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Every journey is a learning experience, so learn about me as I share my experiences with you. I wish to remain anonymous, but you may refer to me as Atash Parcha.
I know I havent updated this in a very, very long time! But read my blog… that should give off heaps of info… 
Signed. 1 June 2009
The following information is true as at 26 December 2007.
1. What time is it? 12.36pm
2. Name: Atash Parcha
3. Name as it appears on Birth Certificate: Perhaps one day i shall answer this openly.
4. Number of candles on your last birthday: 21… love that number!
5. Color of hair: dark brown
6. Married: Not yet.
I deleted 7 *cheeky smile*
8. What color are your eyes? Medium brown
9. How much do you love your job, on a scale of 1 to 10? the job, i like it 7/10, starting to get boring as each day progresses.
10. Birth Place: Australia.
11. Current Residence: Kabul, Afghanistan. I like the sound of that 
12. Favorite food: Anything and everything, except for sheep head, sheep brains, eyeballs and all the other yukky parts. Yep, Afgs actually eat that.
13. Have you ever been to Africa? Nope, wouldn’t mind though.
14. Have you ever been toilet papered? You actually think that’s possible??? I’m atash parcha, remember?
15. Ever loved someone so much it made you cry? Yes, but i dont know for what reason! lol
16. Been in a car accident? yes, quite a few minor ones. i dont drive in Kabul, there are no traffic laws and no speed limits!
17.Favorite day of the week: Friday and Saturday (the weekend in Afg)
18. Favorite word or phrase: don’t have a favourite, but i’m listening to Nova 96.9 right now and i love how the host says ‘that’s a rippa’ it’s so aussie! lol love it.
19. Favorite Music: Iranian- Omid and Moien. Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston. Anything meaningful!
20. Favorite Restaurant: Cedars, Lai Thai and An Indian one. (all these are in kabul!!)
21. Favorite flower: gotta be fresh, tulips and roses
22. Favorite sport: i like playing pool and watching soccer!!
23. Favorite drink: h20 and orange juice
24. Favorite Ice Cream: not a fan of icecream, it’s alright.
25. Favorite fast food restaurant: NANDOES!!!! Maccaz, Hungry Jacks, all them good stuff i miss!!!
26 . What color is your bedroom carpet? Its a rug, maroon and creamy
27. Besides this one, who sent you your last e-mail? Dad
28. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? does it have to be one store? well, i’d go to a electronics store, buy the latest gadgets. Then to a furniture store and buy all the classy furniture, then to a clothes store, buy nice clothes and shoes. by the way, whats the limit on my card? hehehe
29.What do you do most often when you are bored: I’d find something to do, but if i get really really reallly bored. i cry! 
30. Most annoying thing people ask/tell me? strangers asking personal questions!
31: Favorite movie? devdas, dont have particular favourites. Anything with martin lawrence, comedies. i LOVE friends!
32. -
33. -
34. Favorite TV shows: Friends, Prison break, Raymond, My wife and kids, anything funny.
35. Last person you went out to dinner with? My lovely H-jan whom i love so very much.
36. Favorite Vehicle: Landcruisers and BMWs
37. Where did you go to school? Kabul university…. nottt!!! Australia, mate.
38. Favorite color: black, white, chocolate brown, anything classy.
39. Favorite Place on earth? home sweet home
40. Favorite Dream? i dont remember them or keep count of em
41. What are you doing this weekend? Not sure yet!
42: Is there a special someone in your life? Yes, shukor.
43. Favorite www site? Umm…they’re in my favourites list, but can’t remember any just yet.
44. Favorite holiday? Xmas and New Years, i LOVE the shopping sales
That’s all, folks!
~~~~~~~~~
The following is posted on 2nd January 2007
1.Pick out a scar you have, and explain how you got it?
A vertical scar on my upper lip. I had a cleft lip when I was born. It’s invisible and subtle.
2. What does your phone look like?
Since my last one was stolen, I don’t trust electricals in Afg. So i bought a crappy one for now until i go to Dubai where i’ll get the touch screen LG Prada
3.What is on the walls of your bedroom?
Ummm… nothing! I need to get hold of some nice paintings.
4. What is your current desktop picture?
A medium sized photo of autumn leaves with the sun shining through on a black background.
5. What do you want more than anything right now?
My family to return to Australia. I fear for their safety here.
6. What time were you born?
Hmmm i don’t know. I think early hours of dawn.
8. Last person who made you cry?
Two nights ago, just the circumstances.
9. What is your favorite perfume/cologne? perfume?
Chanel- Allure. My man got it for me after the other one was stolen.
10. What kind of hair/eye color do you like in the opposite sex?
Just like my man’s.
11. What are you listening to?
‘Hook me up’ by The Veronicas on Nova 96.9 fm… Melbourne Radio. ‘sometimes i wanna brand new day, trying to fit in where i dont belong.. hooooook me up! i wanna feel the rain in my hair. where should we go? i don’t even care’.
