parallax adjustment

Badged!!!!

2012-01-20T15:45:00.001-08:00

Today's the day I've been waiting for for nearly three years. Finally sworn in as a Texas Peace Officer.

I'm so giddy with delight and relief, you have no idea. There's still a few weeks of field training to do, but if the past couple of days in the office were any indication, I should have no problems. I've met with some of the command staff, chief, our office manager and a couple investigators. Great people with positive attitudes. I'm really looking forward to Monday. Even better, the campus (I'm a college cop) is right by the house. Several people have told me my new FTO is a real squared away and dialed in type. I should gain a lot of knowledge from him.

Now starts a new clock. I get to count down the days until I finish my field training. From there, I'll go solo on night patrol.

I'm just gonna sit here and bask in the moment...while wearing my sam brown, with my badge pinned to my t-shirt....eating doritos. Yeah, I'm a real party animal.

Stay safe, folks. I'll be watching.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-26T10:55:00.001-08:00

Should've posted this yesterday, but family obligations always take precedent.

Merry Christmas!

Blogmeat

2011-12-19T20:28:00.001-08:00

Squeeee! Like a little schoolgirl. Got to meet Ambulance Driver this past weekend. Am a real big fan of his blog and snark. Thought it was über cool that we finally got to meet face to face. Even though it was a short meet, we were able to swap a few stories and share a chuckle or two. Lil Windage even got a chance to meet a real live ambulance driver. She was so excited to know that Mr. AD gets to drive around with the woo-woos on.

Next time, there will be guns, beer and more stories. Who knows, we may even embarrass Swede by wearing kilts out in public.

When it rains....

2011-12-14T06:51:00.000-08:00

It sure does pour.

So, I had the interview with the chief yesterday. During the meeting, my phone rang. Found out after I left that another campus PD called for an interview. I'm a popular dude this week. Scheduled that interview for later this morning. While getting that squared away, phone beeps an incoming email. Wouldn't ya know it! Sent a background packet for a private security firm in town. These guys are top notch and only have one client (neighborhood association) in town. Talk around town is this would be an ideal security firm to work in while trying to get my foot in the door with a police agency.

I'll know more by Friday. Chief said he'll make his decision then. I left on a positive there. He said several times through the meeting that he 'liked what I brought to the table,' and a couple other buzz worthy phrases. The only negative I caught from him (and it could go either way) was towards the end when he advised if I didn't make this cut, reapply and let him know when I did that. I took it as a very strong indicator that I'm one of his top picks for this job.

Just a couple more days and I'll know if I get the offer. If it goes through (and I'm praying it does...you should pray, too!), then I will start on the 15th of January. Just in time to celebrate my birthday and maybe get in a three gun match.

Good Sign

2011-12-13T09:51:00.001-08:00

I think it's a good sign when the chief of police you just interviewed with tells you that you are a strong candidate.

He said this to me several times throughout the interview. I take that as a big positive for me. I should know more by Friday. In the meantime, I have an interview with another college campus PD tomorrow morning. They actually called me during the interview. Tested with them this past weekend, and get a call today. Sounds like they want to put someone in the position by New Year's as well. Hope they get my background knocked out before Christmas break. I hate waiting.

Meeting in the AM

2011-12-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

Have a meeting in the morning with the chief of one of the college PDs I applied to. Some friends in the know have told me this is a very good sign, and that a meeting with the chief is akin to getting the job already.

Prayers would be nice.

I'll keep you posted.

Still Around

2011-12-10T11:15:00.000-08:00

Still around, just haven't done shit on Blogger.

Just tested for a slot at a local college in town. Sixty candidates for 2 positions on the department. Saw quite a few older officers looking to get away from HPD. Bunch of young'uns looking for an 'easy' assignment with a fat paycheck. And I saw some turds from my first academy class that shouldn't be testing.

I'm not worried. I usually test pretty well. Just need to wait by the phone for a couple of days to see if I make the cut, or if someone else is better than me at written tests.

Been waiting for several weeks for an answer from a department west of here. Not holding breath for that one, but I like the area and know a couple of the cops there. Would be a nice place to work. In background for another college in downtown. Hope that comes up good.

We shall see.

And I've been applying like crazy to other jobs outside of law enforcement that interest me.

Prayers would help.

Done

2011-06-23T10:44:00.001-07:00

Received word from the downtown PD yesterday. No go.

I have one more app pending and the I'm done. I have faced too much rejection these past two years to continue further.

Time to go back into the private sector and provide for my family.

Two Weeks

2011-05-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

And I'm praying for rain.

Dropped off an updated app (last one was over six months old) for the department west of town. Hopefully this will be the 'one.' The investigator seems a nice sort, and I like that. I get the sense that he'll actually do the leg work and keep me in the loop. My buddy, Walker, is gonna keep tabs on the investigation, too, and let me know if there's something amiss.

I've still got two others out there. Not holding out much hope for one of them. Filled the app out online for a campus PD job north of town, but it's a loosey-goosey department with lower standards and pay. I'd jump at the chance for some training and experience, but I wouldn't be there for too long. The other is for a campus PD in town. Been waiting forever and a day for them to even start my background investigation. Called last week to find out if the positions had been filled so I could move on to the next one and they told me the investigators were working a big case and couldn't get away to do any backgrounds. The last time I called, they were all on vacation for Spring Break.

I wouldn't mind that campus job. Good pay, training, free tuition and schooling, and the commute would be a breeze. I'd see lots of action, too. They do some real proactive work in the area.

My next choice is to apply for the Tx DPS as a state trooper. They're hiring right now and guarantee duty stations upon hire. I'd spend several months at the academy in Austin, but would be home on weekends. That is the toughest part of that decision. Time away from Windage and Swede would be a huge sacrifice, and we have to weigh that heavily in the decision to apply.

My nerves should be about shot in a couple weeks. I'll get a better sense of where this app is going by how many of my references let me know they've been called, and what was said.

My New Tattoo

2011-03-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Should read: "Permanently F&*#ed!" Yet another department sent me their "F*&# You" letter yesterday. I knew it was coming, but let it get to me anyway. The obvious clue that I wasn't getting hired was that only one (1) of the crew I tested with was hired, then three weeks later the PD posted another test date. The second clue was that none of my references called me, and no one from my current employ told me of any phone calls or inquiries. It sucks. Here I am in the midst of one of the worst economic downturns in memory, and I can't even find a decent job shuttling pizza. No one is hiring. Of the 98-someodd different agencies in the area, most are laying off people. 150 Constable Deputies were let go from Precinct 4 in the last two weeks. Some in the middle of good arrests (DWI, Family Violence, Felonies). It's just gonna keep getting harder and harder for me to find a job. I'm gonna have to get a real full-time position somewhere else for the time being. Security, armored car, digging ditches...whatever to pay bills. My wife and I cannot go any further on her salary alone. I'd love to hear from MattG or Lawdog and see if they could part with any advice I might not have heard yet. "Maverick, what's the name of that truck driving school we saw on t.v. again? Truck Masters?"

Sunuva...

2011-03-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

Just heard that 90 Harris County Constable Precinct 4 Deputies were given their walking papers last night. What do you think that does for my chances at other departments? Yeah, thought so. Ninety experienced officers versus me going for similar jobs. Gonna be a harder fight now.

Mucked That One Up!

2011-02-24T11:25:00.001-08:00

Just realized too late that I screwed up on one of my background packets. They were asking for employment history since I was 18, and I only gave 10 years worth. Damn!

Oh well. I'm pretty sure I have been disqualified from the selection process. Just have to wait and see if they open a slot sometime in the near future.

After testing last week, I got the packet for another school and just dropped it off. Had to the end of next week to complete it, but why wait. Don't know how many passed (at least three that I know of from my academy class), and don't know how many else have theirs in, too. Another week and a half wait for an investigator to call me on that one. Considering gas prices, I would enjoy the short ass commute.

I'm sure the third school is just going down the list and matching up apps to their parameters. Maybe I'll get the call or not. We'll see.

Short List

2011-02-22T05:30:00.001-08:00

Again!

So, I got one app in with one school, and another in progress with a second. Haven't heard anything from the third, but that may take some time.

Tested for the one school on Saturday. I've taken the same test before and got the same exact answers and score as the last time. Funny how that happens. I was the second one done, but the first one to pass. Lots of former cadets from my academy wanting this position. Saw three from my graduating class, one from the 'class from Hell,' and recognized a couple more from the day class when I graduated. That should make for stiff competition. Hopefully, I get farther than the rest. The commute to this school is less than 15 minutes on a heavy traffic day, and it is in a decent neighborhood with some good calls for service.

Feels Like...

2011-02-11T13:40:00.001-08:00

I've been waiting forever. Only been three weeks since I got the call that the PD northwest of here is starting my background. Hope all is going well and I move on to the next phase of hiring.

In other news...Got apps in with three school departments. First one was from September and I test next week. Second gave me a long form to fill out and return next week. The third just posted a position last week and I completed the online app. We'll see how it goes.

Still no word on going to work with my friend, "Walker." Last news was the guy leaving just had his chief's interview with the new department over a week ago. Bureacracy at its finest.

When it rains...

2011-02-03T07:30:00.000-08:00

It snows.

"Anxiously" awaiting Snowmageddon Houston 2011 here. Got a 40% chance of the flaky white stuff dusting my driveway. Sitting around the house in my ECWS gear. Kid you not. I'm all warm and fluffy awaiting ERCOT and Reliant to roll another blackout.

No shit situation...Driving back home from lifting with a bud. Turn down the drag to the house and am racing the lights to my street. "Why are you racing the streetlights, Shooter?" you ask. Good question. As I turn and head that way, signal lights start going out. As I approached each intersection, they would kick off. Some would go dark, and others would kick to flashing red. I managed to beat the blackout by ten minutes. Waited another thirty for the lights to come back on and screamed bloody murder when the lights and hot water heater went out ten minutes after that.

Dear ERCOT and Reliant Energy,

You suck, and I hate you.

Love and kisses

Shooter.

On another note. When it rains, it pours. Got emails from two universities in town. Both asked that I fill out personal history packets (long forms) and submit them. I test with both later this month. Now I have to go into work early and start making copies and ordering transcripts again. Ugh!

Here We Go Again...

2011-01-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

Started background for the department to the Northwest of here. Just heard the news that one of my classmates from the academy was hired by them, so I'm hoping that bodes well for me.

Apps are out for three more agencies. One college campus PD in town and two others west of here between home and where "Walker" works.

Speaking of...still in a holding pattern with that department way out west of here. The guy that's leaving is in a holding pattern as far as his new PD is concerned. Don't know why, but suspect the usual municipal gov't. B.S. My weekly meets with Walker must be a strain on him as it is on me. I'm getting frustrated to hear about setback after setback, and he must be equally bummed having to tell me to wait a little more.

My fear is the recruiter over there will have forgotten about me and go on to the next application he sees in the stack. Here, I've been waiting since before October, and the wait seems interminable.

I ALMOST had a sure thing locked up last week. Not a matter of if they want to hire me, but WHEN I wanted to start. L-2 and L-3 from the academy would have sufficed, and the background only went back two years on employment. It was a little podunk muni PD with one other full time officer and 5 reserves. Full time guys work days and reserves work weekends and nights.

Come to find out that Walker knows these people and told me to run away....far far away from this PD if they offer the job. Seems they have TCLEOSE (state license agency for law enforcement) giving them the hairy eyeball regarding some shenanigans the mayor is pulling. Say no more. I'm not going to sacrifice my ethics and moral values for a job, no matter how promising.

Still keeping at it. I'll update when I know more.

I Hope...

2010-12-16T11:33:00.000-08:00

The judges say kind things about me.

Just met the Background Investigator yesterday AM. Nice enough guy. Works primarily in the Organized Crime division of this department, so he's got experience digging out dirt on people. I'm expecting a six week wait (with the holidays and all upon us) before I hear back. He says it may be quicker. I'll know more when I start hearing from former co-workers and my references that he talks to.

Still saying those prayers. Hoping for good things to happen here.

