Mark's First Report

Shalom:
I spoke to Mark last night; he says he is feeling better and thanks everyone for their prayers. He is chin deep in paperwork right now. The unit has been without a Civil Affairs Officer for several months and he was a welcome sight.
It is going to be a few weeks before he get online, partly because of work, partly because securing hotspots to get internet useage.
Mark says the first few nights took some getting use to. The Afghan sky is not just black, but inkly black. The night so thick you can cut it with a knife.

One is truly lost without one's flashlight out here. And it takes some getting use to.

But Mark also reports that once your eyes adjust, you still need that flashlight. But the sky is also alive with stars, so close to the earth that you feel you reach up and stick one in your pocket. Surrounded by mountains, it is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Reminding him of the mountains around Colorado.

He says it is truly amazing; after a full day's work, to sit back and look up into the night sight and enjoy G-d's creation.

How often I have places such as Afganistan and Iraq as G-d forsaken.

Are they really?????

My New Specks

Shalom:
I am really having a blast reconnecting with my buds here in BlogLand. The welcome has been wonderful and so nice to be truly missed.
Tuesday afternoon I recieved a call telling me my new glasses were ready. So excited that there were ready several days earlier than expected, I got out of my sickbed, showered and dressed, made the 15 minute trek to get my new specks.
Big mistaken. It took that long to get my breath back from wheezing.
Ghent eye care is our neigborhood eye store and I like the fact that if something happens to my specks, I can walk back to the store. And the people are very nice and a pleasure to work with.

So, what do you think of my new look?

Makes me look rather smart, don't you think. And their purple!

So What Have We Learned Today?

Promgragtes, tea and honey...

Lailia Tov:

It is often said (my mum is good at saying this) that there are lessons to be learned from all that we go through.

I do believe that is true. Sometimes, I would rather take a pass on the class.

Today I went to the doctor's just to make sure my lungs are clear. Having asthma, the flu can be a rather serious thing, Swine or Bird. The virus's attack on the Respiratory System is rather nasty and worse if your very young, elderly or have a respiratory disease as I do. After years of dealing with this, I know when to sweat it out and when to head for the doctor. Becoming winded after a 15 minute walk, was enough to say that the virus was beginning to affect the the lungs. My doctor said the lungs were still clear, but she heard alittle wheezing and put me on a streiod treatment. This will help to clear up the phelem in my lungs as well as free the air passages. Over all I am feeling better and frankly had less problems with my asthma today than yesterday

Yes, it is the second time with the flu for me this year. Not uncommen with asthma. Some years with the flu shot, no problems, sometimes, I still get sick. Last year it was rather nasty, this year, I am doing ok. It's just the pits when your alone.

And that's my problem. Weathering through this without sounding like I am whining.

And I can't stand whiners so I am really struggling here. Betty is right: it is the pity when your sick and alone.

But others don't see it that way. So do you just suck it up and move out smartly. Or do you blog about your feelings?

I chose to blog. Because every once in a while I do recieve an e-mail from spouse, thanking me for voices the very emotions they are feeling and when they read my blog, they know they is someone else who understands what they are feeling.

After the visit to the doctor's, I picked up more chicken for soup. While shopping I found white carrots. Now call me strange, but I have never seen or heard of white carrots before.

I am curious as to how they will taste in my soup.

I have fallen in love with Simply Orange Juice. A friend told me yesterday the make a great rasberry-lemonaide. So I brought a bottle and she was right. It is very good. The lemon-aide is a great source of vitmin c anf the rasberry is part of the dark berries that are good for you.

I also enjoy SoBe Liz Blizz , Pina Cola which contains Vitimins A and C and Zinc. Mark started using ZCan when I had the flu last year, (you add it to a liquid). It does change the taste of what your drinking, but it does help.

So what have we learned?

The flu both Swine and Bird are air borne viruses. You can lessen the spread by washing your hands, throwing away used tissues and keeping up your liquid intake. Unless you live on another planet, you are going to be in contact with someone who has had or has the flu. Getting the flu shot lessens your getting it, but like any medication or treatment, there are risk in both taking and passsing it up. I don't believe in giving medical advise, I leave that to wiser folk. I do suggest that if you do get sick, rest, lots of liquids, soft foods like non dairy base soups are in order. And if you feel worse, call your doctor.

And if you hear of a friend who is sick? Make some soup, grab a bottle of OJ, put on a mask and drop off the goodies.

Your smiling face to help their healing progress.

