The White Dove

Although it probably has little significance to anyone other than my mother and me, previously, I wrote about the white dove, in an earlier blog entry Sunday afternoon and the white dove, this is the continuance of that tale.

During the course of my mother's treatment, there came a time when she had to be admitted to the hospital overnight, a routine stay, for tests and such, to determine the efficacy of the treatment she had received thus far.  Though it was not something she or I relished, her stay in the hospital afforded me the opportunity for a 'night off' and some time to stop by the office to 'catch up' on somethings there.

Not wanting to leave my mother along, but knowing I needed to, at the same time I wanted to give her some reassurance that though I was not there physically, I was still with her.  As she got checked in and settled into the room, I excused myself to 'tour' the hospital, possibly seeing something I never had before in all my visits there.  

As she got settled in for the night, I wondered the halls of the hospital, seeing what I might see.  While on my venture through the halls, I came upon the gift shop and decided to wander in and see what trinkets I might find.  Something I had 'always' done was deliver gifts or trinkets to my mother and grandmother, for no reason - often times merely flowers, 'out of the blue' as a sign to let them know I cared for and appreciated them.  Usually in the way of flowers and cards, my mother and I did have one tradition.  Every year for her birthday, I would show up to her house, not with a cake but a cupcake, her preference.  That has begun when one year, I stopped by the bakery to get a cake and there none available that were suitable, so I opted instead for cupcakes.  The beginning of what became a tradition.  I deviate though, allow me to return to the main purpose of this blog entry.

Venturing into the gift shop, my eyes were met a huge 'beanie baby' display.  'Beanie babies' being a 'rage' at the time, I wondered to the display to take a closer look.  While browsing through the selection, I happened upon a 'beanie baby' in the image of a white dove.  Symbolizing to me more than what most people would associate with it, it also represent  peace, healing, and release from her current situation.  It seemed the 'perfect' gift to me for the occasion.  Upon returning to my mother's room and presenting the gift, she expressed her gratification and let me know it would 'always' be on the bedside table beside her. 

 Promptly, she placed it on the bedside stand taking care to ensure it faced the 'right way' so she could see it and it could 'see' her.  When she packed to go home from the hospital, the dove was not placed in her bag, but instead carried by her.  When she got home, she made a 'bee line' to the bedroom to place the dove on her bedside stand to ensure the dove as near and visible to her, and anyone else coming into the room.

Hey that's not me

Hey that's not me!

With a common name like mine, I am constantly being mistaken for someone else.  Although a nuisance it is also laughable.  Often times costly though!  It is funny to go to the doctor and learn about all the diseases the other guy had before they learn they have the wrong chart!  Or to go the pharmacy and be mistaken,  man they are not prescribing me the right medication sometimes, I want some of what he is getting!

There is the time I was almost arrested for being a 'cop killer,' fortunately I was the 'wrong' color!  Everything else fit closely enough, we even had the same birthday!   Then when I was getting my license renewed down in Texas, and just as I walking out the door, I heard someone call, "Mr. Johnson, I need to see you."  It was a state trooper and he wanted to take me to the back.  Oh brother what did I forget?  The trooper was very polite and kind as I stood against the wall for height measurement, telling me all the time it was what he thought was a mistaken identity.  After getting measured for height, I was invited to sit in the metal chair (with handcuffs on it!) while they checked a couple more things! 

Fortunately, I had the wrong color hair, the wrong height and way too many tattoos from the guy being sought for outstanding warrants!  The trooper apologized and let me go on my way!  What a heart stopper!

Collection companies have 'tracked' me down in a bid to collect money!  When finally I did talk to them, we both learned it was the wrong guy they spent all the time and money on to track down.  I had never lived or went to school in Wisconsin!

Of course all the instances can't end in happy endings!  The last time was also the most dramatic one!

Last year, I found a contract position that I was most interested in and seemed a perfect fit!  Apparently the company did as well since I ended up there for their application process  Everything was looking good and as I sat through a training class for indoctrination 'they' came to get me. Taking me out of the class, they proceeded to tell me, I had failed the background (criminal) investigation.  Thinking to myself, "No Way."  This was the part of the process I dreaded the least.

Of course I wanted to speak someone and find out what the hell was up.  The Personnel Manager was nice and told me, I would be receiving a letter but not much more.  So I returned home and awaited the letter which came a couple of days later.  I had to laugh as I read the letter and the accompanying report.  As I read the report, I had to think a 'thank you' to the Mr. Johnson's that had been screwing up my life for years!  Still I wasn't mad at them, they just happened to have the same name and other stats.  One had the same birthday and the other had an SSN (Social Security Number) that was one digit off from mine.

Oh I was pissed off though, more so at the company and whoever 'reviewed' the report.  How the hell could they miss out that the persons named on the report looked nothing like me!  One was black and the other blond haired and blue eyed!  I was livid!  How the hell could the company miss such important details, especially after they came courting me for the position!

Of course, I went through all the red tape and procedure 'required' to remove the errant entries on my criminal background but it did nothing to help me regain the lost income, nor did it do anything to correct other errant information with other reporting agencies.  Come on why the hell do I have a 'unique' SS Number?  Isn't this supposed to 'protect' me from such bs? 

The Wager

After my vacation and returning aboard ship, I was ready to assume my new position and start life back up!  Things were busy as things 'ramped up.'  The days were filled with the creation of policies and procedure, 'choosing' the staff, setting schedules, both for the students and the 'instructors.'  As I grew 'shorter' my life became busier and filled my days and nights!  Life was good! 

The vacation and the trip home quickly became a memory as time was filled with 'new' responsibilities and demands.  Along with all the 'worries' that came with the job, I also had the added 'pressure' of my upcoming date of [permanent] departure, sure I was getting out and returning to civilian life.  All the while the reasons why I should extend continued, but I remained resolved that I was 'getting out.' 

There was although one other 'concern' that plagued me ~ between me and 'freedom' there was another 'trip' to sea looming on the horizon for me.  Right after the stay in the shipyard for 'refurb' came the period of workups.  Having been through workups before, it was not something I was looking forward to, or wanted to be a part of!  Another 'trip' to see and the workups just did not 'fit' into my plans nor desires, some way I had to get out of it.  Getting out early wasn't an option so it seemed the 'trip' was my destiny and in my future.

Not one to be quiet though, and fortunately having some friends that even though they were senior officers, I could talk to them openly and honestly.  So I made my 'concerns' known to them.  A good thing too!  So one officer, Lt. Breland, indicated that there was the potential for me to catch a temporary assignment 'shore side' and thus avoid the trip to sea and work ups. To say the least, I was 'all in' and began investigating ways to make this potential a reality!

Now Lt. Breland was one of my 'biggest fans,' but he was also the main person 'behind' the plan to get me to extend on board for a year and be the system administrator.  After all, it was his 'project' for the time and he was ultimately responsible for the success of the new system  The fact he was willing to impart this information to me was in some ways surprising, but the fact he did caused me to admire him more for it.  As much as he wanted me to stay, he also became one of the person's the most behind me to see my realize my dreams and goals of not going to sea again.

