Presenting . . . .

Madison and the McCool Beginning Band . . . .

(now read that whole intro again using Grandpa Lang's "presenting" voice)

These 6th graders had their first concert just 3 1/2 months after first picking up their instuments. I'd say they sound dang good! Click below to have a listen.

Tonight's forecast . . . .

0% probability for snow

In fact our walk tonight was so sticky, Molly barely made it up the street.

(right now the computer reads 80 degrees at 11pm)

Sending warm thoughts your way.

It's Christmas Eve on Guam . . .

. . . .and all over this isle.

But us Langs - we're a bit homesick from across all these miles.

Together is where we'd most like to be -with family and friends across the vast sea.

So what can we do that's almost as good? Let you visit from your home to our neighborhood!

We've prepped for your visit stocking up at Cup and Saucer
The best cinnamon rolls the island has to offer.

We've prepped the house with Christmas decor.

It sort of adds spunk where it's normally bore!
Madi and Mickayla have baked tons of cookies
Meanwhile, David worries about paying his bookie. (watching the Cowboys stinkin it up)

*Sidebar: Molly totally looks like a Muppet! Look at those arms!

We've made you some cider - it's our family tradition.

Just steer clear of the crazy elf as you head towards the kitchen.

We'll ooh and aah at the tree and enjoy the warm glow

As we chat about how the Mainland's covered with snow.

What visit would be complete without a trip to the beach.

Never mind that it's dark - feel the sand on your feet.

It's time to wrap up our gathering. We wish you could stay.

Merry Christmas one last time from Guam, USA.

(o.k. - now I'm a bit teary. sniff.)

I can't believe it!

My baby is 12. My baby!

She's grown from "my shadow" into a lovely young lady.

Santa's working

Last night was the branch Christmas party.
Santa wasn't able to make an appearance due to unforeseen circumstances. An announcement was made that the jolly old soul was very busy working up at the North Pole.

This morning at church - our buddy Maddax told Dave "Santa's busy working at the pool".

Only on Guam!

My late night theory:

Don't you love how your mind works wonders when you're lying in bed trying to fall asleep? Putting that brain to work going over and over and over every single little thing.
Allow me to share my latest "late-night AHA". . . . .

I think the tao tao mona have internet access.

It seems that when I put something out there into cyberspace I get jinxed.

I chatted on FB about how I love the weather in December; 27W blows in a few days later.
I mention Molly chasing shrews outdoors; now I have my own indoor version

I haven't quite figured it all out though. I keep mentioning orders but NOTHING is happening!

Indulge me.

While Dad's Away - Take TWO!

It's not all fun and games when Dave's gone:

Quoting this morning's Marianas Variety:
"THE so-called “banana storm” that could have potentially brought another devastation to the island missed Guam last night, according to weather officials. Tropical depression 27W made its way past just south of Guam last night."

The prep for a coming storm wreaks havoc on my emotions.

Every time I stopped somewhere yesterday I was asked, "Are you ready?"

Honestly - I don't know.

In our 4 years here, we've been lucky enough to avoid anything that I would consider "big".

I have seen pictures of devastating storms in the past - and I know I don't want to experience the aftermath of one of those. (knock on wood)

It's more of the hassle of securing the yard that I don't care for too much.

I honestly don't think Dave has ever been around for this fun exercise.

And wouldn't you know - in the midst of all this weather hoopla Molly had unexpected surgery.

While Dad's away . . .

Molly still plays (at 11pm).

We bake all day.
And we're keeping the frogs at bay.
Even the grandpa ones almost as big as Molly!

And lo . . .

The LouHoo!

Still in tact even after a good round of shrew chasing.

example of a stinky musk shrew (or more commonly known as the house shrew):

These guys are stinky, sqeaky loud little buggers that roam our neighborhood and houses like they own the place!

And they leave the most nasty presents EVERYWHERE!

'Tis the season . . . .

The season is right.

The air around here is suffused with achievement, satisfaction, relief, gratitude, and justified pride. December couldn't have been a more appropriate time for David to pin on LCDR (that's Lieutenant Commander for you non military folk)

David has come a long way in his accomplishments. His style is a mixture of experience and ambitious, youthful energy (of course that energy comes from his scavenging treats from everyone.)
(O.k. - and his KISS mug).

I thought one of the nicest compliments of the day came from Capt. Holdridge,

"You got here because of who you are. Don't change."

With the help of Steve Clifford (a fellow promotee) - David realized his promotion date was December 1st. It was a heluva day around here after that realization. We had been planning this pomp and circumstance for Jan 2nd - not December!

It's a pleasant oops - just a lot of prep.

I'm humbled by David's ladies - they pulled all their contacts and resources to put out a wonderful spread for 0730 (that's 7:30 AM). We had lumpia, empanadas, pancit, mini sands, breads and bagels! I am going to miss them more than I miss Costco (and that's A LOT!)

