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Stumbled upon my blog…thinking about writing in it now since I have some free time…we’ll see.

My birthday was spent relaxing on a beach in the Bahamas then going out to eat and relaxing by the pool.  It was amazing.  Myself, E, and a few others didn’t have to start work until 3:30 so we all got together and relaxed.  It was amazing.  Later that night we then celebrated up on Deck 5 until 2:30am.  I worked until 1, but still, my birthday was a blast.  Below is a picture that was taken of me on the beach that day.  But this post is short because I’m finishing up some stuff at starbucks then heading back to the ship.  Au revoir!

Life is good.  I’m currently sitting in a very comfortable and padded lounge chair outside of the Cove Cafe on Deck 9.  I am facing out on the Port side and watching Nassau float by.  We just left port and are now sailing through the small channel into the open sea.  I also just finished my Chocolate banana smoothie and am listening to some amazing music.  Can’t complain.  In an hour a couple of us are going to go watch Toy Story the Musical stage show.  I’ve been on the ship for over 2 months now and have yet to see it.  We have the #1 rated entertainment in the industry so I expect this show to be just as good as the others.  I am on “Early’s.”  This means that I work from 8am to 6pm straight.  Of course I’ll sneak away for lunch and such, but no big break in the middle.  But now I am off and I can relax until tomorrow when we’re at Castaway Cay.  I signed up to go Jet Skiing tomorrow but unfortunately they couldn’t accommodate due to scheduling conflicts.  Oh well.  My birthday is also coming up on May 11th and we’ll be in Nassau…it’s a good coincidence that we also have a Late-Night that day…meaning we don’t leave port until 2am.  This is (I think) our 5th late night we’ve had since I’ve been on the ship.  But, since it is my birthday what I think I’m going to do is rather than ask to get off early to celebrate I want to have a big break in the middle of the day.  I’ve already been out a few times for late night and Bambu and Senor Frogs will always be there.  So both E and I are asking for a big mid day break and then we’ll find something to do – relax on the beach, go to a fancy restaurant, and who knows.  So Happy Birthday to me!

We are now in the open waters and what a beautiful view.  The sun will probably be setting in the next 30 minutes and it’s hidden behind a thin layer of clouds causing the rays to shine down onto the Atlantic.  It’s very peaceful and tranquil.  I am definitely excited to come back to do another contract.  Yes there are long hours and hard times, but it’s moments like these where it all makes up for it.  I feel lucky to be here…considering there are only ~50 americans who work on board and it’s considered the #1 cruise ship in the world.  Apparently if I sign up for another contract then my next contract will be during Dry Dock…this is where we’ll be docked and a ton of repairs/housekeeping occurs for 2-3 weeks.  2-3 weeks of cleaning the ship and hanging out.  The last dry dock occurred in North Carolina I guess, but rumor now is that it will ocurr on an island in the bahamas.  Also with dry dock, I guess our shifts will never start before 9am and end no later than 6pm or so.  And we can get off the ship at night and have fun.  Apparently it is just a TON of fun.  I’m excited for that experience as well.

I still miss all my good friends from OSU and Bend and I wish they would come visit, but I also know I’ll see a lot of them come June.  June 21st is when I fly back to Oregon.  Hang out in Oregon for a bit then E plans on coming to visit after she’s done backpacking Europe.  Then maybe head to Orlando to hang out with my current roommate here on the ship…his vacation coincides with mine so we hope we can plan a trip to Disney world and live in a hotel for a week or two and just have fun.  But who knows, time will tell. I really don’t see myself staying in Bend for the entire 6 weeks of my vacation.  But I’m going to go ahead and logon the internet and update the blog with this post and head back down to my room to get ready for the show.  Hope all is well in the states!  Cheers!

Here are a few pictures of some of the latest happenings.  First picture is from the beginning of the night on our “Late Night Nassau.”  Following this picture we walked (forever) to Outback Steakhouse for dinner, the Green Parrot for drinks, then of course to Senor Frogs.  Second picture is of well, my home.  Third picture is all of us dressed up for a Martini night…note to self: next contract, pack more formal wear.  Lastly, the fourth picture is us at the Hollywood Studios.  Enjoy.

Don’t worry, I’m alive everyone.  Just been extremely busy.  Not just with work but also with my social life.  It seems as if I’m rarely actually in my room anymore.  Working obviously takes up the most time as we all work approximately 70 hours a week.  Then the free time I do have is spent mostly with E.  I really don’t know where to begin when explaining what I have been up to.  I’ll just bullet some of the cooler things I’ve done recently…

Spent a day with E at Atlantis, ate at a restaurant called Anthony’s and walked around enjoying a nice morning/afternoon off.  Sat around on the beach for a bit and just talked and watched the people walk by. Went on a walk up to the Queen’s Staircase and an old fort on a hill in Nassau.  Waterfall wasn’t running at the staircase but it still was a great time and enjoyed every minute of it. Went snorkeling at Castaway Cay and saw a stingray and burnt my back. Went to the Magic Kingdom early in the morning one day with a small group and, of course, had a great time. Went to Hollywood Studios for a Recognition trip because our department scored amazing on the cruise survey. Have had many late night Nassau’s because our scores have been ridiculous.  The last late night was just a few days ago and went to the Outback Steakhouse and then out to a few bars, ending on Deck 5.  Saw the premiere of the Disney movie Earth in the theater on the ship.  Interesting movie, great cinematography.  If you saw the Planet Earth series then it’s just like that. Was on the Crew Olympics Dodgeball team, which we took Silver…should’ve been Gold, but…well, oh well. DJ’d a night at the Crew Bar.  It was a “Back To School” Party featuring 90’s songs…however, after the 3rd song a guest in a stateroom complained about loud music from below his room, so we had to stop.  But luckily we are having another night to makeup for this in a few days. There are quite a few pictures up now on Facebook of some of this stuff.  If you don’t have a facebook account then you’re just out of luck for now.  But I’ll try to upload some on here sometime too.  I’m feeling brain-dead tonight, so this post is probably boring and dry.  I’m struggling for material.  But all in all I can say I am thoroughly enjoying my time on the ship.  I’ve got a ton of new friends who are in the same boat as I am (no pun intended, har har har), and we are all so supportive of each other.  The 8-9 team is also amazing and we are all so different but yet, we fit together so perfectly.  Then on top of that I am so glad I have met the people I have and have gotten to know E and spend so much time with her especially.  Alright, well, I’m going to go grab some tea at the crew mess then head on out.  I’ll write more later when I’m actually in a typing mood.  Cheers.

Currently sitting in the starbucks in Nassau right now and just finished my Iced Latte.  If you buy one drink you get two free hours of internet, which isn’t that bad of a deal.  Especially if you’re from the Northwest and are addicted to coffee in the first place like me.  But I’m refusing to buy internet cards on the ship now because in the first 2-3 weeks on the ship I spent $60 on them and I was wasting too much time on facebook/myspace when I could’ve been out enjoying things on the ship and on the islands.  So if I’m not updating things as much that is why.  I’ll still be able to write emails and such, but I won’t send them until I have internet (either while I’m in Port Canaveral or in Starbucks).  But things are going great here on the ship.  Meeting some amazing people and definitely have very little to complain about.  Miss all you Bendites I know, but I’ll be back to visit in June for a week or two.  I’m 99% sure I’ll be doing another contract after this one as well.  Rumors are going around about the new ships being built and they sound AMAZING!  It would be so great to get on one of those in a year or two.  But like I said, this is just a quick update to let ya know that I’m doing great, loving the life/job here and I’ll try to update again soon when I can.  All my free time is spent now hanging out with friends and enjoying ship life rather than online or in my room.  It seems I am rarely in my room anymore.  Alright, off I go back to the ship for a quick bite to eat and then work until 1:30am.  Cheers!

