Ship Day MEPS Part 1

Hey y'all! I was just scrolling through, checking out my old posts when I saw the one I posted from Houston when I shipped out. Apparently, I said I was going to write about my MEPS experience that day. Well, now I'm going to try and remember it enough to do so. That day was a hard, crazy, jam-packed, emotional rollercoaster, so hang in there!

Alright, let's start out with that Monday, 5Nov12, when I was getting ready to head to my recruiter's office. My mom decided to come over about 6 am, and was helping me clean (of course that's what I was worried about). My husband went to work until about 11, then came home to take me to my recruiter's office at noon. It still didn't feel real at that point. Even when I told him bye. I wish I would've taken more time to tell him goodbye, since I didn't even have 5 minutes to at MEPS. Anyway, I wore some workout clothes there, since I planned on working out at the hotel gym. Then, I had a plastic bag I would put them in to give my husband to take home when I saw him at MEPS.

First thing we did when we got to Memphis was head to the MEPS. Not everyone will do this, though. My MEPS liked to have the shippers (if there were more than 5) come in the night before to go over paperwork to shorten the process, and have plenty of time to fix mistakes if applicable. I was there doing all of that for about 2-3 hours. Then we took a shuttle to the hotel to get ready for the night. Immediately, I went to the fitness room and set to work. I was in the same situation this time as last time with weight. So of course I hadn't eaten anything all day, and didn't plan to for the rest of the night. I spent as much time as possible on the phone with my husband, mom, sister, whoever. I think I may have Skyped my SIL this time, too. I went back and forth between my room, where I relaxed and talked on the phone, and the fitness room. Then we had a briefing around 2030ish, that was exactly like the first time.

After that, I spent a bit more time in the fitness room. Finally, I called it quits and went to my room for the evening. I actually lucked out and didn't have a roomie, woot! So, I made a sauna out of the bathroom and sat there for about 10-15 minutes before I gave up! Then, I Skyped DH one last time (and Ted was with him, of course!) and went to bed. I had my first alarm set for 0300, so that oh-so familiar foghorn went off and I was up! I decided to head down to the fitness room one last time (obsessive? Yes. I was trying to make sure I would ship!) then came back up and took a shower and got ready. I didn't bring my flat iron or blow dryer, since it seemed unnecessary. I really didn't care what my hair looked like! (I actually have several photos from that day…I may just post some for y'all to see how terrible I looked! Oh, I even have a before/after pic from the day I shipped, and the day I sepped.) Anyway, it was almost 0430 at this point, and I was packed and ready to go! I didn't want to leave my room just yet, so I called my mom. She's a bazillion (60) years old, and has all kinda of medical issues (including a million kinds/locations of arthritis) so she's up and down all night, and usually is up for the day between 0300-0400. So I called and told her how much I loved and appreciated her and couldn't wait to see her at the MEPS (her and DH came together). I ended the call and went to check out.

I was dressed in my jeans, plain black tee, and black fleece jacket with my Asics on. I was a hot mess. But, luckily I wasn't being judged (there) since everyone else (except the few Marines shipping) looked the same. Hooray for already falling into the military uniformity! Ha! So, after what seemed like for-ev-er waiting on the shuttle to the MEPS, it finally arrived and we set off. I still wasn't nervous or anything at this point -- mostly sad. I REALLY didn't want to leave DH, and I knew I was going to full on lose it when I saw my mom. The stories DH told me about their drive back home was heartbreaking. Anyway, MEPS stuff. Yeah. We got there at roughly 0600 (also, for future reference and to save you a good yelling, you pronounce it zero-six-hundred, not oh-six-hundred. I learned that the second night, and luckily the MTI I was talking to didn't scream. But, I heard plenty of trainees get reamed for it), and things started out just like the first time. We were kinda given priority over the DEPpers, since we had flight itineraries and such.

I think I'm going to break here, and start a new post for the rest. It'll probably (definitely) be super emotional, so have a tissue handy! Any time I think back to that day, I almost feel sick with sadness. I try very hard to just block it out. Which is why it's a little difficult to recall everything, since I've tried to wipe it from memory (at least the MEPS part -- I will never forget Zero Night, and I'm not sure how some people do!).

Have a great evening, and Aim High! I'll be back soon with Ship Day MEPS Part 2!

P.S.
I think I'm just going to have a whole post dedicated to my pictures, since I just saw how many I'd like to share!! =]

The 3-Day Diet -- Does It Work?

Hello all! I know it's been quite some time since I've updated. I apologize sincerely! I've had a lot going on, and FINALLY landed a job after 4 months of waiting! Then, sadly, my house was broken into, and the people who did so took all of our big electronics (including my laptop! So this is on my phone - hang in there!) and one of DH's guns. It sucks, most definitely, but we're not defeated!

Anyway, my post today is on the now-popular 3-Day Military Diet. I'm not sure how it got the title of a "military diet", since it actually came from the cardiac unit at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. I think it's because military recruiters give it out to recruits just before heading to MEPS, since once you're operational, weight standards aren't really an issue. I do want state, though, this diet is NOT a long term solution. It's for people like us, who have a deadline for a weigh in they have to make. Following it any longer than one go-around may lead to some sort of complications. And, no matter who you are or your metabolism, you will gain the weight back. Maybe not all of it, but some. Also, make sure and consult with a physician before starting this, or if you experience any unusual behaviors or weird feelings while taking this. Nonetheless, this is the title it has been given, so we shall proceed.

I actually partook in this diet -- twice. Once before swearing into the DEP at MEPS, and then before shipping out to BMT. We all know I was struggling with my weight at those times, so my recruiter gave me a printout of this diet, and told me to have at it. Obviously, if it wasn't safe, he wouldn't have given it to me. But, this diet is VERY strict, and must be followed to the tee. On average, males who follow this diet lose about 7-10 lbs. while females lose on average 5-7 lbs. For me, the first time, I lost 7 lbs. and then 6 lbs. the second go around. The thing to remember is to STAY HYDRATED, with only water, between meals. You cannot substitute/vary any of these things, unless of course you have an allergy. Salt and pepper may be added in moderation, but no other seasonings. That includes mayo or what have you for the tuna. Personally, I like plain tuna. I'm also one of the pickiest eaters you'll ever meet, so this diet didn't bother me at all. The only thing I had issues with trying to get down was the cantaloupe. It was terrible, but I ate it. I will say, however, that on a few of the things, I couldn't find. Like the string beans, for example. Instead, I think I ate green beans. I felt like that was an okay sub, since it was still a bean. And every time there was an option for 'greens' I ate broccoli. I'm slightly obsessed with it. I steam it and, normally, add some garlic salt. Alas, I didn't for this diet, but it was still yummy!

