Kuwait

Over and Out, Long and Gone

2010-09-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

I'm home in the LBC and getting settled. That's probably it for my blog. Thank you to everyone for your loyalty, support, positive feedback, and laughs. Find me on Facebook or bonnie.bachenheimer@kyl.com.

xxxooo

Stranded

2010-09-02T08:02:00.000-07:00

My journey home from KAF to LBC involved a one-day stop in Kuwait. I e-mailed my friend and former boss Scott (Center Manager at Camp Virginia) and asked if he would pick me up at the airport. Here is the relevant part of my e-mail to Scott copied directly from my e-mail:

I'm due in to KWI tomorrow on Gryphon Air, flight No. 6P-093, leaving Kandahar at 1530, and arriving KWI at 18:45 on 24 August 2010. I'm hoping you will pick me up at airport.

This is his reply, copied directly from his e-mail:

I / we will be by the Starbucks / Cinnabon side of the arrival hall as you exit the customs area ( left side ).

Anyone who has arrived at Kuwait International Airport (KWI) knows exactly what he's referring to.

My plane arrived 50 minutes early on 24 August and since it was daylight and it was Ramadan, the airport was virtually empty. I checked out the area in front of Starbucks/Cinnabon, didn't see Scott, so I sat down facing the airport entry in order to see him when he arrived. I waited 30 minutes until my scheduled arrival, walked around outside for awhile, then waited another 15 minutes, so as not to appear impatient. I did not have cell service since I'd left my Roshan SIM card back in Afghanistan, so I found a corner, rifled through my suitcase to find my Wataniya SIM card, bought 5KD worth of minutes ($20), turned on my phone and saw that Scott had just sent me a text.

"Are you here?" he wrote.
"Yes, over an hour" was my reply.
"Where are you?"
"Starbucks"

There was a short wait, then I received from him:
"Where is Starbucks?"

My phone rang.
Scott said, "I know where the Green Beans is, but where is Starbucks?"
I said, "Where are you?"
"LSA." [Life Support Area; the passenger terminal at Ali Al Salem Airbase.]
Scott, I'm at KWI, not the LSA PAX terminal!
&%$@ (>^%/ +=%$#!!

They dropped off Wendy back at Camp Virginia, then sludged through a bad accident and fuel spill at the traffic circle and fought the now massive Ramadan traffic at the airport, so by the time Scott arrived I had ended up waiting over three hours for my ride.

I figure Scott and I are about even, since he had to drive all the way back to KWI to bring me my CAC when I forgot it in the car before my trip to Germany. Luckily, I found the whole event more amusing than frustrating and Scott and I are still friends [but he's a dork].

Asian DFac

2010-09-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

On a regular morning I get up at 0800 and head to the Asian DFac for breakfast. Recently I was sitting alone at a table for six, three empty chairs facing me and one on either side. The DFac was not at all crowded and there were many, many, many open seats, but this Romanian guy sits down in the chair facing me. WTF1??

A couple of days later I was sitting at one of the long tables, about two seats in from the end. Again, the DFac was not crowded and there were many, many, many open seats. I bow my head and close my eyes to say a prayer; when I open my eyes there were two Romanians sitting directly across from me. Did I mention that the DFac was not at all crowded and there were many, many, many open seats? WTF2??

[This all happened before we had the Unit Appreciation Event.]

The placemats in all of our DFacs have word and number games on them so there's something to do if I'm eating alone (and not entertaining Romanians). The Sudoku is really difficult, and despite the fact that I've been doing these puzzles regularly for almost 6 years, I was having trouble with anything three-star or above. Finally, after weeks and weeks, and thankfully before I left for home, I was able to complete the five-star Sudoku!

High Flying, Adored

2010-09-02T06:27:00.000-07:00

Pictures of my going away party and some favorite people, all of whom I will miss A LOT!

Incoming and On the Way Home

2010-08-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine posted the following on Facebook. Although it may not be funny to you, it's freakin' hilarious to me and I am compelled to save it for posterity:

I would like a word with the buffoon who designed an airplane that sounds EXACTLY like incoming. Stupid Hornets.

-o0o-

Romanians and Bulgarians

2010-08-21T22:03:00.000-07:00

On 21 August we took Tim Horton's coffee, doughnuts and muffins to the Romanian and Bulgarian compound. We had decided to do a Unit Appreciation Event for them when we found that the Romanian military was experiencing a 25% pay cut. Owen said the colonel had tears in his eyes when we explained our purpose.

Our hosts were somewhat guarded when we arrived, and it took them a little while to loosen up; but once they were more comfortable their warmth, humor and charm poured forth. It was one of the nicest and most rewarding events we've had. I love my job.

Ride 'em Stryker

2010-08-04T00:12:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better for USO team building than to ride in a Stryker, an eight-wheeled, 4x4-wheel-drive, combat vehicle named for two American Medal of Honor recipients: PFC Stuart S. Stryker, who died in World War II and SPC4 Robert F. Stryker, who died in the Vietnam War. We gathered at the 401st yard for our joy ride, testing the shocks, keeping a look out and staging speed sprints across, through, next to the wire and all around KAF. Sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, knee-to-knee, face-to-face and chewing on sand with my co-workers and a couple of Aussies is my idea of a good time.

Pilandrome

2010-08-03T23:49:00.000-07:00

Most of the troops have their last names listed on their blouses, but their first names remain a mystery. I introduce myself, as "Hi. I'm Bonnie." and they reply, "Hi. I'm Lieutenant/Private/Specialist/Corporal/Colonel/Petty Officer/Captain/Sergeant/Major, etc. Jones. I was eating lunch with an acquaintance who I knew from our previous discussions was a pretty interesting guy: two college degrees, a former teacher, spent time in the Peace Corps, speaks four languages . . . After a while eating together, here's our conversation:

Me: So anyway, what's your first name?
He: Robert.
Me: Cool. Do they call you Robert, Bob, Robby or what?
He: Any of those are OK.

[A few minutes of silence and eating.]

He: Did you know that "Bob" spelled backwards is "Bob?"

[Fork half-way to my mouth, dumbfounded, staring in disbelief for 15 seconds]
Me: You're an idiot!
He: [Giggling] Yeah, I know.

[More minutes of silence and eating.]

Worlds Apart

2010-08-03T23:13:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted anything on my blog for almost three weeks. It's because:
1. My computer was broken;
2. There was nothing going on;
3. There was lots going on but I couldn't post anything because of OpSec;
4. I wrote a lot, but nothing was suitable to share;
5. I am lazy.

Mostly, it's Nos. 1 and 5.

My regular work-out buddy is very busy and working on a promotion, but I did manage a visit to the gym the other day. There are two gyms on base; the MWR gym which, rumor has it, is dark, dusty and old (also known as "The Prison Gym") and the one I go to, the NATO gym, which is huge, clean, bright, well-equipped and close to my MOD.

When I am working out I pull a curtain of hair across my face, turn up my iPod, close my eyes and get movin'! One friend said he saw me on the treadmill, and stood right in front of me, but with my eyes closed I didn't notice he was there. Apparently he spotted me numerous times and never once saw my eyes open. It's not that there's nothing/no one good to look at, it's just that I'm enjoying my music. My iPod is loaded with the eclectic music of my life: Jefferson Airplane, Peter, Paul and Mary, Bruce Springsteen, Phil Ochs, Joe & Eddie, Garth Brooks, the Irish Tenors, music from West Side Story, Milk & Honey, Evita and Pocahontas, the Stones, Israeli folk dances, prayers, disco, classical, John Philip Sousa, etc., etc. Bruce Springsteen's "Worlds Apart" (which came out right after 9/11) came on and I was really rockin'! It gets my vote for one of the best songs/performances ever.

[paste this into your browser, watch and weep]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8ARTiq4EwE

WORLDS APART

I hold you in my arms, yeah that's when it starts
I seek faith in your kiss, and comfort in your heart
I taste the seed upon your lips, lay my tongue upon your scars
But when I look into your eyes, we stand worlds apart

Where the distant oceans sing, and rise to the plain
In this dry and troubled country, your beauty remains
Down from the mountain roads where the highway rolls to dark
'Neath Allah's blessed rain, we remain worlds apart

Sometimes the truth just ain't enough
Or it's too much in times like this
Let's throw the truth away, we'll find it in this kiss
In your skin upon my skin, in the beating of our hearts
May the living let us in, before the dead tear us apart

We'll let blood build a bridge, over mountains draped in stars
I'll meet you on the ridge, between these worlds apart
We've got this moment now to live, then it's all just dust and dark
Let love give what it gives
Let's let love give what it gives

A Joke

2010-07-14T04:35:00.001-07:00

My new favorite cartoon.

Noah is in the background with his ark and all of the animals, boarding two-by-two.
Male and female dinosaurs are in the foreground. One dinosaur says to the other,

"Shoot! Was that today?"

hahahahahahahahahhahahahahahah

Hong Kong Outing

2010-07-14T03:51:00.000-07:00

Today was my day to explore Hong Kong. It didn't start out that way, but by the time I got off the bus at Jardine House (the place will all the circles) tracked down a bathroom, got lost, located the Star Ferry Pier, got something to drink, crossed on the ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui, discovered the really, really, really fancy* mall, found a bathroom, got back on the ferry, bought something to eat, purchased a People magazine, and then hiked, climbed, crossed and walked** to Exchange Square, indeed it became an excursion. I managed to locate the No. 6 bus to Stanley, a beach town and tourist attraction with swimming beaches, scores of shops and the internationally famous, world renowned Hong Kong Maritime Museum. I felt right at home when I saw that Keesal, Young & Logan was a donor (that's us, six down, two from the right) and Chrystal Sponsor. I also stumbled upon statues of Scott and Terry, evidently before one of their boat trips.

It's the last day of my vacation. Tonight I start the journey back to KAF. So bummed.

*expensive
**Hong Kong has these really cool skyways on the major streets so that you can walk and cross in safety. It's great for pedestrians and traffic; the street-side shop and restaurant propietors probably don't like them so much.

Ramp Ceremonies

2010-07-14T03:47:00.001-07:00

When a service member from KAF dies, the military conducts a “Ramp Ceremony” to repatriate the body. In the first 72 hours I was here I attended two Ramp Ceremonies. Although it’s not necessary for all of us to be present every time, we do want someone from the USO to show our support at every Ramp Ceremony.

The observance takes place as soon as a flight is available. Since the goal is to have the service member’s remains heading home within 24 hours, the Ceremony can occur any time of the day or night. When the service member dies, the flags are lowered to half-staff; they stay that way until the plane leaves with the remains.

The Ceremony, which takes 15-20 minutes, begins as the C-17 arrives. Immediately the engines stop, cargo from the plane is emptied and the interior swept out. At the Ceremonies I attended the remains arrived on MRAPs (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected [armored] vehicles) and were escorted to the back of a C-17 through a corridor of troops, with a color guard, pallbearers and an honor guard. The chaplain says a few words and a prayer, bagpipes play Amazing Grace, the Marine Hymn (or something similar) and a bugle honors with Taps.

Although the first two Ceremonies I attended were for Americans, there were several hundred ISAF troops attending in formation. The USO representatives stand at the back of the officers and VIPs.

Of course I cried during this somber and moving Ceremony. Although my wish is that there would never be another, I’m sure we’ll have many more Ramp Ceremonies to attend. I always will weep.

29 April, 0230: Thomas E. Rivers, Jr., US Marine, age 22
30 April, 1030: Salvadore S. Corma; US Army, age 24
3 May, early PM: Mark W. Coleman, US Army, age
5 May, early AM: Douglas Craig Blake, Canadian Navy, age 37
5 May, 1730: Brandon A. Barrett, US Marine, age 27
6 May, 1750: Wade A. Slack, US Army, age 21,
7 May, 0400: Richard R. Penny, US Marine, age 21
7 May, 1230: Christopher Rangel, US Marine, age 22
8 May, 2020: Joshua Davis, US Marine, age 19
11 May, 0000: Kurt S. Shea, US Marine, age 21
12 May, 1520: Jeffrey W. Johnson, US Marine, age 21
12 May, 1520: Kenneth B. May, Jr., US Marine, age 26
13 May, 0415: Joshua D. Desforges, US Marine, age 23
13 May, 0415: Donald J. Lamar II, US Marine, age 23
14 May, 0700: Valerica Sandu Leu, Romanian Army, age 31
14 May, 1035: Kevin McKay, Canadian Army, age 24
16 May, 2315: Nicholas D. Paradarodriguez, US Marine, age 29
17 May, 2320: Zarian Wood, US Marine, age 29
18 May, 1715: Adam Perkins, US Marine, age 27
18 May, 1715: Billy G. Anderson, US Army, age 20
19 May, 0745: Patrick Xavier, Jr., US Marine, age 24
19 May, 1445: Philip P. Clark, US Marine, age 19
19 May, 1445: Shane S. Barnard, US Army, age 38
20 May, 0930: Geoff Parker, Canadian Army, age 42
23 May: None: Jason Fingar, US Army, age 24 (no RC by order of FP)
26 May: 0700: Larry John Zuidema Rudd, Canadian Army, age 26
28 May: 1100: Jacob C. Leight, US Marine, age 24
30 May: ????: Jake W. Suter, US Marine, age 18
31 May: 0410: Anthony A. Dilisio, US Marine, age 20
2 June: 0525: Jonathan K. Peney, US Army Ranger, age 22
5 June: 0005: Joseph J. Thienert, US Army, age 24
7 June: 1320: Brandon C. Bury, US Marine (NH), age 26
7 June: 1320: Derek Hernandez, US Marine (NH), age 20
7 June: 1320: Donald M. Marler, US Marine (NH), age 22
7 June: 1320: Michael E. McGahan, US Army, age 23
8 June: 0215: Martin Goudreault, Canadian Army, age 35
8 June: 0800: Brendan P. Neenan, US Army, age 21
8 June: 0800: John K. Rankel, US Marine, age 23
9 June: 1630: Zachary J. Walters, US Marine, age 24
9 June: 1630: Derek L. Shanfield, US Marine, age 22
10 June: 2015: Michael P. Flores, US Air Force, age 31(closed)
10 June: 2015: Joel C. Gentz, US Air Force, age 25(closed)
10 June: 2015: David C. Smith, US Air Force, age 26(closed)
10 June: 2015: Benjamin D. White, US Air Force, age 24(closed)
10 June: 2015: Michael G. Plank, US Marine, age 25
11 June: 1435: Gavin R. Brummund, US Marine, age 22
12 June: 2030: Robert Fike, US Army National Guard, age 38
12 June: 2030: Bryan Hoover, US Army National Guard, age 29
12 June: 2030: Christian M. Adams, US Army, (NH/S) age 26
17 June: 0035: Jeffrey R. Standfest, US Marine, age 23
17 June: 0940: Michael C. Bailey, US Marine, age 29
FLAGS WERE DOWN WHEN I LEFT KAF AT 1700 ON 18 JUNE.

