WHERE YOU HANG YOUR HAT

Mustache of the Year 2011

2011-04-16T18:42:00.010-05:00

Coffee casa on a Friday afternoon.

2009-08-05T02:21:00.000-05:00

Today was typical, not enough to do and what I had to do wasn’t essential for my daily operations, nor to the external world outside my own. We woke, went to the gym, made lunch and delivered one to David. Then I returned home after a failed attempt at volunteering (which was due likely to the anticipated typhoon readjusting my friends schedule). Once home I got bored. Surprise, surprise. I watched “The Italian Job” with the fantastic Charlize Therone while eating my sack lunch alone and once it was over I decided to get up and go do something.

While this blog is starting off rather pathetic, almost depressing, what I have come to understand is the opposite. Now that I am in the process of signing papers for a job I am beginning to finally enjoy free time. Enjoy the fact that no one was really put out because I didn’t or couldn’t fulfill a task today. And, while I would prefer the opposite, I am encouraged by the former, namely my freedom to create a day for me to enjoy.

Thus, I have ventured to Coffee Casa, likely the coffee shop with the BEST espresso on island. I parked myself against the North brick wall with a nearby electrical outlet now adjoined to my laptop and my laptop to my itouch equipped with Japanese translator. An Americano sitting in between my outstretched arms while typing this message, after having now accomplished nearly an hour of Japanese study. This part of my day I love!

Earlier this week my good friend Chris, whom is now fluent in Japanese after living here over 4 years, returned a favor. See, over 4 years ago I met with Chris on multiple occasions and worked with him on basic Japanese phrases prior to his big move to Okinawa as an English teacher. We would meet over coffee and practice “kore wa cohi desu.... this is coffee.” And, “Toilre wa doko desu ka.... where is the bathroom?” I wasn’t a guru by any means, but I like to think that I helped him, at a minimum, get excited about his journey to this strange and wonderful world.

Fantastically, we ended up on the same island -- and him and David have become great friends since. Chris’ friends Brett, Todd and Ryoko have also become our dear friends, along with his girlfriend Asuka as well. Usually they are our spur to adventure and just enjoy the days. I’ve included some pictures of us on our adventures. Get to know these faces if you plan to visit.... you’ll likely be seeing them often! And you’ll be the better for it. We truly have been gifted some incredible friends!

So, in returning the favor, Chris has been helping me and encouraging me in studying Japanese again. I’ve been what I like to call “stuck in a rut” not knowing exactly what to study or what to use when I learn something new. So, he’s been guiding me so that I can finally have deeper conversations with all my friends who speak Japanese as their native language. There is so much to learn, but I finally feel like I’m learning something useful again. My good friend Yuka helped me to listen to Japanese better and now Chris is helping me to speak in Japanese better. I haven’t been so excited about studying in months!

I love the life we get to experience while here in Okinawa, from the atmosphere and culture to the language and the food. I’m happy to have some reflection time before (hopefully) starting my job. And, I’m happy to be in love with learning again. I’ve always heard that we as a people should never stop learning -- and I hope that everyone reading this is encouraged in their own way to learn more, experience more, and truly enjoy more of what surrounds us all!

Getting your Kick’s on Route 66!

2009-07-26T02:13:00.001-05:00

The month of July, and the summer for that matter, had David on multiple trips around the world. First to Nevada and South Korea, then to Australia. So, in July I decide to have another adventure of my own. I had been overdue in visiting my best friend Megan at her home in America. We had planned to visit her and her husband Joe while on our drive to Seattle last year in August, but they moved from Cali to Kansas the month prior to our journey. Then in March when we returned for the wedding of our great friends Jon & Kelley Sunkin the McClendon’s decided to come to Oklahoma during our trip. It was only a few weeks after this March journey that Megan called me with some bad news. She had been diagnosed with Breast Cancer, and while the doctors agreed that she would be cancer free within the year, we can all say that it has been a shock and a trial for her and all who love her. Thus, I decided that it was time to finally make the trip to see her - and it was great.

I bought a plane ticket which took me on a 13 hour flight from OKA to D.C. with a connecting flight to OKC. After a few days of recovery I made my way to Kansas City, Kansas and had a girls weekend at last. I befriended penguins, watched kickball duels, was a consumer of independent movies and joined Cowboy Bob (or Billie or Buck) on a horseback riding extravaganza. It was great! I should also be sure to note that I ate my first ever GLUTEN FREE PIZZA made in a restaurant! And, it was delicious.

