Early Tuesday morning, two Tampa police officeres were gunned down and killed. Officer David Curtis and officer Jeffrey Kocab were shot during an early morning traffic stop and tried to arrest a suspect who had a bench warrent being issued against him for writing a worthless check. For A check!!! What I am afraid is that we're all getting used to this type of violence - it scares me...
I'm speechless. So senseless. Two lives were taken for nothing. There is no point to this really, than the suspect choosing to kill, no regards to lives whatsoever. What kind of world are we living these days? Both officers were husband and father - and they were both 31.
Officer Kocab's wife is 9 month pregnant with their first child and is due next week, but the reports surfaced that because of all the stress she has gone through since her husband's death, she has gone into labor. The police department however, says that she's having contractions, but she won't be delivering today... Can you imagine what's that like to lose your husband while you're 9 month pregnant, and not have him right next to you, helping you through the delivery or not having him to hold the baby for the first time? This is so sad that he won't be there for such a beautiful day, which would have been the happiest moment of their lives.
I can't imagine the pain and sadness that surround two officers' wives and children - they were alive Monday and the next morning they were gone. They say goodbye to their families and promised they will be home, but never comes home. It's such tragedy that many of us are angry and ask, "Why?" Is this a simple reminder that our lives are fragile, and we never know when is our time to say goodbye? And that we have to live our lives every day to it's fullest??
I usually don't talk about politics or religion on my blog because we all have the right to support and believe whatever we wish - that's called "FREEDOM" this country strongly stands for.
I've been wanting to write about a post, but didn't know when was the right time. But today, this post is going to be a bit serious and very sad.
On December 30th last year (as in last week), 7 CIA officers (8th victim was a Jordanian army captain who was Jordanian intelligence working closely with CIA) were killed in Eastern Afghanistan by a suicide bomber insde Forward Operating Base Chapman. The suicide bomber was later confirmed that the double agent for both CIA and Jordinian working for Taliban. Sounds like it's something you see it in the movies, but this is a real deal. The remains of seven CIA officers were flown to Dover Air Force base in Delaware yesterday (Jan 4th.) We'll never find out who those people are because of the nature of their job: working for CIA, but the reports say that one of the victims was a CIA chief based in Khost (the region where CIA operating base was located) and she was the mother of three: A mother...
And I can't find the words to express my sorrow for those who died. I can write about Fuji Apple or Disney movies or my family's on my blog because I am safe today. And I am safe today because of all the men and women who risk their lives trying to catch the bad guys... Whether you like to hear it or not, it is the truth. All those people are doing what they are doing because they want to protect us thousands of miles away . And they die from it. It happens every day. And I can't help, but to be grateful for their sacrifice and pray for their safe return.
I copied and pasted the statement released by CIA and CIA Director Leon E. Panetta.
*Statement on CIA Casualties in Afghanistan
CIA Director Leon E. Panetta informed the Agency workforce today that seven of their colleagues were killed and six others were injured on Wednesday at a Forward Operating Base in Khost Province, Afghanistan. The casualties were the result of a terrorist attack.
“Those who fell yesterday were far from home and close to the enemy, doing the hard work that must be done to protect our country from terrorism,” Director Panetta said in a message to employees. “We owe them our deepest gratitude, and we pledge to them and their families that we will never cease fighting for the cause to which they dedicated their lives—a safer America.”
“Families have been our Agency’s first priority,” Director Panetta added. “Before sharing this information with anyone else, we wanted to be in contact with each of them. This is the most difficult news to bear under any circumstances, but that it comes during the holidays makes it even harder. In coming days and weeks, we will comfort them and honor their loved ones as a family. They are in our thoughts and prayers—now and always.”
Due to the sensitivity of their mission and other ongoing operations, neither the names of those killed nor the details of their work are being released at this time.
“Yesterday’s tragedy reminds us that the men and women of the CIA put their lives at risk every day to protect this nation,” Director Panetta said. “Throughout our history, the reality is that those who make a real difference often face real danger.”
Director Panetta credited US military doctors and nurses with saving the lives of those wounded in the attack. In honor and memory of the dead, he requested that the flags at CIA Headquarters be flown at half-staff.*
My sincere gratitude to those who fight the war on terrorism and deepset sympathy for those who lost their lives for our country....
So, it's been two days since Ju Ju and Soapy left for NJ. The house is all quiet and I expect to hear them crying for me late at night or their voices in the afternoon, but I don't. It's just weird feeling for not having them around for such a long period of time.
The night they arrived in NJ, they called us to say good night and to tell us that they miss their daddy and mommy. They promised they'll call tomorrow (Wednesday). Well, they didn't!