Okay. Enough of that, lets get to the food! I'm going to break it down into days, then meals.

*****DISCLAIMER: I am NOT responsible for any results of this diet, be it positive or negative. Participation in this diet is solely up to YOU, the reader, and the results fall on you, be it positive or negative.*****

DAY 1

Breakfast - Black coffee or unsweetened black tea (the normal, like Lipton), a half of a grapefruit, 1 slice of whole wheat toast, 1 tablespoon of peanut butter.

Lunch - half cup of tuna, 1 slice of whole toast or 1 slice cheese, coffee or tea.

Dinner - 2 slices of any meat (approx. 3 ounces) 1 cup of string beans, 1 cup of beets or carrots, 1 SMALL apple, 1 cup vanilla ice cream. (Yes, you read that correctly. But only ONE CUP!!)

DAY 2

Breakfast - coffee or tea, 1 boiled egg, 1 slice whole wheat toast, half of a banana.

Lunch - 1 cup cottage cheese or half cup of tuna, 3 saltine crackers.

Dinner - 2 hot dogs, 1 cup broccoli or cabbage, half cup of carrots or turnips, HALF cup of vanilla ice cream.

DAY 3

Breakfast - coffee or tea, 3 saltine crackers, 1 slice cheddar cheese (2 ounces), 1 SMALL apple.

Lunch - 1 hard-boiled egg, 1 slice of whole wheat toast, coffee or tea.

Dinner - 1 cup tuna, 1 cup beets or carrots, 1 cup cauliflower or greens, 1 cup cantaloupe (eww), HALF cup of vanilla ice cream.

Remember to be drinking PLENTY of water, and ONLY water, between meals. Absolutely nothing else, including gum/mints. If a meal doesn't state to drink coffee or tea, drink water. And also remember the coffee or tea, for all meals it's included in, must be black/unsweetened. That includes lemon! Also, make sure you have whole wheat bread for toast, get the tuna in water, not oil, and regular tuna, not albacore. And for the coffee/tea, just drink the equivalent of a standard sized coffee mug. DO NOT SUBSTITUTE! The one and ONLY reason to do so, would be if you have an allergy. This is a chemical breakdown in your body, and any variations may cause in-effectiveness, or less than desirable results. If you just don't like something in this diet, don't do it. Simple as that.

If you already have a fitness routine in place, make sure and stick with it during this. Don't over-do it, though, and don't add any more to it. Some blogs I've seen have been recommending adding extra to work-outs, which is poor advice. Over-doing it could lead to serious health issues, since you're almost starving yourself on this (sad truth). Like distance for a run, or heavier weights. Just keep a normal routine in place for these 3 days. Fitness is a huge role in weight loss, especially cardio. So stick with it! But be aware of your body, and what it can/cannot handle. And again, check with a doctor if you feel odd, or injure yourself while on this diet. If you have any serious medical conditions that require dialysis or special medication (such as diabetes) I cannot recommend ENOUGH to speak with your doctor first. Print this out and give him/her the full menu and ask if it's okay, or if they can refer you to a dietician that can develop a meal plan specifically for you.

That's it so far on this post! If I remember anything important that was left out, I'll update! In the mean time, if you have ANY comments or questions, please ask! The main thing I want to stress is that while this diet worked quite well for me, it may not for you. If you're doubtful about it, ask a doctor, nutritionist, personal trainer, or whomever about it first. Every person is different in terms of metabolisms and overall health, body type, size, ability to process different things, etc. If you start feeling sick while on this diet, please stop immediately and seek medical attention. You don't want to injure yourself or fall ill before your ship date, and DEFINITELY don't want to ship that way. Also, let your recruiter know that you're on this diet, that way he or she can give you more feedback on it. Like I said, my recruiter gave this to me, but not all recruiters are the same, and might prefer you didn't do this. If that's the case, LISTEN to them. While you're certainly a "number" for them, you're still a person and they don't want you to harm yourself in any way. Your recruiter knows what's best, and if they don't, your doctor most definitely does!!

That's all for now, folks! Have a great day!!

Officially Active Duty....Lackland Bound!

I've made it to Houston!

Today has been a ridiculously long day, and I'm ready for some sleep, however brief it may be! Flying has been an....adventure...for me.

I'm gonna have to sign off for now! I have a million calls to make still, before leaving out for San Antonio. I'm expecting to be there around 2200! Ughhh. I'll make sure and give several longgggg posts about my MEPS experience today, and the BMT process in general!

Talk to y'all in 8.5 weeks! Aim High, DEPpers!

It's Our Time

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

I'm currently sitting in my hotel room, waiting to head to a briefing, then come back and go to bed, then go to MEPS, then the airport, then to Lackland AFB! Haha. You get the picture.

Well, the last few days have been crazy! I've had 2 going away parties, one with my mom and family, the other with my in-laws. I got pretty emotional yesterday when I said goodbye to my in-laws. I've been a part of that family for almost 10 years. It's crazy. Knowing I wouldn't see my sweet, weirdo 18 month nephew for 4ish months almost killed me! I love that boy so much! It's hard saying goodbye, but it's for the better. In 24 hours, I'll either be arriving at Lackland, or well on my way. And then in 8 (hopefully short) weeks, I'll be an American Airman. Wow.

Also, this week my 11thers are graduating!!!!! Ahhhh!! I'm SO proud of them! Britt and Brandon: I can't believe it's already that time! I hope it goes by as fast for me, as it seemed to for y'all! Write me as much as possible, and let me know what jobs y'all ended up with!

Anyway. Tomorrow is going to be heart breaking. I have to tell my mom and husband goodbye. =[ Y'all already know how I feel about it. My hubby is my best friend in the entire world; not having him there with me is going to be torture. On top of that, I had to tell my children (cats) bye today! Poor Teddy Westside isn't going to know what to do! I already miss him bunches!

So my weight crept back on me these last few weeks. Boo. My max weight is 150, and the last several days, I've been a constant 143. But, my going away party yesterday killed it. I was almost 145 this morning! Eeeeekkkkk! I'm thinking I'm back down to 144, but hopefully less. I want to be at 142, which is what I weighed in at the first time to MEPS. But, if I get 143, I'll be happy! I haven't eaten alllllll day! And, it's 1930! I've been drinking water like nobody's business. Then, I'll have to have a repeat tomorrow of my first trip to MEPS: nothing. Not even water. I just got back from the hotel gym, where I ran for 20ish minutes. I'm about to head back down until our briefing at 2030, and possibly do the elliptical or bike. I've also done some push ups, sit ups, and jumping jacks in my room! Then, I'm going to make my own sauna in the bathroom when I get done. Hopefully I can sweat out some weight! Everyone keep your fingers crossed that I make it down to 143 at least tomorrow!

