Monday, March 9, 2009
Sons of Valor IV - Dalzell, SC March 2009
My Facebook status says I am bruised like a banana, and I truly am. But the event was great! Sons of Valor is a concept event WWII tactical closed to the public. Reenactors come from all over to participate in a simulated battle that uses scoring to determine a winner. I refer to these tactical events as "boys with toys" and paintball in WWII. There were some technical difficulties and some delays, but overall, the event was fantastic. I arrived on Thursday night bearing food for the guys already there. I brought my tent and sleeping bags to start setting up my camp. The guys helped me set up the tent. Our company CO then convinced me to stay overnight and hang out. We had a lot of fun around a campfire relaying stories of past events. Many of the guys involved in WWII re-enacting also participate in Civil War reenacting so there were lots of fun stories about other people's antics as well as our own. For the first time in a long time, I have to admit, I felt included and accepted. It's a difficult hobby for a woman to link up with a group that is mainly guys, but my group has been incredible for keeping me involved and included. But this was the first time I have felt really included by participants outside of our unit. And it was rewarding. But I digress...
Friday morning, I got up early and drove home, showered, had blood work done (routine, nothing is wrong), helped my roommate get her cats in their carriers for a vet visit, and then headed to work. After a couple of hours of very distracting working, I headed home. I made enough spaghetti for 30 people, packed, and got into my uniform. Then I drove out to my cousin's house and picked her up. We loaded her stuff and headed out. As soon as we rolled in, we were rushed to our campsite to get food to our guys. The tactical maneuvers were starting early. We rushed down and unloaded the food and the rest of our gear. Then my cousin and I hit the vendors. We were beckoned to take over the registration tent which we manned from 6pm to 11pm. It was slow at times, cold and dark too, but it really gave us a chance to meet a lot of people as we checked them in. Two German reenactors really spent time hanging out with us, and my cousin and I were very grateful as it made the time go MUCH faster. One of the Germans that visited offered to give us a tour of his camp so after 11pm, we strolled down and met some of the German reenactors which was a treat. I rarely get to spend much time meeting Germans just because of the way most of the events are set up. This reenactor also promised to let us ride in the halftrack after the battle. What a nice fella!
After a somewhat cold and restless night, my cousin and I stumbled out of our sleeping bags at 5:45 am. We dressed and filled the canteen. From that point, we did some hurry up and wait time. Evidently, there was a lot of trouble with several vehicles so transportation to the engagement area became a problem. As non-combatants, T (my cousin) and I were almost the very last to be taken over. Most of the morning was spent waiting for soldiers to come back and need aid from us (we were sporting nurse impressions). The person we had thought was bringing bandages was unable to make the event, and we were not aware until we were in the field. So T, being a good sport, took off the white t-shirt I had loaned her to wear under her jumpsuit, and we used a pocket knife to cut it up and make bandages. We felt quite rough and tumble. One of the HQ guys came back to the "aid station" and advised us the battle might be moving so we should hop in the jeep and go with him. We did. As we crossed a creek that the engineers had built a bridge for, the bridge gave way, and the jeep got stuck in the mud. The three of us got our and tried to help push as the driver tried to move the jeep. I was still behind the jeep when he decided to try to back up. T and the HQ fella about had a heart attack watching as the jeep driver nearly mowed me down, but I had a strong sense of self preservation and jumped basically into the thickest mud puddle to escape. So I was wet and muddy, but unharmed. It was pretty funny, actually, and the jeep came out of the mud.
After some indecision, we ended up back at the end of the road, pulling the water buffalo closer to the battle, and helping guys refill their canteens. The morning got warm fast, and the guys were all exhausted. My group had been out in the field all night and was still fighting in the day. Now, I'm not knocking any other groups, but my guys always impress me with their tenacity. They really take their roles as 82nd Airborne reenactors seriously. They're usually first in and up front. And they hang in there. After an unofficial lunch break, T and I caught up to them, and they looked tired. But when it was time to go, they got up and went without complaint. I'm always very proud of them.
