Charles & Sonnet’s blog

The weather is pretty hit or miss here in Washington, but when it's beautiful, it's beautiful. Charles and I try and get out as much as possible. We have the benefit of being "newbies", so everything is new and wonderful to us. Even a drive around Tacoma normally produces something fun or interesting. Today, we drove across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and through Gig Harbor. The old Tacoma Narrows bridge is the one that replaced "Galloping Gertie".

In my search for video of the bridge collapse, I ran across some really neat pictures.  The photo below offers a unique perspective of the aftermath of Galloping Gertie.

The next photo shows the old, new Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
The bridge in the photo is the one that replaced Galloping Gertie.

Look! You can see our apartment complex in this photo! We're pretty close to the water. As we drive down the main road through our apartment complex, there's a great view of the bridges.

And, here's a current view of the Tacoma Narrows Bridges.
We'll never grow tired of seeing the mountains on a clear day.

So, we had a really nice day. Made it to Sunrise Beach, and Charles managed to get a few neat photos.


This was a neat little lake we found. A few little boats were out and about, maybe fishing for their dinner. It was so quiet, the water lapping at the shore didn't even make any noise.








Me (Sonnet) regarding the giant hunk-o-driftwood.


Me again, that sand is sure hard to walk on when it saturates as the tide rises.


Isn't it beautiful?


Our little crab buddy we found. Isn't he cute?

Life has been busy as usual. The weeks go by in a blur. This week is a short week for Charles, he's taken a few days off during block leave. Things have been interesting at work, though. Charles was selected to attend a "town hall" type of meeting between Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and approximately 1500 Ft. Lewis soldiers. Soldiers who asked questions, or chose to stay and shake the chairman's hand received a coin. Military coins are sometimes called "Challenge Coins". Coins are given out when a Soldier shows initiative above and beyond requirements, or does very well at a particular task. They are also given out to commemorate special events. A Soldier can challenge another Soldier by producing his/her coin - if his/her coin is from a higher ranking official, the can take the other Soldier's coin. They're also used in bars. A Soldier can whip out his coin and smack it on the bar, the other Soldiers follow suit. The Soldier without a coin, or who doesn't have their coin on their person buys the next round of drinks. After Admiral Mike Mullen, the next highest challenge coin is George W. Bush.

Charles has also been informed that he will soon be an E-3. It hasn't showed up on his pay, and it isn't official - but, they've changed it on the duty rosters so we think it's coming soon. Within the next month or so, I think Charles said. And, Charles did so well on his last firing test at the range that he's been nominated to attend marksmanship training. I'd like to throw an "Advanced" on the front of there because I think that's what he said, but I'm not quite sure - so I'll fix it later if it's wrong. Either way, he shot so well they're sending him for more training.

He's doing so well. I'm so very proud of him :)

I've been hanging out at home, still :) Chillin with the kittehs :) Itty Bitty Kitty (or IBK) had fleas, so I shaved him. It's starting to grow back, it's been about a week or so. He looks so pitiful, skinny shaved body - fluffy round head. But, it did the trick. He is currently flea-less and the treatment I gave him kills the eggs, so we're good to go on that front. Charles even loves the IBK. Probably because IBK chose Charles. And, what IBK wants - IBK gets.

Itty Bitty Shaved Kitty

I was able to meet the Battalion Commander's wife, Evelyn. She was super nice. She's the current leader of our Family Readiness Group. She and the BC will be moving to another post assignment soon, so I'm not sure who will be replacing either of them. She asked me if I'd like to be in charge of sending out the Battery's birthday and Anniversary cards. I said "sure". Not like I have anything better to do, right? So, it's a fun little once a month project. It's an easy way to be involved without having to hang out with catty Army Wives :)

Other than that... Not much, really.

My little brother Mikey graduated high school this month. He leaves for Basic Training at Fort Benning, GA on July 8th. If you're a prayer, keep him in your prayers. If you're not a prayer, send him some good vibes. I've gotta give him credit, he's a heck of a lot braver than I am. Charles and I are both very proud of Mikey and the decisions he's making for his future.