Well, I'm calling it quits tonight. I'll try and update tomorrow at the airport or something! It may just be a one-liner, but I'll get something out! Thanks so much for reading, and thinking of me as I go through this awesome journey! I can't wait to tell y'all what BMT was like, and soon Tech School! Have an AMAZING Air Force evening! <3

Picking My Own Brain...A Collage Of Random Thoughts

Hey guys! Today officially marks exactly 2 weeks until I'm stepping off of that bus, onto Lackland AFB! Ahhhhhhhhh. I'm still super pumped, but the nerves have definitely set in.

I'm starting to miss my September shipper friends more and more!! I wish that they could be here for me to talk to about all of this! We were all really good at keeping each other distracted when we wanted to be, or getting serious and talking about how we're feeling, or what's going on in our lives. I've been in contact with them via mail, though! I haven't talked to my soulmate, Brittany, though. I never saw her address posted on her Facebook page, so that makes me sad. =[ I sure could use a good laugh, or even just a nice convo with her about anything. Which reminds me....PLL premieres tonight! I swore to her that I would watch it and fill her in on all the juicy details, but alas I cannot. I may just make an entire post dedicated to it, though, that way she can read all about it when she gets out of BMT!!

Anyway, I've had several "Oh Shit!" moments lately. From walking down the Christmas aisle at the store, to just looking at my oldest nephew, I realize how much I'm going to miss everything and everyone. My husband nearly gave me a heart attack yesterday when he informed me he was going to have to do the taxes alone this year. =\ Yeah. NO. I'm praying to have a relatively short Tech School that way I can get back before April 15 (coincidentally my oldest nephew's birthday =]) and file those taxes! My poor husband is having to take on a lot while I'll be gone. I've always handled the bills, and most of them are in my name. I'm the one that calls to get stuff taken care of when a company messes up our bill, or anything like that. I'm the one that pays our property taxes and has our vehicles assessed and then gets our tags renewed. I'm the one that goes grocery shopping and actually makes a list, a budget, and sticks to both. I do not fear that he won't be able to do it. I have complete faith in him. He can do it, without a doubt. But, I just feel like since he has to do everything by himself, he may become overwhelmed. It's a good thing he has his mom and my mom close by to help him with everything. I'm sure my recruiter could also provide him with a considerable amount of advice, since he's done it himself, and has put many married recruits through.

Now, I'm down to picking out jobs and bases. This is the one thing I've been procrastinating on. Which is ridiculous, I know. But, I keep saying, "Oh, I have plenty of time for that!" Well, two weeks away, and still nada. I've enlisted the help of my friend Lee, (see Interview with an Airman, part 2) to sort things out. He's researching a few jobs I wasn't sure of. Bless his heart.

Tomorrow, I get to go to one of the nearby colleges with my recruiter for a career fair! I'm rather excited about it. However, I'm not excited about my 0430 wake up call. I have to be at his office approx. 0630. Yikes! We have to get to the college (roughly an hour or so drive), set up our little booth, and be ready to go at 0800. Craziness. But, I'm happy to do it. I legit have the best recruiter out there, and he's helped me out so much through this process, that this is the least I could do. I plan on making him take a picture with me before I leave. Hahahahaha. That's another reason I'm hoping to have a rather short Tech School. His contract is up next year, and he expects to be gone from this area by July. I graduate BMT the beginning of January, and most of the jobs I'm looking at have a Tech School length of 1-2.5 months (just in class days, so we could probably say 3-4 months to be safe). That would put me arriving back home for RAP in May-ish. Fingers crossed!

Alright, time to call it to a close. Gotta get back to my research on jobs and bases that my husband wouldn't mind. =] Have a lovely Air Force day recruits!

Surrealism.

Well, today I saw (metaphorically) off some of my friends for BMT. It kinda sucks. Of course, they're all members of my BMT group on Facebook. I actually got to meet one of them, though! He lives about an hour away from me, and we did a public swear in together a few weeks ago at a baseball game. I was SO excited to get to meet him!

I feel like one of those creepers that you see in the movies. Haha! But these guys have become some of my best friends, even if it's just over Facebook. One day, we'll all meet up. I know it! The Air Force isn't that big. =]

All day long I was just a ball of nerves. I honestly felt like I was going to MEPS, swearing in, waiting around at the airport, riding the bus and everything. They kept me, and our group, updated throughout their whole day. I was even up at 4 this morning!! I'm so happy for them, and excited. I know at this exact moment they're having their "Holy shit, what did I just get myself into?!" moments, but that'll fade within the next few days/weeks. These people, they've got what it takes. I have no doubt about that.

Now, it's a little past midnight, and they're all probably still playing pick 'em ups, or hearing their MTI's running into their dorms screaming at them to wake up and stand at attention. I'm actually hoping to receive a phone call tonight, or whenever they're allowed to make that first phone call, from one of the people in the group! I was more than willing to be their support system. Nobody should have to go through something like BMT and not have anyone to share their experiences with, or their fears. They didn't really want to call their family because they're not all too close by any means. They wanted to act like it was no big deal, which was actually quite believable. However, I can read people quite well! The call could come in 5 seconds from now, or at 2 a.m., or tomorrow morning. Who knows? Hopefully, I'll be awake to answer it, or at least hear my phone ringing in my sleep.

I'm down to 1 person in the September group that is one of my close friends. And she's leaving next week! We actually don't live too awfully far from each other, and were able to meet up this past weekend at an Air Show at our closest AFB! It was awesome! I feel like these next 2 months are just going to drag by so slow. I'm down to 55 days (54 til MEPS!). I'll get to speak with my 4thers for a few days before I leave, but the 11thers will be graduating the week I arrive. =[ It sucks so bad! I won't even get to talk to them before I leave! Of course we still have letter-writing, but still. No more awkward ooVoo sessions, no more random, ADD posts, no more dimple, no more cats, no more Batman. Nothing.

This all seems so weird to me! I had a "Holy Shit!" moment earlier today. I think it was due to the fact that my friends were all experiencing their ship day, after talking about it for months and months. They were actually at MEPS. They actually swore into Active Duty. They actually flew to San Antonio. They actually loaded onto a bus, and drove onto Lackland AFB where they're currently flipping out. This will be me in less than 2 months.

