I still hate Mondays

Sorry, no new photos yet. I haven't felt like exploring the bases just yet. Hmmm maybe I'm still in denial that I'm here. We had our first (kinda) sandstorm yesterday. Since we are surrounded by bases and Baghdad the sand isn't as bad as out in the middle of BFE. But we had fifty mile per hour winds for about 15 hours solid. Dirt tastes about the same as at home. Goggles help. We fought for a few hours to keep our tents from blowing away. Lost our connection on the tv sattelite. Tried in vain for about an hour to re-align it, but gave up after my hands went numb. So we missed the football games. All I can say now is GO BEARS. Peyton Manning will lose the big game, again. Maybe.... Hopefully.... I got my smallpox shot the other day, and am supposed to have a nasty oozing blister by now if it took. Instead I have a tiny red mark with a small white bump in the middle of it. But I don't think I'll be running down to tell them about it. They had their chance. Not my fault. I'm probably speaking to soon though, I'll let you know in another week. Unfortunately, we had another 'Patriot Detail' last night. That is where we have a small formation and ceremony for the poor soldiers who lost their lifes. They load them up on aircraft to send them home with the proper respect. A touching but painful tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for others. There will unfortunately be dozens more for me to witness. Well that is completely depressing, sorry, but it's what happens here daily. I hope you are all doing good, and staying safe. I am too. James