There is something about having a friend for so long that makes the relationship easy. Meg and I are arguably very different adults from who we were when we became friends at the age of 5, but being there throughout life has a way of making you family I suppose. We both still love rocking out to girly music and enjoying a chick flick. We can talk for hours on anything from star gossip to politics in America. But what I feel mostly is that she is something like my little sister. I get to be the older one because my birthday comes first. I was so glad to be able to spend time with her this summer - that trip was the best decision I had made all year!

Since I was back in the U.S. I was sure to visit family at every turn. Since I drove to Kansas I made a stop in Cushing to see my beloved niece and nephew Kate and Kalen and their Mom, Dad, Grammy and Pawpaw whom I like to call Brandi, Dan, Della and Willie. This was the first trip that Kalen and Kate remembered who “Uncle Jenny and Aunt David” were... we are still working on the gender correlations with English words however. But, being remembered was such a happy surprise! It made me feel very loved!

Next I made a quick trip to Dallas where I met my sister Anna for a fabulous day of shopping. We hit everything from IKEA to Northpark Malls’ Macy’s and Anthropology. We ate mexican food at On the Border (my very favorite!) and smoothies at Jamba Juice. And we even fit in a movie, “The Hangover”, which for mature audiences I highly recommend.... and by mature I mean over 21 years of age - emotional maturity may stunt the enjoyment of the feature film. It amazes me that at one point in time I was terrified to talk with my sister, that I would sneak into her room and try on her clothes and play with her Sega, but never tell her, and now we couldn’t be more similar. We love hanging out and talking and we “get” one another’s philosophy and humor. Time with siblings does funny things.

Interspersed within these trips I hung out with my Dad and my brother. I even got a yoga lesson in with Lisa. I tried to balance it out and I think I did a pretty good job. See, I’d go play tennis with Jay followed by eating a full bowl of ice cream over the TV show Castle with Dad. The puppies even got some quality time during some park walks and runs - despite the 100 degree heat. To me it felt like mid-February temperatures because there was virtually no humidity. It felt great!!!

Last, but certainly not least, I was able to meet up with Nikki and Patrick - my best friends originally from middle school, but whom I still regard as my dearest friends to this day. We adventured Norman and talked Japan. And as a result of these adventures, I have now formed a bond with another lover of all things Japan - Philip. I think we will be good friends too!

While each of these stops hold a fun memory from my trip, none can I recommend as much as my dinning experience at ‘Pop’s’ on Route 66. These pictures are from this novel restaurant in Arcadia, OK. You won’t be remiss if you take my advise to check out the atmosphere and try some soda or a shake.

As a final thought I’ll share a future adventure I look forward to having: to one day travel Route 66. If you have any recommendations or must see’s please pass them along!

-Here’s to getting your kick’s on Route 66, Cheers!

Half a year later...

2009-06-09T23:06:00.011-05:00

... I've finally come back to the blog-o-sphere to update you on our adventures. While blog entries have been few, adventures have been many, so I will try my best to add a few entries with some grand pictures for documentation purposes in follow-on segments. For now, here is the run down of what's been happening.

January and February were relatively cold here in Okinawa, so we enjoyed the 75 degree days and evenings while walking around the local areas. On January 17th we participated in a squadron function called "Okinawa Amazing Race". The event didn't disappoint. Equipped with ninja and duck head gear (see photo) and a list of sights to see in Okinawa, our team ventured out into the unsuspecting Japanese public with water guns, balloons and a list 2 pages long of places to see.

The goal: to find the most answers to the list of questions and to complete a number of relays set up at various locations with better times than other teams. The rules: No Rules. So sabotage was encourage (i.e. water balloons, etc.) Our team came in 2nd, although there may have been some miscounting (we probably shouldn't have placed at all!), but we won traditional Shi-Sa dogs which now adorn our front doors. What an event! Our team, sporting a 1990's mini-van the size of Texas, really did an incredible job. It was a pleasure folks.

The best thing about this event was likely the Japanese protesters who were at one of the rally locations. They were protesting the military presence and made up a fierce group of 10 with 2 banners each. Obviously military related, as all our cars have the special "Y" license plate representing "Yankee", the protesters made their way closer to our car in the parking lot. You would have thought they would yell, make us feel unwelcome, even throw trash at us, but instead we became friends. Yes, yes, the Japanese protesters were gracious enough to tell one member of our team that his ninja costume with Japanese Kanji was displayed upside down, but that he looked nice; they waved to us and cheered on our costumes; and even helped us back out of the parking lot which was a tad bit small for the beast of a van we were driving. What an incredible cultural experience!

