. They are in a heated battle. Last night was a lot of fun. I partied out on the town with Giorgi and his friends. They are my friends now. We ate and drank expensively. We turned a fight into a dance party.

Words do not describe the joy I felt. I flirted with a very beautiful girl. I don't remember her name but I do know that some man wanted something from me because I flirted with her. That is another mystery for me to solve.

Me, Lasha, Goga, Gia, Levan, and David drank til we couldn't speak our native languages. They were speaking English and I was speaking Georgian. It was strange. I think that is how I was able to flirt with that girl. Man, I wish I knew her name. All I know is that is was very pretty. Eh...

05 May 2011

I collect myself then turn about

So, as you know, most airlines abuse luggage. Mine, however, did not make it. Thankfully, I didn't lose anything of value like two weeks worth of clothes. I am sad to see my bag destroyed but I am proud to know that it has lasted this long. This piece of luggage is part of a set of three and I ruined it. Those three have been in my life for the longest time. Longer than I could speak for that matter. But it is time I find a new piece of luggage to haul my clothes back home, when the time comes...

I fight with the current and turn about

With my Turkish Airlines story, you are probably wondering why the Popeye's references? Well I asked one of the many info desk personnel where the smoke pit was their response: Go to Popeye's and you will see a sign.

A sign? Like I walk up to the counter of Popeye's order a bucket of chicken and a magical door opens letting me outside to smoke a cigarette? Really? Come to find out.. There was a sign. It read: Smoker's Terrace (arrow up). But looming in the distance was the Turkish Popeye's mocking me. And it doesn't end there...

After I found out that I had to wait a total of three hours to see if I won the Gate Lottery, I was hungry. But when am I not? So I asked yet again one of the "Desk Trolls" (not because they were ugly, but because I had to solve a riddle, life lesson and next week's bonus word on Wheel of Fortune).

"Where is there something that is good and unique to eat?" Wrong question to ask...

"There is a Popeye's down that way." Great, I thought to myself, that has to be unique because Popeye's populate more street corners than hookers and Starbucks, combined. And so from that moment on Popeye's became my frame of reference. If I get lost, perpetuate the stereotype ask around.

"'Scuse me, I am an American from the South and I am having difficulty finding food... Oh Popeye's? I love Popeye's"

04 May 2011

I am tossed, tumbled and toiled about

(cont.)
...And once I did, it led me to terminal 211 (just around the corner from the Popeye's). I casually sat down near the most English-speaking group I could find. My phone was off and if I needed the time, I needed to ask fast without drawing pictures in the sand.

For all my luck, I sat next to a Junior Soccer Team from Australia. I sat listening to some of their stories, even got to smile at a "That's what she said". But in the back of my mind I knew I was going to be running to my terminal. Apparently, that is how the Turkish Airlines is set up. The intercom is flooded with flight transfers, reconnects, and gate changes. The only thing stable were people running to their gate to make it in time.

I turned to one of the coaches and said "Excuse me, do you know what the local time is?"

He looked at his watch and said "It is 12:45, mate"

I thanked him and looked at Gate 211. The flight info was not being displayed. I started to worry. So, I stood up and walked to the departure board. I read it quickly because I was to be boarding my plane in 5 minutes and didn't want to run ALL the way to Gate 257.

The Turkish Airline is in the shape of an "L". I was in the corner of said "L". Gate 257 was on the long end, 201 on the short end.

As I read the times of departing flights, I could feel my heart shift into 4th gear. (I hate when it gets to that gear.) In my mind, I read off the flights and gates.

"Tbilisi, Tbilisi, 1345, 1345, Gate 201, FUCK!" I think I screamed that so loud in my mind that it echoed out of my ears.

And so, like Zebra Cakes at an Over-eaters convention, I was gone. Sprinting like I have never sprinted before. "215, 213, 209, 208..." I was getting scared. "206, 205, 204, 212, WHAT?!?, 203..."
A glimmer of hope rose in my stomach (or it was gas, I couldn't tell which), Gate 102 shone bright in the distance and the sign said "Now Boarding". All anyone saw was a blur of shadow zip past them. I don't know where the extra boost of speed came from (probably the gas) but I used it.