BACK ON 16 JULY 2010. MISSED RAMP CEREMONIES FOR 26 US SERVICE PEOPLE WHILE AWAY.

4 August 2010. I haven't listed Ramp Ceremonies since I've been back from PTO. Deaths of American and NATO troops in Afghanistan have risen dramatically and there is at least one RC every day. Sometimes we show up for the RC but are not able to attend because Force Protection does not want too many people on the tarmac. For the horrific list of updated casualties check out http://www.icasualties.org/OEF/Fatalities.aspx.

KYL HK

2010-07-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

Since I had to fly from Xi'an to Beijing to catch my flight to Hong Kong (see previous post), the wake-up call for my last day in China was at 0500. Yeah, that 0500. The cab driver took a route to the airport that I had not previously travelled, where we passed through neighborhoods that were not officially authorized to be seen by foreign visitors.

I was upgraded to Business Class on the flight from Beijing to Hong Kong which I thought was a stroke of good luck until I realized I was sitting in a row with a woman wearing a head scarf and her three sons, ages (I'm guessing) 11, 9 and 4. The boys were running all over the plane, standing, squirming, complaining and screaming the entire flight. Obviously the lady didn't realize there were other passengers on the airplane. It wasn't so bad that I didn't enjoy the extra leg room, wider seat, better meal and more solicitous service. I was also surprised to find that a trip that takes 3.5 hours in Economy Class takes only 2.25 hours in Business Class. I don't know how they do that, but it's true.

Jon Zinke, our partner in Hong Kong, had arranged for a car and driver to greet me at the airport. He took me to Jon and Ellen's flat, where I made myself comfortable in the gorgeous surroundings with spectacular view until Jon and Ellen arrived home from work.

Hong Kong is one hoppin' city. It's beautiful, clean, organized, has great public transportation, lots and lots of brand new high rise office and residential buildings, very little corruption, wonderful shopping and almost everyone speaks English. I visited the office where Betty showed me the new 40th anniversary KY&L watches. Alas, I wasn't there ten minutes before they put me to work.

The last evening Jon, Ellen, Betty, her husband, Kinmon(sp?) and I had drinks, watched the nightly light show and ate an amazing dinner at the Royal Yacht Club.

Jon and Ellen are spectacular and gracious hosts who have showered me with gifts and are treating me like visiting royalty. They are fun, kind and generous . . . and they have indoor plumbing!

Army of Clay

2010-07-13T19:00:00.001-07:00

It’s difficult to believe that the Terracotta Warriors were just discovered in 1974. They have definitely earned their place as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

Sunday in the Park

2010-07-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

Before heading to the Terracotta Warriors we stopped in the park to join the local citizens dancing, exercising, walking their birds, congregating, knitting, playing, singing, strumming, strolling and having a lovely day hanging out, communing with nature and interacting with their friends and members of their community.

Xi'an

2010-07-13T18:44:00.000-07:00

After catching a flight from Beijing to Xi'an we stopped at the Shaanxi History Museum. That evening we had an “American Style” dinner (no lazy Susan) and watched a professional music and dance performance before heading to bed, exhausted.

The Other Kotel

2010-07-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

The Great Wall . . .was. The weather was cool, so hiking up a gate or two was not a problem, although it reminded me how much my body and I miss Signal Hill. The best part was that I became a legend following a deal I made with an adorable salesman for a pair of jade earrings (the "Shoppers' Hero").

After visiting the wall we headed through drizzle to the Main Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs and stopped in the pouring rain to take pictures of the Birds’ Nest, the 2008 Olympic Stadium. (Brandon took pictures with my camera; I stayed dry and warm in the bus.)

The Kids are Alright

2010-07-13T01:23:00.001-07:00

Chinese kids love to have their picture taken. The parents are always cooperative and everyone thanks me profusely after I’ve taken the photograph. (I know the boy with the noodles is a repeat, but I just love that picture.) For your information, they think we all look alike.

Summer Palace, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

2010-07-13T01:11:00.000-07:00

Gate 1 Travel Buddies

2010-07-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

This is us: Gene, Rochelle, Lance and Joshua from Chicago; Spiro and Adriana from Toronto; Eb, Elaine, Rebecca and Brandon from New London, Ontario; Zack, Anne, Mary, Jacob and Shanta from Charlotte, North Carolina and India; Pablo from Peru/New York; Jennifer and Deborah from Toronto (eh!); Ruby, Ross, Elenita and Adiran from the Philippines and Hillsborough, California; Grace (our fearless leader) from Beijing and me (working on my blog).

The Night Market (SKIP THIS IF YOU HAVE A DELICATE STOMACH)

2010-07-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

After returning to our hotel and grabbing a bite to eat, Deborah, Jennifer and I took a cab to the world famous Night Market, a crowded cacophony of local families, tourists and merchants. All I can say is, if it looks like octopus, squid, lamb testicles, live crickets, scorpions, silk worms, lobster, snake, tarantula, sea cucumber, star fish, tripe, crab, seahorse, frog, bull penises, shrimp, abalone, centipede, ostrich, shark, pigeon or sea urchin . . . then it is. We bought a skewer of fruit.

I love the name of this store.

Beijing

2010-07-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 7 July 2010.
We took an early morning flight from Shanghai to Beijing, boarded a bus for lunch and then visited the Pandas and Temple of Heaven. Beijing, another gigantic cosmopolitan city, reminds me of Costa Mesa on steroids: countless new buildings occupied by international mega-banks and financial companies.

Venice East

2010-07-12T18:38:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday, 6 July, I took the optional excursion to Suzhou, an ancient city built on and surrounded by a moat. Our boat ride was relaxing and informative. We saw some houses which Scottie (our city guide) assured us sold for $2-$3-$4 million USD and we also encountered some slums. In Suzhou we visited a silk factory where we saw worms, cocoons, ladies spinning thread and girls making duvets. Two of the workers were arguing so viciously I was afraid they’d come to blows in front of us. Grace told us that they weren’t fighting at all, just talking very loudly, as Chinese typically do. The factory is adjacent to a huge store where I tried on some blouses and jackets, but (again) did not buy anything (yay me some more!). We ate Chinese lunch American-style and then toured The Master-of-Nets, a relatively small garden built by a local dignitary 2,500 years ago and refurbished 400 years ago. The sign says, “Everybody has the responsibility to protect the planting” [or antique, or grass]; Chinese translation for “Don’t touch,” “Keep off,” or “Don’t pick the flowers.”

All around China and in the cities are thousands of people riding bicycles, motorized bikes, mopeds and small motorcycles, all with boxes, bags, suitcases and rolls of personal belongings loaded on the front, back and bench. Many had children or other passengers riding on the seat or the handlebars. Riders were dressed in business clothes, shorts with tank tops, skirts, sandals, high-heels, flip-flops or party attire. I saw exactly one person wearing a helmet.
Driving back into Shanghai I saw slums and shantytowns in the shadow of hundreds of new skyscrapers being constructed.

Furmished, Part 2 and It's Not the Same

2010-07-12T18:25:00.000-07:00

5 July 2010
Grace, our tour director, told me I would receive a 6:30 a.m. wake-up call so I would have time to shower, dress and eat breakfast before our 7:45 orientation. I woke up to go to the bathroom and found that it was 7:23 a.m.!! After freaking out, I called Grace (no answer) and then the front desk, where the Chinese lady on duty assured me that it was 7:25 a.m. I took a fast shower and rushed upstairs to the restaurant. Only the staff was there. I asked the guys what time it was, pointing to my wrist and showing them the time on my phone. No one had a watch and there were no clocks anywhere, so finally the waiter found the charge card machine which showed the current time as 5:40 a.m. Although I had reset my phone upon arrival according to instructions from the pilot of the airplane, somehow I ended up two hours ahead. I went back to sleep for an hour.

Shanghai is beautiful. Parts of it look like Chinatown San Francisco, but mostly it looks like any enormous American or European city with modern buildings, thousands of skyscrapers and drivers trying to run you down if you dare to step into the street. There are many more Volkswagens (Passats!) than any other make of car, and I did see one Maserati. Our hotel, just across from the Wusong River, is in the Bund, the former “Wall Street” of the foreign powers. Adjacent stores include Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Cartier, Chanel and Prada.

We visited the beautiful Yuyuan Garden, built during the Ming Dynasty, a carpet factory/workshop, where I saw a design I loved, but did not buy (yay me!), had lunch Chinese-style, took a paper cutting class at the community center (I didn’t make the tiger, but I could if I had better scissors), had Chinese dinner American-style, and watched Chinese Acrobats.

[I don’t care that I’m having fun or how nice this city is, I’m writing on Word because I cannot open my blog or Facebook in China; not even with a proxy website. That’s a big deal, particularly this day after American Independence Day. I do take our freedom and civil liberties for granted. ]

Here's My Sign

2010-07-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

3 July 2010
My trip to China started on two left feet. As I was packing and reviewing my itinerary I noticed that our last stop was in Xian, not Beijing. I booked my flight from Beijing, so I had to buy a ticket from Xian to Beijing to catch a flight to Hong Kong. Ugh. “It’s my own damn fault.”

On the way to the airport Scott, Wendy and I went to dinner at The Rock, the Air Force base near Camp Virginia. On the way I waved good-bye to the Kuwaiti camels for the last time. We showed our CAC (ID cards) when we left Camp Virginia, when we went through security at LSA, when we entered Ali Al Salem, going into The Rock and at the DFac. After we had dinner and watched Germany thrash Argentina, our IDS were checked three more times: when we left The Rock, leaving Ali Al Salem and exiting LSA.

The airport drop-off and terminal was crowded. I waited in line for my boarding pass for 50 minutes, before I went through security and on to immigration. The control officer asked for my passport, and since I don’t have a Kuwaiti visa, she also wanted my military ID. I looked all over, went through my backpack 1,253 times and couldn’t find it! When I turned on my phone I saw that Scott had called. They had made it almost back to Camp Virginia, noticed that they had my CAC, and immediately returned to the airport. Scott and Wendy were waiting for me at the entrance, so I grabbed my ID and was able to go through immigration without further incident. Thank you, Scott and Wendy. Indeed you are angels!

Eat Dirt and Mattie's Back!

2010-07-03T01:55:00.000-07:00

It's been fun working at Camp Virginia between vacations. I get to see my pals Scott and Wen, make some new friends and visit my buddies at the library (did I mention that there's no library at KAF?!?!?). Unfortunately for me the bathroom is 200 steps from the CHU where I'm staying (ahahhhhh) and I had forgotten how nasty the weather is in Kuwait. The whole time I've been here it's been over 120 degrees with wind gusts upwards of 30 MPH. Visiting the porta-pottie is always special, but the experience is beyond spectacular when the seat is burning hot and the entire interior is covered in sand.

-o0o-

SSGT Matthews went out on sick leave a couple of days before I left for Kandahar. He's been gone this whole time (it's a long story), but he returned to Camp Virginia just in time so I could give him a huge hug. SFC Moreno, his best friend and mentor, is happy Mattie is back too. In fact everyone is happy Mattie's back. Yay!!

Breakfast and the Jewish Cemetery

2010-06-29T23:22:00.000-07:00

Our last day in Salzwedel we had a delicious and enormous breakfast fit for royalty, cooked, prepared and presented by Roland, the proprietor of the hotel, who also performed a magic trick with our apple.

On the way to catch the train we stopped by the Jewish cemetery. The cemetery was lush and peaceful, due to the fact that most of the markers are overgrown. Apparently, friends and families are responsible for keeping the foliage trimmed and since there are very few Jews left in Salzwedel . . . It should be noted that the non-Jewish cemetery was equally overgrown. Most heartrending at the Jewish cemetery was the line of graves of people who had died just days after the liberation of the camps.

Stolperstein

2010-06-29T05:59:00.001-07:00

The purpose of our trip to Germany was to lay Stolperstein ("stumbling block") stones in front of the store/apartment which was the last place my grandparents, Tobias and Betty Bachenheimer had lived as free citizens. Stolperstein are small stones, hand-made by artist Gunter Demnig, for each single victim of the Nazis. Although my father and two uncles escaped Germany, they too were victims, so we included stones for them as well. Gunter told us that he has put in over 25,000 stones so far.