Well, here I am, sitting on my top bunk, legs sunburnt and loving it.  Oh yes, my pale white Oregonian skin has not seen the sun for a few months and now it’s loving it.  I’ve been on board for 3 weeks now.  Today was my 3 week anniversary.  And quite honestly, it’s been a blast.  I truly enjoy it here.  I have yet to have a feeling of doubt.  The people I have met here are great!  The job has of course it’s ups and downs but so far has not been overwhelmingly difficult.  If anything I’ve enjoyed the challenges it has presented me and I try my best to seek for more.  I feel like I’ve made some great connections with the managers and HR.  I really want this opportunity here to open up the door for future opportunities.  Everyone who I’ve talked to about that has told me that right now is the time to step up because of the way the business is growing.  There are two brand new ships scheduled to set sail in the next year or two.  The rumor is that they will send 25% of the crew from each current ship to the new ships.  Positive for transitioning: New LARGER ship.  Negative: they would be taking over the current Wonder & Magic itinerary, thus my ports would stay the same.  It’s definitely way too soon to determine anything but it definitely keeps me motivated. 

Work is going great though, still learning all the responsibilities of the job and have had a few times to get off and enjoy the islands.  Last night I got off early and went to the theater on the ship and watched Bolt in 3D.  Then a few days ago I had a good 5 hour chunk of time off while in Nassau so I went on a walk around the town.  I didn’t have any cash on me so I didn’t buy anything.  But I just got paid and think I might go buy an awesome pair of fake Gucci or Prada sunglasses.  If anyone wants a fake Coach or Louis Purse let me know! The market is full of them.  I’m going to try to sign up for some shore excursions too (i.e. parasailing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, etc…).  They are actually free for me!  Just have to book them and make sure the time of the excursion corresponds with time I have off from work.  Unfortunately though, the one excursion that still costs us is swimming with the dolphins.  But that would still be awesome so maybe some day I will splurge.  Tomorrow I have the ever so famous 10 hour shift…with no breaks.  8 to 6.  I’ll be able to eat, I just eat with the kids.  So it’s really not that bad.  And tomorrow is Late Night in Nassau!  So a few of us are going to try to get off the boat early and go out to a nice dinner and bar somewhere in Nassau.  Maybe at Atlantis?  Who knows.  No one plans anything in advanced here by the way.  We don’t get our schedules until the night before.  So I didn’t know my schedule for tomorrow until I got off work tonight.  Then during the day we make tentative plans like - "Hey, Hot tub on Deck 10 tonight?” “sure, maybe.”  And then you just wait until you get off to see what happens.  I don’t mind, it’s just the way things are here. 

But I’m heading off now I think, it’s late and I need to sleep.  But to sum things up, the people here are amazing, the locations we go to are great, the kids are a blast and ship life is quite different but also really fun.  I’ll write more later…Cheers!

First picture: Carnival (I think) on the left.  Disney Wonder (my ship) on the right.

Second picture: STARBUCKS!!!

Third picture: An alley in Nassau

Here are a few pictures from Castaway Cay, Disney’s own private island in the Bahamas.  First two are obviously me and the ship, then the last is a picture of the private beach just for crew members.  It’s awesome, it has volleyball courts, bbq food, hammocks, and more! (click on pictures to make them larger).  Oh, and I do plan to upload more, I have more, but they are large in size so I have to reduce them…in a day or two I will go around and take pictures of all my work areas.

Yesterday we were in port at Cape Canaveral and luckily one of my coworkers has a car here!  So we went to walmart and the mall, and of course, IHOP.  I was then able to pull out some cash to use on board to buy an internet card.  So now I have access to the internet when I want, until the balance runs out.  I bought a $20 card, which uses ten cents a minute.  But I really won’t be on much – just to check email and update the blog.  When I have time I will upload some pictures.  Currently we are docked at Nassau and I actually have 5 hours off or so today in the afternoon to go explore.  So I’m just waiting for her to clock out and change then we’re heading ashore.  Other than Castaway Cay this will be my first time on a public Bahamian island!

But things are going great!  We just finished lunch with our Training Officer.  We had it at one of the restaurants onboard and it was delicious!  We ate at Tritons which is a semi-formal French style cuisine.  I had some training earlier this morning and have to be back at work at 6 and work until 12:00am. I will write more later, but for now I’m going to take a quick nap.  We were up until about 2:15am last night for a team building exercise…It was basically the two different Youth Activities groups versus each other in a ship-wide capture the flag type game…it was awesome.   Cheers!

Well I’m sitting here nestled into my new room.  Currently we are anchored in Nassau in The Bahamas.  I’ve only been outside once though, out on the private crew deck, to take a look around.  We’ve been busy with training for the most part.  Before we could use any electrical appliances we had to have them approved by their on board electricians…thus, why I am on my laptop now and not before.  Everything I had was approved with no problems.  The room has 4 outlets, two in the bathroom and two in the bedroom so I think I might buy a strip for the bedroom so I can have more stuff plugged in at once.  Luckily, most of my electronics can charge via the laptop too. 

But things have been great here, some current cast members I’ve talked to talk about how bad training is, but honestly, I don’t mind it at all.  I think it’s because I’ve been through a lot of training before with many previous jobs?  Or maybe it’s because I am only one day 2 on the ship (although we had a few days in Orlando of training/traditions as well).

I’ve got to make this short because in a few minutes my training group and I are meeting up on Deck 1 to go receive a tour of the Engine Control Room and then have training for our positions after.  But a quick note- I do have access to the internet; that is, if I buy a $20 internet card, which I might…not sure.  I will have internet when I’m in port at Cape Canaveral so I might just logon and do all my email and post updating then?  I don’t know, it is tempting to go buy a card though.  We’ll see…I just don’t want to be in front of the computer when I have an entire cruise ship to explore!  Ok, gotta go, Cheers!

It’s hard to believe that in just a couple more hours I will be landing in Orlando and ready to start my new career working for the mouse.  Currently we are somewhere over the United States…not sure where.  I’m flying Delta and they seem to be a little out-dated compared to other air companies I’ve flown with.  They are currently showing the movie The Life of Bee’s on one of the 5 TV Monitors hanging down on the aisle.  I was spoiled on my flights to/from France/Africa, as we had TV’s in front of us on every seat that were interactive when you touched them – enabling you to change channels, movies, and play games.  Oh well, thankfully I have my laptop, zune and book for entertainment.  This girl I know recommended I read “Under The Banner of Heaven.”  So far it’s really good, but also pretty creepy and gross.  What’s it about you may ask?  The Church of LDS (i.e. Mormons), but it primarily discusses the extreme fundamentalist mormons (FLDS). These are the ones that still practice polygamy and such.  It’s a sad book because quite frankly, everything in it is about how girls are mistreated and how it’s a “guys religion.”  Ironically, I just had a layover in Salt Lake City.

But yes, it is true, I am finally on my way (literally) to Florida finally.  I don’t know if it’s hit me yet though…I mean, I know I am on my way, but I’ve never even seen the cruise ship before or been on any cruise.  I’ve worked with Disney before, I’ve worked with kids before, and I have sailed on a yacht in Tahiti…so I suppose I blend all those together in a grande scale and voila!  The flight captain just announced that we are actually ahead of schedule by 10 minutes, so we’ll be arriving in Orlando at 4:20.  I figure I’ll make it to the hotel by 6, grab dinner (I’m starving), and maybe head to downtown disney. 

I had a great visit in Bend for the last few months.  Made a ton of great new friends that I hope can come visit and had many great “adventures” around Central Oregon.  It was so nice also to spend so much time with my Parents – although they are complete Dorks, I can openly and honestly say that I wouldn’t them any other way.  I’m not exactly sure when the next time I’ll be in Bend will be…could be in 18 weeks, or could be in a year or two.  Just depends on what doors open with this new career. 

I’m really not sure what to write and I feel like I’m just rambling.  I really just want to kill time and do something while sitting here in my tiny little airplane seat.  I’ve been lucky though on the previous flight and this flight.  On the previous flight I had no one next to me and on this flight I have a little boy who’s probably 7 years old and is plugged into watching Scooby Doo on his I-pod.  He makes these seats look huge, so I can take up most of the elbow room.  He did almost fall asleep leaning on my shoulder however…oh well, kids are kids.  I thought Lunch would be served on this flight too, but it’s only if you want to fork over like $12 for a deli sandwich on stale bread.  I’ll just starve myself and get greasy food at the hotel.  I feel like I’m kind of coming full circle with disney world too because my very first visit with my family years ago we stayed at the All Star Music Resort, and now I am employed by disney world and that is where they are putting me for Traditions for a few nights. 

