Thursday, November 22, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving!

One would think that Thanksgiving Day while deployed would suck- but I have to admit that today was a great day. We decided that due to low patient census the nurses would split our shift- some would work in the morning, others in the afternoon- so that we could all have some time off. I worked a normal, crazy morning shift and then took off to the DFAC for a Thanksgiving feast. The food was incredible. Realistically, it was glorified Luby’s holiday fare, but to someone that is getting used to our typical bland diet, today’s selection was fantastic. I think the best part was the real whipped cream on the pumpkin pie, since we never have any real milk products. Those of us gathered at the table told the story of our typical family traditions and which part we missed the most. I think for all of us, being away from our Mom was the hardest part. Apparently the rule is that no matter who you are or where you are from, Mom’s holiday cooking is always the best.

Today is beautiful in Baghdad. Completely clear blue sky, 75 degrees, and light breeze. I am currently sitting in the gazebo by my apartment soaking up a little sun. We just heard an explosion a bit to the north- but nothing close by or identifiable. I could see how the enemy would want to mess up our holiday, but hopefully today remains relatively calm.

You can tell that we are all a bit on edge…jumping at each strange sound…yet we are determined to not give up our comfortable place under the gazebo. Each time we hear an explosion in the distance Laura looks up from her book and I look up from my computer. We exchange a glance with a nervous smile before going back to what we were doing. Living in the Green Zone isn’t completely safe- we are taking a risk just being outside like this- yet we are determined to not live the next year in fear.

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