Either way, I made it in time; out of breath and wishing I had stretched before hand. An older Georgian looked at me as I dropped out of warp speed and said "You did good to run, but I would not let them leave my wife." I chuckled or cackled or whatever you do when you laugh and try to breath at the same time.

From there I knew I was on my way. Only thing is... I have to go back through the Turkish Airport again... FML...

of undaunted joy and immeasurable glee

So to kind of back track a bit...
Istanbul, Turkey:    So I land there and immediately got some strange looks. Not like the looks I got at The Wheel in Nashville but similar. I just laughed to myself and roamed around trying to find a bathroom and a smoke pit. But before I found them, I needed to know where I was to catch my flight. That was a pain in the ass so to speak. I asked anyone who was standing behind a desk.
One such conversation went like this:
   "Hello. I need to know where to catch my flight."
   Looking at my ticket the lady says "You have to wait til 12 to find out."
   I look at my ticket and see that I will be boarding at 12. I think to myself "Fuck!"
   "Well is there anyway you can tell me where I will have to be?"
   "No. Wait til 12"

I had to wait three hours before I could see Tbilisi on the Departure board....

                                                                                                                     to be continued...

02 May 2011

I am cast into a sea

So I have finally have the chance to update this since my disconnect with the Americas. I have already having a ton of fun so far. This is a beautiful city. I will be more prompt on these so I love and miss you but I have to go have some fun.

Also as a side note, I am a few hours ahead of the States. For example, it was 9pm here but had just turned 1am on the East Coast. I am so bad with math so I might be off when I give you a call (if I do).

30 April 2011

But think of each night I am awake.

So today is the day... Technically... Been doing the final look through of all of my stuff that I am taking. I just came back from Bar at 316 and Marigny to get a beer or two in the system. I had to calm my nerves. I am extremely excited to be going on this trip. Kinda wish I could bring a friend or two. But this will be a great experience for me.
I will be safe and have tons of fun. (I had to throw that disclaimer in for all of my friends and family who would tell me to do so.)

On something that I forgot

Well I am sitting here waiting. Waiting to see if these boys want to go out and have a beer or two. I have already made up my mind that I will not stay up too late.  I don't want to miss my flight...

I am much more anxious and nervous. I really want a beer. *laughs*

28 April 2011

A side I should take

Pendulum- Sounds of Life

This song is giving the motivation to explore Charlotte tonight. I just finished packing my luggage (don't want to procrastinate on that). As the days get closer to me hopping onto the plane and flying off on my adventure, my heart races me to excitement and anxiousness.

Most people ask me why I am going to Georgia. Most don't even know where in the world it is. I usually have to add "the country of" in front of it as to not confuse it with the U.S. Georgia. But my answer is mostly the same: I am going to visit with some of the Georgian Army soldiers I met while in Afghanistan. I am going as a way of saying "Thanks". Thanks for going somewhere to risk your lives helping the U.S. in a major fight. They didn't have to go there or be there. And I am glad they did. Their help made it possible for my unit's mission to be completed.

I met some wonderful people while there sitting up all night trying to find a way to communicate with someone who doesn't even speak English. Hand signals and broken sign language made this trip possible and I am grateful.

27 April 2011

An action I should have sought

Well nothing exciting happened today. Kinda wish it did now that I have this running log of everything that is strange and wonderful that goes on in my life. But I guess you need the dull days to contrast with the downright amazing days. I could have gone out to Petra's Piano Bar tonight but what would that have yielded? More disappointment? More adventure? I guess I will never know.

26 April 2011

I sit on a thought as I decide my fate

Well, I guess the best way to start this is by saying I got my passport in the mail today. It is going to be an awesome trip. My first stop will be Tbilisi, Georgia. From there I will pull a country out of a hat and go there. Of course, suggestions are necessary (almost required).