 The final decision maker though was my boss, Commander Loy, also fortunately a good friend.  Though there were specific regulations regarding fraternization between enlisted and commissioned officers, these were essentially ignored and were careful to not 'step over any lines' for it to become an issue!  After several months and working closely together, Commander Loy and myself, had become pretty close friends, even going out drinking a time or two.  So I wasn't 'too worried' about him accepting and approving the temporary assignment ashore, there was always the possibility!


The Indoctrination Division is a part of the Executive Department, which I had been assigned to for my entire time on board ship, almost four years.  As the Department Head, Commander Loy was my 'big boss.'  On the schedule while the ship was in the shipyard for rehab was the refurbishing of the Executive Department berthing and head.  So being an administrative department and the fact that many people were otherwise distracted - vacations, schooling and such, there were not a great many people to oversee and supervise the project.  Seeing my chance, I 'jumped' on it, but not without a wager!  


The wager being, I would oversee and manage the refurbishing of the spaces, in exchange for the completion of the job, as required, I would get orders for temporary orders ashore [to Houston] thus avoiding 'workups' and another trip to sea!  Even though the stringent requirements were made known to me, I still made the wager and it was accepted.  It was, to say the least the source of a joke during the course of the project and my remainder of time aboard ship.  Determined not to 'miss out' on this deal, I did all I could and all that was necessary to complete the job and collect on my wager.  Almost daily, Commander Loy, was 'by' to check with me on the status of the project.   Almost always with good natured goading of the 'impossibility' of completion of the task, and my loss of the wager.  The loss of the wage would mean my staying aboard ship for another trip to sea and the 'enjoyment' of work ups!  Determined not to lose the wager, I 'pulled' every trick and favor owed to me to ensure its 'success.'


It all did not occur without some stress and worry though!  The biggest actually coming the night before my target date to ensure the wager was done!  On this night, one task remained to be completed - having the head painted and labeled according to policy.  The whole day, I had been 'sweating' how I was going to accomplish this. In the end, I did though and all for the price of a case of beer!


Realizing things were at the 11th hour and 'failure' loomed before me, I 'stressed' in trying to come up with a solution to the problem.  A trip to the compartments with Commander Loy that day did not do much for my spirits as I was assured I was apt to 'fail' and lose the wager!  Not to be dissuaded, I thought until I came up with what I hoped would be the solution!  What I needed was someone with an air sprayer and in the Navy, that equated to a Boatswain mate!


The 'I' Division staff was comprised of essentially one person from each department on the ship, so I 'had' a boatswain mate - on 'my' staff!  Problem was, it was his night off and he was all ready home and doing no telling what at 9 o'clock at night.  If nothing else, maybe he could 'hook me up with another boatswain's mate who was on board ship that night.  So I called and 'pleaded' my case and my need for him to come in and see to this final step of the task for me.  After several moments of hearing my 'pleas,' he consented to see that it was done in the time needed, but for a price!  Well of course naturally, I did not expect if for free!  So as I fretted on the price this was going to cost me, we bartered back and forth for a few.  In the end, agreeing on a case of beer!  To say the least, I was shocked, I was figuring, and willing to pay at least $100 to see it done!  A case of beer?  Gladly, no problem, a done deal!


Though sweating it, I 'gave in' to the words and assurance of Petty Officer Reavis, that would be done as needed, and called it a night and went to my slumber.  Upon awakening the next morning though, like a kid on Christmas morning, I flew from my rack and went to see - fully expecting to find the job 'undone.'  You might imagine my surprise and joy when I entered to see the most wonderful 'Christmas gift' I have ever received!  A fresh coat of paint complete with all the required labeling on the fixtures and pipes!  Now, as then, I am not sure which gleamed brighter, the new coat of paint or my smile!


With one final walk through to inspect everything, I made my way to the shower and to start the day.  Today which was to begin with a visit at 0800 sharp to Commander Loy's office.  His words to me as I stood in his officer were 'is it done?'  With pride, and to his seeming amazement, I stated it was and that I would be awaiting his inspection.  He indicated that he would be to the space shortly and I departed his office to make my way there and stand by for his inspection.


Awaiting his arrival, I made my way through the space one more time for my final inspection, looking for anything that might be pointed out to me and cause me to 'fail' the inspection.  There was none that I could find.  


When Commander Loy entered the space, with all formality and respect 'expected' of a senior officer, I snapped to attention and stated that I was standing by for his inspection!  After acknowledging my presence and statement, I began escorting him through the space pointing out the things that needed to be there!  Though the mood was 'playful' with joking of my 'imminent' failure, I awaited him to point out any one thing which would indicate 'failure' I still maintained all the formality the situation dictated, trying to appear confident and assured all things would 'pass' his inspection.  We finished the inspection and the 'moment' never came!  The space passed!  And I won the wager!  As he turned to go, he told me of when to be in his office to pickup my orders for the temporary duty that guaranteed I would not be going to sea again, or enduring workups!


Still with a couple of days before my departure, I moved through the task of 'shutting down' 'I' Division, and collecting and packing my things in anticipation of my departure to go ashore, a little shorter, I would be completing my time as a shore sailor!

Playing Rip Van Winkle

 With the intent of 'selling' it when I got out of the Navy, I had been saving up my accrued leave (vacation) so I had a 'little' bit saved up, over 30 days.  So with my recent 'appointment' as Indoctrination Officer, and have a little time before I had to assume that position and start the task of 'receiving' new reports, I decided to take a vacation!  So I put in for 'time off,' 30 days worth of it, I thought for sure that  would be 'enough' time to head back home to Houston, and have a taste of 'life.'  


It wasn't that memorable of a vacation, after all, I was just going home, there were no memorable events or 'snapshot' moments worth capturing for a lifetime of memories.  The entire experience was though noteworthy and in some ways very memorable.  To say the least, it 'wore' me out!  


Having been gone from home, all the people and all the 'things' of home, my time was to say the least 'full.'  Being a sailor, life 'was all about' the party, which is pretty much the way it had been in the days and years before I went into the Navy.  So it was easy to 'go back' and pickup where I had left off essentially. Though I had been gone for a couple of years, it was not enough time so that anyone had really 'grown up.'  That coupled with the fact I was back, the trip home became one big party.  Then, as now, the biggest socializing habit seemed to revolve around alcohol.  And it was no different with me being home.


Every night there was somewhere to go, someone to see - reason for the party to continue!  My drink of 'choice' in that day was Jack Daniels on the rocks with a beer back, with a couple of shocks of tequila mixed in!  With a seemingly cast iron stomach and liver, a 'liquid diet' was often time the norm for me.  Along with all the socializing and partying came a lot of late hours and miles.


Although I had four weeks of leave schedule, at the end of three weeks, I was ready to call it 'done' and made plans to go 'home' back to the ship and a sedate and dry life!  After three weeks of 'living' the life I had left and missed, I was ready to be back to the live I had come to know, so I packed my bags and got on the 'silver bird' and made my way back to the ship and reported back on board, three weeks to the day since I had left and still with one week to 'burn.'  That week turned out to be a blessing!


