Merry Christmas

I just said farewell to another shipmate; I watched LT Cadle step on the rhino and begin his journey home. It was a bittersweet moment to end an otherwise pretty upbeat week. Christmas spirit was definitely in the air here on the New Embassy Compound. By the 23rd, it was hard to pass someone on the sidewalk without getting a “Merry Christmas” and a smile, particularly from the State Department folks who did not officially have work from Christmas Eve through today. In our office, we amped up the holiday spirit by having two movie nights; just after eight pm, we fired up some popcorn and watched “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and “Elf.” And then on Christmas Eve we had a “Holiday Happy Hour and a Half” party.

Admittedly, I had something to do with organizing the party, but it was a group effort with all of us hoarding treats that came in by mail (thank you), and then combining them to create quite a spread for all of J9 and some special guests to enjoy. Two stations: hot chocolate/cider and sweet/savory were set-up with “A Christmas Story” playing on the big screen. Our centerpiece was a gingerbread house that my co-worker Jill’s daughter sent. It came in kit form, Jill and I spent a portion of Thursday afternoon putting it together and decorating it. We even had to overcome some structural engineering challenges, but overcome we did- fixing a cracked wall and a broken roof, and still managing to keep it all together! At the Happy Hour, Santa hats were abundant and I must say- it was a pretty cheerful environment considering all guests were far from home with loved ones on their mind. The evening was topped off by a visit from Santa and Mrs. Clause. Lots of pictures were taken in front of the Christmas tree, the same tree that CAPT Ahern so kindly left for me. After calls to home, I headed back to my CHU and opened the many packages surrounding my tree, with exception of those from Adam and the kids, and then happily sunk into bed.

I woke Christmas morning to find some lovely e-mails waiting in my box. Some reported seeing me on TV- turns out that the holiday greeting I made in November was played in radio form, and also aired on several evening news broadcasts. For a few days in November and December, the media folks set-up cameras and welcomed any passer-by to tape a holiday shout-out. Very few seemed to take them up on their offer but I was happy to give them a little business and appreciated the opportunity to say hello. I must say that I did not quite realize just how much play it would get!

Back to Christmas morning…after a leisurely morning I grabbed an quick bite to eat and headed to the turf field for our Holiday Bowl (now known as Motrin Bowl) for what I thought would be a fun game of flag football. And, it was fun, but it was a pretty hard hitting, highly contested game of flag football. I went in on defense, mostly trying to keep up with a player on the offense to block a pass. There was only one close call, I was outrun, but fortunately the ball was just out of reach of the receiver. My real shining moment came when my General and I collided as we both ran from opposite sides of the field to grab a flag of the quarterback who had decided to run up the middle. Neither of us got a flag, and I ended up taking the General’s nose to the top of my forehead. I don’t think anyone really knew or saw what happened, but I heard a horrible crack that I figured was either my head or his face. But I stayed standing and he went down, coming up with a bad bloody nose. Turns out I AM hard-headed! I stayed in for a couple more plays but that was the last drive for me! My fun meter was pegged with the realization that you could get really hurt playing flag football. The General is very tough though; after a short break he went back in for a few more plays. My team came out victorious, 7-0, but it was tense till the end.

Besides a sore spot on my forehead, the rest of the day was much more pleasant. I joined my boss and co-workers for Christmas dinner at the DFAC in the afternoon (Santa even made an appearance) and then late in the afternoon I was able to Skype with Adam, Noah, Amelia, my Mom and Adam’s Dad as they opened presents. It was a little blurry but I was just grateful to be there in some form! I headed back to the DFAC for another meal with the Navy crew later that evening and then finished the day watching “The Holiday” with a few friends. Adam and the kids spent their Christmas evening with the Jones family. So thank you to family and friends for all your efforts to make this holiday special for me, and for my family. When I think about the magnitude of your thoughtfulness, I feel very blessed.

So now, with Christmas just past, I look forward to 2011. I feel like I have cleared some emotional hurdles with the holidays behind, and in March I will head home for R&R (Rest and Relaxation). I am really excited to spend time with Adam and the kids, and for a chance to see friends too. So, on I continue, one week at a time…

Love,

Krista

Hug by Mail...

Early on I developed milestones for each day. They go like this: wake up and look forward to getting to work to check e-mail, look forward to lunch, look forward to mail call after lunch, look forward to calling home before the kids go to school, look forward to dinner, look forward to spin/workout and look forward to bed! I know, a lot of "looking forward" but I find that it makes the days go really fast. And, it is not all about what is next, I try hard to capture special moments and feel enjoyment in the present. I think of Jim and Pam from "The Office" taking mental pictures during their wedding and I try to do the same. Sometimes it is a really hearty laugh with my shipmates, or like today- playing flag football as helos flew over the field. I want to remember those times here, it definately beats focusing on the loneliness that comes with such a long seperation from family and friends.

I feel really connected to home but I miss physical connection. I had not really thought about that loss but it feels strange to not have a hug or get to hold a hand in so very long (although I have snagged a few good hugs as coworkers/friends depart.) So, I thank you for all the thoughtful cards, and packages that have been streaming in these past two weeks! Mailcall has been extra fun, and as I went through a box I received today filled with lovely cards and sweet packages from friends and neighbors, I felt a BIG hug of sorts- and I really appreciated it. The little packages have all been placed under my tree, they will stay there until Christmas day, they are a special "look forward to!" Hard to believe it is less than a week away. I feel like it was just last week that I was hugging the Thanksgiving Turkey outside the DFAC- on reflection that was a pretty desperate hug!

We receive the Armed Forces Network here, and there are many holiday salutes right now- consistently they offer special thanks for protecting our country, for our service overseas and to our families for their sacrifice during the holidays. In my small role here, it is hard to see how I am "protecting" you but I can absolutely relate to being seperated from what I hold dear- so I gratefully accept the warm wishes. But, I want to say thank you too. Thanks to family, friends, neighbors and even strangers for taking the time to think of me and my fellow soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. I know that your lives are full and filled with the ordinary things that make life hum along at home and it makes your efforts all the more touching.

Love,

Krista

Nine in a row for Navy!

I am a bit wiped again this week, but I will attribute it to a very late last night spent watching a sloppy, but effective, NAVY team BEAT ARMY! I made it to halftime before calling it a night. I felt fairly confident that Navy would come out on top and was happy to see the final score of 31-17 when I woke up this morning.

United States Forces-Iraq is an Army centric command, support is provided by the Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force but the majority of the senior leadership and troops are Army personnel. This past week we have endured good natured ribbing from our Army colleagues, and in our regular Commanding General brief yesterday, the Commander's Comments at the end consisted of two points. The first point was in reference to an earlier portion of the brief, the second point was "Beat Navy". So victory is sweet. I am fairly confident that in tomorrow's comments, the CG will offer a congratulations to us Navy folks, deservedly so!

Now for an update that is job related. It is raining! It has been a very dry fall for Northern Iraq. That can have very dire consequences for the winter crops, particularly wheat, and the overall water flow in the Tigris which affects downstream users. In passing to a "what's up" offered in the hall last week by my General, I offered "not much Sir, but it is very dry up North. We could use a rain dance." In return he did a pretty good moonwalk, especially for being on carpet. And what do you know- it is raining, pouring actually. Each drop feels like a gift. We won't know for a couple days how much rain they got up North for the farmers' fields, but rain here probably means snow in the Mountains of Northern Iraq and Turkey. And of course, when that snow melts in the spring, it will get added to the rivers and flow downstream where it is badly needed. So fingers crossed, or as the Iraqis say, inshallah(God willing), the rains will continue.