12. Do you get scared of the dark?
No
13. Do you like pain killers?
Nope, don’t like/consume any kinda medication even if i feel like i’m about to die.
14. Are you too shy to ask someone out?
I never have. But it wasn’t out of shyness, i had too much pride. And from here on, i don’t need to. i’ve found my one and only, alhamdulillah
15. If you could eat anything right now, what would it be?
Maccaz (McDonalds). I miss it and haven’t had it since arriving to Afg.
16. Who was the last person you made mad?
Umm, can’t remember. I don’t make anyone mad, i’m very compliant. Only when i want to be, that is.
Who was the last person who made you smile?
Before leaving to work, my baby sister gave me that cheeky smile where she wrinkles her nose. Oh, i miss her much much.
17. Is anyone in love with you?
Oh yes very much so, goshe shaytan karr. Alhamdullilah. My fiance.
And also, my family.
Until next time… 
hmmmm good to know u. i want a special some1!!! ok im thinking of makeing a blog… hmmmmm
anddddddddddddd?
Nazaneen: Go for it, matey! It’s a great online journal and you can look back on it years later. It may be a little annoying at first and at times you might feel like not writing anything at all (that’s when u write up about a random topic which may seem useless at the time but days later you’ll think ‘wow’.) Don’t forget to post me the link, i like reading blogs
Striker: Perhaps you’d like to elaborate on ‘andddd?’
hey jan nice blog…love reading it
im afghan_Sitara… on afghanforums.com…stay in touch!!!!!!!
Welcome on board, Sewitajan
Salaaam,
The fact that you’ve moved back to Afghanistan even if it’s for a short time, makes me call myself proud of you.
It’s only a few number of people who have a sense of serving their people and homeland and you are one of them.
Keep it up!!
*Smiles*
Nice work, keep it up Atesh Parcha jan…I envy you for that experience…I was born abroad too and I’ve never been to Afg…
Atash Parcha replies:
Stranger:
w/salaam. Thanks mate! I appreciate your support and believe me it’s a great feeling. I think everyone should have the intention of completing their education/ university studies and going to an under-developed nation and help in the reconstruction process- even if it’s not Afghanistan. And by helping, i dont mean to work for a Gov’t organisation which pays $700 a day- because that’s just taking from the country’s budget and the funds which should be assisting the people! I mean, forming an NGO (non gov’tal org.) eg schools, hospitals etc. That’s the REAL DEAL
Nasha:
Do not fear Kabul. The greatest fear is fear itself!! Do visit Kabul, there’s nothing to be afraid of. Let me know if your going to come, i’ll give you some pointers! But now is not the time, it’s FREEZING cold! Snowing! and coming from Aust where it don’t snow, for me it’s surreal! 
Thank u, thank u
Sewita:
Welcome on board!
Nazaneen:
Go for it, matey! It’s a great online journal and you can look back on it years later. It may be a little annoying at first and at times you might feel like not writing anything at all (that’s when u write up about a random topic which may seem useless at the time but days later you’ll think ‘wow’.) Don’t forget to post me the link, i like reading blogs
Striker:
Perhaps you’d like to elaborate on ‘andddd?’
Welcome on board guys, enjoy the journey
Salaam Atash Parcha,
How hard was it to transistion to living in the third world? It must have been great to come home to Afghanistan but at some point did you regret your move? What are some of the difficulites you have faced?
Tarikjan W/salaam
First of all, Kabul is not what you see in the news. It is much more advanced (don’t forget it’s been through 3 decades of war). Did you know Kabul has a 5 star hotel, western standards?!
Basically, the transition at some point was quite depressing. Leaving my home, my friends, my life- this was the toughest. But once I got here, i realised there’s so much more to life. So many more serious issues which need to be addressed- ppl here struggle to live just another day while over there i’d be doing somehting shallow like shopping. You feel so much more useful here, while some of your skills aren’t useful in the west, it may be the most prized possession to Afghans here.
It was hard, very hard and I do miss Australia but I really enjoy being in Kabul. I think anyone can do it as long as you take frequent holidays and leave the country to rejuvenate and prevent being ‘burnt out’. Kabul has many infrastructure which accomodates for foreigners, making their stay pleasant. so, the toilet isn’t a hole in the ground (kenaraab) its a proper seated toilet. There are supermarkets with Cadbury chocolate and western brands.
What was the greatest difficulty?
While i was in Aust, i felt like i didn’t ‘fit in’. Back home, I was always ethnic, Afghan and muslim! and so when i returned, i expected to fit in right away. But i was wrong! i didn’t get along with the locals (local afghans) here, i had trouble with my colleagues, i didnt and still don’t have any local friends. I, and many ppl from abroad, find it tough to trust the locals which sucks for those locals who are truly genuine. but at the same time, you CAN NOT compromise your safety. But of course, the afghan ppl are very hospitable and friendly.