The laying of our Stolpersteins had been set for noon on Saturday. Unfortunately, through some tight scheduling, we ended up getting there at 11:55. Upon arrival we observed about 30 people, including townspeople, elected officials, and numerous print and broadcast journalists. When we saw that the installation had begun, three of us burst into tears. (I can't wait to see those pictures from the newspaper.)

Gunter fit the stones into the cobblestone sidewalk in front of the building, adding a pebble that Ra'anan had brought from his father's grave in Israel. It was heartbreaking and poignant for all of us.

A couple of hours after laying the stones we attended a ceremony in a former church where a youth choir sang, Toby, Gina, Ra'anan, Idan and I read tributes, Herr Kaiser and Dr. Ernst Block* spoke. The whole time we were in Salzewedel we were treated like visiting diplomats.

Paste into your browser:
http://www.salzwedel.de/stadt/oeffentlichkeit/100626stolpersteinverlegung.html

If you hit “Translate” at the upper right, the article is rather comical.

*Dr. Block has written a painstakingly researched book about the Jews of Salzwedel entitled Wirwareneine Glückliche Familie . . . I have the book, which contains numerous Bachenheimer photographs and documents, including Uncle Kurt's picture on the front. The book is written in German.

Salzwedel

2010-06-29T03:39:00.000-07:00

On Friday, the six of us took the train to Salzwedel, where my dad had lived with his mother, father and two brothers. Salzwedel is a hamlet of approximately 20,000 citizens located in the north of Germany, near Hamburg. Upon our arrival, the town archivest, Mr. Langusch, who had been corresponding with Gina, took us on a walking/dragging-our-luggage tour of the 750 year old city. It's easy to imagine that Salzwedel looks that same as it did 100 years ago: the streets and sidewalks are cobblestone, the building façades are old-fashioned and there are few cars to be seen. The clothes and shoes in the storefront windows seem to be throwbacks to the 70s. (OK, they're not 100 years old, but could be.)

Salzwedel is famous for its baumkuchen, a cake shaped like a tree (which I liked a lot). Our quaint, but newly-remodeled hotel is across the street from the Bachenheimers' last apartment/store (although the building had been demolished and replaced). At dinner in a local restaurant we lit shabbat candles, recited the blessing and said the kiddush over German wine.

The next morning we met a woman who had owned and run a bookstore across the street for over 50 years. She remembered playing with my dad and two uncles and also remembered seeing their store windows shattered and contents plundered the day after Kristallnacht. We then took a more comprehensive walking tour with Herr Kaiser (the vice-mayor) and his English/German speaking daughter, Pia, which included the actual apartment where my dad and his family had lived in the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Trains of No Return

2010-06-27T23:57:00.000-07:00

Friday morning we surprised Ra'anan and Idan when they arrived at the airport. After dropping off their luggage at the hotel we set off for Platform 17.

Our visit to Platform 17 was unsettling. Jews who had been relocated to Berlin boarded the box cars that would take them to the extermination camps at Platform 17. Except for the memorials, Platform 17 looks like it did in the 1940s. There are hundreds of placques on the ground indicating the number of Jews transported on each particular day; some placques list 50; some over 1,100. My grandparents, Tobias and Betty Bachenheimer, were transported from Berlin on 14 April 1942 along with 65 other Jews.

Paste Ofra Haza into your browser at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u61zE-0mb_4&feature=related

Yeah, yeah yeah, we need the rain
Yeah, yeah yeah, to wash the trains
Endless nights
Tortured days
Trains of no return

Law-El ani agraw aneni
Avka bachawl lailaw aneni
Ten tal umawtawr aneni
Oh aneni Oh
[To God I call, please answer me
I cry every night, answer me
Give us dew and rain, answer me
answer me]

Oh, don't let them grow again
Oh, no not again
Don't let them roll again
The trains of no return

Yeah, yeah yeah, we need the rain
Yeah, yeah yeah, to wash the trains
Endless nights
Tortured days
Trains of no return

Law-El ani agraw aneni
Aneni, aneni
Sham za'aku kolot anenu
Sham za'aku kolot anenu
Ba'aru orot anenu
Ba'aru orot anenu
Ba'aru orot anenu
Netzach Yisrael anenu
Hu lo y'shaker
Kawl ha'or kawl hachoshech
Sheyoter mikawl ra'u eich
Din ha'Elohim molech
Hem gam mevakshim
[To God I call, answer me
Answer me, answer me
Their voices cried out, answer us
Lights burned, answer us
Eternal One of Israel, answer us
He will not fail us
All the light, all the darkness
Which more than anything, saw how
The law of God rules
They also plead]

Yeah, yeah yeah, we need the rain
Yeah, yeah yeah, to wash the trains
Endless nights
Tortured days
Trains of no return
Don't let them grow again
Don't let them burn again
Don't let them roll again
The trains of no return
We need the rain
Don't let them grow again
Don't let them burn again
Don't let them roll again

Hotel Hansablick and Walkin' the Walk

2010-06-27T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Hansablick, which had been recommended by Gina who had stayed there numerous times, is a turn-of-the-century Old-Berlin townhouse which has been transformed into a hotel and art gallery. We found our friend Peter or the "The Pretty Guy" at the front desk. Peter was just fabulous, but was too shy to allow a photograph. The Pretty Guy was mostly nice and pretty.

In the morning Toby and I headed off for a tour, where we joined Berlin Walks with Jakob, a Hugh Grant look-alike and probably the best tour guide in Berlin. Jakob took us to the Berlin Wall, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Bebelplatz (scene of the Nazi bookburning), Ghost Station, the War Memorial, and many, many other places. Along the way he fed us an encyclopedia of facts, was informative and entertaining. Jakob managed to handle a lot of delicate subjects with discretion and tact.

Later we met Gina at the Jewish Museum, where we saw an exhibit on Jewish creators of comic books and graphic novels. After a short rest we had a long* dinner with Gina and John at a wonderful Italian bistro where the propietor took the "beans" out of the fish before he served it to us.

*Germany was playing football.

Sachsenhausen

2010-06-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday Toby, Gina and I visited Sachsenhausen, the Nazi concentration camp just 35 km from Berlin. Although our visit was necessary, it was disturbing for countless reasons. On the train we passed pristine forests, turned sinister by the memory of the death marches. Taking the short walk from the train station to the camp we passed houses that were there in the 1940s; prisoners walked the same streets to the trains and factories, passing homes occupied by families, every day.

Over 30,000 people died at Sachsenhausen due to overwork, illness, exhaustion, disease and extermination. There is a grassy area near the entrance set aside for memorials erected by families of the victims. These days the camp is somewhat sterile, with most of the buildings, including the barracks, laundry, mess hall, infirmary, morgue, prison and guard houses turned into museum-like exhibits.

KAF to Camp Virginia to KWI to Berlin

2010-06-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Travel from KAF to LSA/Kuwait was quite uneventful. I was on a C17, so the trip was shorter than if we'd been on a C130. The plane was air conditioned, not very full and quite comfortable. We were allowed to remove our IBAs upon leaving Afghan air space (after about 30 minutes), although I used my vest to prop up my head, so I kept mine on a little longer.

When the ramp was opened in Kuwait it felt like someone had left the oven on. I forgot what 130+ degrees feels like. My eyeballs were hot.

It was great to work the counter at the USO, see my buddies Scott and Wen, get out to a mall and eat at a restaurant. Thanks guys.

Travel to Berlin via Istanbul was also uneventful. I have no idea how long it took since the time changed a couple of times and I was not keeping track. The first day in Berlin I checked into Lindemann's, had my hair colored by an old Turkish man, and then got a pedicure from a certified sadist who put the color on way too thick, so it bubbled. Toby arrived that night.

Our first day in Berlin, Toby and I took a hop-on/hop-off bus tour, with river cruise. We saw many historic sights, including churches, Check Point Charlie, parliament and numerous museums. We learned a lot about Berlin, then got a cab to the Hansablick Hotel to meet my cousin Gina and her husband John.

John, Gina, Toby and I had dinner at a lovely Greek sidewalk cafe. Gina's German is excellent, but not perfect. The waiter could not understand why she was asking if the fish we ordered had beans inside. She later learned the correct word for "bones."

Our entire visit to Germany is backdroped to the World Cup, as indeed our Greek dinner took hours since the waiter was "serving" everyone and watching football at the same time. As I'm writing, Germany just beat (such a kind word) England. Twenty minutes ago the streets were empty; now there are fireworks, horns honking, revelers, shouting, sirens and general mayhem.

Unclear on the Concept

2010-06-18T22:26:00.000-07:00

We all have to go through security at the airport, even on "MilAir." The troops put their suitcases, duffel bags and back-packs on the conveyor belt along with their guns, knives, scissors and other weapons. Then they take out their phones, keys and iPods and step through the metal detector, after which their phones, keys, iPods, guns, knives and other weapons are returned so they can take them onto the airplane. And I was worried about my underwire bra.

Who Let the Dogs Out?

2010-06-12T23:18:00.000-07:00

With the opening of our new USO Kandahar center (still shooting for late-July), the duty managers thought we should get a dog mascot/therapy dog/service dog. Our dog (Bob Hope if it's a male; Hope Bob if it's a female) would greet visitors and make everyone feel at home, and would lower the defenses and the blood pressure of everyone with whom he/she came in contact. There would be plenty of people to pet, walk, feed and take care of our four-legged friend. We truly believe a dog would benefit everyone. Joan had T-shirts made to further our cause.

Larry is not quite on board yet.

Shabbat Shalom

2010-06-12T22:36:00.001-07:00

One of the nicest things about KAF is that there are other Jewish people besides me. We get together every Friday evening to light candles, say kiddush and Shabbat prayers and eat dinner. We are an eclectic group: one gentleman converted and is quite knowledgeable; we have a couple of people who are observing and/or thinking about converting and a few of us were raised Jewish (Reform/Conservative).

The first few weeks I was here Air Force Jeremy, who was educated at Stephen S. Wise School in L.A., led the services. His Hebrew is excellent and he sings beautifully. Unfortunately for us, Jeremy completed his deployment and returned home, so we are left with a rag-tag group of 4-6 people, muddling through the prayers and hymns. Even so, we do manage to attain a nice Shabbat feeling and enjoy dinner together.

Once a month Rabbi/Chaplain Joey Messinger visits. When Joey is here we have a complete service, discuss Torah and our numbers and spirit grow considerably. This past Shabbat we hosted a few base chaplains and chaplains' assistants. We serve MREs left over from Passover, which are actually quite tasty. This week I baked for hours (umm, actually I unwrapped some bags of Passover macaroons) so we could have cookies for dessert. We also popped a few cans of oranges and added raisins and cranberries to make fruit salad. We don't have bread, so we've been saying motzi over matzah. The "crackers" and WINE were a huge hit with our visitors.

Our usual lay leader, David W. was home on emergency family leave so he is not included in the pictures. I'll try to add later.

Armed Forces Network: the Innards

2010-06-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday evenings we hold United Through Reading in the Armed Forces Network offices. It's fun to hang around with producers, writers, reporters and photographers as they work. In all my weeks here I've heard absolutely nothing. OK, I do hear some things, but if I admit to that, they'll have to kill me. The guys are so nice and helpful, that I promised to say thank you and pay homage to them on my blog. They are also adorable, so I'm obliged to post pictures. (K-C left before we got his photograph. Darn.)

Peanut Butter

2010-06-06T05:20:00.000-07:00

We recently held our first “Jam Session” at the Boardwalk. Despite sandstorms and cut-up hands, it was a rousing success. Participants came from US Air Force, Marines and Army; Canadian Army, British Army and RAF, contractors and civilians. Nobody played Peter, Paul & Mary (they had never heard of them), but there were some melodies I recognized (sorta). I found out that my friend Joe is an outstanding singer.

Run, Don't Walk

2010-06-06T03:10:00.000-07:00

I volunteered to hand out T-shirts at the 5K/Half-/Full Marathon this morning. Despite the 0445 call time it was fun. It was a typical run, with people leaving their belongings lying around, waiting for pick up after the race.

550 Cord Crafts (Images)

2010-06-06T03:09:00.002-07:00

I really enjoy making 550 Cord cuffs and keychains. It's so relaxing, therapeutic, friendly and fun?

Unit Appreciation Events (Photographs)

2010-06-06T03:09:00.001-07:00

It's easy. We show how much we love them with doughnuts and coffee.

Game Night (Illustrated)

2010-06-06T03:08:00.002-07:00

We're actually having more fun than it looks like we're having.

Typically, Weekly - I Love My Job

2010-06-06T03:07:00.000-07:00

I've been here almost six weeks, and am finally getting into a routine. One reason I have not been posting on my blog is because I'm in charge of keeping our new Facebook page up to date. "Like" us on Facebook at USO Kandahar. (The other reason I have not been posting on my blog is that I'm lazy.)

A typical week looks like this:

On Sundays we like to go to brunch at Harvest Falcon. It's not the Ritz-Carlton (or even the Holiday Inn, for that matter), but the breakfast at HF is still my favorite and they serve brunch until 1400 on Sundays. Sunday evenings I meet with some friends at the CMC (Chaplains' Ministry Center), where we hang out and talk. I like the CMC a lot; partly because USO Kandahar holds some of our programs there, but mostly because it's air-conditioned, has abundant snacks, magazines and books and a lot of nice people have offices at the CMC.

