Day 8 - 3 September 2012

I was finally able to get some sleep last night! I got about 7 hours total...feel MUCH better. I was able to chat with Meagan a little bit and even listen to some of the race on iHeartRadio; turned it off when Jimmie was wrecked. Then, I headed over to Green Bean Coffee before going to the USO to call Meagan.

I haven't had a cup of coffee in a while, so I went to get just a regular cup, nothing fancy. While waiting in line, I saw a sign for their "Cup of Joe for a Joe" campaign (http://www.greenbeanscoffee.com). It's actually a great thing they do, allowing Americans to donate free coffee to support the troops. I signed up and now just wait to be allocated a free cup! Very cool!

I was a little disappointed to find the USO closed when I got here, but now know they do so every day. So, I headed back over to the coffee shop to chat with Meagan. I feel bad about keeping her up so late, but it was sure good to see her face and hear her voice!

I went back to the USO, set up this blog, then headed to my room to update it. I certainly won't post any critical information...that's just plain stupid. But, I will use it to keep my journal of thoughts, feelings, and as a reminder of my time away from home.

Lunch was delicious! I had a chef salad and chased it down with a cheeseburger! I know, I know...hard life, right?

Today is killing my sinuses. The wind is blowing pretty strong and dust is flying everywhere! I'm going to have to remember to bring the allergy stuff home from work with me tonight!

Ready to Roll

Somewhat of a busier day today. Was able to get access to the shop. I also set up my Eagle Cash card. Basically, it's a debit card you can use here. So, I can transfer, say, $20 a month for my use. There are no coins here and I really don't want to bring home a stack of paper pogs they use in their place. I also set up my armor. It was kind of surreal, but threats are out there and we have to be ready!

Dinner was pretty good. I had a side salad with sweet and sour pork over rice, a roll, and some fruit cocktail.

Yeah, I buzzed it...

I can't wait to talk to the family tonight! It may be quick, as I think I have to start work a little earlier tomorrow. Plus, I threw the decongestant in my bag so I can take it tonight. This dust is killer! Smoking doesn't help either, but I'm working on that...

I called Meagan and talked for a little more than 30 minutes. We're hoping to video chat later, but the internet is down, so we'll see. In the meantime, before bed, I buzzed my head with a no. 1 guard. Should keep the temperature down on the head a bit!