Back on the homefront the Christmas season is in full swing. I received a very enthusiastic review of Ballet Met's Nutcracker. Adam, Noah and Amelia, together with Adam's Mom Sharon and husband Tom, joined the Mattingly family last night to watch Georgia perform the starring role of Clara. I am sorry to have missed it but was delighted to hear how much they all enjoyed her performance. I also got to see the family Christmas tree, via Skype, all decorated and lit. Amelia "walked" me around the tree pointing out special ornaments of interest from years past. It looks beautiful!

Here in Baghdad, I am playing a new role as Santa's helper. I am putting my skills as a personal shopper to use, gently guiding coworkers anxious to send their wives something special for Christmas. It has been fun, and a great vicarious shopping experience for me! I had a little "Christmas Operation Station" open in the office, but with the mailing deadline passed, it is now closed- only online ordering at this point.

I wish you all a wonderful week. For you, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! And here in Iraq- let it rain, let it rain, let it rain!

Love

Krista

Christmas Cheer

December is here and it is starting to look a lot like Christmas on the NEC. On Thursday afternoon, the Ambassador "lit" the Christmas tree in the lobby of the Embassy, and then that evening, lights came on all over the NEC. We had watched the maintenance guys string lights for days in advance. It was kind of funny in a Christmas Vacation way, and kind of horrifying as a tax payer, to see the number of buildings they draped with icicle lights, heck, even the date palms are wrapped in lights. No one can accuse them of not trying to spread a little Christmas cheer!

I have also done some decorating. I put a sweet little tree in my CHU and even hung a little bouquet of bulbs. The office is decorated too, drawers of seasonal decorations were emptied and the office was quickly transformed. Trees and ornaments are up, lights line the cubicle walls and stockings have been hung. There are other signs too, like long lines at the Post Office as mailing deadlines loom. But the best touch so far has been receiving a thick envelope of cards from Mrs. Pharion's class at Amelia's school. The kids each sent me a card with their favorite "holiday thought". From building snowmen with siblings to drinking cocoa while snuggled with family by the tree- they were sweet and from the heart. I love them and have them on my desk, available to flip through anytime.

Not surprisingly, many choose the holidays for R&R so the number of people on the NEC seems to have thinned a bit. My State Department colleague has just returned after spending Thanksgiving at home and my Spin Instructor is currently on his R&R. Because of my stellar attendance record, he asked me to fill in for him while he is gone. I have really taken to leading the class and hope I can sub for him in the future, we have a few regulars and have even picked up a couple new students. Between Spin and the recent adoption of Saturday Game Night, I now have a few regularly scheduled non-work related breaks that should help keep me sane. Add a movie night here and there and life might be as close to normal as possible when so far away from family and friends.

I hope you enjoy and embrace your traditions this holiday; I am thinking of you at home with a satisfaction of knowing what I will get to take part in next year. And as Noah reminded me, I will be there in a way this year- he is planning a marathon skype session Christmas morning.

Certainly this year will be different but I continue to be so touched by the efforts of so many to ensure we know our time here is appreciated by those at home. Thank you.

Love,

Krista

Happy Thanksgiving

I celebrated another first in Iraq this past week- my first day off! My boss said he did not want to see us in the office on Thanksgiving and I was happy to oblige. Anticipating a full day of rest, I celebrated by staying up late reading on Wednesday evening. Have to say though, I regretted the choice as I dragged a bit on Thursday.

Nonetheless, I pulled myself out of bed, took a shower and put on the only authorized alternative to my uniform- my Navy issued sweatsuit. This is a sweatsuit that would not look a bit out of place in a very outdated Runner's World- the thing screams 80's. So much so, that EVERYONE feels the need to comment on the look. It's bad, particularly the pants. Still, I put it on and ventured out of my CHU to a mini turf field where an organizational flag football game was rumored to be taking place. It just seemed like an appropriate activity to start my Thanksgiving Day off with. It was a slightly crisp, especially for Baghdad, day with beautiful blue skies. The game was very fun to watch. The crowd of bystanders was quite animated, so much so that it was another reminder that fun is relative here. It really does not take much to be quality entertaiment on the NEC. But, relative or not, I really did enjoy the game.

After the game, I stopped by what we call the "Grab and Go" and picked up a mini-sandwich to tide me over until the big Thanksgiving Meal. Although the Dining Facility (DFAC) was offering two seatings, my group had decided on the the start of the later seating at four pm. After a few hours spent relaxing alone, I met up my fellow diners just before four. I came prepared with a placemat sent from my Mother in Law, Sharon. It did a great job covering up my plastic tray and impressed my dinner companions. In addition to bringing my placemat, I also brought a very special surprise for my fellow diners. Amelia's whole class had written letters to "soldiers" on Veteran's Day and I passed them out at dinner. We enjoyed reading them, and were all touched by the effort her class went to.

With one small exception, instant mashed potatoes, dinner was fabulous. Our DFAC deservedly takes pride in their cooking and the ambience they provide. We lingered over the meal, reminding ourselves that it was a special meal and should not be rushed. Still, we were not home, and that was something that could not be made up for. There was some reminiscing around the table about where Thanksgiving would normally be spent, and for me that meant at Adam's Grandma Williams. I knew what I was missing, all the traditional dishes, particularly my Father-in-Law's mashed potatoes and a Williams' Family classic- chicken and noodles. The kids both raved about the chicken and noodles, and pumpkin pie when I caught up with them the next day. Even if I could not be home, there is comfort in hearing about the familiar, and I am so glad they enjoyed the holiday.

On Friday it was back to work, but rather than the normal paperwork, the day was spent moving. We have had lots of reorganization going on, for me that has included a new boss, and now, a new cubicle. Amazing how much one can amass in four months! It was a good chance to tidy, and with a lot of people pitching in, the day had a satisfying spring cleaning feel. Saturday is my normal half day but having spent Thursday off, I lingered at the office a bit later than usual for a Saturday afternoon. I spent a bit of early Saturday night enjoying the game "Catch Phrase" (I think...) with a few officers and then headed back to my CHU to follow a bit of the OSU-Michigan game before going to bed at half-time. I was delighted to wake up and see that OSU had finished the game strong. With Adam flying, Noah and Amelia had joined Lisa and the Jones Family for the game and an eventual sleepover. Lisa was kind enough to send me their pre-game O-H-I-O! which I am also sharing with you.

It is late, so I am going to say good night for now. Thanks to all for your special holiday wishes and prayers. I am thankful for each and every one.

Love,

Krista

Saying Goodbye

This week wrapped up on a bittersweet note. My coworker Terry climbed on the super reinforced bus, commonly referred to as the Rhino, this evening to begin his journey back home. Terry is one of three Navy guys to head home this week. I will miss all of them, they really helped me settle in, and over lunches,dinners and shared laughs at work- have become friends. So I am a bit sad but also happy for them as they return to their "normal" lives. And in fact, their return home means I am getting closer to mine. Hard to believe, but tomorrow I hit the 4 month mark; one-third of the way through my deployment!

The goodbyes here are made easier by the daily hellos to home. It is a constant that I look forward to and has helped me remain on solid footing here. Sometimes it is just a quick chat, and sometimes I can linger a bit, but both make me feel connected and I am grateful for that. Today I got to hear all about the Holiday Bazaar from Amelia as she jumped on the trampoline. Despite the vocal modulation, it was a super update. Noah filled me in on the Ohio State - Iowa game, I got a play by play of the winning drive. Of course, I was able to chat about the game too because that is the first thing I check on Sunday mornings. It is normally with relief that I see they won, and know that Noah and Adam (and the Buckeyes) had a good game day Saturday.

