I'm Back!!!

Well, I am not all the way back yet... but, I am going back to Iraq for 8 fun-filled months...

A month ago, while in Thailand just after Thanksgiving (gallery.mac.com/dfaix for pics) I received an e-mail that said: we have a request for a Preventive Medicine doctor to go to Iraq, but don't worry, you aren't going to go

Three weeks ago I received a phone call that said: orders have come out for the PMO to go to Iraq, and your name is on them; but, don't worry because it is a mistake and you won't be going

One week ago I was told: we are still trying to change the name, but you might want to get ready just in case

Last night I was told: pack your stuff, you are going to Iraq

so, I am on my way...

If I wasn't such an optimist I might be bitter about "getting" to go to Iraq again wile others haven't gone yet... but, the Navy has often (usually!) sent me where I didn't want to go, and it has always turned out to be a great experience. I just hope the trend continues!

There will be some benefits to this deployment:
* I will get to run a lot--last time in Iraq I was in the best running shape of my life--maybe a PR marathon IS in my future
* I get to write this blog again--I have been missing it (although since I spend most of what used to be my free time with Izzy, it seems a fair trade off that I don't blog anymore!)
* Iraq is a wonderful weight-loss program--in anticipation I did nothing but indulge my every gastronomic desire during the last few weeks (Peg is too good of a cook!)