1. Never get involved in a land war in Asia.

2. Don't make fun of Blackwater on the Dubai-Kabul flight. All those big surly white dudes you see? Not on vacation.

3. Jalalabad Road, which connects Kabul and J-Bad, isn't as deadly for nimble civilian vehicles as it is for armored caravans of military personnel.

4. The nimble part is important, however. You do not want to get stuck behind donkeys. Or armored caravans of military personnel.

5. Taliban may be identified by their style of shoes and pants.

6. For some tribes, illiteracy is considered a virtue. Ironically, these are the ones whose attitude toward women is most egalitarian. The reason being: if you're nomadic sheep farmers, losing half of your work force is not an option.

7. The guest house where I am staying is currently providing the internet access for both the university and the hospital in J-Bad. The satellite dish is INFLATABLE! Pictures soon.

8. We are also the only bar in eastern Afghanistan. The firepit is made of mud. And love.

9. There is a tribe from Nepal who so impressed the British with their mercenary skills (100 years ago) that they have become a de facto race of assassins, and are chosen for security applications by westerners throughout asia still today. They are politically distinct from locals and dedicated professionals, as one would expect.

10. Call to prayer at 4:30 in the morning? Really? Really.