tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56706387946165487362024-02-18T21:43:27.493-06:00The Good TimesZach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.comBlogger140125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-16657927191648688182012-08-14T23:53:00.000-05:002012-08-14T23:53:21.927-05:00To Mac...love, Dad.<div>
I can't even begin to explain how much I love being a dad. Mac has completely changed our lives and our little family means everything to me. Everyone loves Mac...he just brings joy and a smile to everyone he comes across. I'm proud and lucky to be his dad. This little project was whipped up for the new blog Chrissy and I are starting at: <a href="http://www.love-momanddad.blogspot.com/">http://www.love-momanddad.blogspot.com/</a></div>
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Good times.Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-37331370733331207992012-07-26T23:18:00.000-05:002012-07-26T23:18:32.020-05:00Rangers vs. Mariners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While we've been up here in WA we've been to a few baseball games at Safeco Field. We've seen the Texas Rangers up here twice, unfortunately they lost both games...but it was still really fun to go to the ballpark, eat ballpark food and enjoy the atmosphere.</div>
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Josh Hamilton shootin the breeze with some fans pregame.</div>
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Momma and her buddy at the ol ballgame. We were bummed that we couldn't find Chrissy's Kinsler shirt.</div>
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Ian Kinsler, one of our faves...at bat...obviously I took this one...still working on that whole lighting concept.</div>
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We were excited to see Yu Darvish on the mound, but he got worked.</div>
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We parked by Mac's Smokehouse BBQ and Diner, so we had to get a picture! Good times, we're gonna miss WA.</div>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-13554945786557500022012-07-10T16:30:00.001-05:002012-07-10T16:30:21.815-05:00Buddy got some shadesSo we got Mac some sunglasses to wear for fun outdoor activities. We thought maybe he'd tug at them and try to pull them off, but he just chills with 'em like lil buddy cool. I love that Chrissy can get awesome pics of memorable moments like this at Lake Crescent. Good times.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/10/2959.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/10/s_2959.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/10/2961.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/10/s_2961.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/10/2963.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/10/s_2963.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-50864879401191324722012-05-21T10:22:00.001-05:002012-05-21T10:22:39.647-05:00A few things that make me happy...Thought this was funny...but seriously what a game. It really epitomized our mantra of "keep pounding on that rock."<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/21/1267.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/21/s_1267.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='259' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Timmy is healthy and playing some inspired ball. Hopefully that continues, I just love watching the fellas play this kinda ball. (knock on wood)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/21/1268.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/21/s_1268.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Do I really even have to say anything about these two? I'm the luckiest man alive.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/21/1269.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/21/s_1269.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Good times y'all.<br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=DuPont,%20WA&z=10'>DuPont, WA</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-49090550879171967112012-05-19T09:49:00.001-05:002012-05-19T09:49:35.442-05:00Mountain BikingFor some time I've wanted to get into mountain biking. I just never seemed to pull the trigger on getting one. I loved riding my bike around all the fun trails as a boy in Washington. (and Texas) So when I kept finding all these neat trails here, I decided now was the time. So happy birthday/father's day to me! I bought a bike...a Trek 3700. It seems pretty nice, and I'm pretty excited about my new hobby. The other day I took it out for a test run on a trail that I found. It was pretty much ridiculous. It was along this high overlook of the Puget Sound, through the woods...and eventually leading to the old site of the Wilkes Observatory. Wilkes was a Naval officer and explorer back in the day. I sat there looking out over the water, and the mountains and just thought to myself how awesome it was. I looked over to my left and there was a dadgum rabbit not five feet away, just looking at me and nibbling on something. Then on the ride back I rode on a trail looking directly out towards Mt. Rainier off in the distance. I almost busted out singing "What a Wonderful World." Lookin forward to some good times. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/19/1455.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/19/s_1455.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/19/1456.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/19/s_1456.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/19/1457.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/19/s_1457.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/19/1458.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/19/s_1458.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/19/1459.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/19/s_1459.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/19/1460.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/19/s_1460.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=DuPont,%20WA&z=10'>DuPont, WA</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-8355272085481476062012-05-13T11:32:00.001-05:002012-05-13T11:32:12.446-05:00Mother's DayI have been so blessed to have an amazing mom who is a great friend and who has done so much for me. I've also been greatly blessed by my grandmothers and mother in law. Today I'm especially grateful for my dear Chrissy. Today is her first Mother's Day as an actual mom. It has been amazing for me to watch her embrace that role and be such a wonderful mommy to our lil Mac. I just love the lil fella so much...and it brings me great joy to know how blessed he is to have his momma. I'm comforted to know how loved he is, and what good hands he's in. She takes such great care of me and Buddy. I'm excited to see her continue to grow and be a great mom. Good times.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/13/1854.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/13/s_1854.