"Harvest" moon

Had a really nice moon last night.  Although the picture did not turn out very well (really need a tripod or some way to set the camera down) it was still a nice sight.  I don't think there is much to harvest around here so "harvest" moon may not be quite it - but still impressive.

Temperatures are getting down to something in the range of 5-10 Celsius at night now.  It is usually nice and crisp in the morning before the sun start baking me again by noon.  Maybe I'll try that moon shot again tonight.

Throne

Sometimes you just have to consider that things could always be worse.  All dignity aside, the latrine thrones are a better option than none at all or even the porta-potty.  Once you get used to it, all you can do is say hello to your neighbor and get to business.  It is especially humorous that they put curtain "doors" at the toilet - if you attempt to use the curtain it hangs down right in your face - good luck wiping with that there.  Sometimes you just have to laugh and say to yourself - I guess it could be worse!

reality check

Had a little wake up call this week that kind of has everyone on their toes again.  After a while of settling into a routine you tend to forget what is going on around you.  This is not the place for details so I won't be too specific.  Keep in mind that there are enemies out there that are bent on causing harm.  I'm glad that I don't know very many specific details or I'm sure I would have my bags packed and be on the next flight out of here.  You really have to trust God no matter where you are, whether it's in a war zone or even at home.
Sometimes it's the little things that remind you of home.  There was corn on the cob (at least I think it was) at supper a few nights ago - reminded me I was missing fresh, sweet juicy corn right out of the garden at this time of year.

9/11

Sure is strange to be here on 9/11.  It sure puts things in perspective when you are actually here to see a lot of what goes on.  You never really realize what is involved for our military to go to a foreign place and have to deal with what they do.  I really don't think I will be able to easily accept what I see on tv quite as easy ever again.  Glad I have had the opportunity in my life to see the reality of war so I appreciate what has been sacrificed in our counties history.
Thank God for our country!

God bless america too.

routine

Although it is good to settle into a routine, once you have been there for a while you realize that it may stay the same for a long time.  Sure, there are new people to meet and stories to hear but days seem to be rather busy but dull and hard to get excited about.  If you keep a good attitude and try to make your routine what you want, it seems to go a lot easier.  fortunately there are a few regular visitors that help with a little humor and good attitude.