Shaku Maku is a slang term frequently used by Iraqis.  It is also unique to them - not used anywhere else. It is roughly equivalent to the American “what’s up?”  The term is not Arabic which might be suprising.  Many people therefore think that it must be Persian or Turkish; it is not.  In fact, it is Babylonian in origin and about 3000 years old!  Interesting.  The phrase is just one of  those that is easy to say and remember,  rolls off the tongue, and has that certain ring to it.  And the common response to it, well, what most of us usually say:

“Makushi”  (not much)

Thought I would pass on this interesting article that sums up what is currently happening in Iraq.

ARTICLE

STAY WARM!

Ramadan – Each year, Muslims spend a month in daytime fasting, during the 9th month of the Islamic calendar called Ramadan.  They not only fast, but they don’t drink (this includes water), abstain from any physical contact, and anything they might consider worldly.  A time to cleanse the body and renew it spiritually.

Red and white checkered headdress – Generally of Jordanian origin. Wearer has made Hajj and comes from a country with a Monarch.

Black and white checkered headdress – The pattern is historically of Palestinian origin.  Black and grey represent Presidential rule and completion of the Hajj.

Confused, so am I!  One last note, all military personnel when leaving the posts must abide by the rules of each observance or be prosecuted.  Crazy!

364th Civil Affairs December Newsletter

Ok, now let me explain the hookah.  It is Muslim tradition that anyone who rides the camel must do the hookah.  I didn’t really know this when I hopped up on Nessie!  It is very bad to refuse, someone told me it is like slapping them in the face.  So, just do it.  Some of you may have heard of them, the whole concept is hard to explain, I will let you do the research on this one.  This concludes R & R in Qatar!

1. The Labermeiers – who are trying to fatten me up!
2. The Lunds – like the homework excuse, “The dog ate it!”, this time it got handed in.
3. Tari Costello – did you forget anything?  I need more stuff!
4. Tony – You’re gonna have to go through hell, worse than any nightmare you’ve ever dreamed. But when it’s over, I know you’ll be the one standing. You know what you have to do. Do it.
5. Wally and Char Riel - you certainly have found my weakness!
6. Don & DiAnna Mueller/Jim & Sue Cosgrove – there is nothing like homemade goods!  Great idea with sealing method.

Tomorrow, some pictures of R & R in Qatar.

(for a few days)

1.  After further review, I have one bottle of hot sauce that says “desert” and two that say “dessert”
2.  More than likely I will be out of the area for the next few days
3.  “Yedinak Call” – I now have to go with the mail clerk to pick up packages at the mail drop; she said they are all mine anway!  Called me spoiled.  ha ha
4.  Don’t necessarily like doing it  this way, but I am pressed for time here.

• Dave & Karen and friends – thanks for the items sent, especially the card from the students and putting me in the holiday spirit.
• Heather and crew – never a dull moment, let’s see, I can only highlight 2, the Propst stocking and your school pictures!  Amazing!  Nothing written on the back though?  Where’s the personalization?
• Lisa & Craig Yedinak from Texas – the starfish ornaments are awesome and many thanks for thinking of me and keeping me from shedding the lbs.
• The Van Buren’s/Advisory/Mrs. Reinerio – Wow, thanks.  There is always that special touch you have.  The card, the ornament, the little things that mean a whole lot.

5.  Like the Pied Piper, whenever I walk to the front of the tent, everyone follows.  There is a table up there which I share the many things, you have all sent.  I am sure if they wanted to transfer somewhere else, the people here wouldn’t allow it.  Put a quick stop to it.  They love you all!

Once again, many thanks for everyone for their support! 

PS  Happy Birthday Mrs. Yedinak!

PSS  I know I received some of these items early, that’s OK.  You never know with the military mail!  Better early than never.