Stone Mountain, GA (USA)

[visited Stone Mountain Park for the day - (Katie and her family went with us ?) - (barn games ?) - due to holiday hours, preemptively picked up some great treats (including candy canes, snowmen and peanuts) at the "Candy Shop" (1300L) - ate a late lunch at Miss Katie's Sideboard, "Home of the Hand Tossed Rolls" (finished at 1435L) - (stayed until dark ?)]

Marietta, GA (USA)

[Christmas Light Show at Life University in Marietta]

Lima (Peru)

Woke up around 0745 and got some breakfast in the hotel/casino restaurant (0815).  At 0840, We checked out of the JW Marriott Hotel and Stellamaris Casino and then headed off to the airport. It took awhile to get there (more traffic chaos). After getting the aircraft ready, we got airborne (1200) and made good time back to Comalapa, El Salvador (fuel).  The scenery along the South American and Central American coasts was beautiful.  Our next leg took us to Gulfport (MS), so we could clear customs.  After this process was completed and we'd fueled up our jet, we flew back to NAS Atlanta (arrived at around 2200L).  What an interesting trip!

Lima (Peru)

[Mission to South America] Had the opportunity to visit Peru today - what a treat! Was flying with Mike B.. These trips apparently used to happen all the time but are now pretty rare. Enroute to South America, we stopped for fuel in El Salvador (Comalapa).  Once airborne again, we crossed the Isthmus and flew west of Colombia and Ecuador.  During this flight, I officially crossed the Equator for the first time.  No fanfare or ceremony (like there would have been onboard a ship) but it still felt like a big deal accomplishment.  We arrived in Lima at around 1700L. The streets were pure chaos - they don't stay in any lanes! Somehow, we safely made it from the airport to the Miraflores area of the city.  We got to stay in the JW Marriott Hotel and Stellamaris Casino (very swanky), which was located on a cliff overlooking the ocean. We were in our rooms by around 2115L and then walked around nearby.  We eventually found a nice mall complex and ate dinner at a place called La Vaca Loca (2235L).  The food was pretty good and I didn't make it back to my room until quite late...

Jacksonville, FL (USA)

[flew with MJ (Mike) from Atlanta to Jacksonville and back (afternoon) - Change of Command (self parking on the other side of the base) ?]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 6

[Got up early and drove up into Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Colorado - we had enough time to do some sightseeing and purchase souvenirs (1055L) before driving back to the airport. Returned rental car (1455L) and made it to our gate with very few problems. Flew from Denver to Atlanta and made it in very late.]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 5

[downtown Denver with Joy and Ken - stayed overnight in Residence Inn again]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 4

[Checked out of the Broadmoor around 1000L - stopped at Garden of the Gods Visitor Center one more time for souvenirs (1130L) - drove to Pike's Peak and went to the top - bought some snacks (1315L) - cell phone call to Dad, bursting soda cans... - picked up some great souvenirs at The Summit House at Pikes Peak (1405L) - after we got back to the bottom of the mountain, we drove up to Florissant Fossil Beds and learned a lot during an interesting visit. After that (1630L), we continued north to the Denver area and checked into our Residence Inn in Westminster. Visited Joy and Ken for a late dinner (cookout)]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 3

[visited Air Force Academy and Garden of the Gods with Breton and her grandmother]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 2

[visiting with family in the morning - took our kids (along with Megan and Erin) to the "North Pole Santa's Workshop", a Christmas-themed amusement park in Cascade, Colorado - we had a great time on the rides and got to see Santa - stayed until dark and picked up some good souvenirs on the way out (1710L) - by the time we got back to the Broadmoor, it was dinner time - we first tried to meet the large group at a restaurant in Colorado Springs but the wait would have been over two hours - instead, ended up taking all the kids (and Ellen) to eat at California Pizza Kitchen - everyone had a great time]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 1

[drove to the Hartsfield airport around 0500L for our flight from Atlanta to Denver - it turned out to a only a partially filled flight (with room for the kids to spread out!) - we arrived in Colorado before (0800L) and picked up rental car (Hertz) - after getting our bearings (and breakfast ?), we began our drive down to Colorado Springs - it took nearly two hours to get there - we still arrived at the Broadmoor Hotel with plenty of time to get ready for Thanksgiving dinner - we had a great time visiting with the family!]

Atlanta, GA (USA)

[Atlanta Falcons - Tennessee Titans game at Georgia Dome with Chip - rode on MARTA]

Key West, FL (USA)

[date uncertain (could be 21st) - Wing Conference Pickup - lots of guest pilots - flew from Atlanta to Key West, then to New Orleans (long landing by guest pilot), then to Millington, then back home]

Marietta, GA (USA)

[FCF flight with Jamie]

Minot, ND (USA)

[date uncertain (could be 16th) - flight with Mike M. - Atlanta to Minot to Colorado Springs and back to Atlanta]

Whidbey Island, WA (USA)

[left Great Falls just after midnight - arrived in Whidbey Island around 0200L - stayed near the airplane (CBQ) - went to sleep and woke up just before noon - checked out of my room at 1140L - flew home to arrive in Atlanta just before 2300L]

Great Falls, MT (USA)

[route check with Ray - flew to Norfolk - had to stop twice - Madison (?), Wisconsin and Great Falls, Montana at midnight]

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 7

Checked out of our rental home again and left for Atlanta (0900). A good drive all the way - good way to finish the vacation. And I didn't forget my laptop again, either...

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 6

We went over to Disney World one more time today - we had one day left on our pass. On the way out of the park, I told everyone to get their hands stamped (not for any particular reason, but it worked out later). Got gas in Kissimmee before leaving the Orlando area. Got on the highway, headed back towards Atlanta around 1400L. Suddenly (around 100 miles later), I had one of those "Oh No!" moments - I realized that I had left my laptop in the rental house! The panic wore off quickly, though, when I realized I could probably extend my leave. After calling work - and getting an extra day off - we turned the car around to retrieve the computer. Fortunately, the rental place hadn't been cleaned yet (since we actually had one more night in the place that we hadn't planned to use) and the key worked to back in... After putting my hands on the laptop (whew!), we headed back to the Disney Resort. We spent a few more hours over at the Magic Kingdom. Everyone was very happy to have the chance - an unexpected bonus!

