What a day/night. Running on 3 hours of sleep because of “email”.  Got up and at least took time to go for a jog so I would have the energy to finish out the day/night.  Had 174 emails last night that needed answering before I went to bed.  Just “gave up”! 
Got back from jogging and threw my exercise clothes in the washer on our floor (so convenient).  Today is one of the last days I’ll have to shop and I really wanted to answer the emails quickly and get down to Itaewan.  It wasn’t meant to be.  Had a call from Don saying Buffy is sick and she thinks it is bronchitis.  I knew she was feeling bad last night.  So, spent the next hour trying to figure out how to get her to the doctor and get some antibiotics for her.  Finally settled on waiting until we get to Camp Humphreys where we will perform tonight.
Then, I spent the next 4 hours trying to answer all the emails.  So, no shopping.  Tomorrow is my last opportunity and I’ll only have a couple of hours then.  So my dear friends – HOLD YOUR EMAILS UNTIL SATURDAY SO I CAN HAVE SOME SHOPPING TIME!!! J
Osan AFB called and wanted to know if we could perform a show for them while we are here.  I had offered them the show many months ago and they declined.  I know that they always want a Friday or Saturday night and we didn’t have one available.  We are now looking at the logistics of doing it on Wednesday night, then flying home on Thursday.  We shall see!
Got in touch with General Bell’s aide who assisted in getting us set up with a doctor once we arrive “The Hump”.   MWR had already taken care of getting her to the Infirmary as soon as we arrive.  The doctors were waiting for us and took a chest x-ray which confirmed she has bronchitis.  They said if she had tried to treat it herself and had not seen the doctor, it could have turned into bronchitis.  Personally, I still think it’s the “Korea Krud” that everyone gets when they breathe the air here!  They gave Buffy a shot and a bag full of drugs – seriously! 
The base was definitely ready for our visit.  Everyone was so nice and the Colonel and other officers certainly made us feel welcome as did MWR.   I can’t believe how big the crowds have been for our shows and I have a sneaking suspicion it has something to do with the “email blast” that General Bell sent out prior to arrival regarding their performances.  Plus, there are a lot more posters at each base than I’ve ever seen before.
Girls did a short interview with the local base newspaper and then met the Stars and Stripes winners.  The base commander and several other officials and their families came backstage to meet the girls.  We had about 850 people at the show which is terrific.  Lots of ROK soldiers (Republic of Korea) who seemed to really love Bomshel!  J  It was another terrific show and Buffy got through it like a true champ.  If she had not mentioned her illness, I don’t think anyone would have noticed.  They were able to get the base commander on the stage and had him do the Bomshel Stomp with them.  General Bell and his wife Katie had planned to attend the performance tonight at Humphreys since they can’t come to the show at Yongsan tomorrow night due to a schedule conflict.  But, as luck would have it, the rain started and they were unable to helicopter down for the performance.  It’s been beautiful every day until today.  Someone just didn’t read mine and Katie’s “rule book” and there will be hell to pay.  Was really looking forward to having them see the show. But, at least they will see a shortened version when we perform for them on Tuesday night.
Girls signed autographs for everyone in line and then we went to dinner at the Alaska Mining Company – a restaurant on base where I’ve eaten many times.   I saw lots of people at this base that remember me from previous visits.  Always nice to see old friends.  Questions were the same – “who are you bringing us next and when”.  They say I always bring them the best entertainment.  J
So, answering emails but not until 4 am tonight.  Show tomorrow night is here at this base.
Jude

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26^TH:
Well, at least I know “someone” is reading my road reports!  I meant to say that the doctor told Buffy that if she had tried to treat her bronchitis herself, it would have turned into “pneumonia”!!!  J
So another good workout after 4 whole hours of sleep today.  Then showered and answered “some” of my emails.  Hit the streets to try and power shop.  So many of my regular “shops” are closed down. I went to my “secret bag shop” and they didn’t have anything I wanted.  Also went to my “copy watch” guy and he didn’t have anything good. Basically, I struck out totally.  Hoping we can go to Osan on our day off and shop there.
Sound check was painless and I saw my old buddy Mario (I met him at Osan years ago) and John Robinson while we were rehearsing.  Back to the hotel to shower and get ready for the show. 
Had great visits with my “friends” backstage before the show.  Colonel Taliente was there and I met him at Humphreys.  He has been instrumental in helping set up the event for General Bell.  Which by the way, something really cool happened today.  Spyder came by and dropped off beautiful color photos that General Bell had autographed to me, Buffy, and Kristy.  The photos were taken when we were at their home for dinner on Monday night.  I told Kristy, “That’s WHY he is a General” and she said “yes, but Katie gets a lot of credit, too”.  And it’s very true.  They are both such amazing people that it’s easy to see why he has risen to the rank of a 4 Star. 