Before I had left on leave, after accepting the I-Doc assignment, I had received 'ownership of all the divisional spaces.  Most notably at the moment, the small berthing space that would be that of the "I" Division staff.  As it was a Sunday and late when I got back on board, checking in could wait until the next morning, so I made my way to the new berthing compartment that was to be my 'room' for the next few months.  Since I had not 'chosen' my staff yet, the compartment was empty and I had it to myself!  As soon as I got into the compartment, I 'jacked' down the thermostat on the A/C as low as it could go!  Now thermostats on the ship aren't like 'normal' thermostats.  So when I turned it down to 50, 50 is what the temperature got down to - at least it was a good test of the A/C in the room!  And it passed.  


With the door locked, the A/C 'jacked' down, I made my way to the 'rack' [bed] and after undressing climbed in, closed the curtain and turned out the light!  Trust me, lights out there produce dark unlike anything most people ever experience until the lights 'go out' permanently!  The kind of dark, where you can put your hand in front of your face and not even know it is there until you touch your nose!


Being 'set' and ready for a nice slumber, it was a matter of moments and I was out!  'Dead to the world.'  And I slept.  And slept. and slept.  When I finally woke up, I made my way out of the compartment and stumbled to the head [toilet],  It was 'quiet' on in the passageway and I did not 'run' into anyone for awhile.  This seemed normal to me, after all I had came on board on Sunday night, the ship was in the yard so a lot of people would be on vacation and away for other things, life on board would not be normal at the time, there would not be a lot of people or a lot noise.


While I stood at the sink shaving or whatever it was that found me there - a shipmate walked in and I inquired as the time of day.  When he told me it was around 2100 on Sunday night, I exclaimed that it could not be!  It was about the same time on the same day of the week that I cam back on board ship - I know that I had to have been asleep longer than just a few minutes!  So I had to 'press' him and inquire as to the date.  When he told me the date all I could do was shake my head in amazement!  It had been a solid week that I had been asleep!


So after I finished my shower, I headed back to the compartment and wondered what to do.  After all it was Sunday night, most everyone was gone and there wasn't a whole lot to do, so what did I do?  I climbed back in my rack, this time setting my alarm to get up the next morning and went to sleep!

Indoctrination Divison

Without a doubt, my tour in the Navy was an experience, some good and some bad.  Though I would be remiss in admitting I 'hated' the first six weeks - boot camp - without a doubt and more than once found myself thinking of ways to get out!  Another story, for another time.

For the most part, Navy life agreed with me and I adapted to it pretty well in most regards.  Through my adaption and acceptance, I fared and advanced pretty well.  It wasn't without notice and reward by others either.  In as short as time as possible, I had advance to E5, 2nd Class Petty Officer and was in line for the 'next step' when I left.  Along with the advancement an an enlisted man, I also had recommendations for becoming a warrant officer and a commissioned officer.  To say the least, my Navy 'career' had proved to be good in many ways!

The 'biggest' and most prestigious accomplishment of my 'career' had to be my appointment as the Indoctrination Division Office [I Doc].   This position was normally assigned to a junior commissioned offer, but I had been recommended and given the position. It turned out to be not only a privilege, but in many ways and indoctrination of my own in a whole 'new' world!  I Div was the place 'everyone' reported when first reporting aboard the ship and being in the shipyards meant a bevy of new reports, some 'old hands' and some still wet behind the ears!  

There are probably a 'million' stories I can tell about experiences encountered during my time as I Doc Officer, the important thin, for now is for you to know that I was, as it sets the 'stage' for some other relevant events that occurred before I 'left' the Navy. Now my appointment to I-Div officer, came about the time that I 'seriously' considering my fate and whether to 'stay or go.'  While it was a warranted assignment and one which I was and proved to be more than capable, it was also meant to be an 'enticement' to assist me in deciding whether to 'stay or go.

Probably more than providing me with the opportunity to hone and add to my organizational skills, it gave me a door to understanding and dealing with people on a level and in a way that I never had before!  Though previously I had supervised, I had never managed others and now had the opportunity to do so! 

The first 'order of business' was to 'hire' or identify my staff which would be comprised of six 'junior' [E4 - 3rd class petty officers].  An interesting and challenging task, to say the least, to find six sailors with different backgrounds and interests, to compliment my own personality and methods.  

Before we 'all' reported to our new assignments if was first time for me to take 'vacation' [leave] and 'get ready' for it all.  Before I departed on leave, compartments [rooms] were assigned to me for use in the I-div assignment - office space, staff berthing, 'student' berthing and heads [bathrooms].  With space assigned, as well as expectations and duties assigned, it was time for me to depart for my 'vacation.' and to return and play Rip Van Winkle, before assuming the assignments of I Div Officer....

Getting Shorter

As I approached my EOS [End of Service] date during my time in the Navy, the anticipation of getting out grew within me with each passing day!  My experience and time in the Navy had been an experienced filled time and as I approached my EOS, the need for a decision to 'stay or go' was paramount and grew with each day as well.  While the prospect of getting out and returning to civilian life was exciting and inviting, it was at the same time scary in many regards.  'Navy life' has been good to me and the possibilities were endless, or so it seemed. At the same time to continue to live and succumb to the regiment of military life was daunting and in some ways unappealing!

As I counted the days and approached my 'double digits' to the end of the 'tour' the decision of what to do, reenlist or become a civilian 'tore' at me.  The decision was not made any easier with the prospect of what awaited me at home.  Even with all that, the prospects of leaving the Navy, returning to the civilian world and all the questions it presented loomed heavy on my mind.  The decision was not made any easier by the fact that my 'seniors' wished for me to stay and offered many reasons and incentives why I should reenlist.

While my mind was filled with all the prospects, made perhaps even more difficult by the fact it was 'down time' and the ship was between cruises in the shipyard.  At the time, a number of my friends, peers, shipmates had been shipped off for class on a 'new' system - a Wordstar word processing system.  While they were attending school for the new system, I was left behind to 'tend to the ship,' all the thoughts and decisions playing in my mind, and a new Wordstar system!  

It was no secret, I have the propensity and desire to learn all I can, though I am much more astute at learning 'hands on.'  Give me a manual and the 'object' and I can soak it up and most likely learn it 'inside out.'  The new Wordstar system was no different and I became intimate in my knowledge and operation of it!  Actually, when the others returned from class, my knowledge and abilities of the system surpassed their own in many ways.  

This did not go unnoticed by my seniors and soon I was putting together and holding 'advanced' training classes for those 'educated' in the operation of the system.  At the same time, there were discussions about me extending on board the ship for a year.  The purpose of my extension would be to administer the new system, which was to be networked to allow communications between all offices having the system installed.  Along with the extension, should I decide to do so, came numerous perks to entice me in reaching the decision to extend on board and administer the new systems.  

As enticing as it all was, the decision was not any easier and especially from because of the 'pressures' from those at home to 'get back' and return to the mix!  As the day loomed closer for me to make a decision, I decided to abstain and not extend on board to assure the position of system administrator.  Of course my decision was 'applauded' by many of those back home, many of those on board the ship were in disagreement with my decision to 'leave' the Navy and the 'sweet' deal that had been presented to me!

