From Russia, With Love - Part 2

On my way out of the hotel today to resume my Moscow excursion, I picked up a map that offered free guided tours.  I registered using my phone, asked the taxi driver to take me to the starting point, and off I went on a walking tour of the Red Square area.

Remember, it's cold as a booger bear here, but walking was a terrific way to see everything up close.  The guide was a great guy, personable, warm and very informative.

The tour began in this public square, which is about two blocks from Red Square.

This church is across the street from our starting point.  It is a beautiful, bright pinkish, rose color.  We learned the history, then we went inside.  Ladies had to cover our heads, guys had to take off everything on their heads.  The rooms inside were small and sectioned off.  But most impressive was the gold that was everywhere.  Framing pictures, built into the walls, etc.  Interestingly, the church had no pews.  You are expected to stand during the service, with benches against the wall for those not able to stand for health reasons.

Like the UAE with a mosque on every corner, Moscow seems to have a church on every block.

Here's another one.

This building above is being renovated.  Look above the blue line, and below the grey area, and you'll see a tarp that is painted on the outside to look like the building.  I saw this a lot and thought it was a clever way to hide the work being done.

This is Lenin’s Mausoleum.  They could learn a thing or two about burying the dead from the Egyptians.  The pyramids are definitely cooler than this dome.

This picture and the third one down, I found online.  I couldn't capture the scope of it with my camera.  This building is across the way from the dome, and looks like a very serious office building.  It is not.  It is a fabulous mall, filled with every high-end store imaginable.  It's called the GUM.  Check it out below.

One of the last things we did was visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and watched the changing of the guards.  It was amazing.  I have videos, but I'm having trouble uploading them.

As the tour ended, I asked our guide for the best place to get a taxi, and he suggested I take the subway.  I did and loved it.  When I was going to purchase the ticket, a wonderful woman asked if she could help and she and her grandchild not only walked me through the process, but insisted I stay with them.  They exited one stop ahead of me.  They were a Godsend.  This subway has to be one of the cleanest, and most efficient in the world.  I'm so glad I rode it.  I felt like a local.  It cost 30 rubles to travel the same distance that cost 1500 rubles by taxi.  

As we were chatting, the guide also mentioned that he had just come back San Francisco, where he was a part of a conference at Stanford on improving relations between the US and Russia.

Small world.

I'm headed home tomorrow, for a day, and then to Ethiopia.

More soon.

From Russia, With Love

I arrived in Moscow late last night.  It was a five-hour flight, with no change in time zones.  A real treat.

When I got to the gate at the Dubai airport, there were only two passengers, including me.  By the time we boarded the plane, there were almost 500.  With the flight crew, we were at 500.  A very full flight.

Side note - Many of the passengers had two or more bags from airport shopping, in addition to their carryon.  No problem.  No questions asked.  When I flew to Kenya, there were gate agents with a scale and a gizmo to measure the size of the bags. There was a very strict carryon policy that was definitely enforced.  Now, the upside of all this, is that Kenyan flight was the most efficient I've ever been on.  We were on and off that plane in no time, and our bags were waiting for us in baggage claim.

Not so here.

It took forever to get our bags, but once in hand, I headed toward the exit, where someone asked if I needed a cab.  After we figured out where I was going, I was told it would take about an hour to get there.

Although it was dark, the landscape remind me of the Coney Island, in New York. There were lots of high rise apartment buildings, and not much else.  Austere.

Thankfully, the trip took less than an hour, and I settled into my hotel room and quickly went to sleep.

At 10:00 this morning, I was off, headed into the city to begin my Big Bus Tour.  I love these because they give you a panoramic view of the city.  I'm not sure if this service is new to this city or what, but not many people knew anything about it or where the hop on and off stops were located.

In the mean time, I asked to be dropped off at Red Square where I knew there was a bus stop somewhere near.  It was here that I feasted on the majesty of the area. The buildings are regal and "happy."  There is no other word to describe St. Basil's Cathedral.  Pictures just don't do it justice.  It is truly spectacular!

When I left Al Ain yesterday, it was 99 degrees.  It was 37 here today.  A bitter, damp, cold 37 degrees.  Gumbo weather, for sure.

Below are trees made of locks.  Super, super cool.  They lined a canal running through the city.

As always, thanks for taking this journey with me.

From Russia, with love.

Ambassadors

When Ben and Frankie were little guys, I used to remind them that no matter where they were, or what they were doing, someone was watching them.  As such, they needed to be mindful to be on their best behavior.

I used to also say, "You are ambassadors.  You represent me.  You represent your school.  You represent your city (mostly stated when they played away games). You represent black folks.  Like it or not, you are the 'stand in' for young black males everywhere.  A heavy burden?  Maybe.  Not so much though, if you're doing the right thing anyway."

So given that broad definition that we can apply to anyone, we're all ambassadors, aren't we?

That's especially true here, where we have people from all over the world.

We represent our countries, our states, our schools, our families, and our religions, etc.

The reason I chose to visit Egypt first, was because of the wonderful guys I met who were Egyptian.  I wanted more of what they had to offer.  And thankfully, the trip didn't disappoint.  I met fabulous folks on this journey.

They were my Egyptian ambassadors.

Likewise, I've all but replaced another country on my list because of they way the folks act that I've come in contact with.  I can't imagine dealing with a whole country of people like this.

Is it fair to judge on this scale?

No, of course not.

But we do it everyday.

I've been reminded a lot recently, of the times when I was married, and Frank would stop strangers on the street, telling them about God.  I was never comfortable with this "witnessing."

I'd much rather let my actions speak for me.  If I'm doing the right thing, living in peace, helping others, then I felt (and still feel) that my actions speak louder than anything I could say to convince someone to follow me.