I don't really know how to react to it, honestly. I'm still 100% positive this is what I want to do. I'm meant to do it. No questions there. But, can I do it? Do I actually have what it takes to become an American Airman? I've always known it would be hard. I've always known that I'm going to have so many struggles along the way, but they really got put into perspective for me today. I'm not worried about the PT portion of BMT too much. I can definitely run like no one's business right now, so with another 55 days of prep, I'll be good to go. Push ups...meh. I can do 12 now, though!! Graduating standards are only 18, so if I can't come up with 6 more in 4 months, something's wrong there. I can do 32 sit ups. The only reason they're that low is because the last time I timed myself, I got incredibly tired for some reason around 22ish, and slowed wayyyy down. All of that will be a breeze. But it's the mind games. Not the ones played by the MTI's. I know what they're trying to accomplish with those. They must break you down, to build you back up as an Airman. Someone worthy of defending our great country. Someone that will not falter, and will not fail. Failure has never been an option for me. Now more than ever, I want to succeed. I must succeed.

I have a tendency to over think and over analyze everything. I'm also OCD. Not like, not able to function properly, but things must be a certain way. I must do them a certain way. It's weird. I've always been a very logical person, and I like to think I have more common sense than the average person. So, when I combine those two things, it gets bad. Well, in regards to BMT.

This is how I see it: A 22 year old, 5'2", 135 pound, Southern girl with no college education, got married at 19, has never been independent her whole adult life, is about to embark upon the toughest journey less than 1% of Americans take. Of that 1%, only .01% are Air Force (at least, so I've been told). She has 3 years worth of management experience under her belt, has dealt with enough stupid people to last anyone a lifetime, and has handled the stresses of young marriage, crazy work schedules, stalkers, debt, poverty, growing up without a father, being a full time student and employee at the same time, being the perfect housewife and all. So how does that relate to the Air Force? These things are definitely a symbol of an overcomer, but, can she overcome Basic Military Training? Where MTI's don't care who you are, who your parents are, what your feelings are, if you're tired, scared, have the sniffles, anything. Can she do it?

I guess that's my food for thought. It's probably what every DEPper has felt at some time or another, but it's still tough to deal with. I want this more than anything, and I hope that that kind of determination I have will be my light when it all seems so dark. It will guide me home.

"And the only solution was to stand and fight.
And my body was loose and I was set alight.
But, she came over me like some holy rite.
And although I was burning, you're the only light,
Only if for a night."
-Florence + The Machine "Only If For A Night"

September to Remember

This post is going to be dedicated to all of my September 11 Shippers. =]

Guys, I already posted in the group about how much I'll miss y'all, but figured I'd take the time to make a blog post just for y'all!!!

Brandon: I've already told you how you're my favorite and all, but for reals. You are my fave!! You're tons of fun, and don't take anything too seriously. We have the same attitude about mostly everything (especially creepers!), and I'm still going to send you letters written on pink, glittery paper =]

Brittany: Girl, you are my soul mate foreva. We've had some awesome laughs, and we know what's up when it comes to guys! Boobs > anything! I still wish I could sneak in your bag and camp out under your bunk for the next 55 days!! 

Callie: I've loved getting to know you the past several months, and am happy to have found another Southerner like myself!! You're going to kick BMT's ass! Don't ever let anyone hold you back!

Chris: Dimple. That's all that really needs to be said, but I'll say more =] I know you've worked incredibly hard to get to the point where you are now, and couldn't be any happier for you! The next 2 years are going to be the toughest you'll have to face, but you can make it through! You're a boss. I'm always going to be pulling for you!

Dari: Dear, sweet, Dari. I will miss your clever humor oh so much. You always get the group in a fantastic mood, and cheer everyone up when they're feeling down. I'm still going to creep your videos, also. =]

Jake: You're the Batman to my Catwoman. What else needs to be said?! =]

Matt: I've enjoyed getting to know you, and was pleasantly surprised by how much we have in common! It was nice having someone else who was married to talk to about it all! Just stay tough, and you'll be back home with the wifey soon!! =]

Michael: I'm so excited that we got to meet!! And angry that I somehow was deaf enough to not hear you yelling at me to take a picture!! We gotta represent for the Memphis area! Go in there, and show those MTI's what's up! Just be yourself: a badass.

For those I missed, I did not do it intentionally! I just read the names off the doc in the group, and spoke from my heart! I know I've gotten to know the other 11thers pretty well, and wish them all the best throughout their BMT/Tech School and Operational journey!! Always remember in your toughest, darkest times that what you're doing is so much greater than yourself. Think about everything you've sacrificed to get to the point that you're at, and use that as fuel. You only go through BMT once, so make it worth it!! When you're feeling down, remember that hundreds upon hundreds of trainees graduate every week, and if some of those dummies can do, y'all will have a walk in the park! Tonight and tomorrow are the last times we'll really get to speak (aside from letters, of course!). It's sad to think about, but I'll be there in 55 days, y'all!! Hopefully in the few days y'all will have left while I'm there, we'll spot each other! I absolutely cannot wait to serve our country alongside each and every one of you. You will all become great Airmen, and I'll see you on the other side of the Blue! 

Counting Down

Okay everyone, I feel so bad for just leaving y'all hanging with my post about my ship date! It's time for me to elaborate a bit more haha!

So on 19 Aug I had something crazy happen to me, which I'll explain later, just know it was pretty life-altering. Well, that was a Sunday night, around 10 p.m. and the first thing I did on that Monday, 20 Aug, was go to my recruiter. I explained my situation to him, and that I would be ready to go at a moment's notice if he could get me a date to leave. I've been hardcore working out! I'm running 2+ miles a day, 6 days a week. I even got my 1.5 mile time down to 10:12!! It's crazy! I can even do 11 push ups now! It just kind of happened one day. I went from being able to do next to none, to 5, to 11 withing a few days time. I've also dropped a tremendous amount of weight, putting me way below my max! My sit ups are fine, I can 34, and the minimum to graduate is 38. I told my recruiter all of this, and he said he would be more than willing to make me his number one priority. He could see all of my hard work and dedication, so he wanted to help me out.

Well, that next day, Tuesday, he got the call from his boss that there was a slot available for Open General (I think the higher one) leaving 6 Nov. He almost flipped. He was so surprised since I had just come in asking for something! Well, of course he couldn't call and let me know right then. He needed to make sure paperwork went through, and that it was actually available rather than calling me and getting my hopes up, in case it fell through. On Wednesday, I was working a 9-5 shift. I had to go run a few errands on my lunch break, and then stopped at Sonic just to get a drink. I pulled back up to the mall parking lot, received a text and was replying to it while I was getting out of my car to head back in. I was mid-text when my phone rang and I saw my recruiter's name. I kind of had a "Holy crap, this is it" moment, then decided to not get my hopes up and just figured he was calling to check in. I had been keeping my phone on me at all times at work just in case he called to tell me I would be leaving soon, and I didn't want to miss the opportunity to say "Yes"! But, as my recruiter informed me, if it were that, and I wasn't answering my phone, he would just come over to my work (His office is literally right across the street).