My days were not over yet, and the 'pressure' to change my mind, both about extending on board, or at least 're-upping' in the Navy continued...  With my decision made, or so I thought, I 'eased' into life as a 'short timer' counting my days to depart!

But then came the wager....

Four Roses Whiskey

After who knows how many days at sea, it was the time for port-a-call, and this time it was Rota Spain!  Now this was my first time in Rota, and given my 'track record' in Spain.  And probably because there was a Naval Base in Rota, I decided to try something different, as well as avoid any interaction with Shore Patrol. 

So with the thought of 'playing it cool' on this visit and after having 'befriended' Pat, who had a different attitude than many sailors.  His philosophy was to save money and only make one 'trip' ashore in each port, saving his money for his retirement.  This sounded good to me and made sense, so I thought I would do the same thing.  Pat's method, was to go ashore once in each port for a good meal and a glass of whiskey.  Now food and alcohol I was 'down' for, so decided to accompany Pat ashore, with my new 'method' in mind and only go for one good meal and a glass of whiskey.

After inquiring for the 'best' restaurant in town, it was decided it would be a good choice and headed ashore, all ready for a good meal and a glass of whiskey!  

Once there, it seemed obvious we had made a good choice!  After placing our order for dinner, we were asked what we wanted to drink.  Well of course the answer was Whiskey!  After naming off four or five 'popular American' brands, we were met with the response of 'No' each time.  So we asked, 'Do you have American whiskey?' And we were told, 'Yes.'  So commenced naming off two or three more possible brands.  At this point it was obvious the waiter was getting a little annoyed with us and our inquiries!

Throwing his hands in the air, he motioned to us to follow him.  We did and ended up at a 'large' table with all kinds of different liquors lined up.  Motioning to the the table and waving his had over the selection, he suggested we take our choice.  After looking over the selection, we chose the only bottle in the 'vast' selection with a label that claimed to be Kentucky Whiskey - in fact, the only bottle of whiskey on the table!  So we agreed upon this and proceeded back to the table.

All smiles, the waiter returned to bring us our glasses of American Whiskey.  Quite happy ourselves, Pat and I picked up the glasses before us and after a toast, hefted the glasses to our lips!  Almost as quickly as we had toasted and drank from the glasses, we removed them from our lips and looked at one another with the 'greatest' looks of disgust!  Without a doubt, Four Roses Whiskey was proof that all American Whiskeys are not the same!  So we sat 'sipping' our glasses of whiskey while we waited on our meals to arrive.

After delivering our meals to the table, the waiter asked if we wanted more whiskey!  Without even a moment's hesitation, we both nodded our heads and exclaimed 'No!'  While we enjoyed the meal, we sipped and 'enjoyed' our remaining whiskey!  

To say the 'night' was a total waste, would be a lie - the whiskey was a big disappointment, but at least the meal was good!  So we left to return to the ship - full, but still thirsty for American Whiskey.  

Definitely, I did save money and I did avoid any interaction with Shore Patrol, other than a nod when we passed them on the street  Maybe in the next pot............

 

Sunday Afternoon and the white dove

On many Sunday afternoons, I would go to my parents to visit.  Almost always was sat at the dining room table socializing - swapping stories, both old and new.  Yes, to say the least, I had a good relationship with my parents, after some rather 'rocky' years and unique situations.  

This Sunday, there was something different though, it was obvious there was something on their minds.  Being close, it did not take long for them to 'get around' to what was on their minds.  My relationship with my father has been rocky through the years, due to several different things.  Hi wife, my stepmother, was the epitome of a mother, at least to me.  Seeing as I had not known my biological mother growing up, my love and adoration of Bobbie was probably greater in many ways.


On this afternoon, something just did not 'feel' right, we were not engage in our normal light hearted manner, cracking stories, reminiscing and 'break' on each other.  When my dad spoke up and told me, 'son we have something to tell you,' I knew it was time to put on my 'game face' and be serious.  What he had to tell me floored me to say the least.


My [step] mother had been diagnosed with cancer, not just the 'garden variety,' but stage 4B Ovarian Cancer, of which her prognosis was not 'good.'  By all accounts the doctors were giving here just months to live, but all the same were going to try a combination of radiation and chemotherapy.  Of course a 'million' questions filled my mind, but they were not finished telling me everything just yet.  To add to the problem, there was no way my father could 'take off' work to see her to her daily treatments.  Immediately and without thought, I told them, 'no problem, I will take a leave of absence or quit my job if necessary.


Now the 'timing' for all this could not come at a more inopportune time, as if any time would be good, or desired!  My company was in the midst of a major contract in California, [I lived in Houston at the time] and I was meant to be traveling to California, any day, for an undetermined amount of time to oversee my portion of the contract.  None of this mattered at the moment, but more so 'taking care' of family did!

The next morning, full prepare to do whatever need be to allow me the time to help my family through this, I was at my manager's office to explain the situation to him.  Now the company I worked for had always been a good company, and most everyone there was family oriented.  All the same, I had not expectation of my manager's decision, when he told me essentially, take the time to do what I needed to do, whatever it took.  Fortunately my position was such at the time that it was pretty flexible and my cell phone was always with me!  

With work 'taken care off' it was time to attend to more urgent and pressing matters, which would take a lot more than work, as I was to find out!  Daily trips to the hospital, Monday through Friday, which often took most of the day!  Sometimes when it was a chemo day, it would turn into an all night deal!  To say the least it was challenging.

Not long after it 'all' started, I put together three loose leaf notebooks with a range of material, covering every bit of information we received from the hospital - information on cancer, treatment schedules, prescriptions with times, side effects and dangers.  Each day when I left my parent's home, I went through the 'collection' of medicines, ensuring they were identified with the schedule to be followed for each.  During these days, my cell phone was even more a 'part' of me than it ever was for work!

The whole 'ordeal' was touch, from watching the effects of treatment on my mother, combined with the daily trips to the hospital,  One of the hardest things though had to be to 'sit' and watch the effect it had on my father.  It was bad enough for him to 'sit and watch' helplessly, all of 'this' going on with his wife, the woman he loved so much, even harder though that the task of 'caring' for her was greatly increased by being so 'hands off' during it all.  


With my father working 'all the time' and away from my mother, I became her primary care giver and my father either had to refer to the notebooks I had began, or talk to me to find out what was what.  One of the most 'depressing' times is when he was off and able to accompany us to the hospital, the doctors did not even know who he was!  One night during the 'whole ordeal' my mother had to go to the emergency room, my father taking her.  Though he so 'much' wanted to be there with her and be the caretaker, he was 'obligated' to call me to meet them there just so I could 'oversee' everything going on.  It was a precarious situation for me, but him especially.  At times like this, I was very thankful for the relationship I share with my parents!


Now my mother was known to be a very outspoken and cantankerous person sometimes - quick to speak what was on her mind to whom ever 'needed' to hear it!  My father though 'quick' to temper for the most part, was a pretty quiet spoken man and mom's 'outbursts' would often send him 'off to the corner.'  It was for this reason my mother told me often she was glad that I was there.  First, I am a very patient man and don't let such things bother me, the second, I knew how to 'handle' my mom and with just a look or a word, I could 'put her in her place' and settle her down!


