BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia

Subject: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 17 May 08 - 11:41 AM

Because of a professional engagement abroad, our friend CET (Edmund) may not be visiting this forum as frequently or contributing as fully as has for lo, this long time. He will be as safe as an adult can be, spending most of his time in a large military installation, and I expect him back in early December.

He took a large iPod stuffed with all manner of songs, including a heck of a lot of sea shantys that he can listen to without having to put up with my wincing.

This deployment is a welcome opportunity, and he prepared himself with care and determination all through the winter. We had a pre-embarkation treat of a trip to New York City for the Metropolitan Opera and a Broadway show, followed by a weekend of music with folkie friends in New England. Then we came home, I got over my cold (no, it wasn't allergies) and he packed. On Friday -- yesterday, that is -- we had a nice, quiet three-hour drive to Trenton and I handed him over to the air movements people at 8 Wing. That's it until his mid-tour leave.

The house is remarkably empty of large items of military luggage and odd camouflage-patterned items lying around in inappropriate places -- note to file, all you military folks out there, the dining room table is not the place to leave your new holster, and your spouse will get very tired of stepping over and/or around the inevitable heap of boots.

So it's six months of coffee for one ...

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Jeri
Date: 17 May 08 - 12:00 PM

They never let me take a gun home, but boots were a traffic hazard. I still have a pair of desert boots under the bed, but they're so far in the spiders would fight me for them.

There IS a song in this... sending lawyers to et cetera.   I hope he has time to post once in a while. We'll certainly be thinking of him, and of you.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: curmudgeon
Date: 17 May 08 - 12:04 PM

It was great to see you both last weekend. I lfted a pint to Edmund's safe journey at last night's Press Room session, and we will send a shanty his way this afternoon -- Tom & Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 17 May 08 - 01:10 PM

Godspeed Edmund. Take care. And, thanks.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 17 May 08 - 05:14 PM

Same here. Take care and come home before ya know it, safely that is!

Charmion, surely you will have more than just coffee? *just teasing* Sounds as though you had a lovely weekend and are being quite sensible about things.

ATB,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Bill D
Date: 17 May 08 - 05:45 PM

Well! Such an experience... I do hope he learns interesting stuff and comes home safely. Technology does allow folks to keep in contact during these forays. I trust YOU will hear regularly, and I hope WE will if possible.

So...is Getaway possible for you?

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Amos
Date: 17 May 08 - 06:04 PM

Charmion,

I hope you don't have to fend off too many salivating Casanovas, and that you have plenty to do to keep your heart full and your smile in place until Edmund gets back.

Very best to both of you until reunion is...


A

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: artbrooks
Date: 17 May 08 - 07:02 PM

Knock wood, and all that stuff.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: ranger1
Date: 17 May 08 - 07:04 PM

Stay safe, Edmund. Stay sane, Charmion.
Tami

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Peace
Date: 17 May 08 - 07:05 PM

Ditto the above posts and sentiments.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 17 May 08 - 09:34 PM

Charmion, you and Edmund will be remembered daily, especially in Hardi's private prayers. If you get a chance for a visit, please come!

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 18 May 08 - 07:25 PM

Charmion,
Sorry I can't say anything light and humorous. When I think of Edmund I think of him walking Seamus along Bonny Bank Terrace and that damn dog was marching in time with his head held high. That and Sam Hall.
I keep both of you in my prayers and hope we can celebrate New Years together safe and healthy,
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Escapee
Date: 18 May 08 - 10:22 PM

My son's advice when he went to Baghdad was " Don't watch the news." Thanks for serving, Edmond, and God keep you both.
SKP

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Beer
Date: 18 May 08 - 10:50 PM

Charmion, you are certainly welcomed back to our new festival (www.applehollowmusicfest.org)as it was a pleasure meeting both of you last year. Give my best to Edmund for me. Sorry I didn't get the chance to sit down and have a long chat with you both but as an organizer I hope you understand.
Adrien

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 19 May 08 - 01:57 PM

Charmion,

Time to start another new instrument, my girl. Or start and volunteer to maintain a permathread in some area of musical interest-- they're a lot of fun. I offer the Spirituals permathread as one model.