There is one thing I wanted to share this week that was out of the ordinary. I got to take a short drive to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier monument. I was among a small group that was able to accompany one of our Brigadier Generals on a tour. The tour was neat, I have included a picture of me standing inside the monument. It was dark and dusty inside (no power) but the flash does a pretty good job of getting me and the center of the monument. I wish I could have gotten better interior shots but since it was looted during the invasion, there is not too much to see. You can tell it was very impressive at one time. The top of the structure provides great views of the city. All that was nice but by far the highlight of the visit was a short "concert" by the Iraqi Defense Forces band. They played the Iraq National Anthem as well as a few traditional and original pieces, however I was most touched (goosebumps and all...) by their playing of our National Anthem to start the concert off. It was a very thoughtful gesture and provided another memorable moment to add to my collection.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to wish all a lovely holiday and meal; hopefully shared with family and friends. Our DFAC is decked out in autumnal colors and an abundance of decorations for the occasion. No doubt that we will be served a wonderful holiday meal. And although I will really miss sitting at the same table with those I love, I am so grateful for the love and support of so many from home, including strangers, throughout this experience. It is a bountiful life I am living, even in Iraq.

Love,

Krista

p.s. Also pictured is my friend Colin. He makes me laugh for many reasons, one of which is his ability to do a pretty awesome Napolean Dynamite impression. Colin will be around for a couple more months before I have to say goodbye.

Mail Call

There comes a point here where you are not the new guy, but the guy in the know. I think I have officially reached that point. A good indicator is when you are a identified as a sponsor, my first sponsee arrived this week and although she is not working in my department, it feels good to offer someone the same assistance and advice that was offered to me when I arrived. I also have the opportunity to help people at work. My cubicle is positioned at the end of a central hallway so not only do I fulfill my Aquagirl duties but also act as the defacto receptionist for our section. It is not a cubicle most people would desire but I like the challenge of the random question and connecting people. Now, regardless of the question, I can pretty confidently point anyone in the right direction. It sure beats the out of sorts feeling I had when I first arrived.

I have also settled into another role, I am not sure what to call it, but Navy Spirit Coordinator might come close. With the Army-Navy football game coming up, I worked with LT Cadle to round up as many Navy folks as possible to film a short video spirit spot on Tuesday. We will submit it for airing and cross our fingers that it gets played during the game. With awesome Navy Chiefs coordinating some of the transportation, we had a pretty strong showing from three bases in the International Zone. We did our shoot at the famous Cross Swords monument. Nearby there is even an anchor which we incorporated in the video and took the opportunity to get some pictures at. Acknowledging that fun is measured on a different scale here, I would say that our spirit outing was a good time and a great display of Navy camraderie.

I also want to share with you that I received a record nine boxes this week. My friend and coworker from our time in Stuttgart Germany, Chief Wendy Brooks, sent a box of primarily "Made in Virginia" items along with a big ole pack of Red Vines. Everything was shared but the Red Vines have inspired me to organize a movie night. They are safely tucked away for now. And then the following day I came back from lunch to find eight, yes eight, boxes stacked on my desk. Now retired, Major Greg Cramer and his wife Lea (Adam's cousin) sent SEVEN boxes filled with a wonderful,random assortment of items including a letter I will treasure. Greg spent a tour in Fallujah, Iraq during the most challenging of times, and it is clear that he and Lea knew exactly what would be a hit. A small group gathered and the boxes were opened one by one; we made piles, distributed and then fortified the community shelf with all the remaining items. So thank you Wendy, Greg and Lea for your kindness and overwhelming generousity!

I am afraid if Greg saw our living and working conditions here on the Embassy Compound he would ask that it was all packed up and sent back. I am honored to serve here, but am humbled by those who have and continue to serve in locations far worse off, and far less safe. That, of course, includes Greg. And although I struggle with the sporadic violence that Iraqis face, it is clear that Iraq is a different place than in years past and benefitted from his service. Anyone that has been here in the past and returned, comments on the dramatic changes, changes for the better that indicate a developing economy and a return to normalicy. It is my hope that the government that was just announced this week will officially form in the next month and work for all of Iraq so they can improve upon what has started to develop after such sacrifice.

On a much lighter note, the ninth package... that was from Adam, Noah and Amelia; it included folders of schoolwork from the kids. I am a Mom that has always enjoyed seeing what comes home from school, so this was a great box. I loved going through their work and getting a chance to see what they are up to at school- really neat stuff that included two great report cards! That and two pairs of fuzzy socks from Adam to keep my feet warm at night.

Thanks for all the support from home. Despite my "decorator" instinct for having things in groupings of three, I appreciate those that validated my two goals mentioned in last week's post- I will gladly keep it at two for now. Take care.

Love,

Krista

p.s. Pictures include the record package day, Cross Swords monument at dusk, my coworkers and friends Vern, CDR Tom Barzee and LT Chris Cadle. Vern has honorary Navy status even though he is a faithful Air Force Lieutenant Colonel. Tom was my first Division Chief and a great friend. Sadly for me, he leaves this coming week but I wish him safe travels and the best at home.

The Mom Sabbatical

Three months down! Although it is hard to see the scale of the sundae pictured, those three candles, each representing a month of my twelve month deployment, are sitting on top of twelve brownie chunks and six scoops of ice cream topped with whipped cream. It was shared by Noah, Amelia, Willis, Mimi, Manny and Ross as the red box came out for the third celebration, this time at Buca di Beppo. Although it is just a picture, it is very rewarding for me to see the kids so happy.

When I started this mobilization, I felt proud of the steps I had taken to best prepare everyone, particularly the kids. There were practical things; I built the mother of all binders with critical numbers, special pockets for health cards and such, and any other "need to know" item I could think of. And there were the fun things, like daydreaming up the red box, but all done to ease the potential hardships that go with a parent's absence. As the weeks turned to months, my initial pride faded and it has been replaced- now it is Noah and Amelia that I am most proud of. I left with faith in their resilience but I am overwhelmed by their strength, loving support and good nature in a less than perfect situation. They, and of course Adam, and the support team at home, have made it so much easier for me, to take care of me, while here. THANK YOU!

I sometimes think of this as my "Mom Sabbatical" and I am determined to come home better than I left. Besides my measly one load a week, there is no laundry to do, no groceries to shop for, no meals to prepare, no dishes to wash and no house to clean! Kind of an all-inclusive resort, albeit with long working hours and occasional indirect fire. But to be a true sabbatical I need to fulfill some goals. At the risk of raising expectations, I am going to share a few publicly.

I am getting in shape, real shape. I make time for the gym and have been a regular at spin class. I have only missed one class since starting, at that was during my crazy "brief the CG" week. I am adding to my gym routine with some lifting but think I'm on the right track. It would be nice to join Adam on a run rather than just watch him run out the door- that is Goal One (G1). Goal Two (G2) is completing my Joint Professional Military Education, a painful but necessary distance learning course. I have been a bit of a slacker on this one but it is now or never. I don't like the idea of only two goals but I am at a loss for a substantial third at the moment. So G1 and G2 are out there for public consumption and comment. I will leave you waiting for a third, or you can help me out and make suggestions. All are welcome, and if not accepted, will at the very least be considered!