Me and JT were staring at both of our cell phones and house phone past 7pm. JT said, "Okay, I can't take it, I'm gonna call them now.." and tried to call his mom on her cell. "JT, if the girls miss us, they'll call us. Let's wait for them to call.." I said. I cooked Prime Rib with corn and broccoli and baked potato for dinner. It was very nice because we went to buy the steak together and shopped around at the Fresh Market just two of us which we hadn't shopped like that in a long time. We usually busy telling our girls to stay in the cart or stay by us and rushing ourselves to get out the supermarket.
Anyway, after we ate dinner, still no phone calls from NJ. Now, it's me telling JT to call. He called, no answer. We called again after 20 minutes. No answer nor phone call...
We were shocked! Our girls don't miss us..... :( Mommy and daddy are heartbroken.
I guess, the girls are having way too much fun, fun enough to forget to call their mama and daddy. Believe me, I know it is a great thing - we're happy for them. But we want to hear their voice. Girls, please call mommy and daddy!
Also, JT is looking into a hotel in town for us to stay when he has a few days off next week. Apparently it was a little surprised, but I saw him on the computer doing stuff and saw him checking out some nice places.... I am very excited!!!!
The thing is, JT and I have been enjoying our time together a lot more than we have anticipated. We do miss our girls terribly, especially at night, but I must admit I do enjoy time alone with my husband. I was already pregnant with Ju Ju when I married JT, so we never had been alone since our wedding. Granted, we dated two years before getting married, but we're always JT, Maki & Ju Ju, then we added Soapy after three years of marriage.
I think JT and I are discovering each other again - we laugh more and we cuddle more. We are back as a young couple who love to spend time together. Having children do change priority in our lives. We're always busy trying to raise two little adults. I love them to death and my life is not complete without them, but I think JT and I missed many things that are important in our relationship which is to be a husband and a wife, not just daddy and mommy.
One of the things is that I go to bed with JT, only to be awaken by our daughters early in the wee hours, asking me to sleep with them because they're scared. I drag my heavy body and walk them to their room. The right thing to do would be to put them back to bed and head back to our bedroom. But, I get so tired that I end up sleeping in their room, either with Ju Ju or Soapy. I knew we needed to break this bad habit of ours, but I had a very tough time. Ju Ju told me, "Mommy, I'm going to practice to sleep alone when I go to NJ. Are you happy, you can sleep with daddy now!" So, for the past two nights I'm sleeping in bed with JT through out the night - morning, waking up next to him. It's a wonderful feeling. I'm truly enjoying our time together. I'm grateful for JT's mom taking our daughters to the longest summer trip in NJ - I think this will be great for all of us...
Also, I'm so fortunate to have my grandfather who taught me so much while growing up. He's no longer alive, but him surviving that fateful morning 64 yars ago, has shaped who I am. I believe two things so strongly because of him; Love and Peace....
If you're new to my blog and if you missed last year's post, you can read ithere... I miss you, Ojichan, so very much.
I am alive (just in case if you're wondering...) - I think I was away from you for more than five days???? Wow. Well, I have many things to talk about and this post is going to be looooong! Are you ready?
So, my BFF K's birthday party was a huge success, but the aftermath brought me a horrific headache for several days. I thought I was going to die!! But I really, really had a blast with all my friends. I am going to be honest, we didn't take many photos because we're way too busy drinking (sigh) and drinking and more drinking! Ha! First two photos were taken before going out at my BFF K's house. Then the third photo was taken in the bathroom at the bar we went. Truthfully, I don't remember taking this photo.. LOL. Also, we danced to some great music - my husband and B-I-L also were dancing, so it must have been a great night.. One of the songs that we danced to was "Poker Face" by Lady Gaga. The DJ did an awesome job spinning and the beat was awesome in the club and made the song so much better hearing it than on radio!!! Listen it here
On Saturday, as I suffered from a severe headache (which lasted two long days by the way), I laid on the couch and watched HBO Original movie, "Taking Chance"...You all HAVE to see this movie!!!! The film is based on a true story about an officer escorting the remain of a Marine to his hometown.This movie truly touched my heart to the core. It will move you if you see it.... As of today, 4884 U.S. service men and women have dedicated their lives for Operation Iraq Freedom and Enduring Freedom. click herefor more info.
4884...
When their remains are brought back to the U.S., they are carefully prepared by military morticians. Then military memebers get detail instructions to escort their remains to their hometown. In this movie, Lt. Col. Michael Strobl (played by Kevin Bacon) volunteers to escort 19-year-old Lance Cpl. Chance Phelps'.
During this trip, Strobl witnesses and encounters many compassionate and kind citizens who want to show their gratitude and respect towards the fallen Marine. Nothing dramatic happens in this movie, but the whole story delivers the most important message without even trying; how horrible war is and how sad that we've lost thousands and thousands of young solders and marines during this long war....
Lance Cpl. Chance Phelps' story represents over four thousands men and women's lives and their families sorrow. The coffins covered by American flags - many and many of them fly back to the U.S. everyday. And it is truly heartbreaking...
But I am glad that I got to see this movie and I strongly believe every single citizen in this country should and must see it. Trailer.
