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March 17, 2009
Afghanistan -- Month Three (Part 2)
I know it has been too long since my last post. So, here is the continuation of the post from last month. They are from Kapisa and represent my experiences there in January and February.
The mountains are truly breath taking. Although much of the snow has melted now, it's still very pretty.
This is the sunrise one morning before we left on a mission.
Here is a typical village in southern Kapisa.
This road/trail is an example of the kind of starting point we have for road projects. As you can see, it was in very rough shape, but is representative of the rural roads in Afghanistan. We won't make this road into a highway, but we hope to (at least) enable two-way traffic at speeds greater than 10kph.
This is the Naghlu Reservoir, which reminds me of some places the Western US.
The Lakehouse.
We have many meetings to make sure everyone understands what the plan is. In this case, that requires three languages: English, Dari and French.
The reservoir again.
Another view out of the Lakehouse.
These boys were very interested in what we were doing.
They had a good time hanging out and chatting.
This is the coalition team that we went with. As you can see, it's American and French.
The guys.
Terry and a French civil-military Captain whose job for the French Army is very similar to what we do for the US. Fortunately, our organizations have a great relationship which allows us to work well together.
This is the same scenario, from a different perspective. In fact, you can see me in the lower left corner.
I love this man's beard.
The green girl.
Another typical southern Kapisa image.
I always find the doors interesting here. It seems to be the architectural focal point.
Moving with the French.
This is the most traditional form of government in Afghanistan ... the shura. Here we have local leaders gathered from around the area. The Afghan government set up and ran the meeting. We just joined to pitch a few ideas and tell the people how our projects will affect them and the manner in which their government enabled them to happen. The more Afghan people understand how their government works for them and trusts the government is around for the long term effort, the more stable the area will be.
No, these kids weren't being arrested...
Many kids have slingshots for fun and to hunt.
These were our luxury accommodations for a few days. I'm using the cot in the middle to plan our mission with the French.
Another meeting with the village elders along with the ANA who provide security in the region.
Jon just chillin'.
Naghlu is even prettier in the late afternoon when it's flat as glass.
Terry, Matt and Rakes.
Winter wheat is a very important cash crop in this area. It seemed to be in every valley floor.
Here you can see the ruins of a village. I'm not sure if it was destroyed in one of the wars, or it was merely abandoned. Either way, this is what it looks like today.
It was another amazing month in a country full of surprises. There is still much strife, but the overall direction is one toward peace and the potential for prosperity. We try to help in a few small ways to make that ideal come to fruition.
Until the next post...
--Jim
Posted by jim at March 17, 2009 09:56 AM
Comments
Jimmy-
You have always been Jimmy Gingras in my mind and my memory. I can't believe I found this website. I am so impressed by your photos and so thrilled to know where you are. I believe the last time I saw you may have been around the time of my wedding. We just celebrated our 20th anniversary. You have become a very impressive man. Your wife is beautiful and looks like the perfect match for you. I hope you are well and you stay safe. I will keep an eye on your posts. Godspeed-- Sarah Markwardt
Posted by: Sarah Markwardt Stout at March 19, 2009 09:10 PM
These are amazingly breath taking and inspiring, as a painting, delicate and profound. LOVE that mans' beard too! The beauty in everything is: speechless. Thank you so much for sharing, I cherish these elements of humanity, and it brings me to a feeling of nostolgia; maybe someplace my spirit traveled in a past life. Not that it's not real and beautiful in real-time/present; it's just that things are so corrupt in the world as it is currently; that it's hard to realize the awesomeness in it. For what it is. And, hopefully, to grow therein as you also touched on. Tres inspiring.
*Peace and Tranquility, Sincerely, Regina
Posted by: Regina at March 20, 2009 09:38 PM
Jim,
I was just thinking of you and was able to be with you through your website. Thank you again for sharing your pictures and thoughts. It gives us all an opportunity to be part of your life. Your talents, training and qualities are being used to the max!
Love you, Mom
Posted by: Chris at March 26, 2009 12:58 AM
Hey Jim,
Just a quick note. I don't get a chance to visit your site often but it sure is impressive. You're a fantastic photographer. Super images. Continue doing great things out there. Be safe, Craig Hess
Posted by: Craig Hess at March 28, 2009 09:22 PM
Remarkable and breathtaking.
Kudos to you and everyone with you.
Speechless,
Kelly
Posted by: Kelly at March 31, 2009 07:21 PM