MERRY CHRISTMAS

Well it's Christmas Eve here in Afghaniland. I can't believe it's almost the end of the year already. These last few months have gone by quicker than expected. We got our first snowfall a few days ago. Nothing much, just an inch or so. Nothing compared to the snow you guys are seeing back home. It melted by 2 in the afternoon. Today it was in the 50's again. I kind of wish it would snow just so it would feel a little more like Christmas. As usual, the Army is preparing a big meal for us tomorrow. I'm hoping for fresh fruit and veggies again....Ahhhh....the small joys in life. Speaking of small joys - I ate a peach the other day that was actually ripe and sweet. It was by far the best tasting thing I have had in months!

In keeping with the ridiculousness of the Army, they have decided to drug test us while we are over here. Let me tell you what an experience that was! Not only do we not have real bathrooms (we have heated outhouses and not being gross but we go into a barrel and it has to be burned every day) but you have to be observed giving the sample during the drug test. So two femals had to cram into a stall that can barely hold one. Let's just say you got to know the person you were in the stall with very well! It was miserable.

I've also discovered that I would be near supermodel status in Russia. Well at least that is what the Russian pilots tell me but who knows how long they have been away from their families. All the pilots love me and today they brought me Christmas presents, telling me "Merry Christmas Eve." I got a Mars bar and some Russian candy.

Well I will wrap this up. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas. Wish I could be there but know that I'm thinking of you all!