New Car!

Again I woke up before 4:00am!  What is that about?

I've been trying to figure out how to mail merge to create labels, so I got up to work on that.  No luck with the merge, but I ended up just typing them one by one.  Of course, if I'd started when I first woke up, instead of trying to figure out the mail merge thing, I would have finished them.  Oh well.

I continued to meet individually with the Western teachers today.  Boy, did I get an earful.  I ask three questions in these meetings - what's working, what's not working, and how can I help.  It's amazing to me how petty some of the issues are.  It reminds me of one of my schools where the kinder teachers were constantly bickering.  It was at that point that I came to the conclusion that too often some teachers act the kids of the grade they teach.

Of course, I get it.  But I think they're making the problem much bigger than it actually is.  I'm hoping my presence and the implementation of some better communication tools will help to calm the waters.  This is when I really appreciate my 55 years on this planet.  Few things rattle my cage at this point in my life.

Now to the great news -

The absolute highlight of my day was picking up my brand new 2012 Toyota Camry! It ended up being a much better deal to buy a car rather than to lease one, so that's what I did.  I've never been more grateful for a purchase.  Not just of the car, but everything else I've needed and wanted to buy since I've been here.

My rental.
Thank God,  I was able to get the new car today.
The same day I had to turn this car in.

Side note - Had a fascinating conversation with the car salesman about Islam.  He promised to share some resources with me.  I think if we took the time to share our thoughts and ideas with each other, we could put the weapons down and grow as a people.  Idealistic?  Maybe.  Helpful?  I think so.

Side note 2 - He and I had the time to have this great conversation because I inquired about getting the car windows tinted and they were able to do it while I waited.  It took a while, but I think it will be worth it as most cars here have tinted windows because of the fierce heat.

Side note 3 - It was dark when I got home, so I didn't take pictures of my car.  I can't wait for you to see it.  It smells like new shoes.

Don't worry.  I promise not to seque into the funky feet conversation.

Side note 4 - I wish I could share the sunrise I see over Mount Jebel Hafeet with you.  It is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful.

Here's hoping your sunrises are awesome, too.

UAE vs. US Schools

After four hours of sleep, I woke up just shy of 4:00 in the morning, ready to start another day.  I left home at 5:45 and was the first one at school at 6:20.  Yesterday, not early enough.  Today, too early.  I'm hoping for a happy medium soon.

Some interesting tidbits about UAE schools:

---There's no concept of substitutes.  If a teacher is absent, other teachers cover for them, if they want to.

---Emirati teachers have their jobs for life.  They can not be fired or disciplined.  You can request that they do something, but they can and do decline.

---Today there was a class of 5th grade girls who were without a teacher all morning.  Left completely unattended.  This happens more often than you think.  We would be fired on the spot if that happened in the US.

---If you ask a teacher to do something, it is not unusual for her to leave her class unattended while she takes care of whatever you asked her to do.

---Before ADEC took over the schools, teachers would often leave after two or three hours of teaching.  If they needed to shop or cook dinner, they were off, with no plans for the students left behind.

---There are no staff mailboxes.  They have them, but they don't use them.  No phones in the classrooms either.  When you need to reach a class, you get up and visit it.  There are more interruptions than we're used to because of this.

I spent most of the day talking to the Western teachers one-on-one.  I always enjoy these meetings because you get to visit in a relaxed setting, and although you're discussing school "stuff," it is usually a pleasant time for everyone involved.  These meetings are also very revealing.  From these I will be able to tell how I need to prioritize my work.

Other random thoughts:

---Speed bumps are not created equal.  Some are barely noticeable, while others have you galloping in the air.  They are striped, but not easy to see.  You're going over one before you realize it was even there.

---There is only one brand of gas stations in the country.  Is that why it's so cheap?  You'd think it would be more expensive because that company has a monopoly on the goods.  Not so.

---Potbellied men who wear the robes look pregnant.  You don't see it often but they stand out.  Their bellies and that "look."

---Found out today that in order to buy liquor legally, you are supposed to have a "liquor card" identifying you as a non-Muslim.  I'm told that's not adhered to here, but is in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

---Stopped on the side of the road this morning to take a picture of the lighted road that winds through the mountain.  It is a glorious sight to see.  Mine didn't turn out great, but I found this one online.

Mount Jebel Hafeet at night

---Tyrone (my wireless) router, has been a little sluggish today.  Not sure what's day about.

---A Toyota Van is called a "people mover" in its official description of the vehicle.

---My new favorite thing is instant coffee called 3-in-1.  It contains the coffee, flavored cream and sugar in each single serving packet.

Hope you're enjoying 2012.

More soon.

Quick & Dirty

It's already 8:45.  I've got to get to bed in a hurry.  I left this morning at 6:30 and it took 45 minutes to get there.  It's only fourteen miles, but for some reason, it takes a minute to cover those miles.  Note to self - leave earlier.

Arrived at school with bags in both hands.

Note to self - you need one hand free to hold the long dress so that you're not tripping over it going up the steps.

Put some things away, organized my space a bit before the start of the day, when I received a call on my cell phone, wondering where I am.

Protocol is for the admin staff to be in the lobby greeting the staff as they arrive.  Also found out I was supposed to be signing in.

Went to every classroom.

Had a two hour admin meeting.

Worked on items from the meeting.

Met with the Western teachers.  Set up one-on-one meetings with them beginning tomorrow.

Finished up and left to stop by the store for needed supplies.

Home an hour.