Likewise, I view other religions through their followers.  Are these folks I want to emulate?  Are they treating people they way I want to be treated?  Do I want to "buy" what they're selling?

Ambassadors.

All of us.

How are we representing our world?

Until next time.

Cheers.

Having Fun?

Watch the kid's expressions.  They're priceless.  I wish I knew what the man (his father?) is saying.

Nature or nurture?

Whatever it is, this kid has talent galore.

Enjoy!

http://www.wimp.com/pianokid/

The Jetson's

This car is giving Luther a run for his money.

The Google Boys have done it again.

http://biertijd.com/mediaplayer/?itemid=39089

Families

There's this great Microsoft commercial that features two brothers, a year or two apart, and it shows the fun and sibling rivalry as they grow up through the years. It ends with them still competing as grown men.

It reminded me of the men in my world.

In many ways, your siblings know you best.  They have been with you from the beginning.  There is the exception, of course.  It doesn't hold true when there are many years that separate you.  But, for the most part, if you grow up together, it does.

What, or who, makes a family?

Brothers, sisters, moms and dads?  Extended relatives?

The people you meet in life, that you connect with on a deeper level, can't they be considered family, too?

What makes some folks better at being families than others?

Forrest and I were chatting about the recent death of a dear friend of his.  And we marveled at what a wonderful man he was, but we also noted that his whole family were just "good people."  People who made you a better person by knowing them.

Why are some people better at being families than others?  What did this family do that made such an extraordinary difference in how they all turned out?

If, we as families, basically all start off the same, why don't we end up in the same place?

Why are some families so dysfunctional you wonder how they made it all at?  And others, like this family friend's, made it look easy and are models for us all?

Here's to families everywhere, trying to figure this out, and doing the best we can.

Powerful Letter

This was written by an Iraqi War veteran, to Mr. Bush and Mr. Cheney.  It is as touching as it is damning.

http://www.truthdig.com/dig/item/the_last_letter_20130318/

Petty People in Charge

Petty people + power = where stupidity reigns supreme.

http://dish.andrewsullivan.com/2013/03/19/the-journey-home/

Spock's Message

Although this was written in 1968, the message is apropos for today.  "Spock" responds to an interracial kid on fitting in.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/13/spock-teenage-outcast_n_2863113.html

Makeup & Stilettos

When you see women with makeup on, it's usually layer upon layer of it.  Like they're made up for the stage, or like Forrest says, that "embalmed" look.

Side note - I can't remember if I've written about the use of makeup here, and of course, I'm too lazy to go back and check.  So, if this is a repeat, please forgive me.

I'm still surprised when I see a woman all dolled up.  Especially since, on the one hand, they go to great lengths to cover up so they won't be seen, but then many wear makeup that makes you take a second look and go  . . . hmmmm.

Every mall has at least a half dozen stores that sell makeup exclusively, and they do brisk business.

Shoes, namely stilettos, are popular with the locals, too.

I was reminded of this when I noticed someone at work with heavy makeup and shoes with six-inch heels.  Of course, I was then curious to know what she had on under her abaya.  Designer clothes, too?

I think most women dress up to be seen or noticed by guys, but since dating in the true sense doesn't happen here, what's the point?  Are they dressing to be noticed by other women, maybe?

The malls are also filled with stores selling formal wear.  Some of it pretty risqué. These are worn to weddings, where only women are in attendance, until late in the evening when the groom shows up.

They start this practice young.  When we have special programs, our girls as young as first grade, wear formal floor-length dresses with full makeup.  Reminds me of "Toddlers & Tiaras."

So, when it comes to makeup and shoes, our worlds are not that different.

Emma

Thirty seconds of fun, thanks to a French-made commercial.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=RRDSj62tlvQ

A Sigh of Relief

My Mom used to say, "Tell me who you follow, and I'll tell you who you are."  I didn't really get this one until I had Ben and Frankie, and even then, it didn't gel until they were off to college.

It all came together for me when I met their friends.  It was only then that I could breathe a sigh of relief, and rest in the knowledge that they had chosen their friends wisely.

A deliberate act or a fluke?

No matter.

As parents we stumble along, praying that we get things right.  Sometimes we do. Sometimes we don't.

Should we earn an "A" for effort?

Maybe.

Probably . . . because . . .

Parenthood is no joke.

As wonderful as it is, I think it's the hardest job we'll ever have.

Somehow, if you're lucky/fortunate/blessed, once your kids grow up, you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

That's when the real fun begins.

She's My Hero!

Watch this granny dance and listen close as she gets in the car.  I love her!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/06/dancing-nana-grandma-dances-video_n_2823349.html

Questions?

If you know someone who is cheating in a relationship, do you expose them, or let the certainty of karma take it's course?

When the dirt is all out there for everyone to see, do you continue to embrace that person, or kick them to the curb for their indiscretions?

What if this person is family?

What if the aggrieved is family?

Do you shop around for a hit man?

Or do you do the humane thing and forgive?

Is there any indiscretion that we should deem unforgivable?

Do kids from broken homes make better mates because they want to be better than the disfunction they witnessed and were inescapably a part of?

Or, do they make the same mistakes because they were never taught how to create, or be a part of, a caring, positive environment?

Finally, why do people screw around in the first place?

Is it just because they can?

Or, is it because they think something is missing, and so they look for greener pastures?

How much of their inner conflict is based not on what their mate is or isn't doing, but on their own shortcomings that they have refused to deal with?

I know you're thinking . . . I missed my calling.

I should have been a shrink.

You can stop rolling your eyes now.

Think about it though.

They're master at asking questions (although I'm not claiming to be).  As part of their training, do they have a mandatory class on questioning strategies to get people to give up and share their deep dark secrets?  Does this trait help them in their own relationships?  Or is it an annoying tick their mate has to deal with?

