After five months in the sandbox, I spent three glorious weeks at home with family and friends in Philly and D.C. during the Christmas, Kwanzaa, Channukah, and Islamic New Year holidays.  It has been refreshing to get away, relax, and think about the future direction of my life. 

Although the work we are doing on reconstruction and reconciliation throughout Iraq is meaningful, making a difference and deeply rewarding, I've thoroughly enjoyed being back in the U.S. and taking some time to decompress.  Now, it's time to return to the 16 hour days and seven day work weeks. 

One good note about being home is that I got to speak to my publisher and the book is coming along nicely.  I hope to see it on shelves when I return in another six months.