Off to Arabic class.  Love the teacher.  He's very good.  Class is ten weeks, twice a week.

Home again.

Writing to you.

Going to bed.

Forbidden is Good!

I cooked the ham yesterday.  I stepped out to throw something away and I realized you could smell the aroma even before you entered my place.  The sweet smell of the ham rubbed with brown sugar and topped with slices of pineapple permeated my home.

I should probably cook more.

The taste . . . was absolutely delicious!  Why is it that forbidden fruit always taste great?  What is that about?

I said I wasn't going to do any running around, but did anyway.

Symmetry is important to me.  Always has been.  The bulletin boards in my class and in my schools had to be just so.  Measured everything.

It bothered me that my television was off center.  Ridiculous, I know, but it was bugging me nonetheless.  Correcting this required a trip to the store to get a couple of longer cords.  Of course, once in the store, there were other things I "just had to have."  I'm happy to report everything is now perfectly aligned and all is right with the world.

A couple of black women and a young girl caught my attention at the mall yesterday.  When I arrived home, I was surprised to see that we live in the same building.  We introduced ourselves.  She is an ADEC teacher, here with her daughter.  The other woman was her mother visiting from Florida.  I mentioned that I went to college in Florida, and as it turned out, we went to the same school - Florida A & M University (FAMU) in Tallahassee.  What a small world!

Side note - FAMU is trying to recover from an awful situation.  One of the drum majors in our world renown band, the Marching 100, was killed as a result of a hazing incident.  Death by blunt force trauma.  It is absolutely horrifying that this kind of nonsense is still allowed.  The band director was fired, but more heads should roll because of this senseless death.

Now to more church news -

I'm still amazed at how familiar folks in the Ethiopian church look to me.  The guy playing piano has a striking remembrance to my Ben.  I didn't notice it last time because I saw him in profile.  Yesterday, he was facing forward.  The woman leading the choir could have been Iman's twin.  You know, Iman, the fashion model, married to David Bowie?

Interestingly, the other church I've attended in this same area, serves complimentary coffee or water that you can drink during service.  I was chilly the last time I was there.  Had a cup of coffee during the service and warmed right up.

Also, there's a little souq in the same building that has snacky stuff that I find useful after service.  I get something from there to tide me over til I get home.

It's about 4:00 in the afternoon as I write this.  I wanted to get it done early so that I can get to bed early tonight.  I'll probably need to leave here at 6:30 in the morning. No later than 6:45, for sure.  I should get there in about 30 minutes.  The boys' start time is 7:15.  The girls' is 7:45.  I saw only a handful of students before break, as it appears to be the tradition to ditch school during minimum days.  I'm looking forward to seeing what a 1000 little ones look like when everyone is there and the building is full.

Side note 2 - I discovered stores in the mall closest to me that I hadn't seen before. I'm a creature of habit.  I park in the same area, use the same entrance, etc. Today, however, my GPS dude (I named him Peter.  He speaks with a British accent) had me going a different route, and I ended up on the other end of the mall.  I decided to venture out and see new things, and I'm glad I did.  I found a shoe store that rivals Payless in their selection and prices.  It's much more conveniently located, too.

Side note 3 - Those of you who know me well, know that I have funky feet.  Yes.  I know.  Way to much information.  I share this not to gross you out, but to explain why I don't spend a lot on my shoes.  When they get funky, I throw them away.  I don't feel bad because I didn't spend a lot on them.  Dr. Oz's remedy of soaking your feet in tea works, but who has time to do that every day?  I've tried the powder, spray deodorant, etc., to no avail.  The culprit is sweaty feet.  What I find fascinating is that none of my guys have this issue - not my brothers or my sons. Just me.

OK.  Enough about my feet.

I promised not to post unless I had something to say.  Writing about my feet may qualify as stretching that a wee bit too far.  Duly note.  No more feet talk.

Side note 4 - I hope you're not reading this over breakfast.

More next time.

Your blogging buddy

Video Success & Travel Theme

Arc de Triomphe - Paris, France
(Dining Room)

I've been struggling with getting the video to work in Gmail Chat.  After trouble-shooting all of the possible fixes, I went to an Apple  forum and with the suggestion of a click of a button, got my camera working. YEAH!!!  I'm also good to go with Skype.  I know this may not seem like much, but with being so far away, these tools are priceless.  I called Forrest (my brother) three times - just cause.

It was late last night when I remembered to search online for different churches.  As such, I wasn't able to call ahead and none of the ones I was considering had location information.  So, I went back to the Ethiopian Church.  I really love their worship and wished that I understood the message.

I've only been back to church very recently, probably less than a year, after having stopped going completely in 1995.  I believe there's a church for me here, I just have to keep looking til I find it.

One of two pictures that do not follow the travel theme
(Dining Room)

Interestingly, two of my colleagues both attend church and they're looking to build relationships with the folks there.  That is not my mission at all.

Leaning tower of Pisa - Pisa, Italy
(Dining Room)

For those of you who don't know me well, you may think I'm a closeted hermit. Maybe I am.  I enjoy people and consider myself a people person, but I also value my space - above all else now.

Sydney Opera House - Sydney, Australia
On my Bucket List
(Hallway.  Picture lights up)

Tomorrow is my last day of winter break.  It has been a very productive time.  After church, I ran a few errands, so that tomorrow will be a complete day of rest.