Monday evenings USO Kandahar sponsors Game Night*, where we gather a group to play Scattergories, Taboo, Cranium, Guesstures, or something similar. We hold this in a small English coffee house. Lately there's been so much fun and laughter that other customers have been joining us and the crowd is getting bigger and bigger. Recently KAF was in "Dress State 2," so we had to wear our IBAs during the games, but we still managed to have a great time.*

Tuesday evenings USO Kandahar sponsors United Through Reading in the AFN (Armed Forces Network) offices. At AFN Army (Reserve and Active Duty), Marines, Navy and Air Force work together in close quarters and (not surprisingly) they all seem to get along. Who knew? The people at AFN are so nice and helpful and they always manage to keep us entertained with personal stories and anecdotes. It's fun being there. (I've promised a bigger article with pictures. Hope to get that on here soon.)

Wednesdays USO Kandahar supports United Through Reading at the CMC. We've recently began to bring 550 cord so that we can make crafts while people wait their turn to record a book. Eight to ten of us wind up sitting around a table, chatting, telling jokes, shooting the breeze and just having a lovely time while we make bracelets (aka "cuffs") and key chains for ourselves, families and friends.* It's one of the highlights of my week. I love my job.

Usually on Tuesdays and Thursdays we hold Unit Appreciation Events, where we bring doughnuts and coffee to the troops at their work.* I continue to be staggered by the graciousness, gratefulness and absolute wonderfulness of our armed forces. We are treated like royalty -- because we bring fresh doughnuts! It's gratifying to tell our military how much the people of America apprecite their service. I just love my job.

On Fridays USO Kandahar also supports United Through Reading at the CMC. I recently put out a request for volunteers to assist on Fridays and was rewarded with ten responses. Seven of those ten were able to fit us into their schedule. Every one of the seven showed up and every one of the seven was an awesome volunteer. I really love my job.

Saturdays are reserved for Movie Night. The chaplains pick the movie; USO Kandahar supplies the snacks. Despite the recent Saturday evening attacks, this is a fun and growing event. We recently saw "The Blind Side," "Up" and "To Save A Life," which were all excellent, despite the recent attacks. (Oops; sorry. Did I repeat myself?)

Every day of the week, every person I meet is outstanding, friendly, gracious and considerate. It's all fun; I love my job.

*See lots of pictures in separate articles.

And the Rockets' Red Glare

2010-06-06T02:51:00.001-07:00

There have been entirely too many rocket attacks on KAF.

Some time ago I was sitting in an office with a friend when we heard the siren. About 2 second later we hear ka-boom in the distance; 5 seconds after that: KA-BLAM!! Too close. Turns out one mortar had hit one of the service facilities. We heard sirens and helicopters and found that two workers had been injured. Pick-up services were unavailable for a few days due to "incident" and part of the building was missing, but when I was finally able to collect my clothes I found that my jeans, T-shirts, underwear and socks were clean and unharmed.

USO Kandahar's recent Movie Night was interrupted by rocket attacks and the first ground assault in anyone's memory. About eight of us are watching "The Blind Side" when the alarm went off. We didn't stop the movie, but we did slither off of the chairs and couches, down to the floor. We hear ka-boom in the distance, wait two minutes and then get back onto our seats. A couple of minutes later the alarm goes off again, so we glide back down to flat on the ground. We watch the movie from the prone position for two minutes then crawl back up to our seats. About 15 seconds later we hear KA-BLAM!!! (very close). I yelled "GOLLY DARN!!" (or something similar) and we all slide back onto the floor. That was about as loud as I've heard. Turns out the mortar landed in a public place, across the street, about 150 yards away. The structure was damaged, there were quite a few injured parties, and worse.

The rockets and ground fire continued for at least 5 hours, with us sliding from our chairs to the floor and back up, several times. There were garbled announcements every ten minutes, including parts or all of:

KAF is being attacked from the north.
Seek shelter indoors.
Force Protection is monitoring the situation.
Stay away from the perimeter.

After the end of the movie we stayed where we were for awhile, then decided to make a dash for our MODs (bed, computers, restrooms) just 200 yards away. On the first try we stepped out and were met by a car of MPs who told us to GET BACK INSIDE! For our second attempt we walked very quickly and made it about 90% of the way before we were stopped short in our tracks (and I mean STOPPED) by troops with guns aimed at our heads, shining bright lights in our faces. When we identified ourselves as USO they became much more friendly and directed us to the nearest bunker.

After about 30 minutes in the bunker the announcement came that everyone (except Force Protection and Marines with weapons) were allowed to go back to their housing units. The broadcasts continued all night. The next couple of days there were troops guarding the fences and scores of helicopters and drones in the sky. We had to wear our battle gear twice for 12 hours at a time. The "All Clear" finally came in the middle of the night (at 0300), 55 hours after the attack had begun.

Since then we've had about six attacks a week. People tend to take the alarms seriously after they've seen a missile flying 30 feet above their heads. It's not unusual to find everyone on base hitting the gravel, street or floor, lying in the rocks with our hands over our heads, then running for the bunkers or a protected area. Unfortuantely, we know from recent experience that the mortars can penetrate the tents and modular units.

I'm intentinally omitting a lot of specific events and numerous details due to OPSEC, but I think you get the picture.

Editorial

2010-05-21T23:16:00.000-07:00

Something that has bothered me since I've been in Southwest Asia is the issue of bootleg movies. Yes, the troops do not have access to the new movies and television shows they want to watch, but that does not give them permission to purchase bootleg copies of the DVDs. Since I'm from Southern California and I do have friends in the entertainment industry, I may be somewhat sensative, but I cannot get over the fact that purchasing bootleg DVDs is stealing.

It seems worse at KAF than it was at Camp Virginia. There is a bazaar at KAF every Saturday. The local merchants sell beautiful rugs, tapestry, wooden chests, jewelry, trinkets and antiques. They also sell "copies" of designer handbags, "reproductions" of expensive watches, and "replicas" of fashionable scarves and pashminas. However, the biggest sellers are the thousands and thousands of DVDs of televison shows, concerts and movies --- all pirated copies. Of course everyone who's ever worked on, been involved with or contributed to these movies and TV shows is stinkin' rich, but that doesn't give us permission to steal their product. I understand that it's more expensive and takes more time to obtain these titles from Amazon, NetFlix or a legitimate distributor; it's a bother to open the security sealed package and a nuisance to watch the trailers and FBI warning. But lack of convenience doesn't give us permission to take what is not ours.

I've been bitching about this situation since I arrived. I've refused to show, buy or watch a pirated movie (altough I did watch one before I knew it was an illegal copy). It seems no one else thinks buying pirated DVDs (purses, watches or scarves) is stealing. I'll no more meddle and judge the issue; this editorial is written and from here on I'll keep my mouth shut.

Stepping down off the soapbox now.

Fine Dining

2010-05-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

As previously noted, Kandahar Air Field has six DFacs (dining facilities):

Far East: The closest to our MOD (modular housing unit/home), an easy walk (no streets to cross) and my "go to" DFac when I just need fuel. There's always a long line for the fresh stir fry, with two choices daily (chicken, beef, pork or turkey). Of all the DFacs, this is the one where I most get chased down, chatted up, hit on or asked out (not necessarily a good thing).

Niagra/The American DFac: It's the second closest to our MOD, the biggest and has American food. I like it, but my co-workers are not fond of the ambiance, so I don't go there with them.

Cambridge/The English DFac: There's a sign outside that says "Fine English Cuisine;" I thought that was an oxymoron. (Sorry Jen.) The food is actually not horrible. I don't go to Cambridge too often because there are not a lot of Americans (although there's some darn cute Brits), they have a curry bar so the place smells like curry, and I sometimes don't know what I'm eating. I've had hoke (some kind of fish), courgettes (looks and tastes a lot like zucchini) and numerous other items that I have to see before I'll eat. However, my main complaint is that they don't have water with gas.

Harvest Falcon: The best food, strangest set-up (see pictures) and most challenging. I especially like breakfast because they have turkey or chicken sausage and cereal in boxes. However, before you walk through a big tent to get your food you need to wash your hands using a foot pump. The large fridge in the back has a sign that says "Milk/Non-Fat Milk/Banana Milk/Strawberry Milk/Chocolate Milk," but every time I open it I find that it's filled with lukewarm boxes of low fat milk. After you get your food you need to walk through a semi-covered rock/sand trail to one of four tents to eat. So first you exit the food tent through plastic slats, then walk on the bumpy path and enter another tent through the door and over a threshhold. It took me a few days to figure out that I should take two cups and fill them halfway with coffee instead of filling one cup all the way, so I wouldn't end up with more coffee on my tray than in my cup. Also, the picnic tables we eat on were "custom" built, so sometimes I sit inches from the floor with my arms held high, other times my feet are dangling while the table hits me in the chest and occasionally I have enough space to fit a person or two on my lap. But the food is pretty good.

North Line: The DFac for the flightline. It's about 20-30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic and if we're driving behind someone following the speed limit (20 km/h). It's mostly American food, seems airier than the other DFacs and is open 24/7, serving sandwiches and other cold foods between meal times. We did have difficulty getting in one day. Even though Joan was wearing closed shoes, toe-cleavage was visable through the design and the gate keeper insisted that she get a "take away" box. After intense discussion, the manager finally allowed her to dine with us, but now Joan wears sox when we go to North Line.

Luxembourg/Candadian DFac: My favorite. It's pretty close, the food is good, the hours are great, they have water with gas, I understand most of what's on the menu, usually the air conditioning is working and since Luxembourg is located next to the garrison/command cell, it's the DFac with the most brass and the only place I've seen a two-star general.

There's also a few restaurants, although you never know when they're going to be closed for repairs, out of food, or temporarily shut down due to lack of running water or recent cases of food poisoning. I went to Mama Mia's for a dinner meeting this week. They don't have water. I couldn't get tap water, or bottled water -- still or with bubbles.

Considering the above, one would think I'd be wasted away to nothing. Fat chance!

(LOL) Hahahahahahahah

2010-05-15T03:22:00.000-07:00

The CMC (chapel annex) receives all kinds of care packages and donations including cookies, toiletries, candy, books, games, lotions, snacks, etc. I saw a box of approximately 20 tubes of Fixodent, large and travel sizes. Rabbi M. said he thought it was toothpaste. He used it but was disappointed when it didn't foam up. The more he brushed the stickier it got. At least Fixodent is kosher.

===========+++++++++++++++++++================

One regular participant in Game Night is our friend Joe (not his real name), a member of the Special Forces from Australia. I think he cheats because when we play Scategories he names all kinds of fruits, games, people and clothes that I've never heard of, but he claims are well-known in Australia. Last week, before we left, I told him, "I hope we see you next week." Here's the rest of the conversation:

Joe: I'll be here unless there's a water fart.
Me: A water fart?
Joe: Yes, for sure I'll see you unless there's a water fart.
Me: A water fart?
Joe: Yes, a water fart.
Me: Huh? Oh! A water fight. You'll be here unless there's a water fight!
Joe: Yes.
Me: What kind of water fight?
Joe: The regular water fight.
Me: Huh?
Joe: (Exasperated.) I may need to do my job.
I'll be at Game Night next week unless there's a war to fight.
Me: Oh. Yeah. A war to fight. Hope to see you next week.
Me: (Exasperated.) Duh.

===========+++++++++++++++++++================

We hear the following warning message about four times a day. It's difficult to understand over the "Great Voice," but I'm pretty sure this is what the guy says:

Standby for a message from the JDC [Pronounced Jay Doc; Joint Doctrine Center]:
There will be a contwolled expwosion southwest of KAF in 15 minutes.
I wepeat.
There will be a contwolled expwosion southwest of KAF in 15 minutes.
End of message.
End of blow job.*

3-5 minutes later: KA-BLAM!!!

*Weeks later I found out from some guys while waiting in the bunker that it says, "End of broadcast." I like my way better.

The Ballad of Balad

2010-05-06T23:26:00.000-07:00

My new favorite Toby Keith song:

Well I quit school in the tenth grade and I grew out my hair.
I got me a job doin' lawn mower repair.
I met an army recruiter down at the Winn-Dixie.
He said son you've no future, pack up and go with me.

Well the first place we landed was a base called Balad.
They convoyed our asses to a 10 acre FOB.
With my boots and my cover and an old M-16,
two bottles of water and a cold MRE.

(Chorus)
Oh, you meet lots of new friends and you're sure to get paid.
We'll show you the world and we'll teach you a trade.
It's not a job, it's an adventure. Oh yes sir I got that.
Oh but you never told me I'd get my ass shot at.
You never told me I'd get my ass shot at.

The first night in combat we went on patrol.
They ambushed our convoy and we chased the assholes.
We found them all hidin' in the water ditches.
And we took aim and killed all them son of a bitches.

(Chorus)
Oh, you meet lots of new friends and you're sure to get paid.
We'll show you the world and we'll teach you a trade.
It's not a job, it's an adventure, Oh yes sir I got that,
Oh but you never told me I'd get my ass shot at.
You never told me I'd get my ass shot at.

Walked in on my buddy with a female MP.
Ugliest woman that you've ever seen.
He said why are you laughin', you've got lots of nerve.
Over here in the desert, we grade on the curve.

(Chorus)
Oh, you meet lots of new friends and you're sure to get paid.
We'll show you the world and we'll teach you a trade.
It's not a job, it's an adventure, Oh yes sir I got that,
Oh but you never told me I'd get my ass shot at.
You never told me I'd get my ass shot at.

TOBY!!!!!

2010-05-06T10:36:00.001-07:00

What's Wrong with this Picture?*

2010-05-06T04:35:00.000-07:00

The USO recently brought coffee, doughnuts and muffins for a Unit Appreciation Event at the Medivac compound. I could hear again and again, "Thank you for everything you do.", "We really appreciate your service.", "We are so grateful you're here.", "This is just wonderful." That was what the TROOPS WERE SAYING TO THE USO!! I told one soldier she had it backwards. The USO and the American people are most grateful. I continue to be flabbergasted at the humility of our armed forces. We are so blessed!