Love,

Krista

Happy Halloween

I have just returned from work; it is later than I normally sit down to write but I would hate to miss a Sunday "deadline" after all these weeks. It is Halloween today but other than candied apples at the dessert bar for dinner, which was a nice and thoughtful touch, it would be hard to tell. No tricks but a special treat on the walk back to my CHU this evening. I heard the sound of helicopters, I was sure they were near, but despite trying I could not spot them until after I felt the wash of the rotors. In the dark sky, flying without lights, it was impossible to make them out until one touched down no more than 50 meters from where I stood. I think it is magical how they blend in; I am always delighted to see them swoop down and then take off with such power, quickly disappearing into the night. They happily remind me of Adam and his helicopter days, and also serve as a reminder to be grateful that I am in a unique place, privy to some special experiences.

Another special experience was a dinner last night at the home of an Iraqi. She lives within the International Zone (IZ) so travel was easy, and safe, but I am afraid I can not share many details out of concern for her safety. But what I do want to share is that I had a really lovely evening and enjoyed their warm hospitality. During the evening the lights flickered a few times, once going out for a few minutes, but conversation continued as if nothing happened. Their hope for a better future for Iraq was palpable, and as I reflected on the evening I wished that I could bring ordinary Americans into their living room to see how similiar we are. They proudly shared stories of their family, past and present, and I shared the photos that I always keep in my sleeve pocket; it was clear that we were linked by a common desire for a secure future for who, and what, we love.

And then there was the food... I will have to wait until I am home to show you my Hostess but I wanted you to see what a tradional Iraqi spread looks like. It was all delicious and so fresh. We started with a soup, its base was made with tomato and turnips but it had other chopped vegetables and wonderful stuffed dumplings. Two rice dishes, a fantastic salad, homemade hummus, an okra dish and a platter of grilled meats and onions followed, all accompanied by bread similiar to pita but closer to naan in texture. The food is complex in flavor but has a simplicity to it that is very appealing to me. I will have to come back with some recipes.

Thanks to Lisa and the Jones family for the wonderful pictures of home. As time passes for you, it passes for me and I am grateful for the seasonal reminders as the months go by. Next year, you will find me excited to be back at my front door passing out candy. Amelia always joins me towards the end, we sit on the steps digging through her bag as she takes care of the stragglers at the end of the night. Noah arrives a little later, but I can always count on him for a Reeses Cup and a colorful recount of his evening. Next year...

Love,

Krista

Batter Up!

This past week was a busy one. The pace was similar to my early weeks in Iraq, but this time, it was purely self imposed. Briefing the Commanding General (CG), a four star, is something to be prepared for and I was pretty determined to make the best of the opportunity. It was not a given that I would brief, there were a number of scenarios that would have meant someone else briefed what I prepared. In keeping with the current baseball playoffs that were in full swing last week, I appreciated my Generals' confidence in sending me up to bat. During the car ride over, not long before I went up to bat, my General told me "don't screw it up." Oddly inspiring!

Perhaps because I had practiced so much, I felt suprisingly comfortable. No Brady Bunch moments picturing the General in his underwear were required. But I did remind myself that I was the expert (scary thought,) raised my chair, sat up a little straighter and calmly waited for my turn. It was a "U" shaped table, mostly Generals, a few Admirals, one Captain, and me, with my Embassy partner next to me. With the strap hangers behind the "U", about 35 were in attendance. And it went well, really well. But when it was over, I mostly felt relief. Relief that I had not struck out, and a bit of joy that I may have even made it on base while playing in the Majors.

The next day I had another brief for the CG, but this time it was just one slide with accompanying script by video teleconference from the Embassy. It is blasted all over but most people just see the slide and hear your voice. So I read, I focused on articulating clearly while ensuring my voice stayed out of the squeak zone. I made it through without blunder and then focused on my next responsibility- the Hail and Farewell that was scheduled for that evening. My coworkers were happy to do the heavy work- they just had no interest in the planning. So it was perfect- I planned, coordinated and crafted a bit and they picked-up and set-up as I requested. College football was the theme and the tailgate inspired menu included spicy brats with grilled peppers and onions, chicken wings, pasta salad, assorted chips, fruit platter and dessert. The DFAC did a super job preparing the special meal for us- all we had to do was pick it all up. Nice and easy- particularly when the guys pitched in so willingly. That ended my triple header. I pretty much collapsed into bed that night, exhausted but happy.

Pictured are my friend Vern making his way down the food line, me with my coworker Terry in the middle and Brian who works in the front office. Terry is a reservist, a Navy pilot, who is a rancher in "real life." He runs a cow-calf operation in Nebraska. In a rare perfect fit- he works agricultural issues here and really gets it. He heads home soon, he is more than ready to get back to his family and ranch, but I will really miss him. I don't remember exactly what was making me smile so broadly but I do remember laughing when that picture was snapped. And then there is my craft project. I made 25 pennants using the pre-season college football rankings in Sports Illustrated. There is no shortage of SI here so I tore two of them up to get my project started. I bought a role of brown craft paper at the exchange and laminated away. We have a great laminator and a really nice paper cutter so the job went fast. A few hole punches and weaving with the ribbon, and I was all set.

Wishing those at home a wonderful week, I am smiling thinking of all the halloween activities ahead. If you get a chance, please send me a picture of your ghosts and goblins.

Love,

Krista

Happy Birthday!

Last week I wrote about the predictable warm weather, and as if someone heard me and flipped a switch, the weather changed abruptly on Monday. I watched out my window on Monday afternoon, seeing the wind pick up and the visibility decrease as the air became foggy with dust. This was followed by a short spell of the "mud rain" I mentioned in my last post. I walked outside a couple of hours later, the wind had finally settled but the temperature had dropped at least twenty degrees. It felt wonderful! Most of the week was markedly cooler, a welcome change. But while the temperature went down, my workload increased as a presentation for the Commanding General was moved to this week. I have put in some long hours and expect to do the same for days to come, but I am excited for the opportunity to brief the CG.

On Wednesday the US Navy celebrated its 235th Birthday! The Dining Facility Manager graciously offered to make us a cake and as you can see it the picture above- the Baker did a great job. I helped gather the Navy personnel stationed on the New Embassy Compound for a brief ceremony that included a cake cutting by the oldest and youngest naval officer present, a few comments by one of our Captains and an off-key, but rousing, rendition of the first verse of Anchors Aweigh. We ended with a hearty "Beat Army" in keeping with the good natured rivalry that exists between the services-particularly the Army and Navy. Our Navy identity sometimes feels a bit lost while wearing the Army Combat Uniform but we Navy types are proudly displaying the Navy's "Don't Tread on Me" patch on our left shoulder. I myself have come to enjoy this uniform- particularly the many pockets which function better than a purse. A few "shipmates" I can think of did not make the picture but we were joined by a few from an adjacent base. It was a nice opportunity to get together and made Wednesday's lunch special. Actually all day there were a lot of "happy birthdays" exchanged in the hallway. Navy pride is alive and well here.

I have a little side project this coming week that I know will make some of you smile. I took on organizing an upcoming "Hail and Farewell" for my directorate- J9. These are monthly events where we get together to introduce, hail, the new folks and farewell those headed home. They are more commonly referred to as "Hail and Bail" since you go (mandatory) and then leave as soon as possible. The senior leadership would like to see people hang out a bit and socialize a little. I accepted the challenge and themed our upcoming gathering as a college tailgate with appropriate fare. College football is a welcome diversion on the weekend, and much talked about, so I think I may have found some commonality to bring this diverse group together. Time will tell.

