Back in the Gate

I just got back from a little tour around a rather enormous northern Iraqi city, and have a great story to tell. Haven't slept in a few days, and a shave would be good, but there is still another leg to go and I need to focus on that at the moment. However I wanted to let everyone know that things are fine, and I'm in good spirits.

For Sale:

For Sale: Small, numerous bedroom house in northern Iraq. Interior is non-finished plywood with spraypainted accents, flooring is authentic 3rd rate Indian tile. No central air conditioning, rather 12 window mounted A/C units. Electricity provided by diesel/electric generator. No indoor plumbing, 2 porta-potties located in driveway. Must provide own military escort for showings. $500 US or best offer.

Safety

I would like everyone to know that I am alive and well. Updates (and free time, for that matter) come at a considerable premium, but know that I am recording much of life here and will eventually post everything that I have and will see here.

Many people keep telling me to 'be safe' in correspondence of various sorts. While I am deeply and genuinely glad that there are those out there who care enough to worry about me, please refrain from using this phrase. I am without the ability to 'be safe' because simply living anywhere in this whole country is inherently dangerous. My occupation makes it more dangerous, another reason why I wear 40+ pounds of body armor every time I leave the base, and move around in armored vehicles. That being said, I have an elaborate list of those who have sent cards and packages, and I will be sending letters and thank yous to everyone.