"They want you as a new recruit"

[angischy]

You're such a nice girl, why would you wanna do something like that? (follow orders, no questioning authority, having to do things you may not morally agree with, and things for which you may not even know the hidden agendas)
why? why? why?
you can't just say something like that and leave it. we demand rationale.

Angi! THE NAVY..... REALLY? I think you have such a great spirit..... i hate to see "them" break your spirit.... you are soooo free... you dont really want to be trapped by our government, do you? None the less the choice is yours...

I really do appreciate the sentiment, but I don't think my spirit is breakable.

Life is a big game and there are tons of rules involved, but you don't have to cower in fear of them. You just have to figure out a way to play it to your advantage.

Here's my deal...I want to continue traveling and doing what I love, but I need to find a way to do that without going broke completely and job-hopping forever.
There's no quick fix for that though other than a lucky pick of numbers and a several million dollar lotto.
So, just like everyone else, I have to work and budget time and money
in order to spend my life doing what I love.

I'm 29 years old, and a college drop-out, but I'm smarter than that. I long for work that challenges me intellectually and doesn't bore me, but failing to have found that, I have been working in the restaurant biz for ease of income and flexibility of schedule. I don't want to be a 45-yr-old bartender though, and if I don't get off this merry-go-round soon, I'll just continue riding until I get too dizzy to make a different, better decision.

I could go back to college and complete my degree, but I don't really think that'll change my life or my career prospects that much. It will, however, set me back several thousands of dollars and leave me with loans to pay back. That's not freedom.
At this point in my life, if I am going to finish school, I want to work for a company that will help do that for me. I've done the corporate gig thing, a desk job in advertising sales most recently, and I hated it. I was not horrible at what I was doing, I just felt absolutely soulless doing that job.
It served no purpose other than to line the pockets of a company I
cared little to nothing about. I had the prestige of saying I worked for them, which mattered to other people "ooh, you work for them, how cool." But I knew the truth, that it was a place that sucked the life out of its employees and it was full of inefficiency and people resigned to the heavy workload and long hours in the name of having a steady job with benefits.
Don't get me wrong, I appreciate a normal job and benefits, and for some people, working 40 years of their life for one company is rewarding and secure and provides a nice life and all that. I don't really think that's for me, however. I know there's not a *perfect* job out there for everyone, but I'm not willing to give up on myself, my life, or my career and accept
something that so poorly lived up to my hopes and expectations.
A job consumes at least 40 hours of most people's weeks (or 60 with no
overtime, as was the case for me there), and if it's making one
miserable, then what's the point?

My life isn't about money, and unless if I'm doing something for a
greater good that I believe in, it just isn't worth it to me.

The military ain't a shortcut, that's for sure. If anything, it's a really tough road to pick as I stand at this intersection of my life.
I could keep going on the same road. I could change paths and go back to school. I could just get a new job and work that until I get bored/ annoyed/whatever with it and then find myself at another intersection saying "now what?"
I don't want to do that over and over again until some day I realize I'm old and boring and haven't accomplished the things I really want in my life.

I could say screw all these "real jobs" and school and career paths, and sell everything I own, and go traveling full time, on my own dime, living simply with few possessions, working and doing whatever is necessary to get by. Probably teaching English abroad, or scuba diving, or bartending or whatever would allow me to keep traveling while feeding myself and having the adventure that I choose as my life.
It probably doesn't surprise you when I say that is actually a really attractive option to me. ;)
But the bottom line is this: At some point, I'll either tire of that or long for something more or different, and I'll just be in a different place saying "now what?"

The Navy represents something completely different to me. It means I have to commit 4-6 years of my life, with no detours, to one path. It will force me to work on ONE thing and really work at it. I think I need that.
There's something almost liberating in that, ironic as it may sound.

Like anything in life, you only get what you give...but I think a more demanding career/job move right now is appropriate (if not necessary) for me and I'm ready for it. At this point in my life, I think it's the best investment in myself that I could choose, and it will yield the most life-lasting challenges and personal growth within me. And that's what I want.

I will only sign on, however, if I can get a job that I am qualified for and think I will really enjoy. After all these years in hospitality, I'm socially fulfilled, but mentally unstimulated. I want to really put my mind to use, and that's what I think will keep me interested and enthusiastic and happy about the work.
I want to be challenged, not bored...but I don't want something so hard that I will hate it or flunk out. (i.e. my ASVAB test scores were so high they said "you should do the nuclear program" but I know I wouldn't enjoy that at all, despite the huge sign-on bonuses they are offereing)

So, I am looking at several jobs, but the one that interests me most is linguist...the job is actually called Cryptologic Technician-Interpretive (http://www.navy.com/about/navylife/onduty/cryptology/whatiscti/) "CTI" for short.

I spoke with a recruiter in April, at which point I did some initial paperwork and educated myself about the enlistment process. I've given this a ton of thought, and gave myself all summer to make a decision. I'm certainly not forced into this in any way. If anything, I have too many options to choose. But I want to make the decision that will be best for me, and I keep coming back to the conclusion that this is it.

The next step for me is to take the language exam, and if my scores are strong enough, then I could be accepted into that program (which is what I want). I would go to the Defense Language School in Monterey, CA. After boot camp, I'd be there for about a year of training, and then go on to further training and then service until I've completed my commitment.

I have a high aptitude for foreign languages and love learning them in that way that some people say they enjoy doing math. The military pretty much gets to pick the language that I'll learn, based on how high my test scores are (how much my brain can handle), and in this day and age the languages they need most are Arabic, Farsi, Persian, Korean, Mandarin, and a bunch of others that I wouldn't choose on a normal day just for fun.
The career prospects when I get out may not be limitless, but there are many good options, especially if I'd want to continue working with/for the government, and the way the world is going now, it might not be such a bad thing to be an insider there.

If I don't score high enough to qualify for the language job, I'll have to reevaluate a bit. I have chosen the Navy as the one for me because it means I'll always be on or near the water and probably not in a desert, which sounds much wiser to me in this time of war.
I have of course thought about going to war and everything that means, and I'm not without my skepticism and fear. I could get hit by a bus tomorrow though, so I'm not about to let fear hold me back.
I'm not signing up to be a sniper on the front lines. I'm going for a job that's more about my brain than my body, and I'm hoping that is a safer and wiser path.

I'm a bit nervous to hear your responses as I send this off. I'm sure it sounds like my mind is completely made up, but I'm still open to your thoughts, concerns, criticism of my logic, and any advice you may have.
Even though I'd love to hear all positive thoughts and advice (especially from those who've done what I'm thinking about), I don't want to be six months down the road going "oh my God, I never thought about what this would really be like"
Paint the picture for me, and paint it real. Or paint the worst case scenario, so I can picture myself there.

The friends who know me best say they think I'm nuts but they understand how this choice could help sate my thirst for knowledge, travel, and a life challenge.
What say you?

[CaraD.]

Angi, think of the pluses of that last "cool" job. When you told me you worked, that was my response. The plus side of it, is if you never worked there. You never would have come to charlotte in Nov to see G.Love and we would have never met and for that, I am thankful that you worked for that company and glad I have your friendship.

However, for the navy. My grandfather told me when he was alive, that during WW2, all the boys in his family {there were 5} had to go into the service and my great grandfather told them to go into the navy because you'll at least have bed at night, clean clothes, and a hot meal. Which in the 40s was a big deal and if you were in the army- you were in the trenches. One of my uncles was in Pearl Harbor and didn't make it. But my pop told me that he was really glad he went into the Navy. He went to some neat places in being in the navy that a poor irish/baltimore guy wouldn't otherwise been able to go. For example, Egypt. We have all these pictures from when Pop was in Egypt at different pyramids. So thats cool. You'll got to neat cities.

As far as shows go... our friend Keri in the airforce gets to go to the ones she wants as long as she doesn't have work. She lived in Japan for awhile. I think its something you'll have to want to do for yourself, which I think you do. I say go for it. Its the safiest of all the services in my opinion.