OK.

Maybe psychiatry/psychology is not my thing, but it sure is interesting looking from the outside in.

What are some of your questions?

Last Words

The link below from Salon features famous last words.  Interesting.

http://www.salon.com/2013/03/07/famous_and_infamous_last_words/

Classic Quotes

Hat tip to Roz for sharing this.  It's the closing remarks of an email.  I've cherry picked the best to share with you.

TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE EVER BEEN,

YET THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER BE.

SO - ENJOY THIS DAY WHILE IT LASTS.

 

~Your kids are becoming you......but your grandchildren are perfect!

 

~Going out is good.. Coming home is better!

 

~The things you used to care to do, you no longer care to do, but you really do care that you don't care to do them anymore.

 

~You sleep better on a lounge chair with theTV blaring than in bed. It's called "pre-sleep".

 

~You miss the days when everything worked with just an "ON" and "OFF" switch..

 

~You tend to use more 4 letter words ... "what?"..."when?"... ???

 

~What used to be freckles are now liver spots.

 

~You have 3 sizes of clothes in your closet.... 2 of which you will never wear again.

 

 

~~~But Old is good in some things: Old Songs, Old movies, and best of all, OLD FRIENDS!!

 

Stay well, "OLD FRIEND!"

 

 

The Corniche

The Corniche is a beautifully designed stretch of beach that I pass every time I drive to Abu Dhabi.  Below is a link with pictures of it.  Take the time to read the captions. They speak volumes to the way of life here.

http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/tourism/in-pictures-abu-dhabi-corniche#1

Chris Tucker and the Russian Embassy

Last Thursday I trekked to Abu Dhabi to see the comedian, Chris Tucker.  What a treat that was!  Surprisingly, there were lots of local men and women.  I kept thinking, do they know this guy?  Do they know that he can be risqué?  And if, or rather, when he is, is that going to be a problem?

Nope.  Not at all.

They were lapping it up.  It helps that Chris comes off as the cool kid that everyone wants to hang with.  Some of his best material were the local jokes.  Again, the crowd loved him.

Now to the Russian Embassy.

I'm headed to Moscow for Spring Break, and so is one of my teachers and her family. She asked if I've gotten my visa.  Of course, I hadn't thought about it because in most places you can pick them up at the airport when you land.

Anyway, thank God for this lady.  In order to visit Russia, you have to go online and get an "invitation" to visit the country, and complete a lengthy application.  Without her help, I would have been up a creek.  She also shared the GPS coordinates, which was critical to finding the place.

Interestingly, it is not anywhere near Embassy Row, where most are located.  It is housed in a large, old nondescript building surrounded by storefronts.  The only clue that you've found the place are the guards posted at every corner.  They were kinda cute.  Very laid back.  Teddy bearish.

Inside, the place was manned by Russians, unlike the American Embassy, which didn't have an American in sight.

There were Russian speaking folks there for visas, too.  Not sure why they needed them.

Here's is how it works.

You present your paperwork to a clerk, who checks it, and when its all good, she takes your passport and gives you a bill for the services.

Here's the wild part.

They don't handle any money directly.  You have to go to their bank where they have an account, deposit the money, bring back the receipt, wait for a while for them to complete everything, and then you're done.  My friend suggested I park Luther and take a cab to the bank and back.  Again, this was great advice.  It took a total of two hours, although with all of the running around, it seemed a lot longer. The only branch of the bank open after hours is in Abu Dhabi Mall.  What a madhouse that was!

Anyway, thankfully, with the visa in hand, I'm ready to go.  Come April 2nd, I'll be on my way.  The following week I'm headed to Ethiopia.  You can be sure I'm checking their visa requirements as soon as I post this.

Things have been crazy busy at work, so the break will be a welcome reprieve.

Hope that all is well in your world.

More soon.

Cheers.

Good Doggy!

This was forwarded to me from Roz.  Huge thanks to her for sharing this clip of this amazingly helpful pooch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=P9Fyey4D5hg

Jailed

A woman in Abu Dhabi was jailed for handing out bibles.  Probably not the smartest thing to do in a Muslim country.

http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/courts/abu-dhabi-woman-accused-of-proselytising?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Daily%2BNewsletter%2B28-02-2013

Chastity Explained

A very interesting and surprising article on a recent study by researchers at CUNY about religious affiliation and pre-martial sex.  It was found on "The Dish."

http://dish.andrewsullivan.com/2013/02/24/which-religions-are-the-most-chaste/

Global Warming?

Hat tip to Forrest for sharing this video.  It's four minutes.  Stay with it to understand the enormity of what we're witnessing.

http://www.youtube.com/embed/hC3VTgIPoGU?rel=0

Presentation is Everything

We had another celebration at school today, and with it came a parade of many cakes.  Beautiful, layered, decorative, and inviting . . .

. . . until it was time to eat them.

I should mention that utensils are not used to cut the cakes, so after the first fist digs in, your appetite for the cake diminishes completely.

The kids are darling, though.  They want to share with everyone, especially the adults in the building, so many of them came by my office with boxes of the remnants of the beautiful cakes that were.

Thankfully, I brought some veggies to munch on and I could show the kids I was dieting, when they insisted that I partake of their goodies.

This whole scene is reminiscent of the traditional meals we've had, where these huge woks are filled to overflowing with food, and everyone digs in.  Most of the time there will be a serving spoon, but if there isn't one, you just scoop things up with the flat bread that is served with every meal.

These experiences have taught me that presentation is everything, and even chocolate is a turn off once it becomes finger/fist food.

Long Day

Have you ever had one of those mind-numbing meetings where two hours felt like twenty . . .

. . . in labor?

How is it that we folks who are teachers, who stand in front of people everyday, can be so out-of-touch with our audience?