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 5

Spent a few hours with Dad and Beth before they had to leave to catch their flight. Afterwards, we headed over for another day at Disney World! We bought some princess gear for the kids at "Sir Mickey's" (1340), "Tinker Bell's Treasures" (1350) and "The King's Gallery" (1400). Ended up at Epcot, much later, where I enjoyed HUGE beers at the Germany Biergarten. We also got some food at the Electric Umbrella (1905).  The kids had fun doing the Chicken Dance and we stayed a long time (left at 2130).  [Did we stay to watch the light show?]

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 4

Enjoyed another day at Disney - this time at the kids' favorite part of the Resort: Animal Kingdom! Dad and Beth seemed to be enjoying themselves. Ate lunch at Restaurantosaurus. After getting our fill of the rides and seeing lots of animals, we went back to the Magic Kingdom for one more evening of fun with the Grandparents...

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 3

Woke up as early as we could and then headed over for another day at Disney World. Dad and Beth wanted to check out Epcot again. Ate a late breakfast at Norway Akershus (finished at 1100). We had a good day walking around the International Showcase. Got a snack at Margarita Kiosk (1430). The kids enjoyed visiting the many countries. I was kind of surprised when Dad said they would be leaving on Sunday (I guess the dates got mixed up somehow?)... Oh well. After a full day of fun, we drove over to Winter Haven to spent Halloween night with Nicky's relatives. The kids had a great time trick-or-treating with their little cousins and lots of other kids their age. It was a good night...

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 2

We woke up in our rental with Dad and Beth. The girls had fun with them as we got ready to head over to Disney World. We got there around 0900 and managed to het our Military Appreciation "Park-Hopper" tickets before 0930. Our first stop inside the Park was Mickey's Star Traders (0935), for autograph books and pens. The kids had a great time with their grandparents - riding on rides and walking around holding hands. Got some lunch at Pecos Bills (1205).  We spent all day at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. There were not a lot of people in the parks today - it was great to have the rides to ourselves! Around 1700, Nicky's Aunt Barbara met up with us at the Polynesian. We got an unexpected treat - they had a Luau going on and we got to watch a Fire Dance. Later, we went in to "Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween" party. There were tons of people there! We were glad we had already been on the rides, since we could barely get on ANY. We got good seats for the parade, though - it was great! The Headless Horseman rode around on the streets and then all the characters came by - dressed in Halloween costumes. We left very late.

Disney Halloween Trip - Day 1

I had some work to do at the office, but I managed to escape a little early today. Despite the "head start" we immediately found a huge traffic jam as we started south on I-75. We made slow, but steady, progress but (in frustration) we eventually stopped to eat a meal at Cracker Barrel in Macon, Georgia (finished 1450L). We got back on the road and struggled on through a construction zone until the traffic mess cleared up. With some minor exceptions, the rest of the trip was nearly traffic-free. Unfortunately, the delay made us extremely late to meet Dad and Beth (they were already in Orlando by the time we passed I-10...). When they called us from the airport, we told them we would be late and gave them the combination for the rental home. Made it to Orlando at 2200L and found our rental pretty easily (at Indian Creek - near Formosa Garden). The place is great: we got it through American Vacation Homes and we get five nights (sixth free). It has three bedrooms and a pool. Dad and Beth had figured everything out, so we just had to put the kids to bed...

Key West, FL (USA)

[flight from Atlanta to Cherry Point to Mayport to Virginia Beach to Key West - then home]

St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador (Canada)

After a nice sleep, I checked out of the Mid-Atlantic Lodge - we soon departed from Lajes Air Base and headed for Canada. We stopped for fuel in St. Johns, Newfoundland and then flew to Norfolk (for our lift).  On the last leg (Norfolk to Atlanta), I was able to get some aircraft commander time (while flying with Scott E.).  Great trip!

Rota, Andaluzia (Spain)

We checked out of the Mid-Atlantic Lodge this morning and left Lajes Air Base a bit later.  We (Scott E. and I) flew to Mainland Europe and landed at Naval Station Rota.  After taking care of airlift requirements, we were able to quickly depart again and headed back towards the USA.  We landed later at Lajes Air Base. After checking back into the Mid-Atlantic Lodge, we left to base and ate dinner at O' Pescador's in Praia Vitoria (finished just after midnight, 0015L). To speed up the checkout process in the morning, I took care of my bill before going to bed.

Terceira, Azores (Portugal)

[Mission to Europe]  Got another international trip - the overall itinerary involved a series of flights from Atlanta to Spain and back.  Score!  Even better: I got to fly with one of my best friends, Scott E.  Our first day was pretty uneventful - we stopped in St. Johns, Newfoundland for fuel and then flew to the Azores.  We spent the night at the Mid-Atlantic Lodge at Lajes Air Base.

Fort Worth, TX (USA)

[itinerary uncertain - lost oil pressure (cap was loose) on the way to Fort Worth - with Chippy]

Gulfport, MS (USA)

[training flight (TAC upgrade) with Ron H - Atlanta to Mayport to Gulfport (Keesler) to Atlanta - I thought we were done for the day but we got a mission modification when we landed - we ended up with an additional two legs (out/in NAS Norfolk) - made it back to NAS Atlanta late]

Martinsburg, WV (USA)

[training flight with Ray - bad weather (especially in Florida) - Atlanta to Panama City (Tyndall) to Mayport to Norfolk to Martinsburg (Shepherd Field) to Atlanta]

Jacksonville, FL (USA)

Checked out of the Holiday Inn (Orange Park on US-17) before heading to NAS Jacksonville.  [Had class all morning and was only able to leave town at about 1300].  To get back to Douglasville, I used I-10 until I reached I-75 and then took it all the way to Atlanta.  Arrived home around 2100L.  Glad to be done with the training...