February did not disappoint either, with a gumball rally (similar to the "Okinawa Amazing Race", but this time with a camera and number of our new English teacher friends, c/o my good friend Chris from Oklahoma; a big welcome for our Florida friends the Bianchi's and the Elgersma's; and last, but certainly not least, a Valentine's Day weekend that was not only fantastic b/c David is a phenomenal husband and best friend, but b/c I got to work at the local Flower shop during their rush weekend!

March we were able to make it back to the states for a short trip to Oklahoma, sharing good times with family and a few friends. We celebrated my Mom and Anna's birthday which thanks to Dad we actually have some pictures (way to go Dad)! Vinnie's best friends Gabe and Bean were able to make it all the way to Oklahoma. Bean even brought his beauty named Jen, just about the cutest pregnant gal anyone has ever seen! After enjoying a hearty Big Country Breakfast the guys and Jen hung out while I excused myself to a long "nap" which I realized later was caused by food poisoning from the night before. While I won't say food poisoning is really "worth it" for most things, it was great to have hung out with my best friend Megan and her hubby Joe. It had been so long since we were all together, Meg & Joe, Bean, Gabe & Jen.... thanks to you all for making yourselves available! It really meant a lot!!!

We finished this trip in true adventure style, starting with one of the most beautiful weddings I've ever had the pleasure of seeing. Our dear friends Kelley and Jon were wed on March 28th (if my memory serves me right) and we loved every minute of seeing those two tie the knot. We were also able to spend a fantastic weekend with our best friends, the Cheeks, who now live in South Carolina. I am still waiting on the pictures she took b/c in true Jenny fashion I forgot the camera and in true Meg fashion she hasn't downloaded them to the computer yet. Oh, we're a mess! These two couple were not only great additions to great friendships made in Florida, but were kindred spirits! What a great joy to see them again!

April was my last month as the Disaster Services Chair with the KAB American Red Cross. While I am still a volunteer, and have now joined the bowling league, I am no longer heading up the Disaster Services Department. Instead, I am busy applying for jobs in my career field. I have met some incredible people while on island and I hope that some of these interactions will help to lead me to the "right" place for me to contribute my skills. I'll keep you all posted!

Finally, May gave us some exciting changes, including a move into our new home! Our fist house! We are still renters (being as neither Vinnie nor I have suddenly become Japanese citizens this year), but we have so much space to host guests, family and friends alike! I'll write more on this later, as well as the other exciting events of May.

One thing that hasn't changed is how much we miss and love everyone back at home and on their own adventures. Please keep sending us your updates, phone and email too! Thanks for everyone who has added us to their blog. We love checking them out, especially the photos! Till the next segment, we're sending you our love from Japan!

January 7th, 2009, Wishing you a Merry Christmas

2009-01-06T20:42:00.003-06:00

The world in an interesting place, the more we globalize, connect with new technology, travel, learn. As I was looking at news articles this morning, shadowed by all the sad in the headlines, I learned that today, January 7th, 2009, Orthodox Christians are celebrating Christmas around the world.

Here is a link to the BBC site with some great pictures: In pictures: Orthodox Christians

A photo says a thousand words, and these remind me today that there is peace and joy and happiness in many homes tonight.

Bonsai Trees and Christmas Lights

2008-12-24T03:04:00.008-06:00

With exception to the beautiful 70 degree, beach sunsets and the occasional Santa in a green suit, Christmas has finally arrived in Okinawa, Japan. How are we celebrating this year?, you may wonder, why the same way everyone else is celebrating... eating great food, with great company and by playing "Rock Band", this years newest and coolest video game. Kids? No, of course we still don't have kids. This video game is basically a full-on adult karaoke masterpiece! Not only can you be the singer, but you can play the drums, the guitar and even the tambourine!

Yeah, all my college roommates are probably wondering why I have regressed, or perhaps why I wasn't this much fun in college. All of Vinnie's friends are probably doing the same thing as him... trying to regain the fun which was supplemented with academic hardship and the occasional group push-ups in the hall during his early 20's. Never-the-less we are enjoying our holiday season.

