Hmm, ever consider a Baghdad assignment? There's lots of work there.

I understand the making friends part. I may be headed back to Iraq for a bit just cuz I miss my sadierkis.

Though I offer this sentiment, after being away from the wife and kids and suburb home for a year, I want more than anything to have it all back. As much as I miss my buddies back in country, I've missed family and home significantly more. It's a tough balancing act to try and get the best of both worlds. I've felt very alone.
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The ultimate result of shielding men from the effects of folly is to fill the world with fools.
-- Herbert Spencer, English Philosopher (1820-1903)