Barj Al Arab - Dubai, UAE
(Hallway)

When we return to school, I'll be responsible for the Western teachers' evaluations that will begin happening almost immediately.  I'll be sharing the load of evaluating twenty or so teachers with one of the Heads of Faculty.  I'm looking forward to being in the classrooms to see the teachers and students in action.

Las Vegas Strip - Las Vegas, Nevada
On my Bucket List
(Living Room - This one lights up, too)

Side note - Two quotes that grabbed my attention in Life is a Verb are:

     ---"Wisdom begins with wonder." - Socrates

     ---"Being practical and safe and always logical is way overrated."  -Patti Digh

Eiffel Tower - Paris, France
(Living Room)

I'm including pictures of my wall art.  I've got a travel theme going on with the exception of two pictures.  Places I've been and places I want to visit.  Most of these pictures were less than ten dollars.

Brooklyn Bridge???
Brooklyn, New York
(Master Bedroom Hallway)

"Lip" Flowers
(Master Bedroom)

Several of you have suggested that this blog might turn into a book.  That very opportunity presented itself and I took advantage of it.  It will be hard bound and coffee table ready.  Mine will not be on display, however.  I didn't take the time to check the posts for errors, so it will just be a book blog full of errors.  If nothing else, it's a decent hard copy of these posts.

More on this later.

Good morning to you and goodnight to me.

Forbidden Fruit

It's late, so be forewarned.  The later it is I do this, the more prone to errors.  My apologies, in advance.

Now with that tidbit of knowledge, let's dig in.

I began the day by giving myself a perm and dying my hair.  To the guys reading this, I know this doesn't seem like a big deal, but it is.  Thankfully, I've almost always done my hair myself, so this transition here was easy.  I've even cut my hair myself.  That might be why it's in so many different lengths.  Anyway, it's one less thing to worry about finding help with.

Next, I waited for the arrival of the dresser mirror that had been broken on two previous attempts to install it.  Gratefully, it arrived in one piece and was installed in about fifteen minutes.  My home is now officially complete.

One of the ladies that I traveled with from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain, invited me to dinner. She's British.  Unfortunately, she is still waiting on her passport, and so she doesn't have a car yet.  No worries.  I picked her up.  It gave me a chance to see the other apartment complex where many of the ADEC folks live.  It was very nice, but those of us living in my complex got the better end of the deal.  For one, where she lives is farther from the city center, so it takes longer to get places you need to visit or do business with.  Also, ours are bigger.  We have 2.0 bedrooms and 2.5 baths.  They have 2.0 bedrooms, with 1.5 baths.  They have bigger kitchens, though.  Of course, I'm not sad about the size of ours.

My friend is throwing herself a birthday/open house event tomorrow, that I wasn't interested in going to.  She asked if I wanted to go to dinner instead, and I chose dinner.  We went to the Hilton, the landmark that I saw from seventeen different angles on one of the days I was hopelessly lost.  I'm using my GPS, but just the thought of going to the Hilton, flooded my mind with images of being lost.  You know, the map in my lap, and going around the roundabout there, over and over again.

Anyway, it's her birthday, so she picked the spot.

BUT, before we made it to the Hilton, she asked to go by the liquor store to pick up some wine for her party tomorrow.

Remember, this is a dry COUNTRY.  The only place you can get liquor legally is at hotels with bars and lounges, and this little store, apparently.

So, she is directing me as I drive.  No GPS for this stop.  It is behind the Hilton, with several turns getting us deeper and deeper into darkness, when we see a bunch of cars crowded around a little hole-in-the-wall store.  There's no sign identifying it as a store.  In fact, there's a porch, so it's resembles someone's house.  Once inside, I'm totally fascinated.

Now, you know, I don't drink.  Never have.  Being raised by an alcoholic father was the best deterrent I needed to stay away from the stuff.

But, I was fascinated by this store.  It was packed - wall to wall - with every kind of hard liquor, beer and wine you could think of.  And the line of folks buying the stuff was crazy long, but it was moving fast.  Didn't see any native Emirati.  If they were there, they were wearing street clothes.  I'm guessing any native would send someone else to buy it for them.

The folks buying all of this forbidden fruit, were the men who make up the labor force.

Side note - Did I mention we were the only women anywhere near the place?

And goodness gracious, buying they were.  Every guy in there left with at least two bags.  The bags were plastic and black.  You have to hide your purchases, I guess.

My friend paid for her wine and off we went back to the jammed parking lot.  It was one way in and and one way out, so you had to turn around to exit the joint.  Not an easy task with all of the traffic.  Based on the crazy parking that some of the guys did, I'm wondering if some of them had a few before they got there.

We made our way to the Hilton.  Had to wait about an hour for dinner to be served. We sat in the bar and had a couple of drinks - wine for my friend, hot tea for me. Rhythm and Blues was playing over the PA System.  Only a few folks there, mostly expats.

We then moved to one of the restaurants and had a lovely dinner and great conversation.  This lady is about my age.  Even though we come from very different worlds, our common age made conversation easy.

On the ride home, she mentioned a grocery store near her that sells pork.  Now remember, this is a Muslim country so pork is another of the forbidden fruit.

Once I dropped her off, I made a beeline to that store, on a mission to buy some bacon.  It's amazing the things you crave when they are off limits.

Well, I was in hog's heaven.  Pardon the pun.  I bought bacon, a whole ham, some sausages and my first frozen dinner.  Way too much, I'm sure, but this store is not along my beaten path, so I don't expect to go by there again soon.

The pork is sold in a separate room in the front of the store.  There's a sign over the door that states this section is for non-Muslims only.