T and I were also actually allowed to follow along behind the fighting force after lunch. Our CO reminded me to stay 30-40 yards behind the fighting, to stop when they stopped, and move back when they moved back. My need to not anger our CO made me overly cautious, and we stayed so far back that we actually lost sight of the fighting force and got left behind. Why I felt the need to not anger the CO, I don't really know. He's never been mean or anything, but I just don't want to see that. So T and I stood in the middle of the woods looking at each other with the "what do we do?" expressions. Finally, we heard gunfire. I said, "Well, I guess we should go that way." We cautiously made our way in the direction of the fire fight and took cover whenever we spotted anyone until we were sure who it was. We spotted Germans three times, but managed to remain unseen (even when one of them pee'ed in the woods in our direction). After what seemed like an eternity of walking, crouching, and low-crawling through bushes, we finally happened upon some Allies. Who should be with them? The CO who gave us the "where have you been?" look. Lots of looks during reenactments. Anyway, he walked over and asked. We told him, and he just kind of laughed at us. He then gave us an example of what 30-40 yards looks like. I'll admit - my bad. One of the event coordinators happened to be with this unit. He came over and told us to stay with him as most of the fighting was over, this group was being split up for one last heavy push, and we wouldn't be able to help much. So we stuck with him and had a good laugh about getting lost. The halftrack approached, and we took off our helmets to indicate we were out of the game. The vehicle stopped, and our German friend offered us all our promised ride. We greedily accepted and climbed up and in. As we rode back into camp, Allies gave us more looks. But it was all in good fun. We had our barbecue dinner, did some more bull-shooting, then packed up and headed home.
I was in bed by 9:30pm and slept until 11:00 am. I hate that I missed church again, but my body just would not cooperate. Wow, was I beat! Plus, I am embarrassed to admit I allowed myself to get really off track with my vitamins and protein over the weekend so by Sunday night, I was pretty sick feeling. But this morning, I feel much better (after two protein drinks, more sleep, and some vitamins). I worked out this morning and was not as sore as I expected. By this afternoon, I may be singing a different tune! Enjoy the pics.
Friday morning, I got up early and drove home, showered, had blood work done (routine, nothing is wrong), helped my roommate get her cats in their carriers for a vet visit, and then headed to work. After a couple of hours of very distracting working, I headed home. I made enough spaghetti for 30 people, packed, and got into my uniform. Then I drove out to my cousin's house and picked her up. We loaded her stuff and headed out. As soon as we rolled in, we were rushed to our campsite to get food to our guys. The tactical maneuvers were starting early. We rushed down and unloaded the food and the rest of our gear. Then my cousin and I hit the vendors. We were beckoned to take over the registration tent which we manned from 6pm to 11pm. It was slow at times, cold and dark too, but it really gave us a chance to meet a lot of people as we checked them in. Two German reenactors really spent time hanging out with us, and my cousin and I were very grateful as it made the time go MUCH faster. One of the Germans that visited offered to give us a tour of his camp so after 11pm, we strolled down and met some of the German reenactors which was a treat. I rarely get to spend much time meeting Germans just because of the way most of the events are set up. This reenactor also promised to let us ride in the halftrack after the battle. What a nice fella!
After a somewhat cold and restless night, my cousin and I stumbled out of our sleeping bags at 5:45 am. We dressed and filled the canteen. From that point, we did some hurry up and wait time. Evidently, there was a lot of trouble with several vehicles so transportation to the engagement area became a problem. As non-combatants, T (my cousin) and I were almost the very last to be taken over. Most of the morning was spent waiting for soldiers to come back and need aid from us (we were sporting nurse impressions). The person we had thought was bringing bandages was unable to make the event, and we were not aware until we were in the field. So T, being a good sport, took off the white t-shirt I had loaned her to wear under her jumpsuit, and we used a pocket knife to cut it up and make bandages. We felt quite rough and tumble. One of the HQ guys came back to the "aid station" and advised us the battle might be moving so we should hop in the jeep and go with him. We did. As we crossed a creek that the engineers had built a bridge for, the bridge gave way, and the jeep got stuck in the mud. The three of us got our and tried to help push as the driver tried to move the jeep. I was still behind the jeep when he decided to try to back up. T and the HQ fella about had a heart attack watching as the jeep driver nearly mowed me down, but I had a strong sense of self preservation and jumped basically into the thickest mud puddle to escape. So I was wet and muddy, but unharmed. It was pretty funny, actually, and the jeep came out of the mud.