[sway2sway]

sounds like you've thought it all out ang...so power to ya. i'm not in your shoes, so what I think don't matter. but i'll tell ya, i am a martyr by nature and get myself wrapped up in absolutes. personally, i'd go work on a cruise ship, work a job that doesn't feel like it means something more, find the 'more' in other ways. I mean, that's just if i really wanted to be on a boat. I know people in the army are good people just like everyone else, but they are the mechanism of a greater creature, that hasn't proved it's intentions to me. each his own.
no interest in going back to school?

[the duke]

i'm with sway, not in your shoes, so I can't comment, however, my feel good story is that my dad served in the navy so he wouldn't get conscripted to the army...he travelled the world, worked his ass off, but had a ton of fun and met people he'd never get to meet. I believe he was also a CTI, and to tell you the truth, my dad has had a fabulous life.

Good luck with it all, and why not take the plunge? You'll never know if you never go...

[Miss Shark]

The only thing I'll say Ang-A-Lee, is 6 years is a long time. I've no doubt you'd be successful at whatever you would do with the Navy. I just would rather you committed yourself to something you had a real passion for. Whether that means starting at the bottom of the ladder, or going back to school. To me that is what success means doing what you are passionate about.

I come from 3 generations of Marines, starting with my grandfather. My gramps had to fight to get in and serve because of his age, but that was his passion. He got in and left his wife and kids at home to be a Devil Doc working the front lines.

[tim foley]

maybe you'll(angi) be like a guinea pig for the rest of us. let's see how it changes u for better or worse.

[Barefoot2Dream]

Sauce, what's your experience with Navy life? I'd be interested to hear some thoughts "from the inside".

[doubledown]

hi i dont know u well enough to give life advice but what made u think about the service in the first place as an option?
did you wake up one day and say "i want to be a soldier"?

it's not like a recruiter came and found you right?

if you are a drop out and feel ashamed of it, why not just go back and finish school. it will cost money but not your freedom.
or join the reserves if you want money for school. if you like the marching and stuff you could just enlist full time when you graduate. unless your already too old.

i saw you have a youtube cahnnel with lots of videos. crazy how many shows you've been to. i was jealous till i saw you post about being unemployed now. haha, what did you expect?

anyways you obviously like to create why not do that? i'm sure u could make a career out of that and still have alot of freedom to do what u like.

that creative part of u will probably die in the navy sorry to say it but i can't imagine that is something very highly valued in the military system in wartime. it's not art school.

good luck. better practice your pushups because thats all you'll be doing for months once your there!

[lietuvaite]

I could go back to college and complete my degree, but I don't really think that'll change my life or my career prospects that much. It will, however, set me back several thousands of dollars and leave me with loans to pay back. That's not freedom.

i disagree completely. i think education is the main thing that can change your life, and give you the life that you want. it can bring you the intellectual challenges you speak of, travels (or money to travel), etc.

you say you want to travel and do what you love. What is it that you love?? creating videos, as doubledown suggested? you mentioned you love languages, then study a foreign language in combination with whatever else it is you love to do.

if you figure out what you love to do, the passion and challenges will follow, and so will the freedom.

[tinkerlion]

part of me does think you could benefit from it, but i hesitate to say it's totally the right decision (mostly because only you can make that call.) the main reason that keeps coming to me is the idea of not being able to challenge orders. it's very hard to blindly accept direction many times.

all that said i would consider using the military to get medical training if i weren't married. i understand the reluctance to go back to school. what other options are there for you to possibly get training or paid to travel?

[Miss Shark]

Angi people that I know that have served in war time have been changed, changed in the core of who they are, and not for the better.

I share one story with you of a friend in the Air Force. He was doing some training, maybe for POW I'm not sure at this point. I was is girl friend that I was dear friends with. We were living in FL at the time the were in Vegas. My girl friend came to visit me with soem other folks, and I intoduced them to my fiends down there. From that meeting 2 of my friends really hit it off and later married. Proir to getting married they met in VA. It was 2 girl friends of mine the one that got married and the one living with the guy in the Air Force, and 2 guys friends from FL. Long story short, kinda, during Mr. A Fs training they showed him pictures of his live-in girl friend on the Beach in VA kissing another guy. Not only had they been watching her for who knows how long they followed her out of state.

No doubt you are strong and smart, but don't underestimate what you are considering getting yourself into. They've been at this war/soldier making business for a long time, and are very efficient at what they do.

I guess I had a little more to say......

[lietuvaite]

angi, i don't want you or anyone joining during time of war...

my brother-in-law (husband's sister's husband) is leaving for iraq in the first week of october. he's been in the reserves about fifteen years, ever since college. from what i understand, because he's in the reserves, they are the last to be called, so he never thought he'd be sent there.

his daughter's first birthday is september 21st and they had a hard time picking a date for her birthday party because of things he or the family have to do with the army. to quote my sister-in-law, "it sucks to not have control over your own life".

they've been busy having a will drawn up, etc.

[angischy]

Hey everyone, sorry, I should have replied back to my own thread sooner, I suppose.
Thank for your comments.

I am still quite determined that this is the right move for me.

Life is all about choices. I do have control over my own life, and will continue to do so, despite some of the restrictions that will be on me once immersed in the military life. There are pros and cons to everything, and I assure you it is not without careful consideration that I have come to this decision in my life.

I haven't signed anything yet, but my plan is to reserve my slot and sign up for the Delayed Enlisted Program (http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/joiningup/a/dep.htm), which still gives me some wiggle room if something drastic were to happen between now and my ship-off date, which would likely be @ March 2008.

[tinkerlion]

so have you taken the placement test to see if you will get into the linguistics programs yet?

[the duke]

hmm, i'm not sure. It's hard to make an opinion without being there...it would be very hard to go away to war, infact, that would be shit. BUT, I'm not in your position.

My opinion is that of Liet...I value education over everything else, and I believe it gets you where you want to go...takes time and a damn huge amount of effort, but once you get there, life is good.

Though, like we all say, it's your call...only you know what's right for you.

[angischy]

I'm going to MEPS tomorrow and signing up for Delayed Enlistment Program (DEP)
They are going to give me a physical, drug test, make me watch a bunch of videos, talk my head off, paperwork, meet the Commander (or someone similar of higher rank), talk to the CTI Coordinator about my job selection, and then, barring any difficulties along the way, I'll be swearing in, and I'm officially enlisted.

I'm still having some "OMG Am I really doing this" feelings of tension, and a bit overwhelmed at the length of the commitment. But when I put those feelings aside, I'm really quite excited and eager to go do this and work hard and focus and be challenged and serve and so on . . .

Wish me luck. Thank you for your support.

[tinkerlion]

if you get ansy or need a pep talk in the morning give me a call, i'll be up (or close enough to it that i won't care!)

[Mr. Cleanface]

Wow!!! Just reading this thread for the first time, and all I can say is GOOD LUCK!!! It sound to me like you know what you are doing, and have thought it through.

BTW; for you saying that education is the most important thing, what do you think they do in the Navy? Sail boats all day? You will learn a TON in the Navy, in all kinds of different fields. Skills that you can use for the rest of your life! And, it is all hands on, no sitting in classrooms all day BS. I actually thought about joining about 10 years ago when I was in a rut in school. I have a guy I grew up with who joined and has lived in Italy for the past 10+ years. Even married an Italian girl.

Anyway, good luck girl, and thanks for your service!!!

http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/pic/GAL/SIGA34~Navy-Welcome-Posters.jpg

[angischy]

Wow!!! Just reading this thread for the first time, and all I can say is GOOD LUCK!!! It sound to me like you know what you are doing, and have thought it through.

BTW; for you saying that education is the most important thing, what do you think they do in the Navy? Sail boats all day? You will learn a TON in the Navy, in all kinds of different fields.

Awww, Thanks Mr C. That's really what I needed to hear right now, even if it's from a virtual stranger (well, there are others stranger than you ;))

I have definitely thought (agonized is more like it) this through. I've thought, put it aside, come back to it, played devil's advocate, consulted with friends, family, strangers, recruiters, veterans, and even the dishonorably discharged, i've thought some more, pushed it aside, put it back burner, rejected it, shelved it, tried to ignore it and forget it, but Goddammit! It keeps coming back!
And so I went a little more public with it amongst my inner circle and even you guys for some final thoughts as I took one final look and weighed all the options and yes, I have come to a decision, a conclusion, that this is what I want to do.

