This actually was released a few weeks ago, but I forgot to post it on here. My appearance on the aforementioned podcast is up, and there’s actually a short appearance coming up again soon, so I’ll be sure to update with that as well. Overall I think it went well, despite my attempts to not speak in monotone failing for the most part. And it seems to take a bit to really get going. Also, there are a few amazing movies talked about that you should check out as soon as you get the chance.
Listen to ME!
17 12 2009
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Categories : Blandy joins the modern age, Movies, TV
First Rule of Iraq Club: Don’t Talk About Iraq Club
17 12 2009This is more of a personal rule for me than one for everyone who’s been to Iraq. In fact, it seems like every time I’m on a plane with other guys in uniform, there’s always one sitting near me talking about it to another passenger for the entire flight. Whether I’m in uniform or not, though, as soon as I’m away from this godforsaken place I don’t really want to think or talk about it much. Part of the reason is a particular question that tends to come up, usually from people I barely know or met 30 seconds beforehand.
Actual conversation from back in 2004, when I was home on leave during my first tour and buying a laptop:
Best Buy Employee: So, would you like the service plan?
Me: No thanks, I might not even be around here again before it expires.
BBE: Oh, traveling? Will there be another Best Buy near you?
Me: Uh, no….I’ll be in Iraq.
BBE: Oh, okay.
Me: Yeah, I’m just home from there on leave.
(pause)
BBE: So, have you killed anyone?
Me: ……
This question is rather personal and somewhat verboten in general, even among people close to someone in the military. So when it comes up from a complete stranger, it irks me more than a little, as you might imagine. I realize Best Buy employees might need some distraction from the soul sucking experience that working there must be, but seriously….this isn’t the way to go about it.
And speaking of traveling in uniform, it always ends up rather awkward for me. Every few minutes someone is coming up and wanting to shake my hand and thank me. I really do appreciate it, but I never really know how to respond and end up just looking awkward and staying quiet.
I don’t mind you buying me beer, though. Keep ‘em coming. You’re a Great American.
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Categories : Diplomatic Efforts
Back from leave….
6 12 2009Actually I got back about a week ago, but let’s not mince words. Some movies that were seen:
Zombieland is one of the raddest things that will ever be rad. Being where I’m at actually helped going into this movie, as it was virtually hypeless other than a few friends saying “It’s really good!” I had no idea about it other than that, besides the fact that it had zombies and was a comedy. You didn’t know about the cameo? Hell, I didn’t even know Woody Harrelson was in it. And he easily made the movie.
Where the Wild Things Are was, in the words of the ladyfriend, “sad and empty”. I realize the book wasn’t exactly joyful and full of warm fuzzy feelings, but this was a real downer for a kids’ movie. And nothing really stood out in the movie to make up for that. I suppose the creatures were well done, but they weren’t anything special. Just people in suits with CGI faces, and that’s exactly what it looked like.
UP, well, it’s Pixar. Not Incredibles Pixar, but definitely better than Cars or Finding Nemo Pixar.
There’s more to write, but I’m sleepy and it’s nap time before I go on duty.
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Categories : Uncategorized