 

Our new friend – Todd – from Special Forces was at the show as were Sal and Bill and lots of other “old friends” I’ve made throughout the years from coming over here.  I was a little disappointed in the attendance at the show tonight.  Yongsan is usually our biggest crowd.  But, there were some empty seats tonight.  The people who were there were treated to another fantastic performance thought.  Someone with MWR told me that Yongsan should have the show on a weeknight not a weekend.  This Base has lots of families stationed here which means kids which means soccer games, etc. on the weekend.  The parents have too many commitments elsewhere on weekends.  The girls were given another presentation after the performance and then they signed autographs for a very short autograph line.
Spyder, Kristy, Don and I weren’t down to Itaewon to eat Thai food.  Buffy went to bed and the musicians ate at the hotel.  Todd was supposed to join us but he hooked up at the hotel bar with the musicians and never made it down to eat with us.  The food was so incredibly HOT (spicy hot!) that we couldn’t eat very much of it.  Don’t get me wrong…it was good, but definitely too HOT! 
Came back to the Dragon Hill Lodge and went into the bar to say goodnight to the boys and Todd.  Now it’s email answering time.
Tomorrow we leave early for the DMZ then a performance at Camp Casey.  Can’t believe we only have 3 shows out of 6 left.  It has been such a great tour and I know we’ve made some troops very happy which is our only reason for coming here.
Jude

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27^TH:
Like I said, got to quit writing these road reports at 2 o’clock in the morning.  Lots of mistakes.  J
Was not complaining about the crowd size at Yongsan.  It was still a “full” room.  I was just comparing it to the other two shows where the rooms were “packed”.  Of course, the other camps are in remote areas where there isn’t a big choice of other activities.  Yongsan is in the heart of Seoul with the majority of the people living “off-base”. 
I was so surprised that all the restaurants in Itaewon closed at 9 pm last night.  We went to 3 different restaurants before finding the one that was open.  Itaewon “rocks” at night – with all the shops still open, bars everywhere, and bumper to bumper traffic.  But, only a handful of restaurants are open.
Got up and answered email and got dressed for the DMZ.  There is a very strict dress code when visiting that area.  No frayed or torn jeans, no tennis shoes or open toed shoes, guys must have collared shirts, girls can’t show mid-drifts or dress provocative, etc. etc.  Everyone had been prepped prior to departing the U.S.  Kristy and I were wearing leggings with long tops over them.  Inappropriate.  We got sent back to our rooms to change.  J   I sort of wondered as I was dressing if it would be an issue.  Definitely don’t want to do anything that might be against their regulations as it is very important for us to maintain a good image for the U.S.
We have a representative from the local USO on the bus with us for the drive up to the DMZ.  He is a Korean man and a “wealth” of knowledge.  He has been talking about Korea ever since we left the DHL an hour ago.  The group is loving learning all about Korea and the DMZ.
When we arrived at the DMZ, I immediately knew something was “different”.  We are always greeted by our “military escorts”, but never a LTC and the JSA Battalion Sgt. Major.  When we went into the briefing room, the LTC told us that General Bell had visited a couple of days ago and wanted to insure that we were given the “red carpet treatment”.   They proceeded to do that – and more.   I’ve been up there probably 15 times throughout the years but never been allowed to walk halfway down the “Bridge of No Return”.  We had a delay in our visit to the JSA (Joint Security Area) because there was a repatriation taking place.  That’s when human remains are transferred between North and South Korea.  This one was not a “military repatriation”.  It was the body of a female north Korea found in the river in South Korea.  She was being transferred back to North Korea for burial.  Once that ceremony was over, we were allowed to go to the JSA.  We did the standard “tourist” thing where we went into the building and crossed over into North Korea and had our photo taken with a ROK soldier (Republic of Korea).