I still think I'm a little crazy. I didn't grow up knowing anyone who was ever in the military except my crazy alcoholic uncle who's the black sheep of the family. Not exactly a positive role model, but also not the military (or any) norm.
For what I want out of life right now, this is the one thing I can do that will put my life in a forward motion more dramatically than anything else.

In my personal quest for knowledge, challenge, travel, career, intellectual stimulation, physical fitness, and being part of something much bigger than myself that serves a purpose, I believe I will be quite fulfilled if not sated. (100% satisfaction & self-actualization = game over, mission accomplished, die already, but most never get there)

The bottom line is that I don't think there is any one thing I can commit to right now that will yield similarly productive results. Not college, not a job, not a place to move to, not a person to love, not a child to have. It all comes from applying myself 100% to one thing, not the many I'm accustomed to.
When I get out, I can get back to "normal" life and do whatever but not lose the knowledge, benefits, life experience & more that I've gained.

I know what I'm headed for isn't for everyone, but right now, it's for me, and I'm all for it. I might not be around here as often, but I'll still be around...

[Miss Shark]

Hang on tight and enjoy the ride!!!!

[Barefoot2Dream]

Are you ready for the withdrawls? Cuz you know you're gonna miss us...........;)

[lietuvaite]

good luck, girl. you'll be great!

[the duke]

well there you go :) If it keeps coming back, you know it's what you want to do....

GOOD LUCK!!! and like Mr C said, maybe you'll marry an italian :) hehe

You only live once dude, so make the most of it...and i'm sure you'll get online every now and again and check in with us :D

[Miss Shark]

So what went down, do tell?

[gumbolimbo]

Angi,
I am proud of you. It takes alot of courage to join during these times. If I didn't just have a baby and if I had a husband who was supportive of the military I would definately join the Navy. I looked into about 2 years ago, and found out that they pay huge sign on bonuses and pay for furthur education for RN's. Even outside the medical field there are great opportunities available and good benefits. So....if you can travel the world, learn a new language and skills, AND make a living, what is 6 years anyway?

I am a military brat, and even growing up with a father who was a little bit like a drill sargent while dealing with his family, I must say that there is something wonderful about picking up and moving every few years and starting from scratch. I've been in FL for 10 years (longest place ever) and I still miss that feeling of starting new, seeing new places, and meeting new people. There is definately some soul to that.

[angischy]

Well, I spent 2 and a half days at MEPS this week (Military Entry Processing Station) and I am STILL not in!
I am waiting on a medical waiver for my LASIK surgery. Ut
At first, my recruiter hadn't filed enough paperwork, but after that, he got complete copies of everything from my doctor AND they sent me to an optometrist for a consult, and he pretty much gave me an "all clear" nothing wrong with her eyes, 20/20 vision, etc after that appointment.
I don't understand what the holdup is now because they are asking for "additional documentation" and I can't imagine what else they could possibly want or need.

It's felt like a big old suckage of time and I have never been one to be very tolerant of inefficiency, but I am trying to be patient with "the process."
I am not going in for almost 6 months, so I should not be in danger of missing out on anything, but still, I'd like my time spent working with the recruiter and at MEPS now to be productive, and this week has just not been like that.
I just started a new job (which I am loving) here on the beach, so I am not really able to take additional days off. I also am not appreciating having to spend every day off by getting up at 4:30am (Yipe!) and sitting there all day only to end up with little to no progress.

The one good thing that has come out of all of this is it's really made me certain on how badly I want to get in. Otherwise, I think the rigmarole of it all would have been a relief and I may have just said "meh, forget this!"

That has, however, not been the case at all. :(
But I'll get there, I will. This is only a test.

[the duke]

you're right, it's a test to see if you REALLY want to do it...I bet they do this to make sure they weed out any half assed people...

Keep us updated :)

[angischy]

Keep us updated :)

Well, I'm not in yet, but almost.

After much jumping through hoops, the medical Waiver for my LASIK surgery has finally been approved.

I am taking the DLAB test tomorrow which secures my fate/job as a CTI/linguist.
http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/joiningup/a/dlab.htm

It's a hard test. Supposedly only 35% of people who take it qualify for the language jobs based on their scores. I need the highest score I can get to have the most options as far as which language I learn.
I'm confident I'll do well, but still, eeek! http://www.toyotalife.com/forums/images/smiles/icon_nervous.gif

If all goes well, I am supposed to swear in immediately after and sign my life away...for a few years, at least.
If I don't do well enough on the DLAB, I'm still supposed to swear in and pick a job tomorrow...I may choose to take more to to reassess and pick a job I think I'm well-suited for, I have a few back-up plan ideas, but not sure if there are slots open for them.

Regardless, tomorrow is a BIG day for me.
I'm not completely freaking out, but um, yeah, a little bit.
Which I think is good, because I do take this seriously. It's a big deal commitment.

Wish me and my cold feet luck!

[gumbolimbo]

Good Luck!! I'm sure you will do Great!:D

[Miss Shark]

I'd say you're deep into that 35%. Cake walk!!

[tinkerlion]

of course you'll do fine!

[sway2sway]

I just still don't understand. why why why

[angischy]

I just still don't understand. why why why

Oh Sway, I know you can't crawl in my head and see my logic, but trust me, I've thought it all out. I've tried to talk myself out of this and reason it away. Do anything but this, but back I keep coming to this choice.

And I'm not joining blindly or playing follow the leader. I am going to play their games and follow their rules as much as I have to, but I am going to work very hard in my inner mind and spirit to stay true to who I am now and who I enjoy being, and not be that changed by the whole experience.

I want to milk the experience of being in the military for all it's worth, without completely selling out and becoming a mindless soldier.

Sure, there'll be shit times, but there are plenty of those in my life now and they aren't really paying off.

I could list a bunch of reasons ten million times, and I know for some people, it's just something they could never do or commend another person on doing. And sometimes, I still think I'm nuts to even be thinking about this, but...
here I go.

So wish me luck and try to keep an open mind. Maybe it'll be a horrible experience and I'll be miserable. If I were to go AWOL and flee to Canada, could I come hide at your house? Then you can tell me to straight to my face "I told ya so!"

And yes, I did once have this bumper sticker on the back of my car, when I was 18.
http://www.carryabigsticker.com/images/join_army500.gif
Does that make me a hypocrite? Or just someone hoping that she is never put in that situation where she has to be or do that?

This never would have been the right choice for me at that time, though I did actually consider joining the Air Force, for many of the same reasons and same career field, as a linguist, because I want to travel and see and do and be challenged in a way that "normal" life doesn't seem to offer...and so many other things that I think I'll get out of it.

If I'd done this back then, I would have been out long before 9/11 and all the Bushit afterwards.

I am not of the "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em" mentality, but I do think that just by being an American these days, we're guilty of so much of what's wrong in the world.
I'm hoping I can, at least in some way, make a difference for the better.

[angischy]

Thank you to those who have wished me well and luck and all that good stuff.

I'll let you know how it turns out.

[sway2sway]

I wish you well too ang.
It's not that I don't get that I have strong, if not inflammatory, feelings about the military. I know a lot of people feel much differently.
I guess it's just harder to understand when it's someone that I can see eye to eye on so many other things. I have a wall up regarding military action that is not always accurately balanced (like of course they do some good things), but I can't get past all the other shit. I know people say that's mrs. privelige being ungrateful to those dying to protect my freedom. But I propose that somehow none of us will ever be free with this as our paradigm. And I know people say that there are things we must fight down, or fight for, or fightfightfight- and it could get real ugly before it got better, but I know there is a better way, a world that is possible without military being the monstrosity that it is. Why can't we all just be a little more like costa rica?

[sway2sway]

and you certainly could hide out at my house and i wouldn't say, told ya so.

[angischy]

and you certainly could hide out at my house and i wouldn't say, told ya so.