On Sunday, I enjoyed watching "Oscars 09" --- Did you watch it? Did you enjoy it? I always enjoy looking at the gowns and tuxes that all the actresses and actors wear for the fun occation. I thought this year they did a wonderful job summoning the past award winners to announce the supporting and leading role nominees and presenting the awards. My favorite part was the Best Actor segment because my favorite De Niro talked about my another favorite actor Sean Penn. The movie they did together in the past, "We're No Angles" is so good!!! I love it.
Anyway, I am happy Sean Penn won the Best Actor. I love his wife Robin Wright - she is beautiful. Remember when she said, 'Run Forrest, Ruuuuunnnn!!"? They've been through a lot, even getting a divorce only to get reconcile... Their bond is so strong...
And there is Brangelina.. One of my favorite couples in Hollywood. They are so gorgeous together. Many of you already know how much I love them as couple. Read my old post if you're interested and you'll know why...
I do think though, Brad was looking old that night - was it because of his beard or his new role that he's playing?? But still, he is beautiful.. (big sigh..)
But today, I want to say how much I love seeing Jennifer Aniston and John Mayer together as couple. John Mayer is one of my favorite singers (Do you realize I have way too many favorites? LOL). I have all his CD's. I don't care what other people say, but I love his music. He is funny and I secretly follow two of his blogs... And I must admit, I really thought Jennifer Aniston and John Mayer were really cute together at the Oscars.
Yes, Brandgelina is gorgeous, but I really thought Jen and John were charming together, too! John Mayer is pretty funny guy and I think he's good for Jen. She needs someone who can make her laugh and happy... Well, filling Brad's shoes is kind of big, but I hope he can do it!
I love NY Giants, but this year's Superbowl is the showdown between Steelers and Cardinals.
When I see Cardinals play, I think of Pat Tilman. He played the safety for Cardinals, then September 11 attacks happened. In 2002, he turned down the multi-million dollars contract and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He left the luxry of being a NFL football player to follow what he thought what's the right and best thing to do - to fight for his country. He died in April 2004 by friendly fire in combat in Afghanistan.
He's a very courageous person. Not many people are willing to throw away their comfortable lives and put themselves in danger - how many of us are willing to take that risk to actually act on your virtue?
He is a true hero who dedicated his life for his country, our counrty and us...
So I am going for Cardinals tonight. I hope Cardinals play for Tilman and try the best they can to honor his life..
Oh! And I had another reason for going for Cardinals. Kurt Warner - he is HOT!
Today's Sunday Music Choice - "I Hate This Part" by Pussy Cat Dolls
I am digging and loving this song!! Do you think they changed the producer?? They are coming up with bunch of good songs lately.... What do you think? Do you like it?
I can't wait to see and post all the funny Superbowl commercial later!!!
Okay, some of you looking at today's title might think, "Here she goes, that Japanese gal misspelling again.." Ding Dong! Not this time my friends; I'm not talking about James Bond just so you know. :)
About three months ago, I was watching Dateline on TV about child trafficking in Cambodia where many young children as little as 4 have been used as sex slaves. It was simply horrible and heartbreaking. As many of you know, I have two little girls; 4 and 2 years old. I looked at the girls in Cambodia on TV, I couldn't stop thinking to myself, "What kind of a world do we live in?"
Then the program introduced one extraordinary family who watched the original Dateline "Child Sex Trade in Cambodia" 4 years back and did something unimaginable. James Pond and his wife were watching the story on Dateline about the sex trade and they were in such a state of shock; crying and couldn't even get off the couch. So, what did they do?? They talked to their children the next morning about the story and they had all decided that they want to do something about it. How?? Not by sending money. James Pond quit his job as a successful sales executive, they sold their house and moved to Cambodia. His family has built a safe house for the girls who were sex slave and trying to help rehabilitate those girls, so that they would have a better life.
Okay, my friends. We often watch something on TV that moves and touches you; makes you wanting to change the world. But how many of us really put that into the action? James Pond and his family are incredible. I couldn't even cry because I was simply amazed how brave Pond family was..
Please read the story about the recent update on "Child Sex Trade in Cambodia" and you'll meet James Pond (page 5 - 6). He also has a blog called "Transitions Global (formally known as Transitions Cambodia)". His story is eye-opening experience and makes you want to do something to help, not just sitting in front of computer all day blogging (I'm talking about myself, my readers..). And you can, too, to change the life one person at a time.
Have a wonderful weekend!!!
PS: Today is the last day to enter Pay It Forward Contest!!!
Early Tuesday morning, two Tampa police officeres were gunned down and killed. Officer David Curtis and officer Jeffrey Kocab were shot during an early morning traffic stop and tried to arrest a suspect who had a bench warrent being issued against him for writing a worthless check. For A check!!! What I am afraid is that we're all getting used to this type of violence - it scares me...
Posts