Talent Portion

2010-12-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Just dropped off the application for the department to the Northwest. All 110 pages of it. This is the long form that requires you spill your life's history for all to read and laugh at. I think it is some of my finest handiwork to date.

I had all the requred documentation, and some extra. Managed to print neatly in all available spaces. And I gave them all the pertinent details that they asked for.

Next step is to wait by the phone for a call from the Background Investigator. I'm not taking bets that he calls before Christmas. Chances are good that I'll move forward to Background sometime after my birthday (the day before Elvis' birthday).

On the other front, my backchannel connection in the department out west of town stated the divorcee is on the short list for a department I tried for back in July 2009. He's a 19 year vet in the warrants section. When he leaves, a patrol deputy moves into his spot. Reason and logic suggest that the open patrol slot will be offered to me. I should know more sometime after next week.

I am taking bets on this one. I do hope to have a badge under my Christmas tree this year. Would be nice.

Bonus Round

2010-11-19T20:03:00.001-08:00

It's that time again! Bonus round for this PD to the northwest of town. Good department, like the chief, pay's well.

Took the Physical Agility Test today. Managed to do very well. Of the 40 who tested Monday, only 14 of us made it this far. The PD is looking for 4, maybe 5, officers. I'm praying daily that this goes well. Just need a little bit of luck to go my way. Just a little.

Ahoy! Ahoy!

2010-11-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

Got the call! Test tomorrow. The good is that I test, the bad is that I have a chest cold and some nagging knee pain from weightlifting. Hopefully, neither will sideline me. I will do what I can to push through any discomfort.

Got timed pushups, situps, a sit-n-reach, timed 1.5 mile run and a dummy drag to get through. Shouldn't be any harder than other PATs I've done.

Wish me luck.

I hate...

2010-11-17T12:54:00.000-08:00

...waiting for the phone to ring.

Tested Monday for a PD northwest of here. Just the written portion. Waiting on the phone to ring to find out if I passed and make it to the physical agility test on Friday. Should know one way or another in a bit. Others in my academy class who tested with me have received their calls.

This does nothing for my gray hair, or my nerves.

It's been a minute or two...

2010-11-09T12:49:00.001-08:00

And I'm still waiting.

Just made a call out west. Still in a holding pattern. Seems that one of the guys out there wants to retire, but doesn't know when he's gonna do it. Just a matter of time.

In the meantime, I asked about doing a ride-along just to see how things operate. There is truth to the rumor that cops don't like people they don't know tagging along, so it may take a while to convince someone to have me ride with them. It sure as shit beats sitting on my thumbs waiting for the phone to ring.

I've been busy filling out applications and working out. Got a friend, former PT instructor, who's been helping me build up my upper body and leg strength. Getting me prepared for the mean streets and that 'fight gone bad' (when it eventually happens).

Should be about six more weeks and I'll be back to squatting and bench pressing my body weight (250#). I was there a couple months back on my own, but fell off as studies progressed in the academy. It feels better working with a partner, especially someone who knows about physical training and can help me improve.

Six more applications are out the door right now, with one on the table for Houston Police. Still debating that one. Don't really want to go to another academy for six months, but a paycheck would be nice to have.

Here's The Pisser...

2010-11-01T08:12:00.000-07:00

As the late, great Chuck Shramek would say.

Talked to my friend "Walker" from that department out west of town. The good news is...was...that they were holding a position open for me when I gradiduated from the academy. The bad...the county commissioner took away the funding for it after the county budget was approved.

I take it as a good sign. It signals that there are people in the profession that are taking a vested interest in my career and going out of their way to help. Makes me warm and fuzzy inside thinking about it. There's rumor that a position there may soon come open due to turnover, so I just need to be patient a minute or two longer.

I should probably mention...

2010-10-29T12:40:00.001-07:00

That I passed TCLEOSE with a 94% score. Tied for the highest score in my cadet class. I'm now licensed and actively searching for a department willing to hire me.

I'm almost to the point where I can stand shoulder to shoulder with the likes of MattG and Lawdog.

This Is One Of Those Days

2010-09-29T15:31:00.001-07:00

Where my heart is just not in the fight. Dear Lord, give me strength.

All Points Of The Compass

2010-08-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, I went north....with a split decision.

I travelled to the south....and still lost.

Westward, HO!

We'll see how this works. Gotta love my lil' Windage. She's the apple of my eye, a little hellion on two feet, and a shameless flirt. She really digs guys in uniform. Glad she is taken by the right kind (Sorry, AD, she has yet to meet any uniformed Medics).

Swede and I have been teaching her about public safety officials whenever we're out and about. She loves to see fire trucks and police cars (especially with the 'woo-woo's' on!). Windage is always on the lookout for them, and shouts out every time she sees one. She's been photographed on a pumper in the grocery store parking lot, and has received more badges than I have from HPD.

My girl is a human barometer. She knows when someone is good (cops, firefighters, military), and when it is a real 'stranger-danger.' When Swede and I make our family trip to the green grocer every weekend, Windage always wants to stop and say "Hi" to the police officer working security by the entrance. From the state trooper to the two seargants from HPD, they all know her and enjoy getting their weekly hug and kiss from her when she runs up and says, "Hi, Oficifer!"

This leads me into my latest opportunity out west. One of the extra duty officers is a patrol supervisor for a county SO west of town. About the same distance to their station from my house, door-to-door, as the North PD and the South PD. Windage wanted to say hi on an unscheduled stop with me and I got to talking to the deputy. Since "Lawdog" is already in use as a nom de plume, I'll refer to him as "Walker, Texas Peace Officer" or "Walker" for short.

Walker and I are shooting the breeze, and we come up on the subject of hiring, rejection, and my time in the academy. Yeah, I probably steered the conversation in that direction, so sue me. He immediately mentioned that his SO is hiring and needs somebody ASAP. Preferably with TCLEOSE in hand, but I was encouraged to fill out an app and let him know when I did. He was kind enough to offer to put in a good word for me with the recruiter.

Well, it just so happened to work out that I had two days off from the academy this week. Firearms qualifications were going on and I aced mine on Tuesday after Monday's practical course. Wednesday and Thursday were set aside for requalifying by those who worry me when armed.

Being impatient, I drove down to Walker's neck of the woods and walked in the door. Met the FTO (Field Training Officer) in charge and we chatted for some time. He even took me through some parts of the department that weren't in complete disarray. This is a quiet county as evidenced by the ladies in the communications department playing solitaire and facebooking instead of taking calls for service (they are the dispatch, public service, and 911 operators for the county...both of 'em).

I walked away from that encounter with a good feeling about the people in the department. Very open and friendly as exhibited by the FTO Seargant. Didn't see Walker there, nor did I get to meet the recruiting seargant, either. Did that the next day.

Filled out the app in record time, along with making copies of all pertinent documents, certificates and licenses. Don't know, but I probably scored points by having college and high school diplomas and transcripts in hand. The recruiter seemed nice, we chatted about this and that for a while and he answered all my questions about the department. Unfortunately, they are looking to hire someone 'right this second' and I can't get hired because I'm still in the academy. BUT! It is possible that there will be an open position by the time I graduate as one of the deputies wants to go to Iraq and teach them how to police themselves for beaucoup bucks.

I have that good feeling I got from the North PD. I'm not gonna hold my breath any, though. I'm praying daily just the same, and hoping this turns into something positive.

I've worked hard these last 18 months to join the ranks and stand shoulder to shoulder with the likes of people like AD, Lawdog and MattG. The countdown is on, and there are only 9 more Fridays until I graduate and take the state exam. I'm looking forward to the opportunity.

*Note: I know AD is a medic, but he's the kind of guy that enhances the image of public saftey officials...police, fire, and EMS. I'd be glad to back him up on a call any day.

We Regret To Inform You,

2010-08-21T10:44:00.001-07:00

But we don't want you to come and join our reindeer games.

I didn't pass background for the PD to the south of here. I'm not in a happy place, and I'm ready to quit the academy and do something else now. Fuck.

One Wish

2010-08-18T15:20:00.001-07:00

Just once, I'd like things to go my way on the job hunt. Getting near graduation and I just want an agency to say yes. Is that too much to ask?

Need to ask . . .

2010-08-09T12:05:00.001-07:00

I wonder if Lawdog or MattG ever had a day where some random stranger walked up to them while on duty and called them a fascist pig?

Happened while I was parking the truck. Got out, had my earbuds in listening to my TCLEOSE review material and almost didn't hear her berate me. The tipoff was her flipping me the bird as she walked off.

Had I been in better spirits, I might have had a quick retort for her. For now, I'll just have to mutter under my breath about baton practice and live human subjects.

Still waiting

2010-07-21T09:57:00.001-07:00

No news this week from that PD down south. Don't know if that is good or bad. Still praying every day for a positive outcome.

Meanwhile, at the academy, things are starting to pick up. Midterms, CPR practical and PT evals all this week and next. We start the hands on stuff next week.

Still In The Process

2010-07-15T11:23:00.001-07:00

Still in the process with the department down south. I've talked to my background investigator a couple of times to clarify some points on my background. Other than that, can't say anything. He did ask a couple of questions that no one else has asked me. That was refreshing.

After he's done, it is really out of my hands. My background gets handed off to someone up the chain of command for a signature and the next phase begins. At this stage, I really don't care one way or the other.

Yeah, I do want to work for this department. They are a great group, and everything I've been told about them holds up. If it goes south, I'll bide my time until graduation and try again.

Oral Boards - FTW!

2010-07-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

Got some great advice from a police officer speaking to the night class several weeks ago. "Win the interview."

That's all there is to it.

I won yesterday. Now in the background investigation phase. The last background I did felt much better. The investigator took more time with me and gave me the opportunity to explain what was on the 'personal history' application. I'm not so sure about this one. A detective with the department is handling this. We only met for the first time this morning (about five minutes total). He just verified some contact information, stated the process will start immediately and should take up to three weeks to complete. We'd be in touch.

While one part of me worries that this is a bad sign, the other half thinks this is the way this department rolls on their backgrounds. Keep their distance from the applicants until they pass this portion and the department has a good feeling that the applicant will get that 'conditional offer.'

I know my employment history (that which has plagued my efforts to get hired) sucks. It doesn't fit the larger departments' criteria for selection, but the smaller departments can (and have!) look past it to the human being. I'm hoping they do that here. Praying daily is more like it.

I've spent too long bouncing from job to job, but that's the way it worked when I was in radio. I decided to grow up and start a family, but a steady career track in banking was derailed by a 'hard luck' story, bad paperwork organization, and a bank run like an S&L.

I have to constantly remind others and myself that what is written down on paper is not the real person seated before them. I am all that and much more.

I'll try and post daily on this journey through the police hiring process. I hope it helps me more than entertains you. This will be the last police application process I go through before October. I didn't withdraw this application because I put it at the back of my mind. I wasn't going to deal with it until the department called. Well, they called.

Here's praying for good fortune.

Once Again, Into the Breach

2010-06-23T14:32:00.001-07:00

Just got a call this afternoon from another PD I applied to. I applied the same time as this last one, and come to find out the same psych doc is on contract here, too.

They want me to come in for an oral review board meeting in a couple of weeks. My stomach is a ball of nerves right now, and I don't really know what to think. On the one hand, I'm excited, but on the other, I just know I'll get axed by the psychologist again. That's my biggest worry.

I'm gonna go in there not expecting miracles, but fighting every inch of the way to show these people that I am not what it says on paper. I am more than that, and I want a chance to prove it.

Only one department saw fit to give me that chance, but the doctor nipped my opportunity in the bud. I'm sure I had a hand in it, too. I know I went in there assuming the job was a lock, and I didn't give the best impression during that last meeting. I plan to make up for that.

DIdn't Happen

2010-05-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

I'm still trying to wrap my head around this, but the psychologist for the department said "due to my unstable work history, I was not a good fit for the department."

So, no new job for me.

Yeah, it sucks hard.

Back to the drawing board.

Changes

2010-05-05T08:42:00.001-07:00

That's Officer Rod Farva to you, mister!

Seems a little luck finally came my way. I'm on the list for a local PD north of town. Their academy starts in June. Just need to clear the medical hurdle and pee in a cup and I'm all set.