Edmund will want to come back to find you sane and happy. Use Mudcat as you like to be sure of it, OK? And stay close.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,Seiri Omaar
Date: 19 May 08 - 09:58 PM

Best to you both. I'll be thinking of you, especially once Goderich Celtic Fest rolls around...
~Sarah Crocker

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 19 May 08 - 10:25 PM

Hey, Sarah -- I'm planning to go to Goderich this year, and if Edmund can get his mid-tour leave that early he will come too. I'll see you there.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: catspaw49
Date: 19 May 08 - 10:53 PM

Be back to us safe and sound and as others have said, keep us as informed as possible.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 May 08 - 11:18 PM

That's one helluva way to de-clutter, Charmion. We were talking about stuff, not folks. . . ;-)

My best to the both of you and the various ways you find to communicate during this separation.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,Charmion's brother Andrew
Date: 23 May 08 - 12:47 PM

Don't worry, Charmion, your baby brother will look out for you.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 27 May 08 - 09:59 PM

Folks:

Thank you all for your kind messages. I am on the ground, and thanks to the U.S. Army's morale and welfare organization, able to log on to Mudcat via the Internet Cafe. I have a good crew of American JAG officers to work with. My immediate boss is a guitar playing Marine JAG lieutenant-colonel, who seems to take an interest in my peculiar musical predilections. I expect there will be some good conversations in the office. Unfortunately, he doesn't have his guitar with him.

Cheers.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 27 May 08 - 10:21 PM

Wow, thanks for connecting with us, Edmund! Stay safe and happy pickin'!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 27 May 08 - 11:20 PM

Air guitar!

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 02 Jun 08 - 11:09 PM

I have just enjoyed a little bit of cultural cognitive dissonance. A TV on the camp was tuned to a local Afghan station and a rather sappy video of people walking around in a park was showing. The background music was ... the pride of Stratford, Ontario, Loreena McKennit.

The Canadian I have replaced here gave me a Stan Rogers CD, Home in Halifax, before he left. I was looking forward to listening to it, but since I have a copy of my own back home I gave it to our interpreter.

What's next on the Canadian cultural campaign in Afghanistan? Stompin' Tom Connors? The Red Green Show? Trailer Park Boys?

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Jun 08 - 08:10 AM

More likely, Shatner and Terrence and Phil.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 03 Jun 08 - 08:14 AM

Good to hear from you! Read the news today about the wounded... stay safe eh!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Rapparee
Date: 03 Jun 08 - 10:06 PM

Keep your head down, don't volunteer, and if they tell you to go outside the wire tell them that JAGs simply don't do that sort of thing. If they insist, tell them that specifically YOU don't do that sort of thing.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Jun 08 - 10:26 PM

Oh Edmund!-- hello-for-next time! :~)

Atticus wants to go out and play; the birdies are calling him. Since the trees out front blew down, the back bushes are FULL of nests right outside the south window. He escapes.

I'm thinking of getting him a cage so he can see them up close, or maybe we'll just open the window and make sure the screen fastened in is nice and tight. (Gotta keep him off that road you know.)

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 04 Jun 08 - 06:42 AM

Best wishes to you both!

Someone get that man a guitar, willya?

As a former (long-ago) Navy wife, I get the 6-month thing. A little better now that you can stay in touch? I remember waiting for ships to pull into docks to tie up to phone lines, and for the number to spread among the wives... funny story there, I'll come back and tell it later...

Anyway. Stretch out, luxuriate in taking up the WHOLE bed, and keep in touch.