*There's nothing wrong with the pictures.

USO at KAF

2010-05-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

The USO tent at Kandahar Air Field will soon be up and running. The tent was almost fully constructed but then obliterated in the Great/Stinky Flood of February 2010. We've moved to a much better location but since we need to construct a brand new tent our opening is delayed from mid-April to (hopefully) mid-July. In the meantime we are hosting Unit Appreciation Events (UAEs) where we bring pizza, doughnuts, muffins, bagels, coffee etc. so that we can introduce ourselves and the USO. We also have United Through Reading at three locations every week, movie nights once per week, game nights, and other events.

There is one "USO in a Box" adjacent to previous tent location. USO in a Box is a small trailer with two phones, two computers with Internet, one working X-box and a two-seat theater.

There are four Duty Managers (Leslie, Erin, Joan and me) and one Center Manager (Larry). Leslie, Joan, Erin and Larry all worked together at Camp Buehring in Kuwait. I'm learning their routines and becoming familiar with their approach.

Heroes Among Us

2010-05-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

I was facilitating United Through Reading at the Armed Forces Network offices when a young Army Captain came in to read to his four daughters. (He looked 26, but said he was 32.) He had a German last name, so we were comparing length (his is only 11 letters), discussing his family's story in America, my planned trip to Germany, etc. As we chatted a little more I found that he is actually a Combat Surgeon. While he was reading behind closed doors, the Air Force NCO helping me said that the young Captain was part of a story AFN had aired recently that showed him performing surgery while on a helicopter, trying to save the leg of a critically injured soldier during an evacuation from the field. Ultimately the soldier's life was saved, but his leg was not.

When the Captain was done reading we spoke more about the effects that such a grave injury would have on the soldier, his family and his life. The Captain said over and over how indebted he was to our soldiers, how much he admired them and how they are giving up so much. He didn't seem to realize that taking a helicopter into hostile territory and putting his life on the line to rescue his comrades was courageous on his part.

-o0o-

While I was getting set up there were some guys laying carpet tiles. It turned out that they had to trim one of the tiles about 1/4" to fit. How many armed forces does it take to trim one carpet tile? Three Marine enlisted with scissors, two Army officers using a knife and one Air Force NCO to supervise. At least the carpet fits flat.

-o0o-

We had three (3) rocket attacks within a 24-hour period. It gets boring and stuffy hanging out in the bunkers.

-o0o-

I love my job.

First Impressions (Probably TMI)

2010-05-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

Kandahar Air Field (KAF) in Afghanistan is very different from Camp Virginia (CV) in Kuwait. There are approximately ten times more inhabitants at KAF. While the military made up 80-90% of the population at CV, it appears that 40% of the population at KAF is contractors, DOD civilians or TCNs. CV had one DFac and one PX; there are 8-10 DFacs and 6-8 PXes at KAF. At CV I had a room to myself. Here I’m in a MOD (modular housing unit?) that I’m sharing with three other Duty Managers (although one is on vacation), with probably two more arriving soon. Fortunately the toilets and showers are 35 steps down the hall instead of 128 steps outside, across the street, through the alleyway, way over there.

At KAF there are (coalition) International Security Assistance Forces consisting of US Marines, Army, Navy and Air Force along with military from Canada, Great Brittan, Romania, the Netherlands, France and Australia, among others. All forces wear the ISAF patch. I thought I saw some pudgy Marines, but they turned out to be Army from another country (that I will not name) with BDUs similar to the US Marines. At dinner one night we saw some French soldiers. Their uniforms are tighter than those of the US and the shirts (at least for summer) have short sleeves. After seeing their hunky military I’m rethinking my opinion of the French.

Near the PAX terminal are numerous airplanes, helicopters and other intriguing contraptions. (These pictures are from the Internet since we can’t take pictures of the aircraft or the airfield at KAF.) As we passed over the airstrip on the way to dinner the first night, just one hundred yards away I saw/heard/felt a rocket take off. I found out later that it was an F16. I’ve seen/heard/felt it quite a few times since. Each time it’s a spectacular, pride- and goose bumps-creating event. Since I grew up in the flight path of LAX and live close to the engine testing of Boeing and the take-off corridor of LGB, it’s nice to reacquaint myself with the sounds of the jets, planes, helicopters and everything else that flies.

At the center of the base is the world-famous boardwalk. This is a large square area surrounded by shops, restaurants and services (embroidery, barber, laundry, etc.) adjacent to a wooden promenade. Unfortunately, and as you may know, a lot of the fun places (Pizza Hut, Burger King, Subway) are now closed in compliance with orders from General McChrystal. The center of the boardwalk is a large dirt area with basketball and volleyball courts, a hockey rink (with a giant red maple leaf) and football/soccer field.

Just down from the boardwalk is the equally world-famous (infamous?) Poo-Pond, a lovely lagoon surrounded by rocks, sand, caution and bio-hazard signs. There are picturesque fountains throughout the lake, spewing aromatic water into the atmosphere 24/7, ensuring that no one on base is robbed of this charming bouquet.

At KAF there’s not much lighting, so it’s pretty dark at night. The USO has two old cars, with the steering wheels on the right. We went to TGIFriday’s for dinner one evening. Before ordering it's always necessary to ask what they didn’t have since it’s so difficult to get supplies here. The day we went they didn’t have any salads or hamburgers. Even though the DFacs are open until 0900(!), I’ve been missing breakfast and a lot of other meals. Consequently I’ve been existing on Green Beans’ triple espresso Chai latte over ice and Nacho Slim Jims. Not healthy by anyone’s standards.

There's traffic here; traffic jams and horns honking. Oh yeah, and my blog Dashboard that used to come up in Arabic is now appearing in Chinese. Makes perfect sense to me.

Flying Incognito

2010-05-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

Joan and my journey from KWI to KAF (Kandahar Air Field) was uneventful, albeit a bit unusual. Our flight was not listed on the Departures board at the airport. There was no indication of our destination at the gate and no announcements that our flight was leaving. When we passed through to board, the ticket agent asked the destination of each passenger. The airplane was plain white with no identifying markings. There were three delightful flight attendants who I’m guessing were from Spain since they spoke Spanish to each other. They passed out snacks and soft drinks on the first leg and they served a meal on the second leg, but there was no movie or music. Our flight took from 0800 until 1500 because we stopped to refuel in Dubai and mostly because we couldn't fly direct because that would take us over Iran and there's no going through Iranian air space. We landed at PAX terminal at KAF and went easily through security with our CACs. Thereafter Larry (Center Manager) and Erin (fellow Duty Manager) picked us up and took us to our rooms so we could begin our Afghanistan Adventure.

Kuwait to Kandahar

2010-04-25T22:54:00.000-07:00

As I’m looking forward to the next challenging phase in Afghanistan, this seems like a good time to reflect on my past 14+ months at Camp Virginia. I’m going to miss our small-town atmosphere, the gracious permanent parties, the transient troops and TCNs who so courteously do so much yuck work on base; I’ll miss Reveille, To the Colors, Taps, drills for Incoming and Ground Attacks. (Or maybe I won’t miss those; the same, only more so, in Kandahar.)

At Camp Virginia I’ve learned new things: Chrystal Light in my back pocket feels like a knife in the butt; I’ve picked up some good habits: praying before eating, washing my hands a lot; and I’ve collected some bad ones: toothpicks. There have been some surprises: I don’t curse any more than I did before I came here. I’ve met personal challenges: prevailing over some fears and recognizing that sometimes change is good. So far I have kept the promise I made to myself that I would not eat any donuts. I have travelled more these past 14 months than I could ever dream. I know too much for a woman my age about Call of Duty, Halo and Madden. I’ve discovered a lot about the USO, the people I work with and myself. I didn’t get to see Bo’s graduation from USC and I’ve missed my family, friends, apartment, Golden Spoon, meetings, KY&L and contiguous plumbing more than I can imagine. I met some wonderful, caring, fun and fabulous people who I hope will be friends for many years to come.

I am genuinely surprised by my growing appreciation for our US troops. Before I became a Duty Manager with the USO I had an infatuation with the military. Now I know with absolute certainty that our US troops are the most talented, kind, caring, intelligent, fun, patriotic, loyal, well-prepared, dedicated, hard-working and humble ladies and gentlemen on the planet. Words do not express my admiration and respect for the men and women who are the gift of our American Military.

Can You Say Congested?

2010-04-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

I've been working days at the USO these past few months, which I really like. It means I'm here to set up in the morning, unlock our doors and greet our first visitors. We're supposed to open at 10:00 a.m., but I aim for 9:45 a.m. Usually when I unlock there's a couple of people waiting for me; sometimes there's no one. Lately it looks like this when I peek outside.

Marines!! and Just Because

2010-04-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

The USO at Camp Virginia is HOPPIN'!!! I am delighted to see so many adorable Marines; even if they're just here for a few days. Marines are so "special" (in every way possible).

As we had previously planned for "Tax Day," we made up some Just Because Bags (at 0600 this morning) and distributed them during the afternoon to some of the permanent parties on base. We tried to make them similar to a traditional school lunch for a taste of home. All were thrilled to receive their PB&J sandwiches, sweet cakes, Capri Sun juice, bite-size candies and chips.

During our rounds we discovered one soldier napping on the job.

The lovely young lady in blue is Wendy J., the new Duty Manager who is going to take my place.

Bye, Bye Bettie

2010-04-09T07:11:00.000-07:00

My friend and fellow Duty Manager, Bettie S., left every early this morning to continue her career with the USO in Balad, Iraq. Bettie was my roommate for about 6 months and I had grown to really admire her.

We had a small surprise farewell party at the Center and then Scott, Bettie and I went to PF Chang's for a goodbye dinner. That's three Americans eating in a Chinese restaurant at the mall in Kuwait with a waiter from Sri Lanka. Makes sense to me. Fortunately, we did not discuss at dinner why Bettie was able to relocate 3 weeks after her transfer was authorized and I had to wait 5 months after approval for my new assignment.

Good luck Bettie. I'll miss you.

Movin' On

2010-04-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

Finally got a date for my transfer to Kandahar: April 27th.
My new address will be:

Bonah Bachenheimer
Duty Manager
USO - Southwest Asia
APO AE 09355

Whew!

Up Against the Wall

2010-04-06T23:47:00.003-07:00

The USO procured another T-wall at Camp Virginia. The volunteers used our design and painted their own wall. I think it looks great.

Music of the Night - Reprise

2010-04-06T23:47:00.001-07:00

As usual, I left my cell on as I traveled. I received text messages with the accompanying musical notifications informing me of service with Etisalat, Mobilecom, Orange, GSM, Vodaphone, Mobinil and Royal Jordanian In-Flight Roaming. Travel on the train from Luxor to Cairo was a symphony, with various phones ringing, buzzing and jingling text alerts all night long.

While in Israel, cell service from my Wataniya/Kuwaiti cell phone provided my favorite two messages: "Welcome to your second home, Palestine. Watanya wishes you a pleasant stay." and "Marhaba. Smell the jasmine and taste the olives. JAWWAL welcomes you to Palestine." Oy!

Lovely in the Forest

2010-04-05T06:18:00.001-07:00

On Saturday we went for a picnic in Jerusalem Forest, right above Yad Vashem. We left around 10:00 a.m. because we thought the area would be very crowded. Turns out we were just about the only people there. It was a lovely, relaxing and enjoyable family day.

It looks like someone barfed in the cooler, but it's just spilled chatzilim.

Ben Shaloms

2010-04-05T06:17:00.002-07:00

I had been trying to get together with Ariel's family but when we called they had too much going on. His father (Tzion) wasn't feeling well and Yechiel's wife Alice (who was at Leorit and Ariel's wedding in Long Beach) was finally having her baby. Shani and I finally got over there on Friday. We saw Yechiel for a few minutes before we left for the hospital to visit Alice and daughter Ben Shalom. We met one of Ariel's other brother's wife and their three sons. (Sorry, don't remember any names.) Ra'anan and Ayala returned to pick us up. We had delicious Yemenite soup and a lovely visit.

Yad Vashem

2010-04-05T06:17:00.001-07:00

I had been to the new Yad Vashem (Holocaust Memorial) on my last visit to Israel in 2005, but at the time I was rushed and halls were crowded and I really didn't get to see the exhibits. This time Ra'anan, Ayala, Shani, Carmel and I went and met Idan there. We took our time and really got to experience the exhibits. We checked out some family in the Hall of Names. It felt weird. I didn't want to be taking their time, but then we're all looking for and checking out the same family. Our family.

There's an outdoor section where they have listed all of the communities that were affected by the Nazis. We found Weber (where the Bachenheimer/Meshulam families lived in the 1500s) and Salzwedel (where Ra'anan's and my fathers lived before they left Germany).

Better at the Bar-b-Que

2010-04-05T06:16:00.001-07:00

The day after Passover Seder we went back to Doron's and Ilana's for a bar-b-que. Idan and Shirly (his girlfriend who had sayed in our house in 2005) were there, as was Shani's boyfriend. Everyone was relaxed and the food was awesome. I felt much better and had a fun time.

Yaffo and Passover in (Almost) Jerusalem

2010-04-05T06:15:00.005-07:00

On Monday morning we visited Jaffo to see an exhibit about the Haitian earthquake. The exhibit was closed but with the help of our new Arab friend (the caretaker) Gihad, we were able to check out the new Station tourist spot. We also walked through the bazaar, got some munchies and strolled around the port area. The tall man is Eitai, Shani's boyfriend.