We miss our family and friends a lot, though. There is nothing quite like playing 7 consecutive games of liverpool rummy or like discussing the hit TV series Lost as if we were in a book club. We wish we could stop by Cushing's famous Baker Pharmacy and give good ol' Doug a hard time, wish we could stop in at every Braum's Ice Cream and Dairy store and gain a few pounds on peanut butter fudge double scoop sundae's in a cup, wish we could visit Classic 50's, yes Classic 50's, except this time we would be too old to pull into the "cool side". Yet, there are new adventures here, we have been put here for a reason, and we are enjoying the journey as we discover new memories we will one day look back on in awe.

God has been good to us this year. Despite the stuff that life seems to through at you time and again, he has given us affirmation and hope toward wonderful things. In particular, a drawing which I made around the age of 5 was found a few weeks after our arrival here in Japan. I've included a copy of this picture, which if you will notice is a distinct reflection of our view outside the window of our 6th floor apartment (this view can be seen in the main picture at the top of the blog). From nowhere else could we capture this view. God knows far more than I do, and I thank him for sharing a bit of his view with me. At least for me, I feel God has great things in store for me, for us, and we could not be more thankful to him for his generosity in this affirmation, this kindness and this grace.

We hope this Christmas, and this year has brought great things to each of you. In particular, we hope that you have felt loved by those around you. We love each of you, specifically, for whom you are, who you will become, for the beauty for which each of you possess. Thank you for being a part of our lives, watching us and walking with us.

Blessings this season, praying love with be a distinct part of your experience,
Merry Christmas!

Around the World in 60 Days

2008-11-25T01:34:00.007-06:00

We left America for the Pacific in August, we ventured back to the states in October, and we made it "home" to Okinawa in November... Quite literally, we have traveled around the world these past few months.

We are happy to be home now, finally having our apartment set up helps a lot! The sunset is beautiful from our balcony and with all the new gadgets we have set up the place is user-friendly and does most of the chores for us (i.e. Roomba). Thus, this past weekend, with nothing to fix around the house, we heading out to a small island for an adventure...

The island is called Izena Jima and is located just off the shore of Okinawa. It is part of the Ryuku Islands and as of 2008, the village has an estimated population of 1,764 and a density of 114 persons per square kilometer. That is a lot of people for such a tiny island!

One of our new friends (Ryoko) was nice to let our group of 7 stay at her families old house, so we had a place to stay located just down the road from the water. I should also insert here that thanks to Mr. Chris Madole - a good friend who just happens to live in Okinawa - we were invited to go on this incredible trip! I have a feeling we wouldn't have as much fun here if Madole wasn't such a cool guy to introduce us to the area!

This is a picture of the house... a true Japanese style...it was so beautiful!

During our stay we visited the Nakijin Castle, Climbed a rather large hill, walked on the beaches of Izena, enjoyed a true Okinawan meal at an izakaiya, and overall had a pretty excellent time.

Click HERE to see more pictures of our trip.

Special "thanks" go out to Ryoko, Chris, Bret, Todd, Mel, Vinnie, and Roy for wonderful company!

Late October Update...

2008-11-01T00:58:00.002-05:00

Well, we have been in a sort of "holding pattern" for settling into our new life in Japan, if you ask me. :) Life is great, the move to Okinawa went really well, and so far we LOVE IT!

All that said, a few weeks after we arrived (arrived in late August), Vinnie was sent back to the states for training for about two months (October-November). I stayed in Japan to get our place set up, furniture moved in, etc.... but then I got kinda bored and lonely. People are great there, really friendly, I actually have some long time friends who already live on the island, but since I had the opportunity to travel home and to stop in and see Vinnie, I elected that option!

Right now I am in Oklahoma, and will visit both our families through November 12th, and Vinnie will be in Florida for the next few weeks doing some additional training. While I miss him terribly, I know this training will serve him great in his daily mission, his skill level, and his safety. Plus, while he does miss me, he is getting to do some pretty cool stuff and I know he is having a blast!

Once we return to the land of the rising sun we plan to finally become SCUBA certified. So for all you picture junkies eager to see the grandeur of Okinawa, get ready. You are one month and one waterproof camera away from seeing fish like you have never seen before!

One last shout out, thanks to Bob for inspiring this post. It was about time for an update! :)

America Town... Kinda like China Town, but American

2008-10-11T10:39:00.007-05:00

This is where we live, American Village, and we love it. We have included the slide show of our neighborhood here, or you can see our favorite spots of the island on our web site page, "images".