I was sitting here thinking about flying and what I would change if I could.  First, when I checked in I was 2lb’s over the limit and that would’ve cost me an additional $80 on top of the already paid baggage cost of $15.  So, I simply removed the 3.5lb' white tennis shoes I got for disney and moved them to my carry-on.  But what if they charged by pound?  If $15 is what it costs for a piece of luggage up to 50lb’s that is 30 cents a pound.  That way it rewards the people for packing light…Or why not maybe make it a little higher so it encourages people to pack lighter and then remove the $80 fine for going over 50lb’s?  I just think they could do something more efficient about this situation.  The other thing I was thinking about was having power for laptops and such while flying.  We are traveling at 400mph through the air, why not have some type of wind-powered electricity conductor on the plane that could generate power for us?  I’m no engineer, but it seems possible to me.  I did see a sign at the airport that some airlines are now offering internet wi-fi on some flights…I’m sure it’s extremely expensive and is paid by the minute, but a laptop’s life expectancy without external power is now only about an hour or so…Well imagine business man Bob on a trip from Oregon to Florida, air time of approximately 6-7 hours, uses internet for one hour, laptop dies and then no more income via internet for airline companies.  Now install Eric’s new wind-mill for airplanes device, it keeps his laptop charged, allows him to then purchase more minutes and facebook all his friends online.  It’s a win-win situation.  I have a few other ideas, but they’re pretty unrealistic – hot tubs, guitar hero, and a bed, if not a bed then maybe one of those beds that are on the wall like astronauts sleep in, but have an anesthesiologist available for those (like me) who find it impossible to sleep on planes to assist. 

I just adjusted the clock on my computer so if I’m correct it is 1:40pm in Orlando…and if we are scheduled to arrive at 4:20pm that means I still have 2 hours and 40 minutes left…UGH!  And my laptop has 62% of the battery remaining.  I would hate to live at wherever we’re flying over right now….miles and miles of farmland as far as the eye can see.  I see a small little city, probably with a bar or two where all the locals gather to talk about their crops and complain about the crows and economy.

They are selling mini shots of alcohol and such on the plane, I could always buy 5 or 6 of those to help make time go by quicker.  But I have a feeling that stumbling into the Disney World Resort for my new job as a Youth Activities counselor reeking of Booze wouldn’t be a wise decision. The terminal next to my Orlando flight was heading to Cancun, on that plane you could get away with that.  I was daydreaming in my head while waiting for my flight on ways to get on the Cancun plane and just find a hut on the beach that I could live in and somehow make substantial amounts of money by doing nothing…It was a pleasant daydream. 

Alright, well I think I am done rambling and will probably use the remaining 52% battery life on Mah-Jong or Solitaire.  I’m not on a flight that has Internet and I wouldn’t want to spend the money on it anyways, so I’m just saving this post and uploading it when I have access – so yes I am currently on the plane, but no I am not online and this won’t be posted until I’m off the plane.  Best of luck to all my friends in Bend, I wish the best for you guys and miss you all!

UPDATE:  The Captain said good and bad news…Bad news – we are heading into a storm so expect bumpiness…Good news – we have a new arrival time of 3:45!  35 minutes difference from original, we must be hauling!

Well it decided to snow here again.  It’s been practically snowing here non-stop since last night.  3 inches so far it looks like, so not too bad.  However, now I’m snowed in because my car is not at all equipped to drive in this weather.  I drive a V8 Mustang GT that is also lowered an inch and a half.  I took a few pictures as well because as much as I can’t wait for the tropics I’m sure there will be a day or two where I wish it was a little bit cooler…so these pictures may help.

Anyone that knows me real well knows that I care tremendously about our two dogs Eli & Ozzy.  Eli is about 11 and Ozzy is almost 2, and they are both Golden Retrievers.  Right now Eli is laying on my bed with a t-shirt on because he just had surgery to remove some bumps…the t-shirt prevents him from licking his wounds rather than the giant cone.  During the day when I am at home with nothing to do I typically just hang out with the dogs and take them on walks occasionally and play with them outside.  They are my entertainment and I don’t know how I’ll cope on the ship without seeing them every day.  I did see a photo album somewhere online, can’t remember where, that was of one of the Disney ships and there was a golden retriever on board.  I’m guessing it was a therapy dog.  Ozzy is in training to become a therapy dog so that makes me wonder if he gets certified then could he come on the ship when my parents come to visit?  Something I’ll be sure to check on!  Below is a picture of the two dogs sitting so kindly with Santa.  It took about 5 minutes to snap a picture and 2 seconds for them to pull Santa off of his seat and onto the ground.  One second after this picture was taken one of the helpers decided it would be a great idea to bang on a huge lid from a storage bin to try to get the dogs attention and look up.  Oh boy was he in for a surprise.  The dogs bolted forward with Santa hanging tightly onto their collars.  A Crowd of about 10 were watching, all laughed, and Santa was on the floor.  I thought the whole scene was spectacular.  In the picture you can see the personalities of the dogs coming out…Eli (on the right) looks scared to death and wants nothing to do with this while Ozzy could care less and well…who knows what’s going on in his head, probably humming a song.  

So I was skimming through the New York Times today and came across another article in relation to Toxins in your body - “Flush Those Toxins! Eh, Not So Fast.”  In my opinion, I think it’s bogus.  Toxins exist, yes, and they do get into your body.  But from what I have read elsewhere it seems as if our kidney, liver, and other components of our digestive system do a great job removing them themselves.  All the “results” that I ever hear people claim from these detoxifying diets are an increase in energy and just “feeling” better.  My explanation – Placebo.  It also seems obvious that when you drink a mixture of water, lemon juice, cayanne pepper and maple syrup and avoiding fast food, fatty foods, oils, then no shi*t are you going to lose weight.  I suppose if it makes one feel better then who am I to say not to do it as long as it has no adverse negative side effects – which I think as science studies these fad diets more we may find some.  I also have to admit, I did become a sucker and try a very small detox diet.  This consisted of drinking two glasses juice with Psyllium mixed in a day.  All this did was make my stomach grumble and complain.  Did I feel any different, no.  But I did “feel” like I was doing something healthy so therefore I noticed I wanted to trick myself into actually thinking I was healthier. Anyways, I just felt like putting in my two cents.

-UPDATE-

Read this article if you’re interested - “Experts warn of detox diet dangers”

The Sounds!  Looking for a new album to download to expand your i-tunes library?  Well then check out The Sounds. A week or two ago a buddy of mine had some fellow travelers come to town whom he met while backpacking Southeast Asia.  Two of the guys are Finnish and told me to check this group out.  I did, I liked it, so I’m telling you to.  Their Myspace page has easily playable songs so go there to listen!

So if you didn’t already read what I just posted earlier today…I was quite bored earlier and was writing a book and movie review for what I’m currently engulfing myself with when I succumb to my boredom. But, I was using Bloggers online post editor and I accidently deleted everything I wrote…this was about an hour after writing…so, I am here, comfortable on my couch listening to Pyotr Il’yich Tchaikovsky attempting to do it again.

I have massive amounts of free time now, and I fill this time by doing a variety of fun activities.  Mostly reading, hanging out with friends playing with the dogs or playing Wii.  I know, I’m awesome.  So here you have my take on some of the books out there that you should possibly check out.

Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell – To be honest, I thought this book was going to be different.  It was still a great and informative read but I thought it would tap more into almost a “self-help.”  Meaning educate how to take control of this unconscious thinking of the first few seconds of thought and use it to our full potential.  I suppose this could be due to the fact that it is subconscious.  But Malcolm Gladwell is a brilliant author who has a wealth of information regarding human motivation and the power of though.  I recently watched a video of a presentation he did on TED, it’s titled “What We Can Learn From Spaghetti Sauce.”  Entertaining discussion, worth checking out.  I would have to say my favorite chapter was when he discussed marketing trends and what Pepsi learned (remember the Pepsi Challenge?).  It does get a little dry in the middle, but other than that a great informative read with many examples to help make his statements valid.