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 04 Jun 08 - 07:07 AM

No chance of taking up the WHOLE bed, not with Bill the 18-pound tomcat in residence. In fact, I have trouble retaining sovereignty over my pillow.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Greg B
Date: 04 Jun 08 - 09:44 PM

Damned war.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jun 08 - 10:52 PM

Good to *see* you here at the Mudcat. Stay safe!

kat

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 05 Jun 08 - 10:26 AM

Back in the day (before cell phones, internet, etc) there were letters, and if you were really lucky, expensive phone calls in port.

So, there was always this race to spread the phone number around when a ship tied up to the pier overseas, so everyone could call their guy.

Once (I think they were somewhere in Italy? Med, anyway) someone got the phone number wrong, and drove some poor woman buggy. Her phone rang day and night with lonely women trying to track down their men. She got tired of trying to fix the unfixable, and took to answering them: "no, he can't come to the phone right now. He's got my #$&@ in his mouth."

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 11 Jun 08 - 12:51 PM

Thanks to the combined efficency of Charmion and the U.S. Postal Service I got a very nice care package today, mailed from Michigan where Charmion attended banjo camp last weekend.

I have met some very good guitar players. We also have a well attended karaoke night once a week (this is pretty spartan, but it's no forward operating base). The playlist is rather short on Child ballads and sea shantys, but it does have Pancho and Lefty, complete with a video.

I am learning to speak U.S. Army American: "working the (fill in the blank) piece", "that's not in my lane", "going to chow". Working for a Marine is an experience in itself. I find that I definitely like working with Americans in uniform, although the bureaucracy is even more rigid than ours.

I also find that I appreciate Mudcat more than ever. It's a real life line.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 11 Jun 08 - 01:51 PM

It's great to read your posts. Take care.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Amos
Date: 11 Jun 08 - 04:04 PM

Edmund:

So glad to hear from you, pal. The Marines need the bright fresh breath of up-country attitude around there; you should get a service medal for providing it.

Come home soon, come home safe.

Write to the Martin Company, and the Taylor boys and L'Arriveeistas, and ask them to each donate ten decent guitars to the war effort. Offer to act as a neutral distributor.

We'll be hooting all night long in no timer!


A

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Susan A-R
Date: 11 Jun 08 - 08:54 PM

Charmion and Edmund, I promise that I shall salt, sand, shovel and do all other such S things to my driveway at the tail end of next Decmeber. Just be there, both of you.

Charmion,I know about those cats. How is it that someone who I outweigh easily 10 to 1 manages to get the middle/diagonal of the bed.

Take care, both of you.

Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 08:02 AM

Edmund,
Is there anything you and your buddies would like from Maine? I promise to stay out if the Christmas tree Shop.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 12:32 PM

Well, some good local Maine beer would be nice, but illegal, and not practical to ship anyway.

I could do without any tiny nun dolls, just in case you were considering sending me some.

It's always a treat to get mail, but I can't think of any specific thing that I want. Maybe some pictures from your next song circle.

Cheers

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 04:25 PM

Hi Edmund,and Charmion, Greetings from The London(not that hole in Ontario) hope things are Ok, and not too SNAFUed, keep well, hope to see you sometime soon, remember only the military can really do a FUBAR well
Micca

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 04:38 PM

But then you can always look at those as AFGOs ala Bat Goddess (I think it was told me about them:) Another F***ing Growth Opportunity!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: ranger1
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 07:15 PM

OK, so tiny little nuns are out. How about glow-in-the-dark plastic Marys? Inflatable moose heads? Anything at all? Best make a serious request before we get bored and decide your living quarters need redecorating...

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 07:29 PM

heh heh
Be afraid. Be very afraid.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 19 Jun 08 - 07:36 PM

what do I care if it rains or freezes
as long as I've got my plastic Jesus
riding on the dash of my SUV
I dont care if Mohammeds about
Jesus He has much more clout
he'll surround me with divinity

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Jun 08 - 08:28 AM

Right...AFGO came from me. Handy bit of terminology. I stole it from Jeff Lind, great bass and tuba player and maker of fine furniture.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Jun 08 - 08:29 AM

So, Edmund, what's the beer like there? Or are you stuck with American swill?