Side note 2 - Beyonce was playing over the PA System in this store.

Twice today, I "tasted" of the UAE's version of forbidden fruit.  I gotta tell you, it was kinda of exciting.   You think I have the makings of a "bad girl?"

Nah.

I can still hear my momma's admonitions about making the right choices.  I know.  As old as I am.  A mother's projected guilt can last a lifetime.  Yes, I was raised Catholic.  Double the guilt.

Remember me as you go about your day, and don't do anything I wouldn't do.

Good night.

This 'n That

Had an iPod issue that was solved today.

I had music on my iPod that was purchased on discs and uploaded.  When I transferred my iTunes library from my PC to my MacBook, I lost those songs.  If I synced the iPod with iTunes, it would have been wiped clean.  I needed to get the songs from the iPod to my iTunes Music Library before syncing.  I googled the problem - I love those google boys - and found a solution.  A program called Senuti worked great!  It was quick, easy and free.  My kind of program.

Then I headed off to my school.  I needed to drop off some things.  This is the first time I've been back since getting my GPS system.  Thankfully, I found it without incident.  The security guards and custodians were there, so I could access the building.

On the way home, I went through the mountain.  What a majestic view!  For about five miles you're driving directly into the mountain (seemingly), when at the last minute, you veer right and then left and now you're riding in the middle of it. Amazing views!

It's oftentimes hazy near the mountain.  I'm not sure if it's from the clouds or the sand or both.

Side note - A dear friend asked about the weather.  It continues to be very mild.  This is their winter, too.  The highs are mid-70's and the lows are mid-50's.  The rainfall average is four days per year.  It has drizzled once since I've been here for about half hour.  You could hardly see any evidence of rain.  Wonder if that counts as one of their rain days?

Side note 2 - Had to go back to the bank that had the really slow service, and one of the ladies who kept putting me off, came to me today to offer her help.  She was gracious and kind.  I had to take back all of my thoughts about her from our previous encounter.

On my ride through the mountain, I passed a truck with two camels in the back. Every now and then, they would raise their heads to check out the view.  Precious sight.

Then I passed a herd of camels grazing in a pasture.  Not sure what they were eating.  I only could see the sand.  Just miles and miles of sand.

Side note 3 - I was thirsty as I was leaving my school and there's a souq very near by.  I stopped and the guy minding the shop was asleep.  I had to wake him up to pay him.  There's not much traffic in that area, so I'm guessing business is slow. Why not indulge in a nap or two?

Speaking of napping.  I had a glorious one this afternoon.  Thankfully, it was early enough that it shouldn't interfere with my normal bedtime routine.

Side note 4 - Tried the spicy shawermas.  They're even better than the regular ones.

Side note 5 - It feels fantastic to reach in drawers and cupboards instead of suitcases when I'm looking for something.  You don't realize how much you miss stability until you don't have it.

Side note 6 - Pizza Hut has pizzas that are from the heart of Arabia.  The ones I've posted are the featured ones.  Haven't tired them yet.

Hope this year is off to a great start and is all you're hoping for and more.

Books

Really productive day.  Got a lot of things done . . . effortlessly.  Thank God!

Rewarded myself by starting two books.  One is a trashy romance novel, but the other is providing lots of food for thought.  It's entitled, Life is a Verb by Patti Digh.

The premise of the "Life" book is intentional living.  It came about after experiencing the death of her stepfather from discovery that he had cancer, to 37 days days later, when he died from it.

She questions, how would our life be different, if we knew we only had 37 days to live?  What would take precedence?  What would we deem "important?"  How would our lives differ from the way we're currently living?

There is nothing morbid or sad about the book, not yet anyway.  I've only just begun, but so many of her observations make you go . . . hmmmmm.

Digh admonishes her audience to "practice being curious, not judgmental."  That's a lesson I need to learn . . . quick.

Another - "Don't just drive somewhere.  Make the journey memorable."

As a teacher, this one rang true:  "Nine tenths of education is encouragement."

And my favorite - "When you take charge of your life, there is no longer a need to ask permission of other people or society at large.  When you ask permission, you give someone else veto power over your life."

I hope these inspire you as much as they did me.

Off to do more reading.

Trek to Abu Dhabi

I got on the road about 10:00am heading to Abu Dhabi.  There ere a couple of things I needed to take care of that required the trip.  It's the first time I've been back since my arrival in Al Ain.

I was pressed for time, so I didn't stop to take pictures, but I saw some of the most amazing sand dunes, as big and as high as the mountains.  Beautiful mounds of fine, golden sand.

Also evident were some of the roundabouts that I missed seeing on the way in because we arrived at night. One in particular was whimsical.  It looked like bubbles - white and green bubbles - seemingly floating in the air.  Inviting and playful.

The roundabouts are really public art that reflects the culture and the country.  Each one tells a story.  It's sometimes challenging grasping the story when you're on a mission to just get through it.  But with a little time and attention, going through them is a real treat.

Stopped by the internet provider's kiosk in the mall.  There were five people working with two customers.  The man ahead of me was being helped, which left four others available.  There was no acknowledgement, but after about 10-15 minutes, I was helped.

Same thing in the bank.  I stopped by to get a copy of my bank statement.  Four people were working, with three people available most of that time.  I tried on four different occasions to get help, only to be told it would be another minute.  It took 45 minutes.

Expect things to take a while and be pleasantly surprised when they don't.  That's my thinking from now on.