While many don't see these large white wind chargers, glorified windmills, as pieces of art, they have sure changed the opinions of all who see it here in Okinawa, with colorful lights to adorn its rotations. This is actually a pretty cool site. Plus, we have the ferris wheel, the shops, the street entertainment, and let us not forget the ocean!

Sunset beach is our nearest stop, and the pictures of the water are taken from this spot. While you are able to swim in the beautiful waters here, the beaches themselves are coarse, like un-ground seashells. So, we don't recommend laying out without a towel!

Welcome to our home! We hope to get a better camera to record a live street performance one night.... and then post it here. Maybe, then, we will get some visitors! :)

Adapting to the Right Side of the Road, Whichever Side that May Be

2008-10-05T05:39:00.003-05:00

After moving to Japan we were promptly herded into multiple classes for cultural, military and community protocol. Everything from how to throw away garbage to information on Dragon Boat races were provided. We attended a class to learn the rules of the road in Okinawa, which basically consisted of them advising us to not do anything stupid and if someone does something stupid to you it will likely still be your fault, because you are foreign. This sounds harsh, but the Japanese are notorious for being the most courteous drivers. If anything should happen to the vehicle it will most likely be a parking ticket.

So, we take the class, and then take the test. We passed!

Now, over 5 weeks later, I still find myself getting into the passenger seat, located on the left side of the vehicle, and placing my right foot down on the "imaginary peddle" and putting my hand on the shifter, moving out of "P" and into "D3". The windshield wipers also get a work out from time to time when wanting to turn into the next lane, but only once have I tried to use the windshield wipers while actually signaling right.

It's funny though... while we obviously have phantom senses, those reactions that have become ingrained in our every day behaviors, we, as creatures, adapt surprisingly well.

It finally feels like home in our apartment, and in Japan. Our final shipment of goods arrived and our final delivery came this morning. I spent the day redecorating and organizing our clothing into summer and winter categories. For about an hour, spread out, I mumbled in Japanese to our favorite maintenance worker that "I would be home tomorrow to open the door for you to paint"... "Please drink some water since it is so hot outside"... and the like.

To tell you a bit about our new home I must preface by saying, we couldn't have found a better beginning than the apartment we live in here in Japan. Overlooking the East China Sea and Mihama's city center known as "American Village", the life of people below our sixth floor apartment abounds. Their are likely over 50 restaurants within a 10 minute walk of our front steps. Numerous coffee shops, to include 2 (two) Starbucks locations, reside within 3 blocks. The cherry on top is perhaps the eclectic array of street performers who ascend the sidewalk galley just outside the arcade; performing everything from magic to music, traditional to modern. These people are talented, really talented, and they play for exposure and not money. The concept of gratitude is very different here, and I believe I may still be perplexed by their honorable and hardworking service with no notable reward (tip) anticipated, nay allowed, to follow. The singular downfall to our location is the wild beasts they call "motorcyclists". Very different from the American motorcycle, these speed rockets shriek a mesquito-like howl up and down the streets. Some driven by 5 foot girls with perfect curls and 4 inch heels. This is quite a sight. But, we have adjusted... and again are amazed and thankful for how well we adapt.

We reside in a development called "Lion's Villa", which is created by the largest developer in Okinawa, Japan. The design centers around tradition Japanese elements carried out in a modern format. For example, we have a tatami room, but its mats are perfectly square, not rectangular as in traditional style. We have two bedrooms, a living room which is centered between the kitchen with a serving bar opening into the room and toward the back porch which overlooks American Village, the water and the Ferris Wheel you see at the top of today's blog. In fact, this picture was taken from my camera the day we decided on the apartment, but sincerely can do it no justice. A Japanese style bathroom divides the toilet area from the tub and sink, with the utility room mixed in with the bathroom area. At first it seemed a strange design, but soon you realize how much more it makes sense--sanitation, efficiency, everything except decor. I, personally, don't find the washing machine a particularly elegant object to look at, but I suppose we do have one for utility, not visual delight. All in all, it is spacious for the two of us. Entertaining, yet efficiently located just outside the gate to base. It is home.

Next door we found a delightful restaurant which serves sushi and bento boxes, a rather formal Japanese dinner. Among other favorites include the walk to "Sunset Beach" where the ocean meets man's creation of the city lights and a large illuminated wind charger.

The people near here are friendly and kind. Many speak English to some degree and most are patient enough to let me try my hand at Japanese. While we haven't met any neighbors here at our complex we aren't surprised. The Japanese home is considered a very private and personal place. A retreat toward family, from society, if you will. However, they do like their bumper stickers. And, it looks like we have some Japanese UT fans on the island.