And now, back to work.

Love,

Krista

Grill Night

With the exception of one dinner outside of the Embassy Compound, I am afraid that there is not much of significance to report this week. I think because I have developed such a routine, it is pretty easy to identify things that stand out. None I can think of this past week. And maybe that is not a bad thing, especially here. Quiet is good. Just makes it hard to come up with something to share. So how about we talk about what one often turns to when in need of a topic of conversation- the weather.

The daily high dipped below 100 degrees Fahrenheit this past Wednesday. In general the mornings have started to cool, what a nice change to make it to work before starting to sweat. August was pretty brutal and it carried well into September. A thermometer is posted outside of the Dining Facility and I cannot think of a day it was below 110 during August or September as we headed into lunch. All that heat makes it hard to imagine cooler days ahead but I have been promised that come November, or December at the latest- I will need to take out my army issued fleece zip-up. I am looking forward to it! But I have also been assured that the rain will come- and walking back from dinner tonight they described the rain as mud rain. Apparently the rain mixes with the many dust particles in the air and creates "mud rain." Fortunately the army also issued me a rain coat!

When I spoke to Adam today, Amelia and her friend Mabel were in the yard creating a leaf pile. They have an established fall tradition that involves jumping into giant piles of leaves. And although Adam reports that today is unseasonably warm in Columbus, just the thought of the girls raking and jumping into leaves is enough to bring me the feeling of fall. Another indicator is the trickle of halloween candy that has started to arrive. One of the young Army Captains(O3) that I work with is single and his Mother supplies a steady stream of treats. Just this past week she sent a box of Cheryl's Cookies (Columbus based) and then days later- a big box of halloween candy. Chris surprised us all, leaving treat bags on our desks that his Mother had prepared. I have mentioned the community shelf before, but in addition to the community food shelf there is also a large filing cabinet- each drawer filled with seasonal decorations. And in my cubicle, there are two big boxes- a christmas tree and a wreath left for me by my mentor and friend, CAPT Ahern. So despite the steady heat and predictable blue skies, the seasons and accompanying holidays of home will be celebrated, just celebrated Baghdad style.

On Thursday night a group from my office went "out" for dinner. The occasion was a farewell dinner for one of my Division co-workers. We enjoyed Grill Night at a nearby compound, even eating outside under the palm trees and a few visible stars. And although it may be a bit hard to see, I am posing with my dessert, a very pretty flan. Of course, before someone leaves, someone normally arrives to replace them and that means that I am no longer the new person. I have felt established for quite some time, but still, it is nice to lose the "new person" title. With Halloween approaching a new title might stick- Water Witch was jokingly (I think) proposed as an alternative to Aquagirl. They better watch out- I bet I can find a hat and a broom in one of those drawers!

Love,

Krista

Something to Live By

Back at home, I remember flipping through a catalog when the image above leapt out at me. I was enamored with the clean design, cute crown and most of all- the sentiment. I am pretty sure it was a framed print that I first saw, and I thought about where that could go in our home. Still not knowing the history behind it, but with it leaving an impression, I started noticing it more frequently. First the poster and then needlehook pillows (cute,) t-shirts and finally coffee mugs; hmmm, maybe a little too trendy- I took it off the mental shopping list. But I was reminded of it again here when I spotted an aged 8 1/2 by 10 version adorning the outer wall of a cubicle just down the way from mine. Now I was really curious, a quick trip to wikipedia filled me in; the slogan accompanied by the crown of King George VI was produced by the British Ministry of Information in 1939. It was one of a series of three prints, war propaganda designed to bolster the mental fortitude of the British should Germany invade. Fortunately the posters were not needed but sadly, they were destroyed.

Well not all of them, an independent bookseller from Northcumberland England discovered a folded up poster in the bottom of a dusty box of books bought at auction in 2000. He and his wife hung it the shop and eventually had prints made to satisfy the demands of customers who frequently inquired about purchasing it. The history, combined with the appropriateness of the senitiment in my current setting, I am in love all over again! I printed a copy of my own and it is now framed and sitting on my nightstand. Although not prone to hysterics, I really like the cheery and sensible reminder to keep moving forward.

People here track their progress or count the days in many ways. There are different schools of thought as to the best method; should you count daily, weekly, monthly or not at all? I do not know anyone that does not "count" in some way. But my friend Jason takes the prize for most original. He goes by the moon. The moon is very pretty here, and normally very striking because of the absence of clouds. I like his method, but having previously adopted the month, I have stuck with it. The little red box came out again on the 22nd of September, and this time Noah, Amelia and the Days were joined by the Jones Family for an after school treat of frozen yogurt at Cuzzins to celebrate two months down. And for me, a trio of Baskin Robbins with the baby scoop. I am in pretty tight with Ganesh, a kind gentleman who proudly oversees and maintains our impeccable ice cream bar. Normally it is the self-serve soft serve I indulge in, but for special occasions, Baskin Robbins served with a smile by Ganesh.

I did venture off compound, but within the International Zone, to the United Nations Compound this past week. It was interesting to see just how many countries and Non-Governmental Organizations are working to assist the Government of Iraq with water related issues. Ideally our meeting would mean less duplication of effort and more progress, but it is a challenge in this environment, a challenge excentuated by stalled government formation. Nonetheless, we are all trying to move forward, like me, one day at a time.

Love,

Krista

New Friends

There are few shopping opportunities here on the New Embassy Compound. We have one small store, I would say it is a bit bigger than your average convienence store. With the exception of jewelry, baby, toys and clothing, it has most of the same sections as your local Target but the selection within the various "departments" is extremely, extremely limited. For a comparitive shopper like me, the shopping experience is a little lackluster and generally disappointing. The other day I had the chance to visit a nearby base which has a mini bazaar of local, meaning Iraqi run, shops. I appreciated the opportunity to browse a bit and was quite satisfied with my eventual purchases.

Later that afternoon my coworker Colin, who I particularly enjoy for his quick wit and good nature, stopped by my cubicle. I enthusiastically took the opportunity to share my newly acquired goods with him. I spread them out and started extolling the virtues of my purchases. Not getting quite the reaction I hoped for, I pointed out a few more things worthy of note. He gave me a sigh, a look, and then said something along the lines of, "you can't turn me into a girl you know." It was a funny and accurate observation. I packed up my purchases, tucked them away, and took note of one sad fact- I really miss my girl friends.

In the Navy, I have always been the minority sex, and really it has never been an issue. It has not been something to notice, you just do your job. But here, for whatever reason, it is a bit more striking. I am the only female in my department, and on further reflection, the only female officer that works full time in this building. There are many women that work for state or other agencies but my work space, and camouflage outfit with combat boots, separates me from them. Friendly smiles are exchanged in and out of the lone female restroom on our floor, but it would be kind of hard and desperate, to get to know someone at the restroom sink. I do have my roommate but we are on different schedules and different places in our lives. I last about an hour after work, or spin on spin nights, before collapsing in bed and closing my eyes until morning. She showers at night and stays up late, very late for me, and sleeps until the last possible moment in the morning. I am showered and gone before the CHU lights go on. Not a lot of overlap.

So enter my new friends: Carrie, Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte. I never watched Sex and the City; I was just not interested at home. But here, they are filling a void, and during the past few weeks rarely a night has gone by that I have not watched an episode. For 24 minutes I enjoy walking the streets of NYC with them, occassionally having lunch or stopping by a trendy boutique. But, I do not watch for the Manolo Blahniks or Jimmy Choos- my fix is the easy banter and knowing looks exchanged among girl friends. My boxed set contains all the seasons so I am set for quite a while. And come November, I will not be the only woman in the office; another female Navy Commander (and Mom of four) is headed this way. Maybe I can bring out the bazaar purchases one more time.

