Well here we go people, I've decided to join the 21st Century and try my hand at a Blog. I'd like to start by explaining "$3 Flip Flop Fiasco", which in my opinion needs no real explanation. Rather it is a musical adventure Steve, Ben and I decided to take. I figured with Steve's talents at attachiing poetry to hats, Ben's ability to survive for hours by doing nothing other than "getting ready" and my ability to jam on such instruments as the kazoo, the spoons, the large and small jug, and the radio. So with all these ingredients you have the makings of a very semi-successful Pop Band!
Alright I'm kidding! That was only funny to probably three people seeing the ratio of inside jokes to non-inside jokes. Anyway...
Right now I'm in Baghdad, Iraq, fighting the war on terrorism. As many of you have asked what my job actually is, here is a brief description of what I do. I'd like to preface this by saying this is not as exciting I'd like it, but I'm sure my lack of excitement keeps most of you happy. What my official job title is I'm the "Forward Operating Base (FOB) Deputy Commander", my job title in the company is the "Executive Officer". What I'm responsible for is the overall operations of the base, what that means in English is that I'm responsible for everything that makes a base work, the chow hall, the vendors who work on the FOB, the repairs and maintenance on the facilities, and the recreation facilities. Its not what I'd thought I'd be doing, but my seniority and rank have removed me from the leadership positions I used to have, so put simply this is what I get for climbing the ladder!
Right now my days are very long and there is never a shortage of things to do. Which for the most part is good, I keep busy and it makes the time fly by. I get to deal a lot with local nationals and the personalities I meet are extremely different than people we encounter. For starters people here are very polite or they are very outwardly aggressive. If you are one of those people who do not like to be touched a lot, then this is not the place for you. It is customary for men who are family or close friends to be hugged and kissed on the cheek. REALLY good friends even hold hands. There are a bunch of other neat cultural things I've learned. It is considered polite to touch your heart after shaking hands with someone, it shows that you are sincere. Giving the thumbs up is an obscene gesture, along with the "okay" sign, those are bad.
Well enough for today, I keep getting interrupted so its hard to finish a thought, I'll try and post more later.
For all of you out there please do not worry things are under control here, I love you guys and will see you soon.
email me about $3 Flip Flop Fiasco merchandise!
PeanutButterJam!!!! What's up dude???
How are the chics in Iraq? Do you get to see any parts of the Arabic women or are they all covered from head to toe?? Just saying hello and remember: Always Ski Low!!
Posted by: Mack Adams | January 20, 2006 at 02:44 PM
um that was KEEP...lol
Posted by: AMY aka your BIG little SISTER | January 20, 2006 at 09:49 AM
Aw....I so love reading this stuff PJ...man I miss u...I admire your GREAT OUTLOOK..your POSITIVITY,,,and yes please keeo things BORING over there!!
((((((((((hug)))))))))))
xoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Posted by: AMY aka your BIG little SISTER | January 20, 2006 at 09:49 AM
Hey, P.J.
My wife, Nita, and I met you at your folks' house in Raleigh a few years ago. I really enjoyed reading your stuff and I hope you keep writing...you are really funny! I hope things remain "boring" for you and your buds.
Bob
Posted by: Bob Carbon | January 16, 2006 at 07:32 PM
As the leader and representative of the Fat Pack, the fatbassador approves this message.
Brought to you by the same people who brought Starbucks to "the big Raq"
Posted by: fatbassador | January 14, 2006 at 02:48 PM