Derald

I'm reaching that midway point for sure now, but I've already done the unthinkable and reenlisted for six more years, ha. I'm probably gonna wind up doing the full twenty if possible; similarly already getting bugged by the mess since I'll be eligible for the Chief exam here soon, and I'm not so sure I want to put it on. If it happens I feel it'll be a huge mistake on their part. Eventually I plan on settling down in the Pacific Northwest. All my childhood memories of that area were splendid - all the dark, rolling mists and sprawling pine forests. Beautiful. When I come back from being stationed in Japan I'd like to take shore duty around that area to get started. As far as the countries I've managed to explore, my first tour was aboard the USS Gravely out of Norfolk, so my two deployments took me to the Mediterranean and Middle East. Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Israel, and Bahrain were some main hubs that we frequented, and stops like Croatia, Santorini, Cyprus, and Montenegro were absolute gems. Though I am pissed that after I checked off the ship they went on a NATO tour all around Europe and basically partied in each country for like a week at a time. Still, I am thankful for the sights I've seen and the memories I've made at each of the breathtaking locations in that part of the world. At the moment I'm enjoying the student life at GSM C school stateside, so it's a welcome break. Though the sub life is something foreign to me, I'm glad you were at least able to still see locales that you were able to fall in love with.

Thank you! I'm certainly not looking forward to the new madness that is PRTs after such a long lazy period. Congrats on making it out alive! How long were you in for? And what would you say was your favorite port while out and about?

Sixteen years later this is where I am in life. I hope everyone's been safe and well.

It's been around sixteen years or so since I joined. So much has changed - both here and in my life. I enlisted in the military, went around the world, lost friends and family, forged new bonds, and I never would have imagined how much I've seen and learned these long years. I sincerely hope everyone has been doing well, and Desbreko, wherever you are, I hope you're having an awesome time.

Oh, man. Let's see...   PS4: I'm currently pouring countless hours into Destiny and loving it. It's a beautiful game - when I'm not knee-deep in the forces of darkness doing a Strike I'm just wandering around and exploring the gorgeous environments on the moon, Venus, or Mars....or Russia.   PS3: When I'm not feeling Destiny (most likely 'cause my connection is shoddy that day) I'll be slicing faces off with my Psycho on Borderlands 2. Yeah, I was a little late to the party with this one, but I'm loving it pretty hard.   PS2: Okay, yeah, so I still have my PS2 around, and there are still a few games for it I never went back and finished - such as  Shin  Megami Tensei's Digital Devil Saga 2 and Nocturne . Both are simply awesome titles, and I still love playing them.   Wii U: Alright, so I picked up Hyrule Warriors not too long ago, and it's pretty fun. Okay, it's really fun, especially when playing with friends.   3DS: I've been settling so many things in Smash lately. The new Super Smash Bros. is definitely ruining some friendships onboard my ship, haha. Awesome title, and I can't wait for the Wii U version. Also, besides Smash, I've been wrapping up Bravely Default and continuing my status as the Bug-Type Gym Leader (and eighth) aboard my ship on Pokemon Y. We still need more people to properly set up the Elite Four.

I think it's about time for me to come back out from hiding.   I've recently indulged in (anime) The Future Diary, Soul Eater, FMA Brotherhood, Kill la Kill, Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet, Speed Grapher, Durarara, and I just started Guilty Crown right before we went out to sea again. I really want to finish it.   Oh, and I rewatched Gurren Lagann and FLCL while out to sea a little while back. Always good.

I actually picked this up a little while back on the PS3, and I've thoroughly enjoyed it as well - I have a 50 Paladin on Lamia that I'm currently gearing; I'm playing with a group of fellow sailors from the ship I'm on.   How far have you gotten? Also, my PSN is Deralito incase you'd like to add me. I realize I haven't been a very outspoken fellow on here throughout the years, but I've been quietly in and out around the boards. I think it's high time I started visiting more.

[SIZE="2"][FONT="Lucida Console"][COLOR="Navy"]I've not played much as of late, but I've been playing [B]Dragon Age: Origins[/B],[B] Borderlands[/B],[B] Street Fighter 4[/B], and [B]Soul Calibur 4[/B] for the PS3. Now, as far as handhelds go, I've been playing [B]Dissidia: Final Fantasy[/B] and [B]Monster Hunter Freedom Unite[/B] on the PSP and[B] Pokemon Platinum Version[/B] on the DSi. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must return to my Human Berserker/Champion on Dragon Age: Origins.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]