Do we not see their glassy eyes?  Or do we just choose to ignore them and plow on?

Is it not obvious when some of us (OK, me) get five cups of coffee, four more than usual, just to stay awake?

And the restroom runs?

I lost count.

It was a painfully long day.

Here's hoping that yours is not.

My Toilet Fascination

Yes.

My toilet fascination is a bit strange.

OK.

It's really strange.

But in the spirit of discovering something new . . . in toilets, check this out.

http://www.nytimes.com/video/2011/10/12/technology/personaltech/100000001071311/the-toilet-of-tomorrow.html?VI-D-E-OB-AD-TXT-NA-ROS-0912-NA

GPA vs. FTA

Anybody else wonder if this kid's GPA (grade point average) is as prodigious as his FTA (free throws attempted)?

http://www.nytimes.com/video/2013/02/16/sports/100000002069966/big-talent-tiny-point-guard.html?emc=eta1

Addresses Are Coming!

This was the headline news in today's paper.  All the Western ex-pats are rejoicing!

http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/every-home-in-abu-dhabi-to-have-its-own-address?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Daily%2BNewsletter%2B17-02-2013

Tattoos, Phones and Cameras

I think tattoos are silly.

I know.

No one cares what I think, but I wanted it on record.

I'm not a fan.

Interestingly, I've yet to see tattoos on anyone in my travels.  Although, to be fair, I can't say I was looking for them per se.  I'm guessing they're more prevalent in Europe.

I understand many tattoos are meaningful and touching.  The thing is, many of what was meaningful in my 20's, seems down right stupid in my 50's.  If I would have indulged then, I'd be spending a mint to get them removed now.

But that's me.

Old school through and through.

Now to mobile phones -

As I've shared before, this area is keeping Blackberry phones alive.  There appears to be more Blackberry mobiles than iPhones, by a long shot.  And, if not Blackberry, some other android platform phones have flooded the market.

Whatever the phone, they all seem to have cameras and they are used profusely. Interestingly, local women usually cover up when we pull out our cameras, but they take pictures of each other at will.  In fact, everything that is done, is captured by picture.  It serves as proof that it happened.

Speaking of old school -

For those of you old enough to remember Walter Cronkite, he used to sign off his newscast like this:

"And that's the way it is."

I would add, "in the UAE."

More soon.

Inshallah.

All Kinds of Love

The following story was emailed to me from my dear friend Ann.  Huge thanks to her for sharing this incredible story.  I think it's fitting for this day we set aside for love.

Happy Valentine's Day!

SOMETHING IN THE UNIVERSE THAT IS MUCH GREATER AND DEEPER THAN HUMAN INTELLIGENCE.

THE ELEPHANT'S JOURNEY TO PAY RESPECT, BUT HOW DID THEY KNOW?

Lawrence Anthony, a legend in South Africa and author of 3 books including the bestseller The Elephant Whisperer, bravelyrescued wildlife and rehabilitated elephants all over the globe from human atrocities, including the courageous rescue of Baghdad Zoo animals during U.S. invasion in 2003.

.

On March 7, 2012 Lawrence Anthony died.

He is remembered and missed by his wife, 2 sons, 2 grandsons and numerous elephants.

Two days after his passing, the wild elephants showed up at his home led by two large matriarchs.

Separate wild herds arrived in droves to say goodbye to their beloved man-friend.

A total of 31 elephants had patiently walked over 12 miles to get to his South African House.

Witnessing this spectacle, humans were obviously in awe not only because of the supreme intelligence and precise timing that these elephants sensed about Lawrence's passing, but also because of the profound memory and emotion the beloved animals evoked in such an organized way:

Walking slowly - for days - Making their way in a solemn one-by-one queue from their habitat to his house.

So, how after Anthony’s death, did the reserve’s elephants — grazing miles away in distant parts of the park — know?

“A good man died suddenly,” says Rabbi Leila Gal Berner, Ph.D., “and from miles and miles away, two herds of elephants,sensing that they had lost a beloved human friend, moved in a solemn, almost ‘funereal’ procession to make a call on the bereaved family at the deceased man’s home.” “If there ever were a time, when we can truly sense the wondrous ‘interconnectedness of all beings,’ it is when we reflect on the elephants of Thula Thula.

A man’s heart’s stops, and hundreds of elephants’ hearts are grieving.

This man’s oh-so-abundantly loving heart offered healing to these elephants, and now, they came to pay loving homage to their friend.”

Lawrence's wife, Francoise, was especially touched, knowing that the elephants had not been to his house prior to that day for well over 3 years!

But yet they knew where they were going.

The elephants obviously wanted to pay their deep respects, honoring their friend who'd saved their lives - so much respect thatthey stayed for 2 days 2 nights without eating anything.

Then one morning, they left, making their long journey back.

Teen Jeopardy

I'm not a fan of game shows, but this Teen Jeopardy video clip is a keeper.

Enjoy!

http://www.salon.com/2013/02/13/best_final_jeopardy_answer_ever/

Science & Random Thoughts

I'm tickled every time I visit one of the book stores because - front and center - are ready made science projects.  The student simply has to choose which experiment he/she is going to purchase.

Learning is optional.

If it can be purchased here, it is.

Random thoughts:

---There is a field just outside of Dubai that is dedicated to rugby.  It's called "The Sevens."

---The national airlines for Abu Dhabi is Ethiad.  The one for Dubai is Emirates.

---The president of the UAE has his own airport.  It is in Abu Dhabi, near the commercial airfield.

HQ Building in Abu Dhabi.  It looks like a giant frisbee.
I noticed it last week for the first time.  Hard to miss, though.

---As I've mentioned before, the roads and highways here are great.  Whoever planned this was a forward thinker.  The roadways are wide, at least six lanes across.  All signs are in Arabic and English.  Thank God!

---The mountain, Jabel Hafeet, located in Al Ain, can be seen 15 miles out because the road that runs through it is lit up like a Christmas Tree.  It's a majestic view.

---I just cooked a store bought personal pan pizza for dinner. The challenge is, I'm never sure of the temperature setting of the oven.  There are no numbers on the knob, so it's anybody's guess.  I knew the pizza was done when I smelled it burning.

