It's hard to believe that in a month I'll be celebrating four years of doing this blog. In the next few weeks I plan on trying to make a few changes in its appearance and content. I also hope to get back to posting on a more regular basis, even if only a few lines several days a week. I've been told by several folks that they keep track of me (and Donna, of course) via the blog. I'm a notoriously bad correspondent!

I may also change a couple of things at Shot's Shack, but only in regards to the links. Several are outdated and haven't changed since I originally linked to them. I may even add one or two.

Since I don't post as frequently as before, I sometimes feel that talking about a certain political or social event is a waste of time. Generally, a couple of days have already passed since it was in the news or I've already seen a dozen other bloggers saying pretty much what I would (although in a much more intelligent and knowledgeable manner).

That being said, I believe that we may be seeing some radical changes taking place in Iraq in the New Year. I don't know exactly what, but the events of the last few months seem to be leading up to something major. I would not rule out a coup or at least a major change in the Iraqi government, as it is now configured. I have to admit that I don't know how an increase of American troops into the country would effect things, for better or worse. I also have to state that I don't know how I feel about that.

You could make the case that putting more troops into Baghdad, even temporarily, might aid in keep those already there safer. However, what then?

I don't know that an rapid withdrawal is the best answer, since it would cause a horrible situation for any coalition troops or Iraqi citizens who worked with/for our forces left behind. Those of a certain age will well remember the footage of the our final days in Vietnam, with troops and civilians all trying to get on the last few planes & helicopters.

That being said, I think that it's time to gradually begin redeploying both American and allied units. Certain areas in Iraq are beyond the ability of our troops to keep secure. Week-long sweeps, followed by withdrawal have proven ineffective as various factions simply move back in. It might be that all we can do is to ensure that the citizens of Baghdad remain safe in their homes from attack. Perhaps, if we can do that things will settle down long enough to allow a further decrease in all non-Iraqi military.

Better minds than mine are working on all this, so I think these will be my final comments on the situation until after the new Congress begins meeting in January.