So, I answer my phone, and he asks me how I was doing, where I was at with weight and everything then my heart skipped a few beats. I stopped dead in my tracks in the middle of the parking lot and had such a major girly moment of OMG's and doing a happy dance. It was almost embarrassing. But not quite =] He said, "Starr, I have some news. I got you a date for Basic Training." I barely heard anything he said after that for a few minutes. So he had to tell me again =] I'm leaving in 65 days (64 for MEPS)!!!

My life just feels so...right...now!! I cannot believe it. I lucked out getting to leave so soon, however, I wish it would've been with my September shippers (Preferably the 11th =])!! The 11thers will graduate TWO WHOLE DAYS after I get there. It sucks, but they're all excited for me. And we're all excited to catch up in Tech School. Since I have a General Aptitude, I have no idea what job I'll get, or even where I'll be going for Tech School! I'm pretty much okay with that, though. I got a ship date, so I can deal with the unknown =]

I've become more active in the November shippers page, but it's just not the same as September. I've known these guys since April, when I first went and met with my recruiter and started the whole process. I've had 5 months of getting to know them, and developing a bond. I know that sounds almost creepy and strange since it's online, but you can always tell when you've made [a] friend(s) for life. I'm hoping to develop a relationship close to this with some of my fellow November shippers! BMT is one of the toughest things you'll ever go through, and having a good wingman or two will make that process a bit easier. And if I can get to start those friendships sooner rather than later, it'll make a world of difference! I'm just happy to have people, regardless of what month they're shipping, that can understand how I feel. Sure, you can explain to it civilians, but they'll never truly understand why you do what you do. An Airman always will.

With that, I'm signing off. I've gotta get up and get ready for work, and do a little more BMT shopping! Yay for coupons! Everyone have an awesome Air Force Day!!

Interview With An Airman: Round Two!

Hello again, everyone! Today is my second interview with an Airman!! I met this awesome guy through the September shippers Facebook page! He's been a GREAT help to all of us, and we appreciate him a lot! He has very valuable information, so if you're looking for any answers, this guy can most likely tell you! He has a Weapons job, so if you're interested in that area, he can tell you about that also! You should be able to find him in all of the BMT shippers pages on Facebook, but if you can't, feel free to comment, and I'll make sure he gets it! Thanks for reading!

Q: What is your AFSC?

 2W1X1-Armament Systems Technician. 

Q: RES/ANG/AD? 

Active Duty

 Q: When did you go through BMT/Tech School? 

BMT: November 2008-January 2009
Tech School: January 2009-June 2009

Q: What was your dorm duty?

Fire crew-Took trash out.
House Mouse-Organized, cleaned, and took care of the MTI's office. I also fixed his cabinets once he found out I had worked at a cabinet factory previous to joining.
Road Guard-Stopped traffic for the formation to cross roads. If you need help on running, or like to run, do this.

Q: Compared to the list on this blog, what would you recommend/not recommend packing for BMT?

Look for red "suggestions"
-Glasses Prescription/Contact Lenses Prescription Don't bother even bringing contacts. Get some glasses before hand to get used to them, and save some hassle.
Clothing
-3 Days of Civilian Clothing (Ex: 2 pairs of jeans, 3 T-Shirts, 3 pairs of socks, 3 pairs of underwear for men, since you are issued yours.)* For clothing, try, and bring crew neck shirts, and long shorts or pants. For various reasons tight fitting clothing or any v-necks should be discouraged especially for women. You will be tucking in your shirts also.
-Shower Shoes (Cheap Plain black rubber/plastic, no cloth/leather flip flops from Wal-Mart, Target, or Old Navy will suffice)
-Running Shoes (Wear these down there, your MTI may let you keep them) Depends entirely on your TI. You can always use them after BMT.
-Watch I suggest a cheap watch. It will get abused, and you don't want to risk it disappearing.
-Toothbrush holder Square tube style, not the one that fits on the end. 
-Q Tips Can buy them there so not too big of a worry. 
-Brush/Comb Guys, don't worry about this one, you won't need it.

Q: What did you do to prepare yourself for BMT? 

I really didn't do much. I made sure my finances were in order, and that all my stuff was taken care of. Other than making sure you are in okay shape, they will teach you everything you need to know at BMT. It is designed so that you can come in, and not know a thing, yet succeed. 

Q: What's your name and rank? 

Name: L. Smith 
Rank: Senior Airman selected for Staff Sgt.

 Q: What's operational life like compared to the world of BMT?

 It's much different. It's much more laid back as long as you remember your customs, and courtesies. You are treated like an adult for the most part. If you do get in trouble though, some supervision does make your life (in my opinion) more miserable than you will ever be in BMT. They can do it a variety of ways such as you having an escort at all times, a check in schedule, random blues inspections, ect.

Q: Did you ever have a 341 pulled? If so, for what? 

Yes, one. I honestly don't remember. I think I was in the DFAC, and said the wrong thing. It ended up getting trashed by my TI. 

Q: What is PT like at BMT?

 It wasn't that bad. The hardest part was the pyramid pushups. I will say that since I've been in the requirements have changed. Not sure if they are harder or not.

 Q: What was the best thing/experience that happened to you while there? 

The best part(s) were completing the Obstacle Course, which is also called the confidence course for a reason. Don't chicken out, try your hardest, and don't take the easy wall, and graduation. Knowing that I managed to make it that far through everything, and getting to experience what I did was worth it.

Q: What was the worst thing/experience that happened to you while there? 

The worst part was getting sick. I ended up with a nasty flu, and tested positive for the adenovirus. While I was there, the norwalk virus ended up spreading like wild-fire. There is nothing you can really do to prepare yourself, just make sure to hydrate, and stay healthy. If you are really sick, then say something. It's not worth risking pneumonia like one guy in my flight or worse.

Q: What is the best advice you could give to any future trainee to survive BMT?

They will yell, and scream, but don't take it personal. Do as you are told with a sense of urgency. 

Tell us a little about yourself (why you joined, etc.)

I'm 26, joined when I was 23, which was an experience, but was worth the wait. I'm the 4th in my family to spend time in the Air Force, and hope to make it a career. So far, I've deployed to Guam which was fun, and participated in weapons loading operations for Operation Odyssey Dawn.

Thanks again for reading, everyone! Remember, any questions at all, feel free to comment! He's here to help you through the process!!! =]

(Props to my friend Britt for the picture!)

Marriage in the Military

Hey guys, I've been wanting to post about this for a while. It's something I'm going through, and I'm sure some of you are. If not, you probably will eventually!!