Love,

Krista

p.s. Colin is a new Dad. His first child, an adorable baby girl, was born two months ago. He will meet her for the first time, in just under a month, when he goes home for R&R. Talk about personal and family sacrifice, he takes the cake.

Iraq's Best Burger

Every morning, I am the first to wake in my CHU. I make my way to the door and get ready for the piercing light that greets me each day. Because we essentially live in a tin can with no light and because I don't want to bother my CHUmate by turning on the interior light, that first glimpse of the sun is painful. But each day I close my eyes to a squint, open our door, and feel my way to the bathroom door, thankfully only one door away. I am sure it would be very amusing to a passer by. So one day this week I decided to try a new tactic and wear my sunglasses for the trip, I opened the door and thought "wow, what a difference!" As if I could not believe that the sunglasses could be that good I lifted them a bit and got a bigger surprise- it was cloudy, full blown cloudy with no blue. Since I have been here- not a cloud in the sky. Not one. Sometimes a little sand in the air that creates a haze, and some pollution visible from smokestacks across the Tigris but never a cloud. After living in Columbus for almost twelve years, welcoming a cloudy sky is a new feeling for me but I did welcome it and enjoyed not feeling the sun boring down. Not only did I make my way to work with an appreciation for how different things looked but it was also the topic of conversation of work. And that there is the one thing that made this week different- clould cover.

I have previously described the New Embassy Compound (NEC) as a mini college campus, and I think that it has that feel but there are touches of the middle east that serve as a reminder of where you are. Depending on which way the wind is blowing, the call to prayer can be heard in the distance or sometimes very clearly. The call is a song of sorts broadcast over speaker. But not a melody to my ear, more of a wailing tone that sometimes sounds a bit erie and sometimes very beautiful. Hard for me to describe but definately a reminder throughout the day that I am in not in Kansas anymore. Depending on where I walk, when I look over the wall I sometimes have a good view of Saddam's cross swords monument, at least the arch of the swords where they meet and I can also see the former Baath Party headquarters building. I imagine both of these graced the front of postcards not too long ago.

Today is Sunday, my normal day to write but I have recognized a new pattern that involves Sunday and I think it is worth writing about. Sunday at lunch features the Embassy Burger. I had my first Embassy Burger on Labor Day; I figured that I would enjoy the holiday in the same fashion many at home would- with traditional barbeque fare. I was not alone, the grill had extra long lines that day. It was so good that at the end of the day, I shared with my roommate that I had one for lunch and went on to tell her how good it was- she said, "I know, I had one for lunch and one for dinner it was so good." So what makes it so special? The patties are hand formed, the buns are dry but toasted on the grill, you can go plain or get cheese melted on top. Other options once it comes off the grill include bacon, grilled onions or mushrooms. I go classic, a single burger with one slice of melted cheese loaded with shredded lettuce, tomato slice and rounds of raw onion with ketchup. And maybe, just maybe, there is one more special ingrediant that makes is so good- the taste and smell of a bit of American culture when so far away from home. If forced to compare with one at home, I would probably send you to Five Guys. But if you are in Iraq, I would be willing to bet you will find the best burger right here at the NEC!

So in just a bit I start another week. I have commented to a few that I am puzzled by how the days can seem so long and the weeks go by so fast. But it is far from a complaint, I am happy to keep moving forward.

Love,
Krista

p.s. Won my first fantasy football game and led in points overall for the first week- who knew I could play football?

Special Note: It has really been quiet lately but this morning, not so much. While I am fine, and those around me are too, a few VBIED's (vehicle born improvised explosive devices) have rocked Baghdad today (outside of the International Zone.) Seems really trivial, and frankly embarassing, to wax on about a burger amidst death and destruction. But that is kind of what life here is like, you grasp the good and the normal. Still, glad I got the post written before seeing all the reports.

Housewarming

Come on in, I have got my home away from home all set up. This week my $34 flatpacked desk arrived from Walmart- I had envisioned myself getting all resourceful and building a desk from a discarded pallet but despite looking, I could find nothing around here that would come close to providing me what I needed to fabricate a desk. And the fact that my only tools are on a pocket size multitool, probably best that I ordered the desk. I was able to borrow a screwdriver from the housing office and got right to the assembly. This is the type of thing that Adam would normally do for me. It would go something like this, "Adam, I'll make you lunch (or put any meal here) if you will put the desk together." He would knock it out and I would present him with some plate of somewhat artfully presented food. Not an option. I thought of my friends, specifically Lisa or Cathy, that would open the box and tackle the project without hesitation. So I channeled their attitudes, and abilities, and opened the box. I spread all the pieces on my bed and picked up the instructions. When my roommate eyed the package of screws, kind of a big package, with six different compartments for the different type and length of screws, she suggested she help me when she get back from taking a shower. Still channeling Lisa and Cathy, I told her thanks but I would give it a try. I got to it and guess what- done before she got back from the shower. Yes, she does take very long showers. But still, I was feeling good and the desk is solid!

I also bought a $9.99 rug from the little exchange; it is cream- never a color I would buy at home but boy do my pink toes look nice against a cream rug. And then I have the ingrediants that feed my soul; most significantly Amelia's old comforter which she was happy to help me pack in one of my "mail forward" boxes. It is only seeing it here that I realize how worn it is. Very faded with a few holes where Oscar scratched- but to me it feels loved rather than old, and I can recall snuggling on it, or under it, reading countless books with Amelia. I also packed a little heart that I picked out at a Saturday morning Market in Germany in 2007. It was a little market, in a nearby town, either late November or early in December. It was not a Christmas market but had a number of vendors set up with gift type booths. I was inspired by a particular artisan's handiwork and ended up choosing two items. One hangs here, and one at home on our back porch. But it is not just the item, it is the memories of that morning and family that make it treasured. It was the first time we had tried fresh German waffles and Noah was completely enamored. This booth was a preschool fundraiser, maybe a euro for a waffle sprinkled with powdered sugar. I can not remember how many times Noah went back to the booth but it was comical by the end. After that I hit the resale shop on base for a german waffle maker and the local market for some german waffle batter- it became a regular weekend family ritual for the rest of our time there. I guess I share this to say that while I am alone, I am comforted by my surroundings and thoughts of home. It may be cliche, but for me, home is where the heart is.

And there are the practical things I like about my room. Adam shipped me a memory foam mattress topper and pillow set- my bed is super cozy. The bed is next to the wall, I often decompress flipping through a magazine- how convienant that I can rip out a page and just magnet it to the wall. No more loose pieces of paper on the nightstand. My view from the bed is the back of my roommate's locker, and it being metal too, a perfect place to hang pictures and cards. It is my "happy wall." I have my locker with half shelves and half hanging space with one big shelf running across the top. Everything is nicely organized in a way that I would struggle to maintain with my personal things at home. More truth to another cliche, less is more. There is actually a window in our CHU but the view from the window is the back of another CHU and the AC units, better closed for now.

