Ramblings from Camp Leatherneck 2011-04-23

Guest Post from MSgt Joel Weber
MSgt/USMC, Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan

Ramblings of a Deployed Mind – Week 8

Week 8 is underway here in the sunny (and dusty), beautiful (and dirty), and scorching (102°F right now) Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan. First, let me wish you all a very Happy Easter! May the one who has risen bless us all. We kicked off the day with a stunning 0530 sunrise service. Watching the sun rise over military vehicles and construction sites—it’s surreal. When you consider what the day stands for and our mission here, it hits differently. I hope the Easter Bunny made his rounds back home! I received a few Easter baskets this week, and I want to thank everyone for the thoughtful gifts.

It’s been a busy week—time flew by, and I’m not sure where it went, but I’m not complaining. My days typically start at 0730 and end around midnight or 0100. There’s always something to do or someone to support, and that’s exactly why we’re here. Around 2300, we usually put on a movie for some background noise (and sometimes we actually get to watch it) while finishing up our work. This week, we spent some time training with our NATO partners, and I’ve got to say—I love the way the Brits talk. Even when they’re upset, they still manage to sound upbeat and cheerful. It’s quite amusing. We also used the British Forces Post Office (BFPO) for the first time. Had to send some items back to the UK since our post office doesn’t support it. Odd, right? And speaking of my British friends, I received my first EBluey this week, which is basically the British version of MotoMail. Looks like I’m making international pen pals!

On the U.S. side, I was introduced to a website called The Art of Manliness. Let me tell you—it’s hilarious. I’ve also earned a new nickname this week: “Eeyore.” Yep, you read that right. And no, it’s not because of my ears! Apparently, I came off a bit too laid-back in a meeting (I brief the same stuff every day), and the nickname stuck. With all my usual energy and chatter, I guess it’s a bit ironic, but I’m rolling with it. And yes, I do love meetings—no sarcasm at all. A few Marines received awards this week, catching up with them from back home. It’s always great to see Marines being recognized for their hard work. A good friend in Bagram earned a Joint Service Achievement Medal for her accomplishments, and she’s wrapping up her yearlong tour and heading home soon. Though we’re not technically a joint command, NATO and our British and Estonian comrades don’t seem to mind!

My daughters have been on vacation this week in Virginia with Ryan’s family, but I got to talk to them last night (my time). They’re both doing well and enjoying their Easter break. The Easter Bunny apparently forgot they were away and ended up delivering five baskets to their home in North Carolina. Guess he got a little overzealous, but hey, you can never have too many baskets of candy—unless you’re the parent dealing with it! Also, if you haven’t heard, Kirstin’s “Kure for Kirstin” 2011 Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis Walk is almost at her goal. If you haven’t checked it out yet, I highly recommend reading about it: Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis. Kirstin’s positivity through it all motivates me more than I can say.

I’m still working toward my 600-mile running goal for the year. I’m currently at 240 miles and looking like I might crush that target. We’ve had to adjust our run schedules because of the heat, so no more evening runs—just early mornings until fall. This week, I stuck to shorter 5-6 mile runs, though I did manage to twist my ankle (always looking for an excuse to take a day off!). I know what you’re thinking—“You’re getting old!” Maybe, but when I turn 35 next month, I’ll hopefully still look 34 (though I doubt it). On the bright side, my mustache is coming along nicely!

In true Marine Corps fashion, we’re moving rooms again. You can never get too comfortable, right? But hey, having my own space is a win. Not that it matters much since I’m hardly ever in the room. Some of you may have noticed that I’ve been a little more active on Facebook and Twitter this week. It’s not easy since we don’t have direct access to those sites, but we’re supposed to have Wi-Fi in our living areas next month—finally!

Anyway, I’ll let you all enjoy your Easter Sunday, and I’ll be back next week with another installment of Ramblings of a Deployed Mind for Week 9. Thanks again for all your love and support. There’s nothing like receiving mail from home—it truly makes a difference.

Semper Fi,
Joel “Eeyore” Weber
MSgt/USMC, Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan
Twitter: @Marines1994