The Flu in Afghanistan

Boka Tov:
One of the sweetest things about being married to your soul-mate is it doesn't matter if your half a world away from each other, you both get sick at the same time.
Yes, Mark has the flu.
I hope to him last night, both of us coughing, blowing our noses and popping cough drops. The air of Afgansitan doesn't help. He was on his way to see the company doctor after his call to me.
Lots of orange juice, but sadly, no Laini chicken soup.
So we are praying that he gets over this bug quickly and returns to the work he loves. Of course, unless he is really sick, Mark still works in the office. The unit has been without a Civil Affiars officer for several months and there is lots of work to be done.
And that is right up Mark's alley.
It is one of the things I love about Mark. He doesn't complain about the work left for him to do, or even having to clean up after someone else. It is his job and he loves it. He likens it to dedangling yarn for me and forming it into a ball. He has the patients to work out the knots and knows when to just cut.
I am looking forward to hearing his reports about the people. Knowing Mark, there will be tons of pictures of the children.
Once he get over the flu that is.
I wonder if I should send the Cook my recipe for chicken soup?

The Flu

Shalom y'all :)
I spoke to my doctor and what I have is the flu.
Doctors today just allow the bug to run its course, unless you have other underline aliments, or you get sicker.
So this weekend, I drank lots of ornage juice, when I felt alittle better went to the store and picked up the other things I would need for the next few days and slept the next few days away. That is really all one can do with the flu; drinks lots of liquids, take meds and sleep.
Right now I am feeling much better: I'd had no temp since Sunday and the sneezing, blowing noses and coughing is lessing. I am still taking things slow, but I did clean my kitchen.
I'd haven't heard from Mark the past few days.
That is to be expected, but it still doens't make it any easier.
He is excited that half his time will be working with the locals, something he is good at; seeing what the needs are and if there is a way to meet them. This is part of "winning the heart of the people."
Once I am over this bug, I will start baking the cookies and working on CarePackages.
But tonight, I will start on my first letter to him.
I also need to picture a few pictures for him. There is one he took of me asleep,
He says I look so beautiful when I am sleep.
I told him that's beacuse my mouth isn't running.
Always the gentleman, Mark said that's not true.
One of the many reasons I love him.

Cold

Thrusday was a very wet, cold day.
The only sunshine that could be found was at Strabucks, when I took Dad Reel for his Birthday coffee.
This is usually Mark's treat, but since he is deployed, I told him I would make sure Dad got his coffee. I also decided to inviite his mum and sister as well.
We had a wonderful time, talkin and sharing and of course laughing over Starbucks.
And dispite the fact I was dressed nice and warm, I still caught a chill and that's why I hae felt so poorly the last few days.
This morning I awoke with a sore throat, sneezing and a runny nose. Chills all day and now a slight temp.
But the time I got to spend with my family, it was worth it.

Eletric Arts

Laila Tov:
I am happy to report that while things have not gotten any better with PayPal, things are with Eletric Arts.
I found the company's number and was able to reach Tech Support without trouble. The gentleman I worked with was very nice and worked hard to correct the problem. Sadly, it remains a puzzle. But the good news, he did bump it up to Tech Level 3 to see what they could do and I should get some type of answer soon.
It was a pleasure working with EA and they are an example of good customer service.
I am still feeling yucky. Having no idea what this is. So, if I don't feel better over the weekend, I shall call my doctor. I do have some blood test I need to take care of next week.
Headache is gone and maybe I shall even be able to enjoy the beef stew I am making for Shabbat Supper.
Have a wonderful evening.

Round Two

Boka Tov:
I decided to call my credit union to see if there was a problem on their end.
No.
So, with a calmer, clear head, I decided to give PayPal another chance. After all, we all have bad days once in a while.
Remind me PayPal is not good for my blood pressure.
Since I did have a credit card replaced, I thought check that number against the account. That did the trick. I was able to reset my password and then go on to update the account. Then I was informed to be able to QUICKLY use PayPal, go to my credit union online and that would allow me to start using PayPal.
It didn't.
After two more phone calls, I still have to wait two or three days (after a charge of 1.95 was already returned from my account) to use PayPal.
Since this is a system many use for online buying, it couldn't just be me having this problem.
It isn't.
From my credit and others I have heard horror stories about this company.
But like ATT&T and the u.s government, Americans have gotten use to shoppy workers, lousy service and second rate products.
And because few complain, those of us who do raise Cain, are often offered by these companies chill pills, knowing our redrawing our busniess will do nothing to their bottom line.
But I do have one ray of hope: an eatery here in Norfolk that Mark and I reported has been shutdown.
By the health department.
I think the sun is about to come out.