Jacksonville, FL (USA)

Ate breakfast at Damon's (in the hotel). [Spent the whole day in class] Bought souvenirs for the kids. Drove through our old neighborhood (in Mandarin). Had dinner at the Mandarin Express (1800). Staying at Holiday Inn (Orange Park).

Jacksonville, FL (USA)

Drove down to Jacksonville for my water survival course. Took I-75 all the way to I-10. Brought food with me so I wouldn't have to stop. Made it all the way to Macclenny, Florida, before I had to stop for gas (1815L). Arrived at my hotel (Holiday Inn on US-17) in Jacksonville around 1900L.

Huntsville, AL (USA)

[ITAC training flight with Scott E - Atlanta to Norfolk to Camp Springs to Huntsville (Redstone Arsenal) to Camp Springs to Louisville (Standiford) to Atlanta]

St. Louis, MO (USA)

Had sim period (with Jim K.) early. Checked out of Residence Inn Galleria by 1000, got gas at a Shell Station on Old Saint Charles [Street] (1450) and returned my rental car to the Dollar desk at the airport (1500).  Had planned on getting out of St. Louis before 1400. Instead, Jim K and I got stuck (in our aircraft) on the ramp at Lambert, waiting for a thunderstorm in Atlanta to clear. It took almost two hours before we actually took off (1635L). Even though we arrived in Atlanta by 1915, we then had some delays (parking, deplaning, baggage) at Hartsfield. As a result, I didn't retrieve my car from the long term parking lot until 2145.  With the drive to reach home, I wasn't actually in Douglasville until around 2200.  Still, it was a good good trip, overall!

St. Louis, MO (USA)

[Class and/or Simulators at FSI (with Jim K.) - dinner and drinks at John D. McGurks Irish Pub (until 2200L) - staying at Residence Inn Galleria]

St. Louis, MO (USA)

[Class and/or Simulators at FSI (with Jim K.) - staying at Residence Inn Galleria]

St. Louis, MO (USA)

[Class and/or Simulators at FSI (with Jim K.) - staying at Residence Inn Galleria]

St. Louis, MO (USA)

[Recurrent Simulator Training] Woke up at 0400 and drove over to the airport - I parked my car in the long term lot there. Got a seat on an American Airlines flight out of Atlanta (0730) and arrived in Saint Louis at 0800L. Picked up my rental car at the Dollar desk (0815) and drove down to Residence Inn Galleria, hoping to stash my stuff.  They were nice and let me check in early (0840) I even got to have some of the breakfast buffet too! From them, I got directions to Grant's Farm - I wanted to check it out in advance of our family vacation trip this summer... Stopped at an ATM in Webster Groves at 1045. Before I went into the park, saw that a former home of President Grant was open for a visit (that's where the name "Grant's Farm" comes from, I guess). It was interesting to tour this place - we had a good guide. The whole visit reminded me of the tree I saw in Tokyo last summer (see AUG 2002) that Grant planted... The nearby Adventure Park was mostly a wild animal "safari", petting zoo and Clydesdale breeding farm (the kids will like it...). I also found a nice German plaza-looking-place where you can get free samples of A-B products. Throughout the day, the weather was great. Headed back to hotel in the afternoon. Picked up Jim K (my sim partner for the week) at the airport just after dark and went back to the hotel for drinks (happy hour!). Dinner at Ven Ching Restaurant on Brentwood (finished at 2020).

Corpus Christi, TX (USA)

[training flight (ITAC) with Tim H - Atlanta to Little Rock to Corpus Christi to Atlanta]

Colorado Springs, CO (USA)

[checked out of the Hilton Garden Inn (0510L) - returned to Peterson AFB - returned rental car to Enterprise - second day of training with Shawn C. - still working out the issue of aircraft weight calculations at this high altitude - flew from Colorado Springs to Salina, Kansas (executive fuel stop), on to Camp Springs (Andrews AFB), Maryland and (finally) back to NAS Atlanta]

Colorado Springs, CO (USA)

[aircraft commander training flight with Shawn C. - flew from NAS Atlanta to Camp Springs (Andrews AFB), Maryland, and then to Colorado Springs (Peterson AFB), Colorado - got rental car (from Enterprise) and then drove to the Hilton Garden Inn (checked in at 1350L) - Shawn and I next drove up to the Air Force Academy for a short tour - on the way, I bought some gifts for Nicky and the kids (1545L) - dinner near the hotel]

Mayport, FL (USA)

[ITAC training flight with Keith - Atlanta to Mayport to Norfolk to Atlanta]

[Chattanooga, TN (USA)]

[trainer (TAC check) with Jamie - probably Chattanooga - back to Marietta]

[Pensacola, FL (USA)]

[itinerary uncertain - flight with Brady F. - probably Pensacola Regional airport]

Marietta, GA (USA)

[trainer with Scott - location uncertain (stayed near Marietta?)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 16

[already driving in Georgia after midnight... - got gas in Thomson - continued on to Atlanta - arrived in Douglasville (in the middle of the night ?)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 15

[left Raleigh (after a visit with Aunt Nelle and Uncle Terry) - using I-95 again - got gas in Fayetteville, North Carolina (1935L) - through South Carolina and into Georgia just before midnight...]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 14

[left our hotel in Exton in the morning and drove over to Lancaster County (PA) - went to Strasbourg Railroad - headed south into Maryland (did we stop in DC ?) - got gas (1335L) and then picked up lunch at Burger King in Triangle (near Quantico), Virginia (1345L) - using I-95 and I-85 (to US-1 ?), drove to North Carolina to see Aunt Nelle and Uncle Terry - stayed in Residence Inn Raleigh]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 13

[left our hotel early - drove to Sesame Place in Langhorne (arrived at 1030L) - spent the whole day there and had a GREAT time - back to our hotel in Exton]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 12