This comes one year, two months and 4 days to the day that I started down the road to a law enforcement career.

It is a nice department with a good, strong staff and chain of command. All equipment is provided short of a duty weapon and my boots. Guess I have to buy a new gun now. Great benefits and I don't mind working in the piney woods of east Texas. The shade'll do me some good.

I'll have to quit the current academy I'm in. Oh, darn! Not like I'm gonna be missed there at all.

What really puts the cherry on top of this is that I'll now be getting a better paycheck. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and brighter. It'll be nice to be a provider for my family again.

FML

2010-04-22T05:48:00.001-07:00

Flat broke. Mounting debt. Shitty cadets. Miss my family evenings.

Yup. That's my life.

Garage Sale

2010-03-19T09:18:00.001-07:00

Found some items that I have no use for anymore. Need to clean up some space in the garage and get a little scratch set aside to purchase items needed for the police academy.

I have a Canon Rebel 35mm SLR with lenses, filters and a couple other accessories (maybe some good film in there, too).

Also have for sale a PSE Thunderbolt II compound bow. Built it up myself. Shoots very well, but may need to be restrung. Only used one deer season with success and in competition for one year. Lots of extras (arrows, quiver, release, case, etc.).

I do have several Ham radios that need new homes. Several HT's and a mobile rig.
-Kenwood TH-79AD(H), MARS/CAP modified.
-Yaesu VX-1R
-Icom RC-1 receiver
-Yaesu FT8100R dual band mobile rig

I also have a Cobra President's Model CB radio.

The Ham gear will only be sold to licensed Ham operators.

I'll get photos up this weekend to let you browse. Email me with your offers or leave a message with contact information in comments. Email at kc5ril - AT - gmail - DOT - com

Just Thought I'd Share...

2010-02-17T05:32:00.000-08:00

Being a class leader in this particular academy sucks. These cadets just don't get it, and are acting like little spoiled children.

That is all.

They Call Me...

2010-01-22T21:00:00.000-08:00

"Tater Salad!"

Great line by Ron White.

Anyway, class elections were held tonight. Sad to say, I didn't get captain. That went to our resident doppleganger of Baby Bush. Kid you not, this guy is the spitting image of our most recent Republican POTUS, George W. Bush. He looks, acts and sounds like him. Wouldn't be surprised if the Army asked him to be a stand in for the real thing from time-to-time.

We were nominated, allowed to speak our case for said position, and then four nominees were led out of the room for the voting. I didn't have the votes to carry the win.

So, someone else stands up for me to be class Lieutenant. This guy I never expected to nominate me at all. I have to say, he looks like "Semi" from the movie "Employee of the Month" with Dane Cook and Jessica Simpleton. So, Semi nominates me for the LT position. I shit my shorts, gather up my things and wait outside class again. Instructor points to me before I even sit down and says, "Shooter, you're it."

Okay. Not the position I wanted, but I am glad to take it.

Unfortunately, I had a brain fart and didn't nominate one guy who wanted the LT job. And, as hard as it was, I had to go against a promise to vote for another for class Sergeant. I chose age and work experience over his youth and desire. I confronted both right away and nipped any possible rumor/gossip before it could get started. They were both appreciative and glad I faced up to them when I explained myself. That will be the only time I do so as class Lieutenant.

Now the fun really begins. Monday is the first cadre meeting, inspection and chance for us to work out some class rules and punishments. Looking forward to the responsibility, and am glad for the chance to have a big feather in my cap come graduation and job-hunting time.

"Represen'n"

2010-01-20T12:54:00.000-08:00

So, the first couple of weeks have passed in the Academy. So far, I'm doing well. About middle of the road for PT, but I knew that going in. Still can't do a pullup for shit, but neither can 75% of the class. We still have the 2 mile run to get through sometime in the next week, and then we'll know where we stand on PT evals.

The first test was last night. More like a minor quiz. Eighty questions later, and I was done. Pretty sure I aced it, but maybe missed one or two. Won't know until after tomorrow night's class. Two people out of 60 failed. They get one more makeup and have to score 80% or better to pass. Even if they get a perfect score, they only get 80% on the makeup. I don't see that I was 'on the bubble' with the majority who passed. We took the Nelson-Denny reading comp test on day 1 and I was the only one to finish first and to get the max possible score. On top of that, I've only missed about five questions total on all the reviews for each subject block until now. Cumulatively, I'm doing well. If anything, I can easily be selected for a squad leader position.

Speaking of...class elections for captain, lieutenant and sergeant are being held in the next week (squad leaders are selected based on PT evals among other factors). Everyone was polled on if they were running or not. I'm in the running for captain along with one other. I've been politicking since the middle of the first week. This guy up and decided yesterday to run. I'm staring down the barrel of a loaded gun here. He's black, I'm white. About 60% of the class is black. Already, I've seen the writing on the wall. It faded though, when he opened his mouth to speak. His promise to the class if elected: "I's be the one represn'n you, totally. All th' way, one hunnert p'cnt." That, and he claims leadership experience being in the military and in charge of some 'safety squad.' He wouldn't expound on his resume, and hasn't said a peep since class started.

The only other trouble spot in class elections is a Hispanic upstart whom I've dubbed "That Guy." You all know "That Guy." He's the loud and obnoxious one who is always mouthing off about how he doesn't need to be here, he's way better than everyone else, this is all bull shit, elect a brutha for the captain position, my brother is in law enforcement and I got's the job already. Yeah, "That Guy." TG is running for LT. If I had my way, he'd be running for the door. He is showing his true colors and it is getting noticed by the instructors and class.

This will be fun. Along with several others in class, I've been working hard to meet all the cadets, know their names and backgrounds. Press the flesh, if you will. I've heard a smattering of support for my efforts to be captain. We'll see how that turns out come election time. Just need to keep hacking away at it. Those of us really working to be officers know that it is a difficult position to maintain. Juggle that with PT, classes and jobs and families. Yeah, it will be tough. We've banded together in the hopes that we are elected to our desired positions. If not, we will continue to work behind the scenes to aid and assist our class officers and our classmates.

It is a tough job that I want.

The cadets don't have to like me for doing it, but I hope they respect me for it just the same.

Go Brown Go!

2010-01-19T08:47:00.001-08:00

FTW!

Couldn't Catch a Break...

2009-12-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

Ha! The Justice Department couldn't catch a dose of the clap without making sh** up. This is vindication for those 5 Blackwater contractors who've been living in limbo these past months.

A good way to start the New Year for these men and their families.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-24T06:57:00.000-08:00

And unto us a Savior is born.

Merry Christmas from Windage, Swede, Shooter and the rest of the Shooter Family.

MANBEARPIG!

2009-12-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

Snow here in Houston today. Started about 8am. Lil' Windage is playing in the front yard at Grandma's since everyone seems to be in a MANBEARPIG Global Warming panic today.

My only thought on this snow day is: Gee, I'm glad Jim Cantore from the Weather Channel is here in December and not between the months of June and October.

Being Broke Sucks

2009-12-02T15:58:00.000-08:00

Just thought I should share that with you.

Barely making enough money to scrape by. I'm only able to provide a little pittance of an amount to the bills each month. Getting ready for the Academy in January has taken a huge bite outta my ass with the medical test and psych testing. On top of that, other surprise bills are piling up on me and I can barely keep up. Oh, it gets better. When Academy starts, I have to cut back hours at work so I can find time to study and train. I can already tell this will be a nine month uphill battle.

I feel as if my head is slowly slipping beneath the surface. This is going to be the worst Christmas for me and my family. I cannot even afford to get decent gifts for my wife and child. I have to ask my parents for help on that this year. I'm truly blessed to have them in my life with all the love and support they offer. That is the best blessing this Christmas that I can hope for. It just seems a bit shallower without that tangible gift to give them.

Gobble Gobble!

2009-11-25T14:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Full of Want!

2009-11-14T08:52:00.001-08:00

I don't care who you are, them's some nice shoes. Daddy want!

Gutless Fucking Coward

2009-11-05T20:39:00.000-08:00

Posted without comment.

Awesome Shooty Goodness!

2009-10-18T21:06:00.001-07:00

Shot the Warrior Support Match on Saturday. Couldn't ask for a better day of shooting. I shot like shit, but still, a great day of shooting. Also got some shooty goodness prizes. You know the box of ammo you win in a drawing is covered in 'awesome sauce' when it has "Varmint Grenade" on the label.

Anyway, thanks to all who serve our great nation, and thanks to all who supported our mission to provide needed equipment to them. I'll post an AAR later. Here's a couple of pics:

Piss In My Cheerios Why Don't You!

2009-09-29T13:26:00.001-07:00

HPD came back and upheld the rejection. Something tells me I wouldn't have gone 2-for-2 on appeals anyway. If I really want HPD, then I have to wait a year before applying again.

It sux, but I'm moving forward. Now, if my family will quit trying to undermine my efforts with threats about failed marriages and assaults on my self-esteem I will be allright.

Next step is a private academy for my TCLEOSE basic peace officer certification. That should help my efforts.

I'll keep you posted.

Pulling My Head Out

2009-09-28T09:59:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I was reminded of my wedding vows. I was reminded because I wasn't living up to my end of the contract I made with my wife before God, family and friends. I'm such a dumbass.

Today I'll be pulling my head outta my ass and getting back to the task at hand.

Waiting Game

2009-09-16T09:53:00.001-07:00

Getting sick of the waiting game. Just had another meeting with the PD regarding my job references. All they asked was for me to explain being fired from three jobs and a bunch of other softball questions. I hope and pray that they like my answers enough to keep me in the applicant pool for the next academy. I should know more at the end of the month.

Tried out for another smaller department two weeks ago. Aced the POST test with nothing less than a 90%. The physical was a joke for me, too. Timed 1.5 mile run in 16:43 (2 minutes slower than my SEAL PT pace), :16 seconds for an agility run (Illinois Shuffle <:19 secs.), one rep bench press at 135# or 67% body weight, 15.5 inch vertical jump or better, 19 pushups, 300m sprint under 75 seconds (I finished at 60 seconds). There were 50 people in the written test, and 25 of us made it to the physical. I was stopped at the application process for the same reasons HPD is giving me grief. The drug issue is a major no-no for this PD. The recruiter told me that a) it was a Class B misdemeanor, and b) a health, safety and quality of life issue that the chief will not sign a waiver for. The job issue was a timeline thing. Last one was June 2008. So, on both parts I have to wait at least 5 years before applying with them again. I can do that.

That was a class act department. They spent more time and money making sure their officers were healthy than any in the region. They claim to have more training related injuries than OTJ injuries. Everyone from the chief on down has to pass the same physical test that I took every year. They test monthly, and everyone is invited to join, but only one counts, or they lose their job. That simple. A department that hires nutritionists and physical training specialists for their department. I think they want strong people working for them. Maybe they'll see me again in 5 years.

I've been lazy, I know. I still have 7 days of SEAL PT Bootcamp to lay out for you. I'll get to it as soon as I can. Been chasing around different departments here in town trying to get applications in. I do have a fallback set up if HPD falls through. I did apply to the local university's law enforcement academy. If HPD is a bust (and I pray it is not) I will start taking the night academy 5 days a week for nine months. That will get my TCLEOSE certification and make me a Texas Peace Officer. I'll have more clout when applying to other agencies then, and more time behind the jobs and drug issues.

October is almost here, and that means the "Warrior Support Match" is upon us. I'd appreciate more donations from the blogworld if possible. I've seen a few trickle in and I appreciate it. I also have a 'matching' sponsor lined up. He will match all donations I receive until the day of the match. Every little bit you provide will go directly to a sponsored unit in Iraq or the 'stan. None of the money raised goes to overhead costs. Everything from the prizes to the range are donated for the match. Hit the 'Donate Now' button at the sidebar if you want. Please pass this on to your friends, too.

Rejected Again

2009-08-21T13:07:00.001-07:00

This is getting to be ridiculous. Just when I think everything is going my way, BLAMMO! I get blindsided by some B.S.