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-38969411327056139382012-05-06T23:12:00.001-05:002012-05-07T00:58:57.880-05:00Night Time StoriesLately I've begun reading Buddy stories before putting him in bed for the night. I absolutely love it. I'm looking forward to finding some cowboy books to read to him, but for now he's enjoying Llama Llama Nighty Night, and Daddy Kisses. After reading I lay him down in his crib and then sing "Blue Shadows" to him. (from Three Amigos) He always gives me a grin when I start singing. These are moments I will cherish forever. Such good times.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/06/4631.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/06/s_4631.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/05/06/4632.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/05/06/s_4632.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=DuPont,%20WA&z=10'>DuPont, WA</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-49979425595567697672012-04-07T11:57:00.001-05:002012-04-07T11:57:29.345-05:00Me and my buddyLately Saturday mornings have been prime time for Chrissy to do photoshoots...so it leaves me with a little father and son time. I love feeding lil Mac his bottle and laying with him in bed watching sportscenter or the golf channel. Being the lil fella's dad is so much fun! I seriously love it. I can't wait to make so many fun memories with Mac and his momma. Indeed good times y'all.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/04/07/2000.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/04/07/s_2000.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Antonio,%20TX&z=10'>San Antonio, TX</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-17412416869827813932012-03-13T12:27:00.001-05:002012-03-13T12:27:18.452-05:00Daylight savings...I didn't care for the time change.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/03/13/1356.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/03/13/s_1356.jpg' border='0' width='195' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Middle%20Earth&z=10'>Middle Earth</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-91298669457369827502012-03-11T12:40:00.001-05:002012-03-11T12:40:29.067-05:00The greatest joy....I absolutely love being a dad! I can't even begin to express how much I love my lil boy Mac. I have been blessed to experience a lot of joy thus far in my life...but nothing brings me greater joy than my family relationships, especially being a husband and a father. I am so excited for all the memories our lil family will make, and all the fun things I'm gonna do with my lil buddy. Seriously good times.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/03/11/1731.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/03/11/s_1731.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Antonio,%20TX&z=10'>San Antonio, TX</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-28799695548917854972012-01-14T12:54:00.001-06:002012-01-14T12:54:03.028-06:00Go NinersI can't even express how stoked I am for the Niners NFC Divisional game today at the Stick. The last time the Niners were in the playoffs was in 2002. It has been a rough go for us Niner fans since then. I've believed in every new coach and high draft pick. But they just haven't played out. Their 13-3 season this year has been a great pick me up since my Texas Longhorns have been sub-par. Win or lose today, I'm behind my Niners 100%, and decking out my lil fam and enjoying the game with them are already a dream come true. Good times, and go Niners!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/14/1648.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/14/s_1648.jpg' border='0' width='188' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/14/1649.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/14/s_1649.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-63090462077720444562011-12-19T16:02:00.001-06:002011-12-19T16:02:22.241-06:00A proud momentMichael Jordan was my favorite athlete of my childhood...I loved watching him play ball...and I still remember the Christmas when I got my first pair of Air Jordans. I haven't stopped collecting them and all other sorts of Jordan gear since. So when I found out we were having a lil boy, I was so stoked to get him some Jordan gear. No J's on him yet...but I did get Mac a little onesie, beanie, and some socks. It's too big right now, but I couldn't resist putting the lil beanie on Mac today...I love it! Good times.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/19/2028.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/19/s_2028.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Antonio,%20TX&z=10'>San Antonio, TX</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-49058197401645270122011-11-23T23:30:00.001-06:002011-11-23T23:30:46.261-06:00McCoy Zachary OliversonOur little man is here. 7.2 lbs and 19 in. Such a whirlwind of a day. I'm so glad to finally meet him. He's a chill lil guy with quite an appetite. Happy Thanksgiving y'all. Good times.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/23/3184.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/23/s_3184.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/23/3185.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/23/s_3185.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Antonio,%20TX&z=10'>San Antonio, TX</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-32274640253041088502011-11-20T17:40:00.001-06:002011-11-20T17:40:46.230-06:00San Francisco 49ersI have been a loyal Niners fan my entire life. As a youngster this brought some great times...as my fanmanship of football matured with age, rough times hit the Niners. With every new coach, I've hoped the Niners would turn it around, yet it never happened. Coach Jim Harbaugh once again brought a renewed sense of hope, and thus far...at 8-1, we may have found the answer. Knock on wood, go Niners, and good times.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2560.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2560.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />PS: Still no word on the world's newest lil Niners fan, stay tuned.<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-41405860513645951612011-10-30T20:36:00.001-05:002011-10-30T20:36:32.829-05:00The weekendWell I already appreciated weekends a great deal, but being in training here will make those ones that are free, extremely valuable. This weekend was good...I got to spend a lot of time with Chrissy, which is my favorite thing to do. On Saturday we went to see the Blue Angels at the air show at Randolph AFB, then we had Rudy's BBQ for dinner. Then today we spent the day relaxing at the Freeman's and enjoying a tasty lasagna dinner. We put the stroller together, just one step closer to being ready for the lil fella. Then Chrissy napped while I watched the Niners win to go 6-1...the weekend was capped off by an iChat with the fam. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/30/3717.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/30/s_3717.jpg' border='0' width='186' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />(thanks for taking a pic momma freeman) Good times.<br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-24113368820549758722011-10-10T21:05:00.001-05:002011-10-10T21:05:43.220-05:00My WorldI had some free time this weekend, which led me to do some reminiscing. I thought back on how Chrissy and I came to be. It was fun to think back on then, and realize where we're at now...and where we are headed.