The End of Faith: Religion, Terror, and the Future of Reason by Sam Harris – I encourage theists and non-theists both to read this book.  However with one word of caution – make sure you have a dictionary available.  Sam Harris is a very articulate author and must have excelled in English & Grammar.  This is a book where you will need to read over paragraphs multiple times to finally understand the point Mr. Harris is trying to make.  But he does make some very bold claims which he then, in my opinion, efficiently backs up with sufficient evidence and logic.  The book discusses whether or not Religion is necessary in our society but also goes one step further and discusses the possible threat it may have on our society if we do not change our current ways.  Religion is a hot topic but I do encourage again both believers and non-believers to check it out.  Though this book can be quite “wordy” any other book by Richard Dawkins or Christopher Hitchens would also be a great read for someone interested in Religion in society, such as Dawkin’s book The God Delusion.

The Voyage of the Beagle: Charles Darwin's Journal of Researches by Charles Darwin – Amazing.  You have to be a total science nerd to really enjoy this book.  the vocabulary can get quite scientific so may be difficult to read for some.  But I am astonished that at the age of 23 Charles Darwin started a 5 year exploration trip around the world to study animal & plant species as well as geology of the planet that has never been studied before.  Darwin is quite articulate and can make a sea of floating bacteria seem incredibly interesting.  Most people know Darwin for his Theory of Evolution from The Origin of Species.  But this book is primarily focused on all his new discoveries while exploring in regards to plants, animals, geology and human life/culture.  I also find it fascinating how much of a “liberal” he was for his time.  Examples of this include him being opposed to slavery and questioning the literal truth of the bible (i.e. world being 6,000 years old and such).  Anyone who wants to explore the world in the early 1800’s from the viewpoint of an eager & excited young scientist should definitely read this book.

Creating Magic: 10 Common Sense Leadership Strategies from a Life at Disney by Lee Cockerell – I’ve really only just begun reading this book.  I think I’m literally on page 20.  However, I already know I am going to thoroughly enjoy this book.  Thus far I can relate to 95% of what Mr. Cockerell is referring to due to the fact that I have worked for the Mouse in Walt Disney World and have seen his leadership strategies at work first-hand.  With the new doors opening for me with the company I hope this book becomes extremely useful and I can gain a lot of insight on how to successfully manage myself as well as others.  Definitely an easy read compared to the two previous books I mentioned.  As I read more I’ll update.

The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World by Eric Weiner – I just bought this book yesterday.  I haven’t read any reviews or have heard of this book prior to when I purchased it.  All I know is that it’s about a guy who travels the world and writes about what happiness means to the different cultures he experiences.  Is it good?  Not sure.  I’ll find out.

SAS Survival Handbook: How to Survive in the Wild, in Any Climate, on Land or at Sea by John Lofty Wiseman – Ok, so I bought this for my Africa trip.  I never really had to refer to it.  It was more of an entertaining bedside reader.  Want to learn how to make a rabbit trap?  Survive on a raft in the ocean?  Learn what plants are poisonous?  Heal sunburns with natural ingredients?  This book has it!  I did do some extensive research however before purchasing it.  I wanted to buy the best Survival book out there and all recommendations online & in person directed me to this book. 

Why People Believe Weird Things: Pseudoscience, Superstition, and Other Confusions of Our Time by Michael Shermer – I have yet to start reading this book as well.  I am a fan of Michael Shermer and the research he has done.  A year or two ago he also visited OSU to debate the widely known Dinesh D’souza (Dinesh partly blames 9/11 on liberals) and I was there to witness…it was an intense debate titled, if I remember correctly, “Does Religion Matter.”  But as far as I know this book will enlighten me on why people believe “weird things” such as alien abduction, near-death experiences, psychics, recovered memories, and denial of the Holocaust and hopefully making a justifiable and/or scientific explanation of why.

Go Put Your Strengths to Work: 6 Powerful Steps to Achieve Outstanding Performance by Marcus Buckingham – I received this book as a Christmas present from my mother who always wants to see the best in me.  I read a few pages and it looks quite useful and informative.  From what I read in the first few pages it seems like the author says (in my terms) “screw your weaknesses, but focus on your strengths.”  Not too sure, but I’ll find out.  I think Oprah recommended this book – my mom will do/buy anything Oprah tells her to.

Rick Steves' Europe Through the Back Door 2009 by Rick Steves – Before I knew I was going to work for the Disney Cruise Line I had a very high potential opportunity to go live and work in France.  I would’ve done that for a few months, got paid decently and then use my salary to go backpack other parts of Europe.  My plan hasn’t changed too much other than the fact that instead of France I’ll be on a Cruise Ship for 18 weeks and then for my 6 week vacation go backpack somewhere exciting and new (as my salary allows).  Again, this book was a Christmas present from the parents and I am extremely glad they bought this for me because each time I look at it it reminds me of my goal – to see and learn about our world.  If you aren’t familiar with Rick Steve’s you should become familiar with him.  His travel guides seem to be more personable than others and touches on many subjects that I think a lot of guides miss out on – like, how do you use some of those crazy restrooms you can find in Europe?

Well, those are the books currently on my bookshelf.  It seems as if every time I visit the local Barnes & Noble I pickup one or two more so I’m sure it will easily expand in the next month.  However, I’m not too sure how much time I will have to read while on the ship.  I’m sure working 70 hour weeks will drain me.  But I’m sure I’ll come across an afternoon off at Castaway Cay where I can go to the private crew member beach, sit back in the sand and catch up on some much needed reading.  Cheers!

I took this picture a couple days ago.  We had some thick fog here recently and this is what it does to the trees.

So I just downloaded Windows Live Writer for Vista so I have that as well instead of using Bloggers online post updater.  But I’ll write my reviews soon.  Still frustrated.  Salut.

So...I've been sitting here typing away for nearly an hour. I've been reviewing the books I am currently reading and planning to read. When all of a sudden I double click on a word to copy it and then I accidently click the right mouse button (or something of the sorts). Basically, what this does is go back, or forward, can't remember. So I LOST IT ALL!!! I seriously had a good post going to, tons of links, tons of information, my own critique and UGH! All gone! So, instead, this post will be a question - What is a good blog posting program to use that won't mess the Frick up! I thought bloggers posting website automatically saves your blogs too...but apparently not. I know that Windows 7 comes with Windows Writer which I have linked up to my Blog...but right now I'm logged in on Vista. Anyways, I'm frustrated and I will write my reviews of my books in the next day or two, so be patient, but for now I'm frustrated. Cheers.

So my new shoes arrived for the job.  They’re insanely white and must weigh 10 pounds.  My legs are going to be steal by the end of my first 18 week contract.  Ooh, that might be a good idea, wonder if it’s that beneficial to wear those leg weights while I work for an hour or two?  Wonder if those actually help your calf muscles grow or even maybe help with a little cardio?  Not too sure, I’ll check into it.  I’m writing this blog entry using Microsoft’s Windows Live Writer…it came with the new Windows 7 Beta release and I like it.  Makes everything so much easier.  Don’t see any reason why I shouldn’t be posting more…. If you have yet to see the movie “Marley & Me,” then you MUST go see it!  Especially if you’re a dog owner or group up around dogs.  Such a great epic film!  But also note, you should definitely bring tissue.  I think 99% of the people there were in tears.  I also think tomorrow I am going to go see “The Unborn” with M.  It looks extremely scary, should get my heart rate up.  But according to M’s sources it actually IS a really good plot (or something of the like).  I’ll do my own review of it tomorrow or something. Yesterday one of my buddies came into town who I haven’t seen in a while.  D was a great friend of mine from way back in the Fraternity days.  He now seems like he is doing well off in his career and I applaud him for that.  It was fun to reminisce about life back in my early college days…glad I had those experiences but also glad I was able to move on.  Alright, well I’m off to go find dinner.  Cheers!  (oh, and below you will find a map of the area I’ll be living in soon…mainly just put it on here because it’s a feature you can do on this blog editor, so just messing around).