Passover at Doron's and Ilana's (Ayala's brother and his wife) in Tel Aviv, was fantastic. Ayala's father "Saba David" was there as were numerous kids, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and family. The whole seder was conducted in Hebrew and I didn't have to read at all. The Four Questions were asked perfectly. It was a wonderful experience.*

*Actually, I was sick as a dog. I was coughing and had taken some codeine, so I was also nauseated and beyond drowsy. But it was still good.

Home Like Home

2010-04-05T06:15:00.001-07:00

Arriving in Israel was incredible. Since the flight from Amman was so short (20 minutes), we cruised at 9,000 feet and could see all of the land as we flew into Ben Gurion Airport. Shani had warned me that I might have some challenges with Immigration since I was coming from Kuwait. As it went, the officer checked my passport and said, "You're name is Bonah???" "Yes," I said. He looked again, waited a few seconds, then said, "What's your name???" I responded, "Bonah." He gave me the "That's Not Really a Name" look and I gave him the "What Can I Do About It Now?" look. I said, "My parents were halutzim." He said, "OK. Good-bye," and off I went. The whole exchange took about 20 seconds.

Ra'anan, Ayala, Shani and Carmel picked me up at the airport and I fell sobbing into their hugs -- tears, red eyes, weird noises, snot -- the whole thing. I was so happy to be home with family in Israel.

We went to the mall in the evening so I could buy some sandals.

Meet the Mummies

2010-04-05T06:14:00.001-07:00

Even though I was exhausted after 28+ hours without sleep, I couldn't leave Cairo without visiting the Egyptian Museum. This massive collection of enormous rooms contains thousands of antiquities. I had two very peculiar experiences:

First - I paid the extra $20 to enter the room with the mummies. So there I was, two days before Passover 2010, staring into the mummified face of Ramses II who ruled Egypt approximately 3,000 years ago, and who (according to Cecil B. DeMille and some scholars) reigned during the time of Moses and the Israelites' exodus from Egypt.

Second - I had been warned by one of my co-workers who had just visited Egypt that the schoolchildren are particularly enamored with Americans. As I was viewing the exhibits, three 13-year-old girls approached me, asked me if I was American, what was my name, how old was I(!!), was I having fun in Egypt, etc. After a few seconds some friends joined the girls and before a minute there were 30 (I counted!) school kids talking to me, giggling, asking me questions, touching my hair and following me around. Every time I took a few steps this giant ameoba blobbed around me. I felt like Miley Cyrus. A very disconcerting experience.

One 15-year-old boy said, "I don't want to annoys [sic] you, but can I ask you a question?" He said, "Why do American people hate Arab people?" After hemming and hawing, I asked him, "Why do you think that?" (not knowing if I meant Who told you that? or What do you suppose the reason is? He said that he thinks Americans believe all Arabs are terrorists. He said (speaking as an Arab), "We hate terrorists; we hate these killers."

Up in the Night; Down in the Morning

2010-04-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

There were no sleeping cars available on any train from Luxor to Cairo so I took the First Class Coach at 10:30 p.m. I was unable to sleep because they kept the car lit the whole 11 hours. Also, every time we stopped to let passengers on, even in the middle of the night, people arrived talking, laughing and singing. The seat was pretty comfortable, but the ride was not my favorite part of my holiday.

There was one man who seemed to know everybody who got on the train. They all were very friendly and delighted to see him; they shook his hand, kissed him and treated him with great warmth and respect. He reminded me of Skip -- if Skip would be wearing a multi-colored, horizontally-striped, cable-knit, pullover sweater. [Think about that for a minute.]

At Ramses Station in Cairo I set out to locate a taxi. I found a man who speaks English (sorta) who guides me to a cab with one of his protégés. I tell the man where I'm going and he explains that to the cabdriver. I ask the man, "Are you sure he knows where my hotel is?" "Of course" answers the man. We start to leave and I ask the older man again, "Does he know where my hotel is?" "Sure, sure, sure" is the response.

As we're driving along my driver opens the passenger window and asks directions to my hotel from the man driving in the car next to us. The conversation goes on for a few seconds and the driver in the car behind us, obviously getting impatient, is beep, beep, beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeping his horn. Finally my driver gets his information and the van that was behind us moves in front. My driver stays back a little. I think he was concerned, as was I, that the van driver would pull out and slam on his brakes. Then the van driver then falls back and intentionally rams hard into the driver's side of our car.

Both cars pull over. Three men exit the van as does the driver of my taxi. They are yelling and gesticulating; arms, hands and tempers are flying. I get out onto the median but I can't go anywhere because my suitcase is in the trunk and we're on the freeway. I just want a shower and breakfast, but the argument goes on for at least 10 minutes. Finally, we all get in our respective cars, my driver asks someone else how to get to my hotel, I try to give him directions from the back seat, and eventually we find it. I didn't give him a tip.

Denial and De Temples

2010-03-26T01:38:00.001-07:00

Adam (the Hungarian guy at the train station) told me that he knew a nice guy who could take us on his boat for very little money. Misbah contacted Mohammed and indeed, on our second morning in Luxor, for 60 Egyptian Pounds (about $11), Mohammed took the three of us on a delightful and relaxing 2+ hour journey down the Nile with return to our hotel.

That afternoon and evening we joined Marco for a tour of the temple complexes at Luxor and Karnak.

Tombs, Groom and Service in the Room

2010-03-26T01:37:00.004-07:00

Misbah, Kulsoon and I spent most of two days in Luxor together. Misbah knew Mohammed who introduced us to Marco, the very best tour guide in Luxor. Marco speaks English well, is patient, has a sense of humor and (after four years of Egyptian history in college) really knows his stuff. I would recommend him to anyone visiting Luxor.

Marco Faik Hanna, Tour Guide
Mobile: 002-012-9384185
marco_hanna2010@hotmail.com

Mohammed took us to the ferry so we could catch up with Marco's tour. First we toured Hatshepsut's Temple, then went inside tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. It was fascinating, although we couldn't take pictures in either of the Valleys. It was also very hot.

Back at the hotel I got a pedicure and finally got my hair done. I explained to the hairdresser that he should just take a little off the length but most importantly, I wanted my hair "shaped." He took about 1/2" off all around. I motioned with my hands that I wanted my hair to be smaller. He smiled and nodded, nodded and smiled, and nodded . . . and put it into a ponytail. The color's good.

I ordered a salad, sandwich and fruit from room service. They brought me three place settings. I ate it all and then passed out for 12 hours.

Encountering Cairo, Pyramids and Out

2010-03-26T01:37:00.001-07:00

My first morning in Cairo the hotel tour desk arranged for a taxi to take me to Ramses Station to purchase my ticket on the sleeping car to Luxor and then for a tour of the great pyramids and back to the train. My driver, Achmed, picked me up and we headed for the station. I've taken a few semi-perilous risks in my life (parachuted out of a plane, ridden in a glider, married, parented two teenagers), but nothing could prepare me for the treacherous, insane, life-threatening downtown Cairo traffic.
Lonely Planet Egypt has this to say:

Driving in Cairo can’t in any way be recommended. Lane markings are ignored and brakes are scorned; traffic lights are discretionary. At night some drivers use their headlights exclusively for flashing oncoming vehicles. But Cairo drivers look out for each other and are tolerant of the type of driving that elsewhere might provoke road rage.

Regarding renting a car:

The only reason we expect you might rent a car is to drive directly out of the city.

In addition to automobiles and trucks, the streets are crowded with horse-carts, kids on donkeys, herds of sheep and goats. Even on the freeways. We spent 13 minutes sitting in one place without moving an inch. I did not get out of the car until we arrived in Giza since Lonely Planet advises that the only way to cross a street in Cairo is to position yourself between two locals and use them as buffers. Under no circumstances should a tourist try to cross alone.

After my tour of the pyramids, Achmed dropped me off at Ramses Station where I waited a couple of hours for the train. At the station I met Adam, a young man from Hungary who speaks English and I also met Kulsoon and Misbah, two Muslim ladies (mother and daughter) from London who were staying at the same hotel that I was in Luxor.

I love the sleeping car. It was exactly like the one Toby, Cheryl and I took from Athens to Istanbul. I had a personal porter and was given dinner and breakfast with my passage. I didn't sleep one wink, but I rested and relaxed and utterly enjoyed the experience.

The Less Said

2010-03-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

I was talking with the doctor as he was getting ready to give me the third set of shots in my knee.
"You don't need any more injections after these," he said. "Just come back next week for a follow-up."
"I'll come back in three weeks," I replied. "I'm going on vacation."
"Oh, really." Said the doctor. "Where are you going?"
(You and I know I'm going to Egypt and Israel, but considering I'm in Kuwait and the doctor has two very long needles in his hands), I respond, "Uh . . . I'm going to . . . Egypt!"
"Egypt is very nice," says the doctor, "and the weather is not too hot this time of year."
"Are you from Egypt?" I ask.
"Nope. I'm from Syria." (after which he tells me about beautiful Damascus and the lovely apricot trees, etc., etc.)

One of the many times in my life I was happy I kept my mouth shut.

Super Volunteer at the USO

2010-03-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

So this Navy guy (Robert) had health issues and missed his training to go to Afghanistan. Now poor Robert's at Camp Virginia waiting and waiting and waiting to get his lesson. Robert was supposed to be held up for a few days but now it's looking like a few weeks. In the meantime, to keep himself busy, occupied and useful, he's been volunteering at the USO. Robert will probably end up putting in 250+ volunteer hours during his transitory time at Camp Virginia. He is kind, gracious, fun, funny and ever so helpful. Robert is so supportive in fact, that he's earned a picture and post on my blog (which will probably tick off some of our other volunteers). Way to go Robert.

Kings of the UTR

2010-03-21T06:23:00.000-07:00

Mike and Tony are two Navy MPs stationed at the Provost's Marshall's Office at Camp Buehring. Between the two of them they have twelve (12!) young children. Since Mike and Tony visit Camp Virginia almost daily, they frequently stop by our USO to read and record at least a couple books with United Through Reading. Tony and Mike are two of our biggest advocates. They keep us focused on the importance of the UTR program to our troops and their families.

Three Coins in the Fountain

2010-03-20T23:01:00.000-07:00

CSM Anderson*, LTC Papile and MAJ Jones made a special trip to the USO yesterday to present Bettie, Lynn and me with Command Coins. Receiving a coin was one of the highlights of my service here at the USO. I was also given a coin at the Tennessee bar-b-que. Most often it is placed in the officer's palm and then handed over quietly in a hand shake, without anyone's knowledge. When the Colonel from Tennessee gave me their coin I started to cry. (Not a very military-like reaction.)

Coins allow military members to show their pride in their command. Just about every command has its own coin. A coin can be obtained in two different ways: A general coin is available to the public, and can be purchased by anyone. A more specific coin can be earned, usually by more seasoned military members, or by an exemplary act or achievement.

The tradition of command coins began during World War I. A rich lieutenant had coins made of bronze which he gave to everyone in his squadron. Shortly after receiving the token, one of his pilots was captured by the Germans. The pilot had placed his coin in a small pouch around his neck. The Germans removed all of the pilot’s identification to dissuade him from trying to escape. The pilot, however, got away and made it to the front lines. It was here that French soldiers had him pegged for an enemy until he showed them the coin. One of the Frenchmen recognized the squadron that the pilot belonged to, and therefore he was not executed. It became tradition for everyone to wear or keep their command coin on them at all times.

I'm not wearing my coins around my neck, but I'm keeping them to remind me that our efforts are appreciated by the people we most admire.

*CMS Anderson was taking the pictures

Cowboys Riding Into the Sunset

2010-03-19T02:31:00.001-07:00

HHC 960th BSB-Wyoming National Guard, the 2/300 and everyone else from Wyoming is RIPing out of Camp Virginia and returning to the US. These are some of the people I'm going to miss the most.

(Top to bottom; left to right: Mehrens, Walker, Hillshafer, Pavich, Lindmier, Archuleta, Peterson, Wayne, Flock, McGuire, Ledoux, Huntress, Nickels, Burdett, Witt, Cassedy, Habel, Papile, Davis, York, Ramirez, Husted, Martinez, Anderson, Smith, Ressler, Jones, Rogers, Klein, Bolden, Rogoff, Gorsuch, McCarty, Pafford, Essey, Jacobs.)

Too Young for Almost Live

2010-03-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

We have an event on Wednesdays at our USO called "Almost Live" where we show concert DVDs of comedians, singers or other performers. A couple of weeks ago we presented Almost Live with Richard Pryor. Two soldiers were discussing: "I've never heard of him. Who is he? Do you think he's any good?"

A week before that our flyer said, "Presenting Bob Marley -- Almost Live at the USO!" One soldier asked me, "Is Bob Marley really going to be here?"

That's the Way It's Supposed to Be

2010-03-10T04:56:00.003-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I was talking to Major H in the USO. He said he was in the lead team for the 1/230 from Tennessee, a squadron of soldiers heading home after 10 months in Iraq. He said they were coming through Camp Virginia and would all be here at the beginning of March and that this was the first time their squadron would all be together since they had deployed. I suggested that the USO have a bar-b-que to welcome them home and thank them for their service. He thought that was a good idea and promised to get back to me.

I didn't hear from Major H, so four days later I asked him what was up. He told me that two of their soldiers had been killed in a helicopter crash just two days before. The officers were trying to decide if they wanted to have the bar-b-que.

Eventually Major H told me that indeed they would love a celebration and we could start with the planning. Since we have only 8 USO employees and four of them are on vacation I asked Major H if we could have some assistance with setting up, grilling and cleaning up. Other than that, the USO would take care of everything.