The 'obligatory' trips to the hospital, were often monotonous and time consuming as trips to the doctor, or hospital often can be.  Even in her weakened and drug induced state, my mom and I made every trip an 'adventure.'  Going into this, one of the things I knew that would be essential and instrumental, was to keep an 'upbeat and lively' outlook.  With my mom, that wasn't too difficult.  Though her pride wanted to keep her from it, the trip from the parking lot to the doctor's office was a 'long' one.  From the very time, despite her protests, I was able to talk her into 'taking a wheelchair' allowing me to 'push her' rather than walking.  These little 'journeys' were akin in many ways to riding the shopping cart through the supermarket on a joy ride!  


It was after all, as the 'cruise director' to ensure the passengers [patient] had as enjoyable a time as possible!  Now it seems to have become my mother's mission in life to marry me off, and the hospital offered a plethora of opportunities for her to 'peddle' me off and indeed she did try at every opportunity she had!  And the hospital was 'full' of opportunity, ever doctor's office we visited, the cafeteria, around every corner it seemed!


After only the first week or so of going for the appointments and treatments, mom had her 'targets' picked out for 'me.'  Though she was always sure to 'check' with me for my opinion before 'acting out,' a positive opinion was like the green flag a the Daytona 500!  That was all she needed.


Now it is funny, the most 'beautiful' of the women she 'picked' out was the head nurse in her primary doctor's office.  Indeed she was a beauty!  So after getting 'comfortable' enough to talk to her, my mom proceeded to ask her one day if she was married. To which she replied 'yes.'   Not to be dissuaded though, my mom proceeded to ask her if she was happily married!  Well even though she was in the process of divorcing, nothing ever came of that.


There was however, the 'crazy' one and it is funny, it is her name that I can remember!  Surely though it was because she lived on the same street that I had for awhile!  There was also the oncologist, a Eastern Indian women, Nothing in either of these cases - though I did talk to Suzanne, a couple of times on the phone.  Yes, Suzanne, was the 'crazy' one!  Really though, I am sure that I remember her name because we lived on the same street!


Seldom was there a dull moment when we were at the hospital!  One day, we were sitting in a waiting room, and sat there for a 'long' time with essentially no one else in the waiting room.  As we say there, my mom looked at the floor at the next row of chairs over and noticed something shiny on the floor!' Bound and determined that is was a diamond ring or something, I kept trying to tell her, no it was something else.  After carrying on about it for some time and letting it 'get the best of her,' she decided it was time to check it out and find out for herself. 


Turns out the object which had been the source of entertainment for some time, an imagined lost and found diamond ring was only a wadded up aluminum gum wrapper!  


Oh year, I will finish the story later and tell you about the dove too.....

The Ring of Fire

After awaking from my nap, it was time to get ready and 'head to town' to take in the sights, sounds, pints, people ~ pubs and karaoke!  Now there was undoubtedly, a great deal to see and do in Glasgow and I wanted to experience it all, or as much as I could! The great thing about visiting this time, was to be along with Ed.  That he was a Scot, and thoroughly versed in the history of the country, it made for a even more interesting trip than if I had been a tourist visiting!  I t definitely provided a different more detailed view and understanding of the city and country!

Awake, dressed and out of the house, the first order of business was a pint to quench our thirst.  Drinking seemed to be a big past time, or at least from my experience.  As we made our way to the first pub, in Glasgow, we walked - yes, walked that in itself a strange feelings.  The general accepted mode of transportation though seemed to be by foot, taxi or public transportation.  Almost always reluctant to take a taxi in the U.S, for fear of the cost, such was not the case at all in Scotland.  Still though, we 'hoofed' it via feet through town.  

The architecture was amazing to say the least!  The ornate sculptures on the sides of buildings, unlike anything to be seen back in States.  There seemed to be history on every street corner and in between!  Without a doubt, Ed was a great and knowledgeable 'tour guide' but just as importantly he new where all the pubs were as well!  While we sat enjoying our pint, discuss ensued as to where and what we should see.  The decision was the University of Glasgow and the The Hunerian, the oldest museum in Glasgow!  Now it seemed strange to travel all the way to Scotland to 'just' visit a museum!  Wow, the thought that comes to mind, first and foremost!  It was awesome and a whole other string of adjectives to describe it!

After visiting and touring the museum, it was time for - yep you guessed it - more beer!  The rest of the afternoon we spent walking around going from pub to pub, taking in the sights as we made out way along.  As night progressed we ended up in an obscure 'back street pub and 'settled in' for the night.  The activities for entertainment for the night at the pub was drinking and karaoke! 

Now as the night progressed and got further into our pint, the goading began for me to sing karaoke!  With numerous protests, I declined to participate - not wishing to 'make a fool' out of myself, I had only sang karaoke once before, many years ago in a faraway land!  Apparently my protest s were either unheard, or ignored as I was to learn when my name was called!  With the announcement that I would be singing, 'Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash.

With some reluctance, I made my way to retrieve the microphone given it was a bit 'late' to back out seeing as when my name was announced, it was also announced I was the yank from California.  Now this elicited a great deal of interest and excitement from the pub crowd!  As nervous as a 'cat on a hot tin roof,' I commenced to sing the words to the song as they scrolled across the video screen!  Now after the song ended, as I greeted by a number of Scots, apparently just as far into their pints as I was.  But I did not buy another pint that night, but my 'glass' was never empty!

If I had to pick

If I had to pick any one place of all the places I have been as a 'favorite' I would be hard pressed to make a decision on which it is. If 'forced' to pick a favorite, it would probably be Scotland, but more about that later. Truly, all of them were special in their own way and for their own reasons! Though Africa, is indeed in the top 5, simply because of my love for animals and nature! Truly, I did learn so much more than I even knew after my visit there!

When we stayed in Africa, while on the 'safari' we stayed a Hilton, nice yes, but it was unique because of the location. While you might imagine it was near or in a big city, it actually was in the 'middle of nowhere!' Out of all the Hiltons and Hyatts and almost every other hotel and motel imaginable, I have never had orientation when I checked in. That was not the case here! After we checked in at the desk, the group of us were assembled and warned about going outside after dark.

Now, this was without a doubt, one of the most unique Hiltons, I had ever seen or stayed in. It was only 2 stories, and square shaped, with 'everything' inside the square. Everything that is except the garbage receptacles. It is for this reason, we were told to stay 'in' the square at night. The reason the 'wild' animals came up at night to 'check out' the garbage receptacle. To be outside the square made one 'subject' to being dinner for a wild animal!

After our orientation, we were escorted to our rooms. Now the rooms held another unexpected surprise! When we entered the room, a net was found to be suspended over the beds. Of course in my innocence and inexperience, I asked about the need for the 'mosquito nets' at night. Promptly the bell help corrected and enlightened me that the nets were not mosquito nets and they were not there for convenience! More so, they were snake nets and 'required.' Another interesting thing about this hotel – there was no air conditioning! Therefore the sliding doors were apt to be open and snakes apt to crawl into the rooms and beds! Point taken and I did sleep with the net securely fastened about the bed – as I am most certain 'everyone' else did that night!

