Philadelphia Eagles Blog

Forever in Our Hearts and Minds

Hey Eagles fans,

Happy Wednesday! I just got home from the gym where I completed an awesome work out! How about those football games this past weekend? They were two incredibly close games and were so much fun to watch! I am anticipating the Super Bowl in two weeks, especially the commercials; they are often my favorite part! All right, time to wrap up my adventure to Kuwait. I have to admit, I am rather saddened to stop blogging about Kuwait as it made such an impact on my life and I absolutely love sharing my journey with others. I hope you have all enjoyed reading about our travels and hope you have gained even more of an appreciation for our Armed Forces.

We woke up early our last day in Kuwait and were told to meet in the lobby. The previous day, we were informed we needed to dress warmly and to make sure our arms and legs were completely covered. After meeting in the lobby, we loaded the van and made our way across Camp Arifjan. We pulled up to the helicopter pad and saw two helicopters flying toward us. MSG Gabriel then informed us that the Blackhawks flying toward us were our ride to Camp Virginia. We all screamed in excitement, as we were so anxious to fly in a helicopter. After a safety briefing about boarding and riding in the Blackhawk, we were ready to go. Danielle, Jess, and I boarded one Blackhawk, while Paige, Casey, and Lauren boarded the other. When boarding a Blackhawk, our security leader Marvin informed us that you always approach the helicopter straight on to ensure safety. The wind the propeller gives off is enormous and our hair was blowing all over the place. After being slightly blown away, we successfully boarded the helicopter and were in complete awe of our surroundings. When inside, our pilot and crew introduced themselves and made sure we were buckled in properly. Before we knew it, we were taxiing and getting ready for take-off. I wish I could explain the feeling in my chest and stomach when the Blackhawk took off and we were in the air. It was the most exhilarating feeling I have ever experienced. Once in the air, we were immediately looking from left to right to look out over the country of Kuwait. We saw an endless desert and camels roaming in the sand. Throughout the 45-minute flight to Camp Virginia, the doors of the Blackhawk were often left open so we could feel the air blowing as well as get a better view. There were so many moments where Jess, Danielle, and I would look at one another and smile, all realizing what an incredible journey we had been on.  Before we knew it, we could see Camp Virginia in the distance and we were ready to land. The take-off, landing, and flight were smoother than I ever anticipated.  Upon landing, our crew gave us a tour of the Blackhawk. The “Flying Monkey’s” were from the Kansas National Guard and they all offered us a flight patch which we able to keep. They informed us our Blackhawk was named “Black Betty” while the other helicopter was named “Yuck Yuck”.  After taking hundreds of photographs and asking the Soldiers hundreds of questions, we were off to our Commanders Call.

Our Black-hawk!

The 6 of us, ready for anything

Jess and I, ready to take off!

A view of Kuwait from the air!

"Yuck yuck"

Windows open - looking out over Kuwait

Black Betty!

At the Commanders Call, we met with more members of the Minnesota National Guard. This commander’s call was different than others because it was very laid back. The officers asked us questions about our NFL cheerleading careers and appeared impressed  we are either full time students or hold a full time job. We were awarded another certificate of appreciation and that’s when it really began to hit us that our trip was coming to an end. Following the meeting, we got ready for our final show in Kuwait. This show was extra special not only because it was our last, but we also needed to properly celebrate Paige’s birthday. The commanding officer came on stage and had the entire audience sing Happy Birthday to her and we could all tell how incredibly touched she was. Also, at the end of the show, we invited the Soldiers from the audience to do the “Cupid Shuffle” with us. It was such a great moment of the trip and a phenomenal way to end our last show. After performing for our final audience we had one final meet and greet and then it was time to make our way back to the helicopter pad to fly back to Camp Arifjan. Our flight home was just as exhilarating as the flight there, but this time we were flying in the dark and we got to see Kuwait lit up at night.

Camp Virginia from the air

After returning to Camp Arifjan, we had some free time to pack, shower, and get ready to head home. We decided to eat in the D-FAC one final time. During dinner we sat down with our security team and thanked them endlessly for their hard word. By this point in the trip, they had gotten to know us so well we had become like a family. They even memorized parts of our dance routines and introductions. What really stuck out to us was how much they thanked us for talking to them. They informed us that many entertainers they deal with refuse to talk to them and get to know them. We wouldn’t leave them alone. We wanted to know everything about them, their families, and their future. They are such an incredible group of Soldiers whom I am so incredibly grateful to have met. After dinner, we headed back to our rooms to gather our things and to say goodbye. We were all incredibly emotional and spent much of the ride to the airport crying. Little did we know the hardest goodbye was going to follow; saying goodbye to our security team at the airport was incredibly difficult. We each cried and said “goodbye” over and over again. Marvin, Melvyn, Oscar, Manny and Lawrence had become like family and it seemed like we had arrived only the day before and there we were at the end of our trip. After an emotional goodbye, we checked in at the airport and before we knew it we were boarding the plane back to the United States. 13.5 hours later, we landed in Washington DC and had to rush to our connecting flight to Philadelphia. In Washington DC, we said goodbye to Jody our tour director who was like a father to us and was absolutely incredible! It was such a bittersweet feeling to be home. Of course I had missed my family, but now I missed Kuwait.