I had a fascinating conversation with an Arab gentleman who is from Egypt.  We were talking about how Arabs are still sometime given a double take because of 9/11. What was interesting was his take on the mosque that was proposed very near Ground Zero.  He said, "Why there?  What was the purpose or rationale for putting it there other than to incite tension?"  I was surprised by this, and appreciative of his perspective.

I was lamenting to this same man that it was taking some effort to get things done, and he said that in Egypt, you are expected to pay to get things done.  Bribes were not only expected, but encouraged.  On the down low, of course.  So, once he shared that, I changed my tune about the UAE.

Perspective makes a difference.

Planning to get started on another book.  In fiction, the beginning of a book is my least favorite part.  You're trying to figure out who's who and what's what. Sometimes it takes me a minute to "get it."  Once I figure all that out, I'm good to go, but getting there is colorful.

Today is Sandra's birthday.  She was a classmate from elementary through high school.  I haven't seen or spoken to her in 37 years.  Funny the random things that stay with you, right?

Keep forgetting to mention that gas is $1.63 a gallon.

Going to drink some tea and call it a night.

More soon.

Hello 2012!

My sincere thanks to a dear friend who wrote words of encouragement just now.

I wasn't going to post because I haven't felt well.  I nursed a migraine all day. Shouldn't have mentioned that I had not had one in a while in the post yesterday. It's almost as if I reminded my body about them.

Note to self - don't mention migraines again.

I hope that you all have a wonderful beginning of the new year.

Mine begins with random thoughts.

Forgive.  It doesn't matter who did what when.  Just forgive.  Not for the other person, but for you.  Extraordinary things began to happen in my life when I finally made the choice to forgive.  Don't make the mistake I did and hold a grudge for decades.  I speak from experience when I say the only one you're hurting is yourself.  So, I encourage you.  Forgive.

I bought a hookah pipe.  I know.  I know.  You're thinking, she has gone off the deep end for sure.  Let me explain.  The hookah pipe is very much a part of this culture and I wanted to be able to take some of the culture with me.  Yes, I did buy the stuff you burn, along with coals to burn it, and I did go online to figure all of this out.  But no, I'm not planning any hookah parties anytime soon.

Hookah Pipe

The test package arrived in New York!  It was mailed about a month ago from Abu Dhabi, but it got there.  Yeah!

The stores are having huge back-to-school sales.  I'm guessing they also had them at the beginning of the school year, too.  Interesting that they're having them mid-year, as well.

I realized that I needed to buy linen for the sofa bed and did that yesterday.  It's official.  I'm ready for visitors.  As I've said before, this is a place that's so wonderful, it has to be shared.  I hope some of you are giving it serious consideration.

Stores sell some comforters in two pieces.  The quilt-like comforter plus the cover that fits like a pillowcase. Clever idea really.  It makes changing the look really easy and much less expensive than buying the traditional comforter.

Finally, I have a local Sacramento phone number through MagicJack.  The number is 916-222-0571.  The catch is the computer has to be on for a call to come through. If you call and I'm not online, you can leave a message though.  I get those just fine.

The journey continues with great expectation.

Reflections - Part 2

Let me begin by apologizing for all of the errors in yesterday's post (and prior ones, too).  Seriously, I should not touch the keyboard after midnight.

Contrary to popular belief, I do actually proofread these before publishing, reading them again and again, and I often make corrections after publication.  Too often though, I'm too close to them to see the blindingly obvious mistakes.

My sincere apologies.

Today:

I was moving slowly this morning.  Had a couple of errands I intended to run, but was not in a hurry.  At about 8:15, I received a call from my bank, saying that a card I ordered was ready for pick-up.  The lady noted that I needed to get there before noon.  I'm assuming they were closing early for the holiday.  Truth be told, I'm surprised they were open at all.

Anyway, I said all that to say my day started earlier than planned.

I needed to go by the post office to pick up my ID Card.  Did that, but was informed that I needed to go to Abu Dhabi to get it or wait another ten days for them to send it to Al Ain.  I opted to go get it, but decided to wait until Monday because I need to go to the ADEC Office in Abu Dhabi as well.  Kill two birds with one stone, kind of thing.

Ran a couple of more errands.  Got home and waited for the folks to deliver the broken chest mirror.  The guys came, opened up the new one to install, and it, too, was broken.  Will deliver again on Monday.  I called the store to ask if I couldn't have the one on display.  We know that one isn't broken and it's local.  Still waiting to hear from them.

I'm more than halfway through New Year's Eve.  It's after 4:00pm now.  As is my custom, I will be sleeping when the clock strikes midnight.  I can't remember the last time I saw the new year arrive.  I like sleeping way too much.  I also never liked going out on New Year's Eve.  Way too many crazies out and about then.  

Reflections:

Last year at this time, I had no earthly idea that the very near future would hold such an extraordinary transformation for me with this new job.  As I think back on the timeline - getting a verbal confirmation on Aug. 20th, the contract on October 20th and the ticket to depart on November 20th - I remember many frustrating days wondering if this would actually happen.  Because of the delay though, I had the chance to spend some really quality time with Frankie and his family.  (Being a grandma is a joy unspeakable).  Now that I'm here, I realized my arrival time was perfectly orchestrated.  I had weeks to become acclimated and explore the country before having to report to work.  Once on the job, I only worked four days before the winter break with three weeks off, which gave me more than enough time to shop and furnish my new home.  It would have been really stressful to try and do all of this while working.

So, even though the timing seemed off while I was waiting, it ended up being perfect.