On Saturday the USO hosted a bar-b-que for 638 of our favorite Tennessee sons and daughters. Approximately 20 volunteers (or were they "voluntolds?") from the 1/230 showed up to help transport, set up, decorate and arrange the facilities. Six soldiers cooked at two enormous grills for three hours straight. The troops provided their own DJ and a photo montage for the big screen. We served hamburgers, hot dogs and bratwurst with cheese and all of the trimmings; two beautiful cakes, Girl Scout cookies, candy and chips; sodas, lemonade, near beer and mocha lattes. There were people playing football, poker, cards and Dungeons & Dragons; there was singing, dancing and karaoke. There was talking, screaming, laughing, joking, hooting and hollering.

The event looked like a family celebration with brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins and parents just kicking back, letting loose and having fun. The soldiers of the 1/230 are among the nicest and most gracious people I had ever met. I can't think of any group to whom we should be more grateful or who more deserves our recognition and appreciation.

What a blessing; what a party, what a celebration; what an absolute ball.

Not Late to the International Clinic

2010-03-10T04:56:00.001-08:00

Since my knee difficulty was going nowhere fast at the TMC and Bettie had previously been to and recommended the International Clinic in Kuwait City, I finally bit the bullet and decided to make an appointment. The IC is popular with American military contractors and other American ex-pats, so they have a (sort of) English speaking receptionist. I made my appointment, and asked her for the address of the clinic. She said the Clinic is in Salmiya (a suburb) on Mohammed Al Mubarek Mohammed Al Bumbum Mubarek Al Mohommad Bumbum Street (or something like that) behind Something Something Something Tower and that since my appointment was at 12:30 and they were closing at 13:00 I HAD BETTER NOT BE LATE. I asked her again for an address, but she just reiterated that she did not know the address, could not or would not give it to me and I HAD BETTER NOT BE LATE.

I spoke with my contractor buddy Dan and he drew me a map to the Clinic. My other contractor buddy Ray said Dan didn't know anything, so Ray also drew me an entirely different map to the Clinic. Both Dan and Ray said it would take about 40 minutes once we got off base to get there.

Thank heavens Lynn consented to drive me (I don't like driving in Kuwait and it really hurts my knee and we're not supposed to go into the city alone). We thought we should leave early, just to make sure I WASN'T LATE. We got in the car at 10:00 a.m. It took us 10 minutes to get gas and 20 freakin' minutes to go through ECP
(Entry/Exit Control Point). (Note: We were trying to get off base.) Our drive to Kuwait City/Salmiya was uneventful. Our tour of Kuwait City/Salmiya Salmiya/Kuwait City Kuwait City/Salmiya was ridiculous. Even with both maps we could not seem to find Mohammed Al Mubarek Mohammed Al Bumbum Mubarek Al Mohommad Bumbum Street. Finally, at 12:10 we saw the Ruby Tuesday's which is across the street from the Clinic and in back of Something Something Something Tower and we located the Clinic. We still had to find a place to park.

I checked in at 12:20 and was directed up the stairs to the second floor (which is actually the third floor) where I saw the doctor right away. He told the nurse to take me downstairs to X-ray. The nurse swiftly led me down two flights of stairs to X-ray and then hurriedly brought me back up the stairs to the doctor. The whole time up and down and up the stairs I'm thinking "Did you miss the part where it says I'm here for a sore knee?"

The doctor looked at the X-rays, said there was preliminary evidence of arthritis and told me he wanted to give me injections, one a week for the next six weeks. He directed me down the stairs (I'm serious) to the pharmacy, where I picked up my magic vial and then speedily went up the stairs so I could get my shot before they closed at 13:00. To the doctor's credit, I guess the nurse told him she was in a hurry because she wanted to leave at 1:00 and he told her that if she was rushed he didn't want her to help. He wanted someone who would be patient.

Anyway, the doctor sterilized my knee with three coats of iodine (not a good sign) before I received a very uncomfortable shot to numb my knee so that the actual shot wouldn't hurt too much. It did hurt; I cried a little. We're going back to the doctor for shot No. 2 next week. I can hardly wait. I won't discuss if my knee's better, because I don't know. I do know that the visit cost me close to USD 400. That really hurt; I cried a little.

After the doctor we went to pick up some supplies for the Center and then I tried to take Lynn to lunch. Fortunately/unfortunately a Kuwaiti guy (Noaff) at the next table was asking Lynn for her phone number and wanted her to go on a date with him. She didn't give him her number but he paid for Lynn's sheesha and both of our lunches anyway. It seems to me that Lynn is always meeting guys, but she says it's only when I'm with her. Isn't that just wonderful?

I Kneed Assistance

2010-03-10T04:20:00.000-08:00

I apologize for my negligent reporting as of late; there's too much of nothing to write about and even less going on. Our USO had been averaging 120-150 visitors a day (800-900 is normal; sometimes we get 1100+).

The lousy thing is that I injured my knee (I have absolutely no idea how) on January 17th and it still is not right. Consequently I am uncomfortable, slightly drugged and hobbling everywhere. It takes more effort to make it through every day, so after work, all I want to do is stay still.

The saga goes like this: I went to the gym; everything was fine. I walked to the DFac; everything was fine. After I finished my lunch I started to stand up and my right knee hurt so bad that I nearly tumbled over. Why the Face???

Later that afternoon I hobbled to the TMC (Troop Medical Center). They gave me Motrin but since it was Sunday and after sick call, they would not treat me. I limped back on Monday so they could examine, poke and prod. My knee was definitely swollen and tender, but they could find nothing wrong. The next week I shuffled back to the TMC and still they could not find anything amiss, joint-, cartilage- or tendon-wise.

Scott and Bettie drove me to Camp Buehring to see the physical therapist. Even though I had an appointment, the PT was in a meeting so all they did is evaluate me and then make a PT appointment for me at Camp Virginia for three weeks hence. When I showed up for that long-awaited meeting at Camp Virginia I was told that the PT had gotten lost coming from Camp Buehring, my appointment was cancelled, and that she would contact me to set a new time and date. When she did call, she said they did not have any space for me the next week so she would fit me in two weeks later.

I've been to the TMC quite a few times and obtained different prescriptions, none of which seemed to help. Everyone in the new group at the TMC has been really nice and very accommodating, but even with X-rays, they are unable to figure out what's wrong. I don't get it either. My knee doesn't necessarily hurt more when I walk on it or less when I keep it elevated. Sometimes the pain awakens me at night and sometimes I have no pain at all for hours. Every single doctor, corpsman, PA or PT that I saw said that it was OK to walk around the base; not one recommended a bandage, brace or crutches.

Eventually I gave up on the TMC and took a trip into the International Clinic in Kuwait City (see separate post).

I'm discouraged and embarassed. I feel like an old biddy hobbling all over base and everything I do takes extra effort. I'm exhausted from feeling sorry for myself.

So now you know why I haven't written. Say along with me: "Ugh."

Celtic Aire Leaves Us O'Flabbergasted at the McUSO

2010-02-12T04:43:00.000-08:00

USO at Camp Virginia recently hosted a concert by Celtic Aire, a musical group composed of the U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants. Members of Celtic Aire are Technical Sgts. Joseph Haughton, Julia Brundage, and Emily Lewis, and Master Sgt. Eric Sullivan.

We were initially somewhat bewildered because we never previously had this type of group entertain at the USO. However, it took less than one song for Celtic Aire to win over just about everyone inside the Center.

Celtic Aire is a group of very talented, highly trained, enormously gifted singers and musicians. Any one of the members would be fabulous alone, but together they were phenomenal. The group played Irish folk songs and dance music, American Blue Grass and country, drinking tunes and bar ditties. Between the jigs and sing-alongs, the jokes and stories, their show seemed much shorter than the 75 minutes they played.

Come back, come back, come back soon Celtic Aire. We love you! You are awesome!

You hAVe to MoVe - NOW!**

2010-02-12T02:36:00.001-08:00

After one year in the same room, I was "invited" to relocate to make space for the new command coming to Camp Virginia. The new room was nowhere near a bathroom, so I asked my new best friend JW if he could find me something closer to the facilities. Happily, luckily and fortunately, JW pulled through. My new room is 128 steps from the bathroom (exactly twice as far as my old room).

As you can see from the pictures, my new quarters are much different than the old. I had never seen any of my neighbors (except Mike) at my former CHU; my new neighbor ("Neu") is very friendly and I see him often. Previously I faced other CHUs on my block; my new place has a "meadow view."^^ Instead of other rooms like mine, across from me are bunkers, a smoke shack and water shed; behind those are the transient tents. There is a bright light that shines directly into my room, although since my windows are covered, the light is only an issue the four times every night that I open the door to go to the bathroom.

Isn't it just amazing how a change of scenery can give one a new outlook on life?

**When she was about 4 years old, Leorit's friend Rina was scheduled to come visit. For some reason Rina had to cancel, and Leorit was very angry. Leorit went to her room and slammed the door. 10 minutes later I saw a warning: "You hAVe to MoVe." I was impressed because that was the first thing Leorit had ever written that was not copied from something else. A few minutes later the door slammed again. Now the notice said "You hAVe to MoVe - NOW!" I still have the sign.

^^ We once went to Cambria for the weekend. Our hotel offered an "ocean view" or a "meadow view." We opted for the less expensive room with the "meadow view." The "meadow" was a vacant lot.

Happy Birthday to Us

2010-02-06T08:47:00.000-08:00

It was the USO's 69th birthday recently. We had a small party with cake and ice cream.

A Couple of Funnies

2010-02-04T23:13:00.000-08:00

We had a small party for the USO's 69th birthday, serving cake, ice cream and juice. There was quite a bit of cake left over so I asked CPT R if he'd like to take some back to his soldiers at T5. CPT R shook is head. "No, I'm not going to take any back to T5." He said. "Have you seen my guys?" (He has a point. Some of the men at T5 are sort of "big.")

-o0o-

I ran into Paul F. at the DFac. I hadn't seen him in weeks. "How are you?" "What have you been up to?" "What's going on?" etc., etc. Paul said, "I thought you were going home." I told him that I was going home but just for PTO. I was still living at Camp Virginia, waiting to go to Kandahar. I wouldn't be going home for good until August.

"Where's that?" he asked.
"It's right between July and September." I answered.

Paul didn't think it was funny, but the buddies he was sitting with did.

Be-Bopping Along

2010-02-03T22:36:00.000-08:00

Lynn and I went to Camp Buehring the other day to order a cake and pick up supplies for a bar-b-que. We set off in the early afternoon. Down the road we came upon a military convoy which we determined must also be going to Buehring. However, after we and the convoy made the first right turn, the convoy took the next right while we continued straight.** "We just need to look for the radio tower and then turn left," Lynn told me.

We be-bopped along, chatting away. We saw quite a few flocks of sheep, a couple of herds of camels and even one goat herd. Amazingly, there are a few small flowers in the desert and the ground has a very thin film of green as a result of the recent heavy rains (see my post "Lake Camp Virginia"). We continued to joke, chat, gossip, and laugh.

"Are you sure we're on the right road?" I asked.
"Oh, yeah. Absolutely. I'm sure."

We kept going like this, be-bopping along for about 15 more minutes, until we finally came to a tower.

"I don't think that's the radio tower," said I. "That's the lookout for the border."
"Do you mean the border with Iraq?"
"Um, yeah. I think so."

SSSSSCCCCCRRREEEEEEEECCCCCCHHHHHHHHH!!!! (U-TURN)

I guess the convoy was going to Buehring.

We retraced our route, got to Camp Buehring, and managed to finish all of our errands, although it was long after dark when we returned to Camp Virginia.

**There's a double right turn on the road to Camp Buehring. It works when you're going there, but on the return trip you make two left direction merges directly into oncoming traffic. To proceed, you must cross two lanes, with traffic coming from the right and the left. There are no indicators or lines on the road, just one "merge" sign at each intersection. It's amazing to think that someone intentionally designed this connection. I'm pretty sure it was Dr. Jack Kevorkian.

He's Getting His

2010-02-03T00:14:00.001-08:00

A couple of months ago I went to do something at Command Cell. I don't remember what it was or what happened, but my reaction was that I said, "s--t" under my breath. SSG J, who was sitting in his office, heard me and scolded, "Hey! We don't use that language here." The 2-3 people in the office eyed me with pity. I felt horrible and humiliated and continued to feel bad for the next 3 days.

Thereafter, every time I went to Command Cell I looked to see if SSG J was there. If he was, I kept a low profile and tried not to say anything at all. I didn't want to disgrace myself again.

The other night I was sitting with Lynn and David at dinner. Lynn said she was going to write an irreverent text message to SSG J. "Isn't he the one at Command?" I asked. We figured out it was the same guy, so I told Lynn and David the story about my bad word. They almost fell off their chairs laughing. "He cusses all of the time" Lynn told me. "He was kidding." David said. "He just has a really dry sense of humor. It's difficult to tell when he's joking." They thought my story was hilarious.

I, however, did not think it was that darned funny. I planned revenge.

Every day I've been leaving an envelope in SSG J's drawer. He's asked his staff about it and expressed his bewilderment. At least 10 people have seen me leave the envelope, but so far no one has told him who's bringing the "gifts."

He's received:
One AAA battery
2 pieces of gum
Packets of salt, pepper, sugar and creamer
A key
A Navy patch
One 10-cent pog
The front page of Stars & Stripes
Label from a water bottle
Napkin from Subway
A quarter
3 Rubberbands
Chrystal Lite drink mix

About a week ago SSGT J came into the USO to hang out with Lynn. They were sitting in the office, chatting away, when I sat down to use the computer. As soon as I joined in the conversation Lynn had to leave; it was impossible for her to keep a straight face.