Just received another letter from the PD. My application is rejected again. This time for employment references. Whatever the heck does that mean? Did my past work history not meet a specific criteria? Did someone bad-mouth me at a job where I was fired? What? Speak to me, people!

I'm going to get the appeal out this weekend and let the chips fall where they may...again. I haven't even begun to fight, yet.

Support Our Troops - A Bleg

2009-08-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...I owe you about 7 more days of SEAL PT Boot Camp suffering and misery. To tell the truth, every time I come back to the keyboard, I get a little woozy. Promises, promises.

One of my Boot Camp brethren (who graduated Class 155! HOOYAH, J!) was excited to find my blog, but disappointed to find only three days worth of reading. I think he was trying to gain an advantage. Can't say as I blame him. Way to use his noggin' to get the advantage over the instructors.

I digress. I do that a lot.

I want to do a bleg for something that is near and dear to my heart. The Warrior Support Match is in its second year. On October 17th, 60 men and women will get together at the Impact Zone in Waller, TX to shoot a charity 3-gun match. I participated last year and came in somewhere around the bottom of the pack. I don't care, I had a great time. Also won a Ken Onion Leek knife from Kershaw. I also donated one of my Camillus bush knives to the door prize table and saw it go to a good home.

The Warrior Support Match is the chance for us to raise money to purchase equipment and needed supplies for our men and women fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each and every dollar collected goes straight to the purchase of necessary items. Comp-Tac, our primary sponsor, puts up the shipping cost, and other donors and sponsors donate time, money and other essentials so we can shoot and have fun. This keeps the overhead costs to zero and allows for more equipment to be purchased and shipped over.

Here's what Instructor Greg has to say about it:

For the last few years we have been sending gear to our troops in Iraq and Afganistan. They tell us what they need and we get it to them. We have been shocked to find that EOD guys need nomex (fire proof) jackets and that troops on the ground need reliable magazines for their hand guns. And every soldier needs to know that the folks back home are supporting them. Berretta M9 magazines, nomex, lights, knives, slings, coffee and bore snakes are some of the requests. The suppliers generally offer deep discounts, which adds 10% to 100% more gear to each shipment. I pay for the shipping to Iraq. There are no overhead costs. When our contacts rotate home, we find new ones. All our Iraq
contacts are either personal friends of ours, or vouched for by people we trust. All the gear goes to the troops. The fact I receive thank you notes from individual soldiers confirms this.

That's it in a nutshell. I'm just asking for some help covering my entry fee. I've pledged $200 to secure my slot in this match. I'll be damned if I can't go because I can't raise the money. Times are tough for us all, and it is all I can do to scrounge the ammo up to compete in this match. If you are of a mind to hit the Tip Jar at the top right of my page, I'd greatly appreciate it. Don't know what I can do to repay you, but I will do so on this site. I'm not asking for a lot from you, but every bit helps. Please pass this on and link so that the word is spread. We are of a like mind, and want nothing more that to see our troops have the tools they need to win the fight and come home safe.

Recipients of last year's donations. Over $15,000 was collected to help outfit this Air Cav unit with pistol and rifle magazines, socks, bore snakes, dip, beef jerky, Leatherman multi-tools, etc.

We were also able to provide Nomex jackets to an EOD unit over there. Something as simple as fire protection left out of their TO&E. They ask, and we make sure they receive. So can you, if you hit the donate button on the toolbar.Just because we don't hear about it on the news as often doesn't mean the soldiers aren't still fighting in a foreign land. They need our help and support.

The Only Easy Day Was Yesterday!

2009-07-13T18:52:00.000-07:00

DAY 3 - 0500 - Today is the day I'm fired as class leader. I went down in a fantastic blaze of glory. I took down the entire class, too.

Remember how I mentioned the class leader is responsible for formation and head count before Instructor Walston arrives? Well, guess who didn't set aside his ego long enough to think straight and get the damn job done? Yup, yours truly.
We were stretching in the parking lot just a couple feet from our usual formation spot. Walston comes blazing up in his truck and we rush to our places. We barely beat him to the punch, but were in the wrong spot. That got us some pushups. I should have known it was going to get worse when the instructor I refer to as 'The Hawk' showed up. This was gonna hurt.

"GET YOUR ASSES TO THE RUGBY FIELD, NOW!!!"

After DAY 2, I could not lift my arms above my head. Heck, getting them up to shoulder level was a massive chore. Never in my time with SEAL PT did I ever think I would do so much.

We ran to the field and proceeded to start what I refer to as the "Rugby Field Death March, Pt. 2." Start in the same position, right face, start crawling.

I got about 75 yards when the fun really began.

"WHAT'S THE COUNT, CLASS LEADER!?" Instr. Walston barked.

"UNKNOWN, INSTRUCTOR!" I replied.

I didn't have the count, and got reamed for it. Both Walston and the Hawk were on me from the get. The lesson was very clear. I was fired as class leader for lack of attention to detail. It is a mistake I will never in my life repeat. When someone gives me an order, or job to carry out, I will make sure it is completed. I will ensure that the job is done to Instructor Walston's standards. Not mine.

By the time I crawled to the midfield point, they were through yelling at me. I was uncerimoniously fired by this time. I was pissed off, too. I let the team down for the second straight day. The Hawk didn't let me forget my lesson that easy. He had me drop down and face to the north. By now, I'm on my belly facing back the way I came. "Now roll around the field. And you better not be last today!" he said.

I started doing reverse somersaults down the length of the field. This field has not seen rain in some time. Houston, Tx. was in a drought situation at the time (and still is). The ground was rock hard, torn up and rutted from everyone using the soccer pitch on a daily basis, and filled with detritus that makes me glad my tetanaus was up to date. I could feel the rocks and hard ground with every rotation. I could also feel my equilibrium slipping away. I sucked it up, manned up, and stuffed the nausea back down to complete my task. I have a lot of respect for Instr. Hawk. A lot. I know a bit of that man's personal background, and admire his leadership skills. I wanted to redeem myself in his eyes. I knew I failed him along with my team, and it hurt. I used that energy to get moving.

Instr. Walston walked off to torture the Lifers and Body Camp crew for a while. This left Instr. Hawk to circle above us and strike when necessary. He didn't say a word when I heard Walston from over 200 yards away yell that we had a couple of quitters. Our most timid female in the group just up and walked off. One of the others went with her. At least he paid attention and made sure she was not alone. No one goes anywhere (head, car, surf zone) without a 'swim-buddy.' The other guy did his job and came back when it was clear that Ms. "Mouse" was through. She later stated in an email that Walston intimidated the poo out of her. She wouldn't hear any of our pleas to come back. Done. Fine.

Hawk paid us a treat for finishing the bear crawl. Eight-count body builders. This is his special way of making you pay for your errors. And when one person screws up, everyone pays the price. Twenty 8-counts later and we were thrashed. But the hits just keep on coming. We ran back to our workout mats to grab water. Three seconds after that, we were grouped in three-person teams to fireman carry across the parking lot. Easier said than done.

I tuned out at this point. I was only listening for my name or whatever order the instructors were giving during this evolution. It was better for my group because I found the humor in the situation. I started quietly singing a Navy run cadence to take my mind off the pain in my arms and shoulders. My crew and another next to us joined in the whispered cadence and were chuckling. I'm sure Hawk heard, but he didn't let on. Let us have our moment of defiance, he'll see to us later.
We reached the end of the parking lot. Instr. C was there to give our shoulders further torture. As Walston said before he left, they were to "TORTURE THE PISS OUTTA THEM!" We dropped to the leaning rest. I was still not out of the woods.

I should note that this is where my recollection of events gets reeaaaalll hazy.

Instr. Hawk: "Mr. Shooter, what time is it?"

Me (in the leaning rest, breathing heavily): "Oh-six-fifty-five, INSTRUCTOR!!!"

Hawk: "Wrong answer, try again." He never yells at you. The man always uses a level tone of voice.

Me (staring intently at my watch face willing the numbers to read what I say): "Oh-six-fifty-five, INSTRUCTOR!!!"

Hawk: "Wrong again. Will someone please explain the world to Mr. Shooter?"

Class Gimp (I'll get to him later): "Time is Oh-FIVE-Fifty-Five, Instructor!"

Fifteen minutes later, my vision returns to see Instructor Hawk holding two fingers in my face asking: "How many fingers am I holding up, Dummy?!"

My team later recounted to me that as I recovered with the group to get wet n' sandy, I started to stumble, fall, and babble incoherently. Hawk got me on the ground, head between my legs. Instr. C ran the group through surf zone and got them out of the way. By my watch fifteen minutes had passed. I don't remember any questions or whatever I said in response. Hawk stated that I answered everything correctly, and never lost consciousness. He had me douse with the hose and rest under a small tree for about ten more minutes. After that, he ordered me to either a) move at a pace faster than a crawl, or slower than a jog, or b) slowly walk back to the PT area. Those were my only choices, so I took 'em. I opted for B. It took me a long time to walk back. I stopped to dry heave once, and one more time to rest against a bollard (short wooden pole). When I rejoined the group, every eye was on me. I was ordered to sit down and drink water. Every time Hawk checked on me, I asked to return to the group. He put me through a couple of balance tests to judge my recovery and I failed each one. "Sit down before you fall down," he instructed.

(yeah, that's me on my butt after 'bonking'. the grey shirt is Instr. Chang, our shoulder expert)

As he later recounted to me in an email, Hawk said I'm lucky this wasn't a real world exercise. As a SEAL, he's seen this before and advised I'd have been given oral glucose, smelling salts, and a rectal thermometer. Yeah, I don't think I want that sort of treatment. Per him, this is what happens when you are at a low fitness level and high motivation level. It didn't dawn on me to eat a proper breakfast before workout. My usual during Body Camp was a large glass of water and vitamins. From now on, I was ordered to eat a banana and a granola bar (something with oats in it for the carbs). It helped.

I'm not proud of that day at all. I pushed too hard and went 'bonk.' Didn't really scare me, or panic me at all. I didn't know what happened until afterwards. It was a big wake-up for me, though. This is what happens when I don't focus and go too hard. This was a lesson that will help me in the police academy. I have Instructor Hawk to thank.

The team was glad I made it through. They were worried for the most part, and so was I.

I should have called in sick to work for the day, but that would have been admitting failure. I didn't get any work done because my stomach was so topsy-turvy and my brain was mush. I came back for DAY 4 stronger and ready for whatever came down the pipe. Bring it, Walston. I'm ready.

HOOYAH!

Class 154 - Crash Test Dummies

2009-07-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

SEAL PT Boot Camp has come and gone for the month of June. I'm still alive, but barely. It seems that if you don't eat a good breakfast before a hard workout, you will pass out, or go nug bucking futs loopy for the better part of an hour....or day in my case.

DAY 1 - 0400 - Woke up, donned my workout clothes, headed to Memorial Park. Got there about thirty minutes before class was supposed to start. Okay, so far so good. Bunch of folks there, some I didn't know, some I did. We stretched and those that were in 'Gators with me helped get the rest in some sort of line before Instr. Walston and crew showed up.
0500 - Hell. Breaks. Loose. Instructor Walston was on us like a cheap suit. Barking out orders to drop. Push out some pushups, turn around, bear crawl (this will be our 'favorite' exercise in coming days) to the treeline, bear crawl back. More pushups. Run the length of the parking lot. SPRINT!!!! Sit ups. SPRINT!!! Now comes the fun part: Get wet n' sandy.

Getting wet n' sandy entails a full-speed run to the water hoses some 300-ish yards away. There, we are met by Instr. C. He is a white-shirt training under Walston's tutelage to become a Navy SEAL. He is very good. He's been in the program a while and is every part the poster child for the Navy. White T-shirt, black shorts, does his pushups ramrod straight. He orders us down on our backs for some flutter kicks. Never mind that the ground is soaking wet and about three inches deep mud and muck. Thirty of us get in tight and bust out our 20 three-count flutter kicks. All the time, Instr. C is hosing us with some cool water. He yells to get on our stomachs. Face down we go and bust out some more pushups. By this time, the weak and uninitiated are feeling the pain of the pushups. They struggle through. We get threatened with more suffering if they don't commit and push 'em out. Mind you, there is a hose pelting us in the face, back, legs, chest with cold water. It's not even light out yet. The Dunkin' Donuts haven't been made. Now...GET SANDY!!!! HURRY UP!!! RUN!!
About 100 yards distant is the volleyball pit. Our little slice of Coronado. The beach. Full. Of. Sand. Run all out, drop down and get sand in every crack and crevice you can find. Help the sorority sisters out by dumping sand on them. Help the CPA get bigger handfuls.