I've learned to appreciate a home cooked meal.  Even a burnt one.

Here's hoping you have a terrific day.

Riveting Post

Not mine, the one linked below of the atrocities of rapist/priests of the Catholic Church.  It is fitting, given word of the pending resignation of Pope.

http://dish.andrewsullivan.com/2013/02/04/nostra-maxima-culpa/

Language Acquisition

An intriguing TED Talk on language.

True confession . . . I'm not sure I understood much of it, but it was fascinating nonetheless.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/deb-roy/the-birth-of-a-word_b_2639625.html

Bald Heads, Labor Camps & Immigrants

It is rare to see a guy with a bald head.  In fact, seeing one today reminded me of just how rare it is.

Maybe it's because most of the guys I see working are young, 20-30 years old.  But the older guys tend to have heads full of hair, too.

Maybe it's their nationality.  Most of the ex-pat men are from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, etc. . . . our darker Asian brothers.

Maybe it's because their heads were shave as infants, which is a custom of many of these countries, including here.  The results are folks with really full, thick hair.

Of course, my observations do not include the Emiratis, as their heads, for both men and women, are covered with scarves, so we never see their hair.  Every now and then, if a guy has long hair, it peeks out.  And a few of the women will have bangs, and you can see those, but it's rare.  The ladies' faces are usually covered from just above their eyebrows, to just below their mouths.  Some Arab/Muslim women wear a tight head wrap, with another scarf on top of that, usually a different color. These are pinned down and stay put.  Most of the women just wrap a scarf around their head, but it slips, so they re-wrap it throughout the day.  Personally, having to deal with that, would be annoying to me.

Side note - Most of the ex-pat men live in labor camps.  They are located throughout the city.  They are cramped quarters, with many sharing the living space.  They are transported to work via large white school buses.

Side note 2 - There was a local deadly accident with one of the buses a couple of days ago.  A large truck, heavy with building materials, hit a bus, trapping many of the men, resulting in 24 deaths.  This was the worst traffic accident in UAE history. The men were all ex-pats, 16 from Bangladesh.

Many sacrifices are made, by people all over the world, in search of a better life.

Isn't that how the US came to be?

We, a land of immigrants, have now decided we don't want any more?  How do we slam the door that others held wide open for us?

We're better than this.

Here's hoping the pending legislation will reflect that welcoming spirit to all who land on our shores, wherever they come from.

He Thinks!

Great response by Kareem Abdul Jabbar to an article he wrote about the HBO show, "Girls."  This is from the Huffington Post "Black Voices."

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kareem-abduljabbar/kareem-abdul-jabbar-girls-review_b_2615824.html?utm_hp_ref=black-voices&ir=Black%20Voices

Lest We Forget

From the Huffington Post, "Black Voices."

1968 Olympics - Tommy Smith & John Carlos

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/02/black-history-month-photo_n_2606091.html#slide=2055901

Gumbo

Today I made a gumbo that turned out great.  That's no easy feat for me.  Even with the roux mix, which simplifies the process considerably, I still have managed to mess it up.

But not today.

Today, this one is perfect.

It has lots of green onions, dried shrimp, which really enhances the flavor, and lots of skinless, boneless chicken.

For those of you who might be unfamiliar with gumbo, it's a cross between soup and stew.  It has the consistency of a broth, with the variety of ingredients like a stew. The roux is the key to a successful gumbo.  It is typically made by browning flour and oil together until it turns a deep brown.  This process requires constant stirring, because it can and does burn very quickly if unattended.  Then you fill the pot up with water.  I added green onions, dried shrimp (usually found in Asian markets), and chicken.  You can also add fresh shrimp, sausages, okra, and anything else that suits your fancy.  You bring all of this to a boil, then let it simmer for a couple of hours or until the meat is "falling apart" tender.

Voila!

That's it!

Grab a bowl of rice, and pour the gumbo over it.

Yummy!

It's especially nice when it's cold outside, but in Southeast Texas (where I'm from) and Southern Louisiana, it's served all year long, even in the hot, humid summers.

I looked online for a recipe to share, but most of them included things I don't use, like white or yellow onions (I use green onions or scallions), garlic (Never!  I can't stand the smell of it), celery, and tomatoes (nope and nope).

But this is what makes this dish unique.  It's easy to make it yours by adding or deleting ingredients.

Experiment.  Have fun with it.

But do try it.  It's worth the effort.

Bon appétit!

Kenya, the New Silicon Valley?

This article, about the advances in mobile phone technology in Kenya, caught my eye.  It's from The Daily Beast.

http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2013/01/28/africa-s-mobile-tech-boom.html

You?

Tonight I started to write about how tired I am, but that was just making me feel even more tired.

So, instead, tell me . . .

How are you?

What's happening in your world?

As always, thanks for taking this journey with me.

Your blogging buddy.

Hodge Podge

Random thoughts are filling me head.

Nothing new, right?

Our week of winter is over.  We're back to the mid-80's.

A crazy day at work, always leads me to a map, to decide on my next trip.  Today was one of those days.  I did lots of searching, but no plans yet for spring break. Initially, I intended to go back to the US to meet my newest grand baby, but June looks like a better time for everyone.

Speaking of grand babies, I love that I get to enjoy having girls through my boys. What a treat!  Being a grandma is the best!  I'm even OK with Frankie vetoing my choice of the name for myself . . . G-Faye.  He said it sounded like a porn name, so Grandma Faye it is.

It's a title I proudly wear.

Brrrrrrr!

It's cold.

I'm bundled up in two robes, fuzzy socks, and I have a space heater on.

OK.  It's only in the 50's, which really is not that cold, but my apartment is made out of some material that retains the cold.  In fact, at most times, it's colder in my apartment than it is outside.

So, compared to the frigid air in New York, we're basking in the sun, but . . . really, to us, here and now . . . it's cold.

