Christmas Eve in Kabul

For all of those that can't stand the hustle and bustle, I'll trade you straight up. You see, the picture on the left is Norfolk not Kabul. Take 10 minutes to go into that ole koot's neighborhood tonight to just stare at the lights and decorations he spent the last month putting up. They are awesome, aren't they? You'll probably see a manger scene or something to remind you of the true reason.

The decorations along the streets that went up right after Thanksgiving are courtesy of your hard earned tax dollars, but they are beautiful and make most smile. The cakes and cookies and chocolates are hard to escape...including the extra 5 lbs we all strap on...but we love it.

The visits from families that we love (and hate) to be around, but for some reason always end up together with during this time of year...enjoy them.

You see, none of that it is in Afghanistan, except the 5 extra lbs...thanks to all of you and the postman! But I have visions of Christmas past and those of Christmas future in my mind. I am even enjoying the tug and tussle in mall stores and trying to find that last parking spot at the mall, wedged between the suburban and the Winnebago parked out in the back 40! Why? Because I will be with you, celebrating the birth of Jesus!

Until then, I am going to sing some carols tonight during a candle light service, in a walled camp in the center of Kabul, then pop in my [all year long] favorite movie, Christmas Vacation. So, from me, cousin Eddie, and 100,000 others wishing they could trade places, please enjoy the season. Seek Him, wise men! And most of all, have a wonderful Christmas.