Some of you might be in the same boat as I was, waiting for something to happen. Know that it will happen when its supposed to.  Don't fight it.  Just be content, knowing it is going to happen at a time that will result in the best possible outcome for you.

Whenever you're in doubt, remember my story.

Never in a million years did I think I would be retired at this time last year either. Considering my age, I hadn't been in the workforce long, so I never paid attention to the quarterly retirement statements.  I assumed I would be working in my former school district for the next hundred years.  This year retirement was possible because I reached the magic age of 55 with over ten years of service.  Interestingly, I applied to work in Kuwait last year and was disappointed when that didn't happen. Little did I know it was because there was something much better.  If I'd gotten that job, I would have requested, and probably would have been denied, a leave of absence from the Sacramento school system I was attached to.  This way, I made a clean break, with an added bonus of a monthly retirement salary.

When I think about all of you, my incredible family and friends, I know I couldn't have left Sacramento without your help and encouragement.  Thank you!

I'm honored that you're taking this ride with me.  I know I'm totally long-winded about nothing sometimes, so on the days you skip, it's all good.

When Frankie and I were Skyping a few days ago, I carried my laptop around my place so he could see it. This was prior to the pictures being published.  When he saw the curtains, he said, "This is what you spent so much time writing about?"  So, I realized then I may have overdone it on the curtains.  And probably on getting lost. And moving.  So thanks for hanging in there through all that.

As you recall, a dear friend reminded me to be thankful for my health.  Yes!  Yes! Yes!  Without good health, none of this would not be possible. Thankfully, I've been virtually migraine-free since arriving here.  More and more, I think my headaches were stress-related.  It's amazing the negative impact stress can have on our lives.

As we come to the final hours of 2011,  let us all be thankful for our many blessings. And there are many. Sometimes we struggle to remember them, but when we do, we are reminded of how good we really have it.

I was sharing with Frankie - too often, where you're born determines your lot in life.  I was referring to the young Philippine girls who are the custodians in my building. Young, beautiful girls.  Remember, they make $167 a month and they had to pay some agency to get them these jobs, pay their way here and will have to pay their way back if it doesn't work out.  How would their lives be different if they were born or raised some place else?  Would it be better?  Worse?  In what ways?  Or am I using the wrong measuring stick to determine what is success or not?  Maybe they are successful in the ways that matter most.  I don't know.

Enough philosophizing.

I look forward to 2012 with great anticipation.  Like you, I don't know what the future holds, but I'm excited about all the possibilities.

May this be the beginning of the best years of your life!

Happy New Year!

Jebel Hafeet and Wedding Bells

Lots to talk about today.  In the form of random thoughts.

Here goes:

I have to continue to look for a church.  Went back to the original one I visited, and struggled to stay for the whole sermon.  Too much of the message was "woe is me." I want to be uplifted and inspired, not condemned.  The search continues.

Quick update on the test package I sent to New York.  It did arrive in the US in two weeks, but got lost once it arrived there.  I'm hopeful it will show up at some point. Doesn't lead to a lot of confidence in the postal system in either country.

Christened my stove today by preparing my first meal on it.  Works like a champ. Even though it's small, my biggest pots could fit on it together - no problem.  Yes, it was good enough to eat.  Spaghetti.  Hard to mess that up.

Finished reading a book last night that I stayed up too late to complete.  I was not happy with the ending though.  All of that time invested, and you come to the end and . . .

When I unpacked everything, I found the electronic frame with all of Zadie's (my granddaughter) pictures.  It's incredible to see how much she's grown in a year's time.  I shouldn't be surprised though.  I remember pushing her father in a stroller like it was yesterday, and look at him now.  How time flies.

I went the local fast food joint, to ask if I could take some pictures of the hanging meat.  They agreed, and were flattered I think.

This is the sphere/rod that contains the packed meat used to make the shawerma.  In this case, chicken.    The guys packed the meat like this themselves.  They shave it and the shavings, along with pickles and a couple of french fries, wrapped in pita-life bread, make up the shawerma.  Thankfully, they let me photograph it and them.

You can't tell from this picture, but this one has a red tint.  It's the spicy one. 

Wrapped shawerma





Naked shawerma.  It tastes better than it looks.

I made it up the mountain that is in town.  Breathtaking views both going up and coming down.  I was planning on making the trek at night, but I'm so glad I went in daylight.  It was winding a lot.

On the way to Jebel Hafeet - the mountain.

View from lookout point.  

Another view from the lookout point.

View from lookout point 3

Finally, I went to the wedding.  It was more like the reception because you don't see the ceremony.

Here's how it went down.  Yesterday I contacted the only person I knew who could give me directions.  When  she didn't respond, I assumed I had missed it.

No problem.

While I was out and about today, I received a text from her asking that I contact her, which I did.  It was 6:00pm.  She asked me if I still wanted to go.  I said I did, but thought I missed it.  It didn't start until 8:30pm.  We agreed on a meeting place. When they arrived, I was the fourth and last car of the caravan.

The lead driver was driving like a wild person.  It took everything I had to keep up. The four cars going through at least a half dozen roundabouts was colorful.  Lots of honking going on.

When we arrived, it was a huge reception hall.  I could see the entrance from my car.  It was the one with only ladies.  That's right.  There were no men in the building.  Not until the grooms arrive, after the brides make their grand entrance.

When I walked up, the air was thick with the smell of incense.  Ladies were entering a makeshift foyer.  I had lost the folks I was following, so I entered alone.  No big deal.