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/10/4206.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/10/s_4206.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='208' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This was a group blind date night organized by a mutual friend. Chrissy came right up to me and tied our hands together for this obstacle deal...when a cute girl does something like that, a dude obliges...and a seed was planted.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/10/4207.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/10/s_4207.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='194' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A while later we went with a group to go hiking at Lost Maples. Honestly, we hardly talked that day, and you can see we're on opposite sides of this picture, but I knew I had a lil thing for her the whole time. On the way home we stopped at Cider Mill Cafe and ate some delicious burgers. Sitting there at the picnic table, I had this moment...where I just looked over at Chrissy and thought to myself..."man she's beautiful." I also had this interesting desire to take care of her...you see, she didn't have the cash to get good bev with her burgs, and I could see she was disappointed with the water...these burgs clearly deserve more than that. I dropped the ball that day and didn't get her that drink. Yet here we are today, a few years later and we're married and expecting a lil dude to come along. There is nobody in the world I'd rather be on this adventure with. I don't know firsthand about the sacrifices of pregnancy...but I can see that it is indeed quite the sacrifice. I appreciate so much what she's doing for me and the little fella. I love you darlin, and I will always make sure you have good bev with your burgs. Good times.<br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Texas&z=10'>Texas</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-64846344707415643602011-10-01T23:27:00.001-05:002011-10-01T23:27:38.296-05:00T-I-M-EI really enjoyed conference today. Chrissy, Mom, Angie, and Charlie all came over to the Colonel's office to watch it on the computer. Dad's in the office every Saturday, so it was nice to have a place we could go...since I'm not allowed to leave post. I liked a quote in particular, about how love was really spelled t-i-m-e. This past week here at Ft. Sam hasn't exactly been easy, but my sweet wife Chrissy has been so loyal, loving, and true to me. It's such a blessing to be close to her. Being restricted to staying on post here, she pretty much has to do all the work if we wanna see each other. She willingly loads up the car with dinners, treats, my laundry, and other things that I need...and drives 20 miles here....only to be able to sit in the car together. She is not comfortable for long sitting like that....yet she shows up, day after day...and makes the end of my day something to really look forward to. I'm so grateful for her and all she does for me...and for us. I'm grateful for her sacrifices in carrying around our little man....Mac is a lucky lil dude, cause I know Chrissy's gonna be an amazing mom. I can't wait. Anyway, I just wanted to publicly express my gratitude and love for my sweet wife. She makes me understand what Heavenly Father's plan of happiness is really all about. I love you darlin. Truly this is good times.<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Ft.%20Sam%20Houston,%20TX&z=10'>Ft. Sam Houston, TX</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-38609833248151205162011-09-24T16:37:00.000-05:002011-09-24T16:37:16.318-05:00American Soldier<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZRprgasnvt9chgctrUBO-4bAHCQ8jPylPBkUTHfXcg4prMpH80Pcm9-MzL7z8unc3oq5_IccdSrOt9nD5Q1PPHDasSAeuY_pjYPRbmQqbCPn0oV1sOjSaejaoo6eM82CeTDbnFZe6lg/s1600/inthearmynow.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 232px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZRprgasnvt9chgctrUBO-4bAHCQ8jPylPBkUTHfXcg4prMpH80Pcm9-MzL7z8unc3oq5_IccdSrOt9nD5Q1PPHDasSAeuY_pjYPRbmQqbCPn0oV1sOjSaejaoo6eM82CeTDbnFZe6lg/s320/inthearmynow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614173644525711218" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqrnx16593wNo28mATYBTDCyKph48TfAh4qBQunkj4IKyHLdmnHRoBPijFm7RBSWW7fOaG0fHTZcLk1vtjz47TwhcmE4dmVA3Mwn15Lmc4U_W3OHatXcoLZK7cyE_SUixG442jAtoXkrQ/s1600/Zacho003.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqrnx16593wNo28mATYBTDCyKph48TfAh4qBQunkj4IKyHLdmnHRoBPijFm7RBSWW7fOaG0fHTZcLk1vtjz47TwhcmE4dmVA3Mwn15Lmc4U_W3OHatXcoLZK7cyE_SUixG442jAtoXkrQ/s320/Zacho003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656040413338569234" border="0" /></a>As you can see becoming a soldier is the fulfillment of a dream for me. I've always had a desire somewhere inside of me to be an "Army guy." It will be my honor and privilege to serve this country that I love, and to be called an American soldier.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHApVUFlwDypVd_GRC-vFPVCIjyPHU49V0YyYGnOmo2CAYoNGLPtGzFjt2jrKVIxA3LLRcYP_t1jqUOdnT25Pjf6BCtOl6SY5oKl1rxObZtKF8kbaJDiXNCoj6jHFK33eXfH04VM_ehmc/s1600/Zacho004.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHApVUFlwDypVd_GRC-vFPVCIjyPHU49V0YyYGnOmo2CAYoNGLPtGzFjt2jrKVIxA3LLRcYP_t1jqUOdnT25Pjf6BCtOl6SY5oKl1rxObZtKF8kbaJDiXNCoj6jHFK33eXfH04VM_ehmc/s320/Zacho004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656040410818459954" border="0" /></a>Me and my dad, the Colonel....one of my greatest heroes and examples...it's an honor to wear the same uniform that he has so dutifully worn for longer than I've even been alive.Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-20087885225237202962011-09-03T19:39:00.000-05:002011-09-03T19:41:40.112-05:00Life at HHCWell after completing BCT I <br />reported to OCS ready for the next step in my military training. We had about 170 people going for 79 active duty slots. They are very much overbooked and backlogged. So basically they have all the "holdovers" in a place called HHC. I missed the PT cutoff by 3 points...with my 273. Not gonna lie, I have worked pretty hard, and feel good about that score. (as I'm sure most soldiers would) So I've been stuck here in HHC for a few weeks. We basically get stuck with all the crappy duties...and we sit around in a hot room watching only CSPAN. It's pretty rough. But we do get phones and computers...and this weekend, we even get a pass! So I'm eating pizza and watching football today. Good times.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/03/4085.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/03/s_4085.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Ft.%20Benning,%20GA&z=10'>Ft. Benning, GA</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-70522699555826164522011-09-02T19:47:00.004-05:002011-09-02T19:56:48.024-05:00The most special of the fellasCame across this clip during my personal time at HHC OCS today. It was played after the Spurs won game 7 and the NBA championship in 2005. That is my favorite of the 4 ships. That team will always hold a special place in my heart. Goosebumps, watery eyes, and good times.
