Barracks Hallway

When I first looked down this hallway where I would be living, I thought how in the world am I going to live like this. But, it's amazing what you can do...especially when you have no choice. My room is way down on the left. There are three to a room usually so in this hallway lives about 75 people competing for five VERY small showers, sinks and bathroom facilities.

Office

Here's one section of our office. That's my desk in the back right corner. We have another room, too. Here's the window I stare out of when I sit at my desk. Nice to have a window!

Oops. See caption below...

Special Photo

This photo was hung in a tunnel on the way to the American Embassy. I passed by it almost every day in the summer when I walked from our base to the American Embassy (about 10 minutes in a protected and safe area) and cooled off in the Embassy pool at the end of a long day. Yes, I'm not ashamed to say I went to a swimming pool in a war zone. This photo shows a man proud of his small shop. I love his slight grin and the pride he shows in this photo.

New Desk

Doesn't take much to make you happy in a war zone. I was thrilled when I moved to this desk in the corner by a window and had my own phone on the desk! No more walking 100 yards and hoping a phone was available to call my dad and sister. True bliss! Moved to this desk around the end of October. We're supposed to get new furniture (Herman Miller) in mid-December and that should be my last change in office movement, etc. before I leave. But I'm staying in the corner by the window!

Me and the General

On Sunday, 7 November, GEN David Petreaus had a photo shoot for everyone at the base. About 300 people showed up to take advantage of his thoughtfulness. It's been an honor to serve with this man and seeing him almost every day. I predict his next assignment will be Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and down the road, maybe even a run for president. You heard it here first folks!

Bye Dad---see you in 5 months

Got to add this one to the blog--Taylor and Tim as Tim leaves to go back to Afghanistan (very early) on a Sunday morning after his 2 week leave home.