Whether you're in the DEP, operational, or a milspouse, you know this is a big deal. Joining any branch of service is a life-changing event. Once you're in, you can't get out just because your spouse doesn't want you to be in anymore. There's a lot more to it than that. But, if you're lucky enough to marry someone who is in the Military, whether it's your branch or not, they'll understand what you're going through. They understand the need you feel to serve your country, and they definitely understand Service before Self. It's hard, but with the right people, you can make it work.

When you initially make the decision to speak with a recruiter, you're probably already pretty set on joining. It was that way with me, I researched everything I could for a few weeks before I spoke with mine, and I talked to my husband about it. He said he was fine with it, so a few days later I called my recruiter and we got it started. Over the course of my enlistment process, he's gone back and forth on whether he's for it or not. Please remember in this post, I'm not trying to make my husband out to be a bad person. Every person is entitled to their opinions, he just doesn't want to leave his family and everything behind. Don't get me wrong, my husband loves his country, and is very thankful to all those serving. I mean, his sister and his brother-in-law are currently serving! He's had other family members in various branches, so he knows. He wanted to join the Marines for the longest time. I was always a selfish person, and didn't want him to. Granted, he wanted to do something along the lines of Infantry, and surely you all can understand why I felt that way. A wife worries about her husband constantly, and the fact that he was wanting to do something so...dangerous...at a point where we were right in the middle of this current war, was terrifying to me. But, around the end of last year/beginning of this year, a friend changed my mind. I have a former co-worker who is in the National Guard, and he was deployed to Afghanistan for a year not long ago. I think he returned home about a year ago. Well, we spoke for a while on this, and he went so in depth on everything, and really made me understand what it's like. You'd think that would scare me more, but actually knowing what's going on, made it better. So I told him I'd be okay with it. I asked if he wanted me to look into everything for him, and possibly contact a recruiter. He said sure! So I got it going for him, and even went to speak with the recruiter myself (since it's the Marines, and we know that they're known for being smack dab in the middle of a combat zone). We set up a time for my husband to go speak with him alone, and was done. Oh, I should mention my husband knew about that beforehand, haha!

Well, when the day came for him to go talk to him, he flipped out. He decided that I was trying to push him into it, and he didn't want to. I said okay, that's fine. I was kinda pushing him into it, because I thought it was something he really wanted to do, but I was wrong, I guess. So I let it go. That was probably mid-January. Well, I realized several months later, I really wasn't going anywhere with my life, at least career-wise, so I started looking into Cosmetology School, and other different jobs. Well, when I was doing a job search through Monster, I think, I noticed the National Guard had actually listed jobs! I though it was cute! But it got me thinking.....my SIL is in the AF, and we're almost the same person. She's stubborn, independent, and a go-getter. I figured if she could survive basic training, then so could I. That wasn't meant to be derogatory in any way, haha!  So I talked to her about it first, then started doing my own research...and now, here we are. I officially swore into the DEP 1 month ago today. The things it took to get here were ridiculous, and I can't imagine backing out now. I want this so badly, I want to make a difference. I want to serve my country. This is my calling in life, as cheesy as that sounds. I never felt so...right about something.

So where we are with is, is here: I'm in the Air Force (minus the important stuff like BMT, Tech School, you know =] ). My husband doesn't want to move, and isn't going to move. Therefore, we're stuck. Unless I choose to switch to Reserves, then I'll have to move. I don't want to be RES, it's great for those who do, though! I just feel my calling is to be AD. I don't know where to go from here. He doesn't want to leave his family, which is definitely understandable, but when we got married, we agreed to be each other's number 2 (God First). In a Christian marriage, you enter into it as one flesh. You agree to leave your father, brother, sister, mother, cousin, aunt, uncle all of them behind. Well, not behind, just farther down your list of priorities. As a non-married person, you probably put your parents before your boyfriend/girlfriend, and that's fine. But, when you get married, your spouse is your everything. You are supposed to support them in all they do, no matter what. I've always supported his every decision, even before we were married. I know I'm asking a lot, but I just feel he should have given it more thought before deciding against it. So, it looks as if it's coming to an end, and I hate it. It makes me sick.

I love him more than life itself, but what do I do? Do I deny this calling I have, or stay in my small town, resenting the fact I didn't get to do what I was meant to do?

You have to be a very strong, united front, to be able to survive a military marriage. With the imminent chances of deployment (not just to Iraq or Afghanistan, but anywhere), the strenuous work, the strict rules and regulations, and the hard core values of the Air Force (primarily, Service Before Self), it's a very hard thing to cope with as a civilian. You can't really understand the need or the want to do it all.

My advice is this: be 100% sure that this is what you want. Getting to the point of swearing in, then the arrival at BMT, you have to want this more than anything. Yes, anything. My recruiter has always said this. You have to want it more than your spouse, your parents, school, work, all of it. You can't go into BMT not being 100%, or you're destined to fail. Before talking with a recruiter, you should be at least 75% sure this is what you want. After, you should be 100%, or just don't go on with the process. You won't make it. And if you're married, you have to make sure your spouse is at the same level as you, in regards to going through with it. If they're not, you'll be where I am: a crossroad. It's definitely not a fun place, and it's hard to choose. You have to do what is best for you, and follow through. You won't always have the opportunity to join, with the cuts all the branches are making, and the constant chance of getting injured, aging, etc. You have to act now. It's kinda like having kids; you're not getting any younger.

If you have any questions, suggestions, advice, anything, feel free to post. This is a very sensitive subject, and it always requires full attention. Don't go into marriage, the military, or anything half-heartedly. They're all serious commitments, and breaking that commitment has huge repercussions. Not just on you, but everyone around you. Thanks for reading!

"Sometimes bad things happen in life to open up your eyes to the good things you weren't paying attention to before." ---- I saw this on my friends FB status just now, so I thought I'd add this in =]

Interview With An Airman

I decided to conduct this interview with my sister-in-law, Jessica, to give a little insight into BMT/Tech School/Operational life. If you're on any of the FB BMT groups, you've already talked with several people that are operational. I like hearing from multiple people, because everyone has a different experience. Also, she's my sister-in-law, I trust her. She knows me, and knows how I'd probably handle a lot of the situations that arise during the course of my training. I have to say, she's been incredibly patient with me! Before I went to MEPS, I was calling/Skyping/messaging her all of the time. I swear, she must've been ready to kill herself haha! But, without her (and her hubby!) I wouldn't have been anywhere near prepared mentally for MEPS. I Skyped them that night at the hotel, and they just told me to relax, it wouldn't be that bad. She's a wonderful person, and can offer more information for those of you wondering about enlisting, BMT, Tech School, or life as an Airman and a mom/wife. (Shoutout to my super adorable, brains-eating nephew, Misha!! Auntie loves you!) Read away!!!



