Back on land

So we pulled out Tuesday evening, along with the rest of the 2nd Fleet, to dodge the hurricane as it made it's way up the coast. Straight due East at high speed for 2 days, then turned around and headed back in our tracks. Being out at sea again was fun- I was one of a handful of people not to develop any kind of seasickness. I'd heard stories that carriers could get rocking good and strong, but never thought they'd move like smaller ships do...At the worst part of the storm swells, we were rolling about 10- 15 degrees and pitching maybe 5 or 6. For a ship that displaces 90,000 tons, that's unheard of. We pulled back in this morning, and I was VERY relieved to get home and see that everything was still intact- the neighbors had some branches fall in their yard, but the house and cars were untouched. Power came back this morning, so we're throwing a party for all of our friends who don't have cold beer and hot food at home, so they don't feel so bad. I know a lot of people I know weren't as fortunate as we were when it came to the storm; my buddy Clark had a tree land in his living room, and another friend of mine has a tree on her roof. And that's not even including all those in the area whose houses or apartments are flooded....Please keep all of those affected by the storms in your prayers- it'll take a while before life is fully back to normal.

On another note, one of my good friends from high school, Mike Rudasill, just left for Kuwait City 2 days ago to take part in Operation Iraqui Freedom. I fear for him and his safety, and pray that he returns safely.....too many people have already died over there, and too many more are still dying because our president is an idiot who is only interested in serving his own ends. Please keep him in your prayers as well.

On yet another note, I think it's about time I got a usericon or two up here....after all it's only been two years since I started this thing. Anybody know how to go about doing that, or at least help me get started?