Love From Afghanistan

The past few evenings, just before i go to bed, Mark calls.
We decided that this is a good time for him to ring me.
He calls just before he goes to PT and his workday. My day is ending and his is the las voice I hear before I say my prayers.
I am usually curled up in my bed, reading my bible or the latest saga in Narina ( right now the Underland in The Silver Chair). A cup of tea or a glass of juice.
I sleep better when I have spoken to him, no nightmares, just sweet dreams.
It is a 30 minute call, but there have been a few times, it has lasted longer. And that I am grateful for.
It has been a very rainy day, the evening is wet as well. A nice bowl of soup is in order before Mark calls.
Nite all :)

PayPal, Electric Arts and a Huge Headache

Lailia Tov:
The walk Sunday was wonderful. I didn't get everything done, but I did make it to Starbucks and it was still a good day.
Monday was the same. Very nice.
This day I went to pcik out new glass frames. I realize quickly I didn't have my shopping buddy, so I would have to make this choice without Mark's input.
Oh I know, people pick out their own frames without assistance all the time, but it is nice to have someone with you.
The lady I worked with was very nice and helpful. She laughed as she noticed I headed for the more artsy, crafty frames. Sadly, these are not choices we have at the NEX (Naval ExChange). I chose a pair that is so different from anything I have wore before. Not round (no one ever told me that with my moon face, I should go with rectangular frames) and while the colour looks royal purple, they are really black. I was told I was hiding behind these large frames; the smaller ones open up my face.
They shall be ready in two weeks.
My headache is alone gone.
There are two games I confess I loves: Sims and facekbook's farm town.
I love playing Sims 3, watching couples fall in love, marry and raise their families. And that is all I do. If you are familiar with Sims, there is some strange stuff that you can get into (like the occult) and thankfully, there is none on Sims 3. Farm town is, well, farming.
Anyway, to buy an object now and again, one has to go on the Sims Store Site. In the past, this wasn't an problem.
But in the past two months, it has been a nightmare.
This afternoon I wanted to but Sim points, this is how you buy things at the store. As it happen last month, both my credit cards were rejected. Not because the numbers were bad, not because I wrote in caps, just because there is an ongoing problem. I learned a few months ago, I wasn't the only Sim player having the same problem.
So, a few months ago I signed up for PayPal. I was told I had anacoount. So I found the password and guess what: it didn't work. After a 45 minute phone call, the account was canceled and I had to setup an new one. So today, I tired PayPal.
And you guessed it; the password didn't word.
So I tried to have it reset.
My credit card was invalid.
So was my phone number.
After speaking to three of the village dummies, it was suggested I open another account, using another e-mail address. This would make the third account in a few months.
Headache coming back. I have checked and double check. The cards are good. I have used the cards on other sites.
No problem.
But of course the problem doesn't lie with PayPal or Electric Arts. It is we, the ones who spend our money on these sites and suffer the abuse that go along with it that are to blame.
Funny, whenever a client of mine is displeased with my artwork, I bend over backwards to fix the problem.
Maybe that is why people still buy my needle-work after all these years and I'd never had a complain.
Anyway, I know this blog entry will not bother PayPal or EA in the least.
But I feel better for sharing.
Ah...I smell coffee...

Early Morning

Boka Tov:

To those who have asked to send something to Mark, once I get a land address I shall let you know. He is asking for Snail Mail.

The plan today is to clean the kitchen, maybe the Livingroom (they are a mess) and then go shopping. I need to pick out new eye glass frames and Mark would like a Shabbat traveling set. It come with two small tea candleholders so that Mark can keep Shabbat withour worrying about the candlestick holders.

The last ones he had, Mark forgot and left them in the Chapel in Iraq. We decided that it was a gift.

While in New Jersey, we attended a Messianic Congregation. They not only prayed for us, but gave us several books and CDs as gifts as well as taking us into their hearts. One of the gifts included a small kiddish cup, made of olive wood, small enough for Mark to pack with his things.

I am of course planning a trip to Starbucks and who knows, maybe even walk abit, now that the hips are doing much better.

It is Indian Summer here, a very nice time to get out and get some fresh air.

See ya later :)

Key Found

Lailia Tov:

Well, Mark called @ 9:38 last night. Which was 6:00am where he is. I can actually set my new cell-phone to the time where he is stationed.

