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Email from PsyOps in Baghdad:

Patty;

The first six boxes evidently got here pretty quickly--we were lucky. I certainly hope the lady who had to evacuate has more luck, and is able to go home as soon as possible. Please tell her the troops over here are very concerned about the impact Katrina has had on so many lives--units are trying to organize a diversion of excess supplies to assist the evacuated victims instead.

So, we were able to surreptitiously open the boxes and take stock today (remember, this is theoretically a surprise to most of the crew *g*)

We rec'd the Rose's Lime Juice and the maraschino cherries just fine. Also rec'd six flower branches, two bags of crushed pineapples in juice, 10 cans of tropical fruit salad, the straws, the toothpicks, 1 bag shredded cocoanuts, stir sticks, and the DVDs.

Plus lots of MWR stuff mixed in, for which we are suitably grateful. Thank you!

[bjcintennessee] sent a box of neck scarves, and we will be sending her a thank you as well.

We have our family members chasing down final items, and are taking the money raised here to order things online. To make certain we do not duplicate stuff, there were just a few questions (there are always questions!)

You have referred several times to recipe tryouts--are you going to send us the ingredients as well as the recipes, or let us know enough in advance what we should be getting?

And should we be ordering bottles of mixer (like for Margaritas) We've been so busy (although evidently not as busy as you) that I've lost track a little on that plan.

Elsewise, we are keeping an eye out for the leis and drink umbrellas *g*

By the way, at SSG **'s direction we have gotten a shirt for the big boss to wear labeling him "The Big Kahuna" heheeehe.

This is going to all be great. Morale here has definitely had its ups and downs; this luau is going to put everyone in a better place.

Much thanks as always for your efforts; stay healthy and happy, know that we are thinking of you.

v/r

SPC **

[Totals for what we are sending are in the post above, addressed to all]