Our security team doing our cheerleader pose

Our amazing security team

I knew before going on this trip, it would have an impact on my life, but I never could have anticipated how much it has changed me. The men and women of our armed forces are the most selfless, kind, and dedicated people I have ever met. They are the true heroes of America. I thank God and the Eagles organization for making this trip possible. Every moment since I have returned home I am thinking of our Soldiers not only in Kuwait, but also across the globe. I will NEVER forget the Soldiers I was so honored to meet, nor will I forget the honor, integrity, and loyalty each one of them possess as they continue to protect our freedom each and every day.

God Bless our troops!

Xo-Dani

ForExtra photos again – enjoy!

MSG Gaberiel

Farewell Kuwait

So much to do…So little time

Hi Eagles fans!

Since the Eagles football season is over, you may have thought us Cheerleaders are just twiddling our thumbs until August for the Pre-Season.  That is 100% a misconception.  All of us Cheerleaders have full time jobs, or are full time students.  For instance, I’m the public accountant of the group.  So while the Eagles “busy season” may be over, I’m ramping up for my other “busy season”.  Yup, with December 31, 2011 passing by all too quickly, that means its time to get those year-end financial statements done, and to file those taxes for good old Uncle Sam.

By the end of January, I’m busy going out on audits, not too much tax work has begun to come in through our office.  Forms from the IRS are still being updated daily, so my tax work won’t really start until mid February.  That being said, audits aren’t waiting on updated forms from the IRS, so were out and about at different clients.

That’s usually enough work to keep someone busy for 40-50 hours a week (that’s just during January of course..Come February, March and April its more like 55-60 hours a week).  Since rehearsal have been limited, and work isn’t extremely busy yet, I’ve used my “spare” time to study for the CPA exam.  I’m currently studying for audit, and have to say I feel confident in passing it this time around (yes, I failed it the first time….not enough time was devoted to my studies as there should have been, not surprising).  However, if in about 6 week you don’t see a post about me passing the exam, then assume I didn’t and don’t bring it up. Thanks!

Now the fun part, I get a few days away from my study books and the office, and get to go with some of the other ladies on the team to Mobile, Alabama for the College Senior Bowl.  Although before I can go I need to pack and do laundry, which have both fallen by the waist-side between working and studying and rehearsals.  So it may be time to get my life in order before I leave.

I’ll be sure to share more about the trip when we get back. In the meantime, check out the game on NFL Network on Saturday, January 28 at 3pm(CST).

HEY EAGLES FANS!

Sorry its been so long, it feels like forever!! So I actually just got home from my very last rehearsal of the season.  I am sad to see it end, but at the same time happy for the much-needed break.  We have about a month and a half off until auditions for the new squad starts up.  This does sound like a long time; however, it goes by super fast.  This is the time where I take the long hours spent for the football season and spend them in the most-loved placed in the world, the GYM!  Each year we still have to audition with the other beautiful, talented women, in hopes of keeping our spot on the squad.  It would seem like it would get easier as the years go on, it’s actually the complete opposite.  So like the other future women looking forward to the auditions in March, I also will be working extremely hard, making sure I am 100% ready, both mentally and physically.

At an Eagles Game this past season.

Now we were officially done the season in the beginning of January which is also when our practices concluded.  Despite the early end to the football season, we still do have one more game to cheer for before the official end of the cheerleader season.  If you haven’t heard yet, the Eagles Cheerleaders are making the trip down to Mobile, Alabama, where 21 of us will be cheering at the annual Senior Bowl.  We will be cheering on the North and South to see who will win this years game.  We will be leaving Thursday morning, bright and early, and returning home Sunday.  While we are there we will be doing many appearances in anticipation of the game that will be played on Saturday afternoon.  This is the first time the Eagles Cheerleaders are appearing at the Senior Bowl, so it is a very exciting time for all of us and I can’t wait to go.  This will also be my first time visiting the state of Alabama and supposedly the weather there now is amazing.  I personally enjoy high 60’s low 70’s instead of this freezing, snowy weather that we are having now.

Along with getting ready for the trip this weekend, I started my spring semester of my junior year at West Chester University.  I have been working hard for the past year so I could finally declared my major.  I officially started my major classes and I’m ecstatic!!  When I first came to West Chester University I was a Nutrition Major which I did enjoy, but I decided that it wasn’t the right pick for me as a career and began the process of switching to Marketing.  Same as last semester, I have classes only two days a week.  Every Tuesday and Thursday for the next 16 weeks, I will be sitting in lecture halls from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. working towards my degree in Marketing.  Today was my first day of classes and I’m actually excited to get the semester started.  Now we just went over the syllabus today in all my classes so the actually learning didn’t begin, but they all seem interesting which will help keep me awake through the long hours.  I am a little behind in the major because I switched so late, but I planned it all out and I will still graduate on time; I am actually in the process of looking for an internship for this summer.