Once I got past the initial thick air, I was greeted by someone with an ornate flask that had something like a dip stick in it.  The lady was touching folks with it.  She asked me if I wanted some.  I asked what was it and she replied, perfume.  So I got my dab of perform and arrived at the entrance.

From there I could see just how big the place was.  Must have seated several thousand.  The tables were set for a formal meal.  I found an empty seat at the back and proceeded to take it all in.

The ladies were milling about.  Most had on elaborate abayas.  Beautiful.  Others had on evening gowns.  Lots of sparkle.

I was surprised at the number of kids there.  And boy, the little girls looked like beauty contestants.  They were totally dolled up.

Some of the ladies from my school recognized me and came by to say hello.  The folks I lost earlier, came by, too.

By now there is incredibly loud, live music.  A woman is singing and two others are dancing.  They were wearing evening gowns and shaking their booties pretty good.  I was surprised at all of their gyrations.

I was invited to sit with several groups, but declined because I knew I wouldn't be there long.  Between the thick air and the throbbing music, I could feel a headache coming.

So, in essence, folks are invited to the reception, not the wedding.  Protocol dictated that no one leaves before the bride(s) arrive.  I did.  I'm told they make a grand entrance.  The stage is like one for a beauty pageant, with a runway.  The brides walk back and forth so everyone can see them.  Then they are seated on couches located on stage.  Finally, the groom(s) arrive.  I'm told you can tell they are on the way because all the women cover up.

No photography was allowed.

It is my understanding all weddings here are arranged.  Makes sense because at no time are women and men together, so there isn't an opportunity to get to know someone.  

This wedding was a double one with two brothers marrying two sisters.  I was told they're first cousins.  Not sure how accurate that last bit of info is though.

I lasted as long as I could, less than an hour.  I'm glad I went, but I'm also glad to be home.  I'm guessing the bride(s) wouldn't have arrived until about midnight.

That, my dear friends and family, is a wedding, Arabian style.

Spa Day

My lack of rest caught up with me today.


I dragged myself back to the ID lady, with no progress.  I asked her to call me when she knew something.  Interestingly, later today I received a text stating that my ID Card is ready for pick-up.  Right hand not knowing what the left is doing is a universal issue.

Next stop - Radiance Spa for Women.  I was overdue for another threading of my eyebrows and a pedicure.  This spa is located in the mall parking lot of the mall that is on the way and closest to my school.

It's lovely inside.  Beautifully decorated spaces.  There's the eyebrow/facial section, the mani/pedi section, the hair salon section, the waxing section and the massage section.  Everything is pink.  The walls, the accents, even the ornaments on the Christmas tree.  Reminded me of Mary Kay Cosmetics and the pink Cadillacs. Christmas music was piped in for all to enjoy.

The two women who serviced me were great.  In an hour and a half, I was presentable again.

I went in the mall to check out the shoes.  The only bogus info I received prior to arriving here was about shoes.  I was told sandals and open toe shoes were not allowed.  Flip flops for sure were banned.  As it turns out, sandals are very much allowed, along with open toe shoes, and flip flops are allowed, but discouraged.  So, I needed to pick up some sandals.  Thankfully, they have my favorite shoe store - Payless - with a darling salesman who aims to please.  Shopping here will be fun.

Left there, came straight home and took a long nap.

Woke up and watched some TV.  I increased my Western package to include every Western station available.  I just watched a Samuel L. Jackson movie and a couple of days ago I saw the George Clooney/Ryan Gosling movie, The Ides of March. Great one.  Highly recommended.  I'm a big Ryan Gosling fan since his tiny, but very good, role in Remember the Titans.  Later, one of my favorite movies of all time, Death at a Funeral, will be playing.  I have their version of TiVo, so I'm recording it.

Yesterday, when I got out of the Mission Impossible movie, I stopped by the restroom. To my utter surprise, there was a boy, about ten years old, who came out of one of the stalls, and washed his hands next to me.  I think he was with the young women who were also present.  Not sure why he didn't use the men's room that was next door. No one else seemed bothered by this.  Reminds me of some Italian friends whose son was still on the bottle at five years old.  Perfectly acceptable behavior in Rome twenty-five years ago.

Side note - I've been invited to a double wedding tomorrow.  My principal's two sons are marrying sisters.  The entire staff was invited to this joyous occasion.  I've just contacted someone to get the details - time and place.  If for no other reason, being there will be a window into the wedding culture, Arab style.

Side note 2 - The mall where I saw Mission Impossible, Al Ain Mall, has an ice skating rink, and a bowling alley, too.

Winter Wonderland at Al Ain Mall

Ice Skating at al Ain Mall

Side note 3 - Thanks to you who left positive comments about my new home.  I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

Mission Impossible

My intentions were to stay close to home today, and catch up on some much needed rest. Instead, I was out of the door early and gone most of the day.

There is an issue with my yet to arrive ID Card that required my having to visit the lady who was slow as molasses in creating some necessary document when I first arrived in Al Ain and I was trying to get my driver's license.  I waited about a half hour before she would deal with me and my issue because if she looked up my info, she would loose what she was working on.  Was there no way to save it?  Anyway, she needed to call someone, the line was busy, then they just didn't answer.  After waiting about an hour and a half, I got the verdict.  It seemed I already had an ID application in the works, from some form I completed while I was in Abu Dhabi.  You would think the system would have prevented me for even applying for another one, right?  Not so.  Of course, I didn't realize I was applying for the same document. Long story short, I told the lady I'd come back to find out what the solution will be. Otherwise, I'm sure I'd still be sitting in this office, waiting and waiting and waiting some more.  I went back at the end of the day, but it was locked tight.  Mañana.  Mañana.  Not sure what the Arabic version of this is.