But, here is the highlight of the ENTIRE tour.   Nothing is ever going to top this.  Betty and Tracy – sit down because you are going to laugh so hard you’ll fall over.  We are all standing on the steps of the Freedom House facing the North Korean guards and their buildings in North Korea.  The LTC was giving us an incredible briefing on that area --the history and protocol about what was acceptable.  We were all standing very quietly, completely enthralled by his speech.  Now how do I say this without offending anyone?  Oh heck, there’s no one on my Road Report list that I could possibly offend.  What am I thinking?  So, it’s dead quiet except for his voice when there is this minor “blast”.  My first thought was “surely not”!  It had to be something other than someone loudly passing gas.  Kristy’s head snapped around in disbelief and her face was priceless.  Then there was a series of several more blasts and it was very easy to identify where it came from.   Our little Korean USO guide definitely had too much kimchee for breakfast.  Everyone was now focused on him instead of the LTC and struggling not to laugh.    I knew I had to move away from Kristy (and from the USO guy – phewwww) or I would collapse.  I moved over by Eric who was standing on the other side of our group, thinking surely they had not heard it.  They had.  Eric was laughing so hard tears were running down his face.  I completely lost it.  The LTC had no clue what was happening and I’m sure was offended that we were all laughing at his very serious briefing.  When he finished and I could breathe again, I made sure to tell him and the other military personnel accompanying us what had happened. One of the soldiers had gone up to his buddy and asked if his fly was open or something thinking we were laughing at him.  Buffy and Kristy both thought it was one of their guys and were horrified that they might act that way.  Sure made for a memorable visit to the JSA. This may be “acceptable” behavior for the Koreans since I’ve noticed it quite frequently at the airport!!!  Katie – be sure and ask for this USO guide to accompany you on your visit.  Your nephews will love it.  J
As I said, we visited places I’ve never been allowed to go on previous tours.  Then the LTC presented us all with a beautiful certificate which states that we are an “IMJIN Scout for commendable service in the defense of freedom along the Demilitarized Zone, Korea”.  How cool is that? 
We had lunch at the DFAC and signed autographs for the few soldiers (yes, all Army up here).  Then we went to the gift shop to buy some DMZ souvenirs.  I have quite a few but am constantly buying more for gifts.
We arrived at Camp Casey an hour later and Kristy said her throat was sore.  Can’t take any chances since we still have 3 more shows.  So, we went to the hospital and got her checked out.  Doctor said it isn’t strep or tonsillitis but gave her some antibiotics.  Said he would rather be aggressive than to take a chance that it might develop into something tomorrow. 
I walked over to the Exchange Food Court where there is wireless internet and got a chance to catch up on some emails.  Katie Bell emailed me a great photo of all of us holding our certificates and standing on the “Bridge of No Return”.  I ran into my old buddy who was the MWR Director here at Camp Casey for years.  He’s now handling the USO here and doing a great job. 
General Rameriz came backstage to welcome and meet the girls and I KNEW I had met him before.  He spent a lot of time in Iraq and Kuwait and saw Charlie Daniels and lots of my other tours that came through there.  It was so cool to talk to him about Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan.  The only thing better than actually being in Iraq is talking to someone who has been in the same places I have.  What a wonderful man he is.  He really wants to go back over to the desert.  So do I.  Am so glad I’ll be able to spend Thanksgiving there with our troops. 
Not sure what happened to our “crowd” tonight.  They were expecting about 800 people but by 7 pm when the show was due to start, the crowd was very light.  Everyone was running around making phone calls and looking worried.  We told them “Chill.  We will give the ones here the best concert they’ve ever seen”.  We don’t care if there are 5 or 5,000 people in the audience.  What this group lacked in size, the made up for in enthusiasm.  It was a great show and the girls had “fun” on stage.  They signed autographs and then we went to the restaurant for a very quick dinner.  Back at the DHL by midnight.  We have to check out and take the train down to Daegu tomorrow for our last show for the Army tomorrow night.
Jude

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28^TH:
So, here’s something I forgot to mention last night.  While we were up at the DMZ, the LTC was explaining why we are having the troop drawdown and closing so many camps in Korea.  Basically, we are downsizing American forces because the Korean Army is strong and able to defend their own country.  My comment was, yes that was the goal and look at how long we have had been there while their Army worked to reach this point.  The Armistice was signed in 1953 and this is 2007.  You do the math.  Yet we expect the Iraqi Army to take over ALL their protection and bring our troops home NOW.  That invasion was in 2003 and it is now 2007.  I suppose everyone has heard the wonderful news that not one American was killed last week in Iraq. I see the progress we are making there and as long as I visit with the boots on the ground and the wounded heroes and they tell me they want to finish the mission because they believe they can succeed, I’ll make my decisions based on what they say.  NOT what I hear on the news.  Not trying to “sway” anyone.   Just wanted to share that comparison.
We made it to the train station early because there wasn’t any traffic on Sunday.  The group loved the bullet train.  But, it’s so “quiet” on there (they frown on loud talking!  Wonder what they would think about our little Korean USO “popper”  J  ?  ) that everyone fell asleep instead of watching the scenery.   The ride is at about 180 miles per hour and smooth as glass. 
We arrived at Camp Walker and I got to see all my “buddies”  -- Lewis and Mr. Chandler – who always take such good care of us.  Met a new “friend” – M.J. who handles the lodging for several camps.  She is going to take me and Buffy shopping tomorrow.  Never been shopping in Daegu and looking forward to the experience.  I went over to the Dentist to get my teeth glued back in.  But they had told him I’d be there at 2 pm and it was almost 3 when I arrived.  Since it is a Sunday, he wasn’t there.  I am supposed to go back at 7 am tomorrow but not sure I’ll make it. 