I made the fatal mistake of opening my big mouth to motivate everyone and try to educate on proper 'get sandy' technique. This brought the ire of Instructor H. Since there are two Instructor Hs, I'll call him Instructor Mouth (he loves the sound of his own voice). Instr. M has now dubbed me "Chatty Cathy," cuz I can't stop trying to help my classmates get sandy. I am also named class leader. This is not good.

We line up in two lines to run back to the PT area. We are covered head to toe in sand. Yes, it gets everywhere. Yes, it is annoying. We learn fast to block it out. This is all a mental exercise to see how we deal with the discomfort. This is only the first 30 minutes of an hour-and-a-half workout.

We are subjected to more of the same torture and suffering that went on the first thirty minutes. Bear crawls, pushups, sit ups, jumping jacks, cromwells, you name it. In between it all, we sprint the parking lot. Instructor Walston is there the entire class to instruct us on proper form for each exercise. He also yells, motivates and finds unique ways to harangue us during the workout. He lets the second Instr. H lead us through some sprint exercises for the last ten minutes of class. Loser drops and does 25 pushups.

The sprints are where it all goes wrong for our class. One of our crew was running flat out in his race against our resident gazelle and tripped on his own feet. The only two body parts to hit the pavement first were his eyebrow and cheekbone. He tore a gash in his head about four inches across as he slid across the pavement to a stop. He refused ambulance service, we patched him up with a first aid kit from my truck, and carted him off to his house.*

* I saw him back in 'Gators last week. He healed up nicely.

DAY 2 - 0500 - "HOOYAH, INSTRUCTOR WALSTON" is our new morning greeting. Back for more, we are. Here is where we get our uniform shirts and whatever else we ordered when we signed up for the class. Lots of yelling and screaming for us to hurry up and put on the shirts. Some of the girls were being dainty about it, but they mustered through when no one else seemed perturbed by the immodesty of exposing their jog bra to the elements. While everyone else waits, those in line for shirts do arm circles non-stop. Those just getting gear don it and drop for pushups. At no time do we rest. At most, we get 3 or 4 seconds to gulp water at 45 minutes into our workout. Every other time is spent doing some exercise or evolution. It never ends. It drains you mentally and physically for that entire class.

Now we get introduced to the rugby field. This will be our friend for the next couple of days. I will not like it. Why, you ask? Funny thing about being class leader...I'm responsible for the head count and proper formation. Neither of which I had this particular day. Yeah, we got dropped for that faux paus. Bear crawled over 100 yards first thing.

Once we were squared away, and our very own 'white shirt' Mr. Taylor received his gear (20# weight bar/"SAW", H Harness with weights in every pack and pouch) it was on to the field. What started out as a simple running exercise turned into a goat rope about three laps in. Here's the evolution: Start at one end of the field and do XX number of whatever exercise we were told. Sprint to the end and do XX number of the next exercise Instr. Walston says. Repeat. We got through about 5 laps before Instr. Walston blew his stack. Mind you, it is completely dark on this field. We have a hard time seeing each other. Out of our thirty we are down to 25, and of those 25 there are a handful of friends I call the 'Sorority Sisters.' Well, one of the debutantes of "Delta, Delta, Delta" kept asking Instructor Walston what the next exercise was as she passed by him in the dark.
Not too hard to miss in the dark. He's standing smack-dab in the middle of the field yelling at us.

So, where was I? Oh yeah, sorority girl asks, and Instr. Walston promptly blows his stack. Heck, my daddy never yelled at me the way this man does. And Walston doesn't swear, either. He had us all line up on the goal line and drop. We are berated for being dumb enough to ask the instructor about exercises when we should have learned NOT TO DO SO. While in the leaning rest we 'right face' and start bear crawling. I got about 120 yards before I heard Instr. Walston hand off to Instr. T (the Hawk) and tell him to keep us crawling. No reason for me to continue here. We bear crawled the circumfrence of that entire rugby field. I mean the whole damn thing. Three. Hundred. Sixty. Yards. On our hands and feet. I was dead last. My swim buddy, Ms. Mandy, actually crawled back to me (some 150 yards after she finished) to motivate me. I was back on the far goal line by this time crying. I was in severe pain. I was not going to quit. My shoulders were on fire and my back was killing me. Ms. Mandy kept right beside me doing everything in her power to get me to move faster. At times, I went down to my elbows and shuffled forward some more. I stopped for 10 or more seconds at other times (still had 80 yards or so to go). Each time I went down, Ms. Mandy kept right on yelling. I finished while the others waited, cheering me on, in the leaning rest (pushup position).

That took us to the final sprint down to the "Surf Zone" to get wet and sandy for the last evolution. Thankfully, the last evolution was pushups and sit ups before leaving.

Just writing this made my shoulders ache. I'll regale you with the famous DAY 3 tomorrow.

HOOYAH!

Catching Up

2009-07-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

WOW! Been a while. Need to clear up a few things before we continue.

I'm still here, first of all. Don't worry, haven't shoved off for that non-extradition country just yet.

We'll start with most recent dealings first and work back.

Windage and Swede are already in Sweden for a ten day holiday with the folks. Just linked up on Skype this morning (evening for them). Lil' bit handled the flight over like a pro. Swede was thankful for other passengers with lil' tots on the flight. That's one flight down, one more to go. I can breathe easier for now.
Thursday last was Windage's first birthday. We were to celebrate over the 4th of July weekend, but she popped a 101.2 fever hours before the party. A cold brought on by teething has run its course through our household. Put me off my feed for the better part of the week. Swede is still a bit out of sorts, too.
Got good news on Windage's birthday. Sort of an added bonus. Received a call from my HPD Background Investigator. It's official, the background investigation has commenced. Bad news, the next academy class is still listed as March 2010. I'm still praying for a government bailout.
Still plugging away at dad's office as a part-time law clerk. Been fun for the most part. Only work four days a week and take care of Windage all day Friday. Got an interesting case they are working on, and it takes everyone to stay on top of it.
Started the Lifers program with SEAL PT. Starts thirty minutes earlier in the AM, still an hour long, they run a bit farther and harder. Added bonus, they have a six week swim program. The downside is it is only one morning a week. I'd prefer two or three. We're broken into three groups; Rock, Fish, & Duck. Guess which category I fall into?
Boot Camp was a huge success. I will detail a day-by-day post in a bit with photos. Not as bad as I thought or stressed about even though I'm told I didn't lose consciousness on Day 3, but was loopy as hell.

That's it in a nutshell. I now return you to your regular programming.

HOOYAH!

2009-05-31T17:34:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning is where all hell breaks loose. I start SEAL PT Boot Camp. I'm excited. I've been in the Body Camp program since February getting in shape for whichever police academy hires me first (*fingers crossed for HPD). I decided to do it after Swede offered to pay for my next six weeks of workout at the end of April. Better to keep motivated and exercising than sitting on my butt all day.

Instructor Walston will kick it off by kicking our butts. We get to experience everything the SEALS go through during BUD/S phase 1. Only less so. As I read somewhere on the site, we only experience about 20% of what SEALS go through during Hell Week. We do it for 10 days straight. I'm just doing it for the t-shirt and bragging rights really. I feel confident about my fitness level, and now just want to see if my mental game is as strong as I think it is.

I'll blog it daily to let you know what goes on. That is, if my arms don't fall off from the push ups.

This Weekend Is Not About The Mattress Sales...

2009-05-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

Nor is it about the Indy 500.

To all who currently serve, our thanks and appreciation.

To all who have served, our appreciation and respect.

To all who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms, God Bless You.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
— Lt.-Col. John McCrae (1872 - 1918)

Boot Camp

2009-05-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

Just 10 more days before I start Boot Camp. I'm getting excited now. Starting at 5am, June 1st, I'll be busting my arse with several other men and women who think they've got what it takes to get in shape.

There's no reason I can't do this. I've been getting up early five days a week to work out with this crew since February. What started out as a 3 month plan to get in shape for the police academy has become an addiction. No lie! This is my new crack. I feel better about myself, have more energy, and can fit a pair of Wranglers I haven't squeezed into in over five years. Who wouldn't want to do this?

Some people tell me I'm crazy for getting up early to have a former SF Operator/Instructor yell at me to do push-ups, or 8 count body-builders, or skull-crushers. It is not crazy. I get more benefit from a structured setting such as this. We work as a team in some respects to complete exercises, and it helps to have someone cheering you on and pushing you past your comfort zone.

For instance: Wednesday was a running day. The only way out of running (it can be miserable if you don't have any breaks) was to hold the push-up position while doing "xylophone push-ups." Those are push-ups where everyone is in a large circle and one person starts with one push-up. The second person follows with one, and so on and so forth until everyone does one. Then they go to two. And three, four...all the way to ten. In the meantime, you are in the up push-up position waiting your turn. We were allowed to get our butts in the air to relieve pressure on our backs, or butts down (think cobra pose in yoga). Anyone who went to their knees had to run. Slowly but surely, people started to fall out and run. It probably took twenty minutes to complete the evolution, but it felt like an eternity. Out of the 30 Lifers and 8 Navigators (of which I am one) I was the only 'Gator left with seven other Lifers.

This was a prime example of the instructor getting us out of our personal comfort zones. At any other time, I might have dropped and started running, too. I didn't want to run, and wanted to see how I stacked up against the Lifers, some of whom run marathons for fun. It was a huge personal challenge for me, and to hear the instructor single me out for whatever reason meant I was doing something right. I even remember as my shoulders were burning from exertion how my Navigator teammates were cheering for me as they passed us on their run. The rest of the hour was spent doing wind sprints and ab or chest exercises between sprints. I was so buoyed by my success, that the sprints were a breeze. Yeah, it was exhausting, but it was well worth it. To see how far I could push my body before it could go no more is part of the reason why I get up in the morning.

Sixteen weeks into this program I am seeing huge results. While it is only a core muscle program, I do see better definition on my body (even though the beer gut hasn't been signifigantly reduced), less fat and more muscle mass. I mentioned increased energy and alertness, too. Getting out of my comfort zone wasn't too hard in the beginning, I was only trying to keep up. Now, I'm working just as hard to stay interested at times. We have a new instructor a couple of days a week. While I see the method to his madness, I fail to gain any physical benefit from his workouts. I feel a bit cheated, but get the benefit of his guidance nonetheless. He has been working more to instruct us in proper technique this past week over heavy exercise. I feel a bit gipped when I return to my car and my shirt isn't soaked through. I know he's teaching more to the few of us gearing up for Boot Camp so we don't fall flat on our faces, or get injured.

Boot Camp is going to be 10 times worse according to the Lifers who've gone before. I can expect to get wet and sandy every day for 10 days. I will be yelled at and dropped for the smallest of errors. We will run 3 to 4 miles daily with 10 pound packs on our backs. According to the program's founder, we will only be operating at 20% of what real SEALS go through in training. It will be a non-stop meat grinder. I will graduate the program.

I plan on daily blog posts with pics to give you a sense of what goes on. I encourage you to check out the website, or, if you are in New York or Houston, check out the program for yourself. If you are looking to ramp up your workout, this would be a great place to start. The biggest worry for me was if I'd be able to keep up. After I got through the first couple of weeks and minor aches and pains, I was impressed at how quickly I improved.

HOOYAH!

Moving Forward...No Lie!

2009-04-28T19:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, haven't received the letter, but I got an email from my recruiter at HPD. My application rejection was overturned on appeal. Now, I'm on to the next phase in the application process...polygraph. I got as far as filling out that paperwork before getting the dreaded "Bah-Bye" Letter from HPD.