Well, I don't think you'd be mean and all schadenfreude about it!
I think it'd just be one look that you'd give me and I'd look back with a look that said "Aww shit, I hate it when other people are right and I am wrong"

And I know you are just speaking your mind, and I dig that. Please continue, always (ha, as if I could stop ya!)

Maybe I'm just a big naive puppy dog, but I want to think that I will go and do this thing, and get in shape physically as well as mentally and learn and use some languages and have some experiences I'd never otherwise have and that I will work and learn and meet people and travel and do good things and hard things and hopefully not too many bad things.
I am thinking positive, but I am well aware that I may be asked to do things I would not otherwise do in the name of "duty" or "honor" or whatever they want to call it in the moment. And I will be expected to follow orders, no questions asked, no critical thinking (which I am so fond and proud of doing), just do it and get the job done.
In the job I'll be in, which is basically communication, I may hear and say and have to translate some pretty horrible messages

And yes, I am scared and skeptical not just because of the unknown aspect of it all, but also because I have seen the pretty brochures and the promises and the dollar signs in the propaganda that is there to hook a young (dumb?) recruit into joining and I'm sure that once you're in, it's a totally different story.
Oops, that enlistment bonus isn't going to be paid because of "a technicality" or oops (whoops!), that job we promised, well, we never said we'd guarantee it, so now you have to do this other one cuz we need more of those people.
So, yeah, I know they supposedly make promises but ultimately the military's like a casino, at the end of the day, the house always wins.

And I'm afraid that if I have a bad experience while I'm in, I'll be Miss Disillusioned and it'll all seem like a big con job.

But they didn't come after me.
I went in there willingly, seeking a new opportunity. So if anything, I conned myself into thinking this was an answer that would punctuate my life in the way I think it needs punctuating.

For all the possibilities of good and better than good outcomes, it's an institution, and it undoubtedly is full of corruption, just like most other institutions...
The military is a whole lifestyle in itself, I suppose, but it is also, sometimes, just a job.
I've worked a bunch of places in civilian life, and felt the pull of people trying to make me a corporate whore and I just wasn't interested.
Not buying what they're selling, not even buying what I'm supposed to be selling...not drinking the Kool-Aid, ya know?

I do believe I have the mental fortitude to weather this and many other storms. Now, where's my umbrella, just in case.

[the duke]

you seem like a strong personality Angi, someone who trusts in others, but still makes up the last decision by herself. I admire your courage and fearlessness os what might or might not happen. You're definitely taking a huge step in my opinion, and that's amazing. I know to hell that I wouldn't step this far...

Good luck with it all...from the side I see you in the pham, you can weather the storms as you say. We can try and be your umbrella...and like Sway says, you can hide in our houses and we won't say 'we told you so' hehehe :P

[lietuvaite]

Angi, I hope you are SAFE and it turns out to be the experience you are looking for. Good luck!!!!! I'll be thinking of you, hoping all is well for you

[angischy]

I got a 119 on my DLAB exam, it was SO HARD! I am so relieved...

And it's official, I raised my hand and now I am...
IN THE NAVY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4n1y3U4FarU)


(I hope it's as fun as that)

[tinkerlion]

i'm sure you'll have tons of time where people randomly break into song. that was part of the oath you took wasn't it?!:p

[angischy]

i'm sure you'll have tons of time where people randomly break into song. that was part of the oath you took wasn't it?!:p

Don't ask, don't tell...;)

Seriously off to Key West now. See you all this weekend!

[sway2sway]

congratulations.

[Miss Shark]

See, cake walk......Here's hoping you get all that you want out of this experience and then some!

[angischy]

Here's what's up with me and the Navy, for anyone curious/interested

8 weeks of boot camp in Chicago area
- May 6th ship date = perhaps I'll be off for the 4th of July weekend, and then graduate?

Not sure of the date yet, but then off to DLI @ Monterey, CA
- will probably be there for a year plus...
- Arabic program (probably the language I'll learn) is 63 weeks long

After that, i.e. Fall of 2009 (whoa!?!)
- 1-4 months of additional technical training in TX

and then . . . ?

That leaves a ton of gaps/questions/etc, but I am filling them in as much as possible.
I've been digging/researching online for as much info as possible about the Language school and what life is like in my rating/job and my chances of going to war/combat/etc...
I'm not discouraged at all, and I'm still feeling this is right for me. It'll be awhile still before I am actually in, but I am moving forward and getting excited.

Now, who's got some push-up, sit-up and how-to-get-in-shape-to-run tips for me?

[tinkerlion]

the best time to work out is first thing in the morning before you've eaten (according to my friend who is a personal trainer.) that's about all i know, but i'll be happy to badger him with questions at your request.

[Miss Shark]

Wow tick tock here it comes!!

You said it push-ups, sit-ups, running. I like yoga myself.

[angischy]

Wow tick tock here it comes!!

You said it push-ups, sit-ups, running. I like yoga myself.

Me too. At 6am on the beach.
But um, that would require me being up and on the beach AT 6AM:eek:!

That doesn't happen too dang often.

Then again, won't the Navy make me get up at 4am for PT? I must unlearn my late nite ways...:(It's not even that I'm some crazy party girl out at all hours, I just like to stay up late. Dammit! :rolleyes:

[sauce.baby]

Don't worry, Angi, your body will learn to turn off when the lights do really damn quick in boot lol First out of sheer exhaustion, then from training it to.

[angischy]

Don't worry, Angi, your body will learn to turn off when the lights do really damn quick in boot lol First out of sheer exhaustion, then from training it to.

Sho 'nuff! It's not the going to sleep part that's the problem...it's the getting up!
The bugler'd need to be pretty near my ear.
When I'm asleep, I sleep through everything.
In college, I lived right by train tracks with loud obnoxious partying roommates, and I learned to sleep through it all.

I'm doing the pre-training before the basic training. Remedial perhaps, but I'm trying to make it a bit less brutal. (if only...)

[sauce.baby]

I don't know how the Navy will do it, but with Joel when he went to basic training last summer they woke everyone up with a very LOUD "PING" sound/tone and then blared "Welcome to the Jungle" over the intercom [which, every room had a speaker in it, as well as the hallways, and you never got to close your door all the way so it was surround sound everywhere lol]

[angischy]

I don't know how the Navy will do it, but with Joel when he went to basic training last summer they woke everyone up with a very LOUD "PING" sound/tone and then blared "Welcome to the Jungle" over the intercom

I like it. lol

It's gonna be hilarious watching the young kids try to fight the system. I don't think I'll dare laugh out loud though (SHA-VINK! What's so funny? Drop!) but still! hahaha!
I don't think it'll be easy, the whole routine, training, etc...but I'll figure out the rules and play the game right so as not to be miserable the whole time. I am going to journal as much as possible and I'll put what I can online when I get out of basic.

Is it funny that I'm disappointed the Navy doesn't wear camo uniforms? They are switching to new uniforms in 2008, though, so who knows...

[Mr. Cleanface]

Good luck Ang!!!

Might we be seeing anything like this in the near future...???


http://www.imagecows.com/uploads/5e3b-navi-anchor-tattoo-design.jpghttp://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/images/anchor-tattoos.jpg

[angischy]

Might we be seeing anything like this in the near future...???


Eh, that's a big N-O there big daddy.
I will join, I will serve, I will obey orders, etc, but I don't plan on drinking the kool-aid nor do I desire to scar my body permanently in that way.
Scars may happen, emotional or physical, during the time I'm in. I'm open to that...but I'm not going to bleed blue and gold like that.

I am, however, already in touch with my inner pirate, so a temporary anchor/skull tattoo here and there might have their moment.
Did I ever share my Halloween costume pics with you all here? I know the Navy uniform won't be anywhere near as fun to wear as this one was, but I will have some fun with it, I'm sure.

[Doofus King]

Good luck Ang!!!

Might we be seeing anything like this in the near future...???


http://www.imagecows.com/uploads/5e3b-navi-anchor-tattoo-design.jpghttp://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/images/anchor-tattoos.jpg

Wow... those tats might end up being prophetic as she gets older.