I received a phone call Friday from the wonderful person who has been a primary contact for the DCL for me. It was just to confirm everything and to see if I had any further questions. He also told me what ship I will be on which is exciting! I will be on the Disney Wonder...this is the ship that focuses on the smaller 3 and 4 day bahama and cast-a-way cay cruises. I really have no preference as to which ship I would be on...granted the Magic does go to the Carribean, but the Wonder does go to Cast-A-Way cay more often. I looked at the itinerary and it looks as if they schedule the 3 and 4 day cruises alternating...meaning right after a 4 day cruise would follow a 3 day, then following the 3 day would be a 4 day. I also received a little more detail regarding Traditions. For those of you who have never worked at Disney World - Traditions is an intro to the company course required for every cast member. But according to the DCL the traditions I will be going through will be different then the one I went through before because it's for the DCL. So I fly in on a Wednesday, go to my hotel then relax because the next two days will be all Traditions (with nights free to roam the parks I believe). Then on Saturday I was told is a free day to do whatever I like...most likely go to Epcot or the MK. Lastly, on Sunday I will board my ship and be shown my new home and take off on a cruise that night. Totally excited. The only bummer news I was told however, was that I couldn't necessarily arrive early...well, I could, but I would have to pay for my own travel arrangements then. But if I let Disney take care of it all then they pay for all my air fare and hotel. I'm sure it's a liability thing where if I was to arrive a week early and I turned up missing or something then they may be held accountable? I'm not too sure, but I have a hunch that I will have plenty of opportunities to go visit the parks in the coming year or two (most likely during my 6 week vacation). Which reminds me, I'm not sure if I mentioned it in a previous post but I'm on an 18 week contract with 6 week vacation time in-between...my plan for vacation - travel the world! We'll see though.

So now I relax in Bend, maybe try to go up to Mt. Bachelor and Ski or Snowboard or even Sled. We had a foot of snow here in town around christmas but it has since melted away...which is nice for me because now I can drive my car again. I think I also need to find more stuff to write about in this...like Rants & Raves. Currently it seems to be only about my adventure in applying for my disney job and such. I should start writing about topics that interest me as well (rather than just myself, ha). Maybe I'll do that my next post. But as for now I am going to go relax and eat some dinner. Cheers!

(I give credit to flickrized for the photo used on this post, I think it's awesome!)

Well, I'm hired! I can now, I guess, say that I am again a Walt Disney Cast Member...er, "Crew" Member actually. I received the email stating that my medical screening passed and I am now complete with the hiring process. All I do now is wait for my recruiter to contact me regarding my departure date. Hopefully that'll be within a week or so. Another cool perk is that Disney is purchasing my plane ticket from Oregon to Florida. I also asked if I could arrive a week or so early so I could visit old friends and have fun in the parks and thankfully they said it would be ok - and they would still purchase the ticket, but obviously not pay for the hotel or anything. Figured I would need a vacation even before my hectic cruise ship life, haha. Now I just need to start asking around for a couch to crash on and see if anyone can help with park tickets. Makes me wonder what kind of pass I get for the parks while working for the DCL? I know Cast Members at wdw get a Main Gate, wonder if I'll get the same or just tickets or what...?

I don't feel like I have too much to do to prepare for my trip too, which is nice. Sell my car maybe? But other than that just pack. Banking stuff shouldn't be a problem since the primary port is in Florida and I'll have access to the internet and such. Don't have to close any utility bills or move out of a rental house or anything. But I do have to buy a pair of all white tennis shoes. I made a generous amount of extra cash this month in commission from work so I decided to splurge and buy a new laptop for the trip as well. I can only imagine how small my room is going to be and I really wouldn't want to lug my desktop with me just so it can take up 80% of the space in my room. Let's see, what else...Oh, I got my new passport. I thought I lost my old one in Africa so I reported it to the Passport people in the states and ordered a new one. Well, no kidding, the day I received my new passport (and after spending $100 for it) I found my old one hiding in an envelope in a random PeaceCorps folder. Oh well. I suppose that if Disney asked if I could leave in a week, I technically could. For all I know they might? But I kind of doubt it. It'll most likely be January I think if the rumors are correct. Alright, happy thanksgiving everyone, take care!

So I received a phone call this morning letting me know I have a Doctors appointment this week to get my physical done for the DCL. So close to being done with the hiring process! As far as I know, it's the last step! I just wish I had my official date of departure, then I feel like it would be official. It really hasn't hit me yet that I will be leaving soon to go live on a cruise ship in the Bahamas/Carribean. I mean, I talk about it a lot and I think about it a lot, but I don't FEEL like I am REALLY doing it. At random times I do, but it's not consistant. I think that as soon as I get my official date then it will hit me. Or maybe it won't hit me until I am stepping on the plane. Which reminds me, when I do leave I will be leaving snow & ice here in Central Oregon and an 8 hour flight later arrive in sunny Florida. Awesome!

So I am not going to go into much detail about the other topic of this post - "Jail Time." But in brief, almost 6 months ago I was jumped by two people and sent to the Emergency Room - and yes, literally jumped without any type of warning. Well, finally the two people who did this are in Jail. They also have an 18 month probation where they aren't allowed to drink. They have also had to pay for my restitution and other court fee's and fines. What's interesting is that the Benton County Jail puts their inmate roster online with a picture (i.e. mug shot) of all their inmates. Just do a google search for Benton County Oregon, go to their site, then browse to the Sheriff's department and the Correctional Facility then Inmate Roster. It's public information. I will post a link soon, the computer I am on is too slow to try and open up another browser window. It does feel like a huge weight has lifted off my shoulder though with this all being done and over with. But now I'm signing off. Cheers.

The DCL called me up yesterday to let me know that the results from my drug screening came in and well, I don't do drugs. So that means I'm off to the next step - The Medical Screening (aka a physical). So now I wait until that appointment comes, then wait 5-7 business days for Disney to take a look at the results and they let me know again if I passed or not. I really don't see why I won't, the PeaceCorp's physicals were quite extreme and I passed those no problem. So after the med. screening I just wait until they give me a departure date. I have been talking to one person who has served 2 contracts on the DCL as a Youth Activities Counselor and she has been a wealth of advise. Just gets me more excited to leave. I'm looking forward to so much over there but will miss a lot here in Bend (and won't miss some as mentioned in my previous post). But I will miss some of the new and "renewed" friendships I have made here in Bend over the last few months. It was great to be able to show T around and glad he moved to Bend and wish him the best of luck with his new job. C is going to do a kickass job bull riding next year in the rodea I'm sure while he teaches K a tip or two. And of course, R, who has been great to hang out with although she is indecisive and at times, confusing as hell. Those are just a few but I'll miss everyone. This just gives everyone an excuse to come visit me in the Bahamas. Cheers!

Well, I'm hired! The Disney Cruise Line (DCL) wants me to become a Youth Activities Counselor (YAC) on board one of their ships! I am in the middle of the hiring process which takes some time. I had to do a drug screening Friday as well as fax off a few documents and reapply for a passport (my old passport is lost in Africa). But after they receive the results from my background check and drug screening I then will move on and do the Medical Screening, assuming my background check and drug screen comes back clean - which they should. My position as a Youth Activities Counselor will be filled with a variety of activities & duties - but all in all making the ship a fun and safe environment for the kids on board. Have a pirate training camp where Captain Hook comes to interrupt one day and dressing up like a mad scientist and making flubber the next...I think there are somewhere around 150 activities they do. So I will also living on board obviously in a room no bigger than my closet...oh, and having a roomate in that space too, and a bathroom/shower. I'm not sure how that is possible, but I'll find out. I won't mind too much because as far as I am concerned you spend 95% of your time working and then just sleeping...oh, or at the Crew bar or crew pool. It's a 70 hour work week as well. I am definitely excited though to also meet the other crew members aboard the ship. After reading blogs, forums and facebook profiles about the ship I've learned that their may be days when work isn't as fun or you may be stressed for whatever reason, tired as hell, and sick of the repetition of the food menu, but it's the people you work with who become your new family and support you in ways you won't believe.