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<br />Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-79248419411750855842011-08-25T21:25:00.001-05:002011-08-25T21:35:54.614-05:00BCT Family Day<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/25/4065.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/25/s_4065.jpg' border='0' width='188' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Well let me just say that I don't wish basic combat training on anyone. It was tough being away from Chrissy and the fam, but I did do some cool stuff. Rappelled, shot a lot of weapons, rode in a Humvee...I'm glad it's over with though. It was awesome having Chrissy and the fam come out for graduation and family day. We had many nice meals courtesy of the Colonel...and many a tasty treats courtesy of Chrissy, Mom, and apparently Winnie. It was good times.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/25/4067.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/25/s_4067.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hangin out at the pond.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/08/25/4070.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/08/25/s_4070.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='188' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Chuckster made the trip as well.<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Ft.%20Jackson,%20SC&z=10'>Ft. Jackson, SC</a></p>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-57713303212828366662011-06-06T06:00:00.001-05:002011-06-06T06:00:12.113-05:00I've got an Angel......she doesn't wear any wings. She means everything to me. She really is a dream come true. I am one lucky dude to have her forever mine. Today is our two year anniversary. What a wonderful blessing Chrissy is in my life. She is perfect for me and I'm so thankful to have married her in the Temple and that we'll be together forever. I'm so excited to start a lil family with her and see what an amazing Mom she's gonna be. This morning I leave for Army basic training so I won't be around to celebrate our special day...but I just wanted to publicly profess my love for my sweet Chrissy. I love you darlin.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWfV1o5Ga51rovUgJ_Y13uYfe_703jI_hVL7V8qMOpynC7nRqpdnwh_H3Hvx0DPLB5fClp72GULhUIP6XKKMrOSqy_JkvLCE2vi_ZHuFv6Zjj30XQvbiFD0dMUaIYxtXdxc5xayr7D0Q/s1600/Wedding.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWfV1o5Ga51rovUgJ_Y13uYfe_703jI_hVL7V8qMOpynC7nRqpdnwh_H3Hvx0DPLB5fClp72GULhUIP6XKKMrOSqy_JkvLCE2vi_ZHuFv6Zjj30XQvbiFD0dMUaIYxtXdxc5xayr7D0Q/s320/Wedding.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614172584417659970" border="0" /></a><br /><br />good times.Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-80556954779157625232011-06-03T14:10:00.003-05:002011-06-03T14:50:13.570-05:00Meeting the fellas...A couple weeks ago I received a phone call from my lil sis Aubrie. She was so excited to tell me about lil Winnie's gymnastics class that day. It seems that one of the little dudes in her class had his dad bring him to class, and the dad happened to be the greatest power forward in the history of basketball. None other than my favorite athlete of all-time, Tim Duncan. That's right...Aubrie sat next to Timmy D! It has long been a dream of mine to meet Timmy. I've always wondered and thought about what I'd say to him. So this week, my final week in town before leaving for the Army...I went to Winnie's final gymnastics class. It was fun seeing Winnie do all her lil gymnastics stuff. Tension and excitement filled the air as the little kids stretched and began class. We all watched on and silently wondered if he'd show up. About five minutes in, I looked over and in walked in a 6'11" dude in some shades, adidas cutoff shirt and slides, and some urban camo swim trunks. My heart just about leapt out of my throat. It was Timmy!!! After class I approached him and he looked right at me and said, "hey what's goin on man?" Then some lady interuppted us...but at that point a dream had already come true. Timmy is really private and doesn't do pics, but luckily my dear lil sis came prepared with a little basketball and a sharpie...so I got his autograph and was on cloud nine all day.