The recruiter passed my file on to a supervisor for assignment to a polygraph examiner. So, in a couple of weeks I should be hooked up to the machine to see if I'm a truthful guy or not. I know I am. This shouldn't be too hard. I think the nerves of a polygraph exam come from the fact I've never taken one, and I have no idea what to expect. Various sources have told me it is a mental drain, and the examiner will do everything he/she can to trip you up. It is their job to do so.

I'm not gonna rush ahead like I did last time. Next is polygraph. When I'm through that phase, good or bad, I'll update on here.

Keep praying for me.

PT Update

2009-04-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

So, I figured I need to update ya'll on my SEAL PT progress.

To date, I've dropped at least thirty pounds. Yes, you can really tell, too. I've got a pair of 13MWZ Wranglers I haven't worn in 5 years. I was able to put them on at week 8 and have room to move. Didn't feel like I was stuffing twenty pounds of knackwurst into a 2 pound sack. My suits all fit again. That makes going to job fairs and meetings with my police recruiters much more comfortable.

Along with the weight, the obvious shrinkage in the waist as I mentioned. More muscle tone, too. I need to include some weights with my workout. All we do is body weight exercise. Not that it is bad, but I'm to the point in the workout where I crave more at the end. It's like I didn't do enough even though I busted ass and ran out of breath again.

On top of that, Swede does enjoy the new me. She thinks my legs are looking sexy. There is also a mental change, too. I'm more focused and alert. My attitude has changed for the better. I'm not as depressed being unemployed as I was last go round. I've even managed to go back to church. Body, mind and now spirit are coming back into focus for me.

Not to get all preachy, but I have brought Jesus back into my life. I don't think I've been to church on a regular basis since sophomore year in college. And that was for a couple of weeks during Lent. Mom about flipped when I told her I went to the 8am Mass at my new parish. I think dad is having a pacemaker installed this week because of the news. With all that has transpired with HPD and Harris County Sheriff's Office, my life needed some help.

It does help. There's just a bit more focus to my mind and a spring to my step during the day. Joining the PT group was the best thing for me. It was too many years too late. I should have done this a long time ago.

As for the job hunt, I'll update progress as I know more. Still delayed with HPD, and HCSO has me scheduled for a polygraph on May 4th. When I get further, I'll update.

-out

Review Board

2009-04-13T06:27:00.000-07:00

I'm going in front of the HPD review board this morning. In a couple of hours, I have to present my case as to why I should be allowed to complete the application process and be admitted to the next academy.

My nerves are shot. I feel like I did last week when I caught that nasty stomach bug. It doesn't help that the nice ladies at the golden arches gave me a flat coke this morning with my chicken biscuit.

Hey, MattG, LawDog, do you guys have any advice for a guy trying to break into the biz?

I'll update when I know more. May be a couple more weeks.

UUUGGGGHHHH!

2009-03-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

Just received a call from my recruiter with HPD. My application has been rejected and I'm getting what is affectionately referred to as a "F*** You Letter" sent next week explaining why.

The rejection is able to be appealed, and I will be doing that at the strong recommendation of my recruiter. I won't get into detail except to say it could have happened to anyone else in my position.

Yeah, I'm bummed out. Downright pissed off is a more accurate term. I've been training hard to exceed HPD's physical fitness requirements. That is going to end at the end of May. I need to find work to be able to pay bills and keep up with my training. Fast! I've been excited as all get out that I may be in the May or June academy class. That all changes now.

I don't know how long I this will set me back, but I'm pressing on. I've got another test with Harris County Sheriff's Office next week, and will be looking at applying to a couple more agencies in the meantime. We'll see where the appeal leads me with HPD. It is my hope that they will see past the reason for rejection and continue forward with my application. Class 207 or 208 may not be in the cards, but who wants to go through PT in the middle of summer anyway? Give me some cooler weather to work in, I'm ready.

I'll keep you posted. Wish me luck.

Forward March!

2009-03-12T09:50:00.000-07:00

Second time is the charm today, baby!

I cleared the Physical Agility Test for HPD this morning. Went in bright and early and ran it cold. Skipped my morning PT workout with the group hoping that would be to my benefit. It helped. It also helped that I was in better shape. I wasn't as winded after this run. I also cleared the sit-ups without problem. And, yes, I didn't trip over the wall this time!

I ran the stairs in 13.35 seconds. The 800' run was done in 1:10, and I did the push-ups and sit-ups in 1:30. It really is easier than it looks. I let my mind and body get in the way last time. This was really easy for me. Now, I just have to get my 1.5 mile run time down.

This is where my recruiter and I part ways. From here, I go on to the polygraph exam, medical/psych, and drug screen. After I clear poly, the Background Investigator picks up my file packet and starts questioning my neighbors and friends about my past history. This is where my nerves really kick in. Not that I'm worried about my past, but worried about what others will say about me. We'll see where it goes.

This is going to be a long couple of months. If all goes well I should be in the May academy class. This whole time, I thought I'd be headed to the June class. Nice to know that things are speeding up.

What's Wrong With Me?!?

2009-03-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

Somewhere between 30 degrees and buttarsefreezingcold* this AM and I'm out there running 3 miles of windsprints (what the instructor calls "Indian Sprints") and doing countless push-ups until my arms fall off.

Hate to say it, but I liked being out in the cold this morning. Had I not pinched the rear tube in my bike, I'd have put in another 20 miles on the froot loop for good measure. Now, I wasn't totally bundled up, but the cold necessitated I take measures. I was wearing a hoodie. But I took that off in the first half mile of the run.

Tomorrow should be warmer.

*H/T to Tam for enduring a Midwest winter. I've put in my share on the shores of Lake Michigan and know the true definition of cold. That being said, we, down here in Texas, consider cold to be cold when the weatherweenie says to cover your tomato plants.

Skinny Minnie!

2009-02-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

WOW! All I can say after stepping on the scale this AM. I have dropped down to 254# from 270# since starting SEAL PT in the morning. That's 16 pounds since the beginning of February. Today, we completed a 4.6 mile run along with several hill sprints in the middle of it. I still walked a good portion of that run, but I didn't quit altogether.

I'm amazed at myself for being able to push through pain and push my body to new limits. Last week and the week before were the worst for me. Bursitis in my right knee almost forced me to quit the program. I muscled up, rested as much as possible, and kept at it. I took a couple of days off to rest when I felt the worst, but didn't stop. The bursitis is gone, and I'm feeling much better on the runs. Now, my bigger concern is increasing VO2 max, traditional sit-ups, and completing a 300 yard sprint in under 80 seconds.

I failed the first Physical Agility Test with HPD. That was a miserable experience. I cleared the two flight stair run easily enough. I missed the 300yd. sprint by about 10 seconds. Just couldn't get enough air in my lungs by the fourth lap. That, and I tripped over the 3.5' wall. That cost me about another five seconds. After walking a cool down lap, they got me to do 6 push-ups and 20 sit-ups in 2:00 minutes. The push-ups were the easy part. I strapped into a sit-up bench to bust out 20 traditional (hands behind my head) sit-ups and could only get 10. Let me have someone stand on my feet and put my arms across my chest, and I'll give you twenty easy. This was more leg strength and gut than I am used to. Heck, that morning, I easily did over 100 sit-ups and 100 more push-ups with the group. I didn't feel bad, or over exerted (sp?) when I got to that point in the PAT, but I just couldn't muster up the reserves to get my 20. I think my hanging gut had some part in it, and at the time, my bursitis was at its peak. I ran the test sans knee brace and the legs were tHrObBiNg! I let my mind get in the way and affect my performance.

Tomorrow, Swede and I are taking a trip to the track for some sprints and to time my 300yard run. We'll see where I stand and do what it takes to improve. As the weight sloughs off, I will be able to increase my speed. I'm also working on my VO2max by cycling after my workouts. That will also build leg strength against a recurrence of bursitis.

I take the next PAT in a couple of weeks. Barring any surprises, I should be able to complete the PAT this time around. I know what to expect. After that, I review my polygraph application with the recruiter, schedule that, medical, psychological and a drug screen. If all goes well, I hope to get into the June academy class.

I know I can do this. I will do this. It is my dream to become a police officer. I've done enough for my family and it cost me two decent jobs that I was moderately happy at. The last job gave me more gray hair and less money in the bank. Now it is time to do something I want, be happy at it, be good at it, and provide for my family, too. I went about a career track the wrong way and was not happy. Now, I plan on being just a bit selfish in my job quest so I don't suffer and neither does my family.

Next Round

2009-02-17T15:45:00.001-08:00

So, I'm through the preliminary interview with HPD. That was a LOOOONG six hours of my life I'll never get back. Had to answer a lot more questions and in more detail than I thought. It is amazing what you start to remember when a prospective employer asks you for the specifics of your life.

Right now, I'm in the process of gathering up the rest of the documentation they require. I am waiting on Marquette to send my transcripts, and just ordered copies of another school transcript from one summer class I took between freshman and sophomore year in Houston. The credit report is forthcoming, too.

Once I have all the required paperwork in hand, I will sit for the next interview. We'll see where it goes from there.

I never did get to the physical agility test. Had to get my body composition test out of the way first since I was not within the height/weight guidelines on the department's website. I passed with 21% body fat. Guess the workout in the AM is paying off. I'm even down to 260# and feeling physically better. I'd like my runs to be more productive, but that will come later with more exercise and weight loss. I'd also like to get this kink out of my right leg. It's been annoying me since last week when we did two three mile runs back-to-back (thanks, Lifers, for the wrong information!). I took today off and gave my legs a rest. It seems to help today, and hope it helps tomorrow. We shall see.

As long as everything checks out, I will proceed from this next interview to the Agility Test, Psych Eval, Medical Eval, Polygraph and get approved for the academy. I don't know which academy date I will get into, but guess I'm right on time for the June academy.

Friday the 13th

2009-02-11T18:22:00.000-08:00

I meet with the Houston Police Recruiter on Friday the 13th at 9am on the 13th floor of Police HQ. Is that an omen of things to come?

I hope not.

I've got my background info application and a list of documents I need to get together for Friday. I don't expect to have it all (transcripts and birth certificate) right away, but will have at least 90% ready for them. I am expected to take the PAT (physical agility test) on the same day, too. That should be easy to complete. My only worry is my upper body strength and doing sit-ups. They require 6 push-ups and 20 sit ups in 2:00 minutes. I'll be coming from my SEAL PT workout that morning, so I will be warmed up.

I'll fill you in on the details after the interview. Wish me luck.

HOOYAH!!!

2009-02-05T18:50:00.000-08:00

So, I mentioned previously that I'm getting back into shape.

I up and decided that 'pear' or 'round' is not a shape I am content with. Part of my New Year's Resolution is to get back on my bike and to lose weight. A lot. Preferably 50#.

Last Friday, I signed up for SEAL PT in Memorial Park in Houston. I'm not in the real SEAL PT course, but in the Bodycamp course. Just a small step down from the SEAL PT group. They run more. I only run when chased.

This is not a bunch of mambly-pambly people pretending to go through some motions. We pay for the privilege to have some former SF guys PT us into shape. You have to be dedicated to getting in shape and exercising. Otherwise, you will FAIL yourself and this course (I think it helps that there's no refund if you quit).

I signed up for three months of Bodycamp and will complete my first full week on Friday morning at O-dark-thirty. Here's the thing, I don't mind getting up at 5a.m. to workout at the park. I really believed I'd be dreading it by Wednesday when everyone I bragged to told me I'd be most sore. So what if I couldn't scratch my nose for three days?

What has kept me away from a formal training program for so long is that I don't do well as a self-motivator. Sure, I can ride a bike all day long and not worry, but I don't count that as 'exercise.' The word 'exercise' brings to my mind a weight room or gym with people climbing imaginary stairs and running in place. Don't even bother with free weights. I feel outclassed by guys in that section who should belong on Venice Beach, or in a prison weight yard, they are so huge. There's no discipline, no motivation in it for me to workout at a Bally's or 24hour Fitness. Left to my own devices, I'll half-ass a workout and call it a day.

