Day 186

I finally heard about my relief's status today. Just like when I flew out late from combat training, so is he...about 3 to 4 days later than I expected. That should put him here in barely enough time for us to turn over. So, I started creating more turnover material today so if something were to happen and he doesn't make it in time, I'll leave enough "bread crumbs" for him to have a partial clue on how to proceed. I doubt that'll happen, though. We should have 2 or 3 days, I'm guessing. I love it, though...the clock is tickin' in my favor!  You know what? I haven't mentioned what mile I'm at in a very long time...I was telling you before what mile I was at if this was a hundred mile race. Well, today I passed Mile 90!!!! Woot!!!

Today, it was a cool day...more snow on the mountains from last night's rain. It's so strange, here...I didn't see any rain since April. Nothing. Now, it rains EVERY single evening...steady. Right now as I type, I can hear the pouring rain hitting the metal roof over me. It doesn't rain in the morning or afternoon...just the evening. With that rain, the upper elevations are getting more snow and the snow pack is deepening. I hope to go out to my picture spot one last time before I leave and photograph the mountains with the snow. Been nothing but clouds, lately. That's the other change...clouds. We never had them all summer long and now, it's hardly ever a clear sky. Anyway, it's been nice to turn the air conditioning off in my room.

Wednesdays are supposed to be busy but today simply wasn't. Boring. I escaped for a few hours back to my room, though, and got some time to myself. Later on in the day, I had my bi-weekly brief with the northern part of the country where I brief the general. It's basically my 30 seconds of fame. Say what I have to say, be 110% accurate and ready to answer any question, and throw it back to the general. It went well and I'm happy to say, I won't be doing THAT anymore! Last one! (where's my relief? oh yea...he can take care of the next one...hehehehehe) Afterwards, we waited for the boss to wrap up his last conference call and we headed out for the night. There's really not much else to speak of today. Eventually, you know....there is going to be a lot to talk about. I can almost see that Yellow Brick Road...a little bit of glowing gold in the not too distant future in front of me. Patience...

Goodnight, everyone.