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 20 Jun 08 - 10:52 AM

The "beer" is de-alcoholized Becks. How to describe it? Try to imagine marinating unwashed turnips in Kool-Aid and then boiling the juice for a few days. The U.S. Army, alas, is dry wherever it deploys, unlike the Europeans down the road at ISAF Headquarters.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Barry Finn
Date: 02 Jul 08 - 09:24 PM

Just saw this thread for he 1st time. Hope all is well with you. So I guess this means that you won't make the Portsmouth Maritime festival either, you'll have to just make up for lost time when you get back. Good luck & God speed


All my best
Barry


This is the 4th time I've tried to reply & post this with no luck. What's up with that?

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 02 Jul 08 - 09:47 PM

You're just giving double lucks and God speeds, Barry!

Edmund, that is a very imaginative description and it sounds AWFUL!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST
Date: 02 Jul 08 - 09:57 PM

A reminder of a wonderfully fun song from our own Alaska Mike:

(with love from Dani as I throw back a Saranac ale in your name)


Back In The Clydesdale
by Mike Campbell 2004

I went to the bar after working all day,
And ordered a dark Guinness Beer.
But the Yuppies were chatting so thick on their cell phones,
I guess the barman did not hear.
He brought me a glass and a tall boy of Bud,
And set them down in front of me,
Well I coughed and I sputtered in pure disbelief,
And sang out this chorus with glee.

OOOOO
Put that Budweiser back in the Clydesdale,
Its not the right flavor for me.
The color's all wrong and there's not enough foam,
And its got all the kick of weak tea.
Now pour me a pint of that good Guinness Stout,
With color you cannot see through.
Put that Budweiser back in the Clydesdale, boys,
And pour me a beer that is true.

Then the waitress came by when I'd finished my first one,
An angry young woman named Jill,
She snatched up my empty without even looking,
And went off to find a refill.
Then she brought back a glass of some pale liquid garbage,
And said, "Here's the Bud you asked for."
Well I gave her a glare that would knock down a horse,
And sang out this chorus once more.

Chorus

So if ever you're seeking a beer with good flavor,
To finish your day or your meal.
If they serve you a Millers, a Coors or a Bud,
Or some other brand that ain't real,
If the "King of Beers" is the only selection,
I hope that you'll answer like this,
Put that Budweiser back in the Clydesdale, boys,
I won't drink twelve ounces of that lousy beer.

Chorus

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Big Mick
Date: 02 Jul 08 - 10:54 PM

I hope you got to bring along that bottle I gave you at Indian Neck, my friend.   I think of you often, sound a note on the old Low D in your name, and pray for a safe return to Charmion for you. I look forward to sharing some brew pub ales at our next meet.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Nancy King
Date: 03 Jul 08 - 11:11 AM

Yikes! I'd missed this thread entirely until Jeri pointed me to it when I wondered why Edmund wouldn't be at the Getaway.

Well, Jeez, Edmund, I guess "Have a good time" is probably not the most realistic of wishes, so I'll just say "Stay safe! We'll be thinking of you! Come back as soon as you can!"

Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 03 Jul 08 - 01:26 PM

Sorry, Mick; that bottle of Laph is sitting on the shelf in our kitchen in Ottawa waiting for better days.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 03 Jul 08 - 01:38 PM

Well poop, I only just found out that this thread referred to Edmund.
Have a good tour of duty my friend, hide the kilt, the Scots have a fearsome reputation out there, and you may be mistaken for one of us. Better than being mistaken for one of those I suppose ;)
Charmion, mind out for the caffeine.

G

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Jul 08 - 08:01 PM

Geez, Charmion, I'll be right up!