His voice was alittle husky last night; it's the dust in the air. Plus he is surrounded by mountains. And I can't get into more than that, lest something in my describetion get away his location.

He is serving the the company, lest we run into the same problems we did with AT&T the last time.

The unit is happy to have him back; he is badly needed.

And he told me where the key was; one of the end pockets, wrapped in one of his kippahs.

Once we spoke, I was able to sleep.

It's just that knowing he is ok.

So the next few days he is training for his new duties. And is as safe as one can be on a Army Camp in Afganistan.

I just had a bowl of Knox Kosher Chicken and Pasta soup. Not bad for a package soup. In fact, it was pretty good. It is a bit chilly here and the warm soup just hit the spot.

Tomorrow I plan to treat myself to Starbucks. Walk around a bit. Get some fresh air.

But tonight, another bowel of soup and a good book.

Nite all.

Todah :)

Todah: tha's hebrew for thank you.

Thank you to all who permitt me to blow off stream. To even yell and shout "this stinks!" Thank you for allowing me to be human.

Big hugs all around.

I haven't heard from Mark yet and frankly that is human. He has five months to catch up with his unit, learn his surroundings and as Team Leader get to know his folks and they him.

One of the funniest stories to come out is the first leg of his trip, to Turkey.

It seems that he was mistaken for a rabbi. This has often handle to us as a couple. I even thought he was a rabbi when I frist met him.

so he gets on the plane and everyone insist that he is a rabbi.

He was given a very good kosher meal and made a friend.

That's my Mark :)

Yesterday, I came home from PT (feeling sick from something I ate) and found his duffier bag sitting in front of the door. He had told me he was mailing it home. I had left a sweater in New Jersey and wanted to get it out. It is my favorite.

I found a lock on the bag.

Having no key to open it with.

I can only hope Mark mailed the key.

That's my Mark :)

The First Shabbat

Shabbat is in a few hours.

It is the first Shabbat Mark shall spend in Afghanistan. Not sure if he will have the evening off to do so.

Afghanistan is so different. Not sure if there is such a time as "time off." Not sure if Mark take time to himself like he did in Iraq.

I just know right now I am struggling with depression, even with the joy of Shabbat.

As I often tell other military spouses, these feelings are normal and even help you work through the storm in your being. It draws you closer to G-d and even your beloved because they are feeling the same emotions. Of course, the differenc is their foruc is upon the misson until they go to sleep. We who are left home must find our own mission, our own voice to get through this time.

It is normal to feel depress because you are parted from your loved one. Go ahead and cry. I tell myself.

The problem, however, comes from well meanings friends who send me scriptures, mild corrections about me not having faith or even the ever faithful; "well, you knew what you were getting into when you married Mark."

With all due respect, go suck an egg!

When your husband or wife goes into a warzone for a year, you are given 30 minutes (if the phone works) phone time, pray that the internet works so you can IM, write e-mail or even G-d willing manage to see each other through a Web-Cam, then we can talk.

Until then, just thank G-d for men and women who are willing home and heart to defend you and your family, and their families who are willing to let them go, and treat me to Starbucks every once and a while.

I like my Mocha-Latte very hot.