I am getting ready to head to work, I took my "half day" yesterday afternoon and this is my standard late day- with almost 24 hours away from the office I feel quite refreshed. I wrote for a bit this morning and then headed to an early lunch, which for me was brunch since I missed breakfast. I slept until 8:40 this morning, that is pretty late for me. Since today is an Embassy workday, breakfast ends at 8:30am. Missed that. No worries though, I enjoyed a quiet morning. I was happy to see that the Buckeyes had such a good game against Miami. I know that my family, and probably most of Ohio, will be in high spirits today. I am actually playing a little football myself, NFL fantasy football that is. Another player was needed so I "suited" up and made some picks for the draft. I did pretty well scoring Peyton Manning as my QB and some emotional picks that I thought would make Noah happy. We will see how I do!

Lots of love,
Krista

p.s. In addition to the CHU pictures, a partial shot of my cubicle after a bountiful mail call- came back from a meeting to find a pile! Thank you!

One Month Down

If I were to summarize how this past week felt, I would have to say it felt normal. And to be able to say that here, at this time, feels like some sort of accomplishment. This normal is long work days, peppered with sporadic "duck and cover" alarms, meaning I get under my bed if I am in my CHU, or away from the windows if I am at work. With the change of operations from Operation Iraqi Freedom to Operation New Dawn, highlighted by a major ceremony with very special guests; it was expected that we would see a heightened increase of in-direct fire (IDF.) My arrival in Iraq also coincided with the beginning of Ramadan, and historically throughout the country there is an increase in IDF at that time. So kind of a double whammy. But I am well; I take every precaution and work hard to keep a keen sense of my surroundings. I am determined to fight off the complacency that inevitably can set in, but I also welcome this feeling of normalicy.

I am also fortified by my regular correspondance with Adam and the kids. Both Noah and Amelia are loving school and all the activities that fall brings. For Noah that means Grandview Youth Football and for Amelia, it means soccer, and new this year, piano lessons. In addition to sleepovers and playdates, I know they are frequently catching rides to and from school as well as practices. I have always believed in the "it takes a village" philosophy but to have so many helping out for the benefit of my family- I just want to say thank you!

Adam, Noah and Amelia celebrated "1 Month Down" with the Day family during this past week. I left behind a little red enamel recipe box, but instead of recipes, it has 12 envelopes marked with each month. I provide dessert for a monthly celebration- and this month the envelope contained a gift card for Jeni's. As I prepared for my deployment, I found great comfort brainstorming about this type of thing. It was certainly much better than thinking about leaving family and friends. So while they had Jeni's, I found my way back to the ice cream bar for a scoop of Pralines and Cream, and we all had the satisfaction of officially celebrating one month down. While I was at Camp Virginia, we were all required to enter information into a database. One of the entries was the day you arrived in theater (Persian Gulf). For me that was 6 August 2010, the day I landed in Kuwait. After entering it, the computer magically, well it felt like magic, spit out the day I leave theater. My magical date is 22 July 2011, that is based on my orders for 350 days. So while I am not a counter by day, I will gladly mark each month and keep looking forward to July 22, 2011.

Not much new to report on work, just chugging away and learning everyday. I am very short on pictures with the NEC photo restrictions but have included a shot taken on my first job related trip out of the International Zone (formerly referred to as the Green Zone.) It is not much to see, but there I am back in full battle rattle. I even managed to stick with my "Safety First" policy and get my seat belt on. No easy task in full battle rattle! Regardless of the seat belt, I have never felt safer. That trip was just one of the many times I have felt like I must be in a movie. "Surely this is not my life" is a frequent refrain that has gone through my head from my early days at Camp McCready to the present. And although there is no script, I just do my best to act the part. Security concerns prevent me from going into more detail, but at least know that I will have stories to share when I get home. And, that the security provided here is of the highest caliber- so high that I am certain even my Mom would approve!

Love,
Krista


p.s. toes are OPI kiss on the chic pink

Aquagirl

I have had a good week. I am writing from my CHU, trying to get a little of this week's entry written before I, wait for it..., head to my 11am pedicure! Do I wear combat boots 93% of my awake time? Yes I do, but I am embracing all that is great about life on the NEC (New Embassy Compound) and that includes very inexpensive salon services. I can not tell you how much yet, but my roommate got her eyebrows done for $4, so I think I am in for a bargain. Today is one of my coveted half days so I will not head to work until just before two. It is really, really nice to have some downtime. I did build a schedule on excel, more commonly referred to as a "Battle Rhythm" around here and have posted it above my desk and in my CHU. I got a litte teasing from my office mates for my color shaded masterpiece- they all questioned the need since all we do is work, eat and work-out. This may be true, but my battle rhythm specifically includes M, W, Fri evening spin class, Tue/Thur/Sat pre-dinner workouts, Tue/Thur calls to Noah and Amelia before they head to school, and weekly video chats on Saturday. Plus a big shaded block shows my half day- all things to look forward to, and perhaps a sense of control, since it is MY schedule.

The steep learning curve continues but I had a few solid performances while briefing this past week. I briefed a one star general, a two star general and our incoming one star general. Whereas the first two briefs were on a specific topic, the incoming general's brief was my favorite- I was supposed to provide a very brief overview on Strategic Water but he asked me some specific questions and I really knew the answers. I surprised my boss, my coworkers and myself; definately a boost of confidence. The only person I appeared not to surprise, was Tim, the outgoing Strategic Water Officer, who has had a very generous amount of faith in me from the beginning. Tim left a couple hours after my brief but he was able to overhear while I presented; it was the perfect "final exam" to all he had taught me. I should make it clear that I have so much more to learn, and also want to mention, that I am not the one to solve the complex water issues that the Government of Iraq (GOI) faces. My position requires me to have an solid understanding of their water situation and issues, and then to coordinate with those who have the expertise to address current issues and make the best possible long term (strategic) recommendations.

A little joking around the office about what to call me started out with "water girl" and culminated with "Aquagirl" after Tim discovered that "Aquaman" has a female counterpart. So the picture above now hangs next to my name outside of my cubicle. Because my boss thought my bikini might be a bit racy- my office version wears a little skirt fabricated from a post-it note. I am embracing my new role, and title, with the hope that my efforts can help make a real difference to the people of Iraq. Why would I want to? As our outgoing two star general, MGEN Lanza, said in comments at his farewell yesterday, "I can think of 4416 reasons why..." For me, that was not only a sobering reminder of the ultimate sacrifice so many service members before me have made for this mission, but also one of the most motivating reasons to give my best.

Love,
Krista

p.s. $12 for a pedicure

Water, Water, Water!

I am not much for counting the days but I am amazed that I arrived only eight days ago. While much of this journey has been physically and emotionally challenging, this past week has been mentally exhausting. I am "enrolled" in what feels like a graduate level crash course in all things water. The officer I am relieving has a PHd in Chemistry and finds comfort in things technical in nature. Lucky for me, he also has experience as a college professor and has patiently taught me this week. Inevitably my eyes glaze over and it is a pretty clear indicator that I have reached max capacity. It is not just the amount of information that I am trying to absorb but the amount of time spent learning. I am normally in the office at 7:30am and not "home" until 10pm or later. I am dragging though and eventually I will have to adapt my schedule to something more reasonable. I have gotten a few work-outs in and know that they will be my ticket out of the office. Many of the guys take an extended dinner, leaving between 4:30 and 5:00 and then returning about 7:30 after a workout and chow. The break will make a few more hours in the evening manageable but I am thinking 9:30 will be about it for me. We do get 2 half days a week meaning we come in at 2pm. I am looking forward to building them into my schedule but that has just not been possible during this critical turnover time.