Reminded often of wisdom my mom imparted on me a few years ago, I recall her saying, "people are people everywhere; just look for the good". And so we have. Finding even in that statement the universality that we all share: We all want to love and be loved; we are need to engage and be engaged; we are each individuals and yet collective peoples. Searching out the good, shedding the evil, and continually adapting to our concept of our worlds' perspective, we adapt.

I am so happy to be adapting to our world, here in Japan.

Hot Meals & Good Company

2008-09-02T00:22:00.003-05:00

We have now completed our cross country drive, spectacular. Making our longest stretch from Florida to Austin in a bit over 12 hours, eating at five (5) Mexican Restaurants from Texas to California, and driving through just about every terrain in North America; We have made it to California and up to our final destination, Seattle, without too much of a hitch. It was a wonderful sight! Best were all the beautiful, smiling, faces to great us at each of our stops. We have great friends and family... tremendous support and love. THANK YOU!

Originally, our 15 day adventure sounded like a piece of cake. Be in a different location each night. See the desert to the plains, from the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Ocean. No sweat! Unfortunately, it seems that both David & I took on a hitchhiking friend somewhere along the way named "nasal congestion" who didn't get the hint that his presence was not welcome. Thus, today we have spent the majority of our time recovering, while overlooking the beauty that lies just outside our 19th floor window in downtown Seattle.

Since our adventure doesn't stop here... not in the least with a full month ahead of us as we hustle around the foreign streets of Okinawa finding a refuge (really a nice apartment of some sort with a large balcony and living space for entertaining, a dish washer preferably, and of course a waterside view) and our bearings (with the time change I am certain we will also be knocked out and catching up on sleep for a couple of days) ... we don't mind the quite morning today.

Seattle has a charm not easily summed up in a word. The people are very kind, and they sincerely want to interact with one another. We have never been to a large city where it is customary, nay safe, to walk down the street and "make friends", beginning to carry on witty banter with perfect strangers. Elevator jokes to lighten the stuffy mood as we visit 10 different floors with 10 different people, a lovely lady at the US Post Office who not only made us smile, but everyone else around her. Laughter is something these people seem to not only enjoy but keep as a central tenant of their daily life. Even the homeless in the town have a sense of humor... it seems as if the idea around here is harmony and happiness.

A society grown from true hippies. As noted by the hemp festival filling the downtown area yesterday afternoon.

Luckily, we didn't attend this eclectic event. Yesterday, instead, we went to visit our hot spots for this journey, the Seattle Public Library (No, I am not just a nerd wanting to study, this building is a tremendous work of art in architecture and organic & recycled materials, Mere & Alexandria!), the Public Market on Pike Place (watch for a later blog on this topic-- "Our Journey to Mecca") and down to the used car lots where we said our final "good-byes" to the Altimeter (David's Nissan Altima; a beloved car for over 5 years).

We are now about to venture out into the unknown, again. Perhaps the Space Needle, a ferry boat ride, and an evening out at a fancy dinner. We will post pictures soon... I am sure we will be visiting the library again any day, and perhaps this time because we are nerds!

A Student No Longer

2008-08-03T06:59:00.015-05:00

Vinnie officially graduated today. We all knew he could do it, become a real live pilot, but sometimes it felt like it would take forever for this young chap. Indeed, graduating with flying colors, pun intended, he walks on clouds knowing that he has worked so hard to become an "Eagle Driver". Humble as he is, we all have the right to cheer him on... and so we will as he continues to train in the jet and become better each day.

We are all so proud of you and all the class for making it! A bonus is that you all are great people too, and for the most part have exceptional people skills!!! Brains, Brawn and Personality are a rare combination, but you have achieved!

Here are some pictures of our friends and families at graduation day. Also, you must check out the stunning photos of the class at the jet... what studs!

The Green Apron

2008-07-05T04:55:00.000-05:00

Working at Starbucks is like nothing else... my job, as barista, working mostly the 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., shift consists of making peoples day start out in the right direction. With a stellar group of fellow baristas, a fun manager, and all the coffee I could dream of at the tip of my tongue -- not literally, that wouldn't be sanitary, now would it -- what more could I ask for?