I'm looking forward to all of it and wish I could leave tomorrow! It'll be a nice change of pace from Bend....don't get me wrong, Bend is a great place but it seems to be black-hole that sucks you in. I don't know if anyone should live here between the ages of 19 and 28. If you do you should have a kid and be married. As for being a single 25 year old male here...eh, it's kind of not what I was expecting. It's as if no one can find anything else to do other than go to the same bar every weekend. I totally got sucked in for a bit, but now I am tired of it. Bend is a great city with a lot of fun and unique opportunities that occur every weekend if you just look for them and are willing to step out of the "normal" routine of The Summit or Boondocks or wherever else you find yourself every Friday and/or Saturday nights. I was talking to my buddy T yesterday about all of this and he agreed - so him and I are on a new mission to find something fun/crazy and different to do every weekend rather than always end up at the Summit. I mean, there is more to life to enjoy than just drinking and hitting up the bar scene. While I was in Corvallis the last few years I finally realized that and I loved it, but Bend (the black-hole) sucked me back into it damnit because it seems like that's the only thing people my age do here. So if any Bendonians are reading this that I know and want to join me in my revolt to repititive weekends send me a message and join the crusade! And just to clarify, I know that not everyone my age is in this black-hole, just the majority of people I have met thus far living here. Ok, I'm done with my rant about the Bend scene...

So if all goes well with my hiring process it looks like I will be leaving within the next 3 months. The nice guy who interviewed me mentioned January. I'll be sure to post an official date when I receive one myself. But I really can't explain how excited I am to be doing this. *Warning, Cheesy stuff coming up.* So when I worked at DisneyWorld I always got a huge smile from seeing a little boy or girls face light up when they saw Mickey, Goofy, Jasmin, Chip & Dale, or whoever. Kids enjoy the little things in life and I think a lot of people lose focus of that. I want to help put the smiles on their face and create those everlasting memories. Put quite simplistically - I want to create happiness. That is what makes me happy. Anyone who knows me knows that I am one to very rarely get mad or upset - life is too short for that. So I'll just spread my cheesy happiness across the globe, haha. This will also be a crash-course training as well for when I finally have a kid or two...if I can handle a room of 160 kids I should be able to handle raising one or two...right?

So to sum this post all up - I got a job on a cruise ship in the bahamas/carribean, there are parts to Bend I will miss but also will not miss, and I want to put a smile on everyones face. Cheers!

So, big news today!  I had a phone interview today with the Disney Cruise Line.  What started off as a semi-formal interview ended in everyday conversation - which typically is a good sign.  I feel it went Great!  It was about 20 minutes of interview questions and then 20 minutes of just talking about "whatever."  The interviewer was a great guy and I hope to talk with him again sometime.  So, he'll now be emailing me an official application which I will then fax back and he said after I fax it back to him I'll know within a week whether or not I have the position or not.  So, everybody cross your fingers for me!  So, now since this is all making progress I'll tell you more about it...The position I'm applying for is primarily a Youth Counselor position.  Assisting in running the youth activities on board and occasionally on one of the islands (mainly cast-away cay).  I have the option of applying for another position - Rec. Staff.  This position would be lifeguarding the pool 50% of the time and selling tours and assisting in a variety of other programs the remainder of the time.  Both seem great but I think I'm going to follow up with the Youth Counseling position first.  If I get the position I would, I believe, start in January and be on a 4 or 6 month contract.  I would also be working 70+ hour work weeks!  But hey, what else are you going to do when you're on a cruise ship?  Right?  Hey, the email just arrived with the official application.  Time to go fill it out!  Cheers!

Clever and awesome name right? "Workout with your book out."  This week starts my work out and reading marathon.  Just need to figure out what my goals should be.  My overall general goal is to workout more and read more insightful and educating books.  So, why not kill two birds with one stone and read while I do my cardio, duh?  I just bought my first book today - Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking.  It's by the same Author who wrote The Tipping Point.  So far it's real interesting.  Maybe I'll write up a review when I'm done reading it.  But wish me luck and we'll see if I can actually commit myself to this.  Oh, and because some other people I know are doing the One Hundred Pushup Challenge I decided I might give it a go as well.  I think I might have a good start on it though because I've also been trying to take advantage of the Wii Fit as much as I can and I'm not doing too shabby on the pushup challenge on that game...well, I mean, I increased my count from being able to only do 15 to 35 in just like two weeks.  And Wii Fit kicks my ass because you have to go at their pace, which seems painfully slow!  But yeah, we'll see what happens!  Washboard abs, huge biceps, and feeling strong & healthy - here I come!  Right on!  Cheers!

I encourage everyone to watch the two documentaries found on this website. Watch it with an open mind but also a skeptical mind. I recommend watching "Zeitgeist, The Movie" (scroll down on website) first and then "Zeitgeist: Addendum."

So through some clever networking I was able to get in touch with a woman who has some significant amount of experience at wdw and who works quite high up in the ranks apparently. So with some help from her my name and resume are now floating around internally at wdw (Walt Disney World) as well as within the wdw cruise line. Now I sit back and wait.

So through some clever networking I was able to get in touch with an old friend who has worked at a youth camp in France and seems like he has made a good impression and connection with that particular company. So with some help from him (thank you my friend) I hope to potentially pursue this option. I will be mailing off my application packet this week since my criminal history check finally came back a couple days ago from the State (clean, of course!). Now I sit back and wait.

So, what exactly are some of my rough draft plans/goals with either of these positions? Well, if I go to wdw then I will work my way towards management and try my best to get into their Health sector. Or if I go thru the wdw cruise line: sail around working massive amounts of hours while gaining some unimaginable experiences working aboard in one of the positions I am applying for. This would be a ~6 month contract at a time position. We shall see.

If I go to France then I will work for a youth camp doing great things for French students as well as brushing up on my French language & cultural education. This is a ~3 or ~4 month contract and paid, so after the contract ends I would then continue and backpack Europe for as long as my finances allow...I'm guessing around 3 months.

Either one of these options sound like a great adventure to me. If both are offered to me then it will be an extremely difficult decision as to which one I should pick. But, as I said above, for now I sit back and wait.

New Look and new feel to it. First, Yes, I am back from Africa. My original plan was to stay there for 2 years - however plans changed for a variety of reasons. I still think the PC is an amazing program that does a wonderful job in developing countries and applaud anyone who applies and volunteers for this amazing organization.

So I unfortunately do not have the job I had before I left for Africa but I've got some pretty "freakin' awesome" plans in the works. Two options are tempting me:

1) Travel the Carribean, Bahama's, and possibly Meditteranean via Cruise Ship (working on board).

2) Work in France for 3-4 months then backpack the rest of Europe for another 3-4 months.

Through networking I know that either one of these options are tangible, and I did leave out a ton of detail about my options - just because nothing is set in stone quite yet. But I have a strong feeling that I'll be heading to Europe. I'll know for sure in the next month or so which option it'll be. Who knows maybe it'll eventually be both!

But as of now, this blog will be used for whatever the heck I want to use it for. Write whatever I want about whatever I want. Except, nothing more tonight, I'm tired and heading to bed. Cheers!

Well, I am now located in the capitol of Benin Porto Novo. Sorry if there are errosr in this post, totally not used to the french keyboards yet. But I am at a cyber cafe just checkin up on things. I am living with q very friendly and hospitable host family. Papa is a retired bike cop and has two sons and two daughters. I have a room and living room. Outside my sleeping room is the outside stove so it always smells like smoke and qbout 83 degrees no mqtter the time of day. I have to take bucket showers and use a latrine and get my water from the well in the courtyard. Not too bad really. But since the culture is different here I get served a MASSIVE amount of food that I can never finish, and its always served by one of the wome and I either eat alone or with papa...Occasionally with my host brother too. But they are excited to have me stay and laugh at my goofy american ways...Or stop me before eating with my left hand. Silverware is optional here. But the cyber cafe is at a plqce ze meet at every tuesday and costs 250CFA per hour...which is about 50 cents. Butmy time is about up now so I will update more later. If you want ,e to write to you send me your address. Au Revoir!