"I've learned that your college friends become kind of family, you eat together, you take naps together, fight, laugh, cry, and do absolutely nothing together until you can't remember how you ever lived your life without them in the first place."

Well it’s getting pretty late and I still need to finish packing and get some beauty sleep, so I will talk to you guys next week when I get back from Mobile.  I will give you all the details from the trip and hopefully continue the journey to Kuwait that I have been taking all of you on.  GOODNIGHT

Until Next Time…

xoxoDanielle

Bullies and Their Victims

Last week a grammar school boy nearby committed suicide from being bullied.  This has been ongoing problem that is getting some well deserved attention.  Victims of bullies are afraid to go to school; spend time away from school in fear over what’s coming up the next day; and often have health problems.  Be it boy or girl, they should come to parents and faculty members.  Especially parents must be careful and not automatically brand their victim/children as a coward, sissy, or weakling.  Being assertive is not the same thing confronting a bully.

Concerning ourselves only with harassed students is like a opening the window and turning up the heat.  We have to address the bullies themselves.  They may have mental problems; be abused or neglected at home; have learning disabilities; or perhaps are just afraid.  Before resorting to extreme measures, I think school officials should look into the background of each person constantly bullying.  Faculty and staff have stated they do not have time or staff for this.  For that I say, use this as a example in your budget requests.

Most importantly, bullying involves all parents, faculty, and students. Parents have to be firm in telling their kids not befriend the bully in any way.  Don’t regard being in their circle as a sort of status symbol.  One day that bully will no doubt turn on them.  Don’t lecture bullies on their conduct and the damage they are doing.   They are well aware of both.  This preaching approach only gives them the attention they crave.  Hopefully, some students will  befriend the  victim and all students should ignore the bully.  If all students isolate them, the bully will feel the rejection and disgust.

Finally, remember all of have been bullies at one time or another.

Busy as a Bee

Hi Eagles Fans!

Countdown to SENIOR BOWL……less than a week away! As you know and am sure you have read on Philalphiaeagles.com, us cheerleaders are headed to cheer in Alabama for the senior bowl and I know I mentioned it in my previous blog, however I am so excited about it and really looking forward to our time there. Since we are in the off season, we haven’t been rehearsing as much as usual so it will be a great trip where we get to spend time together, keep up with our dancing and hopefully soak up some sun and higher temperatures in the South. There still is a lot to do between now and when we leave so I am trying to take it day-by-day.

This has been one crazy busy week for me with work and such. I modeled some great Vera Bradley handbags all day yesterday and had a ball. My mom actually works for the company, so I have grown up with these bags which made me feel right at home even when I was at work! Tomorrow brings new challenges as I will be modeling a mattress..not sure just yet as to what I will be doing, but I am looking forward to being able to lie down and relax! Just one of the perks of my job I suppose haha. Later tonight though, I will be in for some PJ modeling followed by a makeup show, so as you can see, I am doing all sorts of things!

On the home front though, wedding planning is going smoothly as is our newest home decor project! I am totally an interior designer at heart and have been busy purchasing some new decor for our house to match our new…reclaimed wood wall! Jonathan found these amazing slabs of old barn wood and has been working hard everyday placing them on a wall in our house and above the fireplace to transform our house into a real rustic oasis! It looks amazing so far and I am really excited to see how it turns out. Plus, it feels great using recycled material  in creative ways to design our house. Here is a photo of one of the walls thus far…

On another note, my latest quote of the day seems to be that “planning a wedding is a full time job”. Between that and actual work I am one busy bee! A lot of it is fun, don’t get me wrong, but what I am really looking forward to is the actual day when we can enjoy all of our hard work and relax! The good news is that it is fast approaching so I am getting excited.

Well, it is time for me to run, sorry for the short blog but I am in between shows and have to get ready. I hope you all tune in and watch the senior bowl and cheer for your favorite team. Until next week, enjoy the sunshine and have a fabulous weekend!

Xoxo,

Tracey

Bomb squad, a BBQ and a Bradley

Greetings Eagles fans,

Happy Wednesday to you all! I hope your week is off to a phenomenal start and you had a chance to watch some of the NFL play-off games over the weekend. There were quite some incredible wins over the weekend and I can’t wait to see which two teams will be playing in the super bowl!

