as we were packing for iraq last feb., everyone was curious of just how cold the winters were here in iraq. because space was limited, we were all looking for things to leave behind. cold weather gear was of big question. i can't tell you how many people said leave that gear because it didn't really get that cold in the desert. man am i glad i didn't listen to those idiots. the past few nights were bone chillin. probably not “that” cold, in relations to carolina winter temps, but the wind makes up the difference. if you are sand and sun bound, bring it.

ramadan is over now, i think. it seems like the past few days have all been the “last day” of ramadan. i'm not sure if anyone really knows but allah. i do know that they finish the holiday with a week long celebration, as they should. i imagine fasting, no smokes and celibacy, for a month straight, takes a toll on a man. action was a little more than normal, but not as crazy as i expected. it was neat to see the towns people this past week as they all donned their sundays finest, or should i say saturdays finest, and bounced around town like it was christmas. many of them sported western attire, which is rare as far north as i am. gotta love the holiday season.

time is drawing near. hopefully we have no more than a month left until the pilgrimage home begins. getting our things inspected by customs officers is now the big push. they have taken over the slot for public enemy number one.

well back to christmas with bing crosby. gotta have something to remind me of the outside world. love and miss all and hope to see you soon.

bc