Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Local cuisine

Ok so the computers and phones are unsecured again so I can give all of you some insight into this "cuisine" the boss was talking about. First off, understand that the food we are provided here is ubundant, but not really varied. A lot of it is junk or snack food, and none of it entirely healthy (minus the V8 drinks that I consume in mass quantities. I think I'm starting to sprout veggies). Now sometimes when I have time, I will go downstairs and join the IP's and IA's in some dinner or lunch. This usually involves a big plate in the middle of the table (I use the term plate loosely, since it could just be a big buritto shell looking thing that they eat afterwards). On this plate is a lot of rice, vegetables, and various kinds of meat. I'm always a little cautious with meals like this, because they use their city water to wash it and cook with, and there is always the chance that Mr. City Water, and Mr. Ace's Stomach will not get along and then I will be using the bags that wag repeatedly throughout the day. Please do not get me wrong, the food is very good, filling, and the Iraqis are more than happy to ensure you get as much as you can eat. Granted it took a little while to get used to the lack of utensils on most occasions (I know everyone eating out the big group pile of food with their hands makes the American mothers gasp in horror). So far I am happy to report 0 sick Marines.

Now some Marines take it to a whole new level, by actually shopping in the local market for herbs and spices to help marinate the beef or chicken they plan on grilling that night. I once had to provide overwatch while they sampled the local ice cream (not that I'm complaining since it is a very important task).

Overall, the food here is adequate so no worries on the home front. We are doing good things here, rolling up bad guys, giving a hand to the good guys, and making sure things generally improve for the Iraqis.

Of note: I watched my first movie the other night (those of you who know my addiction to movies know it's a big deal that I went three weeks without watching one) and for those of you who haven't seen Super Bad, all I can say is: WHAT ARE YOU THINKING!?!?!!? GO OUT AND SEE IT RIGHT NOW!!!! NO !!! I DON'T CARE THAT YOU HAVE HOMEWORK!!! FORGET ABOUT LEAVING THE GAS ON!! SEE THIS MOVIE!!! At least that is what I would say if I wasn't over here in the sand box. Take care till next post.

4 comments:

Nadine said...

Please give me definition of "IP's and IA's". Enjoying your posts!!
Thanks RonK

Unknown said...

Glad to see you are being fed enough to keep up your humor. Actually it makes me really happy to hear you in such good spirits. As I sit here reading I can just hear your voice in my head and I'm just laughing. Of course you would be in good spirits since this is the job you've always wanted and had a passion for. I have seen Superbad and you are right everyone should see it. It's hilarious.
I thought I should inform you of some good news. After much persuasion I convinced the university that it was time for me to receive my degree. I said I put in my time, I know you are sick of listening to me talk so really let's just end this and hand over the damn piece of paper (which of course is fake anyway). No, actually it was hard to realize that my time in Chapel Hill was over. Thank you doesn't quite do justice for you introducing me to Carolina and seeing it's splendor. Thank you none the less. One day I'll repay you. Knowing I finally reached that goal was huge. And to think I thought I would never get in and wanted to go to Wilmington. Silly me. Keep up the posts. Good to hear how you are doing.
Love,
Nic

Marissa said...

Of course you like super bad... it reminds you of all those awkward times you were talking to Ashley and you go to give her a little nudge with your fist and end up socking her in the boob... ok I don't really know if that happened or not. But I love you soooo much brother and I hope to here more and more about your adventures.

ladybuggsb said...

of course you find it funny...you are perpetually 15 years old :) but we love you neways!