A couple of days after that I was eating with Lynn in the DFac (she calls it the DFat) when SSG J sat down with us. There was far too much giggling, but Lynn and I managed to not spill any beans.

UPDATE: Well darnit. I turned myself in two days ago. SSG J didn't continue to be sufficiently disturbed and finding little things that fit into a small envelope got boring for me. OK, Curtis; you win.

Who's Line Is It Anyway?

2010-02-02T23:08:00.000-08:00

It's been really quite around here lately. We had been hosting 1,000 to 1,200 troops per day; the other day we had 113 visitors the whole day. The Fire Marshall says our maximum capacity is 281 persons, and we get awfully "close" to that sometimes. However, when I left the USO at 19:00 the other night, there were 13 people in our tent. Sheesh.

What's exciting is that the group that was in Iraq when I was there came through Camp Virginia. I missed Patrick and Matt (they were here while I was in Long Beach), but I did get to see Sgt. C, Chief, Terrence, Sgt. H (The Guy Who Looks and Sounds Like Bill Murray), Randy, Fisher No-C, and my very best buddy Chris (in picture). It was great to see them, but now I'm bummed because they are all gone.

-o0o-

FINALLY received official confirmation from USO in Arlington that I am in line to go to Kandahar, Afghanistan. Don't know when. I'll keep you posted.

-o0o-

We recently had an "exercise." I knew we were going to have it and I was aware of the approximate time, but I wasn't prepared for anything else. I'm sitting in my room, minding my own business, when suddenly there is an explosion, much louder and much closer than any I've heard. I peek outside and see smoke but no one seems to care. Then I hear, "INCOMING!! INCOMING!! INCOMING!!" I listen for, but do not hear, an announcement declaring, "EXERCISE!! EXERCISE!! EXERCISE!!" After sweating for about 10 minutes I finally hear "EXERCISE!! EXERCISE!! EXERCISE!!" Whew!!

A few minutes later the lightening and thunder started. I went outside and ran into CPT. R ,who was in full battle gear and looked exactly like a soldier from the Doonsbury comic strip. "Wasn't that cool? Wasn't that just the best?" he asked me.

"No, sir. It wasn't," said I. "That was about as scared as I've been since I've been here."

"Yeah, that was so much fun!"

When I saw the Colonel in the DFac the next day I told him that I had been really frightened.

"Yeah, that was so awesome!! Didn't you just love it?? That was so exciting!! That was just amazing!!!" He was so pleased with the exercise that he was giddy.

Whatever.

Round, Round, Round, Round, I Get Around

2010-02-02T22:30:00.000-08:00

I've been "in country" for over seventeen months.* During that time I have taken off from, landed at, or layed over (from 90 minutes to 4 days) at airports in these cities:

Amman
Athens
Barcelona
Beijing
Berlin
Cairo
Dubai
Doha (Qatar)
Istanbul
Kandahar
Kuwait
LSA at Ali Al Salem (Kuwait)
Frankfurt
Hong Kong
Kayseri (Turkey)
Las Vegas
London
Long Beach
Los Angeles
PAX Terminal at Basra (Iraq)
Shanghai
Szean
Tel Aviv
Washington D.C.

Also docked at ports in Barcelona, Malta, Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples (Pompeii) Livorno (Florence/Pisa) and Cannes.

I'm pretty impressed with myself.

*Updated 4 August 2010

Rescue Me

2010-01-26T07:10:00.001-08:00

Pictures of my (formerly) lovely dining room.

On Sunday morning I received the following e-mail with the subject line, "Please don't be mad."

Hi mommy,
So on Friday night there was kind of a small fire in the house. The dining room floor got burnt a little. Everyone is okay . . . I'm very sorry . . . We're taking care of everything . . . so you don't have to worry. I just thought I should let you know. Again, I'm sorry . . . Ariel put out the fire, but we called [the fire fighters] anyway just to be safe. I miss you and love you. Soooooooo sorry.
-Leorit

About 30 minutes after I received the e-mail I received a call from Leorit. She sounded fine, albeit very contrite. She told me the smoke alarm woke up Ariel and he woke her up. She did not hear the smoke alarm. As for me, I was concerned but mostly I was relieved that Leorit and Ariel were uninjured.

Later, when I saw the pictures Ariel had posted on his Facebook page, I almost barfed. Apparently Leorit's idea of "kind of a small fire" and mine are somewhat different. Obviously if the smoke alarm had not been working the outcome could have been much, much worse. I'm eternally grateful that neither of them was hurt.

Excuses, Excuses

2010-01-26T06:43:00.000-08:00

I haven't written anything on this blog lately. I have no good reasons, but lots of excuses.

1. Jetlag;
2. Extremely busy at the USO;
3. Nothing interesting to report;
4. Getting used to a new schedule -- now working days;
5. Hurt my knee so
A) I can't go to gym
B) I'm not sleeping well
C) I'm having temper tantrums
6. Too engrossed in the "Twilight" series. (3 books down, 1 to go);
7. Still don't know when I'm going to Kandahar (See 5.C above);
8. Don't feel like writing;
9. Nothing interesting to report.

Really sorry.

-o0o-

While I was away there was an appreciation ceremony for the workers at the Camp Virginia DFac. Most of our workers are from Sri Lanka or India. Every single one of them is nice, kind and helpful. My favorite worker is the one with the dark hair and the mustache . . . or maybe it's the guy without the mustache. We are lucky to have them working with us.

-o0o-

We had a 3 on 3 basketball tournament the other night. I did not participate at all, but I did happen to be in the right place at the right time for a picture.

Apres' Wedding; Tatoo You; Bunches of Bette

2010-01-16T03:12:00.003-08:00

The days after Leorit and Ariel's wedding were almost as busy at the week leading up to it. Jacqueline, Fannie, Alice, Shani and I went to the Camarillo Premium Outlets on Monday, visited Toby on the way home and then returned in time to attend one of the Sheva B'rachot dinners honoring Leorit and Ariel.

On Tuesday Shani and I went to KY&L and then Shani took her first limousine ride to lunch at 555 with Skip, Marilyn, Justin, Lee and Carrie; later joined by Kellie, DDP and Jodi. That evening Shani and I caught our Jet Blue flight to Las Vegas.

We stayed at Treasure Island, which was actually much nicer than I had expected. On Wednesday Shani went shopping and I walked across the bridge to China Town to get some permanent make-up. With my temporarily swollen lips I ended up looking like a cross between Angelina Jolie and a baboon. That evening we saw Bette Midler, which was actually the main reason for the trip to Las Vegas.

Our one-hour return flight was delayed three hours so we missed the Thursday Sheva B'rachot dinner. Shani went back to LAX for her return flight to Israel on Friday.

I had been staying at Beverly's place for the entire two weeks. Unfortunately, my timing was way off because on Tuesday after the wedding Bev entered Good Samaritan for a scheduled heart operation. Luckily, Bev's mom Pam stayed with her while Shani and I were in Las Vegas. Two days later Bev was home from the hospital to continue her recuperation. Next time I hope I can be more of a friend than a hotel guest.

I got to spend a little time with Bevie and Pam on Saturday. That evening Beverly, Pam, Toby, Bo and I had a delicious dinner at Tratoria Limone and then went to Ariel and Leorit's for dessert and coffee with the family.

Sunday was back to LAX for the long flight back to KWI and Camp Virginia.

I'm thinking: No more airplanes; no more airports -- at least for awhile.

Exhausted

2010-01-16T03:12:00.001-08:00

I apologize for not returning your call or e-mail, for not walking with you, and for us not getting together while I was in town. This is what I did do:

Sunday, 27 December - work from noon to 17:00. Have fabulous Italian dinner with Camp Virginia co-workers. Get dropped off at KWI and take flight to LAX.

Monday, 28 December - arrive LAX. Pick up car and go to Hotel Beverly. Pick up Leorit at work. Dine with Trader Joe.

Tuesday, 29 December - shopping in Seal Beach with Jacqueline (Ariel's aunt) and Fannie (Ariel's mom). Go back to pick up Bev. Head to Penny's and Macy's at Lakewood mall to look for dress for wedding. Then to Nordstrom's at Cerritos; found dress. Hang out with friends in evening. Dinner at CPK with Bo and Bev.

Wednesday, 30 December - Los Alamitos for doctor's appointment, then to lab for blood test. Breakfast with Trader Joe. AAA to obtain new International Driving Permit. Go to Batia and Aleeza's in Beverly Hills for haircut and color. Meet Toby at Bev's then pick up Leorit at work. Try to buy shoes and earrings at Penny's, but their computers are down, so we can't. Dinner with Toby at Hof's Hut.

Thursday, 31 December - Annual check-up at doctor in morning. Mammogram after that. Go back to Penny's to pick up shoes and earrings we couldn't pay for last night. Buy groceries at Von's. Lunch at Bake 'n Broil with Anne and David, then go to David's dental office for X-rays and teeth cleaning. Take Leorit to Mikva. Drive to New Year's Eve party at Bev's friend's house.

Friday, 1 January - Wait for prescriptions at Walgreens. Pick up Shani at LAX. Her plane was on time, but her luggage wasn't. Walk to USO @ LAX to get something to eat. Walk back to AA terminal. Take Shani to surprise Leorit. Get Shani unpacked. Attend Shabbat dinner with Shani and Leorit.

Saturday, 2 January - Get manicure and pedicure. Go back to pick up Shani and drop her off at Lakewood Mall. Hang out with friends. Pick up Shani then drive to Jenny's to get Leorit. Walk to Sybil's for lunch. Walk to the Shabbat Kala reception for Leorit. Toby drives us back to Jenny's. Havdala at Jenny's. Take Leorit for manicure and pedicure.

Sunday, 3 January - Take Shani to Bo's in Los Angeles. Pick up remainder of my prescription. Go to Lakewood mall for hair styling (big mistake) and make up. Drive to AJCC. Go to apartment to pick up Ariel's family for wedding. Drive back to AJCC. Get changed and take family pictures. WEDDING!!! Take Ariel's family and gifts back to apartment.

Monday, 4 January - Take Shani, Alice, Jacqueline and Fannie to Camarillo Premium Outlets. Stop by Trader Joe's and Toby's on the way back. Walk to Sheva Bracha dinner. Take Shani to Bo's in Los Angeles.

Tuesday, 5 January - Pick up Shani at Blue Line station. Go to KY&L for visits and meeting. Take limo to lunch with Skip, MAW, Justin, Lee and Carrie at 555. Go to LGB to take Jet Blue to Las Vegas. (Delayed 30 minutes.)

Wednesday, 6 January - Walk to Fashion Show Mall. Walk to China Town (Little Saigon?) Get permanent make-up. Watch "Inglorious Basterds" on TV in hotel room. Walk to Cesar's Palace for dinner at Forum Shops and Bette Midler.

Thursday, 7 January - Walk to Fashion Show Mall then down the strip a loooonnngggg way to Excalibur; limp back. Take cab to airport for Jet Blue flight to LGB. Delayed 3 hours, causing us to miss Sheva Bracha dinner. Stop by apartment so Shani can say good-bye.

Friday, 8 January - Drop off Shani at LAX. Back to David's office to get two teeth filled. Hang out with friends in evening.

Saturday, 9 January - Hang out with friends in morning. Drive home then walk to Shul on Atlantic for Sheva Bracha luncheon and discussions. Dinner with Bev, Pam (Bev's mom), Toby and Bo at Trattoria Limon. Coffee and dessert at apartment with Leorit, Ariel and friends and family.

Sunday, 10 January - Pack. Stop by apartment to bid farewell to family. Return rent-a-car. Take flight to Frankfurt, then, after 6-hour layover to KWI. Arrive back at Camp Virginia at 02:00 on Tuesday, 12 January. (Monday, 11 January was lost.)

Tuesday, 12 January - Begin work at noon.

Really sorry I missed you.

Mr. and Mrs. Ben Shalom Get Married

2010-01-16T03:11:00.003-08:00

Leorit and Ariel's wedding was beautiful. As expected, it was very traditional, with the men and women completely separate. Leorit did not see Ariel for a full week before the wedding. It was quite moving (yes, I cried) when all of the men came with Ariel to put the veil on the bride, checking to make sure it was actually Leorit, not Leah or Rachel. The guys took a while building the chuppa, but eventually got it to stand up long enough to have the service.

After the ceremony we retreated to separate sections of the social hall at the AJCC, although some of us cheated, spying on the opposite side/sex. Everyone danced and celebrated for hours. The guys might have been a little more boiserous and a tad louder, probably because Jim Beam, Jose Cuervo and Capt. Morgan hung out with the men.

Leading Up to the Big Day

2010-01-16T03:11:00.001-08:00

My trip home began with an uneventful flight from Kuwait through Frankfurt to LAX. I rented a car and then headed to Beverly's house, where she graciously put me up for two weeks.

As Leorit's wedding present I arranged for Shani, her cousin from Israel, to come to the wedding. Shani's plane arrived on time at LAX; unfortunately her luggage was on another flight. We were hungry and tired and had about an hour to wait so we headed over to the USO @ LAX to get something to eat. Of course, everyone on duty was welcoming, gracious and very nice -- and they gave us some food.

After collecting Shani's suitcase I called Leorit and told her I'd like to come talk with her. She sounded a little aprehensive. When I arrived I asked her to step outside; now she was really worried. As soon as she saw Shani she started to cry and from then on it was all good. We all thought having Shani at the wedding was a great present for Leorit. We then took Shani to meet Ariel and his family at my apartment. Of course she got along great with everyone there. Shani also made a special friend in Beverly's granddaughter, Annabelle. Shani then joined us for all of the pre-wedding activities including dinners, lunches, receptions and parties.