As Strategic Water Officer I am tasked with working with my US Embassy colleague, a Foreign Service Officer, and liaising with Iraqi officials to help ensure that we are supporting the Government of Iraq's efforts to sustain and maximize one of their, and the regions most precious resources- water. This has meant learning a complicated flow chart that diagrams the sources of water, the various dams and canal systems and developing an understanding of the demands for water. Flow rates, dam levels, salinity levels, irrigation systems and why and how water is used to get oil out of the ground- all part of this crash course. Being in the cradle of ancient civilization, I started with a familiarity of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers but the rest is new. What was initially incredibly daunting is starting to make sense, a credit to my teacher and perhaps inevitable with the time we are spending on water. Kind of makes me long for the simpler days lugging around a M16. OK, not really, but I will be happy when I do not feel so mentally taxed!

This week marked a milestone in the war as the last combat brigade departed Iraq. I welcome the next phase, Operation New Dawn, and think it is a symbolic and important step for us and the Iraqi people but also understand that many of the same challenges and dangers exist. We receive regular e-mail blasts highlighting national (Iraqi and American) and international media articles and I thought I would offer a link to one that I felt really captured how it feels to me on the ground. Unfortunately, you will have to cut and paste since I am having trouble with the link function.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/19/AR2010081905642.html?hpid=topnews

Certainly not required reading! For now, I am the one in school...

On a lighter note, I now have a roommate. Raina is an Army Major who is a Public Relations Officer. She is also on her first deployment to Iraq so I have someone to commiserate with as we adjust, and hopefully laugh with in the near future. We spent a little time, before heading to work yesterday morning, moving the lockers around and have divided the room to maximize privacy. I have the sought after back section, meaning I do not have to put up with anyone walking through my section to get to the door. I promise pictures of the CHU soon. If making my bed counts, then the decor project has started. My pre-packed box arrived yesterday and I am thrilled to be sleeping in my new sheets (thanks Cathy!)and under Amelia's old quilt. I also rest my head on MY pillows, and on the sweetest pillow case that Amelia and Mabel made and packed in my first real care package. Speaking of packages, thanks for all your offers. I am honestly not in need of anything. Between the DFAC and the mini exchange on base, I am in really good shape. We do have a shelf in the office that gets restocked as the care packages come in, and I would love to contribute to that sometime but know that I am just fine. If you really want to put something in the mail, a post card or letter would be great. I have designated a "happy" wall in my CHU and would also welcome artwork if your kids, or you, feel like drawing! The walls are all magnetic so it makes it very easy to stick things up. And of course, I continue to appreciate ALL of your prayers, e-mails and blog comments. I wanted to feel connected to home and I really do. Thanks so much. Speaking of home, Noah blew out candles on four separate occasions for his twelth birthday. It pained me to miss it but was so touched by everyone's efforts to make it special.

For security reasons, we are not able to take pictures on the Embassy Compound until applying for, and receiving, a 24 hour photo pass. I have not done that, but I still have a few pictures to share. I am really pleased to post the second picture in the Jones-Henningsen household's Navy Flag series and am also posting a shot of my "Dang it Doll" as requested by Amelia. I threw in a picture of my two favorite battle buddies from Camp McCready, Chief Q and my friend Jason. We were all last together at Camp Victory but this picture was taken on our last night in Kuwait.

Love to all,
Krista

Parade of Homes

I am writing from the comforts of my latest home- CHU 8 in Baghdad, Iraq. I left Kuwait on Wednesday, late morning, and arrived Baghdad in the early afternoon. With the exception of getting rollover training in an MRAP (mine resistant armor plated vehicles) and some culture training, my last few days in Kuwait were spent walking to or from a meal, or relaxing at the USO tent. The USO was very impressive; the tv show Man Cave came over and spruced it all up; it has phone and computer stations, a large library of books, a movie zone and apparent troop favorite: video gaming areas. You would not know you are in a tent- with the exception of not having a bathroom, it is a great place to hang out. I lucked out and was in Kuwait for the monthly camel visit sponsored by the USO. We did not get to know each other well, but I got to climb on and take a short ride. Definately a highlight of my time in Kuwait!

Time for goodbyes, we were being shipped out in groups to Iraq and Afghanistan; my group was comprised of 12 and we were assigned to a C130 to Baghdad. Wearing our Individual Body Armour and helmuts, we took our spots in the netted seats and sat sweating profusely until take off. It cooled a bit at altitude and it appeared that everyone took a little snooze. We had been briefed that we would be doing a combat approach, meaning evasive flying. A wake up tap was passed from passenger to passenger as we tightened our belts and helmuts before descending. I was not looking forward to the descent but it was not as bad as I had imagined it to be. Throughout this process, I seem to build things up and then find myself relieved at the end of each evolution. It seems to be a new character trait I am developing; not one I am proud of. Back to the approach...I came to realize that a little dive was coming when the engines were pulled back. Getting a handle on that allowed me to predict a sudden movement and that made it better. It was also the first time I thought to consider discouraging my children from joining the military. And then we landed, I took a deep breath and relaxed.

We shuttled to Camp Victory which runs alongside the airport and headed to our newest temporary lodging, more tents. We only stayed two nights; just long enough to get a brief from the Navy staff and to get our final leg of travel sorted. Camp Victory is on, in and around Saddam Hussein's palace. To be perfectly honest, I did not like being there and meeting in one of his former buildings. I know there are many practical reasons for why we are based there, and I am sure it will be turned over one day, but it just seems like a great opportunity for the insurgents to portray us as occupiers, instead of partners. I could not imagine Americans standing for it if the situation were reversed. Just my take. On a more trivial note, the decor in the building was kind of french oppulent with some persian mosaic thrown in. Huge chrystal chandeliers, damask wallpaper and lots of gold trim. In addition to the fixtures and wallcoverings, some original furniture remains and that was interesting for me.

On Friday, I loaded up my seabags, I was both excited and nervous to head to my final destination. It is not a long trip but requires a MRAP convoy outside the wire (off base.) I was comforted remembering that one of our Drill Sergeants said the first convoy is always the worst, but also annoyed to find myself imagining every worst case scenerio. Not only was it Friday the 13th, not lost on any of us travelling that day, but for me it was also Noah's birthday. I just could not help but think that would be a really bad Mom move to ruin his birthday for life. I did not know anyone in my truck but if the soldier across from me would have reached out- I would have held his hand in a second. I think it is time for you to reconsider including the word "brave" in the comments section! The convoy commander, gunner and driver were as professional as could be and clearly knew their jobs and route, inside and out. More deep breaths after arriving, unharnessing and disembarking.

I have been here just over a day. The compound is very nice and with the exception of the scattered mortar shelters, it looks like a mini college campus. I do not know the numbers, but it appears civilians outnumber military and that is refreshing. I will wait for next week to describe my job to you but my title is Strategic Water Officer. This for a girl who generally does not even like water unless it has been processed into a Diet Coke. Out of the 96 in my class at Camp McCready, three of us are assigned here. We are considered very lucky as it is generally acknowledged that the Embassy has the best of everything. My container housing unit (CHU) is right next to the bathroom, literally the next door down, and I do not currently have a roommate. My sponsor was kind enough to have my key waiting and even turned on the a/c in advance of my arrival. Definately an improvement in living conditions. I am looking forward to doing a little decorating and making it my home away from home.

I got most of the orientation and initial adminstrative things done at work today and got the internet activated in my CHU. I look forward to staying in touch and am so grateful for the ability to communicate easily.
You can now reach me by mail too. My address is:


CDR Krista P. Sturbois
PSC 2042 Unit 42
APO AE 09870-2042

Love Krista