No GreyHound; Part Two

Boka Tov:
That coffee took longer than I thought.
Anyway, first, hugs to Beth and Betty :)
And of course Liz, one of my facebook buddies.
So, the first leg of the trip wasn't too bad. As I said, I had to pick up Baby Wipes and Hand Sanitzer. Which, if you think about it, is a good idea. I alreay had my Sports drink.
At the second stop, we had about a 20 minute wait, this way folks could get dinner. I went ahead and called Mark for a few minutes.
After I rang off, an older lady said they had great food in the store. I smelled the chicken and having forgotten my lunch, thought chicken wasn't a bad idea. Then the same lady mention how hungry she was. She had been beaten and robbed and on her way back home. So I brought a bucket of chicken to share with her. This way she would have a few more meals. She was trying to get to Dover and then hopefully would be able to get home from there. (if her story wasn't true, then she has to face G-d about it, not I) As I began to eat, I noticed an older Arab gentleman looking at me. So I offered him a piece of chicken. At first he was surprised by the offer, but gave me a slight smile and accepted the chicken.
It is always nice to share your meal with others.
When we reached Willington, Del. I had to get off to catch the bus to Philly.
This is when things changed.
Our bus was due in @ 2:55 pm. It didn't get in until 3:15pm.
Our luggage was taken off the first bus and thrown, yes I said thrown onto the second. For the second busdriver loudly announced he was late and anyone in the Loo would get left behind.
Nice.
So we hurried onto the bus less we found ourselves walking.
I frankly am surprised the bus wasn't stopped for speeding. We were hanging on for dear life.
Downtown Philly is a HappySnapper's dream; Alive with Asian culture blocks long and I couldn't get any pictures because I had a speed demon behind the wheel of the bus.
We made it to Philly in one piece and then learned our connecting bus had just pulled off.
Talk about a grown woman crying....good thing I had Moshe.
I called Mark and told him what was happening. It turns out our bus haven't left and the 5pm was always on time.
So Moshe and I stood first in line, for 45 minutes, waiting for the bus. We didn't dare move.
At 4:45pm, the bus pulled in and Moshe and I were the first to board.
I called Mark and left a message to let him know I was on the bus and we would be leaving soon.
I then took off my sweatshirt and it is here we believe I lost my cell-phone.
The bus arrived at MT Laurel on time.
No Mark.
I got off to call him and this is when I realize I lost my phone.
I asked the driver if I could come back on to look for my phone. He said no, but would look for me. He didn't see it. It is a Razor, which means it is now gone.
We had it turned off a few days later.
Mark's trip to the station took longer than he thought it would and upon reaching the parkinglot, a gentleman approached him about if he ever needed his taxes done...
I didn't take that well. I just had the trip from hell and some dude wants to dicuss a militarty tax break.
Wisely, Mark took me to the hotel so I could freshen up and then head out for supper.
One look into those beautiful blue-green eyes and being held in those stronge arms, I forgot all about GreyHound.
Until Sunday evening.


Moshe chilling after a long day.

No GreyHound

Boka Tov:
First, thanks Marty: it is good to be back :)
The latest in the Reel Adventure is my trip last week to see Mark before he flied out for Afghanistan.
Mark thought (rightly so) I would enjoy a train trip to New Jersey. The country side this time of the year is so beautiful and as a Happy Snapper I could get some great pictures.
But the AmTrack was in the No Man's section of NewPort News and no one knew (not even Mapquest) knew where to find this place. It was suggested that I take GreyHound. Which would be quicker than the train and Dad Reel could drive me to the station. And of course Moshe decided at the last minute to come along for the ride.

It was a beautiful Thruday morning. The air was crisp, but not chilly. Because Mark had paid for the ticket online, we had to arrive early to settle the ticket and checkin my luggage. I remembered there was a Cafe inside, but were told at the Ticket counter the Cafe was closed at the beginning of the year. The closest place one could go for coffee was at MacDonald's a mile away. And while Dad would have gladly gone to get me a cup, I really preferred his company. It has been over ten years since I have traveled alone and was alittle nervious.
In the meantime, we both went to use the Loo.
First, I had to do a hunt and search for toliet tissue for about five minutes. Not good when you really have to go. Then the hand dryer didn't work, so one had to use TP to dry the hands.
I was reminded of my former missionary days, making a mental note to pick up babyWipes at the first Bus Stop.
We chatted until 8:15 am when the bus arrived. Looks like it would leave on time.
Dad gave me a kiss and hug, blessing and send me off for NJ and my awaiting soldier.
And I shall never Go GreyHound again.
The first leg of the trip was fine. I had brought a book to read, a pillow for my head, Gatorade to keep my joins and muscles happy.
Our first stop, I picked up water and a small package of babyWipes along with trailmix. Good thing.
Back on the bus, I went to use the Loo. Toliet Tissue yes. Handitizer...no.
Did I mention I shall never do GreyHound again.
Hold that thought...time to make the coffee.

Hello My Friends

Shalom:

Yes, I am back :)

We have so missed each of you. And I am so sorry it has taken me so long to get back to the Blog.

First, I hope everyone had a wonderful summer.

Mark and I?

Well...it has been an adventure.

So to make very long story short.

As you know, Mark was being deployed to Afghanistan in June.

Then we had a hiccup.

Mark had to have a CAT Scan to just make sure he was clear to move out. The were found custers of small growths on his spleen and liver. Too many to figure out what they were. After a series of back and forth it was deterimed Mark wasn't fit for duty and July found Mark waving his unit goodbye.

The doctor at Walter Reed felt if Mark could get another CAT Scan in three months, they could see if there was anything to these grows. Now Mark had been home on leave for a few days the first week of July and he looked fine. He felt fine.