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUa5oDZeM2Zm64AubcP87Ve5P_15F5SeLIay_OWnvLnPL03HmKlht9D_qQ2PvWtJHfX92zp-qpASFaT-87J3U8eEbs8EMY8qotHZZH3ZMNfdYzV_DNm_GUaFaxVaKL8WV5r5JiCZJLTA/s1600/IMG_0096.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUa5oDZeM2Zm64AubcP87Ve5P_15F5SeLIay_OWnvLnPL03HmKlht9D_qQ2PvWtJHfX92zp-qpASFaT-87J3U8eEbs8EMY8qotHZZH3ZMNfdYzV_DNm_GUaFaxVaKL8WV5r5JiCZJLTA/s320/IMG_0096.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614080074864230242" border="0" /></a><br /><br />...and then, the next day Chrissy and I were running some errands with Momma Freeman. We were just entering the shops at La Cantera when Momma Freeman asked me to recount the whole experience of meeting Timmy D. I was about 15 seconds into telling her what happened when I looked up and David Robinson walked out of the Apple Store! I couldn't believe it! I walked right up and said, "Big Dave!" I thanked him for the championships and good times and he was very friendly shaking all our hands and talking to us. I told him that I'd met Tim Duncan the day before and he laughed and said it must be Spurs week for me. What a sweet send off from the fellas. What are the odds, that the last week before I ship out to Army training, and on consecutive days I meet the two pillars of the San Antonio Spurs franchise! It was so cool! I will cherish the memories forever. Good times.Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-77350623093146929912011-05-23T17:50:00.013-05:002011-05-25T15:58:29.347-05:004 wheeling at Bear LakeI fell in love with 4-wheelers on my Grandpa Nielsen's Suzuki Quad Runner...riding around the farm in Winder, ID. So I really wanted to make 4-wheeling a part of our recent vacation. Our initial rentals fell through and things were looking grim...then good ole Uncle Jerry made a few phone calls and lined up some rentals in Laketown, UT. It was a blast!!! I'm so buying one of these some day.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWILsl4Rs5rMxr9fP9xVPhJiOsrPM8coWPJCwlVAQzCepnPnDV3XUsNMVzM10UJJld5sCj0gl2XsNZBYhQU8O2whbzMZE3zVUMObgGoS3Rp3BsjuDdJyVsOE6pWo_k1Y3RiXvBYeEstfE/s1600/IMG_0053.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWILsl4Rs5rMxr9fP9xVPhJiOsrPM8coWPJCwlVAQzCepnPnDV3XUsNMVzM10UJJld5sCj0gl2XsNZBYhQU8O2whbzMZE3zVUMObgGoS3Rp3BsjuDdJyVsOE6pWo_k1Y3RiXvBYeEstfE/s320/IMG_0053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610048624115155826" border="0" /></a><br />This was crazy....a dadgum cattle drive across the road.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQcoE53DKv5jbJ-vAGEDlIqzPrUVBASlsgGBiAfViMrjuJT7TkacnaImNjGF2FRMExN5COcZEQDu7ZFTn70OfQzTZGTZPXdg669nETZ3YgSFcvlOx8xm4TT99qJF0Db4D0m0Qe99mXAE/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQcoE53DKv5jbJ-vAGEDlIqzPrUVBASlsgGBiAfViMrjuJT7TkacnaImNjGF2FRMExN5COcZEQDu7ZFTn70OfQzTZGTZPXdg669nETZ3YgSFcvlOx8xm4TT99qJF0Db4D0m0Qe99mXAE/s320/IMG_0058.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610048646119241906" border="0" /></a>We rode around on trails in the hills overlooking Bear Lake...I was seriously in heaven.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLY8uw9iU0AAXF5mJd-YbnDTmhxVYU7BKYqAcozJW8Muh0Rb02AHraAiLUcJPQ3dCmzRWh8_UQhI9Kf50DpyH_hXl18lGBWG88wFSrFE7WENY1T-hTMWn5GPEqPYSz_PKKUhS2g66icTI/s1600/IMG_0050.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLY8uw9iU0AAXF5mJd-YbnDTmhxVYU7BKYqAcozJW8Muh0Rb02AHraAiLUcJPQ3dCmzRWh8_UQhI9Kf50DpyH_hXl18lGBWG88wFSrFE7WENY1T-hTMWn5GPEqPYSz_PKKUhS2g66icTI/s320/IMG_0050.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610048617377843762" border="0" /></a>Chrissy's ready to roll out.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyzfYThgdCsdppTEM9cGTBQqgCIQHbbVlV8sdmIR67OeYSJtkpNx2TUWop9PbGvI9xr5laJJvoWEIkZCLPsJM7MhwTSw3cHFNplMpBFx_Sbgtt0Qv2wPCvBpZl0yvTvJ301tfjEkcxMU/s1600/IMG_0060.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyzfYThgdCsdppTEM9cGTBQqgCIQHbbVlV8sdmIR67OeYSJtkpNx2TUWop9PbGvI9xr5laJJvoWEIkZCLPsJM7MhwTSw3cHFNplMpBFx_Sbgtt0Qv2wPCvBpZl0yvTvJ301tfjEkcxMU/s320/IMG_0060.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610048664774315842" border="0" /></a> I was only stopped by one law enforcement official.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/24222885?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />Good times.Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670638794616548736.post-36381284690710401022011-04-17T11:09:00.016-05:002011-04-17T12:35:58.442-05:00Air Power Expo-NAS Ft. Worth JRB<div style="text-align: center;">I really like going to air shows...less for the crazy trick planes whippin around in the sky...and more for demonstrations of the air power that gives America air superiority in any fight she may get into. So the Air Power Expo at Naval Air Station Ft. Worth Joint Reserve Base seemed like the logical place for me to be yesterday. Especially after missing the Blue Angels last week. So Chrissy, Charlie, and I headed up to Ft. Worth...it was well worth it.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZLSC3aHEjbhEJtEq7vqlSLqhPdKawi4XofmMTT8gTd3sVWzS5EvW1iFhDLR6GrDXoTZRwL4_iSDr6mSpqUVv65dEGQCFmDbVthImL9GFF06ffsNtCdXszBDjULnJosUGVaFvBzWAhZ8/s1600/DSC_0126.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZLSC3aHEjbhEJtEq7vqlSLqhPdKawi4XofmMTT8gTd3sVWzS5EvW1iFhDLR6GrDXoTZRwL4_iSDr6mSpqUVv65dEGQCFmDbVthImL9GFF06ffsNtCdXszBDjULnJosUGVaFvBzWAhZ8/s320/DSC_0126.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596585976656797538" border="0" /></a>My favorite plane is the A-10 Thunderbolt II...aka the Warthog. They literally built the plane around that 30 mm gun in the front.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLS3B3ZCBSwKa5HgwacrAI3iUSav8WQn4j8mTjzprj1dt5Bm_yh884UdVXwDswDolOqrRGW511md2bOb8SRGgneb-MPF7MhaacDg7q8RoSj0x7C_f_XxA6rh7QWk46H09D62mQTG0qVY/s1600/DSC_0140.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLS3B3ZCBSwKa5HgwacrAI3iUSav8WQn4j8mTjzprj1dt5Bm_yh884UdVXwDswDolOqrRGW511md2bOb8SRGgneb-MPF7MhaacDg7q8RoSj0x7C_f_XxA6rh7QWk46H09D62mQTG0qVY/s320/DSC_0140.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596585987279174642" border="0" /></a>The famed Blue Angels. The U.S. Navy's flight demonstration team. I highly recommend that you see them if you get the chance. They'll be in San Antonio October 29-30 (I believe at Randolph AFB). Naval aviation holds a certain mystique in my heart...(thank you Top Gun)...and these guys are awesome to watch.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJO5S9TbyjExQQKyfLyMZj5hF339_cXEwoypD8jJuvGuBYwDWwvUVbYIIfUS1QBOGqTmAxxxHJoK-p-rraF98l8bxrfA_bxHxO2It9_psqAEcJGLxXq_MkMlQXRFYesYVH-aTOGjYTvI/s1600/DSC_0182.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJO5S9TbyjExQQKyfLyMZj5hF339_cXEwoypD8jJuvGuBYwDWwvUVbYIIfUS1QBOGqTmAxxxHJoK-p-rraF98l8bxrfA_bxHxO2It9_psqAEcJGLxXq_MkMlQXRFYesYVH-aTOGjYTvI/s320/DSC_0182.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596585991235098226" border="0" /></a>The paracommandos brought in the colors with a stirring rendition of the national anthem.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMddtPj-w0mu7MXk2F00fWXpz42_o4lmf8Op6pXW9iPwdWIIbreD9s0X-uUR17KYZD-n5svU1fvxqhhgZC6XxXiY7vSswTBxiWbxmNS7fs8BcvvKZVMI8lP4jyhUamJ1ymqGz_x0GqV8/s1600/DSC_0195.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMddtPj-w0mu7MXk2F00fWXpz42_o4lmf8Op6pXW9iPwdWIIbreD9s0X-uUR17KYZD-n5svU1fvxqhhgZC6XxXiY7vSswTBxiWbxmNS7fs8BcvvKZVMI8lP4jyhUamJ1ymqGz_x0GqV8/s320/DSC_0195.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586000300618290" border="0" /></a>The VFA-204 River Rattlers finished off the national anthem with a fly over in their F/A-18s. (that middle one is actually an F-5 in case you were wondering)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_qzS8dRtnXR0J70r2KdM48kU4Mvolob_ClhvqyUioyAF9lFCcKi6Fdyk3wN6KMaM-Wj2NBmGeON5u0prBH44wOSzupneHD86_YxIdLZOMqEjFYuEFGGV1p8JZGeevG-8PQ9zcujwqZQ/s1600/DSC_0211.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_qzS8dRtnXR0J70r2KdM48kU4Mvolob_ClhvqyUioyAF9lFCcKi6Fdyk3wN6KMaM-Wj2NBmGeON5u0prBH44wOSzupneHD86_YxIdLZOMqEjFYuEFGGV1p8JZGeevG-8PQ9zcujwqZQ/s320/DSC_0211.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586008362316498" border="0" /></a>I have never seen a Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier in person. It was awesome. They demonstrated its vertical take off and landing capability. It can literally just hover in the air, and spin around, then really blast its engines and take off whippin around like a fighter jet. Chrissy's favorite demonstration of the day.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxdyYDtOC79kn043l60KinviLvdrmZ5sRIcqu0Cf9GBExwO0nOefwQzglBNLYHZIy2W_xbHAa5M_9iosikutwUp6G944Q6sjwfaPo7v5fhIOplrt4OZ86J5WEgFN_xlQXYz-d6j0KkhI/s1600/DSC_0226.