An Iraqi sunrise to end 2006

It's been a rather eventful last couple of days in the Middle East, and our brother in law, Mitch, about to start his fifth month serving his latest tour with the Marines, says he will "lose no sleep over" the execution of Sadam Hussein. You do what you gotta to do focus on your job, and count the days until you get to some home, which won't be until the spring.

Sports continues to be a nice distraction for Mitch, although the digression of his Indianapolis Colts isn't much for him to cheer about lately. He emails on the final day of the year -- Iraq is 10 hours ahead of us here on the West Coast -- so his New Year's Eve party has probably already started.

How is all on this last day of the year?
Sorry my picks took so long but I have been a bit busy. For the college games, it will be USC over Michigan in a tight Rose Bowl, and for the national title, Florida over Ohio State, which will start to show in the 2nd half. No pro picks -- too many teams that have locked up spots will bench players. I finished 3rd in the fantasy league here. It's a little strange. I should have been first, but that is a conversation for another day.
For the Lakers, a triple overtime loss against the Bobcats? Come on. Odom, get well soon and I mean soon. Kobe and the boys need you. I must say they have done pretty well, but Radman has to stay consistent. This hot-cold stuff is OK for Morrison not for Rad. How about Bynum looking real good and Kwame too. We will see. I think next year it is ours, when we use Grant's 15 mil to get Garnett.
Well take care. It is cold here; it's been in the teens ... burr. Here is a new picture of a sunrise over Iraq. The birds are everywhere, huge ravens, I will start a new class tomorrow, so I will send more photos. Have a great
new year. -- Mitch

Mitch's previous emails:
Dec. 1
Oct. 12
Sept. 19
Sept. 11
Sept. 9