Q: What's your name and rank? 
Jessica, A1C (Airman First Class/E3)

Tell us a little about yourself (why you joined, etc.)  
I am 23. I live in Japan with my husband who is also active duty and I just had my first son, Misha. I am going to school and I just finished all my credits for my Community College of the Air Force degree. I am also just a few classes away from my Bachelors in accounting. I joined because my husband and I wanted to raise our family in a military lifestyle. Also, I like change.

Q: What is your AFSC?
1P0X1, Aircrew Flight Equipment



Q: RES/ANG/AD?
Active Duty

Q: When did you go through BMT/Tech School? 
Basic: March 8, 2011-May 6, 2011 
Tech: June 9, 2011-August 28, 2011

Q: What was your dorm duty? 
Latrine crew

Q: Compared to the list on this blog, what would you recommend/not recommend packing for BMT? 
Pack make-up, real bra, comfortable underwear, flat iron, good razors, watch, stationery, NO GUM, stamps (lots of them), and definitely shower shoes.

Q: What did you do to prepare yourself for BMT? 
I watched a lot of videos, talked to my sister and cousin who were both in the Air Force.

Q: Did you ever have a 341 pulled? If so, for what? 
Not in basic, but I did in tech school for not stopping my SMU (small marching unit) at a street. I did get in A LOT of trouble in basic for writing letters before they said we could. Don’t do that. =]

Q: What is PT like at BMT? 

It’s a lot of fun. You run three days a week. You run thirty minutes together, then thirty minutes of continuous running/sprints. The other days, you do push-ups, sit-ups, and other calisthenics. 

Q: What was the best thing/experience that happened to you while there? 
The best thing was seeing my husband (he was three weeks ahead of me). Other than that, the O-course was amazing. It was the funnest thing I have experienced in my life. 

Q: What was the worst thing/experience that happened to you while there? 
Getting sick was horrible. Everyone gets sick, but you’re already tired and rundown – it just makes it worse. Also, I didn’t pin my hands while doing a left face and I had to stand in the middle of the squadron by myself and do a left face while everyone walked by and looked at me. Also, my flight forgot about me and another MTI took pity on me and told me to go back to them. 

Q: What is the best advice you could give to any future trainee to survive BMT? 
Do what you’re told. Don’t be annoying. Be quiet. STUDY! Never assume that an MTI is talking to you. If they yell, “Hey You!” walk the other way.

Q: What's operational life like compared to the world of BMT?
It’s way different. Laid back; I bullshit with my boss (MSgt) all the time. NCOs are less scary. I do miss BMT a lot. It would be a lot of fun to go back.


Again, another big thank you to Jess for taking time out to answer these questions! If you guys have any more, feel free to comment, and she'd be happy to help you out! If she forgets to check, I'll remind her ;] Thanks for reading!

The Forbidden: Aptitude Areas (More Commonly Known As Open Contracts)!

I said I was going to post about this, so here we go!

Within the Air Force, we have such things called Aptitude Areas, otherwise known as Open Contracts. These occur frequently. Some of you may be wondering what they are exactly, while others know exactly what I'm talking about! When you go to MEPS, you have an interview of sorts with your liaison in which you make a list, and essentially, pick your jobs. When doing this, you list a maximum of 10 jobs, and 1 Aptitude Area. Before you even leave for MEPS, let alone talk to your liaison about jobs, know what jobs you're interested in! Make a list, and bring it with you, and number them (1 being your top pick, and 10 being your last). They are more than willing to accommodate this for you! While you're listing your jobs, be thinking about what aptitude you want to list. If you're open to pretty much anything, ask which jobs drop most frequently within your squadron. For mine, it's Mech. and Elec.. But, if you're a bit more choosy, look at what jobs you picked the most of. Or, if you will only take a medical job, for example (which I strongly dis-advise) then list a Gen. Aptitude.

When you get back from MEPS, you and your recruiter should talk about what you listed, that way he/she knows what to look out for the most. They can see your list already, but by talking to them you let them know what you're most interested in, or what have you. I just added about 6 more jobs total to mine, but had to eliminate one of the original ones I listed, because I ran out of room. If you're like me, and open to basically anything, let your recruiter know!!! I can't stress that enough. I'm, fortunately, a favorite of my recruiter's because I also do what is asked of me, show up to the DEP CC's every month, and get back with him in a timely manner. This will work in my favor when the monthly job drops occur! He knows to lookout for something I may like, and get me shipped out faster!

Okay, back on topic of the open contracts. There are so many bad misconceptions about them. Basically, you won't get "stuck" with something you don't want. The one and only way this could happen is if you don't qualify for anything else on the list.

                                                      (Lies!)

When you accept an open contract (Let's say it's a General one), you accept the fact that you won't know what your job is until around 7WOT in BMT. From what I've been told, around 4WOT, you will go and view what jobs are available under the General area (since that's what you chose, remember?!). Let's say you made a 92 on your ASVAB, with a score of 85 in General. Well, you have your handy dandy list you made of jobs you'd like, and you're cross referencing that list to what's available. List as many jobs as you can! But, be aware that if you list something you don't really care for, or don't want at all, there is a great chance you may end up with it. So don't list something just to fill up space, make sure you'd be okay with it! Anyway, let's say your most wanted jobs are Public Affairs, Cryptologic Linguist, Loadmaster, Diet Therapy, EOD, In-Flight Refueling, and SERE. (Granted, these all range dramatically, but just go with it =]) You absolutely do not want Security Forces, which is the most popular job, I believe, to be given on an Open Gen contract. Now, let's say you didn't qualify for the Loadmaster and (I think) In-Flight Refueling, because you're 5'3", and to qualify for any airborne job, you must be a minimum of 5'4". So, there's 2 of your 7 jobs automatically gone. You didn't list Security Forces, so you're in the clear. You scored well enough on the ASVAB, that you definitely qualify for the other jobs for that aspect. You also have to take into consideration Security Clearances, vision, depth perception, etc. We'll say you passed them all with flying colors!

Since you're more than qualified for all the jobs you listed, you should expect to get one. The difference between listing jobs at MEPS, then waiting around for months for you to get a particular job, and going Open to BMT, is that you get first pick! While you're stuck at home, waiting around for a job, the trainees at BMT are picking over your jobs! Essentially, you get sloppy seconds. You have a better chance of getting the job you want by going Open, than you do waiting around for months on end. You could've already graduated BMT and Tech School, and be at your first duty station by the time your 1 year DEP contract expires. Think about it that way. Another difference, however, is that not every job in the General aptitude area are going to be on the BMT list. Only the spots they have open within the entire Air Force.