With check-in and orientation over, it was time for a little relaxation and exploring before dinner. After getting cleaned up and'squared away' my friend and roommate for the night, Bryan and I, went downstairs and outside the square while it was still light. It was close to sunset, and while outside got to view what must have been the most beautiful sunset, I could ever imagine! Almost the entire sky was orange and surrounding an even darker orange orb which was the sun! The vast expanse of the savannah and the desert lent dust to the air which filtered the sunlight, giving it the orange cast we observed! Trul unique, as well as magnificent!

After a short time, we all met up in the dining room for dinner, where we had an awesome dinner and some socializing. After dinner, there were not any clubs or bars nearby, so were limited to the hotel bar and lobby for our entertainment. It was here on this night I became familiar with Toasted Almond cocktails! The delightful combination of coffee and almond liqueurs make this creamy concoction a great indulgence. They are awesome, to say the least! So that evening, myself and a few other shipmates sat in the lobby enjoying the 'new' fond concoction and conversation!

While sitting, enjoying the evening, someone looked up into the 'tower' which loomed over our heads in the lobby. Upon closer observation we noticed it was 'full' of seemingly 1000's of bats! An inquiry with the hotel staff, to confirm what we thought we saw, which was indeed what we thought. The tower was open to the outside allowing the bats access to the interior where they roosted during the day, and made their way out for the foraging and hunting at night! Truly a unique and interesting experience – a night of Toasted Almonds, bats in the lobby of the Hilton in the 'middle of nowhere.

The Pllumber and Blue Jeans

After the ride from the airport, we arrived at the Hopkin's home for a more 'quiet' and formal visit face to face, in the living room.  This was not before breakfast!  Which Mrs. Hopkins insisted in preparing for Ed and I, assuredly, we must be famished after our flight, and apparent night of drinking!  Far be it, for me to 'refuse' food, so I sat down to enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast!  Ah, not so different from a traditional American breakfast, that is accept for the one addition, which you don't find on an American breakfast menu!  Black [Blood]  Pudding!  To say the least, breakfast was good!  Perhaps due to the 'long' plane ride and all, but suffice to say, the only time I had, or have had black pudding is that morning!

After breakfast, we all 'retired' to the living room to visit and catch up on things!  Now while we sat visiting, myself on the couch and Mrs. Hopkins, sitting across from me in a chair, she noticed the blue jeans I had on.  A 'designer' pair of blue jeans with a purposefully placed 'worn' hole in the leg!  Seeing this Mrs. Hopkins, offered to get her needle and thread to repair them for me!  LOL Imagine trying to explain to her that the hole was intentional!  With a laugh, I declined her offer and we continued chatting about other things.  This was not before, Ed 'warned' me that she was not convinced or understood about the 'hole' in the jeans!  She was very likely to 'snatch' the jeans from the laundry to repair them.  Needless to say, when I changed, I 'stuffed' the jeans to the bottom of my bad and did not get them out again before leaving!

After chatting for a bit, it was determined by all that Ed and I should sleep for a wee bit, before we progressed to town to begin our 'tour' of the city!  Now this sounded to be a good idea, but before a nap, a shower was in order!  Ah but first, the shower head had to be installed!  The bathtub was just that ~ a bathtub with no shower head!  Now Mr. Hopkins had purchase an 'add on' shower head to be installed, but not being a mechanical person, he 'left' it for me to install!  Apparently, Ed had informed his parents previously that I had some mechanical aptitude!  So before I showered, first I was to install the shower!

Now this required drilling into ceramic tile to affix the fixture to the wall!  Somewhat reluctant giving my previous night lack of sleep, my 'immense' intake of alcohol and the mere fact that I did not want to 'screw' this up and turn it into a bigger project than it should be - I acquiesced and climbed into the bathtub to install the shower head.  Fortunately with little trouble and without cracking any ceramic tiles, I was able to successfully install the shower head!  While installing the shower head, I could not help but imagine how long this house had stood, existing without a shower!  Not to mention, the countless baths taken!  The Hopkins family is quite 'large', all 'boys,' Mrs. Hopkins, being the only female of the lot!  [Which made for pretty interesting dynamics!]

After the shower, it was time for 'my' bed, which involved the 'museum.'  Having lived there, Ed naturally had his 'old' bedroom while mine was to be one the other 'boys' had occupied when home.  Since the emptying of the 'nest,' Mr. Hopkins, a retired Glasgow, police officer, had turned the bedroom into what was affectionately referred to as the 'museum.'  
After a tour of the museum, it was time for a nap....

Before sleeping though, I removed my blue jeans, rolled them up and stuffed them into the bottom of my bag!  Having been forewarned, Ms. Hopkins was apt to seek them out and upon finding them, affix the repairs she was 'sure' they required!  Feeling sleepy, but secure that my jeans were safe, I drifted off to my slumber....for a short while.

Raised Terror Alert

The trip was planned, plans made and the travel itinerary set.  As with most business trips, the details were laid out sometime before.  Thought travel to Livingston, Scotland, to the office there were not uncommon, this one was going to be 'special.'  This time it worked out that both Ed and myself would be able to go at the same time, which our schedules did not usually work out to make such travel possible.  Ed was the Business Manager for the business model, essentially my 'opposite,' as I was the technology manager for the business model.

What made this trip special was that Ed was a Scotsman from Glasgow, so to be able to make the trip with him, made a 'tour guide' for the trip and almost certainly guaranteed a different view of the 'country' than I was accustomed.  As part of the planning for the trip, we worked it out to be able to go over a couple of days before our planned business requirements which necessitated the trip in the first place.  Even better, we planned it out to be in Glasgow over the weekend, before we had to be at the office on Monday.

Packed and ready to go, Ed and I met at our office in Fremont, having enough time to check email and such before we headed to the airport.  Which in hindsight was probably a good thing.  When we arrived at the office, things started 'buzzing' with emails and phone calls from corporate travel telling us to modify our travel plans, more so our packing.  There had been a terrorist threat in Heathrow, that changed the procedures for traveling and the way you could pack to get through the airport and on the plane. 

So rather than carry on luggage and laptop bags, Ed and I, stood in the parking lot outside the office that morning, repacking, 'shoving' everything we could into our luggage to be checked.  Things were pretty normal, or seemed to be as we checked in at the San Francisco airport and prepared to take the flight to Heathrow.   Only difference noticeable - no liquids through the gate.  No worries for Ed and me, as we had repacked before arriving at the airport.  Since we had, we did not carry anything on, not even a book or an IPOD for the 12-13 hour plane ride!

No worries, or so we thought since the majority of the flight would be at night, so we figured there would be ample time to sleep and be well rested when we arrived the next morning, and to 'tour' Glasgow.  So after arriving at the airport, we ended up at the bar and drank our breakfast was we awaited the boarding of our flight.

Despite the 'special' situation, the travel was going fairly smooth as we boarded the plane to make our way 'abroad.'  The boarding of the flight in San Francisco, went smoothly and on time and we arrived and departed Chicago, with no issues!  Shortly after we boarded the flight to make our way across the ocean, things began to get interesting.  