Now, to continue telling you about my amazing journey to Kuwait…

Since we had been staying at Camp Arifjan for the duration of our trip, no travel time was necessary Thursday morning, so we decided to fill our time with a hobby very near and dear to all of our hearts – SHOPPING! At Camp Arifjan there is a huge PX where we were able to shop for T-shirts for our families and friends. There were also a few shops owned by locals who sold trinkets and souvenirs. Prior to shopping, our security team told us to “barter” with the shop owners to try and get a better price. I decided to take a whirl at it and was able to purchase glass camels for my family members as well as camel key chains for my squad members without burning a hole in my pocket. After our successful shopping trip, we took a ride to the other side of the base to visit the EOD or “bomb squad”. As I said in my previous blog, we met a member of the EOD squad at the 5k run and he kindly invited us to tour their facility. EOD stands for Explosive Ordnance Disposal. The EOD squad are specialists trained to defuse improvised explosive devices or IED’s which have been the largest cause of casualties during the Iraq war.

One of the EOD "bomb squad" robots

Upon our arrival, we were immediately welcomed with open arms by the EOD Soldiers and robots! The robots are utilized in defusing IED’s. They vary in size and are a mind-blowing piece of technology. We were given the opportunity to control the robots, which was sort of like playing a very realistic video game. Not only did we get to operate the robots, but they also allowed me to try on the bomb suit. This incredible suit protects Soldiers if an explosive was to detonate. I was informed Soldiers have 2 minutes to get out of the suit before their skin would be burned. They challenged me to get out of the suit in 2 minutes which I was able to complete, but I was down to the last few seconds. I was absolutely blown away by the knowledge and courage these soldiers possess and it is their heroic efforts, which has saved so many other Soldiers from injury or death. After trying on the bomb suit, Maggie (an EOD Specialist from Montgomery Alabama) invited us to the explosive room where they have a collection of deactivated explosives. They had everything from grenade launchers, to land mines, to everyday objects, which were made to be explosives. The room was fascinating and we all felt so lucky to have had the chance to see it. After touring the entire facility, the EOD squad informed us they had a barbecue waiting for us. They cooked us hamburgers, hotdogs, and had all kinds of snacks for us. Here we are in the middle of Kuwait and these soldiers went out of their way to cook for us. Another moment of the trip, when I was so touched I can’t even begin to describe it with words. During the barbecue, we were able to sit down and hear their stories. Maggie from Alabama had the 6 of us rolling on the floor laughing with both her stories and jokes. I will never forget her sense of humor and her incredible ability to make anyone laugh. While talking with the Soldiers, they all mentioned how different this deployment has been from others because for the first time, they had some “down time” as opposed to other deployments where they were constantly on missions in Iraq. Like the Soldiers in the command center, these Soldiers never had the opportunity to meet entertainment groups, so we felt incredibly honored and grateful to have the chance to perform for them. At the end of the barbecue they presented us with EOD “bomb squad” coins, which has become one of my most prized possessions. It is distinctly different from the other coins we had received and I feel SO incredibly lucky to have one!

Both of the EOD robots

How they control the robots

Suiting up

Ready to roll in the "bomb suit"

Holding a grenade launcher

Standing on a land mine

Immediately after our visit with the EOD squad, we drove to the other side of Camp Arifjan to the Armored Unit. Here we were able to see all of the equipment, which had been pulled out of Iraq. There were rows of MRAPS, Tanks, Trucks, and all other sorts of military equipment. This must have been our lucky day, because we were invited to not only tour some tanks, but RIDE in them. This was probably one of the most exciting experiences in my life! The 6 of us split up, 3 of us touring one tank and 3 of us touring another. Danielle, Jess, and I toured a Bradley. The Bradley Fighting Vehicle is a fully armored, fully tracked vehicle designed to carry Mechanized Infantry into close contact with the enemy. If that wasn’t exciting enough, the driver of our tank was a HUGE Eagles fan. Alexis was from NJ and was ecstatic to meet us! The three of us each took turns riding in the tank. They took the tank out onto a sand track, where we got to experience the speed of the Bradley. I have to admit, I thought it would be a rough ride, but it rode smoother than I ever could have anticipated. Danielle, Jess, and I joked that we need a Bradley to drive to and from practices to avoid dealing with aggressive drivers Touring the armored unit was amazing and I will never ever forget the exhilaration I got from riding in the tank!

Looking out at some of the equipment

Eagles fan Alexis and I

Riding in the tank!

The 6 of us with Alexis

Following our visit to the armored unit, we were taken to the C-FLACC where we met a 2 Star General and had a meet and greet with the Soldiers. This was another incredible opportunity, because we had to get special access passes to even step foot in the building. We felt incredibly privileged to have had the opportunity to visit. Later, we had another meet and greet but this meet and greet was very special because it was with a Philadelphia National Guard Unit. They were so excited to meet us and we were equally excited to meet them. It was such an incredible feeling to be surrounded by fellow Philadelphians thousands of miles away from home.

