Let’s see. Some things that I have learned this week.
1. Treadle sewing machines are in need. I think that, to a “T”, all of the teams in AF see the need for them. They are a game changer.
2. They would need to be sustainable. I don’t know about you. but I look forward to a time when there are fewer or little or no US Forces in Afghanistan. So, local parts, local repairs, local services for the machines will be important over the longer term
3. There are a bunch of others working on putting more sewing and fiber-related goods into Afghanistan, in support of the CSTs and FETs. Check here to see. They have a whole other scale of effort underway.
4. And yes, there are folks looking at the economic aspects of it, too. Like Thunderbird. Really — that Thunderbird.
5. it’s way to hot here. I went for a run last night, leaving around 8pm, and it was still 107 degrees. 10 miles and some time later, after I’d cleaning up, it was still 97 degrees.
So, that’s what’s weighing on my mind these days. Bundles, super secret projects (#6 should kick off in about a week), and sewing machines. Oh, and that work these — there are still some angry / pissed off / violent people here in Baghdad, and we’re doing our best to help our battle buddies in the Iraqi Security Forces as they work to advance the security both of the city and the region. Never a dull day, never a dull day….