Day 152

I rarely say that a day flew by but I will admit this one did. While it was still early evening in the States, I got up at 1am and headed to the flight line to pick up a fellow sailor who was flying in to join our team. "Welcome to Afghanistan, Senior Chief." Yep...I finally got to say it instead of hear it. After his arrival then in-brief by the Navy (same folks who will kick my butt out of this country), I got him back and a room for the night. Around 4am, I was back in my room, replied to a few e-mails, and went back to bed for a few more hours of sleep. Luckily, I already set up to come in a few hours late today and I did.

Today was crazy busy and didn't stop until past 7pm tonight. Surf and Turf got moved to tonight so I had a crab cake and some shrimp. Pretty good tonight...better than usual. After dinner, we were back in the office for a bit then called it a night.

Also today at 6am and 8am EST, my interview aired regarding 9/11. From all accounts so far and comments on the station's Facebook page, it was very well received. It's always weird to hear myself on the radio and it sounded like I was out of breath. I think it was because I was cupping my hand over the phone handset because of the background chatter in the office...which you could also hear. Still, though...I could be heard loud and clear and heck...it was a 7,000 mile interview, right?! Right! Thanks to Mr. Z for interviewing me yet again and the chance to give locals a taste of the "real" Afghanistan and not what's on the news.

Well, it's time to wind down Day 152. I'm anxious to get Friday going and into the weekend. I just love putting X's on the calendar right now and the halfway point of September is just around the corner....the faster I get there, the better. Plus, the 9/11 run Sunday morning following by a pancake breakfast is coming up. It should be a lot of fun.

To close out tonight, I want to share a poem that I shared with Dorothy a few days back. I've been doing little things here and there which remains just ours and not for here. This poem, though, I've gone back and read several times and just love it. It really does sum up my love for her and how I see our life together. I thought you'd enjoy it so here it is:

The Meaning

To love is to share life together
to build special plans just for two
to work side by side
and then smile with pride
as one by one, dreams all come true.

To love is to help and encourage
with smiles and sincere words of praise
to take time to share
to listen and care
in tender, affectionate ways.

To love is to have someone special
one who you can always depend
to be there through the years
sharing laughter and tears
as a partner, a lover, a friend.

To love is to make special memories
of moments you love to recall
of all the good things
that sharing life brings
love is the greatest of all.

I've learned the full meaning
of sharing and caring
and having my dreams all come true;
I've learned the full meaning
of being in love
by being and loving with you.

- Kellie Spehn -

Goodnight, everyone.