Back at the PC Office briefly so I thought I would update the blog. Today went on a walking tour of the city of Cotonou. Went through the market, down to the beach and went to the most expensive store in the city for tissue. Tissue is basically the clothe that is used to make the clothing here. This place was selling tissue for 35000 CFA on average...so I saw tissue ranging from $100 - $300 a yard. But this type of cost is RARE here. Yesterday I bought a pineapple (freshest pineapple EVER) from a lady who was balancing about 25 of them on her head on a plate and it cost about 25 cents and she even cut it up for you. Also had a small bag of these pastry like donuts for about 8 cents. But yeah, it's not bad. Tomorrow is the day we leave St. Jean's and go to Porto Novo to meet our host families. I'm excited. But as for now, I've got to make this update a brief one because there is a line of 7 other volunteers behind me wanting to check their emails. I'll haev more time later this month hopefully. Salut!

Well, I'm in Africa! Right now sitting on the 3rd floor of the PC office in Cotonou. Had to get typhoon shots, my bike, and take a language exam. Next I'm off to go wander around the surrounding neighborhood to buy fresh pineapple off of a woman's head. But it's amazing here! I can tell that it's going to be an amazing experience here! We are currently staying at a hostel surrounded by palm tree's and enjoying showers and toilettes...not heated showers, but doesn't matter when it's 85 at night. Then in a few days I'm off to Porto Novo to go visit and start living with my host family. I've got to make this short because everyone is waiting to use the computers here. But I'll update this again once I have access. Au revoir!

Well, I made it to Philly! I'm in the hotel room right now, and they have nice computers in all the rooms with free internet. I actually didn't know until today, although I arrived yesterday. But yeah, I arrived yesterday at about 4:30 and met two other PCV's at the airport. Granted, I never met anyone in person before...but it was actually incredibly easy to spot a PeaceCorps Volunteer. Just look for the over-stuffed travel backpack and hiking sandals of some sort - keen's, teva's, chaco's, etc...One of the volunteers actually spotted me first right after I claimed my baggage, she comes up to me and asks "PeaceCorps?" Yes, it's that obvious. Then another girl spotted the both of us and came up and asked "PeaceCorps?"

All in all about 9 of us arrived (that we know about) last night and 7 of us went out and explored Philadelphia for a bit. Unfortunately by the time we took the subway to the historic downtown district everything was closed and I forgot my camera anyways - sorry Dad, didn't see the Liberty Bell or Decleration of Indipendence...but did see Liberty Hall from the outside. But we wandered the streets of Philadelphia for an hour or two until we decided to grab some food. I was surprised how small the streets here are though. Barely enough for two cars to get by. After I had my chinese food dinner we got back on the Subway and headed back to the hotel, but as we were walking we saw a Bar right across the street from our place and a few of us decided to go there for a cold beer. It's really nice just to sit back with other future PCV's and express our feelings/concerns/etc... We all talk about what we're anxious for and not looking forward to. Everyone is awesome though to say the least. All excited and looking forward to most of it.

Today we're checking in at 1:00 then will be busy doing some orientation until 7 then I'm sure another group of us will go off and find a bar or restaurant. Oh! The best part about this hotel though is that their is a starbucks about a one minute walk away! So I woke up at around 7:30 this morning with my hotel roomate and we both went there and sat down and enjoyed a bagel and coffee. I will try to update this blog one last time before I leave - depending on how much free time I have...but who knows when I will be able to update it again once I leave for Africa at 6:30 on Thursday. We'll see! Au Revoir!

So, two weeks! It's been a while since I've wrote on this thing. I've just been so busy with...well...everything. It's my last week at my amazing job this week, so it's starting to get a little sad. This week is also saying goodbye to all my Corvallis OSU friends, because this Saturday I'm moving back to Bend to spend time with my family before I go.

But I have all my flight arrangements made and leave at 5:15am on the 30th for Philly! Never been, but I will be on a quest for the best Philly Cheese Steak. But then on July 3rd the group of us all fly out at 6:30pm! Just a little 14 hour flight.

This is just a short update, I've been packing most the day and cleaning so I feel like I need to relax and shower now. Bon soir!

Well, again, another Post not really related to PeaceCorps. But tomorrow I am heading to the Fairgrounds in Albany to go see Barack Obama! Getting there a few hours before the doors open to get good seats, but also, a coworker of mine has a really good friend who works with him for his Campaign in Chicago and she is going to see if she can pull some strings for my friend and I. We'll see what happens. I was reading one blog, can't remember which one (sorry) from Benin, and they mentioned that George Bush stopped in Benin and some of the volunteers got to meet him. So, I'm hoping that when Barack is president (notice, it's not IF) that he will tour Africa and stop in Benin then I will get a chance to visit with him. We'll see, I'll cross my fingers. But anyways, I'm tired and have to work early tomorrow and finish up a posterboard regarding smoking for some health fair I'm presenting at Oregon State University. Did you know that an hour long Hookah smoking session is equal to smoking 100+ cigarettes? Yeah, crazy. Ok, Bonne nuit!

Well, my b-day is coming up this weekend and I was thinking of all the cool things I want. But I also have to be realistic. And well, on the top of the list is underwear. I need underwear that will last me a good year or two. So, If you are looking to buy undies that will go to a good cause - send them my way! Grey boxer briefs please, I'm a waist size 32 - something like this, or similar. But other things on my list include a nice travel compass, a leatherman, two Nalgene Bottles, Sturdy flashlight, short-wave radio or World Space radio, a watch, travel towel (quick drying), Electrical adapter for Benin Africa, Yoga Mat or Therm-a-rest (to sleep on), travel pillow, Tea Tree Oil, Spices for cooking, a Travel coffee maker (french press or something of the like), can opener, potato peeler, knife sharpener with knife.

As you noticed I posted links to some of these items, just to give everyone an idea of what these may look like. Granted most of my links go to a particular part of the REI website, a lot of these items can be purchased elsewhere too. But yeah, I also hope this helps the other Benin PCV's heading out with me on July 1st. I know we are all kind of clueless as to what exactly to pack in our bags. But there ya have it! Au revoir!

Quick update...I went home to visit some friends and the family this last weekend and also picked up a backpack & clothes! My birthday is just around the corner so I was treated very nicely by my family at REI & Helly Hansen! This is the backpack I got, The Osprey Argon 85 Series. It's amazing! I also got a great deal on some quick-dry light-weight outdoor pants at REI as well as some quick-dry and well-ventelated shirts from Helly Hansen. Oh! I also got a really nice pair of Keen's (like Teevo's). They are on sale right now, so if you're also looking for a pair both the men's and women's pairs can be found Here.

I'm really starting to get excited now and everything seems to be coming together for this experience. It's also great that I am able to chat with other volunteers who are either going or are already in Benin. We're all so nervous and clueless as to what to expect. So who wants to go explore the Voodoo Market with me? And remember, Kevin- we're supposed to check out what it would take to Canoe down the river or around the lagoons, as long as we stay clear of the hippo's and gators.

Lastly, if anyone has any comments, suggestions, or anything about this Blog let me know. What do you like, don't like, etc...Au revoir!

Ok, I know this has nothing to do with Africa or PeaceCorps, but I found it online line off of one of the many nerdy blogs I read from the NY Times and such that I just wanted to share some of these amazing graphs. The blog that contains the rest can be found here. Seriously, freakin' hilarious and genius! They are created by Jessica Hagy and she actually has a book out full of these. Here are a few I liked, enjoy...

Well, here we are at April 27th. Just about 2 months until I get on that plane and head on out for the adventure of my life. There are now about 7 or 8 of us that are in contact with one another who all have the July 1st departure date. Other volunteers have also contacted me who are actually currently in Benin - a few of the PCV's that are actually going to be meeting us at the airport in Benin. How awesome. Everyone is so willing to exchange information and answer questions and be of any assistance. It's great. I think that I need to update my want/need list as well. I posted it a while ago and I need to make some changes. For example I think I'll wait for the solar charger, because it seems that the odds of living in a house with electricity might be in my favor. I've been finding deals online every once in a while that I take advantage of to help prep as well. I found a pair of awesome Spy (the brand not the type) sunglasses for $15 - originally $100. I also was able to find a nice 21 LED lit headlamp for $5 and that included shipping! For anyone else who is looking for some good deals check out www.slickdeals.net. Just browse their forums and you can find a ton of great stuff.