Before long, it was time for our show at Camp Arifjan. We headed over to Zone 6 to rehearse on the stage and get dressed and prepped for our show. We were incredibly excited for this show, because all of the Soldiers we had met over the week were going to be there. Again, we had an incredible show with an amazing turn out. Hundreds of Soldiers came out to see us and we had the time of our lives performing for them. As usual, immediately following the show, we had a meet and greet. Something about this meet and greet really hit me though. We had been at the meet and greet for almost an hour and had seen hundreds of Soldiers; we were probably 300 soldiers in, when a Solider walked up and said “I don’t have a camera to take a photograph with you, but I wanted to wait in line just to say Thank You”. This man had waited over an hour, just to come up and say thank you. This moment still brings tears to my eyes. I have had moments in my life before which were memorable, but this is a moment I will never ever forget. That one Soldier changed my life. I am forever moved by his simple, but life changing words. I never could have imagined the words “Thank You” having such an impact on me. Later that evening, our MWR tour personnel told us they projected about 800 soldiers came to see us that night. 800 soldiers, how amazing? Following our meet and greet we had a pizza party to celebrate another perfect ending to another perfect day.

Check back later this week for our final and incredibly exciting day in Kuwait.

E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!

X0-Dani

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE EXTRA PHOTOS!

788th EOD

My 788th EOD "bomb squad" coin

The 6 of us with the tank

Which word doesn’t belong: Ladies, Cookies, Talking, and Football?

Hey Eagles Fans!

I realize its been a tough weekend, not being able to watch the Eagles in the playoffs.  Last weekend, a few of us ladies got together for a Cookie Exchange.  We might be the only group of ladies you know, that have the playoff games on the TV during the day.  Sadly, no Eagles to watch, but we still LOVE football and enjoy getting into the post-season just like everyone else.

It was my first ever cookie exchange, and I had know idea what to expect.  I had to make sure I put some effort in to it.  You may or may not know, that I am extremely competitive.  So naturally, I didn’t want to show up with the worst tasting/looking cookies they’d ever seen.  So I found a creative looking cookie on line, which made “Stain glass Cookies”.  Basically, you cut out the center of the cookie, and put any type of crushed hard candy in the center.  Now, I’m no Betty Crocker, so I had Andrew help me out with it.  Actually, I basically made him do all the hard work: crush the candies, roll the dough, and re roll it out again, and again, and again.  He couldn’t get done baking with me soon enough.  He’s reward for being such a great helper: He could watch all the Football games, uninterrupted.

At Stephanie’s house the next day for the exchange, I felt like I’d seen her place before.  Then it dawned on me, I recognized it from her Esquire, Me in My Place Shoot . We all had a great time at her place, we got to catch up, since we haven’t seen each other in awhile because we haven’t had any rehearsal lately.  The best part of the day, hands down, was when we broke into teams and played Catch Phrase.  Again, my competive self came out, and of course the team I was on dominated! But even if we didn’t win, I would have still said it was a blast!  We could NOT stop laughing.  If you haven’t played this game, its a must!  I think we even convince Tracey to bring it to the Senior Bowl trip so we can give it a go with the rest of the team coming to Alabama at the end of the month.

Everyone’s cookies were great, we got to bring home a bunch, but when I brought them back to my house, they didn’t last long.  I think the entire box of cookies was gone by the next day.  That was all thanks to my parents, who “just wanted to try them”.  Oh well, I’m glad someone could enjoy them!

Stay warm everyone!

Go Eagles!

Love Michelle

Fun Activities and Big News!!!

     Hey Eagles Fans!  I feel like I have a lot to catch you up on!  The past 2 weeks have been packed with fun events, since I had 2 weeks off from work for Winter Break. 

     Let’s back up to New Year’s Day at the Eagles vs Redskins Game.  This was a very special day for me, because it was announced that I was the Eagles Cheerleader who was selected to go to Pro Bowl!  I can honestly say that I’m still in shock!  I’m so happy that my mom, boyfriend, aunt, and uncle were all able to attend that game to watch as Swoop came onto the sidelines to put a flower lei around my neck and the announcement was made that I would be going to Hawaii to perform in the Pro Bowl!  It is truly an honor to be selected out of the 38 beautiful and talented women on our team.  Any one of us would have been deserving to go, so I feel extremely privileged to be selected to go to Pro Bowl to represent our team.  I leave for Hawaii on January 23rd and spend the week leading up to the Pro Bowl rehearsing, taking part in charity events, and participating in numerous activities for the fans.  In the meantime, I have been working extremely hard to learn all of the dances that we have to know before we arrive.  I was given a DVD of 13 dances, and I have been giving myself long rehearsals every day to make sure I know every dance.  I actually just finished learing the last dance today!  With 10 days left until I leave, I feel that I’m right on track.  I now have the next 10 days to practice the dances and know them really well.  Wish me luck!!  In case you missed it, check out the image that was on the homepage of philadelphiaeagles.com! 