(Then again, considering the swill masquerading as beer that Edmund is stuck with, perhaps it's best to save the Laphroaig intact for his return!)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 03 Jul 08 - 11:53 PM

The PX sells de-alcoholized Lowenbrau, which is not as bad as the Becks.

No chance of me wearing my kilt, Giok. The Americans already think I'm eccentric. God knows what conclusions they would come to if I started wearing a kilt, particularly since I wear one of the Welsh tartans, Thomas of Wales, which is bright enough to keep small birds away from your crops. My long mustache is enough to make me stand out in the crowd.

Thanks for all the good thoughts and wishes. I look forward to singing with you all next year, inshallah.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 12:25 AM

Like THIS?. Bright, but at least it doesn't have yellow and green in it; those can get really garish er...bright!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 04:36 AM

kat, it is EXACTLY like that!!!!, Edmund, stay saaafe, and we will enjoy a sherbet or two (of your choice)nxt time we meet, I'm buying, I have some 18 yo Highland Park, suitable? or maybe we should break out the Penderyn?(introduced to me by another Canadian, now living in Wales)

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Megan L
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 04:40 AM

Lassie jist whits wrang wie Yellow in a tartan us Barclays are proud oh oor custard

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 04:57 AM

"Available in Welsh Tartan Fabric"??? I should THINK so!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 08:29 AM

Ah, Megandarlin'...custard might be okay..it's when it get mixed with jello lime green with all kinds of broad and skinny lines running through it that it tends to be a bit bilious!**bg**

My tastes run to the more subdued hues of the Hudsons or Crawfords.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 09:06 AM

If you follow this link and scroll down to the McDuck (Yes,Donald Ducks uuUncle Scrooge McDuck and it is a real Tartan registered by Disney with the correct tartan register in Scotland) and put your sunglasses on!!!, I think Geoff would look.......Great???? eccentric???? weird?... or maybe just Ducky in this.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 09:36 AM

18 year old Highland Park suitable? You bet! But why would you put it in sherbet?

I am trying to imagine Geoff in a kilt. I think I need to go to a dark room and lie down for a while with a wet cloth on my head.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 11:13 AM

Hallo Edmund! We're off on vacation in a few short weeks.

Your Sens stole our favorite player-- Jarkko Ruutu! :~(


Still praying,

~Susan & Greg

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 04 Jul 08 - 12:48 PM

So, Edmund, I will see what I can do about "saving" you some, so was RK Right? about the thirst?
Ship me somewhere's east of Suez, where the best is like the worst,
Where there aren't no Ten Commandments an' a man can raise a thirst;

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 05 Jul 08 - 09:33 AM

It's definitely thirsty country here, but I think RK was thinking of a place where a man could have as many beers as he wanted without fear of social pressure, which is definitely not Kabul.

I had an interesting experience today, trying to explain Canadian cuisine to an Afghan general, one of the people our office mentors. We were having a working lunch, and he asked me what was the typical food of Canada, and I was caught at a loss. Then I tried to explain poutine. I first encountered poutine in 1985, when I was studying in Quebec, and I had a hard time believing that such a thing existed, so imagine me trying to convey the concept through a translator into Dari.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 05 Jul 08 - 12:12 PM

Edmund, I have had someone try to explain it in English, and I still do not really understand,
1 what it is
2 Why it is
3 why anyone who is not VERY hungry would eat it!!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Peace
Date: 05 Jul 08 - 03:16 PM

May I answer that last statement from personal experience?
















NO!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Jeri
Date: 05 Jul 08 - 04:31 PM

Once when I went to Toronto, I crossed the border and somewhere just south of Monreal, stopped at a McDonald's. I bought McPoutine there. It tasted pretty good but was full of fat, drippy and hard to eat while driving, much like their other foods.

I was very hungry.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 05 Jul 08 - 06:33 PM

Despite having resided in Ottawa without interruption since 1984, I have yet to eat poutine. I'm trying for the record: most poutine-free years lived within spitting distance of Quebec.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 05 Jul 08 - 08:12 PM

Jeri... "I bought McPoutine there. It tasted pretty good but was full of fat, drippy and hard to eat while driving, much like their other foods."