Fortunately, we had arranged seats in the center aisle of the plane, and luck be with us, we had a row of three seats to ourselves, giving us room to 'stretch out' and sleep in preparation of our arrival and our weekend!  Once we were airborne, it became pretty immediately obvious we would not be getting much sleep, but not for the reason we thought.  Sitting in an aisle a couple of rows behind was a fairly 'loud' woman who was quite boisterous and verbal, the noise she was creating making sleep 'impossible.'  Good fortune be with us though, the flight attendant found another seat, somewhere else on the plane for the woman to relocate to.  Finally it seemed peace and quiet would be ours and allow the sleep we were planning on getting.

Ha!  Such was not to be so!  The flight attendant who was in our section, seemed to take 'pity' on Ed and I, for having to 'put up' with the woman, and as they drink cart came around, the attendant gave us a bottle of wine!  Well both Ed and I being somewhat wine 'lovers' [it had alcohol didn't it? and who can 'pass up' free liquor!?]  Well between the two of us, a bottle of wine did not last long and when it was finished, it seemed we would 'finally' get some sleep.  As we were getting 'settled' in preparing to sleep, the flight attendant happened by with another [gratis] bottle of wine.  Again, neither Ed or I, to be ones to refuse free alcohol, we gladly took the bottle and had another glass of wine!  

The wine bottle was soon empty, but before it was the flight attendant passed us by again, with yet another bottle of [gratis] wine.  And yet again, it was beyond us to 'refuse' it or save it for later, so we had another bottle of wine!  We passed away the time sharing the bottle of wine and making conversation about most anything imaginable.  Still we thought there would be enough time for at least a 'long' nap between the time we finished this bottle of wine and the time we landed in Heathrow.  Well the bottles of wine kept coming [gratis] until the 'wee' hours of the morning.  

Finally, the last time the flight attendant came by, yet again offering another bottle of wine, we declined admitting the need to nap before we landed.  Turning the overhead light off, it seemed 'plenty' dark so surely there was enough time for a nap before we landed!  Almost as soon as I closed my eyes, the reason why it was so dark was almost immediately revealed and it was not because of the hour!  The darkness was broken and the daylight revealed when the person across the aisle raised the blind on their window, 'uncovering' the sun and letting the light in!  

Well at this point, we were to close to landing to go to sleep!  So we rode out the rest of the flight as we made our descent and landing at Heathrow!  After making our way through customs and all, we wound our way through the airport to catch our flight to Glasgow.  From this point on, the trip went smoothly and quietly and we landed in Glasgow, to be met by Ed's parents!  As we stood waiting to get our luggage from the carousel, we chatted with Ed's parents. After a short time, Mrs. Hopkins informed us that we were phished [drunk] which was just unimaginable!  

After we retrieved our luggage, we made way to the car and subsequently the trip to their house.  As it had been awhile since they had seen Ed, and even longer since I had seen them [I had met them previously when they came to the states on holiday] and both Ed and I were sleep deprived, as well as being drunk!  It was a 'lively' trip to the house!

Ouzo and Communists

It seems that most every country came with its own 'warnings' of things to avoid while we were there visiting, the two things we were warned of when we visited Greece were ouzo and communists.  Ouzo, the national drink of Greece is illegal because it contains absinthe,  and is considered to be psychoactive, or narcotic effects and possible death.  Though it is legal to buy ouzo in the U.S., it is not the true ouzo as it is distilled to taste the same, but not contain the same ingredients, or have been processed [distlled] the same way.

Though I can recall 'visiting' a bar while there, sitting around the table with a number of shipmates, one afternoon enjoying our drinks, getting the 'necessary' fill of 'rum.' partying and drinking was not the same past time while there as it was in other places.  And of course, we 'avoided' the ouzo.

The other thing we were told to avoid while there was the communist protests which were going on at the military base on the island at the time. 

Despite the 'lack' of drinking and this 'warning' of visiting the military base to avoid the communist, there was plenty to see and do while we were there!  Actually there was more to see and do, than the time permitted!  So my choice was to visit the Tempe of Apollo, which was in my mind, the 'best' choice!

To get to the temple from the city, was a rather 'long' bus ride and it provided an opportunity to see the countryside during the travels.   It was amazing as we traveled along the highway to see the 'red mountains' [due to their high iron content] and the olive trees that seemingly 'lined' the countryside.  Along the way, we stopped at a 'roadside' outpost for souvenirs and to 'visit' with the locals' for time.

Now this outpost was not a 'tourist trap' such as one might imagine one would visit while traveling the U.S.!  It was no 'chain' that is for sure and it wasn't 'right off' the highway' either!  Instead, it was a wooden building, where a number of goods and wares were available for purchase. Not the multitude of 'popped' trinkets and souvenirs one might find while stopping while traveling the U.S., but genuine goods and products of the local community!  Still I can remember the wool jacket I bought while there, though I haven't a clue what happened to it!

After the 'brief' stop at the outpost, it was onward to the main purpose of the trip and undoubtedly the highlight of the trip, the Temple of Apollo!  Back then, and even now, the Temple of Apollo, was and is a 'big' thing and I expected a magnificent and colossal visitor [tourist] center to 'mark' the spot, surrounded by a 'sprawling' metropolis - after all, isn't that what I would expect 'back home' around such a significant sight?  It was obvious Greece was not home as we pulled into the parking lot for the temple.  Instead the Temple was surrounded by trees, mountains and Quiet!!

Despite the 'lack' of home, all the expected sights and sounds.  Where the heck was the McDonalds or Denny's?  It was still awe inspiring and breath taking. Not so much in the maintained landscape and 'remodeled' and well maintained facility, but more just by the history and thought of all that had taken place here!  It was quite a surprise to me, that we were actually able to go into the stadium and sit on the very 'seats' that undoubtedly many others had 'during the day.'  There was nothing modern about the Temple, no signs advertising the local 'hot spots' or eateries, instead the 'raw' arena, much as it must have appeared during the time that is was a 'center' of activity!  Siting the arena, it was hard not to look out on the 'field' and imagine the activities that went on during the time the Temple was 'alive.'

Indeed, not the most interesting of stories I am sure, but the experience and opportunity to travel to and visit Greece was in many ways, for many reasons well worth it!  Undoubtedly, it is a place I would go to visit again, should the opportunity arise!

First Tattoo

Missing Ship's movement has to be one of the most serious thing's a sailor can do, but not this time....

Of all the places I have been Scotland, had to be one of my favorite places of all, for many reasons.  The people, the history, the architecture of the buildings, there is just so much of it all.  The people are fantastic and it has to be but one of the many reasons I like Scotland so much.

The first time I visited Scotland, Edinburgh first and foremost, was back in 1982, when things were very different all over the world, in many different ways than they are now.  About 25 years later, I returned to Edinburgh, and many things had changed about the city, the people and the attitudes of it all.  More about that later though, for now, let me tell you about this visit in particular and many of the things that occurred during my visit.

Without a doubt, if drinking is on your mind, Scotland has to be one of the best places in the world to do it!  Especially in that time and day.  The atmosphere in the pubs is so much different than the bars and club of the United States. For a thirsty sailor, it is almost 'ideal' since you could go into a pub in the 'middle of the afternoon' and it was acceptable, almost expected and 'wet your whistle' while downing a pint or two!