This weather is similar to what it was last year when I arrived.  I thought it was wonderful.  What a difference a year makes.

Here's to a heat wave coming our way.

Note the date.

Remind me that I said this when the temperature is 120+.

Second Acts

This article is from the Huffington Post and "That Girl," Marlo Thomas, about folks who got a late start in realizing their dreams.

Inspiring.

Enjoy.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marlo-thomas/creative-outlets-second-acts_b_2542942.html

College Bound

This article is from Edutopia and it provides tips for college bound kids of color, who will be attending predominantly white schools.  Please pass this on.  It's good stuff.

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/predominantly-white-campus-danielle-moss-lee?utm_source=SilverpopMailing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=012313%20enews%203rd%20active%20openers&utm_content=&spMailingID=5485995&spUserID=MjcyNjkzMTM4NzcS1&spJobID=63912529&spReportId=NjM5MTI1MjkS1

Snotty

True confession.

Today I was snotty to someone . . .

A cashier with a dumb request.

I know she didn't make the rule, but she was enforcing it.

Still, when it was my turn, I could have been gracious and kind to her, but instead I chose to be snotty.

Yes, I was tired, and not feeling great, but . . .

that is no excuse for my behavior.

I cringe when I see how many of the locals treat folks, but today I wasn't any better.

Shame on me.

Later, when I got home, I realized I had walked out of the school building without my computer, so I had to take the hourlong roundtrip back to get it.

Coincidence . . .

or was it a case of reaping some of those negative vibes I'd sown?

Life is about choices.

Here's hoping I'll have sense enough to make the right ones in the future.

Four Years Ago

Four years ago today, a group of us were in Washington, DC to witness the inauguration of President Obama.

What a spectacular time that was!

Not one of us gathered thought we'd live to see a black president, so this was monumental beyond measure.

What was also extraordinary were the masses of people, and in those masses were large numbers of old black folks . . . many moving slow and some being pushed in wheelchairs.  But with that, you could see steely determination in their eyes, as they willed their bodies to cooperate, to be a part of this history making day.

Honestly, as we witnessed the grueling campaign, many of us were concerned about the safety of Candidate Obama and his family.  For those of us who lived through the assassinations of the 60's, this was a real concern.

How thrilled we were that he won, and that we were there, in the flesh, bearing witness to history.

The day was frigid.  It was absolutely the coldest day I've ever experienced.  The wind was howling, but we were too excited to consider shelter and the warmth we'd find therein.  We had come this far, and we were determined to see it through.

The day did not disappoint.

It was phenomenal, in every way.

Being a part of the millions gathered, moving in waves to find that perfect spot, was incredible.

Although we were far away, our eyes were transfixed on the screens, and our responses to the words spoken, moved through the crowds like ripples of water.

What a day!

Now, on this day, it happens again.

To all the people there, recognize what an honor and privilege it is, and bask in the glory of it all.

To those not there in the flesh.  That's OK, too.  Recognize, no matter where you are, that this truly is a special day.

The fact that this second inauguration is happening on Martin Luther King's Day, is the icing on the cake.

Here's wishing President Obama, his family, and we the citizens of this great land, a wonderful four more years.

Lies and Seduction

First the lies.

I encountered someone today who is a master liar.

A Lance Liar.

The lies just rolled off their tongue like fast moving water rushing over waterfalls. Half truths and innuendoes were used masterfully.  It was clear, the lying was a skill that had been honed from years of practice and use.

It was frustrating to deal with, but at times, it was entertaining to watch, wondering what kind of lies would be tumbling out of their mouth next.

How do you deal with the Lance Liar?

Now the seduction.

Months ago, during one of my trips, I had an intriguing conversation with a Muslim fellow about the traditional dress for women, and how it was more conservative in my world.  That led us to the burka, the cloth that overs the face, with just the eyes exposed.  My new friend said it would be better if the women's faces were completely covered because the eyes peeking out from a burka were extremely seductive.

Now, is it seductive because that's all the Muslim guys have to work with, as everything else on the woman is covered?

Would men from other cultures agree with this?

After chatting with him, it got me to thinking . . .

White guys are usually boob guys because that seems to be the area that many white girls have been blessed in.

Black guys, on the other hand, tend to be booty guys because most of us have been endowed with that gift.

Our Asian brothers seem to be OK with neither the boobs nor the booties, as their women tend to lack both.

You think maybe I missed my calling?

I should have been an anthropologist?

I know, by now you're shaking your head thinking, I have way too much time on my hands.

Maybe so, but I think I'm on to something.

What do you think?

Worth the Read

This is a lovely story from the Washington Post.  It's long, but well worth the read.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/earl-smith-is-the-man-behind-a-military-patch-that-president-obama-prizes/2013/01/18/deec2444-5c13-11e2-beee-6e38f5215402_story.html

Another Good Movie

I was glad to see the beginning of the weekend, and raced from school to treat myself to a movie.  The one I was anxiously awaiting was "Django Unchained" which opened today.

For those of you who might not be movie buffs, it's the new Quentin Tarantino one starring Jamie Foxx and Christopher Waltz, with Jamie playing a freed slave turned bounty hunter.

Of course, there has been controversy.

Anytime Tarantino makes a movie, you can be sure there will be those who object to something in it.  This one is no different.

The biggest issue is the language used.  It didn't bother me a bit.  Maybe I'm anesthetized to the use of certain language, or maybe it's because it didn't seem out of place in the context here.

Anyway, I left the movie cheering.

Yes, cheering.