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxdyYDtOC79kn043l60KinviLvdrmZ5sRIcqu0Cf9GBExwO0nOefwQzglBNLYHZIy2W_xbHAa5M_9iosikutwUp6G944Q6sjwfaPo7v5fhIOplrt4OZ86J5WEgFN_xlQXYz-d6j0KkhI/s320/DSC_0226.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586560790841490" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftKc7PsSbFDjbu0b96ffpjU5Tqm54bhDNwqpmMCKnHVSGXHo9B60tY-Q41QizJDhrwEBbJG4jrdwO-wLx6WgDKm26hzh_ADXE15mu3E6pSqr_hKbwmeEYOhS6dBq86avG0RP9J_RL8lo/s1600/DSC_0241.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftKc7PsSbFDjbu0b96ffpjU5Tqm54bhDNwqpmMCKnHVSGXHo9B60tY-Q41QizJDhrwEBbJG4jrdwO-wLx6WgDKm26hzh_ADXE15mu3E6pSqr_hKbwmeEYOhS6dBq86avG0RP9J_RL8lo/s320/DSC_0241.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586567154457186" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8-qKGIW7hy3YuGxeOzrBOOPHTZutiMroprcJAnuFn51itmQHFwFpdh4weKrhDCpwfYesaxHNik6DfgBYedMvNlgcbV5vk5Ot726yT8Wnezw8udvRuWocgRSYpmuRf0mBoAveCCsFkXw/s1600/DSC_0257.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8-qKGIW7hy3YuGxeOzrBOOPHTZutiMroprcJAnuFn51itmQHFwFpdh4weKrhDCpwfYesaxHNik6DfgBYedMvNlgcbV5vk5Ot726yT8Wnezw8udvRuWocgRSYpmuRf0mBoAveCCsFkXw/s320/DSC_0257.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586573582713986" border="0" /></a>A big reason we went was to see the A-10 demonstration team. I love this plane, and I love how it swoops around in the sky, and then wreaks havoc on the enemy...providing close air support for our troops on the ground. I hope these guys watch over FOB Bostick from the skies over Afghanistan.<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyVhgChoqiXA4U2z_k9w5vQ7pz98EAvGct7fU1icWj84jZyf6PCAGkxZc7bMYZCJCH_DjXmxwnI7UnHyQFu89FXJN10d85mS_2GmRnR8GSkDeSt2x5iaGgWNkMXGis9xabaJyfqYRL_Y/s1600/DSC_0262.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyVhgChoqiXA4U2z_k9w5vQ7pz98EAvGct7fU1icWj84jZyf6PCAGkxZc7bMYZCJCH_DjXmxwnI7UnHyQFu89FXJN10d85mS_2GmRnR8GSkDeSt2x5iaGgWNkMXGis9xabaJyfqYRL_Y/s320/DSC_0262.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586577350410930" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RkoTvQCKEUZsFtKUepWLO1wIz3DrAYB21i9XxeggZKokRb-clzE9qjduNQKr0caeg2gDRO9IfmytFi5cTS5a2aRxJm3zBcHxr9LdhQFDbn1bQtXjtLs9wVt_u_JY6rZ2l7yFsaP7w18/s1600/DSC_0264.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RkoTvQCKEUZsFtKUepWLO1wIz3DrAYB21i9XxeggZKokRb-clzE9qjduNQKr0caeg2gDRO9IfmytFi5cTS5a2aRxJm3zBcHxr9LdhQFDbn1bQtXjtLs9wVt_u_JY6rZ2l7yFsaP7w18/s320/DSC_0264.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587084007361234" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8-qKGIW7hy3YuGxeOzrBOOPHTZutiMroprcJAnuFn51itmQHFwFpdh4weKrhDCpwfYesaxHNik6DfgBYedMvNlgcbV5vk5Ot726yT8Wnezw8udvRuWocgRSYpmuRf0mBoAveCCsFkXw/s1600/DSC_0257.jpg"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUS9ssp2lcRwWhYfb3yFMDNl1iDuTccH4oPxt6_JGA4Swg_3C3hTFZyfAvExvX5qKeRjyWkvvepg9X8OWd-xLvTj04ABQtVmJN9klZlbKGqhevPrd0xwZaMYxdbVSO7gfoa0esG6JHktE/s1600/DSC_0318.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUS9ssp2lcRwWhYfb3yFMDNl1iDuTccH4oPxt6_JGA4Swg_3C3hTFZyfAvExvX5qKeRjyWkvvepg9X8OWd-xLvTj04ABQtVmJN9klZlbKGqhevPrd0xwZaMYxdbVSO7gfoa0esG6JHktE/s320/DSC_0318.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587090475315762" border="0" /></a>The heritage flight of the P-51 Mustang and the A-10 Thunderbolt II.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJcEHn3w_HFM-_FmGuE6cDf_lXqHyNvB9MLRchCP7mvhjO4SpRmXW7AVduhnbLUuKrqYk8DnXycCrHbeVh5YIPelDXKa8ZQIz6CJYxyLGYc2R94X9Z-usP6duwOh0SlamiPW6JI_JME_w/s1600/DSC_0245.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJcEHn3w_HFM-_FmGuE6cDf_lXqHyNvB9MLRchCP7mvhjO4SpRmXW7AVduhnbLUuKrqYk8DnXycCrHbeVh5YIPelDXKa8ZQIz6CJYxyLGYc2R94X9Z-usP6duwOh0SlamiPW6JI_JME_w/s320/DSC_0245.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596586571423440466" border="0" /></a>We were treated to a fly over by a USAF B-52 Stratofortress. These bombers have been in service for almost 60 years!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBz68VCA8OiRCfOZY35mt1XiRrdzT1X8SifSI9L7rln6Wmax5JkblFnxPb6o5Mmbwk9brwmDb24AK4cW561TV-cMRimP4UVYkfhjrZEl2W-yga7cmvz6fisfaxRZCDp_uSu4N2-h5lerM/s1600/DSC_0355.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBz68VCA8OiRCfOZY35mt1XiRrdzT1X8SifSI9L7rln6Wmax5JkblFnxPb6o5Mmbwk9brwmDb24AK4cW561TV-cMRimP4UVYkfhjrZEl2W-yga7cmvz6fisfaxRZCDp_uSu4N2-h5lerM/s320/DSC_0355.