Wow! It's hard to tell where to begin. Apologize for not keeping my Blog up. Short answer, could not get on the internet, which is still very slow. Welcome to Kwaj time; try to catch up but know it is boring not having the pictures to share. Before I start I'm reminded about the guy who moved up north—loved the snow and weather but by the end of the season hated it, you be the judge as the year progresses.
After a 5 ½ hour plane trip from HI, dropped out of the sky through the clouds and into a tropical paradise. Coming in low over the ocean, clear the beach and there is the runway. OMG the bright blue waves crashing in over the reef, the smell of the salt in the air along with all the blooms from the trees, big palm trees, everyone you met is friendly!
OK, the job is tough. They postponed my training session so I'm hanging out with Joe, who retired from Tyler. He is showing me the ropes while I also try and take care of all the business of moving in. Wednesday the big task of the shift was going to the school and supervising a couple of 5th grade school girls' work as crossing guards, as the kids break for lunch. They did a good job in blocking a couple of bicyclist for a second or two while the other kids pulled out and drove past on their bikes. Oh, we also retired the colors for the evening. (For the enjoyment of a couple of Cpls. that I trained, still on TPD, we have silver and gold badges & I have the silver badge).
I went to the Kwajalein Scuba Club meeting and paid the yearly dues. (Attention TPD Dive Team members; the big topic of safety discussion was properly anchoring your boat!) Did an orientation (night!) dive that included a wreck dive. Can now use as many tanks as I want (have to find more dive buddies!) but will have to find a trailer for my bicycle to haul the gear. It is hard enough to balance the gear in my backpack but the tank it is almost impossible.
The trade winds are strong now. Great for sailing but absolutely destroys metal with that salty wind! Tried to make do with a loaner bicycle, when I tried to remove a bolt, it fell apart. The rear tire wobbled but the spokes were so rusted out the wheel could not be trued. Decided that it was worth the cost and bought me a new bike. Something I would not have thought to ridden even less bought in the states; a "girls" 3 speed. It's the really hot bike here!
Several of the guys here already have their local boat license; I will not be able to get one till June. We rented one to the B-boats (with twin 115 hp) and went to Bigje Island (which is just south of Meik) for some snorkeling and exploring.
Starting to real enjoy my daily runs, continue to increase distance. Somehow running next to the ocean with crashing wave after wave next to you, is very inspiring!
Started two weeks of training today; got to shoot the pistol, shotgun and rifle. Should know what position and shift I will work soon.
