California

10 days into Leave:

So far I have witnessed my sister become Dr. Kozawa- pictured is Dr. Kozawa, my sister Janet, and myself

Taken by my sisters boyfriend during Dr. Kozawa's graduation- my new facebook photo and new favorite photo of myself... damn I look good

The men in my sister's lives right now, Scott and Steve at my sisters graduation

Enjoying the cheese and crackers at the reception in front of Royce Hall, UCLA Campus.

That weekend we had a BBQ at my dad's place and bought everyone together for some good food, beer, and conversattion.

Also went bouldering in Black Mountain, located in the San Bernadino Mountains near San Jacinto. It was my first time rock climbing and I got a bunch of scars and blisters all over my body, it was pretty awsome though, think I found a hobby.

In Between the bouldering, we camped out- my sister, her boyfriend, and myself.

It was a beautiful area- almost felt as though I could fly...

Been taking it easy, mainly spending time with family, having a good time. Seems as though I have seemlessly transitioned into civilian/ vacation life with relative ease. There have been many people asking me questions about Iraq and I try answering the best way I can. Some things are hard to explain, but I have not had too much difficulty either answering or dodging questions.

The adventure continues...

Going back

The last couple of weeks in Germany before leave have been pretty uneventful. "work" has been pretty boring, PT in the morning is pretty much the highlight of the day. Went off to the Spielbank Saarbruken (Casino) twice in the last couple of weeks, my winnings at a total of about 220 Euros- my overall poker play in Europe thus far is even. Also checked out a fest in Manheim the other weekend with some buddies- good atmosphere, good crowd, and it was there I finally fufilled my deployment long craving of Doner Kebab- didn't quite please me the way I wanted it too, but a good post-drunk snack.

For those that do not know about Doner Kebab.... your missing out.

Also stoped by IKEA near Manheim and began to further make my home more home like- I'll try to post some pictures after I get back from California- thus far, I am very pleased with how my house is turning out.

Going home in a few days! The California adventure starts soon...

whoops, forgot the mention the second half of my super-wknd adventure. Went to my friends place in Wurzburg and chilled with him. Went to Munich for half a day and also drove down to the Kehlsteinhaus- or as the American's named "Eagles Nest" where Hitler built his summer home in the heart of Nazi Germany. Top picture is one of the many views from the top of the eagles nest.

Me and Vireak thinking "Hitler was truely a misunderstood individual.... HA!"

Hitler's golden elevator- the only way to gain access to the Eagles Nest.

One of 4 different angles, thought this one seemed "epic"