[Allegra]

Iraq is much calmer these days and the focus is on the rebuild now. The Iraqis are finally able to enjoy the combination of freedom and peace. They aren't willing to put up with any garbage from disruptive terrorists anymore. Everyone's guard is still up, but the locals are out and about these days and actually enjoying life again.

About chai - when I was working with one of the government ministries last year (through this past April), we were frequently served chai in meetings with Iraqi government officials. I love the stuff, but I was the only female on my mission and I had to walk a fine line. It's rude to refuse the chai, so I never did, but the err...facilities in that building were not updated yet, so I had to make sure I didn't drink too much of it. I had to keep water intake at a minimum as well until I got back to base. I also did not drink coffee on the mornings I went over there which was VERY difficult for me. ;-)

[wazoo1031]

I don’t care what this thread is about...Michael Phelps has the hottest body ever known...Slurp!

[Tennessean4Bush]

I had to keep water intake at a minimum as well until I got back to base. I also did not drink coffee on the mornings I went over there which was VERY difficult for me.

I am now fully dependent on morning coffee.

Thanks for the report from the front lines!