[FONT="Lucida Console"][SIZE="1"][COLOR="RoyalBlue"]Wha-? Where have I been these past couple of years? All I recall is graduating from High School, registering at the community college, getting a job at SAM'S Club, and...wait, why am I here? Oh, I remember now! [I][COLOR="Black"]Graphidostreptus gigas:[/COLOR][/I] [IMG]http://www.dinosoria.com/insectes/mille-patte-geant.jpg[/IMG] Commonly known as the African Black Millipede, or even simply the Giant Millipede, this specimen is one of the two largest living millipedes, growing up to around 28 centimeters in length, and it can live up to 6 years. Millipedes, in general, have 2 pairs of legs per body segment, excluding the first, and vary in sizes from a few millimeters, to what was just mentioned in my previous paragraph. They come in 4 main categories: Cylindrical, Plated, Pill, and Bristly. Graphidostreptus gigas is categorized as a Cylindrical millipede due to its blunt, bulldozing head and cylindrical body. Cylindrical millipedes are most noted for bulldozing their way through soil and leaf litter in order to reach their main food source: decayed plant matter. Well, it feels good to do this again after so long; I only hope this thread lives on to interest and educate more folks out there.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Sandy']Sex and physical contact are wonderful things, and I think they're every bit as important as the emotional side in a relationship. Without them, I don't think the relationship can go much further than a caring friendship. But that's just my opinion.[/QUOTE] [quote name='SunfallE']But yeah, in the end? Sex is important in a relationship and not just for marriage.[/quote] [quote name='indifference']Sex is just as important as the other aspects of a relationship.[/quote] [quote name='BKStyles']...if you put half as much effort into the aspects pertaining to the actual act of sex as you do trying to make sense of talking about it...well...you'd be having sex .[/quote] [quote name='Rachmaninoff']Without it, the relationship can't go much further than a caring friendship. A statement that I agree with.[/quote] [COLOR="RoyalBlue"][SIZE="1"][FONT="Trebuchet MS"]Wow. I never knew "Insert Tab A into Slot B" meant the same as "I love you, and I want to be with you forever". It's amazing! Despite how "essential" sex is made out to be, it's still only sex, and I want more out of a relationship than knowing that I'm going to knock-up a girl in the name of my love for her. I like the metaphysical aspects of love. Oh, and as for sex before marriage - do what you want. I don't care. Of course, this is only my opinion.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[SIZE="1"][FONT="Trebuchet MS"][COLOR="RoyalBlue"]So, here's another one: [IMG]http://www.ko-chan.org/b/src/1188028563324.jpg[/IMG] And there's an attachment with a little added humor.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]

[FONT="Trebuchet MS"][COLOR="RoyalBlue"][SIZE="1"]Dang. I forgot if it's even possible to place an image in your post from your computer itself without resorting to thumbnail attachments. Anyhow, my pic is in the attachment, so please take a look.[/SIZE][/COLOR][/FONT]