[got gas at Bibbs Service Center in Quincy (0915L) - picked up groceries at Shaws (1010L) - headed south on I-95 through Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York and New Jersey (did we use the Turnpike ?) - we crossed into Pennsylvania - it was good to return to the Lancaster County - arrived at Residence Inn in Exton around 1730L - there were some tough turnarounds on the roads (I actually had to "exit" and wait at a light to change in order to make turns!) - after getting things unpacked, I drove the family into Philadelphia to see the Liberty Bell - we walked around for a while in the early evening - (ate some cheesesteaks for dinner ? - Nicky liked them) - picked up some supplies at the Clemens Market in Lionville (1905L) - went back to the hotel after dark (for swimming ?)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 11

[spent most of the day at the Boston Children's Museum (arrived at 1000L) - then walked over to the Boston Public Garden, where we took lots of photos at the "Make Way for Ducklings" statues - had a chance to stop by at the "Bull & Finch" pub (inspiration for the Television show, "Cheers") for a souvenir T-Shirt (1650L) - ate a big dinner (with lots of family) at Siro's Restaurant in North Quincy (finished at 1937L) - Katie's for the night]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 10

Slept in and then drove over to celebrate the Fourth with Katie's friends in Hingham. On the waterfront, we had fun with a live band and beautiful view of the harbor. Fireworks after dark.

Cape Cod Trip - Day 9

I visited Bryan in the morning and found out they had more work to do on the car.  Nicky went shopping with Beth at the Barn & Co.  In the afternoon, I used one of Dad's cars to take Nicky and the kids to the Marshside for lunch (we finished eating at 1535).  After the car was completely repaired (1605), I picked up the family and we drove to Quincy so we could stay with Katie.

Cape Cod Trip - Day 8

[visiting with Bryan, Chuck and Mike - (while they) worked on our car (Grand Voyager) - have to bring it back tomorrow - back to house for visiting - ATM in South Dennis (2100L)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 7

[(in the morning ?) we went to the beach with Katie and her family - got some gas and visited Bryan - after lunch, we visited the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster (arrived at 1215L) - after that (1515L), cleaned up Mom's grave site (Brewster)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 6

[bought some Cuffy's t-shirts and sweatshirts (1225L) - also bought some clothes at "The Shoe Department" at the Southwind Plaza in Hyannis (1310L) - bike rental on Cape Cod Rail Trail - with Dad and Beth]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 5

[visiting with Dad and Beth - got ice cream! - (Dad's boat in Bass River ?) - picked up some supplies at Dennis Public Market (1645L)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 4

[got up early again - left Danbury and took I-84 to I-90 (until reaching MA-128/I-95 ?) - we got off the Interstate to eat lunch at Taco Bell in (East Walpole, MA ?) at 1315 - (making our way to I-495 ?) - then continued to the southeast until we crossed the Cape Cod Canal - staying with Dad & Beth - visiting with family - (Brewster Mill ?)]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 3

[woke up early - got gas in Chambersburg (0910L) and then drove over to Hershey for a tour of the chocolate factory - souvenirs at Hershey's Chocolate World (1230L) - drove north on I-81 and stopped for late lunch at McDonald's in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania - made a mistake at the I-84 intersection and ended up headed south on I-380 - shrugged that off and took I-80 towards New York City, figuring I could just by-pass the city on I-287 - that was a BIG mistake (LOTS of traffic!) - [eventually got across the Hudson on the Tappan Zee ?] - we had planned to be on in Massachusetts by evening, but because of the problems, we knew we'd never made it - instead, made our way back to I-84 and used a reward certificate for a free night at the Springhill Suites in Danbury, Connecticut - got gas after getting the kids settled]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 2

[visited Kentucky Horse Park all morning - bought souvenirs (1240L) and ate lunch there (1245L) before departing Lexington - drove east on I-64 and into West Virginia - got gas just west of Huntington, in Kenova (1505L) - then switched to I-79 - dinner at Pizzaria Uno near Clarksburg - after that, got on I-68 and continued east all the way to I-81 - beautiful mountains! - when we arrived in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, we got a free hotel night at Fairfield Inn]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 1

[Family Trip! - left Atlanta and drove north on I-75 into Tennessee - through Knoxville - after getting gas in Carryville (1500L), we got off the Interstate and used US-25W and TN-63 to get to US-25E - drove into the Cumberland Gap National Historic Park - placed our feet in three states! - used the gap to get into Kentucky (like Daniel Boone!) - ate dinner at the First Kentucky Fried Chicken in Corbin (1815L) - stayed at the Residence Inn in North Lexington - went swimming outside with the kids in the dark]

[Phoenix, AZ (USA)]

[itinerary uncertain - flight with Mike B. - probably the one when we went to Sky Harbor in Phoenix (wave off Southwest)]

Marietta, GA (USA)

[trainer with Scott - V1 cut]

Marietta, GA (USA)

[trainer with Jamie]

Goose Bay, Newfoundland & Labrador (Canada)

After checking out of the Flughotel (Icelandair Hotels) and returning to NAS Keflavik, we left Iceland this morning, bound for an unexpected stop in a very remote spot! I had once thought of driving up to Goose Bay, in the hinterland of Labrador (see 1990), but the roads did not seem good enough to take that risk at the time... Flying into the airport there was much better - I'm sure the drive would have been hell. During the arrival and departure, we saw some great views of the coast.  After fueling up our jet, we flew down to Atlanta (uneventful leg).  I arrived home (Douglasville) in the early afternoon.  Great Detachment!