It is a great feeling to make people smile. My adopted quote, "Happy (insert day of week here, i.e. Monday!" has won many a friend. There are the occasional gruppies, but who could blame them... the sun isn't up, the caffeine isn't running yet. While I have had a number of great jobs, fun jobs, jobs that have taught me many skill-sets, I am not sure they could compare to the knowledge of efficiency in work and of how to get along in life as much as this one has in my short few months at Starbucks. The company is one that I respect, with a great interior and exterior business structure, ethical bone and creative style. The concept of creating an experience, one that will shape a person or a group, is highly unique. At minimum I would say that the Corporation has been able to successfully grasp a great idea, implement the idea, and see the enormous benefits it gains from connecting with another human beings in a public space. How neat!

I am really going to miss my job at Starbucks.... miss my barista friends Alicia, Jeremiah, Josh, John, Nikki, Candy, Casey, 'Ben/Jerry' and of course Nick! (So sorry if I spelled any one's name wrong or left a name off... you guys are all AMAZING!) And, I'll miss all my regulars!!!

Maybe one day I will be able to work at a Starbucks in Japan... "Irrashimasee.... kohi, dozo!"

When National News Leads With A Story About Meercat Manor...

2008-06-24T20:26:00.005-05:00

...It's a good day! This is one of the many things I am thankful for at present. With so many stories, ranging from sad (i.e. war, famine, suffering) to frustrating (i.e. the election drama, political banter, education funding cuts), what a relief it is to see an entertaining and enlightening drama, from unassuming creatures, become a national, neh, beloved, pastime.

Similar to the happy stories of these rodent-turned-personified, lovable, household favorites, the Vincents' have only happy stories to share. One of which is our excitement for the summer activities. As we count down our final days here in Florida we are continually reminded of the opportunities the sun-filled skies and the Florida beaches supply. We recently received our ocean-kayak...it's a beauty. Also, we wait in anticipation for our scuba lessons to begin this July. Our countdown is on for the long awaited journey to the Far East; just 42 days stand in between our journey cross county, with a destination in Okinawa, Japan. Unfortunately, the fluctuating dates for graduation, port and arrival have changed some important plans we had hope to include this summer, such as a beautiful wedding for Robert & Liz in Peru and the birth of my best friend Alexandria's first wee little cutie. Yet, we are keeping our chins high and enjoying the adventure as it rolls our way.

A Spoon Full of Sugar...

2008-05-08T15:02:00.004-05:00

... makes the Mucinex go down. Yes, this green skinned monster has been hanging around the Vincent household this past week. And, while the sniffles are not a desired trait for the majority of us, it has allowed for some relaxing 'down-time' around our pad. Thus, for anyone slowing down and taking some time to relax & smell the roses, check out my recommendations for a delightful & fulfilling time.

1. Juno, a movie about a young girl finding out what being self-less and being in love are all about. The soundtrack is incredible... although quite unusual.
2. Wheel of Fortune: in its 25th year Vanna's dresses are still shimmering and Pat still hasn't landed on the bankrupt wedge while spinning the wheel.
3. Fla-Vor-Ice: this classic childhood pop-sickle will refresh your inner kid; available in original & tropical fruit flavors they haven't changed a thing... to include their promo picture of kids from the early 80's.

Wishing you health & love wealth!

Our Apartment

2008-03-13T16:36:00.004-05:00

Come on in... and Sit right down... welcome to our Mexico Beach condo.

Okay, so perhaps this message is well over 7 months late, but what the hay-I might as well show off our place here in Florida as we will be tenants for another 5 months time!

Our quaint abode is our humble retreat from the chaos of this unfortunately backwards area- the Florida Panhandle. I could go on to vent about the lack of community infrastructure, properly built roadways, traffic mitigation techniques and community education and jobs, but I will refrain. Instead I will tell you that our small, but loving unit is home to Vinnie, me and our beloved "Gnorm the Gnome", pictured in slide show.

We spend the majority of our time in our living room watching old episodes of "The Office" or "Family Guy"- both highly entertaining and socially enlightening comedies aired on cable. And, between our TV trays and our 3 beloved table trays we have yet to spill anything on the couch we can't clean up with a little water and scotch guard. However, we are getting more creative by the day. In fact, just yesterday on an outing to the local Panama City Mall we found a new cookbook, "Top Secret Restaurant Recipes". Vinnie is quite the chef- skilled at making the best Gluten Free Pizza around!

Well, we hope that some of you will be able to experience both our Mexico Beach Condo Livin' and Vinnie's Pizza's before we leave Florida! "When you're here, you're family!"