      After the big game, I wanted to continue to make the most of my break from work, so my boyfriend and I took a short trip to Vermont.  It was actually his Christmas present from me, because I thought it would be tons of fun to get away for a couple of days and enjoy each other’s company during the holiday season.  We stayed at an adorable bed and breakfast in West Dover, Vermont, which is only about 1 mile from Mount Snow.  Our room at the bed and breakfast was adorable and even had its own fireplace.  The breakfasts were absolutely delicious too!  (A little fact about me: breakfast is my absolute favorite meal of the day, and I could swap every meal with breakfast food )  During our 2-day trip, we went ice skating on an outdoor rink, went snowmobiling at Mount Snow, and I even treated myself to a wonderful massage!  It was tons of fun and very relaxing.  I chose not to try skiing for the first time, since I didn’t want to risk getting any injuries a month before Pro Bowl!  Even without skiing, we kept busy with other fun (and safe) activities haha.  Check out some of the photos from our trip!

Jesse and I at Mount Snow (of course I'm supporting the Eagles!)

We had the whole outdoor rink to ourselves!

Snowmobiling at Mount Snow! I had a blast riding on the back while Jesse drove!

 So, remember how I told you that we got my mom, sister, and brother-in-law tickets to see Mary Poppins on Broadway?  Well, we went into New York City last Sunday to see the show, and it was FABULOUS!!  It was extremely entertaining, and the performers were incredible.  It was such a nice way to spend my last day off. 

my mom, sister, and me before the show

     Well, now I’m back to work and working extra hard at the gym to prepare for Pro Bowl.  I feel very motivated, and I want to prepare myself in every way possible to make sure my Pro Bowl experience is a success   Be sure to check back to for updates!

Jen

Tears and cheers

Hey Eagles fans,

I hope you are all having a great week and are staying committed to your New Years Resolutions just as I am. As I told you in my previous blog, I started working hard at the gym and I recently did a training session with a personal trainer. He totally kicked my butt, and I was sore for days, but as they say “no pain, no gain” and I’m sure my hard work will pay off. Even though we are in the off-season, it is important we still do appearances and stay in tip top shape. I am looking forward to some of my upcoming appearances and having the opportunity to see the ladies. Over the past 2 years, these women have become like sisters and I already really miss seeing them. Speaking of the other women, I want to congratulate Jen on being selected as our 2011 Pro Bowl Cheerleader. Jen and I are both 2^nd year members of the squad and I couldn’t be more proud of her. I know she will represent our organization in an incredible way and I absolutely can’t wait to hear about her travels!

Speaking of travels, in my last blog I left off at the end of our second incredible day in Kuwait. Our third day started out with breakfast at the D-FAC where as usual we mingled with Soldiers while grabbing a bite to eat. Following breakfast, we departed for Camp Buehring located in Northern Kuwait. Camp Buehring is named after LTC Charles H. Buerhring who was killed in Baghdad in 2003. The base was most often used for military troops heading into Iraq. Camp Buehring is also home to the Udairi Range and Udairi Air Field. As we were driving onto the base, we immediately noticed the number of tanks and helicopters guarding the border of Iraq. During this time, the last few convoys were coming out of Iraq and we were also informed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dempsey was visiting Camp Buehring to acknowledge the end of the war in Iraq, so as you can imagine, security was extra tight.  When we finally got on base, COL Rodgers and LTC Thomas warmly welcomed us.

Welcome to Camp Buehring

Looking out at Udairi Air Field

During our commander’s call meeting, COL Rodgers showed us a PowerPoint on Camp Buehring and also gave his rendition on the introduction of military coins. COL Rodgers told us one story, which really left an impact on the 6 of us. He explained to us he has fought many battles, traveled to many countries, and done many things in the military, but the one thing he truly remembers about his years of service are the people who took the time to visit. He told us that Jay Leno had come to visit the troops and it was a time when all of the Soldiers were in need of laughter. He said the impact that Jay Leno had on him was the same impact we would have on the Soldiers and they would remember this for the rest of their lives. We were so touched by his story and were beyond grateful he shared it with us. After the commanders call, we had to prep for our show. Rather than a nighttime show, we had a daytime show at Camp Buehring, which was a nice change of pace. Once again, the show went wonderfully. We had another amazing crowd and we were later told there were at least 800 Soldiers in attendance. I still have a hard time wrapping my head around the fact 800 Soldiers took the time out of their day to come and see our show. Following the show we had a meet and greet where we could individually thank all the Soldiers who came out to see our show. We ended up being a little later for our next visit because we wanted to make sure we got to meet each and every Soldier who came out to see us that day.

Warmly welcomed by Soldiers!