If we can throw together a promotion fiesta with 19 hours notice - I have faith you'll survive your week too!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

I can't believe this will be our 4th Christmas in the tropics.

Ahhh - I remember how ridiculous all the evergreen looked on the island our first year. It really bothered me how pointedly fake it all looked amongst the rest of the tropical flora and fauna.

Now - we just go with the flow.
(And ooh/ahh a bit over the tiny gecko eggs that filled the ornament box this year!)

On Friday - David mentioned this is the first year he can remember on Guam feeling the anticipation of "Holiday Spirit"

And I don't think it's because we have an ample supply of imported Stephen's cocoa!

Instead of looking forward to Temple Square - it's Skinner Plaza.

(photo courtesy of PDN)

In lieu of ice skating at Gallivan Center - it's GPO.

(never mind that you could literally miss it if you sneeze while walking by)

There's a lot to be said about the magnitude of traditions.

Tuesday's distraction

Having the old airstrip behind our house is a novelty that never gets old.

In addition to making a perfect foreground for nightly sunsets

It serves as a great biking trail, WWII exploration, running track, and evening doggy walk.

It's also used as an active helo pad for this end of the island.

(photo: summer 2006 - Amanda's visit)

We've grown accustomed to hearing the helicopters come and go - but yesterday's EOD exercise was exceptionally interesting.

To watch these guys come and go was fascinating!

Kind of makes parasailing pale in comparison, doesn't it.

Nature or Nurture?

Molly thinks she's a bunn!

Why?

Sleep was considered pretty much sacred in my household growing up. Naps were a necessary part of life and my family understood and respected that.
Even now when I go "home" - I can always count on a long uninterrupted nap on my mom's bed.
So why is it that I can't get that same quality nap with my own family?

I tell the fam, "I'm deliriously sick. I have to take a nap."
David responds with his cavalier, "You go ahead hon. I'll take care of everything out here."

Just as I finally drift off (after trying to tune out David's constant ringing of the work phone) I hear:

"Mom, I'm not waking you up - but I have a Mesopotamian project that's due in the morning."

10 minutes later:
"Mom" (in a not so whisperish whisper), "what's for dinner? (note: this was at 1 in the afternoon) I'm not hungry now - just wondering . . . ."

7 minutes later:
Molly whining at the door wanting to come in.
Still whining combined with pawing.
Whining until someone finally opens it and lets her in.

3 minutes later:
"Mom - can you make me some pizza rolls since dinner's not for another 3 hours and 22 minutes?" (giving up on that whisperish whisper completely)

I give up. It's more work to try and get a nap than it's really worth.
I figured David must have gone in to the hospital so I may as well take care of things.
Nope - he was cozy as can be on the couch in front of the t.v. - asleep with the remote in hand.

Why is it that the fam doesn't think to ever bug dad!

Completely useless information

Molly is up to 3 pounds . . . .

Guam has the absolute largest snails on the planet.!

David brought me flowers the other day.
He wanted "something different".
The ants were included free of charge . . . .

And we still don't have orders!

Living on this tiny island . . .

Living on this tiny island sometimes means going without:

*Target

*Presidential election voting

*Taco shells at Taco Bell (Rebecca Brown's OOG moment)

*shiny metal surfaces

But living on this tiny island gave us the opportunity to meet Anna Kournikova!

And we got Madi's tennis racket signed.

















How's that for an afternoon assembly. . . . .
Thanks USO!

Tagged (A.K.A. It's all so random)

In true multi tasking fashion - I'm combining those who tagged me (Tara, Brandi, Amy) into one post:

1. I hate it when David falls asleep before me.
I have envied it almost every night for the past 15 years - and I'm not anticipating the next 15 years to be any different. He can fall asleep as soon as his head hits the pillow (or the airplane headrest, the couch, etc.)

2. I missed out on Saturday morning cartoons growing up. But I don't feel bad . . . .
I was in a children's performing/singing group and practice was held every Saturday from 7-10 am. I loved it!

3. My little sister and I would spend countless hours filming cooking shows, newscasts, whatever. Having a video camera was such a novelty back then (not to mention a bit cumbersome)

4. Vacuuming and ironing are both very therapeutic for me. Such an immediate sense of accomplishment! It also serves as endless fodder for my sisters to tease me.

5. To this day - I really don't like playing the violin. Or the thought of school orchestra (shudder!)

6. I love to play Nertz! A sweet friend taught us how to play it when we were evacuated from our house during the horrible San Diego wildfires in the fall of '03. It's been a family favorite ever since. There is not one bad feeling or thought that is associated with that game. Just fun.

7. When I take a nap I can't force myself to climb all the way into bed. I can sleep ON the bed with a blanket. But the sheets - strictly a nighttime indulgence. No matter how much it kills my family. hahaha

To keep the game (meme) going, I tag Sidney, Heidi, and Sam.

A few tricks and treats

In the spirit of Halloween, I thought I'd share a few tricks and treats from the Navylang life.