SEAL PT is different. These instructors aren't the 'in-your-face' Drill Instructor type. They don't yell and browbeat you to death. They are all former operators from the various SF disciplines. My instructor today was former Navy CSAR (Combat Search And Rescue). Others are from the SEAL community, and still others are former Rangers and Army SF. Very quiet and reserved these men are. They keep the tempo of the workout high. We barely have time to stop and catch a breath before moving on to the next 'evolution' or exercise. They don't yell or scream (I thought they would, and was expecting that kind of motivation), but find little ways to encourage us to do more than our minds and bodies want to do. They are the gentle hand that pushes us to the finish line.

It is not in what they say, but how they act. True to form, they lead from the front. We follow. If one of us falls out on a run, they are right there to get us back on pace. Actually, it's whenever I fall out on a run. They are great motivators by their actions alone. In that spirit, everyone else in the group helps to encourage everyone else.

Example: Today's workout was run based. We were at the rugby field in pitch black conditions. Instructors had us doing crunches and some squats before running and sprints. They partnered us up with the regular PT class to do a 50yd sprint to bleachers on the other side of the rugby pitch. There we'd do 20 flutter kicks, or 20 pushups, or pull-ups off the back of the stands, so on and so forth. The exercise changed every time we sprinted. Teammates encouraged us to push harder when we'd get to the bleachers. While waiting to sprint and exercise, they had us doing squats. Like I said, the instructors keep the tempo high. No rest for the wicked and all that.

We teamed up again (8 on 8) to do 75yd sprints. Individuals would take a chem-lite and run to the soccer goal, throw the chem-lite over and pick it up to sprint back. Our team was winning through the halfway point. I don't know where it came from (seeing as I only run when chased, and haven't run for health in over 6 years), but I busted ass and brought our side back to win by a wide margin. Oh, did I mention that while waiting our turn we held our arms out and did windmills? Mentally, that presented a challenge because I thought I'd be too tired from that alone to sprint. Nope, just another obstacle to overcome. Another challenge met and beaten.

This is probably the best program I've been in so far. Sure, my first three days sucked hard. In that time, though, my guns have gone from .177cal to .22lr....maaaayyybeeeee .22mag. My energy level is sky high, too. Body is sore, but that is the good feeling you get from a successful workout. Swede notices a change in my body, too. It is evident. I like the feeling. Nothing like a good endorphin high to get you going for the day. On top of that, I feel better mentally when I work out. I'm not in the best of shape yet, but am getting there faster now. The last exercise phase had us running a lap around the perimeter of two beach volleyball courts and doing an exercise set on the bleachers. All in the sand. I was last, but never quit. I was slow, but persevered. I was pushing my body even when it was telling my mind it wanted to quit. I was glad to see everyone there waiting for me as I belted out the last two reverse incline pushups. That was the toughest, but I was determined to get them done. HOOYAH!

FYI - My primary goal for this program is to be strong enough to pass various physical agility tests from the police departments I am applying to. It is working. The second part is obviously to drop weight. Right now, I couldn't make it into one department because my height/weight ratio is waaaay off. According to them, I should be at about 215-220#. 234# on the high end. I'm eating better. No more hamburgers or fast food. Doing the Jared plan at Subway for lunch. That's about as fast food as I get. Only one soda a day, too. Take my multi-vitamin and a fat burner pill before working out, too.

My current weight is 270#. That's up from 265 when I started on Monday AM. It's to be expected at first. Muscle is replacing fat, and fat is slowly sloughing off. I'm hoping the Hydroxycut will help speed metabolism and lose that fat a bit quicker. I'll make it my plan to give weekly updates on how things are going. I may ask AD for that kewl little weight loss side bar he has.

Moving On

2009-02-05T06:52:00.000-08:00

So, it is about time I move on from this job. It has not panned out, so to speak.

I've been with Brink's Technologies as a Builder Rep for the last six months. It was a good job to start, but the economy and Hurricane Ike took a big bite from my sales. It is tougher than I thought working on straight commission, but I gave 100% of my time and effort to this job. Now, I have to find new digs and fast to keep the household income sufficient to pay our bills. Not that we'd starve or be out in the cold on Swede's pay, but we've got the one extra mouth to feed now.

It will be nice to see some regular hours now. I get to be home at decent hours to see and play with Windage. Even as a LEO, I'm sure I'll have better hours and downtime with my family. As it is now, I am home after 8pm most days, and even on Saturdays and some Sundays. No breaks for me. I have to keep moving to generate income.

What killed me the most was all the money I earned went straight into repairs for my truck. The urban assault vehicle is not what it used to be. Just yesterday, the antenna broke, again. My rear axle is starting to slip on acceleration (bad gears, I think), and I think there's a problem with one of the pistons (knocks and pings).

I've put in applications to a couple of police departments this week. I'm gonna go the route of LawDog and MattG. Hopefully, all will go well and I can make it to an academy class by late summer. I've always had a fascination with the law. When I was younger, I thought following in dad's footsteps would be my goal. Alas, practicing law as an attorney does not appeal. I'm more interested in the practical application of criminal and civil law. I think it is in my nature to be a service-oriented person. To help others that need it, and those that don't.

I'm working very hard to get in physical shape. I started on a workout program designed to help shed pounds to get me in line with height/weight proportions. I'll detail more about that tomorrow.

In the meantime, I have to tie up loose ends, finish some appointments on the schedule, and bite down to sell a couple of guns from the inventory. I'll do whatever I can to save as much of the inventory as I can, but I may even have to sell Swede's Kimber TLE/RL. Hopefully, I can get them back after a time if the Anointed One doesn't clamp down on the 2a. I'll do everything I can to keep the Rock River in the safe. Once I am a licensed peace officer, I think the AR will come in handy.

The Phantom

2009-01-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

I was tooling through some comments at Cranky Prof's site when I came across this little gem. OMFG!!! I haven't pee'd, spewed, or laughed so hard in a long time.

If you are a bit disgruntled at your job, or the economy got you down, give it a read and enjoy.

From Tam's Site: STS 51-L

2009-01-28T12:48:00.001-08:00

Where were you?

I was sitting in Mrs. Gillie's homeroom class in fifth grade. The principal came on the intercom to break the bad news. She placed televisions around the campus so we could see the images. I saw it go bad on my way to the lunchroom.

Start Shopping Now

2009-01-22T19:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas is only 1458 days away and counting.

Sorry Bastard!

2009-01-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

It appears Michael Moore is up to his old tricks with regards to his form of "responsible" journalism." He is accused of using one of Michael Yon's photos for his own purposes. Fox has the story here.

How Embarrassing

2009-01-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

I'm an embarrassment to Barack!

I only scored 17 on the Obama Test

Birthday 3 Gun Match

2009-01-10T19:44:00.000-08:00

Spent today at Impact Zone in Waller. A nice way to spend a post-birthday weekend. This was the monthly 3 gun match, and it was fun. Cold, but fun. A front pushed through this AM and really set the wind a' howling. I'm more windburned than anything else. Still, any day where you can shoot (and there are probably fewer of those days remaining) is a great day. Here are some photos...
This was the final stage. I just blew through the rifle portion. Hey, I was there to have fun. I wasn't worried about rank at this point. Also, my ears froze up about an hour prior. I was ready for Repka's restuarant and a nice chicken fried steak. This stage started with a six shot pistol portion. One shot on each steel pop-up would bring up the cardboard targets. Two on each to neutralize. I cleaned the first target before the second was fully up. I have to brag when I say I ROCKED that part.
Talk about your fast transition. Notice the brass flying past the Range Officer's hand. That was fast. And you'll also notice that I have full retention of both rifle and pistol. Check out that finger in register! Instructor Greg would be very proud. No photoshopping that finger. No sir!
Squared off, lean in, elbows in...yup, I'm on target. Notice the flip up BUIS sights? I was the only one today running iron. A) I'm a bit cheap to buy a decent optic, and B) I don't have the money to spend on one anyway! Still, I think shooting on iron sights only lends a bit of a challenge to the match.
Tight on the cover. Didn't have to move far to hit what I was aiming at. The wind was so bad that they had to disable the swinger/no-shoot target on this stage. I was kinda looking forward to that. Probably why I went wild and lit up the stage, not caring about time or score.
My buddy, Swoop, getting after the shotgun stage. He took my two extra slugs to complete the stage. I would have neutralized both slug targets if he didn't do that. Hey, I don't mind sharing. I did get two mags of Lake City .223 out of the deal. *neener*
I'm usually more tac'd up than this. My one and only day to really geek out and get my Tommy Tacticool on! (You know, 5.11 pants, Under Armour shirt, tactical web gear, holsters, tac boots, etc.) I figured that since it was my birthday on Wednesday, I'd go and do some "Cowboy Tactical." I had the cowboy hat and everything. The wind was blowing too hard for the hat, and I couldn't find my squishy earplugs I prefer wearing outdoors. I had the jeans and the boots on, so that will be close enough. Maybe next time.

Okay, if you're somewhat curious about equipment (and some of you may just not give a rat's pink arse!), here it is:

Oakley polarized sunglasses. Their cheap $90 pair. Work like a charm.
Cheap, mil-surp store shemagh scarf. I've got a dozen of these lying around the house. Greatest thing ever for keeping your neck warm.
Crye Precision vest. Lots of pockets, and lots of room. A big pocket on back for a water reservoir, interior chest pockets, MOLLE webbing, etc.
Mechanix work gloves. Actually kept my hands warm considering it was colder than a well digger's ass and the wind was blowing steady at 20mph+.
The AR is a Rock River from Class 3 Weapons in Houston. Finally got some rail covers on it so my hands wouldn't get chewed up. Mags are all Magpul and stuffed in some Army Surplus store pouches. Sling is a Blackhawk single point. Went back to it after too much fuss with my Blue Force Gear sling. Now, that stays on the G3.
Pistol is Roscoe. A Springfield Armory XD-40 Tactical model. Over 40+K rounds through it and finally replaced the trigger return spring last year. Holstered in a Comp-Tac holster with corresponding double mag holder on opposite hip.

Nevermind

2009-01-10T19:43:00.001-08:00

It was my fault. Hit a wrong key and everything started typing backwards. You may resume normal function.

?nekatsim I mA

2009-01-10T19:24:00.000-08:00

?em tsuj ti si rO ?sdrawkcab sgniht gniod reggolb htiw smelborp gnivah esle enoyna si

The Time Is Now!

2009-01-05T11:31:00.000-08:00

Better start writing those letters and dialing those phones. Michael Bane's lil' minions are starting to speak portents of evil on the horizon. With the conservatives on the ropes, now's the time more than ever to start fighting. The NOBamessiah don't sound like he's messing around.

Happy New Year!

2008-12-29T17:34:00.001-08:00

Hi bloggy peeple! Daddy is letting me play with the computer today. This is fun! *Giggle* Lots of pretty picktures to look at. And all these buttons to push, too. Weeeeeeeee!!! ;as;lkdjfao24[ua vscl vka[w-9eutqaw[0e9u

Anywayzeee, Daddy wants to check his FaceBook page out, so I gotta go now. Okay, I love you, bye-bye bloggy peeple!

And have a Happy New Year!

-Windage

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T18:30:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has had a wonderful Christmas. Here's to you and yours enjoying a wonderful time of the year. Peace and blessings be upon your house as the New Year rolls in.

Blah

2008-12-19T05:41:00.001-08:00

I don't know what it is about this month. I have had a case of the blah's like no other.

Silly String

2008-12-15T19:32:00.001-08:00

Got to work on a new 'hobby' the other day. Stumbled across Stormdrane's Blog some time ago and thought to myself, "WOW! That's pretty darn cool! How do I get to make stuff like that?!"

Well, I just got to doing it. He's got a couple of good instructional pieces on his website, and you can see several different pieces he's designed. After some more practice with Sinnet knots and Lanyard knots, I will tackle some more complex stuff like Carrick Bend bracelets and Monkey's Fist knots.

Here's some of what I created over the weekend. All-in-all, it is not that time consuming if you're just out to make a few small pieces for yourself. Very relaxing in front of the t.v., or listening to iTunes. After a few false starts, the bracelets took about an hour each to complete. The hatbands took another hour each. The lanyard knot was a beeotch kitteh to complete. Not for being entirely difficult, but just the way I process instruction. I went with a couple of different links from Google and managed to get it right. Took about four or five tries to get it the way I wanted it. I may start all over with this one. Not too keen on the length.

