Yup, nothing out of the ordinary today.  We worked yesterday and today.  In fact, we work every day.

 However, for added celebration, at work, we counted down to “midnight” Eastern time and we dropped a ping-pong ball from a chair to the floor.   That was about it.

I think we have something like 345 days left until we leave.   So, nothing much to look forward to.

The food is starting to taste gross because there is so much of it.  There are a number of dining facilities here, but the best one is run by the Army.   Believe it or not, they kick some serious butt in the kitchen.   It is by far the tastiest I have had in a long time (as far as military food.)   Friday is “special” night and they really cook up some good stuff.  While the other chowhalls have steak and crab, they make killer lasagna.

Since this is a multi-force contigency here, there are dining facilities from other nations besides the USA.   The Koreans, Egyptians and UAE have distinctive dining facilities.   I’m scoping out methods to scam my way in or to somehow get an invitation.  Nothing like ethnic home cooking to make things taste good.   Also, there is another Army dining facility that I have not visited but will let you know how it works out.

There are a couple of PXs here (stores) where you can buy things.   It’s pretty limited and you really can’t special order any items.   I spoke to the manager because I would like to buy a long-range Bugout Bag, but they cannot order it for me and if they did, it would take 4-6 months.  Then, the manager told me that last month, 12 of their connexes were stolen as they made their way through Pakistan.   That’s why there isn’t a lot of goods on the shelves.   Don’t get me wrong, the PX has plenty of stuff, just not a great selection.  

 I hope our stuff doesn’t get stolen.   It has happened to other units.  We still haven’t received our boxes of goodies that we packed before we left Ft. Dix.

Work today is pretty hectic.   Can’t seem to find all the stuff I need, but will get it done.  I’ve already seen next week’s schedule and it is 3 times the amount that I have this week.  Can’t wait!!!

 Anyway, I hope all of you have a great happy new years!  And Dave, hope you feel better.   Sorry to hear about your situation.