So, that's all folks! Everything is going well here in the WA. We love and miss you all!

~Sonnet & Charles

So, what better way to spend a Sunday than watching the Tigers stomp on the Mariners? Charles and I hopped into the PT Bruiser and zipped up the "Enchanted Parkway" - i.e. - I-5 to Seattle. The park itself is alright. It's no Comerica Park, that's for darn sure. It lacks... History? Character? A mascot? Comerica pays homage to the greats of Detroit. I don't have to list 'em, you know 'em. Character... Maybe that has to do with the Mascot, but it's just very industrial - very impersonal. The mascot is a joke. A moose? Seriously? One thing that I found annoying was - they had an abundance of pre-game schtick to get through. 12 first pitches, no wait - 13. Stealing bases. Little leaguers, cute - but annoying. And, they had "hop with the moose" or something where they played a song, and everyone jumped up and down with the moose. Bizarre.

Maybe if I didn't love Detroit so much, I wouldn't hate Safeco field. If I'd never been to a Tiger's game, maybe the Ichiro Sushi hut would be cute - the fact that I can get clams, gourmet pizza/fries, espresso, and Thai would be cute. Who knows. But, the fact is - I love the Tigers and I love Comerica Park. Sorry Safeco.

I've always felt strange when someone said "Happy Memorial Day". Happy? Not really, in my mind. Somber and reflective - maybe. It's always annoyed me, and now that Charles is an Active Duty Service Member himself - it fills me with a deeper sense of appreciation - a greater awe. I am eternally thankful for those who were brave enough to sacrifice their own lives so that others may live. I have a greater sense of pride this Memorial Day. My husband is one of those brave men and women who would lay down his life for his brother in arms, for his country, for his family.

I also have a new respect and love for the families of our fallen brothers and sisters in arms. Since moving to Washington, we have had the distinct pleasure of becoming friends with Sara Shea. She is the first person that I've known who has lost a family member overseas. I'm thankful that she's shared with me what she has about her brother Tim. Tim, from all accounts - was one high speed Soldier who seemed to have a passion for life and the people he loved. Just this past week, Sara flew to California to celebrate "Tim Shea Day" at their former high school. "Tim Shea Day" was a day filled with activities and scholarships in his honor.

This Memorial Day we'll be honoring Tim Shea in our hearts and minds. I ask that as my family and friends - you take a moment today to do the same. Here is an excerpt from an online remembrance book, dedicated to Tim Shea.

I have my husband back, yay! Charles' flight landed safely and on time yesterday at around 2:00 p.m. :) He was so very happy to see his family, and I was happy for him. I only wish I could have gone myself. But, that's life - I suppose.

We both missed each other very much, and did our best to keep in touch via Yahoo messenger while he was in Michigan. I actually had butterflies, waiting for his plane to land. I can't express the sheer joy and relief I felt when he came up that escalator from arrivals. The look on his face was priceless - we were like two lovesick teenagers, just so glad to be back together that we didn't care about being in the midst of a hundred or so people waiting for their baggage - there was only the two of us. Once our eyes locked - I didn't see anyone else :)

It reminds me of that scene from "Elf" with Will Ferrell. Buddy the Elf (played by Ferrell) bursts into his father's office and spins around, throwing his hat "I'm in love. I'm in love - and I don't care who knows it!". That's how I felt yesterday. Are you gagging, yet :) Or, maybe just rolling your eyes :) Hopefully, the clip made you laugh and you're over the nausea by now :)

So, I have to say that I don't draw that much anymore. With Charles being in MI - I kinda have a lot of time on my hands, so I decided to put it to good use.