[quote name='The13thMan'][COLOR=DarkOrange][FONT=Century Gothic]I didn't realize there was any confusion that needed to be cleared up. You did say you wanted some arthropods, didn't you? I don't know a lot about bugs/insects/spiders and whatnot, so please do educate me. [/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [FONT="Lucida Console"][SIZE="1"][COLOR="RoyalBlue"]This is why I created this thread in the first place; I'll be happy to clear up any confusion to the best of my abilities. I just need more people to get involved.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT="Lucida Console"][SIZE="1"][COLOR="RoyalBlue"]I'm back. Anyone miss me? Anyhow, on to my post: [URL="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giant_Weta"]Deinacrida heteracantha[/URL]: [IMG]http://www.geocities.co.jp/NatureLand-Sky/8651/photo/giant_weta.jpg[/IMG] Since we seem to be more inclined towards bigger creatures today, I give you the Giant Weta of New Zealand. This particular species is native to New Zealand's Little Barrier Island, and it is amongst the largest giant weta species in the world; in fact, it's arguably the heaviest insect in the world. I wish to hold one - perhaps even have one as a pet. P.S. - The13thMan, a tarantula is an arachnid. I just thought I should clear that up.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=Navy]1. How old are you?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]I am 17.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]2. How would you say you feel about abstinence? (A. Excellent, B. Good, C. Fair, D. Poor)[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]Hey, if it works for you, so be it. I give it a C.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]3. How many times have you been in a situation where you had to make a decision to abstain from sexual activity or not?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]None.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]4. How many relationships have you been in?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]None.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]5. How often would you say you see public displays of affection?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]Every passing period at school, during lunch, and every minute after school.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]6. When you see these public displays of affection would you say you're offended in any way?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]I don't feel offended - just frustrated.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]7. Would public displays of affection be alright for you to show?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]I don't see why not.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]8. How far would you say is too far for a public display of affection?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]Anything too physical, say, in a formal setting.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]9. In your opinion have school dances become too sexual? Yes/No.[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]To some degree, yes. I knew not of the tradition of dry-humping on the dance floor.[/COLOR] [COLOR=Navy]10. At what age do you think that dating should begin?[/COLOR] [COLOR=RoyalBlue]I'd say around 14-16. Seriously. If you start too late, you have problems with such things later on down the road. Do a field test when you're young.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=RoyalBlue]On the subject of Chu Jellies, I know people have come across the rare, yellow chu jelly that restores all hearts and boosts attack power for a limited time. I have come across only one, and it was on [spoiler]the bridge directly over Lake Hylia[/spoiler]. My question is this: might anyone know where to find some more? Added to this, to those who have acquired the [spoiler]magic armor, what are your thoughts on it? Could it have been better? Is it fine as it is?[/spoiler] Even beyond this, did anyone else think that this is an overly easy Zelda game when compared to its predecessors? I keep looking back at Ocarina of Time, and I can't help but get the feeling that the creators put so much effort into the graphics and story, but left the combat and action somewhat dismal. I'm not sure myself, but that's the feeling I keep getting.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Phaedrus']I work to improve the effects of the good..... I am improving the human existence.[/quote] [FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=RoyalBlue]Really? Despite your drawn out explanation of how you operate, you failed to establish what "good" is to us. Would you care to explain how your dynamic changes for the "better" would benefit us overall? When you maximize everything's potential, then, theoretically, there is perfection. That is my antagonist. Perfection. When something becomes perfect, there is no obstacle to overcome, and, thus, there is no reason to continue if there is nothing left for it to perform. Flaws allow us to continue. Flaws allow us to specialize. Flaws allow for identification of one's self and others. I am flawed, and I am happy. I am perfect, and I am without purpose. Oh, and please do not take offense to my comments.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=RoyalBlue]Advice? I need it not. However, here's some advice to you: Read the Rules and FAQ sections before posting, so as to become a bit more familiar and understanding of the site's regulations. You see, this post here is considered spam, for it offers no sturdy discussion basis, and it will eventually be deleted by a moderator. Forgive me if I was somewhat rude. Well, later.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=RoyalBlue]When I think of New York, I think of the Adirondack Mountains, and of evergreen forests, the Saratoga race tracks, and of my old home. Yes, I lived in New York for a while - in a little town called Malta. It's located in the city of Ballston Spa, in Saratoga County. My old address was 67 Snowberry Rd, Malta, NY 12020 (if anyone wants to look it up), and I do miss it dearly. Oh, the brisk autumn air, the vibrant display of leaves - to think I am missing all of this while I sit in an air-conditioned room here in Texas, hiding myself from the heat and humidity which still hangs around, despite the time of year. How I long to return to New York, at least only to see the snow fall in winter - to see the tall evergreen trees powdered in ghostly sheets of white. Oh, well, later. EDIT - I have been to New York City, though, stood on the rooftop of one of the World Trade Center towers back in 1999, and I dined at one of their restaurants near the top floor, so I, at least, have something I can say about my travels.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=DeepSkyBlue]Wow...there is more to life than just sex. Was she really so blinded as to lose sight of tomorrow? Man, I understand that hormones can really take hold of a person, but this is ridiculous. Did her parents not know that she was having such problems? Was she too ashamed to talk to her parents? What was the deal? Now, thanks to this foolish act, she is forever shackled, bound by the wake of her actions, only to rise every day to a relentless suffering brought upon by her own doing. That is no way to live life.[/COLOR] However, I feel that my other half deserves a turn. [COLOR=Navy]What she should have done was try taking pills or hanging herself - hell, even jumping (or, in this case, driving) off a bridge would have done more good than steering into oncoming traffic. What incoherent, mindless drivel was going through her hollow skull? Stupid, to say the least. Then again, every person has the capacity to do something of the like within themselves, and so I see not why this is news. However, the other family really didn't deserve that.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=Navy]Well, after long weeks of picking apart the starting trio based on my preferences, I have finally come to a decision: I shall begin with Naetle. Why? Because I have always chosen from the reptile starters. Example: In Red, I began with Charmander; in Silver, I began with Totodile; in Ruby, I began with Treecko; now I shall begin with Naetle. Why always the reptile? I simply adore reptiles above mammals and birds. Turtles, lizards, snakes - they're all just so very "cool." I wish, though, that they had a Bug-type starter - for I also love insects and arachnids. Anyways, even though the monkey is "original," to say the least, and the penguin is "adorable," the turtle has my vote.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=Navy]This is for Adult Swim, right? Well, I already saw the ending over a year ago (hooray for fansubs), and I must say that they should have kept the story going. [spoiler]Really, the ending flat-out sucked. No kidding. It wasn't even the end of the story, they just cut the series short and left you with a massive cliffhanger. Did they ever defeat Naraku? Will Inuyasha stay with Kagome after the ordeal is over? You do not find out, and you will hate it for that.[/spoiler][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=Navy]Well, in the mall in my town, there works an Albanian girl which I often converse with and have a good time. However, when I asked her out to the Homecoming dance this past Saturday she declined. When I asked her why, she responded that her parents are already looking for some Albanian guy for her to marry when they eventually return to their home country. So, this means that she can't go on dates with guys here (she even gets yelled at whenever she is seen hanging around with other guys) and I seem to have become attracted to her...(I haven't told her yet, though). So, this is really quite sad.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1][COLOR=Navy]Hmm. First off, the purchase of Pokemon versions Red/Blue to Emerald certainly merits me with geek points, several of them, not to mention the fact that I initially played over 620 hours on the original Red version back when it came out, then restarted it for another 200 or so hours. So, yeah, I don't do that anymore, but the fact remains that I still did it in the past. Second, I have recently purchased the Darth Vader voice-changing helmet along with Darth Vader's lightsaber (with lights and sounds!...oh, God, am I ever so miserable), and I dressed up as Darth Veder for Halloween last year. Uber bonus geek points are go! Well, those are the things that mot easily stand out in my memory. Later.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]