[angischy]

Wow... those tats might end up being prophetic as she gets older.

LOL Anchors Aweigh, indeed! :p

[angischy]

So there is this story circulating on the internet . . .

Marine Corps General Reinwald was interviewed on the Radio recently...

This is a portion of a National Public Radio (NPR) interview between a female broadcaster and US Marine Corps General Reinwald who was about to sponsor a Boy Scout Troop visiting His military installation.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER: So, General Reinwald, what things are you going to teach these young boys when they visit your base?

GENERAL REINWALD: We're going to teach them climbing,canoeing, archery, and shooting.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER: Shooting! That's a bit irresponsible,isn't it?

GENERAL REINWALD: I don't see why, they'll be properly supervised on the rifle range.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER: Don't you admit that this is a terribly dangerous activity to be teaching children?


GENERAL REINWALD: I don't see how. We will be teaching them proper rifle discipline before they even touch a firearm.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER: But you're equipping them to become violent killers.

GENERAL REINWALD: Well, ma'am, you're equipped to be a prostitute, but you're not one, are you?

The radio went silent and the interview ended. You gotta love the Marines!


That may be a great comeback, but apparently, the whole thing never happened (http://www.snopes.com/military/reinwald.asp)...it's false!

[angischy]

I went to my first Navy DEP meet-up today. About 90 recruits, maybe 10 or so recruiters, all at this big park out west in Miami.
We practiced standing at attention, in formation, responding to commands (About Face, Right & Left Face, etc), marching in formation, some double-time marching (easy jogging) in formation, and responding to cadence (singing/shouting back whatever the CO shouted at us, i.e. "When I saw ONE, you say TWO, when I say Mister, you say Magoo"...and then we call out in response...)
And yes, they did make us drop and do push-ups a few times, but never more than 5 or so at a time. Weak! (But um, thanks!)
It wasn't as physically difficult as I thought it might be, but this is still a far cry from boot camp.
It actually was pretty entertaining, just a big game of follow the leader and keep together as a team/unit. Amazing how difficult some people make it by just not paying attention...which ends up making it worse for everyone. So you learn really quick to keep your eye on the people next to you and get them to tighten up so we don't all suffer from their bad form/talking out of turn/etc

It shall be interesting to see how things progress, or not.
Two guys asked me for my phone number. If they were older than 22, I'd be shocked. :rolleyes: I told them that's sooo not what I'm here for, but if they want to get together to do PT, maybe I'd consider it. The male-to-female ratio must have been 5 to 1. Oh boy...:p this could get interesting.

[tinkerlion]

how was the mile?

[sway2sway]

you're gonna be runnin' lickety split in no time, trying to keep away from the raging testosterone.

[angischy]

how was the mile?

I don't think it was anywhere near that long, but we weren't running on a real track or anything. It was more like rough-and-tumble cross country running, maybe 3/4 of a mile, plus the extra marching tacked on the beginning and end of the course (mind you, I use that word loosely).

Dropping and doing push-ups halfway because some people :rolleyes: weren't sounding off loudly enough/at all, that was probably the highlight, as far as hilarity goes. A total clusterfuck of ankles and feet in faces as people dropped quickly (catching on) to their bellies, in a sloppy version of push-up position, trying to catch their breath and hold themselves up off the ground until the command "down" was shouted, and with "up" you push up and count out "1, Petty Officer," etc...until ordered back to your feet to continue the odd pace of this learn/make-it-up-as-you-go fitness routine.
Also, the look on random picnicking families' faces as our group pounded past, that was great. If only boot camp took place so randomly in public places, it would be much more entertaining. I figure I'll get over the hilarity of it pretty quick once I'm doing the real deal in Illinois, but for now, yeah, I'm pretty amused at the whole concept.

In the meantime, I really need to practice my push-ups. I do them like such a girl, and without any upper body strength. Practice might not make perfect, but it'll ensure I get rid of any of that lunch lady arm flab (so sexy) that's trying to call my upper arms home.

you're gonna be runnin' lickety split in no time, trying to keep away from the raging testosterone.

You might be right. Then again, I'm so used to tuning out the noise I'm disinterested in, and finding my own solitude, even if just inside my head, that I don't think anything's really gonna get to me that much.

It will be an interesting test of willpower, this whole boot camp experience.

[the duke]

it all sounds exciting...and I bet your upper body will be svelt in no time :)

[angischy]

it all sounds exciting...and I bet your upper body will be svelte in no time :)

I bet it will take quite a bit of time to become svelte, but I'll settle for "not so damn weak" right now.
I made a connection today that is going to get me hooked up at the PAL gym just 2 blocks away. Free and close to home, I really have no excuse now. It's the gym that the cops and firemen (as if the Navy wasn't enough testosterone) all work out at. It's mostly just free weights, but that'll work. The pool I swim at and the track I should be running at are all adjacent to this gym.

[the duke]

sounds good...we're about to head into our proper "on court" pre-season tuesday...we've sposed to have been doing fitness training since we stopped a few weeks ago, but I haven't been as hard as I should be. SO, panic in the gym for the next 3 days trying to build up cardio...the arm/leg tone will hopefully come with that!

[lietuvaite]

angi, it does sound exciting. hope you keep having fun and a positive outlook throughout the whole experience

[angischy]

I've been making workout/running/swimming playlists for my ipod all morning, and I happened upon a bunch of cadence playlists online.
I can't imagine actually listening to this for fun, but for running/training, it seems to be working. I have been running on the beach, I go all the way up to 41st St and back, and that always seemed far before, but with the cadence stuff, I can go for a lot longer, easier. I credit the really solid rhythm (left, right, left) that keeps you going without missing a beat.

There are full albums on itunes you can buy. And apparently, there's even people mixing hip hop with military cadence, like this (http://www.tradebit.com/filedetail.php/1461981-Music-Rap-Hip-Hop). Who knew?

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61KDCKQ7RDL._AA240_.jpg

[angischy]

I had another DEP meeting with the US Navy today. More practicing getting in formation, doing turns in formation, saluting, and marching along through this big park as families with their kids held picnics and BBQed yumminess that I wanted to fall out of line to devour.
We were quite entertaining for them, I'm sure.

Can I just say that PUSH-UPS SUCK!!! Especially in a worn field with more dirt underneath than grass and tons of ants that call that patch home.
But all that doesn't such even HALF as much as people who don't follow instructions!
At some point we were stuck hovering in push-up position for like 5 minutes (this felt much longer, though, believe me...or better yet, go try it!) because every time we'd get to a count of 3 or so push-ups, some idiot would drop to his/her knees unable to continue.
Haha, unable to continue? Then go home! You're just making it worse for everyone!!!

We only had to do 15 push-ups as a group total each time this happened, but we must have done about 40 or so every time because we had to keep starting over.
http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/76955438.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF193861A1C1D75ABE90B400532C2CBFB5C99 284831B75F48EF45
I obviously need to keep practicing my push-ups, because I still suck at them, and feeling as weak and shaky as I did trying to hold that stance sucked. I don't mind doing the push-ups, I mind feeling weak. I want to feel strong. I'll get there, with work. Or, boot camp will be real hell if I don't. I know it will still be challenging, and I'm ready for that. I just don't want to be the loser who is not prepared and fux it up for everyone.

At least I know my weaknesses now and I have time to work on improving. It's not the running or the following orders, it's an utter lack of upper body strength.

Some of these kids are so young and obviously don't get it, this is a big game of follow the leader. They think they won't get caught or are just too dumb to realize their laziness affects all present.
Highly annoying to those who catch on quick or are on point in the first place. i.e. me.
Mistakes are bound to be made by all, but you've got to catch on quick as part of the group/team/unit or it's game over.
At least I'll get a good workout on account of all the f-ups we're all sure to make.