On this particular afternoon, several other shipmates and myself, were out seeing the town and pub hopping to get our fill!  Sometime in the early afternoon, we spotted a tattoo shop and the consent was we should go and get a tattoo.  A natural thing for a sailor to do right?  So off to the tattoo shop we went, four or five us.  Upon arriving at the tattoo shop, we were 'revved' up and all motivated to get our 'first' tattoo.  When we got to the shop though, we were informed it would be 'awhile,' but we were welcome to wait.  Well the decision was made to wait our turn, but the wait turned out to be longer than our ability to wait for the next pint.  So in search of another pub, we abandoned the tattoo shop and ventured forward to the nearest pub!

While we sat in the pub, socializing and getting our fill of ale, we learned of a concert going on later that 'night' in the local 'hall.'  Though we had never heard of the performed, Elvis Costello, we decided it was worth a go and decided to attend. 

What a good decision it turned out to be as well.  The venue was small, maybe 800-1000 people and it was more like a school auditorium.  We must not have sat down the whole concert though, instead standing to enjoy the music and see the performers over the heads of the rest of the crowd there. The acoustics in the hall were great, as was the music! 

It was a pretty calm night with not a lot happening as we became acquainted with city, more playing like tourists than sailors.  It all worked out well though, never did get the 'first' tattoo at that time.  Learning that the 'wait' was due to another shipmate getting work done on a 'massive' tattoo that 'ran' from his shoulder to his calf!  Seemed one of his 'traditions' was to get a little more work done on the tat in each port.

From some aspects and points of view, it was a somewhat boring day but for us, it was 'great' just to take it all in and be able to drink and experience an 'unheard' of 'local' performer.  The 'trip' did get better though!

The 'Gut'

Earlier, I was thinking about my travels around the world, trying to 'recall' something I could share and entertain you and not bore you and I came to the conclusion, I would probably need to write a book LOL to be able to share all the experiences that I at least feel are noteworthy and worth sharing! It seems that each country had its own 'theme' to remember and sometimes, undoubtedly you would have had to been there and a part of it, at least to appreciate in the same way that I did. Since the times are past and the occasions but a memory, I try to make them interesting. Probably one of the countries that I have been to the most is Spain.

Often this was the first country we 'hit' after crossing the Atlantic, making our way to the Mediterranean Ocean and points further after leaving our home port of Norfolk VA. It is a very diverse country with much to offer and it is a major bummer to me that I did not spend more time enjoying the culture and all that the country had to offer. As a 'young man' and as it was most always our first and last port a call – after leaving the states and before returning, it was often all about the party! Still the same, there are many stories, some of them interesting associated with the place.

One of the places we visited often was Palma Spain, in the region known as Costa del Sol – the Coast of the Sun. The time to travel across the Atlantic, was one week. After leaving home port, the need and desire for 'relaxation and recreation' were very much needed and desired by many of the 5000 men aboard the ship, many of them 'young' and in many ways Palma, was 'great' as just the place to 'let off steam' before we traversed further to take up station in the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean even.

There were 'mild' portions of the city, but still they offered 'rest and relaxation' or more so alcohol and women, which were two of the primary concerns, or so it seemed, to many! Within the city was an area known as 'the Gut,' the red light district, which offered 'anything and everything' a person might want. There was only one occasion that I visited the 'Gut,' mainly out of curiosity, to see what it was 'all about.' Now on this particular adventure, I decided to visit the area with my 'buddy' of the time, Ken, a more 'senior' individual – all of about maybe five or six years older, but who had been in the Navy for several more years and in many ways seemed more wise. Now Ken was a bit of 'heavy drinker,' maybe even an alcoholic on some scales.

All the same, he was a shipmate, my supervisor in the office I worked in and someone who held knowledge and wisdom of some things, so with all of this, I agreed to accompany him to explore the 'Gut.' Now one of the things that Ken and I shared was a 'passion' for music and we often shared and exposed one another to new forms and genres. One of Ken's favorites was the Doors – almost to the point of being an obsession it seemed sometimes! On the night I had agreed to go to the 'Gut,' it was also the first night of 'liberty call' which required the wearing of our dress uniform assure, making us 'easily' identifiable as U.S. Sailors.

As we entered the 'Gut' it was apparent that it was an older part of the city for more reasons than one. Perhaps the most obvious was the architecture. Also though, it was the 'party' atmosphere that one felt immediately upon entering the 'Gut.' Though I have never been to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, that is the closest thing I can relate it to, in some ways based on my experiences with Mardi Gras in other places. The two story buildings, with the shops below and apartments above and 'tons' of people in the streets and 'hanging' from the windows! It was quite 'festive' in many ways. Of course the arrival of the 'fleet' especially an aircraft carrier and the battle group and the 'throng' of men it brought, often caused quite the festivities! LOL Horney, thirsty and adventurous 'dumb' young men – with pockets 'full of money.' What better reason to 'party?'

Almost immediately upon 'entering the Gut' the music of the Doors reached our ears and of course, being thirst and anxious for the first beer, the sounds of the bar made it a 'natural' place to make the first 'watering hole' of the night! Grabbing my arm and insisting that we go inside, Ken took my arm and proceed to 'drag me' towards the sound of the music. Proceeding up the stairs, he announced he needed to go to the 'head' [men's room] and that I should go to the bar and order 'us' a couple of cerveza, while he went to the head. With his departure to the 'back' of the bar towards the head, I made my way to the bar and placed my order for a couple of beers. Let me tell you, it did not take more than a second to realize this was not the type of bar I wished to 'hang' in all night drinking. Turning my back to the bar and leaning against it to 'sip' on my beer, I looked around the place and noticed the sparsity of people in the establishment, especially women, there were none!

Now I am not homophobic, quite actually some of my best friends in life have been gay and lesbian, bisexual or other things. Even before this experience, a number of my friends were 'gay,.' When I was 'young' 'gay bars' where actually somewhere I 'hung' out with my friends at times. The one thing though, almost all I encountered 'knew' and did not try to influence or coerce, which is my preference and belief! This was not the way it was in this establishment! Come on, we were in the 'Gut,' the 'fleet' was in and it was all about the money!

Well while Ken was 'away' to the head and I stood waiting 'enjoying' my beer, I was made offers, not once but twice. Despite the language barrier, it was pretty obvious what the offers were! Not for me thank you! As I stood at the bar, Ken emerged from the 'head' and made his way to where I stood. As he reached for his beer sitting on the bar, I began making my way to the door! Grabbing my arm, Ken 'pulled' me back to the bar and wanted to know where I was going and why! LOL now Ken was, or seemed to be homophobic and upon my telling him the type of establishment we were in, he was in a bigger hurry than me! Still a 'full' beer was enticement enough to prompt him to stay for a moment and at least finish it!

Acquiescing , I agreed to stay and finish the one beer, which I had all ready bought and paid for, before we left. That was probably the fastest I ever drank a beer in my life. Before the last gulp, I was heading towards the stairs to make my way to the street below and the 'rest of the Gut!'