Sound check was painless and we arrived at 6:15 for a “meet and greet” with the VIPs.  CSM Duncan (I think that is his rank) was there with his lovely wife.  I met them last October with Charlie Daniels.  Their daughter is in Iraq and if she is still at the same camp, Ill be there in a few weeks with Aaron Tippin.  Told them I’d give her a big hug for them.
Now, here’s the best part of the night.  This guy walked in and we looked at each other for several seconds.  Then we realized that we had met at Camp Summerall in Iraq in July, 2004 and again in September, 2004.  That is the camp that is so special to me because it’s where Josh Henry was killed the day after Chely performed for him.  That’s where I met my dearest friend – Commander Kyle – and is the Unit that I took Chely Wright and Josh Henry’s parents to Germany for their Welcome Home Celebration.  Seeing him made my day.  He has it set up for my “boys” to do “manly” things at Camp Carroll tomorrow.  They get to play around with the tanks and shoot a rifle simulator while I shop.  J
The show was spectacular.  Great audience.  Not a full house but definitely a good crowd.  The band had problems on stage with the sound system.  One of the monitors totally “blew”.  I was not happy.  We have never used this sound company and I hope we don’t ever use them again.  I gave them a very “stern” talk after the show and told them how important it is that the show for General Bell on Tuesday night is absolutely perfect.  I think they understand the English phrase, “I will kill you if just one little thing goes wrong”.  LOL. 
Buffy dedicated “The Power of One” to me.  She knows I love that song.  It was truly special of her to do that.  If you haven’t listened to the words of that song, do it right now.  Go to:  www.bomshel.com or www.myspace.com/bomshel and listen to it.  It is so powerful and so true.  It’s what President Bush talks about “winning one heart at a time”.  Every time they sing it, I can see the little Iraqi children that we visited with in my mind. 
So…another great evening and a wonderful way to end our tour for the Army bases.  The performance on Tuesday night will be at a hotel about an hour’s drive from here.  Tomorrow is “fun day” for everyone. 
Jude

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29^TH:
My – where DID October go?  Seems I was out of the country the entire month.
Got up and went for a jog.  The weather has changed and it is much cooler.  This is a very small base, so I had to “circle” several times.  Still having shin splints, so it was a painful jog…but at least I got it in. 
Buffy and I went shopping with “MJ” (a WONDERFUL Korean lady who was educated in the U.S. and is married to an American and now handles the “lodging” at Camp Walker and Carroll) and her driver – Mr. Yi.  She took us to a huge shopping center call Suimun (pronounced something like Sun Moon).  Dear God – it was OVERLOAD.  I’ve never seen so many clothes, bags, you name it.  Problem is, the clothes are made for short little Koreans.  Buffy scored big time and got some fantastic bargains.  When the largest bra cup size in Korea is a “B”, I knew I was in trouble.  I did find a great outfit to wear tomorrow night to General Bell’s affair which was a priority for me.  But, forget finding shoes.  They said mine would have to be “custom made”.  We shopped and bargained for hours and Mr. Yi followed us around and held the bags.  We both got some great jeans with funky designs on them, too.
Here’s something you’ll get a kick out of….there are NO dressing rooms.  Now, this place is packed with stall after stall after stall and packed with people trying to “dig through” the clothes.  So, we HAD to try on things and here’s what they do.  They give you this long skirt that has elastic in the waist.  You pull the skirt on over the top of your pants. Then pull your pants off and slip on the new pants.  Pull the skirt off and “wallah”!  I kind of wish this procedure was available in the U.S. when the lines are so long to get into a dressing room!  The same process happens with a blouse….skirt over the head on that one though. The funny thing is, Buffy tried to buy one of the skirts we were using as our “drape”.  MJ negotiated with the booth owner and got it for her free.  Not sure I would want a skirt that hundreds of people had been trying on.
We took a break to go have traditional Korean food.  I’m not a big fan of Korean food but this was excellent.  We had Bulgogi with all the “trimmings”.  I even managed to eat the Kimchi! Spyder had taken the train down from Seoul and he and Kristy joined us for lunch.  Then we took them back to the shopping mall.  We left them there at about 6 pm and she was going strong!
Our guys went to Camp Carroll today for a base tour AND they got to shoot the rifle simulators which they said were awesome.  When we all got back to the base, we went to the Evergreen Club for dinner but it was already closed.  The guys went to the Food Court and got Taco Bell and I went to the Shoppette and got instant Oatmeal! 
It was a wonderful, fun day for everyone. Have to get up early tomorrow and go to “pack and wrap” and the Post Office to ship things home!
Jude