Never in a million years did I imagine that I would be saying goodbye to 2010 from Baghdad Iraq. The thought did not even think about entering my mind. Oh well. That is what makes this life so interesting. A friend and I were eating dinner last night when he said, "I can't believe 2010 came and went so quickly." Those were my thoughts exactly. It was a very fast year.
It has been an interesting week. We are still in Baghdad. I will actually be living in Taji, which is about 25 miles north of here, or so I've been told. Originally, we were told we would leave Thursday or Friday. We are maybe leaving sometime this weekend. Maybe not. They weren't kidding when they said the key was flexibility. All I know is that I have already finished 3 books and am ready to start teaching.
I did finally figure out what I will be doing here. My official title is advisor/mentor. I will be working with the Iraqis to set up an English program. There are several locations around the country. Our jobs are to teach the courses, teach the teachers, team teach the courses with the teachers, and then step back and let them do their thing. With the military getting somewhat ready to leave, we are not entirely sure how long we will be here, but, that is the goal. It is my understanding we will be teaching Air Force Cadets. Because English is the language of aviation, it is incredibly important for the future Iraqi pilots, as well as everyone else in the sky, that the people flying the plane can understand the commands given and are able to communicate. I am looking forward to doing my part to help the people of this country.
It has been raining all day and cool. It actually sort of feels like winter. I had the opportunity to go to a different base today on a sort of field trip. It is right next to this one so it wasn't far. I also got to see the Embassy...or at least the walls around it. Apparently, this is the biggest US Embassy in the world. Something around 160 acres. All I know is that the walls are tall.
In other news, I am slowly getting over jet lag. There was one night this week I was awake for a few hours for no reason in the middle of the night, but other than that, I seem to be adjusting. The food here is great. I have no idea how it will be in Taji, but for now, I have zero complaints. There is plenty to choose from. I don't have my camera so I don't have any new photos for now. I will be getting it soon enough and then able to give you an idea about what it is like here. I will also give my address at the bottom in case any of you are interested.
Well, best wishes to all of you for the New Year. I hope it is a great one for all of you.
Love,
Matia
Matia Wilson
821 ETS Unit 6045
APO AE 09378
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