After some indecision, we ended up back at the end of the road, pulling the water buffalo closer to the battle, and helping guys refill their canteens. The morning got warm fast, and the guys were all exhausted. My group had been out in the field all night and was still fighting in the day. Now, I'm not knocking any other groups, but my guys always impress me with their tenacity. They really take their roles as 82nd Airborne reenactors seriously. They're usually first in and up front. And they hang in there. After an unofficial lunch break, T and I caught up to them, and they looked tired. But when it was time to go, they got up and went without complaint. I'm always very proud of them.
T and I were also actually allowed to follow along behind the fighting force after lunch. Our CO reminded me to stay 30-40 yards behind the fighting, to stop when they stopped, and move back when they moved back. My need to not anger our CO made me overly cautious, and we stayed so far back that we actually lost sight of the fighting force and got left behind. Why I felt the need to not anger the CO, I don't really know. He's never been mean or anything, but I just don't want to see that. So T and I stood in the middle of the woods looking at each other with the "what do we do?" expressions. Finally, we heard gunfire. I said, "Well, I guess we should go that way." We cautiously made our way in the direction of the fire fight and took cover whenever we spotted anyone until we were sure who it was. We spotted Germans three times, but managed to remain unseen (even when one of them pee'ed in the woods in our direction). After what seemed like an eternity of walking, crouching, and low-crawling through bushes, we finally happened upon some Allies. Who should be with them? The CO who gave us the "where have you been?" look. Lots of looks during reenactments. Anyway, he walked over and asked. We told him, and he just kind of laughed at us. He then gave us an example of what 30-40 yards looks like. I'll admit - my bad. One of the event coordinators happened to be with this unit. He came over and told us to stay with him as most of the fighting was over, this group was being split up for one last heavy push, and we wouldn't be able to help much. So we stuck with him and had a good laugh about getting lost. The halftrack approached, and we took off our helmets to indicate we were out of the game. The vehicle stopped, and our German friend offered us all our promised ride. We greedily accepted and climbed up and in. As we rode back into camp, Allies gave us more looks. But it was all in good fun. We had our barbecue dinner, did some more bull-shooting, then packed up and headed home.
I was in bed by 9:30pm and slept until 11:00 am. I hate that I missed church again, but my body just would not cooperate. Wow, was I beat! Plus, I am embarrassed to admit I allowed myself to get really off track with my vitamins and protein over the weekend so by Sunday night, I was pretty sick feeling. But this morning, I feel much better (after two protein drinks, more sleep, and some vitamins). I worked out this morning and was not as sore as I expected. By this afternoon, I may be singing a different tune! Enjoy the pics.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Exhaustion
It's written on my face in big, bold letters today. But it's all right. It's the exhaustion of having good things going on in your life that are keeping you busy. Next weekend is my big WWII re-enactment weekend in Camden, SC. Woohoo! I'm overly excited and hyper. I need to work on packing and repacking my gear, but I pretty much have something planned every evening this week too. But it will all work out just fine because Sons of Valor IV is going to be a great time!
I apologize my last couple of posts have been so brief, but I really am lacking in time. It should slow down some next week.
Catch me if you can!
I apologize my last couple of posts have been so brief, but I really am lacking in time. It should slow down some next week.
Catch me if you can!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Repeat?
Change your thoughts and you change your world. -Norman Vincent Peale
I'm pretty sure I've used this quote before, but I felt like I needed to think about this again. It's so easy to get fixated on one thing in your life and ignore other very important things. That's what I feel like I've been doing. And I'm tired of doing that. That's really all I have to say about that.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Anniversary
'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. -Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Today would have been my 4 year anniversary with my ex-husband. This is my first anniversary since the divorce. I won't lie. This week has been difficult. Valentine's Day on Friday, my birthday on Monday, and today. Yesterday, I spent the afternoon in a weepy state. When I got to my Divorce Care Support Group, everyone assumed I had a cold because my nose was so red from being wiped so much. Quite attractive. But I wasn't there to be pretty. I was there because I needed to be. I have to say that doing the Divorce Care Support Group again has been a really good decision. God is really using it to heal me, even more so than when I first went through the 13 week series. I don't think I will go again, but I really needed to go this time even though I didn't think I did. The people have been so compassionate and understanding. I like to think I've made some lifelong friends who understand what it means to go through a divorce. Our society is so casual about it, but there is nothing casual about divorce.
