Movies and Man-Jams...What Else is New?

Leon,

Been about a week since my last entry and I have some free time (a lot, actually) so I figured I'd shoot out a fresh one.

The time since my return from Salerno has been spent reading Wikipedia articles and watching movies — Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang is an outstanding film, and dragon fruit is also called "pitahaya." Now you know.

My poetry and art have been less productive, but not for lack of thought. I just can't seem to put my visions on paper.

In recent days, I've found myself listening to the funky and enjoyable tunes of Gorillaz. I've always enjoyed the band since I had seen the animated music video for their single Clint Eastwood. The band itself is, in fact, virtual. In other words, they're portrayed as cartoon characters with their own fictional backgrounds — most of which are humorously ridiculous.

The individual who provides the artwork for the group is mostly known for the comic book series Tank Girl, which has been made into a cult live-action film. Plans for a Gorillaz movie also are in the works; this, however will be animated.

Their sound is varied, often mixing various genres from hip-hop to Britpop to spoken verse. I recommend lending an ear — their second studio album, Demon Days, is amazing.

My taskings have been small with the most important request being to take pictures of a Major General eating breakfast and receiving a number of briefings. I've once again declined to attend the promotion board, stating that I had no desire to be an NCO.

My NCOIC respected my decision and withdrew my name from the list. Later, in my monthly counseling, he would state that my refusal to attend the board was a "Blatant slap in the face to him and the Corps." I certainly didn't intend for it to come off in that way, but made no attempt to reconcile.

Oddly enough, I'll be the only one in charge of the office for the following week — I have a water bottle filled 1/4 of the way with moist, empty sunflower seed husks, which will surely be filled in the process.

Currently, I'm busy trying to hook up with a local interpreter in an attempt to procure a set of what we call "Man-Jams" — the traditional articles of clothing worn by the local males, consisting of the baggy button-up shirt and loose pants, often worn with a cloth vest. I just have to get a tailor to take my measurements.

That's all for now.

Peace,

Feelgoode