Anyway, I'm working on a snake knot hatband in blaze orange for another boonie hat. I guess thirty feet of paracord is enough to wrap it around. That is my idea. Saw the knot and thought it might work as a band. Maybe, maybe knot.

I found some of the 550 cord lying in my 3-gun box and got started. A trip to the surplus store scored some more 300' spools in ACU gray, Navy blue, blaze orange, and basic black. Found a jig at the craft store to make the braided band. Need a smaller one if I'm gonna work with smaller diameter cordage.

Most of the information on knot tying I found at Stormdrane's. He has a very comprehensive list of knot tying books there, as well as some great instructions and how-to posts.

And So It Begins....

2008-12-09T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Great Illinois Political Machine is starting to break apart. I'm loving this. I can't wait to see how far this goes.

Thankful

2008-11-27T18:49:00.000-08:00

Five Things I Am Thankful For This Year:
My beautiful daughter, "Windage." She is the apple of my eye. I will go to the ends of the earth for this young child. I will stop at nothing to insure her happiness, and protect her from all that may cause her harm with every fibre of my being.
My wife of four years, "Swede." We met on March 10th, 2000, and have been together ever since. I knew she was someone special from the first moment I laid eyes on her. Not because she was staring at my butt (as I like to say how we met), but because she saw through the barroom b.s. and found the real me. I love her more now than ever that she bore our child and is a wonderful mother to us both.
Our family. It is growing exponentially. I am an uncle to two step-children of my older sister, OC. They are wonderful, if not sometimes rambunctious, kids. I am so happy my sister has found a man worthy of her love and affection and kids to match. I am also an uncle to a beautiful baby living in Sweden. Swede's brother and his wife have a wonderful daughter (one month older than Windage, whom I'll call Baby Bjorn). Our friends have children, others are getting married, and it's getting to the point that we'll all need nametags to keep up with each other. Aside from that, I've managed to catch up with many of my friends from college, high school, and grade school on FaceBook, too.
Employment. I have a job, and so does Swede. We are fortunate to be able to pay our bills while the world slowly crumbles apart around us. This means I can keep putting food on the table while working a job that I enjoy doing daily. We are going to see more hard times ahead, and the belts will get tighter. I will work to provide for my family, and keep doing so if it means I have to dig ditches day in and day out.
I'm thankful for where I live. These United States...The Great State Of Texas...The Wonderful City Of Houston.... I don't know that I could live anywhere else. I have wonderful neighbors, family and friends. Sure, we get the occasional storm to wreck things, but who doesn't have a quirk or two in their hometown? It is what you make of it. I feel a great connection to this part of the world. In a way, we all have a special bond to where we call home. Even if home is on the road in a Kerouac sense, by a lake a'la Thoreau, or wherever you lay your head at night. I'm thankful that I have a place to call home...someplace I can proudly say I'm from.
Lastly, I'm thankful for this outlet to project my thoughts. I'm thankful that there are people who will listen (read) what I have to say. We are also a community...in a sense, a home...that comes together for nothing more than the chance to be who we are. Our common bond is the freedom to speak our minds. I'm thankful for those of you that listen to me, criticize (and even laugh) at me, and have reached out to help. Thank you.

May the Good Lord Bless You and Keep You Free From Harm. Blessings on Your House and Family this Christmas Season.

-Shooter Out.

National Ammo Day

2008-11-19T20:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, I partook.

Did it a couple weeks back.

*neener* The ammo was a bit cheaper then.

Picked up some .308 battle packs and about 200 rounds of 55gr. .223

My guns are happy happy joy joy.

Now, if I could only find some time to go and blast away.

S'all good...I'm patient.

Gun Show Review

2008-11-17T14:41:00.000-08:00

I actually ventured to the local gun show at the GRB this past weekend. Good Gravy! That was a show and a half. Event organizers were calling it the most profitable gun show in Houston history. And I heard there are six more shows planned between now and "the ascension" in January.

I only went on Sunday looking for a few essential items. I can now cross off my list the low-profile scope mount for the G3 clone. I also found a GREAT deal on two CRKT fix blade knives. Couldn't pass it up at $50. All told, I walked in with $100 cash and had money to spare walking out.

I was amazed at the crowds...let me rephrase.... I was mildly surprised by the crowds. It was expected to be a high turnout, but I didn't plan on it being THAT huge. From the git I had to wait ten minutes just to buy my ticket. That should have tripped my warning bells.

Lines were long and the crowds thick. I passed by the table I used to work for one of the Dallas vendors, and they actually closed at three yesterday to handle the four hour wait to process paperwork. Yes, I said it...FOUR. HOUR. WAIT. That was the shortest wait yesterday. As an aside, they were all out of long guns. In shows past, we had Sig 556, DPMS, some Colt ARs on the table. There were a couple of WASR-10s, shotties of various flavors, and some exotic stuff like SU-16, PS90 et. al. The only long gun left was a Barrett .50. I couldn't even get close enough to see the price tag on it. Pistols were usually the hot item of the shows I worked. Since they ran out of long arms, pistols were running a close second. No Glocks left, all the bug guns were gone (even the cheap multi-colored .25 cal. ones), and everything else was starting to fly off the table.

Funny to note: The tables with the long waits were the ones with the mediocre prices at shows past. They got smart and carried more inventory with a lower markup to cover the expected crush. Only one big table was carrying a 1-hour wait or less (guess what their prices were like?). The local AR-15 house had to run back to the shop for more inventory Saturday night. I went over to the store today to pick up some spare springs and pins. Nada. Bupkis. Zip. Backordered by a year from their parts distributor. I did get my front sight tool, one spring replacement kit (the last one) and some rail covers. Their walls were bare. I am not kidding...they were empty. Talking to one of the employees yesterday, they had to run back to Houston from the Ft. Worth show two weeks ago because they ran completely out of rifles, uppers, lowers, stripped receivers, parts and optics.

Don't even get me started on the ammo situation. Okay, get me started. Big Dog Ammo is the largest ammo dealer at the Houston shows. Rumor has it he brings close to $2 million in ammo to each show. I walked by his table and they were only selling DPX, some Speer Lawman, and other oddball calibers by the box. Usually, he has the best deals on any and all military rifle calibers and even better on bulk pistol ammo prices. That whole side of his table was completely bare.

Here's my take: I think this is post-election jitters and will soon die down. I don't believe anyone has anything to worry about through NOBama's first 100 days. The press uses the first 100 days as a benchmark to see how the new president is adjusting to the job and see where his focus will lie for the rest of the four years.

I DO BELIEVE that we will see something in the form of AWB II come to light before the midterm elections. HB 1022 may get pushed out of committee and onto the floor for debate (which is what the Dems were probably waiting for when it was authored). Should that happen, we will have at least a couple of years of a AWB. If the next ban takes effect, what I saw last weekend will be a walk in the park in comparison.

Should the ban happen, there will be a power shift come 2010. Republicans will take back power in both the Senate and House. Maybe we can get it reversed at that time, or wait for 2012.

I don't have a magic 8-ball, so I cannot say for certain what will be banned, but plan on all of it. We'll be left with .22 cal. muzzle loaders and cap guns for sport shooting. A friend told me the time to buy is now. DUH!!! I've got what I need and don't plan on any more. Right now, the time to buy spares of everything and in multiples of ten is now. If you have what you need in a safe at home, great. I recommend stocking up on ammo, reloading components, lots of primers and powder, lead casting equipment would be nice, AR lowers (stripped and loaded), a couple of uppers in various delightful flavors, .22 conversion kits for all your guns, furniture, spare firing pins, springs, pins, screws, etc. etc.

I'm praying it is going to be less of a blow to our 2nd Amendment rights than we fear. Still and all, I'm going to do what needs to be done to prepare for the worst. Best of luck.

Job Perks

2008-11-13T19:11:00.001-08:00

Probably the best part of my day today was sitting for the last half hour and watching the world go by.

I had some time to kill before an appointment and parked in an undeveloped section of one of my neighborhoods. Lo and behold, a white tail buck comes out of the brush and started to graze.

I just thought that was worth mentioning.

Food for thought

2008-11-13T10:23:00.001-08:00

As seen on the bathroom wall while at lunch today:

Work like you don't need the money.
Love like you've never been hurt.
Dance like nobody's watching.

Present...Arms!

2008-11-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

We salute you. Thank you for your service and dedication. Thank you for your sacrifice.

LawDog Does It Again

2008-11-06T20:09:00.000-08:00

Where he comes up with the links is beyond me. Some sooper-secret squirrel database or something.

Very interesting read that you should check out here.

I think this opened my eyes wider to some of the problems that president-elect NObama is going to face. I guess with the armchair quarterbacking and the worry about our guns and civil liberties, we forgot to look at the bigger picture. Sure, domestically, we're boned in a big way with national health care, gun control, economic bail-out and the many entitlement programs soon to be implemented. About the only foreign problems I thought Nobama would face are oil and Iraq.

Depending on how it all plays out on the world stage, we may see his haughtiness saddled with too many problems to focus direct attention on things that worry us the most. I hope that lessens the impact he'll likely have on happenings at home.

Go. Now. Read.

2008-11-03T19:44:00.000-08:00

A well written post about his hOliness.

If you haven't made up your mind, maybe this piece will help you.

Big Day Ahead of Us

2008-11-03T19:19:00.001-08:00

No matter which way you swing, tomorrow is going to be historic.

Go out and vote. Let your voice be heard.

No matter the outcome, respect the office of POTUS. Regardless of your affiliation, the next president deserves our respect for the difficult task he has. We don't have to like him, but he is who we selected.

Test

2008-10-31T10:23:00.001-07:00

Trying a new mobile app for blogger while in line at the polls. Been here an hour already, and got nothing better to do.

Zombie Quandary

2008-10-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

Tam posted a bit of a quandary at her blog. It makes sense, seeing as she doesn't have an AR in the vault this close to the ascension.

Now, I've got the SAKO with a couple of hundred hand tuned loads for distance work. The G3 clone when I need to 'whakka-whakka' at moderate distances. My AR is there, too, for the nitty-gritty. Plenty of pistol caliber stuff for close in along with a couple of shotties.

My question is this: Which is better for Zombie damage, steel shot, tungsten, or regular lead shot?

I've got about a thousand rounds of #6 steel shot in the garage. I also have an equal number of #7. Which one gets better penetration overall?

Hmph!

2008-10-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

I recently signed up for Facebook. Did it out of curiousity. I wanted to know who was out there that I knew. Wouldn't you know it, I now have 44 friends on Facebook. Of those 44:

Two are my sisters
Three live in Europe
One is my best friend
Nine are friends from my childhood
Fifteen are from grade school
Six are from college
The rest are friends and acquaintances I know through other friends and from shooting and work.

As we've grown and matured, it is refreshing to get back in touch with these people. Some of these people, it is surprising to note, are folks I thought I would never want to have contact with again. Funny how time changes perceptions of people.

Lazy Saturday Meme

2008-10-26T11:18:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of the Birthday Boy, Marko.

I got nothing better to do, so I will play, too.

Lazy Saturday Travel Meme

Five really interesting/beautiful foreign places I’ve visited:

Sweden
Cayman Islands
Kodiak Island, Alaska
Pilottown, La.
Valle Vidal, N.M.

Five countries that are high up on my List of Places I Want To See:

Italy
Russia
Switzerland
Morocco
Israel

If I could speak one more language fluently, I’d like to be able to speak:

Swedish

If I had to trade my citizenship for another one, I’d most likely move to:

A non-extradition treaty country

Not looking forward to this...

2008-10-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

A couple of people are starting to make whispers here, and here, about what might happen if NObama wins or loses. Whatever happens, it will be a rough night to kick off a rough four years.

For the Gunnies in the Group...

2008-10-23T17:47:00.000-07:00

Can you guess who this young chap is running roughshod all over the shotgun stage here?

Hint -- You IPSC and IDPA guys and gals may guess correctly.