Friday Night on Thursday

Well, tonight is my big social night because tomorrow is our day off. It's all pretty exciting over here, but not to the point the Afghan police will be called in to respond. Here's the routine: (1) I get back to the compound from work around 5:30, change into civvies and head over to the Connecticut House where they have washing machines and there I put in at least one load. While we have a gentleman assigned to the house to do laundry, I really prefer to do my own... they fold the clothes on the dirty floor. (2) There is a group of us (I'm the only girl) who then walk over to the International Security Assistance Force Compound (Gen. Petreaus's base) through the US Embassy (they're usually sitting around drinking wine/cocktails because they can... we envy) for dinner. Lately, we've been going to one of ISAF's many restaurants... they're basic but a nice change from the regular cafeteria food. Tonight we're going to try a pizza night, ordering from a local joint that delivers believe it or not. I'll let you know how that goes. (3) We then return back to our compound for movie night (I put clothes in the dryer) in the Connecticut House lounge (I live in the Grant, but the guys in the Conn have adopted me)... it's normally a "kill lots of people" kind of movie. I've been pushing for a "chick flick" but have failed miserably in that endeavor. (4) I then collect up my laundry and head back to the Grant House, in bed before 10 PM. In a later blog I will share my traditional day off. But be prepared, it's not as exciting.

A couple of things I told you I'd share. Massoud was the Northern Alliance commander who helped defeat the Soviets who invaded back int he 70's/80's. An amazing guy actually, but like most capable Afghans he was assasinated in the end at the age of 48. After reading his story of amazing heroism and belief in his people, I found many similarities to our own George Washington, but far from synonymous.

As for the haircuts. I paid $10 each for our haircuts and then $5 for the torture session they refer to as an eyebrow shape. Oh man, I hope the Taliban never get their hands on that string because the international military units would be outta here soonest. Let me rethink that one.

Hugs for all today because my heart is just full of love for all of you.