I'll miss next month's DEP meeting because I'll be at Langerado (boo-yeah!), but I have to keep at this PT stuff because time is flying by!
Hey Tink, you gonna PT with me in the Swamp? :p

[angischy]

It could be worse . . .
"Dogs are forever in the push up position." - Mitch Hedberg

[Mr. Cleanface]

Keep it up Ang...it will only make you stronger! (and ripped...SEXY! ;))

Thank you!!!

http://www.bearplugs.com/prodimg/ahc-10072.gif

[tinkerlion]

I'll miss next month's DEP meeting because I'll be at Langerado (boo-yeah!), but I have to keep at this PT stuff because time is flying by!
Hey Tink, you gonna PT with me in the Swamp? :p

i'll be your petty officer lady, but you ain't getting me to do fucking pushups;) if you fail to maintain the level of clean (the readoption of bonnaroo clean!) it'll be drop and give me 20!

[angischy]

i'll be your petty officer lady, but you ain't getting me to do fucking pushups;) if you fail to maintain the level of clean (the readoption of bonnaroo clean!) it'll be drop and give me 20!

Okay, deal! I wanna see you try to be tough and boss me around. :rolleyes:
No 5am reveille though, okay?

[angischy]

I'm now about 47 days away from my ship date of May 6th.
I officially enlisted in the Navy on November 13th, but only today did I receive my DEP book with all my training info in it, after months of asking for it and them telling me "we're all out."

So now the studying begins, along with more intense PT as the clock counts down.

Oh, and for the record, Tink wasn't much of a hard ass, but push-ups were done at Langerado . . . :p
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a99/angischy/2008Langerado/IMG_5685.jpg

[angischy]

Did I mention that I phucking hate doing push-ups? 45 Days and counting!

[CaraD.]

I love how "this aint livin" on the ball made its way into the push up shot.
you know, like push ups aren't living....
know what i mean?

[angischy]

Um . . . No, but could you drop and give me twenty, please? (Yes, right now) http://img390.imageshack.us/img390/8689/sticksmalleroy9.gif

[angischy]

I finally got the recruiting office to follow through and do the paperwork and submit all my transcripts correctly to advance my pay grade.
I will now go to Boot Camp as E-3, the highest rate I can start at. It's not much pay, period, but it is what it is: Money! Most of my living expenses are covered for the first year or two at least, so I won't need much coming in.

Just have to give a shout out and a big THANK YOU to Sway for the music she sent me. The disc with Jasper & The Prodigal Sons plus a little Lyrics Born is the one that's keeping me sweating in my living room/gym the most these days. Thanks gal! ;)

With 42 or so days left till my ship date, it's crunch time, quite literally. Crunches, sit-ups, push-ups, jogging, and a little yoga on the beach. Lots of water chugging and sweating.

Just found out today that I have a physical fitness exam (I use that term loosely) on 4/12 at my next Navy DEP meeting. They're gonna test me to see where I'm at physically prior to leaving for Boot Camp (http://usmilitary.about.com/od/navyjoin/l/aanavybasic2.htm).

For anyone who's curious, here are the Physical Fitness Standards (http://tkdtutor.com/11Training/NavyPRT/NavyPRTfemale.htm)
The charts on that page show the points earned for each (# of curl-ups & push-ups done in 2 minutes (on their own) & time it takes to run 1.5 miles). The average of the three must be at least 60 points.

Basically, to succeed at Boot Camp, my goal should be to do 84 sit-ups, 37 push-ups, and run 1.5 miles in under 14 minutes. That's aiming a bit higher than the bare minimum, and I have until the end of Basic Training to get to that level, but gee it sure would be nice if I was close to that prior to leaving. (not looking likely, but I am trying, dammit!)

Oh, and here's what a Typical Day (http://usmilitary.about.com/od/navy/l/aanavybasic5.htm) at Boot Camp looks like. Yeeha! Aren't you excited for me?!? :D

[harp420]

I know this is probably a dumb question, but ang you seem to be the one to ask:

Is there anyway to train (as a civilian) for a week or two in that environment? A few years ago, Tiger Woods went to train with the Marines for a few weeks and I was super envious. I don't want to enlist or anything, but would LOVE to work out and increase my mental toughness with those bad asses. I am not talking about the cheese ball boot camp style crap like on celebrity fit club.. But I am an athlete training right now, and I know I could keep up. I would love to try, so I just thought I would ask. I don't have the profile of Tiger, but do have the intensity.

Best of luck, your in for some serious shit.

[angischy]

Is there anyway to train (as a civilian) for a week or two in that environment? A few years ago, Tiger Woods went to train with the Marines for a few weeks and I was super envious. I don't want to enlist or anything, but would LOVE to work out and increase my mental toughness with those bad asses.

Are you famous, by chance? :p
If not, to my knowledge, the answer would be "no."

At least, not on base, and definitely not in an official "boot camp" setting. But you could probably arrange train with them in their off time, if you befriended a few, especially the Marines or SEALS. I think they'd probably love to abuse you like that. (heehee)

Ask around, check out some of the military forums online. I'm sure this could be arranged. Be careful what you wish for though!

[harp420]

thats funny ang, your right. Damn famous people and their benefits. Just remember when you are going through it, that on some level I would PAY for that kind of training. Which means I am crazy! But also in pretty good shape at this point. Its amazing what the body can do when you don't fill it with alcohol, tobacco, drugs or meat. Who would have thought?

[angischy]

Just remember when you are going through it, that on some level I would PAY for that kind of training. Which means I am crazy! But also in pretty good shape at this point. Its amazing what the body can do when you don't fill it with alcohol, tobacco, drugs or meat. Who would have thought?

Not so amazing after all, really. That shit's all poison that your body has to process out before it can continue with normal body functions (mas o menos). I'm free of alcohol, drugs, red meat, and never touch tobacco, but I still like my sugar (finally got a couple Cadbury Eggs today). They weren't even worth it :o

I may be getting paid to be there, but trust me, I'm gonna be paying FOR it, too. In sweat and tears, at least. (But bring it on!)

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/idea.gif Hey, if you're really in such great shape, um, can I come train with you for a week then right before I go of to RTC?
Then, right after basic, I can come return the favor and kick YOUR ass and abuse you like the RDCs do. So you get a taste of real life boot camp. You know, while it's still fresh in my memory! :p I may have some good aggression to unleash right about then. I think you're even near Chicago, aren't you? Are ya game?

[sway2sway]

Just have to give a shout out and a big THANK YOU to Sway for the music she sent me. The disc with Jasper & The Prodigal Sons plus a little Lyrics Born is the one that's keeping me sweating in my living room/gym the most these days. Thanks gal! ;)



I was so loving 'only in the south' today. he has got some wicked lyrics in there, smart man, I think.

my brother got me a new cd player in my car, with a woof button and did some speaker doctoring... who knew, I could resonate so-

- heaven, I tell you.

[angischy]

Does that mean you can push a button and make your car WOOF!
You know, like, instead of a horn? :p

What ever would we do without music? And just WHAT am I going to do without it at Boot Camp?!? :eek:
Maybe I'll have to join the Navy Choir, or something.

[sway2sway]

can't you have an ipod in your bed with you?

and yeah, I don't know what I'd do with out it- though I'd suppose I'd pay more attention to rhythms in nature, or even city sounds for that matter- it's everywhere, like air, ubiquitous.

i love the music
i love the music
music is me
music is you
music can be,
something we do
music is good
and music is right
and music can stand strong right through the night
and music can hold you
and music can keep you
safe from harm in her beautiful arms
music is the thing we do, thing we do, it's the thing we do
it's the thing thats gonna get me through
its the thing thats gonna get me through

-fat freddy's drop (something like that anyway)

[Barefoot2Dream]

I never realized so much of Navy Boot Camp is conducted indoors. Even some weapons training? :confused:

I could never enlist simply because of the whole no music thing. I can't even make it through a day with my kids without music. (yeah right, cause of the music, that's all :D). I guess that will just make you stronger on another level plus, they can never take from you the music in your head, right?

[angischy]

can't you have an ipod in your bed with you?