Keflavik (Iceland)

Checked out of my room at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing early and met the crew on the flight line.  We soon departed Sicily - bound for home!! Stopped in England for fuel (Mildenhall Air Base).  This was just my second time in the UK. The countryside was very pleasant looking - lots of fields and livestock - from the air (during arrival and departure) and the flight from the Channel coast wasn't too long. Unfortunately, we only stopped for a short time, so I don't know much else about the area.  Maybe I can return again another day...  We next flew to Iceland and landed at NAS Keflavik very late in the afternoon. Our detachment officer-in-charge soon sorted out our lodging situation while Erik got a rental car. We then got transportation (BSK Bifreioastoo Keflavikur) to our hotel, Flughotel (Icelandair Hotels), located at [Hafnargata 57]. Despite the availability of the car that Erik had obtained, no one else except me wanted to go to see the capital, Reykjavik. Their loss... When we got there (2000L), we bought some souvenirs. As it got later, I expected some darkness - but it never came. Meanwhile, we had a nice dinner (finished at 2100L ?) and then walked around the city for a while. Bought a few more souvenirs and then rode with Erik down to the coast. We were out until close to midnight and, by then, it was still as light as day! It didn't even seem time to head back to the hotel, but we went back anyway (arriving close to 0100 ?). As I was getting ready for bed, I marveled at the room in my hotel: it was geothermally heated, with a bed sitting directly on the floor (i.e. no box spring). The midnight sun outside the window as I dozed off was stunning!

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[Worked all day. Lunch at Del Taco (1415L).] Packed all evening and took care of my room charges just after midnight. Headed to bed right after that.  Staying in NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Taormina, Sicilia (Italy)

[Had an extremely early flight today with Mike B. - we actually got night time during the first leg.  (itinerary uncertain but flight time total was 4.6 so could have been Aviano)]  After landing back at NAS Sigonella, I drove to the Navy Exchange, where I picked up some souvenirs (1150L) and Del Taco (1210L) before heading back to my room. Much later in the day, Herb came by to recommend that we should all go to Taormina for a film festival. Picked up some cash at the ATM (1800L) [and got some dinner ?] before heading north on the Autostrada. I'd been to the beautiful town on the cliffs before - very fancy - and even seen the famous amphitheater. But I learned this evening that a person really hasn't lived until they've seen a movie or play in the old Roman Theatre with Mount Etna in the background! Herb's friends met us and got us good seats. We saw a few movies (most in English with Italian sub-titles). What an experience! I can see why the builders picked the site - we had awesome views all night. Chip drove us home, headlong at break-neck speeds all the way...  Spent the night at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Souda Bay, Crete (Greece)

[very early "out and in" with Mike B. - Sicily to Souda Bay to Sicily - back to my room by 1130L - ATM withdrawal on base - staying in the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Valletta (Malta)

[Flew with Mike B. from NAS Sigonella to Valletta (Malta) - it was a quick day - in fact, I was back on base just after noon - got lunch at Subway (1305L) - staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Siracusa, Sicilia (Italy)

[no flight scheduled] Day trip: to Siracusa. According to tradition, the city is built on the site of the home of Calypso, the goddess who held Odysseus against his will (see Homer). We visited the city museum (with artifacts from the early First Millennium) and stopped at the old theatre. On the way home, we drove to Misterbianco and picked up wine for the room at the Auchan Ipermercati (1835L).  Staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Paris (France)

After a rather unsatisfying stay at the Holiday Inn Paris (Charles de Gaulle), we got a pretty early start today.  First, we rode in an airport operations van from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Le Bourget Field.  Somehow, the fact that we had some passengers to take out of France must have assisted us. The strike wasn't over, but we were able to find at least a couple of cooperative Frenchmen to help us leave. The flight from Paris to Sicily (with Mike B.) was quiet (on the radio), since the rest of the world apparently was avoiding France...  Staying at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Paris (France)

[Mission with Mike B. from NAS Sigonella to Paris.]  This was one of those amazing "lost chances." I wasn't planning to stay in Paris, but an air traffic controller strike (countrywide) caused us to be grounded. Before we landed at Le Bourget, we circled over the Eifel Tower for nearly an hour. Once on the ground, the handler took us to the site on the airport where "Lucky Lindy" got out of his airplane in 1927.  The ride from that historic location over to a hotel near the Charles de Gaulle Airport was long and took us farther from the city. When we got to the Holiday Inn Paris-Charles de Gaulle and checked into our rooms, we learned that all buses, trains and other ground transportation were also striking. This didn't deter me - I would have walked - and I had brought civilian clothes.  Unfortunately, no one else had (damn it...).  As a result, our aircraft commander told everyone to stay together.  So, we spent the entire night in a hotel bar - 20 miles from downtown Paris. You know that T-Shirt "Someone I know went to Paris and all I got was this ____ T-Shirt"? That is how the trip felt...

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[Flying with Mike B. - destinations uncertain (Naples & Olbia ?) - Staying at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.]

Patti, Sicily (Italy)

[trip to Caleca Italia factory - shopping for "seconds" finished at 1245L]

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[Worked all day. Picked up some supplies at the Shopette (1615L).  Staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.]

Split (Croatia)

Got a quick flight (with Mike B.) over to the Former Yugoslavia today. But by the time we landed in Split (Croatia), it was already dark. The weather wasn't so great, either. It is hard to believe that this place was once impossible for us to visit. I have flown over the Dalmatian Coast in the past but I never thought I would land!  We departed quickly and returned to Sicily.  Staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Agrigento, Sicilia (Italy)

[not scheduled] I would recommend a trip to Agrigento to anyone who ever dreamed of seeing the Parthenon and couldn't go to Greece. The "Valley of the Temples" (not sure why it's called that, since you are standing at the top of a huge hill when you are there) is probably the best example of Greek architecture assembled anywhere - at least that I have seen. Erik and I visited the city museum, as well, which has some great history to put everything in perspective...  [Later, we drove back to the base.  Staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.]

Souda Bay, Crete (Greece)

[Flew with Mike B. - Souda Bay and back - gyros (1230L) - Staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.]