It was decided not to send him home, but give him something to do while he waited for the Scan.

Speed up three months.

Sep. 17th. The growths hadn't gotten any bigger and many of them went away. So since there was nothing to these growths and all of his test came back great, Mark was fit for duty.

So last night, around 8pm, Mark headed off for East Aftghanistan. Because of security, I cannot tell you more than that.

I am hoping to hear from him soon.

Me? Well, I am coming to the last month of PT. The Therpist is very please, even proud of not only how well I am doing, but how far I have come. I even survived a bustrip to New Jersey. And yes, I shall share about that later.

Other than the stop-starts of this deployment, life has been good. I am still married to the world's greatest husband, we are still very much in love and as sicking as ever. Even my hebrew is getting better.

We are in the middle of Sukkah. It is very different this year.

Usually, Mark and I go to the Shul's Sukkah and enjoy breakfast, lunch or supper, including wine and Challah.

But this, we spend the first few days in New Jersey, enjoying a meal of Sesame Chicken, Stuffed cabbage and kosher Sushi from Yussi's Kosher Deli. Shabbat was in our hotel room, attending a Sukkath Feast the new day.

But atleast we were together those last few days. Memories that will get me through these next several months.

I picked up some chicken salad and cous-cous salad for supper to go with my wine. And pray that Mark calls.

Tomorrow. A new entry.

Ah it is good to be back :)

Peter Pan: The True Story

Lailia Tov (Good Evening)
I never liked Peter Pan.
In fact, I hated the book. Couldn't stand the Play, movie or even the Peanutbutter.
Peter Pan was more than a boy who didn't want to grow up. He was a man who refused to grow up.
Remaining a child means one doesn't have to make decsions for ones life. The downside; you might not like the decsions they make. All you wish to do is play and have fun, surround yourself with children, for they know how to have a good time. Having a few Wendy's and Tinkle Bells about don't hurt either.
But Wendy herself begins to realize she wants a man and family of her own and not raise someone's child. She does grow up and marry. Peter drops by to play with the children.
Wendy does indeed grows older, has grandchildren and G-d willing, even see her great- grandchildren.
Peter is still hanging tough in NeverLand. Where no one tells him want to do, where to go.
Peter Pan is forever tearing his shadow and looking for a Mama figure to set things right.
That's just our modern day Peter Pan, Michael Jackson.
In the real world. Peter Pan died a week ago,
He managed to knock all other news off the air. That is how important the Man-Child is. It doesn't matter that there are marines and soldiers in two battle zones, dying. His last dance video must air. It doesn't matter a woman just found out her husband is coming home in a coffin and their hometown will not be footing the funreal bill. That a son or daughter will be mourn by the nation, let alone the world.
The Man-Child who didn't know it wasn't ok to share your bed with little boys. To try and buy the bones of the Elephant Man. To have the money to buy your own personal Playground, but not seek couseling to deal with the anger and lonliness eating at your soul.
To die at the feet of your child.
And yet to have others still swept away with his charm, explaining his behavious away: "he was sad," "abused' and "oh I hope he is in heaven!" and of course, he was good to the children. I am going to be sick.
No wonder I hate that story.

A Death in The Family

Shalom:

He has been a good a faithful friend.

Loyal to a fault. Never complaining.

But as with all things, he has in the past few months showed signs of slowing down.

I didn't wish to face it at first, going more love and attention and maybe he would perk up.

Sadly, no.

Now, tomorrow, I have to pull the plug

Sigh......

Ahhhh It is So Good to Be Home :)

Shalom:
It is so good to be back home.
And thanks Beth, Betty and Marty for the warm welcome :)
Lots has been happening in our world as of yet. Some good. Some not so good.
One of the good things for me is how much I value my little corner of the world here in BlogLand and my friends.
Yes, I have had a few become angry over something I and/Mark have written and decided not to follow us anylonger. But for the most part, we have agreed to disagree and high-five on those things we do.
Unlike facebook, you say the wrong thing and-poof! Your de-friended.
For the most part it doesn't bother me for it shows the level of immaturely on that person's part.
But family?
Not cool.
Here in Blogland, we can share, debate, even fuss, without ever resorting to such childish behaviour. We work it out and move on.
Children are great; but for meaningful converastion without hearing; "your mean!" and stomping off in a huff, there is nothing like adult buddies.
Ah.....home.
Until next we meet....