Did I say something about “normal” and “routine” in yesterday’s entry? Did I actually use those words?

We had an earthquake today. This morning, at about 8:00 AM, the ground shook. Not just a quick rumble like when a bomb detonates. This was a long, drawn out, variable shake that lasted about 30 seconds. No report like an explosion has.

So not only is the Taliban trying to kill us from above ground, but now Mother Earth is trying to kill us from below ground. God I love it here.

Just re-read what I wrote. Interesting that I can describe the differences between an explosion and an earthquake. Yep, just another normal, routine day at the office.

Out.

As if things aren't bad enough, sometimes we get reports like these:

UXO explosion: 04 March, Herat Province, Zende Jan District – One person was killed when he stepped on an anti-personnel landmine. It is believed the device was deployed during the Soviet era.

UXO recovered: 04 March, Paktya Province, Gardez District, Gardez City – Five Soviet era anti-tank rockets were uncovered during construction work. The ordinance has been removed.

So not only does the local populace have to worry about getting caught in crossfire between Taliban & coalition forces, or being in the wrong place at the wrong time when a Muslim suicide bomber decides to make his debut, but they also occasionally get vaporized by old landmines left here as little reminders of Soviet occupation. Oh boy.