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[not scheduled today] Headed over to buy some items at the Shopette (1315L). After getting them back to the room, a group of us drove to the other Base and I picked up some things at the Exchange (1530L). Euros at ATM (1615L).  [Dinner ?]  Staying at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Rota, Andalucia (Spain)

Had time to walk around Lajes Air Base this morning and got good views of the whitecaps on the ocean - it was clear for several miles... Checked out of my room at the Mid-Atlantic Lodge by 0945L. Departed from the Azores soon after that. The flight over to Spain was good. While the jet was fueling at Naval Base Rota, I had enough time explore near the air terminal.  I found a little store that was selling some interesting little men made out of clay, each painted to portray something unique. There were sailors, bullfighters, flamenco dancers, etc. I bought a few of them (1855L) [NOTE - when I brought them home, the kids called them "mud people". Actually, I think my dad also bought some of these he picked up over here in the late 60s or early 70s]. After we got in the air again, the trip to Italy went well. After we landed (in the dark) at NAS Sigonella, the weather that greeted us was much warmer than when I came in February... After getting our Detachment briefing, we all checked into the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.  I went to sleep immediately.  Hoping for a good Detachment!

Terceira, Azores (Portugal)

[MED Detachment] During our flights from NAS Atlanta to the Azores (Portugal), we had very nice weather all day (good views of Cape Cod and Nova Scotia). Landed for fuel at [St. John's, Newfoundland] - it was warmer in Canada and would have liked to stay...  After getting airborne again, we had no problems on the way to Terceira - it was very muggy at Lajes Air Base, though.  After checking into the Mid-Atlantic Lodge (Air Force Inns), I ate dinner at a club called the "Top of the Rock" (located on a hill overlooking the airport).  We continue east in the morning...

San Diego, CA (USA)

[ate breakfast at Faz Restaurant in the Gaslamp District of San Diego (0700L) - checked out of the Courtyard San Diego Downtown at 0710L - got transportation from there to NAS North Island - itinerary uncertain (flying with Brady F) - returned to NAS Atlanta]

San Diego, CA (USA)

[itinerary uncertain (Nellis stop with the PPR problem and the crazy TACAN SID ?) - flying with Brady F. - after getting transportation from NAS North Island to Downtown San Diego, we checked into the Courtyard San Diego (1935L) - ate dinner at Rock Bottom in Gas Lamp (2130L)]

Huntsville, AL (USA)

[probably Huntsville - trainer]

Tennessee Trip - Day 7

It was tough to leave the hotel this morning - we've had a great trip! Used I-75. Stopped for lunch at KFC in Dalton, Georgia (1055L). Home by 1500L.

Tennessee Trip - Day 6

Today's highlight was a trip to Rock City. We'd seen the signs on barns around the South but had never visited... On the way there, we had a late breakfast (AKA early lunch) at Krystal. Rock City was definitely geared for kids - lots of fairy tale dioramas in little caves along mountain ledge walkways. Nicky picked up some great souvenirs (1125L) while I explored with the kids. The girls were excited to see Cinderella and Snow White (along with many other storybook characters). The weather was great all day. We returned to the city around 1700L. Walked over for dinner at a place call Cheeburger Cheeburger - near the river. They had a challenge that if anyone could eat a one pound (!!!) burger, it would be free - you even got your picture on the wall. Nicky actually bit at this (yikes...). My quarter pound burger looked frighteningly small next to her monstrous entree... Of course, she couldn't finish it - but it will worth some humorous jibes for many years to come... Afterwards, we walked off some of the calories on a footbridge across the Tennessee River to Coolidge Park. Spent several hours there - as the sun was setting - playing ball, enjoying the ambiance. Kids even got to ride the pretty carousel there. The walk back to our hotel was sad - we have to leave tomorrow...

Tennessee Trip - Day 5

Breakfast at the hotel. Spent most of the day at the Chattanooga Creative Discovery Museum - kids had a great time. Ate a very light lunch in the museum (1400L). Finished our fun there around [1600L) and then explored the city for a while in the late afternoon. Bought souvenirs at the Carousel Christmas Shoppe (1730L). Later, went to the big event of the day: a minor league baseball game! The Chattanooga Lookouts were playing an evening game and we arrived around 0645L after a short walk from our hotel (another co-worker of mine, Ray, had recommended taking in the game while we were in town). We bought team shirts and foam "We're Number One" fingers and cheered for the team. They even hit a homerun - and it brought out the Chattanooga Choo-Choo! At the end of the game, there was a huge fireworks show - and we watched if from the grass on the outfield. Everyone was tired afterwards, but it was a great night! Luckily, our hotel was within walking distance...

Tennessee Trip - Day 4

Said a sad farewell to the cabin this morning - we shifted our trip south today. Ate breakfast at Cracker Barrel in Sweetwater (1000L). Drove towards Chattanooga and made it into town around 1230L. Checked into our hotel - the Marriott Courtyard downtown. After getting unpacked, our first stop was the Tennesee Aquarium. We've visited before, but it is a very enjoyable place - with a relaxing downward walkway from top to bottom. Spent most of the afternoon there. Dinner was at Altruda's restaurant (1800L).

Tennessee Trip - Day 3

One last day in Tellico Plains! Decided to explore on the east side of town. On the way, stopped to buy some jam and honey produced by local hill folks (Seven Sisters, 1215L) - they were very nice. Drove a little ways up the Cherohala Scenic Skyway - into the fog. Saw lots of motorcycles... Had a picnic lunch near the top of the pass but didn't go into North Carolina. On the way back into town, stopped again at the Tennesee Valley Winery in Loudon and bought a few bottles (1455L). Had dinner at a Chinese Restaurant. Got gas in Madisonville (1915L), then went back for more games and fun at the cabin. What a great opportunity this turned out to be!

Tennessee Trip - Day 2

Woke up to a beautiful sunrise - and evidence of even higher hills across a huge canyon in front of the cabin (didn't see that with the fog...). Since everyone was awake early, we drove over to visit a place called the Lost Sea in Sweetwater, Tennessee (1115L). It was pretty cool - we rode in flat bottom boats on a lake in an underground cave. We saw blind fish swimming in the pool. The kids seemed happy. Had lunch at the cafeteria and bought a few souvenirs. Drove back towards the cabin - stopped at a junk yard on the way to pick up a hub-cap for Nicky's car (we lost it yesterday). Also visited a local winery - although they don't even grow their own grapes here... Explored town a little - found some pretty sites. Had dinner at the Town Square Cafe (1900L). Played more games (video volleyball and cards) before heading to bed.

