Day 72

Really not much to say today. Mondays are like Sundays because the States are still asleep and don't get to work until our dinner time. Still, though, I stayed busy. As dinner time approached, I could tell they were all showing up to work back in Philly. I did have a teleconference video call with several key people in the northern part of the country around that time, too. The need I sensed before is real and it sounds like I'm going to be able to assist them in a HUGE way. It's always a great thing when you meet with someone who you think you could help and as the meeting starts, they describe their problem to you and your solution is PRECISELY what they need for that very problem. My read of the problem was dead on! It was perfect! As a junior officer among senior officers on the call, it was great to be in the driver's seat and be the one with the answers. There wasn't a question I couldn't answer. Now, if I can only put these things into place and have them continue well past my tenure, that will be a huge success up there. I was amazed at how much need they are in...and thrilled that I can be the one who will connect the dots for them and provide the mechanism for change. So cool! This will be a daily job, 7 days a week, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'll tell you this...it's all about relationships out here. With so much turnover and things constantly changing, missions being re-missioned, and the huge logistical challenges this country presents, it's about knowing the right people to facilitate your needs. Luckily, I'm that person for many.

Dinner and to my room was the rest of the night. I didn't get in until past 7pm and only wanted time to myself. No run...just a Coke Zero and popcorn while I watch a few shows on TV and chatted with friends online. I sure do have some awesome friends back in "Kansas." I also started researching a new camera...the Canon EOS 60D. I really want to up my game in photography. I'd love to see my work in art shows some day locally and capture what I already see in my mind but don't have the equipment to capture it. Thanks to a good running friend of mine, this camera should do it. Lots to read up on, though...so much I don't know and I must research first...buy later.

Goodnight, everyone.