"Dubai"

Where do I begin? Tonight has been such a treat to cap off a wonderful trip to Afghanistan. Our arrival began by meeting with Peter Chun at the airport, and then heading to eat dinner with Elder Kim. We drove through downtown Dubai, which is full of skyscrapers as far as the eye can see, and almost twice as many cranes could be spotted, which promise to bolster the skyline even further.

Though we were expecting humble kimchee to eat, we were taken to an upscale Korean restaurant where Bob and I each were able to enjoy a platter of marinated short ribs at the price of $45/plate ... elder Kim foot the bill. Kim deals in trading construction goods all over the world and his operation is housed from Dubai. Confirming his fiscal health, we gathered into his Mercedes and headed to the mission house where we are staying tonight.

This place is plush with everything from air conditioning (yes, ac is plush after being in Kabul) to memory foam mattresses. Though we have not accomplished any meaningful goals yet, this evening has served as a much needed oasis.

What we have found out so far:

• Elder Kim is the ideal contact to aid in surveying the economic climate in Dubai and the entire Middle East.


• Chun's relationship with him will be key in the growth of our ministry west.


• Mercedes can drive really fast.

Needless to say, I am very much looking forward to what tomorrow holds.