Tennessee Trip - Day 1

Started a short vacation today. We left the house in the morning and took the scenic way (through the North Georgia mountains). Arrived in Tellico Plains (our second trip here) around lunchtime - ate at the Town Square Cafe. Gas fillup (1300L). After that, we headed out of town to locate our accomodations. A co-worker of mine, Jeff, was gracious enough to let us borrow his mountain cabin for a few days. We didn't have any trouble finding it - WOW! It was nestled in some trees at the top of a hill, shrouded in fog. There was a fun rope swing for the kids, some old video games. Overall, it was perfect for getting away... Drove into town for dinner at Tellico Pizza. Also picked up some supplies at Save-A-Lot (1915L). Back at the cabin, we played games after dark - everyone in good spirits.

Mayport, FL (USA)

[flight with Mike B. - Atlanta to Mayport to Norfolk to Atlanta]

Whidbey Island, WA (USA)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - left NAS Whidbey Island just after midnight - flew home rest of night until sunrise - landed at NAS Atlanta at around 0800L - after getting all the paperwork done, I headed home to Douglasville - Nicky and kids happy to see me]

Honolulu, HI (USA)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - this morning, I explored the area near the hotel - I did some souvenir shopping at Today's Little People (1320L) - after checking out of the Outrigger Reef in the afternoon, we returned to Hickam Field - we departed Honolulu in the late afternoon - our first leg took us back through Whidbey Island (we landed there just before midnight local time)]

Honolulu, HI (USA)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - we checked out of the Outrigger Guam Resort on Tumon Bay and returned to Andersen AFB - we next flew from Guam to Wake Island (for a fuel stop) - after that, we continued on to Oahu (started reliving the same day again) - after landing in Honolulu, we got a ride from Hickam AFB to Waikiki - we checked into the Outrigger Reef (1145L ?) - ate dinner at McDonalds on Kalia just before midnight]

Tumon Bay (Guam)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - ate breakfast at Burger King (0740L) - checked out of the Misawa Inn (Air Force Inns) - once back at our aircraft, we flew from Misawa Air Base to Kadena Air Base - our next leg took us from Okinawa to Guam (Andersen AFB) - RON there - stayed in the Outrigger Guam Resort on Tumon Bay]

Misawa, Honshu (Japan)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - departed from Wake Island, enroute to the Japanese Mainland - we got nice views of several other little islands on the way - arrived in Misawa for our RON - it was very cold! - checked into the Misawa Inn (Air Force Inns) at 1435L - visited the on base club]

Wake Island (USA)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - ate breakfast at Denny's in Waikiki (finished at 0705L) - checked out of the Outrigger Reef later in the morning - skipped a full day ahead while flying from Hawaii to Wake Island]

Honolulu, HI (USA)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - checked out of Bachelor Housing at NAS Whidbey Island at 0745L - departed the Seattle area (and flew to Moffett Field ?) - our next leg was from California to Oahu - we arrived in Honolulu - parts rescue for another crew (Scott E ?) - spent the night at the Outrigger Reef]

Whidbey Island, WA (USA)

[trip to Japan with Jim and Andy - (left Atlanta late in the day) - flew from NAS Atlanta to NAS Whidbey Island - spent the night in the Bachelor Housing on base]

St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador (Canada)

Checked out of my room at the Mid-Atlantic Lodge (Air Force Inns) at 0715L. We departed Lajes Air Base on time and made our way back towards North America. Stopped for fuel in St. John's, Newfoundland - very cold! I haven't been up here in a long time, but it seems like a better place than the west side of the island... I'm told this is the standard stop on the way across the Atlantic, so I hope to have another opportunity to visit. We then departed Canada, bound for Atlanta.  Our last leg was uneventful and, after completing all the necessary paperwork, I left NAS Atlanta for home. Great Detachment!

Vila Praia da Vitoria, Azores (Portugal)

Last day of the detachment... Checked out of my room at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing very early. We departed Sicily earlier than usual (so I'm told) and had a quick turn in Rota, Spain. It all helped make it possible to arrive in Lajes early! Weather was much worse and the ride was pretty rough on final approach in the Azores (although Tim seemed unfazed). Once on the ground at Lajes Air Base, we checked into the Mid-Atlantic Lodge (Air Force Inns).  Meanwhile, Joe S. and Jamie set up transportation for dinner. We ended up eating at a great restaurant called O Pescadors tonight - the food was outstanding! I had some fish seared on a hot plate [Cataplanas]. Everyone in the group was happy and it was a great finish to our trip. We have tried to get in here before, but you need to arrive really early or he closes his doors (and the restaurant is full of people!).

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[Working all day... spent the night in the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[flew all day with Tim - (destinations uncertain - Sicily to Naples to Olbia to Naples to Sicily?) - spent the night in the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Caltagirone, Sicilia (Italy)

[quick out & in mission to Souda Bay in the morning - we had about an hour on the ground and (Tim) took me over to get some souvlaki, a kind of gyro with lamb, onions and sour cream - very tasty! - found some good souvenirs - afterwards, we flew back to Sicily]  Later, some of the guys took to visit Caltagirone, a little town in the middle of Sicily. Some of the notable things you can see here involve the delicate and brightly painted ceramic pottery they make. Even the 143 stairs leading up to the top of a hill in town are covered with ceramic tiles - you can tell the town is very proud of their ceramics.  After another afternoon of fun, we returned to the base.  Spent the night at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Siracusa, Sicilia (Italy)

[no flights today - Euros at ATM (1225L) - lunch in Motta S. Anastasia at a pizzeria (finished at 1400L) - drove south on the Autostrada to Siracusa - visited an interesting museum - (ate dinner there ?) - spent the night at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[flew all day with Tim - destinations uncertain (Sicily, Naples, Olbia, Rota, Sicily ?) - spent the night at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Patti, Sicilia (Italy)

[no flights today - picked up a disposable camera at the shopette - along with other members of the crew, drove to Patti (Caleca) for pottery "seconds" (1245L) - on the way back, we stopped in Misterbianco (Auchan) for wine (1800L) - spent the night at the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Akrotiri (Cyprus)