After the meet and greet, we changed and went directly to the Udairi Air Field where we were met by Apache Helicopter pilots from the North Carolina National Guard. Not only did we get to the meet the pilots, but also we actually got to sit in an Apache Helicopter. Apache’s are attack helicopters, which seat two soldiers. One is in charge of navigating the helicopter, while the other focuses on attacking the enemy when necessary. Touring the Apache was such a privilege and it was an experience I will never forget. After touring the Apache, we visited the Navy Medics who are in charge of transporting injured Soldiers. They usually don’t have the opportunity to meet entertainment groups because they are unable to leave the unit in case of emergencies. It was great to be able to make their day even if it was only for a short amount of time.

An Apache Helicopter

Jess and I sitting in the Apache

The 6 of us with the Apache Helicopter Pilots!

If visiting the Air Field wasn’t exciting enough, we also had the opportunity to visit the Udairi training village. The training village is where they train the Soldiers for upcoming missions. We had the opportunity to participate in an artillery simulation.  The simulator is set up so you can practice shooting at a large screen. They provide real life war like situations where you have to follow the rules of engagement ( ROE are set rules which state when and where a s Soldier may fire, return fire, etc.) as well as practicing your accuracy skills. This was my first time holding a firearm and even though it was a simulator, it was hard work. I was convinced I hit my target with brilliant accuracy, however it appeared I could really use some work. It was also extremely enlightening to try and grasp how difficult it is to make split second decisions under the rules of engagement – the wrong decision could cost you your life or that of your fellow Soldier or cause an international incident. Regardless, it was an amazing experience and it felt amazing to train just like the Soldiers do.

The artillery simulator

The simulator screen

After the training village, we were off to the command center. The command center was in charge of watching over all operations in Iraq. Before we were allowed to go into the command center, the room had to be “sanitized” meaning all confidential information had to be taken off the computers before we were allowed to tour the facility. Upon talking with the soldiers in the command center, we learned the Soldiers work 15-16 hour days and are not permitted to have visitors. Many of these Soldiers were on their 4^th or 5^th tour of the Middle East. All of these soldiers were subject matter specialists and I was surprised to learn many of them had volunteered or asked to be deployed over and over again. The six of us were so touched by these Soldiers that we decided to bring our entertainment to their control room. Due to working 15-16 hour days, not one of these soldiers had the opportunity to attend a show. As I previously said, this was the 4^th or 5^th deployment for some of these Soldiers and they never had a chance to see a show. This really struck a chord with us and we thought the least we could do was perform for them. They were so touched by our generosity and cheered wildly as we tried our best to perform our show in their small quarters. I will never forget as we were walking out of the command center, I turned to Paige who had tears rolling down her cheeks. She was so touched by the Soldiers and we all realized we really were making a difference in these Soldiers’ lives. What we didn’t take into account was how much the Soldiers would change our lives.

The control room

Following the command cell visit, we got dinner in the D-FAC where we had the incredible opportunity to briefly meet General Dempsey. After finishing dinner it was time to head home, but before we set off for Camp Arifjan we were graced with another amazing opportunity. It turned out that American Idol winner Jordin Sparks was at Camp Buehring and was willing to meet us. This was the perfect ending to another perfect day in Kuwait.

The 6 of us with Jordin Sparks

I absolutely can’t wait to share the rest of our journey with you and I hope you will check back again later this week.

E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!

Xo-Dani

Lots of MRAPS!

Cheer’s to the New Year and to the Military!!

Welcome to the new year Eagles Fans!!  I hope your first week into 2012 was amazing, especially coming off of that awesome win last Sunday.  Sad to say Sunday’s game against the Washington Redskins was our last game of the season and I can’t believe it came and went so fast.  Every end is a new beginning and since our season has concluded, we do get some rest from the crazy, hectic schedule that comes with the football season.

Today I did an amazing appearance right here in Northeast Philadelphia, where I have lived and grown up my entire life.  Me and

The gift we received from the cheerleaders

three other cheerleaders traveled to Excel Academy North High School, where we got to meet and chat with the schools newly founded cheerleading squad.  These young women were unbelievable, it was definitely one of my top appearances I have done as a Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader.  When we first arrived we were given a performance of a few cheers from the squad and they were so good, I couldn’t believe that this was only their first year with the squad!  We then all sat in a circle and talked for about an hour about all different topics.  At appearances throughout the season we get to meet all the fans and talk to them but to get the chance to really get on a personal level like we did today was unforgettable.  The girls were so gracious they even gave us each a gift before we left which was so thoughtful and amazing.  Not only were the women on the squad incredible but the faculty and the actually school was also amazing.  Excel Academy North is an alternative high school for students who have come from rough backgrounds and were on the verge of dropping out or have started their own family already.  This high school welcome’s everyone with open arms and strives for teaching young adolescents the importance of life.  We all had so much fun with all the girls and did not want to leave at all, we could have stayed there all day.

The last time I blogged I started to show you all a glimpse of my trip to Kuwait.  Now were on to Day 2 of the journey.

Fernando, The Philadelphia Eagles Fan!!!