OK.  Maybe not out loud, but inside I was hoopin' and hollerin'.

Why, you ask?

Because this is the first movie I've seen, or have heard about, that tackles the brutality of slavery.  It's the first movie that didn't try to justify it or minimize it.  The terrorism that it was, was on full display.  And with it, a true, bonafide hero.

We have a black ex-slave bounty hunter to cheer on.

And it felt good rooting for this guy.

Was the brutality awful?  No doubt.  My eye were covered through most of it.

Was some of it over the top?  Absolutely.

Believable?  Maybe.

There has been much written about this movie, but one article caught my attention because it asked the question, "Could it have been made by a black director?"  I don't think so, for a couple of reasons.

First, it's really hard for the masses to hear someone black going on and on about slavery.  The thinking too often is, we should get over it.  This was a long time ago, and it's time to move on.

Secondly, it would have been difficult for a black director to find the funding to pull this off.  Why?  See reason number one.

So, the next best thing, was Tarantino, the honorary Negro, to do the bidding.  But it's interesting to note, that it wasn't a script conjured up by black folks, it was Tarantino himself who made that leap.  I hear he did the same kind of thing in re-imagining Hitler and his regime during World War II, in the writing and making of "Inglourious Bastards."  I didn't see that one.

I'm guessing this makeshift review and endorsement, humble though it is, might be a surprise to some.  Honestly, it even surprised me how much I liked this movie.

So, take it for what it's worth.

See the movie.

Or not.

I enjoyed it enough for both of us.

Back in the Groove

We've been in school only a week-and-a-half since the winter break, but it seems much longer.  I was in Abu Dhabi for an all-day meeting that was promoted as urgent.  It didn't come close to living up to that billing, but it was good to see folks I haven't seen since last year.  We used to have this meeting twice a month, but this is the first one this school year.

I've been crunching numbers and doing some data analysis for the last few hours, and my brain is fried.  I don't miss much about my old school district, but their student data base was light years ahead of what we're using here, so yes, I miss that.

I'm too tired to go on.

Good night to me.

Good morning to you.

Good Movie

I was reading an article in USA Today, entitled "You've Seen the Movie, Now Experience the Place," and discovered that I had already visited one of the places mentioned - Jaipur, India.  So, I decided to watch the movie, "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel."

The movie did what I couldn't.  It showed the sights in vivid color, and the cacophony of sounds in this lovely city.

One of the characters' husband dies after 40 years of marriage, and she does something she's never done, travel and live on her own.  She even writes a blog about her experiences.

Sound familiar?

It stars Judi Dench and Maggie Smith, in their wrinkled glory, and is well worth the look.

Embassy

After almost not being allowed to enter Kenya because my passport only had two vacant visa pages, and you need three, I made it a point to take care of this promptly.  I made an appointment and drove to the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi this afternoon.

As I was driving there, I envisioned special treatment, maybe even a red carpet (OK, that was probably wishful thinking) once I identified myself as a US citizen.

Well, my imagination was a lot richer than my experience.

Allow me to explain.

I had the GPS coordinates, so I found it with no trouble.  In fact, the area is home to many embassies.  The first one I saw was for Palestine.  This may be the only place in the world that recognizes it as a country.  Then there was the one for Turkey, and then the very next modern looking structure, which stood out from the rest, was the one for the US. 

Security was tight.  You had to have an appointment to enter the building.  There were security guards at both of the gates on the street.  They directed me to a parking lot across the street.  When I walked onto the premises, I was told to go to a nondescript door, where there was another guard.  We were only allowed in one person at a time, or one family at a time. Once in, all bags were screened.  I was allowed to take my wallet with me, but my purse had to be left at the counter, along with my phone, which had to be turned off.  

Then I went through another small waiting area, on my way to the building I needed to visit.  

Side note - I was wearing a necklace that I bought in Kenya from one the Masai Village women.  The female security guard in this waiting area, was from Kenya, and recognized that it was made by the Masai.  She asked if I was Kenyan. We had a nice, brief chat about my visit to her homeland.

When I left there, I walked down a path with bushes, at least six feet high, that were along both sides of the walkway, so you could only see in front of you and behind you.  When I arrived at the next door, I was buzzed in, given a number, and told to have a seat.

Special treatment.  

Not even.

Red carpet.

Only in my dreams.

This place . . . our place . . . our embassy - reminded me of the holding area for families visiting prisoners at Corcoran Prison, near Bakersville, CA, that I visited on occasion.

It was dreary. . . 

With rows and rows of hard chairs . . .

And even more security guards.

Absolutely nothing about this place was inviting.

There was good news though.

I was able to get 48 pages added to my passport while I waited.  It took about 45 minutes.  

Of course, I used that time to people watch.  I was intrigued by the number of Arab folks, including a fair number of Emiratis, who were there for visas.  I'm guessing they can't get the visas at the airport when they arrive in the US, as is the custom with many countries.

Anyway, I was a happy camper walking out of there with my hefty passport in hand.

I was hungry, so I decided to find the nearest mall, to get something to eat.  

Side note 2 - One of the coolest things about mall parking lots here is there are red and green lights above each parking space.  Red if it's occupied, green if it's available.  It makes searching for a spot much easier.

Side note 3 - When you have a traffic violation, you get an SMS on your phone with the nicest message.  It's something like, "You have committed a traffic violation in Abu Dhabi today.  Please kindly obey the traffic rules."  Well, I had gotten quite a few of these messages, but I didn't realize they were the same as tickets.  I discovered this when I went to renew my car registration this week.  The bill was crazy high. High enough to have paid for my next trip.  

