Elections in Full Swing

Elections are in full swing in Iraq! I am starting to think I need to update this blog twice a week or take notes or something!! This has been another whirlwind of a week and I can't even think of what has been going on with Drew! Things are nuts! He has had up to three missions per day with 24 hour checkpoint security thrown in. He has tried to get to the gym for his version of "down time" but has been interrupted as more missions come up. As Drew's boss explained, in the United States, politicians campaign for years. In Iraq, they campaign for 2-3 weeks. This election will essentially decide which group has control over the city so things are intense. Even amidst all the craziness, Drew did have the ever-so-coveted day off this past week. We had so much fun! We were able to hang out together and Drew was able to go to the gym, clean his room, and have time to himself. So thank God for that! Then it was right back into it for the last few days. One day even took longer than planned because he got a flat tire and had to sit there and wait. One plus is the food. Drew loves falafels!! Falafels are a local food which are really popular over there. I think Drew has one everyday! One day they were taking pictures because his group bought over 40 falafels. He has yet to send pictures but I'm sure I'll share when I get them. :)

Last weekend I was able to pull off a really fun surprise for a good friend. Her husband sent out an email to all of us announcing a surprise b-day dinner for her and he was quite surprised when I responded that I would be there. Why not?!!? We had a great time on Friday night. Saturday, I went with my parents to Kansas City to see my sister and brother for a night. It was definitely not enough time as I only got to see a few people but I will plan more trips soon. The only downside of the trip was that I did not get to see Drew's parents. I had them on my agenda (yes, I have agendas when I come in town) for Thursday night dinner but my flight was delayed and I got in really late. Darn!! We were so disappointed! Next time!

Here's a neat picture Drew took of his gear on his truck. I love that he has a hunting sticker on his truck. Nothing like pieces of home in Iraq!

This is the friend I surprised Christina and her husband John. I wish this was better but I forgot my camera and had to use my phone.

This is in KC. We were trying so hard to get a picture of the snow but you can't see that it is really snowing.

It started accumulating so we got one with the snow! You have to understand- it was 70 and sunny in Savannah today so it is fun to see snow!

Drew would normally be right in the middle of this beer tasting with Dad and Wade. They both ordered one of Drew's favorite beers to begin with in honor of him. :) We all cannot wait until he can join us!