Hahaha, um, NOPE!!! :(
No ma'am, I am stripped of all such worldly belongings! An ipod, a cell phone, even a camera (huge GASP! here) are all not allowed. Contraband! (http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/l/blbringlist.htm)
I can't even wear normal underwear, it's "white cotton underpants" only :eek: for the duration.
I'm making one last trip to see my family soon, and my mother is being given a small bag to bring to my graduation.
It will contain all those things that I imagine I'll either miss or long for while I'm away plus a few somewhat luxury items like yummy soap, candy, gum, booze, etc, but you better believe that there are going to be some "normal" clothes in that bag: Jeans, t-shirt, a leopard print thong, you get the picture. Since I'm leaving from Miami to go up there, I'm not sure what that'll mean for things like my laptop and such, but, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it, I suppose. (Ship it right before I leave?)

I should have several hours (if not more) of "liberty" on my graduation day or weekend, and my big plan is to go spend a little time with my fam, have lunch, whatever, but then go check into a hotel, and be "NORMAL" for the rest of the day until I have to go back to base.
No tour of Chicago (BTDT), no long hours hugging (This ain't my 1st time away from home), just some normal every day stuff like taking a bath, watching TV, reading the newspaper or a non-religious or military book, listening to music, that sort of thing.
I may also choose to bid my family farewell quite early in the day, because after 8-10 weeks of being around people not of my selection, I may get all Greta Garbo and just want to be alone. i.e. LEFT ALONE.
Love my friends (none of whom will probably be there, only get 4 grad tix & Chicago ain't a short trip for most) and my family, but I think I might prefer to just be alone that day. Or go to a smashingly wonderful party (or live music event?!?) but failing that (or the permission to do so), I may pick nothing.
No orders, no demands, no push-ups, etc . . .

When I take leave, however, that'll be a different story. (Game on! :D)

[sway2sway]

white cotton underpants sounds like the only perk of this adventure you be going on.....

someone should bomb the leopard thong, in my opinion

[Miss Shark]

White cotton panties HOORAH!!!

[angischy]

white cotton underpants sounds like the only perk of this adventure you be going on.....

someone should bomb the leopard thong, in my opinion

I just figure if it's gonna work it's way up there anyways, why not start it out there to begin with? I can't stand watching people try to unwedge a wedgie.

Um, someone PLEASE change the subject!!!:rolleyes:

[angischy]

Hey, um, would any of you be willing to write to me while I'm at Boot Camp?
I know hardly anyone writes letters these days, and I wouldn't need anything special or lengthy, just a shout out would be really really appreciated to keep my spirits up.
I'll get mail call nightly, and time to write on Sundays and some evenings, but very few phone calls and NO internet access for 8-10 weeks. No care packages or sneaky stuff is allowed (I have to open it in front of my RDC) but even just a postcard that said "KEEP IT UP, SAILOR" would be a bright spot at the end of a rough day, I'm sure.

I won't have my official address until AFTER I'm there, but a phone chain/email list is being organized. PM me with your email if you're interested in being on it.

(Thanks in advance for anyone who actually would do this, I'm sure it'll mean more to me then than I can even imagine right now. I promise to write everyone back as time allows)

[sway2sway]

funny you should say that, I was just thinking yesterday, after I read that you can't even have a state of the art, non vibrational, personal life navigational tool (such as an mp3 player) in your bed with you- I thought, this poor girl needs my help- much as I have no understanding of what she is doing there, I could write her some letters, perhaps draw a few pictures.
apropros, as shark says.
If I was there, I think I'd ask the E bunny to pee on the letter he was going to send, let it dry before putting the stamp on (duh)- then I could slowly nibble away at the goodness you can only find in an E Rabbit's urine. But I won't pee on your letter ang, nor would you likely find much goodness in it, if I did.

rabbitsAreMoreThanCute&Furry@SuckitUp.com

[tinkerlion]

of course you'll be hearing from me lady. and let me know if there's anything i can do to help with the treeing/organizing bit of things as well.

[angischy]

of course you'll be hearing from me lady. and let me know if there's anything i can do to help with the treeing/organizing bit of things as well.

Ahha! That's it, you're enlisted Tink!
(I knew I could count on you) I'll be briefing you shorty.
Consider it your civic duty! :D (and thank you!)

[Miss Shark]

Sign me up!!

[Barefoot2Dream]

I'll be briefing you shorty.

of the white, cotton type? ;)

[Barefoot2Dream]

I couldn't help it. Really. :D

As we were discussing post cards the other day I was just thinking about this. The actual writing of personal letters these days is totally a lost art!

I am all up on this, please count me in. And when you finally make it to Monterey and are ever in need of someone to keep ya company during any brief time off (does that sound dirty to anyone else?:p) you know I am up for a road trip. I can be there in 2 hours flat!

[angischy]

And when you finally make it to Monterey and are ever in need of someone to keep ya company during any brief time off (does that sound dirty to anyone else?:p)

Not dirty, just ridic. :rolleyes:
And I am advance-accepting your offer to come visit me, Barefoot. Hell yes, I am! :p
There are 3 phases of school, and during the first one, I'm not allowed to do much, but I will have some free time on the weekends. Looks like you're over 3 hours from Monterey. I'd love to meet you halfway if I can hop a bus or something. Explore Yosemite? That'd be a decent halfway point maybe?
Tons to see out in Calif and I'm all about it!
Bring the kiddies!!!

[tinkerlion]

eric and i will be making our way to california next year. we want to see his family for a few days and then head north to meet up with you ladies. we've tossed around the idea of may for our anniversary.

[Barefoot2Dream]

That'd be fabulous! If I remember right, we celebrate our anniversary the same day? May 15?

[tinkerlion]

That'd be fabulous! If I remember right, we celebrate our anniversary the same day? May 15?

oh yeah! see now we have to make that work!;)

[angischy]

oh yeah! see now we have to make that work!;)

Mental note: mid-May meet-up with my phorum ladies and their husbands, I suppose, too ;)

[angischy]

I finally had my first Boot Camp dream during an evening nap today. It wasn't so bad, but it was nothing like Boot Camp, I'm sure.

The next month is gonna sail by so I'm trying to clear all the complications from my life ASAP so there's nothing to distract my focus once I'm there. Granted, they do a pretty good job at that themselves considering there's very little contact with the outside world during the time I'm there.

Selling/storing is ramping up, along with the workout regime. Mail forwarding request has been set up. All my bills are taken care of for while I'm gone. My direct deposit forms are ready. I'm packed (oh yes, I am, already. I'm really not allowed to take much, so that's an easy one).
All the little details are ready, and some of the big ones too.
I am almost set enough that I could leave tomorrow if I had to. It's crazy.

Condo's still not sold so I think I have to set up power of attorney with my Realtor for while I'm gone. That's a biggie. But that's about it.
Tick, tick, tick . . . http://www.buzzworks.nl/files/products/SailorGirl.jpg

[jahwork]

girl, you gots it goin on! cheers on all your proactivity.

[angischy]

The Navy's revamping their uniforms this year, and I'll be amongst the first getting issued these from Day 1.
Here are the new PTUs (http://www.military.com/military-fitness/navy-fitness/navy-introduces-new-pt-uniforms), gold and navy blue. :rolleyes:
http://images.military.com/pics/article-navy-uniform.jpg
I envision a future, years from now perhaps, where I will vow never to wear those colors again.
But I did eight years of Catholic school in brown/white/yellow plaid. This isn't quite that ugly. Gotta keep things in perspective!

[sauce.baby]

Yep, everyone's been revamping their PTU's. The Air Force changed theirs last year from a sweats type outfit to something simular to what the Navy is switching to [grey shirt, navy shorts]. The shirts got better [so soft!], but the shorts got worse. At least yours are longer, Mr. Sauce's are the short, running shorts kind lmao And the warm-ups to wear over top? OMFG. The material is SO loud. There's no sneaking around the house for the Mr. when he's wearing his PTU pants.

[angischy]

I had my final DEP meeting today before I leave and they did the Fitness assessment testing. I passed all but one part. I aced the mile and a half run, completing it in 3 minutes less than the alloted time :D. I did more than enough push-ups, but somehow, my body refused to do more than 40 sit-ups today. I only needed to do 43 in two minutes to pass. Um...WTF?!? I know I've been working out hard lately and am constantly sore, but to fail that part really sucked. I can go into the Recruiting station to be retested, but what a pain in the ass!