The joys of a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year...

2008-01-07T14:33:00.000-06:00

Vinnie and I have been enjoying extra vacation days this holiday season as the restitution to the f-15c aircraft woes. Due to maintenance issues with the aging plane they have grounded the fleet for a few weeks now. While Vinnie misses flying, as I can tell by the tiny tears I see in his eyes as we drive by the operational f-22 Raptors still flying, we have benefited significantly from this—so far—harmless inspection.

Benefits to date:

Long Christmas Vacation back in our home state!!!
About one (1) additional month on beautiful Florida beaches.
Extended vacation to recover from celebrations for New Years Eve.
And, the chance for Vinnie to pursue a professional career as a Softball/ Ultimate Frisbee/ Paintball champion.

The holiday was a joyous occasion… what a wonderful American Christmas… our last one in America for the next 3+ years. With 4 days spent in the pipe lines cross roads of the world, the one and only, Cushing, OK, and the last 4 spent in OKC we were able to see almost all our immediate family and some very close friends. Our picture attests to one of two Christmas dinner delights—seafood Vinnie style.

At present we are driving back to Florida, accompanied by brother Jay and S.I.L. Lisa who will be staying with us for about a week to experience the greatness of Mexico Beach! Their love of the wilderness is bound to be an experience as our local area is infested with black bears, panthers, wild boar and of course alligators. It feels as if we are in a live episode of Lost as times; the next thing you know we will be seeing polar bears on our back porch!

Speaking of Lost… is anyone else board out of their minds because of the writers strike? My DVR isn’t working as hard for its money these days as it used to, but then again, I think I am being less lazy. Perhaps the Writer’s Guild is contributing to societies issues with gluttony while solving their personal struggles. The next thing you know the Writer’s Guild will be receiving the Nobel Peace Prize—I mean, if Al Gore can get it anyone can right? I know, I know, Global warming is a serious issue… and Al’s contribution of the Internet was pretty incredible. It has made this blogging experience possible. Cheers to Al. And Cheers to each of you! May you experience the joys of a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Honeymooners

2007-10-22T08:35:00.000-05:00

Marriage... the best thing ever to happen in my life!

While we didn't get to 'go on a honeymoon' Vinnie did a wonderful job of bringing the honeymoon to us. With an ocean view, a new apartment to decorate, two who love to cook, and all the seafood you could want, our extended honeymoon is better than a Caribbean cruise. All we need is to start making the little towel animals and leaving them on the beds.

Unfortunately for others, this extended honeymoon also means we have been MIA for a little over 7 weeks now. Leave us a message and we'll get back with you, shortly. If you aren't married... you will understand when you get married. There is a wonderful 'something' which occurs once you get to spend countless hours with your best friend.

So, here is a picture of us cutting the cake at the reception. We enjoyed cutting the cake samurai style and frankly, we were impressed we actually hit the cake after holding that sword above our heads and aiming! Our bet is that the top of the cake has since been 'accidentally' eating by someone in my family. They are chocolate cake lovers-- but Vinnie and I probably wouldn't let the top of the cake last the whole year anyway-- we also fall into the chocolate cake lover category.

So since the wedding... we woke up the following Sunday morning to a beautiful sun filled day, a white car eloquently decorated in oreo's and cheese wiz, and a drive ahead of us that lasted 2 days. Upon arrival in Mexico Beach, our new home, Vinnie had to report to the squadron and finish up some studying. "Welcome to the Air Force" is right. But, other than that occasion the long training days actually aren't all that bad and heck... the beach is right down the street!

Well, I'll leave some more to write about for the next segment of this blog... adventures to our next base! Take Care and be well!

The Countdown is On

2007-07-12T23:27:00.000-05:00

With the countdown in full swing I am beginning to feel the full force and gravity of these next few weeks.

2 & 1/2 weeks: Receive my Masters of Business Administration degree
3 weeks: Rent apartment with Vinnie and move into (hopefully) a beach front apartment.
4 weeks: Return to Oklahoma for the remainder of August... become busy with showers, seeing old friends, days at the coffee shop talking with other avid consumers of star bucks masterpieces, and the like.
Approximately 7 weeks: get married!!!

For all that know me you can attest, I never saw this coming. But, how incredible! I am excited about the journey and I hope that this blog will act as a window into that trek for the next year or two.

I have enclosed a picture of my newest family members. No, not Vinnie, yet. Instead, mans true best friends, Ollie and Millie.

Cheers!