We started the day off by all waking up around 6:30 am and traveling to our first stop which was the Colonel Robinson’s 325th Combat Support Hospital.  As we arrived LTC Medd greeted us and gave us a tour of the hospital, where we were able to meet the entire hospital staff and most of the patients.  The one patient that stood out to all of us was Fernando, who was actually born and raised in Philadelphia.  Being a huge Eagles Fan he was so excited that we were there and we all were so happy to sit down and spend some time with him.  We actually got to spend more time with him a few days later when he was all better.  He was able to come to one of our shows and meet and greet at one of the other bases.  It was so amazing to hear that he felt better and to see a familiar face from earlier in the week.  As we left the hospital we were all given one of our first coins that we received that week in a the form of a handshake.  Next stop was our commander’s call, which happened at every base we visited.  During the call we got to meet with the commander of the base, learn all about the base, what they do and ask any questions we had. This was the first one of the week so it was all new and exciting and we got to learn so much information.  LTC Baurer explained the meaning behind the military coins and shared his amazing stories he has experienced throughout his many year with the military.  We also had a lesson about the country of Kuwait and all the military bases.  The call was ended by LTC Baurer presenting us with a certificate of excellence which was a shock to all of us and will be remembered by all 6 of us forever.

We continued the day with our first meet and greet which we are all used to because that is what we do at all of our appearance; however, this meet and greet was way different then all the others I have attended.  We were told to expect a large number of soldiers, but none of us could have imagined the crowd that collected to see us.  We walked into a room full of soldiers and all looked around at each other with amazement and shock.  For them to take time out of their day to come meet us was astonishing and getting to meet all of them one by one was an amazing experience and opportunity given to us.  I saw myself pausing for a minute, just glancing around at where I really was and taking it all in.  It was so surreal that I was in the Middle East, in Kuwait, surrounded by hundred of Military members, men and women that give so much up for me to live a normal life in safety.  You truly don’t realize it until you see it first hand, the trip truly touch me and will never be forgotten.  It was an honor meeting everyone over their and has had an impact on my life in so many different ways.  After the hour was up we took off to the next base, Camp Patriot, where we performed our first show of the week!

At the Hospital

Our first coin we received

We drove for about 45 minutes before arriving at Camp Patriot where we started the visit in another commander’s call.  Camp Patriot is both an American and Kuwaiti military base and is mostly used for training Kuwaiti soldiers for battle.  As we exited the bus we were greeted by SGT Benson, SGT Eder and SGT Almary, a.k.a. “Snake”.  They greeted us with opened arms, took us on a tour of the base and then to the commander’s call.  During the tour we got a look at the living facilities of the base and their base pet which was a turtle names Brutus.  It was so cute that they had a pet and they even had a little bio posted outside of his pond which stated that his hobbies consisted of swimming around his pond and laying on the rocks in the sun.  Also, he aspires to be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle and hopes to one day stand beside the action heroes.   He was unfortunately shy the day we visited so we did not get the chance to see him, but had heard multiple stories about him which were hilarious.

On our way to Camp Patriot!

What is interesting about Camp Patriot is that it also serves as a Naval Base.  While we were visiting the base we got the chance to have a tour of the Robert Smalls which is a Logistics Support Vessel operated by the U.S Army.  Prior to the visit we were all unaware that the army had any boats and that the primary mission of the army watercraft is to provide maritime logistical and rescue support to U.S. and allied forces.  The Robert Smalls is a very rare ship and only has one other ship like it, which is its sister ship and is located in Pearl Harbor.  As we toured the ship we found that it was a lot larger than what we had expected.  In a previous appearance I have done with the Philadelphia Eagles, I had the chance to travel to New York during Fleet Week and board the USS Iwo Jima which to my surprise was a lot different from the Robert Smalls.  The USS Iwo Jima was probably just as large but while walking through the ship they had very large cargo spaces and was very confined in all the other sections.  The Robert Smalls had the cargo space outside and the inside of the ship was equipped with its own hospital and kitchen and was very spacious compared to the USS Iwo Jima, especially in all the hallways.  During our tour we were informed that a “secret mission” was occurring so we were not able to get any pictures unfortunately, but it was super cool that we got to see one of the missions happening during the removal of the troops from Iraq.

The Robert Smalls Army Ship

From the tour of the Robert Smalls it was show time!!  We had about an hour and a half to eat and get performance ready.  As our first show, we were all extremely nervous, yet excited at the same time.  We all had worked so hard practicing and making the the show perfect and didn’t know if the crowd would enjoy it as much as we did.

Well Eagles Fans, I feel like this blog has gotten a little to long so I can’t wait until my next blog where I can reveal the outcome of our very first performance over in Kuwait!!

Until then Eagles Fans, enjoy the rest of the week and make sure to stick to your New Year’s Resolution!!!  YOU CAN DO IT!

xoxoDanielle