So, needless to say, I was very conscious of my speed, going and coming.  Usually I'm more conscious going.  By the time I'm on my way back, I'm just tired and want to get home. Today, I played soft, soothing music, and paid attention to the needle.

Final point on this - the traffic cameras are hard to see.  They are located in the median, between the palm trees.  Usually I don't see them until I'm passing them, and it's too late to react, or more accurately, too late to slow down.

Anyway, that was my day today.

Hope that your's will be productive and ticket-free, too.

Proud Grandma

Milu's thinking, "This is the life."

Zadie asked, "What is it Daddy?"

Root Canal

Today after work I went to the dentist.  He took one look at my aching tooth, and declared I needed a root canal.  Having been through this procedure before, several times in fact, I knew the pain associated with the procedure would pale in comparison to what I was feeling when I walked in his office.

We didn't have insurance when I was growing up, so we only went to the health professionals as a last resort. And although that was not the issue once I was grown and married, that mindset of only going to the doctor after all of the home remedies had failed, was ingrained.  It's only now, that I realize how much of what I'm dealing with, particularly in the dental arena, could have been prevented with proper care.

My new mantra is . . . an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

So, let me encourage you -

Stop reading.

Make the call . . . to the doctor, dentist, optometrist, therapist . . . whoever you need to see, to take care of yourself.

Remember, this encouragement is not just for you.  I need this message most of all.

Lydia

If she had lived, she would be 30 years old.

Our daughter, Lydia, was born on October 26, 1982.

Frank was still in the Navy and we had orders to the Philippines.

In my fifth month of pregnancy, during a routine ultrasound, it was discovered through the amount of amnionic fluid that was being produced, that there was a problem with her kidneys.  The Navy knew they didn't have the medical services needed for a high risk pregnancy and birth in the Philippines, so Frank's orders were delayed and we stayed in Maryland through her birth.

I had a c-section with Ben, so we knew I would have another with this baby.  It was scheduled and Lydia was delivered.  All of 6 lbs. 7 oz, born a month premature.

It was then discovered that she had six major medical issues, all of which could have potentially been corrected with surgery, expect one.  She was born with one kidney, and that one was malfunctioning.

Ben was a year old, staying with my mom back at our apartment.  She was so good with him.  At 13 months old, she taught him how to salute and say "sister."

We were hospitalized two hours away at Bethesda Naval Medical Hospital, where I was on the ward, and Lydia was in the neonatal intensive care unit.

The most critical babies were kept nearest the front door, which is where her crib was.  I was discharged after a week, and when I went back to the hospital to see her, she was not up front where she had been.  I panicked, until I was directed to her, as she had been moved to the back of the room.

As much as we prayed and cried and wished for her recovery, it was clear when she was about ten days old, that she would not make it.  I should say, it is clear now, but then, even as she lost weight with each passing day, we were still hopeful that she would pull through.

On day 14, on my way back home after being with her all day, my mom got the call that she had passed away.  I was heartbroken, but I was grateful that the last time I saw her, she was alive.

We had a funeral service.  It was a blur.

Family and friends tried to soothe me by pretending that nothing happened, when all I wanted to do was scream that she had lived, and to remember her, and talk about her.

People deal with death differently.  I know now folks were doing what they thought was best.

After a couple of months, her headstone was placed on her burial plot.  We went to see it.  Without a doubt, it was one of the hardest days of my life.  Even harder than the funeral.  Somehow that headstone, with her name, her birthdate and the day she died, made it all too final.

No mother should ever have to bury her child.

The doctors advised us to wait at least a year before attempting to get pregnant again, but I knew I needed to be pregnant right away, or I would have been too afraid later on.  And so, less than a year later, Frankie was born.  Also premature, but otherwise healthy.

Thank God.

Remembrances

It was January 5, 1977 that I met my ex-husband.  Thirty-six years ago today.

Funny the random things you remember.

January 2nd is the birthday of a classmate that I haven't seen in almost 40 years. Yet every year, I remember her birthday.

Why do these random things stick in our heads, when other more pertinent stuff, is not nearly as easy to recall?

Who knows?

Of course, anytime I think about my ex-husband, I'm reminded of the need to forgive.  Everyday.  Every time my thoughts drift that way.

When you've gone through a difficult time, it's natural to want to draw a line in the sand and declare, I'm right, and you're wrong.  And that may be true.  Or maybe not. But holding on to the negative stuff only hurts you/me.  I speak from much experience.

So, as I've encouraged you/me many times before in this venue, let me say it again . . . let it go.  Whatever "it" is.  It's not worth being stuck in the land of negativity, watching the world pass you/me by.

Forgive 'em.  No matter what.

No matter how ugly, how mean, how rude, how insensitive, how nasty, how thoughtless or how petty they are, or have been . . .

Forgive 'em.

Then watch you life morph into more than you could have imagined.

Remember . . . it's a choice.

Choose to let go and LIVE!

OK.

End of sermon.

Amen.

More Kenya Videos

Note Mount kilimanjaro in the background

Our treat for the day . . .

Seeing these marvelous animals up close

Kenya Videos

It has taken me a minute to work around the video upload issues.  Please let me know if you have any problems viewing these.  Thanks!

Masai Village Welcome

Masai warriors making fire

Women . . . and the Pain We Endure for Beauty

As seen in the Huffington Post.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lisa-k-friedman/aging-gracefully-after-50-brazilian-wax_b_2375373.html