Sand Storm

Enough Said!

I miss Roscoe

Yes I obviously miss Julie so much, but I didn't have a photo of her on my computer when I left. But I did have a couple of Roscoe. So Roscoe, if you are reading this, go give Julie a hug and a kiss for me. James

Not sure what the building is, but it looks nice.

Here's another photo of a building near the pallaces. Not sure if it's religous or what, but I know it was left pretty much undamaged by the coalition forces. That is one of the man-made lakes. There are a couple of them. Water looks pretty nasty though. We saw a couple of people fishing in them, but I seriously doubt they ate their catch. It is rumored that Saddam had people assassinated and thrown in the water, although it's never been dredged or drained to find out. They have catfish, carp, and a specially bred 'Saddam's bass' living in them. I wish I had my own fish too!

Ready to go shopping!

The other day we went to check out the other bases to see some palaces and do a little shopping. We have to get geared up whenever we leave our compound so we snapped a couple photos. The building in the background is nicknames the 'glass house. I think it was one of Saddam's offices. My base is on his private airport. Still private, just not for him any longer.

Expeditionary Firemen.

Here's the 447th. Expeditionary Fire and Emergency Services group. Three different home units mixed together to make this fine group. P.S. the guy wearing the hat is doing so because he's embarassed about the big scab on his forehead. He got it the night before by walking into one of those 13 foot high concrete walls. Flashlights are a good thing.

Everyone wants a camel spider.

Sorry, haven't seen any yet....well allive. Saw a 4 inch one that the entomology (bug killers) guys stuck in a freezer for a few hours. We do have a mascot at the firehouse though. A 4 inch black scorpian that was abandoned by the last group here. Still allive and fiesty even though it's been in an aquarium for a couple months. The guys throw in stink-beetles and geckos for it to play with, but the geckos always get out. Silly scorpion just keeps on living. He doesn't like to be petted much, must be bitter about the box he's in. No C-Webb you can't have it. I know you asked for one, but your just not worthy. Flies, sand-fleas, mosquitos, camel spiders, mice, and rats should be showing up in a few weeks. OH - JOY!!! Already caught a few mice in tents. Co-worker found a nest in bottom of his wall-locker with 4 baby mice in it. Another guy found mouse on shelf in wall-locker about three feet from floor. These mice 'got up's.' I think I'll be keeping my snacky treats in a tupperware box on top shelf from now on.

Like sand in an hourglass....

At least it's almost Feb. Not like I care or anything............ come on May! Hurry Up, damn it!!!