Back in Caro, I had bought these really cheap and slightly boring prints at Wal-Mart because they were on sale and I had a blank wall to fill. Well, the truth finally came out when they showed up in WA - Charles hates them :) Which is fine, but I had purchased two shelves to go beneath them for candles - you know, accents. Since I couldn't hang the pictures because Charles loathed them - I had these two brown shelves I wanted to use but had no idea how to.

I asked Charles what he thought about me drawing on the print to try and make it more interesting. He wasn't really interested in it, so I just kind of tossed it aside. Then, about 8 or 9 last night (I think, time is relative in my world) - I decided to take the frame apart and draw on it anyways. After all, I couldn't make it any worse right? Charles already hated them, so - no harm, no foul.

Here's what I came up with!

5-21-08 drawing 019

5-21-08 drawing 025

5-22-08 the finished product 001

5-22-08 the finished product 003

Honestly, I'm very glad I decided to do this. I think Charles will be pleasantly surprised. As I started to draw, I started noticing details that I hadn't before. The lanterns are actually very ornate. On the stone, there's frogs at the top and there's leaves, embellishments. And, even elephants! I've looked at that picture a million times and never saw elephants. So, I definitely have a new appreciation for the original architecture. Now, I love my print because I understand what it is - and, it has a little piece of me in it now.

I'm a little OCD when it comes to drawing - I can work for hours on it, no bathroom breaks (I don't go in my pants, don't worry). But, once I start something and get a feel for it - I must complete it, I can't put it down. So, I started on it at around 8 p.m. last night, it's now 5:43 a.m. - it took almost 9 hours to complete! Wow, I really hadn't been paying attention to (what's the point, right? no Charles, no work. it's relative :)). See, I told you - I kind of lose myself in it.

Now, the other print in the set is of a castle, some trees and a stone bridge. I'm not sure it'll be as interesting, but you never know. Look at what I discovered with the other one...

Yay, I'm so happy with it now :) Just wanted to share :)

For those of you who do not know - Charles' grandfather (his mother's father) passed away today after a long illness. Bobbie Ray Walls, Sr. was battling health problems - seemingly getting better, only to fall ill again. Charles loved his grandfather very much. Each time they saw each other, they'd swap baseball stories and talk about how "this year was the Tiger's year". I personally, have enjoyed each time I've been with Grandma and Grandpa Walls. Grandma is always so very warm and jovial. Grandpa was always kind, we'd just worked up to having actual conversations this last year. One thing for sure, the kids loved him - grandchildren and great-grandchildren alike. I'll never forget how patient he was with our niece Allie - and, how he could tease her and get away with it when no one else could. I remember the day that Mom Gothro showed me a picture of Grandpa Walls when he was younger - Charles is his spitting image. I wish I had it to share with you. When I first saw it, the photo took my breath away. I then understood why Grandma always looked at Charles in a special way - almost reminiscent...

By the time you read this, Charles will be in Michigan. I'm sure he'd love to hear from you, or see you - so feel free to send him an e-mail (doesn't have his phone). Charles will be in MI until this coming Sunday, the 25th.

I, unfortunately - was unable to fly home with him. Airfare was close to $1000 for one ticket. We just can't afford it right now. So, my thoughts and love extend to Grandma Walls, Mom Gothro, Charles and the rest of the family. I wish I could be there with you all.

Grandma & Grandpa Walls, 8/30/03

What a great day! Jarod and Jess met us at Owen Beach. Temps were in the high 80's! Owen Beach is beautiful. You have to drive through the forest and past the Point Defiance Zoo to find it (waaaaaaaaay back there). The beach was packed. Jarod and Charles dropped Jess and I off to go park the cars - there was a kayaking symposium, so we saw more kayaks than we've ever probably used the word "kayak". Which honestly, would maybe be three times that I remember... Anyways, we had a ton of fun - so, here's some pics - enjoy!

Miss Jessica, lookin all cute and prego on the beach.

