Week 7

I am not sure what the requirements are for citing sources on a blog. In order to keep from getting charged with plagiarism, I will divulge the source of my 'neat new facts'. Last weeks and this weeks neat fact come from a book titled 'A history of Civilizations' by Fernand Braudel. On that note.

This weeks interesting fact or bit of knowledge: (Disclaimer: much of this may be common knowledge to many people. I have lived a sheltered life, so these bits of knowledge are very new and neat to me. Please spare my feelings if you can ;) )

During it's hey day, Islam was very successful in various scientific fields. It was the source of some great mathematical and astronomical insights. It was also very advanced in the field of medicine. In the above cited book on page 80 it says, "More than half the remedies and healing aids used by the west came from Islam".

This week has been pretty busy work wise. Mechanics are sometimes referred to by the title of grease monkey. If I were to receive such an affectionate title, it would be dust monkey. It always amazes me how much dirt and dust can collect in this equipment. Will was finally able to get out of Baghdad and brought me home a bunch of treats. I had left my sleeping bag in Baghdad because I didn't think I would have enough room to bring it. Will was nice enough to pick it up and bring it back for me. Along with that he also brought back a bunch of girl scout cookies I ordered when I was there but was unable to pick up. These cookies are evil. I have been trying to practice self control by only eating one Samoa a day. It hasn't been working. I had three today, plus I don't know how many thin mints. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

'They' started charging for chow. Every one has to fill one sand bag before you are allowed to eat. I started out counting how many sandbags I have filled, and since have lost count. It is a little bit of a hassle when you hungry, but it could be a lot worse. That could be someones full time job.

Thank all of you for you opinions and insights into my spare time dilemma. I have decided to start learning ASL and have ordered a bunch of curricula to start learning on. I will try to do the half pipe if I can acquire the materials. The robot is still up in the air. I will definitely try to create some sort of electronical device, but probably not as complex as a robot. I will keep every one posted as these projects progress and will try to put up pictures somehow. I look forward to keeping you all informed.