Another difficulty is the security situation. I’m not afraid of suicide bombings (don’t ask why!) but i’m afraid of kidnappings and being held ransom. This happens a lot with afgs from abroad. so what’s the trick? you have to TRY to dress like a local (ie 10 years behind in fashion!).
I haven’t sincerely regretted my transition, there have been times when i was angry and i felt terrible about coming back, leaving everything behind. but overall, this has been the best educational experience i can ever think of. I never felt ‘Australian’- my values were different. Coming here, i don’t feel so ‘Afghan’ either. i’ve learnt that i don’t have my own country, i’m my own person! I have both in me and have quite happily embraced that. i’m a foreigner wherever i go.
Most ppl find it hard to get up and leave, my advice: Don’t think, just do it! If you don’t like Kabul, you can always go back. At least u can say u did it.
It’s been 10 months straight that i have been in Kabul with no holidays, i feel i need to get out for a while.
Hope i’ve answered your questions. Feel free to ask.
Cool Beans…
Thanks for the reply Atash Parcha, you answered all my questions. I have thought a lot about moving back myself. I feel that I ‘owe’ something to Afghanistan. Your story is very inspiring and will hopefully lead others back to Afghanistan.
No problem, Tarik. In my blogs, i hope to give off a true image of Afg the way it is. I don’t want to tell ppl it’s a garden of roses and then have them return and be disappointed. It is my sole objective to get the Afgs from abroad to return and help rebuild in the reconstruction process.
Having said that, let me make the following points clear:
1) Afg isnt the same afg our parents brag on about. it has changed dramatically- not so much the physical aspect but the people and the social atmosphere. Even my parents/aunts/uncles were disappointed since returning to Afg after 30 years.
2) UN reports show that the security situation in Afg has worsened since the demise of the Taliban. Even 2001, when afg was going through a major transition trying to recover from the Taliban times, was a more calmer year. So, imagine what it’s like now!
I guess one difference with the Taliban era and with the current regime is that the crime rates and corruption rates have hit the roof. Some ppl prefer the Talib to the current regime. It was more secure, no kidnapping threats, no stealing etc. but then again… Majority prefer the current US backed gov’t.
I know what u mean by saying a sense of ‘owing’. I felt the same. Should you return to Afg, at times u’ll feel defeated and let down. You’ll think ‘i’m here trying to help these ppl who are trying to rob from me, steal from me and kidnap me.’ but remain strong and defiant.
ba omideh dedaar, khuda negahdaar.
Hey Atash Parcha, great blog! Are you planning on moving back to Australia? You said you fear for your family’s safety. I pray Allah keeps you all safe & out of harm’s way. I’m planning on moving back to Afghanistan as well, bakhair, but in a few years when I’m done uni. We need more Afghans like you. Keep up the great work!
Ari:
YES!!! Do return, don’t be disheartened! If you don’t like it, you can always go back. At least you can say you’ve been to Afghanistan. What are you studying?
Your intention to return and help has put a smile on my face. Thank you for your kind wishes.!
All the best with everything!
Thanks Atash Parcha
. I never wanted to leave Afghanistan, and since the day we left (over 12 years ago) I’ve wanted to return. I’m not disheartened 
reading your blog makes me want to return even more. Although I know it’s not very safe, I feel the need to do something worthwhile for my country. I’m doing my major in biology. Does Afghanistan need a biologist?
-Ari
Ari:
Once again, it’s great that you have the intention of returning.
Afg is in need of anyone with university qualifications or extensive work experience. So, yes! We do need you.
I’ve always said that Afg is great if u wanna come back, work and make a positive contribution. If you come with the intention of ‘i wanna have fun’. You MIGHT be disappointed. But for you, since you may have friends/relatives here, and you have been here before, it might be a more joyous occassion.
You may check out which jobs (UN based in Afg) are available on this site:
https://jobs.un.org/Galaxy/Release3/vacancy/vacancy.aspx
or for national posts at UN agencies, international organisations (less pay- i’m talking upto 3000$US and not many work benefits) you can go to:
http://www.acbar.org
Navigate your way around, let me know how u go.
Hope it helps.
AP
Salaam. oh yes i have a lot of family back home, fortunately. Thank you so much for the sites. I will be sure to also forward these to a couple of my family members who are done uni & were thinking about going back. Thanks again & keep up the great work.
Ari;
W/salaam,
Pleasure. Do let me know if you need further assistance.
Glad to be of help and thanks for your support.
All the best.
Hello,
Finally I found a blog that shares my interests. Thanks and keep up the good work.
Hello,
great post..thank you for always putting so much information in your posts.