[flying with Tim - after taking off from NAS Sigonella this morning, we stopped at Souda Bay Air Base - I was able to pick up souvenirs there - we then flew from Crete to Cyprus (Akrotiri) - this was (like other things I've mentioned on this trip) the first time I'd ever been to this interesting place - we had great weather - I learned about flying with QFE - we were only on deck for a little while and then (flew back to Sicily) - spent the night in NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing]

Mount Etna, Sicilia (Italy)

No flights today, wo we tried to drive up the famous volcano (where Vulcan makes Jupiter's thunderbolts) today - but that was easier said than done because of the snow. We naively thought it would be an easy matter to get a small van up there with seven people. However, we soon determined that the roads were too slippery - around 5000 feet. By the time we had decided to turn around, even that was impossible. We all got out and rotated the car on the road so we could go back down. I guess we should have known that this would be too hard when we saw all the locals stopping to put their snow chains on their tires...  After this fun excursion, we returned to NAS Sigonella.  Spent the night in the Bachelor Housing.

Lentini, Sicilia (Italy)

[after spending the night at Naval Station Rota (Navy Gateway Inn), I got up early to do some shopping - after meeting the rest of the crew, we checked out of our hotel and returned to the aircraft - we then few (with Jamie) from Spain to Italy - after landing, I returned to my room at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing - at 1700L, I got some Euros at an on-base ATM]  We (me and several members of my crew) went up to see the gold that is for sale in the ancient city of Lentini this evening. This was one of the earliest Greek settlements on the island. We stopped at a local winemaker on the way and got clear glass bottles of white and red wine straight from huge casks in a big warehouse - for only one Euro! [Later note: Nicky loved this wine more than the more expensive bottles I found later in the trip] While everyone else visited the gold sellers, I strolled around town. It soon got dark and we had dinner in an upstairs restaurant nearby. The menu included five courses: antipasto, salad, pasta, meat, desert. There was a lot of wine, too...  After a fun evening in Sicily, we returned to NAS Sigonella.  Interesting day!

Ramstein (Germany)

[mission with Jamie (Sicily, Germany, Spain, Sicily) - it was supposed to be a day trip - our flight from Sigonella to Ramstein was uneventful - however, we then ended up with a VERY long delay on the ground - everything looked very "snowy": - during the delay, I got a ride to buy some gifts for the girls (1305L) and beer (Fenster-Flasche) for the crew (1320L) - ate lunch at Taco Bell (1430L) - back at aircraft, I learned that nothing had been loaded and that we still had to wait a few more hours - got a second ride to the BX with Jamie and bought more souvenirs (1650L) - we finally got on our way to Rota just before dark - due to all the delays, Jamie got permission for an overnight in Rota - we arrived very late - checked into our room at Naval Station Rota (Navy Gateway Inn) and we later caught a cab to (Santa Maria) - had some good Cuban rum - later, ate at a restaurant and tried some liquor de hierbas - took cab "home" very late]

Napoli, Campania (Italy)

Had an mission to Naples today - we flew up from Sicily (with great weather) early this morning. Saw Salerno, Amalfi Coast, Capri and got a great view of Vesuvius. Spent an hour or so at the airport then flew back to Sicily. Later in the day (1730L), had some good gelato [in Motta - via Principe Amedeo ?].  Staying the night at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

London, England (United Kingdom)

Flew mission (from Sicily) with Jamie. We landed at Stansted Airport, located on the outskirts of London.  We got a good view of the city when we were in the air. I had never been to London or the UK, and talking to the handler gave us all a feel for how fun it would be. Unfortunately, we couldn't stay...  On the way back to Italy, we saw Paris (pretty after dark). We stopped in Naples to drop off our DV and then continued on to Sicily.  We arrived "home" very late.  Staying the night at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.

Sigonella, Sicilia (Italy)

[Worked all day... In the afternoon (1500L), I went with a big group over to the shopping center and picked up groceries to last me through the trip. I was hoping to save some money, but when I got back to the room later, it became clear that the crews go out to eat every night...  Staying the night at NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing.]

Rota, Andalucía (Spain)

Checked out of my room at the Mid-Atlantic Lodge VERY early - it was still dark when we got to the aircraft. Sun came up as we were getting ready to take off from Lajes Air Base. I was surprised to see very rocky terrain visible this morning; there was a BIG mountain was near the airfield (I didn't see that yesterday...). Our flight to Europe was smooth until we got stuffed (descent clearance issued very late) on the arrival to Rota.  Fortunately, Jamie helped me out... This was my first time on mainland Spain and it seems like a nice place - even in winter, beaches look very inviting... We had a good fuel turn and no problems on the way to Sicily.  I saw Gibralter and Ibiza on the way - Sardinia too. After landing in Sigonella, we got our check-in brief and then headed to the Bachelor Housing check-in. Along with other "firsts" today, I realized I hadn't been on this island since 1999.  This time I got a much better room! [Dinner in Motta ?]

Terceira, Azores (Portugal)

[EUCOM Detachment] Left Atlanta in the morning. Stopped through Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the way - very cold (snow was so high, there were blue flags sticking out of the ground along the runway and taxiways to identify paved surfaces)! Trip to the Azores OK ee landed at Lajes Air Base in the dark.  First time in Portugal - interesting experience.  I'd read some of the history in the hotel and it was quite amazing to realize that people stumbled across this place about 600 years ago... Terceira is rainy and windy - not cold, though.  Spent the night in the Mid-Atlantic Lodge (Air Force Inns).

Douglasville, GA (USA)

[went to the movies with the kids (we saw "The Wild Thornberrys") at the Arbor Place Cinema (1425 Matinee)]

Kennesaw, GA (USA)

[dinner at Ippolito's Italian Restaurant with Kim and her family]

[Gulfport, MS (USA)]

[location uncertain - (was supposed to go out to Arizona previously) - probably Gulfport with Jeff K.]