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587094178581522" border="0" /></a>Threat eliminated.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CWed6Y-8AkL8bOqQUirDzS26IAiRmncoSDoNLviGe7KHzsrO4Wac6rDaZLKywL_9_cBr5bc5AgzYE4h9uxmQSQv_B6dgArHbLwVa-npzcvdG5n1B0CnF1NQaSJRDDVfoPFP_rpFST08/s1600/DSC_0393.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CWed6Y-8AkL8bOqQUirDzS26IAiRmncoSDoNLviGe7KHzsrO4Wac6rDaZLKywL_9_cBr5bc5AgzYE4h9uxmQSQv_B6dgArHbLwVa-npzcvdG5n1B0CnF1NQaSJRDDVfoPFP_rpFST08/s320/DSC_0393.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587099659219202" border="0" /></a>The Blue Angels demonstration begins with a USMC C-130T Hercules...aka Fat Albert.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeoAJOZWBX6QIZZ_K1Ej_Kpwp7TxQAl0vNVJx10CsgtFO-VVQjlXpvuDRG3nQ62kxyT2gXgVELNeBx9SzzJmuhlnub1slUVb5jakyxQ_mUTCuBA5RomhA1TaNcu57Myg0j75ksLUlopA/s1600/DSC_0414.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeoAJOZWBX6QIZZ_K1Ej_Kpwp7TxQAl0vNVJx10CsgtFO-VVQjlXpvuDRG3nQ62kxyT2gXgVELNeBx9SzzJmuhlnub1slUVb5jakyxQ_mUTCuBA5RomhA1TaNcu57Myg0j75ksLUlopA/s320/DSC_0414.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587101966801810" border="0" /></a>Usually the Blue Angels have four F/A-18s flying in a diamond formation, and #5 and #6 birds provide the solo and opposing demonstrations. For some reason, they towed #4 away in the morning and flew without her.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVD8A4SEEXDNi1b-LHK12ENUAF3V3kgpjVuQyIw1Py-NJEZW0QZ3gMLKYj0fXs6_xwpN2_JDFenGMFujnJBR-UJZBVJexuTJIgnxNd9f8AF-UVea3gGBFn63sVzN5BKDEouIswezGQ6Y/s1600/DSC_0424.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVD8A4SEEXDNi1b-LHK12ENUAF3V3kgpjVuQyIw1Py-NJEZW0QZ3gMLKYj0fXs6_xwpN2_JDFenGMFujnJBR-UJZBVJexuTJIgnxNd9f8AF-UVea3gGBFn63sVzN5BKDEouIswezGQ6Y/s320/DSC_0424.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587221334394290" border="0" /></a>#5 Lt Ben Walborn flies inverted crossing paths with #6 Lt C.J. Simonsen. You'll notice the landing gear is down and the tail hooks are out. Those hooks grab on to a wire on the landing surface of an aircraft carrier to land the aircraft and prevent the plane from going into the drink.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpq6NqRgGM461ENc4q2uCC68-L_Ia4LzgN-imMHiJwsK7_Lni3YgbhN-0C0GiZspkz_01sh0YsTzUPiO2N36GfxIm9hIPOV3yzdaehw1Z6aAIDOBjjnHZ6A0SC8IDCiPa95uWkm0J-zg/s1600/DSC_0440.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpq6NqRgGM461ENc4q2uCC68-L_Ia4LzgN-imMHiJwsK7_Lni3YgbhN-0C0GiZspkz_01sh0YsTzUPiO2N36GfxIm9hIPOV3yzdaehw1Z6aAIDOBjjnHZ6A0SC8IDCiPa95uWkm0J-zg/s320/DSC_0440.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587226214479426" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvkc7G-uSvGjL__ZDEGJzJAKxogz1I6cXfTqHfniY2r8DhsZ6xozImqICq5oneaQiUxSoFBQetA8wMQstZnq5gHm0e8osjKwxd51sZidQJjOFuDFTmwI8J90vBghA5hz3P1Z0AQSwTyM/s1600/DSC_0379.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvkc7G-uSvGjL__ZDEGJzJAKxogz1I6cXfTqHfniY2r8DhsZ6xozImqICq5oneaQiUxSoFBQetA8wMQstZnq5gHm0e8osjKwxd51sZidQJjOFuDFTmwI8J90vBghA5hz3P1Z0AQSwTyM/s320/DSC_0379.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596607239503446786" border="0" /></a>Everything the Blue Angels do is done with exact, military precision. From the way the maintenance crews prepare the aircraft for flight in unison, to the way #8 reads the narration to #7, who then delivers it to the crowd...all while standing at attention. It really is spectacular to watch.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlI-PXYl_9W-YsJRZu1USnK0RfjWPAgb4qhy7fZdhBJ-nx3Hyy0da8968hADrcxNSbzwW6vZ-MkxSC7LQJNscV0A7B7rYU8LGerCb-Pd9fJEGLJO3SzGkvkReRYM1Zh14pvHV3rH0_7TM/s1600/DSC_0448.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlI-PXYl_9W-YsJRZu1USnK0RfjWPAgb4qhy7fZdhBJ-nx3Hyy0da8968hADrcxNSbzwW6vZ-MkxSC7LQJNscV0A7B7rYU8LGerCb-Pd9fJEGLJO3SzGkvkReRYM1Zh14pvHV3rH0_7TM/s320/DSC_0448.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596587233299335458" border="0" /></a>Good times.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(a big thanks to my dear wife Chrissy...she takes awesome pics)</span><br /></div>Zach O.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670253630597251896noreply@blogger.com3