A funny thing happened on the way to Baghdad

Greetings to all,

I am enjoying another 1/2 day. I only have 126 days left in country, but who is counting? There is not too much to report this week on the work front. The TJAG visit was good as it got me out of the office and I got to hang out with and see some of my friends who traveled with me to Iraq and who are down in the International Zone. Unfortunatley I have a COL who I call COL no fun. He put the ax on the officers getting licensed on the the humvee. Oh well we are getting a new commander in June so I will ask all over again. In all of my self loathing on not getting off Camp Victory, I was able to be present in country during a historic event, the breakthrough in forming a new government here.

As much as I poke fun at the Haji (Happy Haji Eve by the way), I must give the Iraqi people immense credit, not only in coming out in droves to vote but to live an every day life. Markets in Baghdad are bustling, people go to work, while bombs explode killing people and damaging property. Everyone is out and about, with man dresses and all. It is a true testament to the human spirit. Contrary to what CNN and other news outlets and politicians say back home, this place is not on the verge of civil war. It is quite the opposite. In less than one year Iraq is making huge strides in its transition to a peaceful democracy. It is sad that I sometimes fail to realize that when I am here. It is good to take a break and look up and realize that something unique and great is happening. I have included another sunset picture and what I call the three monkeys picture (They are my co-workers and no it is not real beer. Near beer sucks. Work with me here people we are at war after all. ) Tommorrow is another Haji Day and day less until I return home.