We walked around a bit and marveled at the number of people out and about, every time we'd been there before it was deserted. But, go figure - 80 plus degrees, everyone is looking for the water. Jess and I talked about our hometowns and how there wasn't much to do, and agreed that unlike our hometowns - people in WA get off their duffs and get outside at least. Bikinis, babies, kayaks, dogs, bbq'ing - we saw it all today.

To our right

To our left

Jess and I chit chatted about her daughter Kaylee (5) who is visiting Jess' mother in Kentucky - we agreed that we both miss her sense of humor and perfectly timed, 5 year old sarcasm (who can generally render any of us speechless or leave us in fits of laughter). Finally, Jarod and Charles reappeared and we found a shady picnic table and chowed down.

Mmmm, lunch.

Awww, Jarod & Jess

We finished up our lunches and decided to explore. Jess and I wanted to catch some sun, and the boys wanted to head further down the beach and have a walk about - so we sent them on their way and we spread out the blanket and started to girl talk. We put our piggies in the water, laughed and scooted as the tide quickly came in. I tried to take a self portrait, and got up to get a better feel of that cold Sound water and Jess managed to snap off a few shots. After the boys got back, we hung out in the shade - Charles found me a heart shaped rock, we all cracked jokes as we people watched, and eventually grew bored and agreed to rendezvous at the nearest Cold Stone Creamery.

Charles stealin' my candy necklace

Heading off for a walkabout

Cheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeese-y

I got a burn offa the glare from that cute preg-o belly

Puget Sound meet Sonnet

Sonnet VS Puget Sound. Sonnet, 0 - P.S., 1

So, that was our amazing day at the beach. Jess and I got glowing sunburns to show for it, but the Cold Stone ice cream made it all betters :)

Welcome to our new site! I've decided to switch to Vox because it's simply so much more feature rich. I can upload photos and videos much more quickly and efficiently. And, the privacy settings are much more customizable. For now, this will be open to the pubic. But, eventually - you'll need to register in order to view the blog.

So, what's new? Gee - not a whole lot. Life is good, been busy. Charles just came back from 3 days in the field. His section had to qualify on their "gun". Although, calling it a gun seems like a gross understatement - 155 mm rounds up to 30 miles seems like a little more than a gun to me. But, by definition - a gun is:

 Below is a video Charles shot of another section firing their gun for qualifying. Charles is doing the filming, and you'll hear his buddies asking questions like "Why is everyone so close (to the gun". You'll know they're about to fire when everyone starts moving away from the cannon. The concussion is so great, Charles actually loses his grip on the camera and drops it. You'll hear Charles talk, but the only thing he says is "Wow". We'll work on uploading more videos in the future. That's one thing about Vox that I love - it makes it so much easier for us to stay in touch in so many different ways. I'd encourage all of you to start your own - it'd be a great way to keep in touch. You can upload pics and vids of the kids, etc. And, with Vox - you can keep everything super private if you want so that people can't bring you up via search engine. Right now this blog is completely open to whoever wants to read it, but eventually - we'll make it private if we can get enough people to join :)

So, it's a gun. I just like to call it "all sorts of awesomeness".

Here's some pics - enjoy!

Charles with some dork in the background

Making sure everything is squared away (not Charles)

DSCI0021.jpg

DSCI0023.jpg

DSCI0025.jpg

DSCI0030.jpg

DSCI0075.jpg

DSCI0055.jpg

And, surprise! I've managed to get a clip of Charles in the top of a truck - yay!

Oh yeah, and I'm a blonde now - that's new, too. Not sure how long it'll last - but, here's a pic :)

3-4-08 023

2 comments

I'm so thankful that Spring is finally here! I can't really complain about winter in WA, but I can say that it's nice to see some sunshine. I love taking random pics, and one thing I wanted to share was the beautiful flowers that grow around our apartment complex. Relevant? Not really, just purty :)

DSCI0009

DSCI0013

Our front door, yay :) Let freedom ring!

DSCI0008

Ok, so that's all from me for now. Love you all!

~Sonnet