My zune (mp3 player) has about 800 albums on it and is still only about 65% full, so please, I need help finding new artists to download to fill it! Or even a movie or two! But it has to be a movie that I will not get sick of for 2 years! So leave a comment with any suggestions.

So - to the other volunteers who are leaving on July 1st with me...are any of you feeling a little overwhelmed? But in a good exciting way? I haven't quite come to grasp that in 2 months I'll be flying over to flippin' Africa and living in an entirely different way! I learn about Benin, I do my language lessons, I try to get everything ready for the trip, but It hasn't quite hit me I don't think. It's a nervous excitement I'm feeling and I'm curious as to how all you others are feeling as well.

Thanks to the current volunteers in Benin who have been helping us all too! Whether it's advice on packing (teflon frying pan's and such) or just adjusting to the culture/lifestyle, it's all great and I think I can speak for us all "newbies" that we truly appreciate it. I'm sure it's going to be great fun for you to see us getting off the plane, wide-eyed and excited not knowing at all what to expect.

With 2 months to go I need to start focusing on what exactly I need to do for the trip. So with that said, for my own sake I am going to make a quick checklist, for everyone else this will be completely useless to read. But I'm a visual person and need to see it so I know and maybe feel a little less overwhelmed...

Find someone to replace me in my house - Done!Sell my car - will start posting at the end of May, if not sold by the time I leave I hope my parents can help, but if anyone is interested in buying a 96' mustang GT v8 4.6L with some body work and exhaust work done to it, let me know! Backpack - my birthday wish and will hopefully shop for one at REI in Eugene or Bend, whichever has the best selectionPay off credit card - Ummm...I hate debt, it seems to never go away!Pack -I live minimally already so don't have much and will store everything in my parents garage (thanks!) Say Goodbye to everyone - Planning a trip to Portland, Bend and elsewhere, so I think I'm good, I want to see everyone I know before I go!Apprenez à parler français (Learn to speak french) - already have experience but taking the Rosetta Stone program PC is paying for. Current Job - I put in my letter of resignation last week and they are all sad to see me to go but also are very excited. My official last day is Friday, June 20th. But with work, I have a TON to do in the next few weeks because a couple of the programs I've created are finally being implemented!!! YAY! Anything else I'm forgetting?

Well, that helped me, and now if you read this far - you know now too. But I'm going to go relax for a bit. I've been "busy" the last two days - went to two of the OSU vs. Arizona baseball games, we won the series! Oh, on a sidenote, I do have to encourage that everyone needs to check out the documentary Sand and Sorrow, it's about Darfur and one of the best ones I've seen so far. Check out the hbo website for it here or the official website for it here (may be a little graphic). From the HBO website: "Ten years after the genocide in Rwanda, another tragic story of inhumanity is unfolding in another African nation. As a bloody byproduct of the ongoing civil war in Sudan, hundreds of thousands of native Sudanese have died, while millions more have been forcibly displaced from their homes and land in the western region of Darfur by their own government. Executive produced and narrated by George Clooney, and directed by Peabody Award winner Paul Freedman, SAND AND SORROW journeys into the heart of the crisis in Darfur." Another graphic but educating documentary worth checking out is The Greatest Silence: Rape In The Congo. Here's a quick blurb about it: "Today, in the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo, rape is taking place on a scale that is almost unimaginable. In the last ten years, hundreds of thousands of women and girls have been raped - but their suffering goes unacknowledged. Instead, they are invisible, shamed and mute. This is the story of one filmmaker's crusade to break the silence surrounding this shocking reality, armed with a firsthand connection with the women and men she meets. Winner of a Special Jury Prize (Documentary) at this year's Sundance Film Festival." I know, not the happiest topics, but definitely very important! Educate yourself!

Sorry this post was so random and had no format, but I type what I want - so just deal with it. Au revior!

Added links to the blogs of other Benin PCV's who are heading out on July 1st on the right. Also added my address and important information regarding writing me while I'm in Benin (also on the right of the page). I'll write more later. Salut!

So, it seems like every 3 or 4 days that pass I get a message or email or comment left on my blog by someone new who is also going to be leaving for Benin on July 1st. So, if it is alright with everyone, here is a link to some of the other Benin Blogs for us July 1st people:

http://jessunderafricanskies.blogspot.com/

http://revolutionme.blogspot.com/

http://morganabroad.blogspot.com/

There are also two other girls who will be leaving for Benin as well. If you are reading this, and are also going to Benin, then check-out the facebook group "Peace Corps: I'm being sent to Africa." Also, if for some reason you don't want me to post a link to your blog, just let me know and I can remove it.

Another girl, Laura, did message me who is actually over in Benin right now, and she will be one of the 8 volunteers who will be meeting the new group at the airport when we arrive and helping us for the first 2 weeks of transitioning. If you're also leaving for Benin then email me at EricOSU@gmail.com and I can give you her email as she is willing to answer any questions we may have. I did ask a few questions about packing and here is some good info:

Guys- pack some conservative shorts. Girls -dont bother. Guys in Benin can get away with the cargo shorts around/below the knee and youll be thankful you have them in the heat. My guy postmates wear them all the time and they dont ring any cultural taboos. For girls -you go out in shorts, major faux pas.

Medical supplies took up half of one of my suitcases -wasted space. They give you a medical kit when you get here so dont run out and buy pepto,bandaids, etc... now b/c you get all that in country.

DO get - a couple neosporins, GOOD sunscreen -like SPF 100 cause its HOT:), good bugspray, and anything specific you need medically. Just ask me -ill tell you if you need it. Wear glasses/contacts? Contact solution is totally unavailable and PCVs get it shipped in all the time -bring a few extra bottles and actual contact stuff if you need that.

Umbrella or light rain coat is nice in rainy season which is from June-Sept.

Little teflon nonstick frying pan -just trust me. They dont exist here and if you like to cook, then yes its worth the space in your suitcase. If you hate cooking, then dont worry about it. I curse not having one when I'm cooking eggs or pasta.

It sounds stupid, but bring some crystal light packets or koolaid -anything to put in water for the first few months. Bring just a few comfort things foodwise to help you in the first few weeks as well. Its hard at first to adjust to the food and guys have trouble getting protein. You'll probably think a little bag of your favorite snack is heaven after a few weeks! :)

Sorry if I haven't gotten back to you if you've either left a comment or messaged me via email or facebook, I've been crazy busy with work so I haven't been on too much. But I hope this helps connect us all! Au revoir!

Just for my own information I need to jot down some items in which I want/need for Benin. Some of these items are fairly easy and cheap to obtain, others are more expensive and require more "homework." But after reading through enough blogs of current volunteers I've come up with this list...and I will most likely add to this list, so as of now it will probably be small but grow with time.

Backpack! A nice backpack with about 5,000 cu. inches. Internal Frame. I heard Osprey and Eagle Creak are good brands. This Osprey bag looks pretty cool, except it doesn't have an unattachable daypack like this Eagle Creek bag . But I heard I should NEVER buy a backpack before physically trying it on myself and looking at it. Over the two I just posted, I would choose the Eagle Creek. Any thoughts? Leatherman! I have a handy dandy Micra Leatherman which I use all the time around the house...however, it's small. I need a good sturdy leatherman that can be used for anything!Underwear! They say bring enough for your two year trip! Pants - more specifically light khaki's that dry fast.short-sleeve button-down work Shirts - light shirts that dry fast...oh and darker in color because then dirt won't show up on them as much as lighter colored clothing. A small photo album with pictures of family/friends/etc...A small address book/notebookA journalA safe can openerTeva's...I have a pair of nice nike sandals, with the straps and all, but I heard Teva's are also good to have. Anyways, that's all I can think of for now. I will update this list from time to time. I've been wondering if I need to bring a solar power charger for my zune and my future digital camera but I think I might wait until I get over there to my Post to see if I'll have electricity or not. According to this blog, most volunteers in Benin are placed in areas with electricity. So I might just save $100 and wait until I get over there to know for sure. Alright, time for dinner. Je suis tres faim! Au Revoir!