On "Cream Cheese" and "Giggles"

or How Nicknames Stick

In the last month, I have acquired a number of nicknames. I wish I could say they came about due to my great skill and expertise - names like "gunfighter" or "fast-track" - but no, they have more to do with my weaknesses. =( One of the driving instructors commented on how much I laugh. I didn't say a whole lot during the driving classes because what was there to say? I did laugh a lot though, usually at my own mistakes or those of my classmates. Anyway, during the night vision driving, I was definitely more giggly than usual (I would like to blame it on lack of sleep). Well, the instuctor began calling me "Giggles," not just to me, but even over the radio so all the instructors could hear. The name caught on and I became "Giggles" during driving classes.

The following week, during linguist training, I greeted a man (role player), whom we were interrogating, with a "good morning, how are you?" Although he replied in another language, I knew he was not just wishing me a good morning, but when I asked our translator, she said "he says good morning too." After the class was over, and I was talking to the aforementioned role player and translator, I asked what was really said at that point. The guy seemed reluctant to answer, but the girl told me he said "good morning, cream cheese" (or what would be the equivalent of "hi, sweetie pie"). He tried to explain himself by telling me that that would have the response of any guy in his country if they saw a cute girl, then went on to say that they love blondes. This all took place in front of many of my male classmates, who found this quite amusing and continue to call me "Cream Cheese" (BTW, did I mention that the role player was a VERY good-looking, well-built man?!). The guys have gotten a LOT of milage out of that one! =)

The gas chamber

I have to admit, I expected it to be a LOT worse. I had to get over my claustrophobia and get the gas mask on my face, but once that was accomplished, the rest was quite simple. We walked into the rather small shed with the mask in place. Once in, the doors were closed and a gas capsul was opened over a flame. The instructor made us hold our breath, close our eyes and break the seal of the mask. After that we cleared and resealed our masks and were allowed to leave. The gas did make my eyes water a little and created somewhat of a burning sensation on any exposed skin, but overall, it was pretty easy (disappointingly so). I know the military guys have to actually take the mask off and talk, making the whole experience much worse. As much as I HATE pain and generally avoid it at all costs, I guess I just wanted to see what it is they go through (I don't know, maybe it's morbid curiosity). Anyway, that is the extent of my gas chamber experience. I'm sorry it was not more exciting.

So, I'm going home...

Out of 19 people, I think I am the only one disappointed to be moving out of this hotel and going back to real life (you know, the kind with real responsibilities). I've enjoyed this past month of no cleaning, cooking, or really much of anything but playing big people versions of little kid games. On the other hand, I am VERY much looking forward to getting back to my peeps. It feels like FOREVER since I've seen all my dear family and friends. There are so many pictures and stories to share with you all. I can't wait! =) Just a few more days...

I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old
So I'm going home.
Well I'm going home.

The miles are getting longer, it seems,
The closer I get to you.
I've not always been the best friend for you.
But your love, remains true.
And I don't know why.
You always seem to give me another try.

Be careful what you wish for,
'Cause you just might get it all.
You just might get it all,
And then some you don't want.
Be careful what you wish for,
'Cause you just might get it all.
You just might get it all, yeah.

Oh, well I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old.
I said these places and these faces are getting old.
So I'm going home.
I'm going home.
~ Chris Daughtry

Theme verse for my life (for now, anyway)

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
~ Psalm 4:8