2 Short Logs from the air base in the desert

Wednesday 25 Nov 2009 (+3)
Today is the first day in Iraq. With six days of “pre-deployment” across the Atlantic spent in D.C., Lajes Field, and Sigonella, the day has finally arrived. Coming in as -2 of a section approach passing through 4000 feet overcast, this base has so far impressed me. Airborne, it is huge. The north side of the runway is filled with buildings that I will have to time to explore. Supposedly there’s a Subway, Pizza hug, Coffee shop and all – but the Dining Facilities (DFAC) are free! Guess it depends on if I get sick of hot meals…
These “cans” we stay in are like mini college dorms. Bunk beds and a closet to each person… not bad. Except I left my keys to the trunk padlocks at HOME – stupid move. I actually had to break into my own trunk locker. Then I had to tackle the gun holster assembly, too. Reading od directions are pretty difficult. It was nice when we got in today (a grueling 5+45 flight), we ate cake from a re-enlistment, went to the DFAC, and enjoyed “Roll’em”, the squadron’s way of having movie night. Star Trek. Good movie. Just learned I’m on the night shift, so I’m going to wake up at 9:30am and workout, hit up chow, then study/look busy. My roommate is the incomparable Intel officer, Amy Hough. She is known for working 20 hour days by her own choosing and merit. Academy grad, she’s a force to be reckoned with—its kind of intimidating because she’s the same rank, yet she actually is a professional at what she does… at least I think so. Anyways, its 1:29AM and I’m still working on Italy time zone. Must work on the routine. My guitar and new keyboard and here and will be opened shortly. ☺

Happy Thanksgiving!
Thursday 26 Nov 2009
Woke up today at 9:30 AM. Snoozed for 30 minutes because I was afraid of waking Amy. Turns out she wasn’t even in there sleeping. With the shades down it feels like nighttime every time the lights go off, which makes it easy to sleep! I felt guilty sleeping in so late, but I’m trying to stay as nocturnal as possible to get ready for flying at night. I’m a little nervous for flying on goggles because I lack so much experience. Guess this is how you get it.
Did more exploring today. Went to the gym at an off-peak hour (10:30am) and got lazy for the good shower. I settled for the closest head which was an icy cold one. I’m going to think about showering before bed now. Tried to go the NEX, forgot my ID. ☹ Take 2 tomorrow. I hear a jet coming in for the break! Whoa… ADD. Anyways, the DFAC served turkey at LUNCH – I the first two meals today, and my Thanksgiving consisted of a burrito and beef fajita! Mexican thanksgiving? Haha. Oh, I feel like a POS JO for the moment – I got told maintenance found my green flashlight lens in a jet. FAIL.