Of course, I also have to admit that I have so many other irons in the fire right now that I'm feeling somewhat overwhelmed. It's a bad habit of mine to have too many things going at once. But I am learning not to pile on so much. And I'm learning to juggle, but really tackle one thing at a time. Most things just need prioritzing. I'll get there. God is with me as He is with all His children. And I need Him more now than ever.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Getting Back to Basics
Take time to discover who you are, and be your own person. --Paula Bachleda Koskey
So I haven't posted since my divorce was final. No, it's not because I've been so busy dating. Actually, more like I've been busy making an idiot of myself. That is a story that actually will not end up on this blog. Also, there's been drama in my personal life that also will not end up here. I know, I know. I normally write everything here, but the drama was not my personal drama so it's not my place. It has, however, kept me from writing. But I think I have some better perspective on the personal situations so I feel better.
One thing I do want to say for now, though, is that our God is a mighty and loving God. I really don't deserve the fact that He saves me from myself quite often, but I'm so thankful He does. Just having the personal relationship I have with Him is a blessing, but He gives us so much more. And I will also say, I really do need protection from myself. I could get myself in all kinds of trouble. I've been contemplating bad relationships, job choices, etc. I think I have just been so weirded out by the divorce that everything has felt up in the air. But I've been looking to God for help and yesterday, I just felt a sense of peace wash over me. It's as if God actually said to me, "Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46)." I feel like I'm being reminded that with the divorce, now is not the time for me to make ANY big decisions. The only decision I am content with is to go back to school. I enrolled at Southern Wesleyan College last week. Classes for my cohort will start in February as long as I can get all the paperwork taken care of in time. Whew! Big step, but I've needed to do it for a long time!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Finality
So I'm truly single now. It's mind-boggling to me that people walk into court married and out of court single. I knew it would happen, but it still just baffles me. My cousin and I spent maybe 5 minutes in court. The judge was filing the decree yesterday with the clerk of court, and my ex and I are truly divorced. It feels weird, but can I admit to feeling some relief and freedom. I'm no longer in limbo. I'm divorced, but single. This morning, I spent a long time on the phone with my ex hashing out some last financial details. Then I updated my bills calendar and re-worked my budget. It's going to be tight, but I'm confident that I'll make it. And things won't always be this tough. I will, however, be keeping my car for the rest of my life because once that thing is paid for. I don't think I can be talked into another car payment for a LONG time. Maybe if I eventually meet my goal of marrying Josh Groban or Micheal Buble for their money and voices then I can have another car payment once this one is paid off. Otherwise, it will be a hard sell.
It's a new life for me. In fact, I'm convinced it's time to start doing things that help meet my goals and dreams instead of just keeping the status quo. Next week, I'm meeting with an admissions representative from a local college. I'm going to do my best to complete my four year degree. I know this will open a lot of doors for me, even with my writing. A degree will really give more credibility to my writing and freelance work. I know it's a step in the right direction. Eventually it will truly help me to make more money and be more self-sufficient, which is my main goal. It will also help with my secondary goal of meeting the first goal by doing work that I enjoy.
Before I sign off, I want to say thank you to so many people that have prayed for me and encouraged me in the last few weeks (months). You know who you are, and you're greatly appreciated. And to those who were able to make it to the girlie party last night, thank you so much for coming! I had a great time, and it was the perfect way to end the day.
I'm hoping my posts will really start taking a new tone again as I move on with my life and learn more about myself. Everyone, have a wonderful weekend!
It's a new life for me. In fact, I'm convinced it's time to start doing things that help meet my goals and dreams instead of just keeping the status quo. Next week, I'm meeting with an admissions representative from a local college. I'm going to do my best to complete my four year degree. I know this will open a lot of doors for me, even with my writing. A degree will really give more credibility to my writing and freelance work. I know it's a step in the right direction. Eventually it will truly help me to make more money and be more self-sufficient, which is my main goal. It will also help with my secondary goal of meeting the first goal by doing work that I enjoy.
Before I sign off, I want to say thank you to so many people that have prayed for me and encouraged me in the last few weeks (months). You know who you are, and you're greatly appreciated. And to those who were able to make it to the girlie party last night, thank you so much for coming! I had a great time, and it was the perfect way to end the day.
I'm hoping my posts will really start taking a new tone again as I move on with my life and learn more about myself. Everyone, have a wonderful weekend!
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