Bagdad 2:45am

Boy did that 10 days go fast. I cant believe it is already over and I'm on the go again. I'm stuck in Bagdad there are no flights to were I am going till friday. (it is 2:45am thursday) There are no words to express how greatful I am for everything everyone has done for Dina and I. I was stunned to how nice my house and garage looked. And how many people came to my party. It was so nice to see everyone. The comfort so many provide for Dina Provides so much for me as well. My poor puppies looked like they are starving. Except for the 50 extra pounds they have around there belly they look like they dont eat. Iraq does not look any diffrent. It is still just dirt. The people here have a long road ahead of them. Getting over years of bitter fighting will not be easy. I had the oppertunity while I was at home to do some fenceing mending of my own. It was long over due. Some times admitting when your wrong is harder than you think. I had not talked to my friends Wynn and Tamar for many years. I really missed them but was to pridefull to step up and due the right thing. I'm very greatful that I have such forgiving friends. I have learned being 6000 miles away and in my old age good friends are few and far between. Pride is not a good friend or comforting when you are alone. I am half way done with my contract almost. I was so sure I was going to do a second year. Now all I want is to get home to my wounderful wife for good. I'm still very appericative for the oppertunity God has given me to come here and learn and see how lucky we are to live in America. I will be praying in the future that I really appericat my country and life that I live. Compared to so many around the world we have so much. Well I am going to try and go back to sleep. I have a 7am meeting just to tell me I'm not flying today. I already know that. But I want to thank everyone who has done so much for Dina and I words can not express the gratitude I feel for all that has been done.
LOVE Jim

Homeward Bound

Here I am waiting for my flight. I leave Kirkuk go to Bagdad than to Doubi than Alanta than finally Louisville. I cant wait to see home. I am almost half way done (if i dont extend) with my adventure. It is nothing like I anticipated it would be. However right now all I can think about is home and my wounderful wife. (well my rotton dogs) I will only have 10 days, but boy am I looking forward to being home. I cant wait to go to my church. And I know my puppies will have lots of complaining to do. Dina is now Elaina's favorite and I need to get back in the number one position. I'm thinking a shopping trip, the park, what ever she wants. Maby she want a new puppy. Oh well what ever it takes. For the next 24 hours I will be flying or switching planes. I hear we have a great party planned. I am so looking forward to it. I evan get to attend a Baptisim. This will be a nice break. Wow they are already calling us. HOME I GO
Love Jim