Hehehehehe... good thing they didn't have Poutine Rappe. Now, driving and eating real poutine would be a trick! That there Quebec poutine is just not poutine.

Real poutine.

Sorry, gnu, couldn't get the diacritical marks in "rappe" to work.
el joe clone

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 06 Jul 08 - 12:32 PM

Micca:

You express astonishment at the concept of poutine, but let me tell you that not all your fellow countrymen agree. When I was serving in Bosnia in late 1996 a party of British soldiers was on our camp for some reason or other. I was attached to 5th Brigade HQ, a francophone formation from Valcartier, Quebec so poutine was often on the menu. I vividly remember the Brits going through the food line and hearing one soldier say to another "Oh, chips and cheese" with apparent delight.

Properly made poutine is actually a great comfort food, but has the caloric value of a full English breakfast. I haven't eaten it in years.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Carly
Date: 06 Jul 08 - 04:38 PM

It took me this long to stumble over this thread.... but we have been sending good thoughts out to you, Edmund and Charmion, since we saw you last and discovered Edmund was about to ship out. I hope the availibilty of emails makes this time easier for you both, ( I remember writing letters in the Viet Nam era and waiting, and waiting...) as well as knowing that so many people wish you safe and well.

Carly

PS I'd be careful of accepting packages from Mary and Jacqui if I were you, unless you are decorating for the holidays (any holidays!)

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 03:45 AM

Things have changed since my last deployment 11 years ago. No emails then, and no easy access to the Internet.

It is a great blessing to be able to connect to Mudcat and hear from my friends.

Thanks again.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 04:35 AM

For us too, Edmund.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 07:18 AM

Hi, Gnu -- I just checked your link for poutine rapée ... A boiled dumpling stuffed with potato and pork, slathered with maple syrup? Definitely not provender for city folk.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 08:36 AM

Carly - I have a diamond studded computer mouse which suggests you are the "pot calling the kettle black." Many thanks - belated, I know.
Package is ready to go with only one bit of "crappe" which oddly enough was requested by Edmund although he doesn't know it.
heh heh

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 08:37 AM

Wonder what condition the chocolate will be in? Chocolate Soup, maybe/

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 09:58 AM

Any chocolate mailed to Afghanistan ends as a package of soup. However, as long as it's well wrapped to prevent leaks, an hour or so in the fridge repairs the damage.

So now I'm racking my brain, trying to what I might have "requested" without knowing it. How will I be able to concentrate on my little part of establishing the rule of law in Afghanistan?

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 07 Jul 08 - 10:10 AM

Charmion... don't believe everything yo read. We put brown (or white) sugar on them. Never heard of anyone wasting Maple Slurpup on them.

At La Frolique, Edgar (Edgorre) has the best poutine (poo-tin). The $20 dollar ones do not have salt pork in the middle.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 28 Jul 08 - 06:11 PM

I am now back in the True North Strong and Free for my mid-tour leave. I think it's Sunday, but I'm not 100% sure, having slept about eight hours in the last seventy-two. It's raining, but a wet Ottawa summer is a welcome change after the dust of Afghanistan.

I am looking forward to a meal that doesn't include meat cooked to ratshit and covered with barbecue sauce.

A few days to get over the jet lag and then it's off to Goderich, Ontario for the annual Celtic College and Festival.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Amos
Date: 28 Jul 08 - 11:14 PM

Edmund!! Welcome home!! Does this mean you'll be making the Getaway??


A

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 29 Jul 08 - 12:27 AM

Hi Edmund, have a good leave, hope to see you somewhere soon

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 29 Jul 08 - 04:46 AM

Enjoy your leave, lad!!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 29 Jul 08 - 05:10 AM

I must have been really jet lagged. I obviously sent that message on Monday, not Sunday.