I hope I've thoroughly explained this, and have answered any question you all may have. If I think of anything  that I left out, I'll make sure to update! Feel free to comment! =]

MEPS

Okay, time for my longgg tale of my adventure to the MEPS. This was another video attempt (I broke it up into two parts) that took roughly an hour combined. Who wants to watch the same person talk for an hour?! Yeah. Anyway.

So, I received the call I would finally be going to MEPS on the 4th of July. I was floating on the river (something my family always does) for over 5 hours. I get back to my car, check my phone and immediately notice a text from my recruiter. He said he finally had all my waivers/paperwork cleared and if I was ready, I'd head to MEPS on 18 July. Of course I said yes! But, with exactly two weeks to go, I immediately realized I needed to lose 8 pounds to be at max weight, and 13 to be at the 5 under my recruiter wanted. It was time to buckle down. I literally survived off of tuna (straight from the can) and water for those two weeks. Actually, 11 days. My recruiter gave me an amazeballs diet to get the last few pounds off. I would lose a max of 5 lbs in those 3 days, and would eat the weirdest stuff. Now, I'm a girl and we generally don't share our weight, but I honestly will share everything with you. Nothing to be ashamed of, we all have our things. My recruiter measured me at 5'1", which meant max weight was 145. I had JUST finished my period (TMI, I know), so I was still a little bloated and had gained a few pounds. I was at the highest I've ever been, 153. EEEEEKKKK!! I had my work cut out for me, but I managed it! My recruiter measured me again roughly a week, give or take, before MEPS. I was somehow 5'1" 7/8, so he was hoping they'd give me 5'2" for an extra 5 lbs, just in case.

Anyway, that's the little bit of background I will give you into this. It actually plays a significant part in this story.

So MEPS. Right. We departed on a Tuesday around 2:15, 2:30 ish for our closest MEPS. It generally takes 30-45 mins to get there. However, we got stuck behind the WORST drivers doing 50 in a 70. We ended up arriving at the hotel around 3:30ish. Oh, another thing, another guy in my DEP came with us. Anyway, we got there, went into the MEPS arrival room, got our room keys, checked in, blah blah blah. We were on separate floors, of course, but I was directly above his room. We went and got settled in our room, and I realized I didn't have a roomie. I was rather excited about it at first, but then.....well, more on that later. =]

After getting settled in, we went to dinner at 1700. He had a couple of rolls, while I had a spinach salad. When I say that, I literally mean it. Only spinach leaves. I hate dressing, so I never eat it anyway. But I ate it just to satisfy myself, since that wouldn't add any weight to me. We decided we would meet in the fitness room a little later. I piddled around in my room a bit longer, and Skyped (from my phone, I had forgotten my laptop) my sister in law and her husband. They gave me a few pointers, of course and just told me to stay calm. After that, my fellow DEPper and I met in the fitness room. I had on 6, yes SIX layers of clothes. We both needed to sweat off as much weight as possible, so we took it pretty easy, not wanting to stress our bodies. He went harder than I did, because my knee had started to feel a little sore. I did the stationary bike for about a mile, then alternated walking/running on the treadmill for about a mile. I then went and sat outside in allllll of my clothes in about 98* heat. It sucked, but you gotta do what you gotta do. We had a briefing later that evening at 2030, so it was about 1800 at this point. I decided to run to the ice machine to fill up my bag/bucket so I could ice my knee. I didn't take anything for it, not wanting to jeopardize anything. I sat in the room with that ice on my knee until roughly 2015. I went and met my AF buddies I had made in the MEPS room, and just hung out until the briefing. It was over pretty fast, so we all decided to hit the fitness room one last time. (For privacy purposes, we're going to call my fellow DEPper John.) John and I stayed a bit longer than the other AF guys, then went back to our rooms. I took a shower, and decided that sitting in that tiny bathroom with the door shut and shower on full blast hot water was like my own version of a sauna. I sat in there like that for about 10 minutes, then got up and got dressed. Almost as soon as I was dressed, my roomie walked in! She was going into the Navy Reserves, I learned. (The reason I was excited about getting a roomie at the end was because there were about 6 creepers lurking the halls/property of the hotel, and wouldn't leave me alone, so I felt better having another person in the room.) Anyway, we chatted for a bit, and then went to bed late, around 2300. Next thing I know, I hear the foghorn alarm of my iPhone blaring. That meant it was 0330, and time to get up and start getting ready for the day. We both got dressed, did our hair and full make-up (a feat in itself at that hour), packed up, and headed to the check-out. Breakfast was being served, and smelled oh so delicious! Of course, I didn't eat OR drink anything at all. All in the name of the Air Force. All the people (about 25 or less) processing that day met in the front of the hotel as soon as they finished eating. We all waited around for about 15 minutes before the bus was ready to be loaded.

We arrived at the MEPS around 0600, when a soldier came onto the bus and called role. He then explained the rules and regulations of the MEPS, and then we went inside. (I have to add, it felt oddly what BMT may feel like. Minus the yelling/scrambling/overall fear) We had to put our bags through the x-ray machine, put all metallic items in the bin, and walk through a metal detector. Just like an airport. We then were directed to metal lockers to place our bags in (keep in mind that you absolutely are not allowed to leave anything at the hotel, as you won't be going back, and are checking out). We did that, were sent to a large waiting area, and waited for our liaisons. The AF liaison was the first to walk through, not even 5 minutes after we had sat down. He briefed us on what would be happening, and how he expected the 4 of us to behave. We then did the lift test, where you lift 3 different amounts above your head. Easy peasy. We filled out a small survey, and wrote in letters in the corner. Those letters are a code that states how much you're able to lift. He then printed out a label with our name and branch, that we had to have on all day. Anyway, from here, it gets a little blurry. There was so much going on, and so many people going in different directions, I hardly remember anything. First, I think I processed at the control desk, where they took a few fingerprints, and a picture. I was then sent to Medical to start on my physical. I think I did the hearing test first. Tip: hold your breath as much as possible when doing this. It keeps from hearing the LOUD whooshing sound as you're straining to hear the light beeps. After that, I had my BP and pulse taken. My pulse was a 96, because of my nerves. My BP wasn't bad, 105/78. After that, came the interview with the doctor. The doctor I had was very nice, as was the entire staff at my MEPS. They truly tried to make you feel comfortable, since they knew how you were feeling. Best experience ever. Anyway, he asked me the basics, "Ever done drugs?" "Piercings, tattoos, etc.?" It was very quick. And painless. Hahaha!

I'm going to end this post here, since I have a few errands to run right fast. I'll post the rest tonight, I'm about halfway through! Happy Reading!