Treat: We had a couple of different trunk or treats over the weekend. We decorated the trunk on Friday and just left everything in place for Saturday. Garrett had a blast helping Maddax - I mean Bob the Builder gather candy.

Trick: We forgot our candy for Saturday's branch party. So we teamed up with the Lallatin family who had candy - but no trunk decor.

Dave wore his nasty Kiss shirt and actually played devil music from his ipod. Go figure.

It's always a treat when we catch a glimpse of these guys training and entertaining us with their tricks.

(parachutes after being dropped from the helicopter)

Treat: Molly Coconubs has been a hoot to have around. Being a dog living in the tropics - we just had to introduce her to swimwear and of course the jet-ski. But in true island style - she prefers being clothing free.

Trick: Being a very allergic household, we were so excited to find a Maltese because of their allergen free hair. It doesn't help us too much however since Madi is allergic to her saliva. We're giving it another week - trying a new allergen fighting cocktail. Of course we get more attached day by day - it's very tricky territory!

Introducing . . . .

Molly Coconut Nubs (buns spelled backwards)
* In true Guam style -name subject to change.

This is what I'll miss

Bunny time in the back yard after dinner.

Tonight's sunset was beautiful!

Warm thoughts . . . . .

We were thinking of Utah's first snow as we collected shells for Christmas ornaments.

Befuddled

Our normally mundane household has been dealing with drama the past few days.

School has caused a bit of a hassle lately. Something to do with backpacks leading to breakdowns.

And then Dave's employer threw us for a loop. After the "Fellowship Congratulations" - we found out we will only be in Hawaii For a year. One. (1)

We're 'penciled in' for Northern Command in Colorado Springs as our follow on.

Our options included Colorado, Nebraska, Pentagon, Belgium (but not really - we were told we've been overseas too much)

We ALL decided Colorado was the best option. (o.k., I'm still in the 'sort of' stage)
3 year orders means Garrett could have all but his freshman year in the same high school.
It also means Madi will move for her Jr and Sr. years. Pathetic!

This morning I sent out a very brief update to our own 'key and essential personnel' explaining the latest . . . .
I now give you a sampling of responses to that email:

April said: does this mean after one year in hawaii you are going to alaska to live?

huh?

Sidney said: So, does this mean you will only be Hawaii one year? If so, you'd better start an online calendar so everyone can schedule their visits! Steve & I are coming together - along with Lexi

Great! You can stay in the hotel room next to ours.

Esther wrote: ALOHA! Are you so excited? I can’t believe you are actually moving to Hawaii! Just a bigger version of what you are used to right? Are your kids happy about it? When is the big move? My kids were very excited about it

I don't even have the energy left to respond to that one.

Misse: Colorado. I am pretty sure you can get fresh produce there and there is probably a Target! Yeah!
Plus it's way easy to DRAW Colorado! Bonus!

Go go Colorado! Cheer with me now! Go go Colorado! At least it's not North Dakota... Go go Colorado.. You've got it now!

I am going to go practice doing straddle jumps and back flips to go with my Colorado cheer! You do the same!!!

That one actually helped. I needed the visual!

Last but not least. . . . Madison exclaimed, "Great! Now I'll have to use the high altitude directions on the back of the box."

Go UTES!

Have you seen the lastest issue of Continuum Magazine?

Click here and scroll down to the 90's.

Island Hopping

It's begun.

I know where we're moving to.

The move won't physically happen until school is out.

However - the mental exodus is creeping in.

Aloha!

Click here to learn more.

Wonder

I was helping Madison with math homework (I really dislike math homework)

As I walked back to my spot in the kitchen (making Cafe Rio salad for dinner) I heard Madison murmur to herself,

"oh MAN! When you look at it that way you're really old!"

I had to do the awkward over the shoulder glance at my own behind.

"My BACKSIDE looks old?!?!" I questioned.

"NO! When you do the math - you were my age 27 years ago."

"You were learning this math 27 years ago. No wonder!"

Crap! Now I'm wondering . . . .

SYTYMG

(So You Think You Miss Guam)

I thought I would serve up a little reality check . . . .

• Gas went up .18 cents. Overnight. On base!

• It's the rainy season.

And the lightening season.

And of course the thunder season.

• We got cold . . . . . OUTSIDE!

• So many millipedes . . . .Everywhere!

• Still no guaranteed ice cream at McDonald's.

• Still coping with cliques!

• The new BX opened up at Anderson. We haven't seen it.

a) I don't want to pack a lunch for the drive up there.

b) Why drive up there if nothing will be in stock. (come on - you KNOW I'm speaking the truth)

• We were up close and personal with the dolphins over the weekend. The babies put on a jumping/spinning show for us while we watched from the comfort of the new tube/jet ski.

Just Becousin

Hot Cross Bunns

It's only fitting

That Madison got her clarinet for 6th grade band

on Tyler's birthday (her uncle).Because "You know . . . . he plays 5 instruments"