No Getaway for me, I'm afraid. My leave ends the third week of August. I hope somebody does some hanging or beheading songs on my behalf.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 29 Jul 08 - 12:16 PM

Come to Maine this weekend. We are having a MAritime festival.
Glad you are safe.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: curmudgeon
Date: 29 Jul 08 - 12:34 PM

Make sure to drink lots of good beer to make up for the deprivation - Tom

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 16 Aug 08 - 09:07 PM

I dropped Edmund at the airport a little after four o'clock this afternoon, and he's now heading back to Kabul. Three and a half months to go ...

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 16 Aug 08 - 09:25 PM

Ah, we shall *see* him returned, safe and sound.


{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}} to you both.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 17 Aug 08 - 07:47 AM

Stay safe and thanks again lad.

Hang in there darlin.

Gary

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 19 Aug 08 - 01:28 PM

I am now back on the ground after enjoying three weeks of music and good cooking. I can't say I'm glad to be back, but I am definitely looking forward to finishing the second half of this gig.

Thanks again to all my Mudcat friends.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Aug 08 - 04:12 PM

Your package will be mailed Saturday AM. look for the box leaking chocolate.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 20 Aug 08 - 12:30 PM

I'm looking forward to it, Mary.

Charmion and I had a wonderful time at the Goderich Celtic College & Festival. It would be great to see some more Mudcatters there.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Susan A-R
Date: 20 Aug 08 - 01:35 PM

Glad you got a good musical break from Afghanistan. Looking forward to the usual New Years trip through on your way to Maine. Stay safe. Charmion, if you come through between now and then, there's a cat foot warmer waiting.

Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 22 Aug 08 - 05:01 PM

Ah, the wonderfully hospitable Hendrix! Let's hope the weather co-operates; last year getting there and back again was definitely not half the fun.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Aug 08 - 12:21 AM

Wish you could just tell them all to go by the "rule of thumb" and bug out of there, CET. Stay safe and we look forward to your safe and uneventful return.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 03 Oct 08 - 06:14 AM

Yo Edmund.... saw a post from you on another thread. Just wondering how you are getting along.

Gary

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 03 Oct 08 - 12:23 PM

I'm doing fine, Gary. Thanks for asking. I am also wishing I could be at the Getaway, which starts tonight. I will sit outside instead, smoking a cigar and listening to my Ipod, and be there in spirit.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Oct 08 - 01:27 PM

You're still on our list, Edmund. Go ahead and be in two places at once-- I'll get it cleared upstairs. :~)

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,jh
Date: 04 Oct 08 - 06:04 AM

hat?

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Teribus
Date: 04 Oct 08 - 07:37 AM

All the best for a safe return CET, my son got back to UK a couple of weeks ago.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 09:33 AM

It's Remembrance Day, which is important enough but, even better, it's three weeks, at most, until Edmund comes home.

I just got an e-mail with photos of medals parade in Kabul. He looks great, if just a wee, little bit too thin. (That's gym.)

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 10:27 AM

How come your updates always come just when I'm particularly thinking of you both?

GOOD NEWS!

Fly, time, fly.

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: ClaireBear
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 11:32 AM

Oh, wonderful news in the offing! May the day be hastened, Charmion.

I think of you often. Hoping to meet Edmund at the next Getaway, after you've plumped him up some of course.

ClaireBear

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: kendall
Date: 12 Nov 08 - 08:54 AM

A trainer for the SEALS said that the biggest cause of death in battle is panic. Edmund doesn't strike me as a panic prone person.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 Nov 08 - 03:40 PM

Click your heels together and say three times "There's no place like home...There's no place like home...There's no place like home..."

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Nov 08 - 04:35 PM

He'll be home before you know it, Charmion. How's the decluttering going?**bg**

Be safe, Be well, Be swiftly home and sound,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 12 Nov 08 - 04:39 PM

Three weeks! God Bless and Godspeed!