Hey Atash, Nice journal by the way. I have recently become an AU citizen and sometimes I think of returning to Afg but not sure if it will be a good move.
I am not sure what job opportunities are like there in Kabul, I have been working in IT for 3 years now, I have done my degree and further specialization in IT, but I don’t know if I can utilize my skills there.
What do you think? will it be a good move. I am not that concerned about earning money there as long as I get enough to get bye. Don’t get me wrong I am not bragging that I have money but rather that my move won’t because of earning money but rather trying to help out.
By the way what are the chances or finding a potential mate?
Good on ya. Great to see you’re motivated.
For jobs, go to http://www.acbar.com
These are national posts so the pay starts at $200US a month and goes up to $3000US a month. This is a good starting point. Once you have reached the criteria, you may apply for international posts. Here
However for UN jobs (more competitive) https://jobs.un.org/Galaxy/Release3/vacancy/vacancy.aspx
As for finding a potential mate, this is afghanistan, so why not!
Or you might even find someone who is also here from abroad with the same intention as yourself, ie to help Afg. You might click.
but also be careful of ‘fakes’ unfortunately afghanistan has become very chalbaaz. but Plenty of girls, depends what your expectations are.
all the best.
how u doin’ mate?! i is well, i hadnt read ur blog for centuries man…lookin’ good! anyhooo…
i will go now my dear friend, til next time – farewell.
Thanks for the reply Atash, I am a bit confused in the light of the situation there, however hoping that I will make up my mind soon. I guess I will need to do some further research…
As you said there are a lot of challbazz which makes it very difficult to find the right person there and bring them over here. But you can’t put every one in the same basket and you will never know if you don’t get into it.
Please keep up the nice posts…
My child- oh you are so predictable.
Raza- That’s very true. Corruption is at its peak here. We need more dedicated people to run this country.
You could be part of it.
Stay posted
The website Quqnoos.com is about to launch. It will have daily news in three languages (Dari, Pashtu and English) and aims to be one of the primary sources for news about Afghanistan. A whole varity of sections will pop up over time (sport, business, photo gallery, videos, features, opinions, biography on key players, culture/arts section). If anyone in this forukm can write and would like to contribute to Quqnoos in anyway( as a translator or writer), then please email me at miles.amoore@quqnoos.com.
Thanks for your interest.
Someone sent me the link to this website, that’s why I am posting.
All the best,
Miles
To smululu
Hey u. OMG!!! ur blog is great. srsly no jke. ur rlly good. i can see y u’d inspire so many pple. im proud of u sis *sniff*. lol anyways cant wait til ur back and see u soon. luv ya
Hey Sflulu,
Thanks mate, you can stop exaggerating now! haha.
Well i am back, and boy did we have ‘news’.
Luv ya 2
Jert… nice blog u have
hello,
I am currently in Afghanistan, sort of in the same boat! I came across your blog from a link in mine..which is chronicling my adventures in Kabul so far.
what are you currently doing?
Hi Hawadventeur,
What’s your link to your blog? I’m currently working in Kabul.
who allows someone like you waste valuable cyber space with the garbage you come up with?
I am very critical.. in a constructive sort of way… so take the above as a compliment lol
How can I start my own blog?
I have a lot to say
Maybe i should do my own research & find out…
Garbage, ay?
Wanna write your own piece of garbage? wordpress.com
(You should know this
Atash Parcha??? ingenious…what a fabolous name u came up with!!! I just got finished reading some of your postings and i must say i was flooded with so many emotions…I found myself gasping for air as tears rolled down my face, while moments later laughing, smiling and truly lost in another world…
As an afghan-american woman myself, who left my home land at 1 1/2 years of age. I too long for the little piece of aghanistan I can call my own…I’m so very proud of you for venturing into a world so self-less and allowing yourself to share your thoughts with the rest of your brothers and sisters in humanity.
I’m actually planning (InshaAllah) to come home next march 2009 through Global Exchange and would love to touch base with you for some insight…as u mentioned you would like to be anonymous and i can respect that so if you would like to chat through here that would be great!!
looking forward to hearing from you soon…
praying lots for you and ur lovely family for a safe and easy stay at HOME….
tk care….
I take offense at your bashing our hole in the ground and referring to the toilet as the “proper” one. I didn’t know there was a proper way for shitting.
omg babe ur the best im glad i found this!!! hiding ur id??? i would have done the same. its kinda hard being Afghan in a western world…
I just came across you blog and I loved this Questionnaire that provided good intro about yourself. I am a non-pashtoon but I am in strange love with Afghani and Pashtoon culture. I like xenocentrism and the cultural mixing up instead of being oblivious, hateful and ethnocenrtic about other cultures. The other day I finished reading ‘A thousand splendid suns’ and it made me know much about the afghan culture amid a never-happening peace in the region. Above all, I liked your blog….