[angischy]

Also, my brain/emotions decided to get the best of me today after the run and I had a complete bust-into-tears breakdown right there in the middle of the whole stupid Navy recruiting district while we were drilling in formation. :( I don't know what triggered it, maybe it was a combination of all the endorphins from the run and perhaps some "oh shit this is for real" wave that passed over me. But it sucked. Luckily, I was able to excuse myself for a moment and pull myself together, but it was *not* a fun moment. Better now than at boot camp though, I suppose. :rolleyes:

[angischy]

To anyone in the pham who's interested in being on the email list while I'm at Boot Camp . . .
Shoot me an email (HeySailorAngi@yahoo.com) and add the address to your contacts list.

The plan is that whenever I get in touch with anyone (friends/fam/pham/etc), they'll email Tink and she'll send out an update to the list.
She'll also be emailing my mailing address to the list as soon as I find out. Sounds simple enough, right?

Short letters to say "hi" or offer anything motivational or completely silly as an escape from the strictness of the whole daily grind would be most appreciated.
Pictures are allowed as inserts in the letters but nothing else, and no funny stuff on the outside of the envelopes, either!

Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to do this. I'm sure it'll mean more than I can even imagine right now. :o

[hencoop]

I just want to wish you luck - I am trying to gear up to run in the NYC marathon this fall and know how hard it is to overcome the fear/fatigue factor in hard workouts. I've run a few races locally and sympathize with the endorphin rush / emotional turmoil. You CAN do it - and G love is an awsome running partner if you are allowed music... especially writing on the walls!

[angischy]

I just want to wish you luck - I am trying to gear up to run in the NYC marathon this fall and know how hard it is to overcome the fear/fatigue factor in hard workouts. I've run a few races locally and sympathize with the endorphin rush / emotional turmoil. You CAN do it - and G love is an awsome running partner if you are allowed music... especially writing on the walls!

Thanks for the luck and the empathy. Can I blame endorphins for that little meltdown, do ya think? I'd sure like to. :o
I can't take my ipod but they can't deny me the music stored in my brain!
I just realized, too, that GLaSS' new album will be out when I'm done with Boot Camp. I'll have to see if I can get it added to the bag of goodies my family's going to bring to my graduation. That should hit the spot right about then. :)

[angischy]

1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12! :eek:
The countdown is now at TWELVE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-YcBVEnLT8) DAYS!

Two weeks from now, I will have been through at least one full day. Granted, they'll only be processing days, lots of sitting around and waiting, but I'll have my uniforms and I'll be in the thick of it, ain't no turning back.
It's a little daunting, but I'm as ready as I'm gonna get, and I kind of just wish the big day was here already.
I'm prepared for a whole rollercoaster of emotions as the days draw nearer but I know I never get nervous about things until the very last minute.

[stricken]

You're the kind of person that make a real difference in this world. US Navy on your resume ain't gonna hurt. Prayers, love and admiration your way.

[tinkerlion]

how can it already be less than two weeks away? time flies.

this means i have twelve days left to bug the shit out of ya in a non-paper format:D

[angischy]

this means i have twelve days left to bug the shit out of ya in a non-paper format:D

Touché! ;)

[angischy]

Prayers, love and admiration your way.

Thanks, Mitch.

Send me lots of strength, too. Please! I need that now more than ever. Mentally, I'm feeling great but muscular...still feeling not strong enough. Especially when I try to do 8-count body builders (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=880aZVh9ZvU) - OUCH! These make me feel like a klutzy doofus, for sure.

[Miss Shark]

Oh man, I can't elieve the time is nearly here. I think I'd be stressing big time Ang-A-Lee!!! I vow to write when I can.

[tinkerlion]

everyone who wants her address at boot camp needs to remember to send angi a pm with your e-mail. i won't be posting it publicly where any weirdo can get it, but will send out the address and any updates through a special e-mail.

[angischy]

CARRIER (http://www.pbs.org/weta/carrier/) is a revealing story of daily life on a United States aircraft carrier, the USS Nimitz. Given unprecedented access by the Navy to the ship and its personnel, the filmmakers shot nearly 2,000 hours of high-definition video from May to November 2005, during a full six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf. For the first time, a television series takes a raw and personal look at the Navy’s role in this controversial war.

CARRIER premieres Sunday, April 27th at 9pm et/pt, only on PBS
It's a 10-hour series. This week is just the first episode. Here's a trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaOkBLx59u0).

http://www-tc.pbs.org/weta/carrier/assets/img/home_grid_main_05.jpg?Log=0

[angischy]

This is a really long preview (27 minutes) of the same series.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBombtcMJSg

It's not all propaganda or pro-military, but I'm sure they're hoping it adds allure to the service by putting human faces (& 5000 stories) and a different spin on it.
Funny, I thought the Navy was meeting their recruitment goals. The Army or Marines probably have more to hide though, I suppose. Hmmm :cool:

[sway2sway]

Funny, I thought the Navy was meeting their recruitment goals.

The USA is gonna need a hella lot more soldiers if they keep on their current trajectory. Perhaps they are just being proactive, they seem to keep sending soldiers off to war at an ever increasing rate and keeping them there longer.
And you know keeping them out for multiple tours of duty can only increase the amount of death, suicide, physical disability and mental illness- not to mention the retirement & AWOL factors.

They need a lotta bodies.

[angischy]

SEVEN DAYS!!!
By this time next week, I'll be sitting at MEPS, waiting waiting waiting for them to give me one more "all clear" and send me for my flight to Great Mistakes.

EEEK!!! YIPPEE!!! OH MY!!! FINALLY! OH NO!!!! http://www.theavettbrothers.com/scripts/images/emoticons/ohmy.gif http://www.theavettbrothers.com/scripts/images/emoticons/blink.gif http://www.theavettbrothers.com/scripts/images/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Miss Shark]

YIKES!!! WOW!!! GOSH!!! BUMMER!!! EXCITING!!!

Seriously, I'm going to miss you.

[angischy]

Seriously, I'm going to miss you.

I'm gonna miss you too, all of you...CRACKHEADS! *especially the few I see are actually online right now! LOL :p

Odd, right?

[tinkerlion]

i just had a slight shock when i looked at your signature, can it really be just 6 days already? i mean, i've been aware that it's really close, but less than a week already just seems a bit hasty all of a sudden...

[angischy]

i just had a slight shock when i looked at your signature, can it really be just 6 days already? i mean, i've been aware that it's really close, but less than a week already just seems a bit hasty all of a sudden...

F.I.V.E. = Freakin-A! It's Very Evident...the day is almost here! :cool:

[angischy]

Well, that's it for me now you guys. I'm off!
I'm headed for one last hurrah in Ft Lauderdale tonite (it's Fleet Week - oh my!) then I'm going to Sanibel to spend some QT this weekend before I'm "Property Of". Monday's booked solid and Monday evening, my recruiter's picking me up and taking me to the hotel where all the recruits stay the nite before. It's basically an attempt to keep us out of trouble (esp. since it's Cinco de Mayo!). Early to bed, early to rise Tuesday morning for fun stuff like urinalysis and re-swearing in, then it's off to the airport and on to Chicago.

I'll catch up with you all after Boot Camp. Thanks for all the support along the way. Hugs all around.
Have a great spring and summer, and don't forget to write! :p

[sway2sway]

bye angi

[tinkerlion]

just got a quick call from angi (and the last until july.) she's made it to chicago. she had a moment to grab a quick bit to eat and then it would be heading towards no sleep until tomorrow at 10 pm.

[stricken]

I got a package in the mail today from Angi. Music (original Jimbo Mathus and Mignonette by the Avett Brothers + a live), stickers, a fridge magnet and postcards. HAPPY MAIL! I am unable to tell her now "thank you!", so I'll tell you all. Angi is nice.

[tinkerlion]

she is indeed. my package is at the post office, but i can go get it in about an hour or so. [SIZE="1"](of[ course you can tell her your self once i get her address at boot camp.)/SIZE]

[tinkerlion]

angi sends her best to all the phamily!