And, once again, thanks.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Charmion
Date: 12 Nov 08 - 05:19 PM

The flight is booked: the big day is ****Sunday, 23 November****.

Only eleven (count 'em, 11) days. Gee, I wonder ... Can I get the snow tires on the car by then?

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,Charmion's brother Andrew
Date: 12 Nov 08 - 10:30 PM

If weather's an issue, give me a call, and we'll truck him home in the Pathfinder.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 13 Nov 08 - 12:30 PM

The only battles I'm fighting these days are with certain Canadian military bureaucrats. Never mind - that too will pass. My U.S. colleagues gave me a great send off tonight, and I start my travels home tomorrow. It takes a while to get out of Afghanistan and then I have a few days "decompression" leave before I actually get on a flight to Canada.

Thanks again to everyone who posted. It's been a long six months without singing (barring a little karaoke before I got tired of it) and I am looking forward to seeing you again.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 03:48 AM

Well, I'm back. I arrived late in the afternoon on the 23rd, via Heathrow and the Middle East, after being up for almost 24 hours. My internal clock is still off, which is why I am posting at this ungodly hour. There is snow on the ground and I don't care. It's good to be home.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Micca
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 04:20 AM

Edmund, Welcome home mate!!!Relax, Jet Lag only lasts a week or two!!!Did you wave on your way through Heathrow?, I thought you would go by way of Brise Norton if you came through here!!
anyway glad to see you back
Micca

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 05:28 AM

WELCOME HOME!!!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 08:10 AM

(((Cet and Charmion))) although I suspect there's a lot of that going on anyway!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Keith A of Hertford
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 09:24 AM

Glad it's over for you.
keith.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 09:31 AM

Welcome home, Edmund. Big sigh of relief. Glad our yanks treated you well.
Love,
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Amos
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 09:40 AM

Good on ya, Edmund, for finding your way back!! We're all delighted to hear it!! Welcome, welcome, welcome!!



A

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 09:59 AM

eDMUND, YOUR ARRIVAL WAS SUCH A BIG DEAL THAT THE cAT WENT DOWN A COUPLA DAYS oh sorry capslock

And just got back up in time for your post!


Didn't Charmion do a GREAT job of holding down the home front!!!!?

It's gonna take a little time to settle back in. We'll continue to keep you both in our thoughts and prayers.

~Susan & Greg

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 10:05 AM

YES!! Welcome back and thanks to the deity/or not of one's choice for your safe return!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Nov 08 - 01:44 PM

Good to have you back in this hemisphere, Edmund! Welcome home!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: CET
Date: 26 Nov 08 - 04:18 PM

Yes, Charmion did a brilliant job of holding down the home front. She kept me supplied with decent coffee from our favourite roastery in Ottawa as well as Globe and Mail crosswords. She has also been practising the guitar assiduously, and we have a new song to work out. Bill the Cat is as big and bumptious as ever.

I have spent a lot of time in the departure lounge at Heathrow Terminal 3 over the last couple of years. The thrill is wearing off, even if I did come back with a bottle of Highland Park 21 year old.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: gnu
Date: 26 Nov 08 - 05:06 PM

Wassail!

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 26 Nov 08 - 05:18 PM

Ah, he ventures out for a note to his mates. Back in the rack with you, Edmund!

:~)

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: GUEST,Charmion's brother Andrew
Date: 27 Nov 08 - 11:02 AM

Deb and I are so glad you're home, and are looking forward to a delayed Thanksgiving dinner with you and Charmion on Saturday.

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: wysiwyg
Date: 27 Nov 08 - 02:23 PM

Yes, Charmion did a brilliant job of holding down the home front.

Strangely neat and tidy, too, I bet.

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 'Catter deployed in southwest Asia
From: Marion
Date: 28 Nov 08 - 08:44 AM

That's great news, Charmion and Edmund. Welcome back.

Marion