When I left there I was starving, and noticed a Pizza Hut in the next block.  I stopped, ordered a personal size pizza and a salad.  This store had the same domed cover on the salad bar as the one in Abu Dhabi.  I'm convinced they have the best salad in the UAE.

This country is a desert and very little grows here besides palm dates.  So, everything - food staples, for sure - is imported.  As a result, fruits and vegetables are not always the best looking.  Meat either.  In fact, the raw chicken in the frozen sections oftentimes has a grey tint to it.  That can't be good.  The upside for me is that this is not something I would usually buy anyway, but still.

I'm surprised that I haven't seen frozen dinners since I've been in the country.  Since everything else is slow and methodical, there's no rush to make a quick dinner. These folks take their time cooking and eating.

Speaking of eating, there's a local version of fast food where they sells something that fascinates me.  In fact, I intended to go by tonight and ask them to take a picture of it.  I hope you're able to visualize it from my crude description.  The name of it is shawerma and it tastes great.

There are two spears hanging down, each with chicken that is packed tight.  It is layers and layers of boneless chicken.  This speared meat stands about three feet tall and is next to an open flame.  The cook turns the spear so that the meat cooks evenly.  Once done, he shaves off slices of meat and serves it on a pita-like bread.  It looks like a pita, but is coarser and stiffer.  He stuffs the meat in the bread, adds two or three french fries, pickles and garlic (which I ask him to omit).  He then twists the top so the ingredients don't fall out.  When completed, it's about the size of a hot dog.  It's very tasty.  The second spear holds chicken also, but it's the the red-tinted spicy version.  Haven't tried that yet.

I've only seen one drive thru eating establishment since I arrived in the country. Their version of a drive through is this - one of their workers stands outside and when someone drives up wanting food, they toot the horn and this guy takes their order and their money and returns with their food.  This scene just keeps repeating itself over and over again.

Later this afternoon, I went to the movies to see Mission Impossible 4:  Ghost Protocol.  Typical action movie.  Bad guys must be stopped.  Our guy is the only one to do it.  They fight.  Chase each other.  Fight some more.  Followed by an even faster, crazier chase.  On and on.  Not my cup of tea usually, but I wanted to see it because parts of it was filmed in Dubai.  It's worth the price of admission just for the view of the city.  Amazing aerial shots.

Did I mention it was in English?  Normally it takes a minute for a new movie to be released here, but I'm guessing because of the great publicity for the city and the country, it opened the same day here as in the states.  Of course, this is all speculation on my part.

Next, I stopped by Bath and Body Works because this mall is the only one that features this store.  I stocked up on the sweet smelling stuff and headed back home.

Before I left home though, I took pictures of the place and realized that it has a close resemblance to a brothel.  In fact, the only thing missing is a neon sign.  I've got the perfect spot for it, too.  I noticed several stores that sell beaded room dividers, so some red beads would be easy to get, too.

Of course, it was not my intention to create that kind of dwelling, but the strong resemblance is undeniable.

You decide.  (The pictures are in the order you would see things if you were walking through the apartment).

Guest Bath - 1st thing on your left when you walk in

Entryway - Bowl for keys/cabinet for purse

Kitchen

Kitchen 2

Kitchen 3

Cute Little Stove (Cooker)

Washer/Dryer Combo - Works great!

Dining Room contains sofa bed and desk.  This room was supposed to be the Living Room, but it's not well-lit.  Window faces a wall.

Coffee Urn & Serving Cart = Unique to this country and variations of it can be found in every office.

Sofa Bed

         Desk

Master Bedroom

Infamous Curtains - Yes, they're red.

Closet - sits next to wall

Living Room - Was supposed to be Master Bedroom, but the lighting in here is wonderful, so I made the switch.

Living Room 2

This concludes the tour folks.  What do you think?  Brothel, right?  

No, it's just home.  

Good to Go

I came close to skipping this tonight.  I've had two very late nights and need to get some serious sleep, but it's only 6:30pm.  If I go to bed now, I'll be up for the day at 2:00am.  So, I'm going to hang tough for a couple more hours.

Thankfully, every "i" has been dotted and every "t" crossed relative to my new place.  It's just the way I want it.  I did the last of the running around for it today, and now I can sit back and relax for the rest of the break.  Yeah!!!

Side note - When someone asks what your name is, they ask, "What is your "good name?"  It took me a minute to figure out that they simply wanted to know my name.

Side note 2 - Parking is on the street, but when everyone returns from break, we'll have to park in our assigned spots, in an underground parking structure.  I love it down there.  It's well lit and they're elevators close by.  Also, when I'm parked there, no one knows if I'm home.  I know.  I know.  I just really like my space and enjoy my solitude.

Side note 3 - There is 24-hour security here, too.  One person sits at the front gate, and another at the back.  They recognize me and my car.  Friendly guys.

Speaking of security - you see them everywhere.  I know I've mentioned this before, but it bears repeating. They are in the corridors of every mall.  In the stores. Outside.  Everywhere.  Again, is crime so low because of their presence, or are they that good at keeping a handle on it?  Don't know, but glad about the results nonetheless.

Side note 4 - Interestingly, I know of at least one teacher hired by Teach Away to teach here that has no experience in the classroom.  Zilch.  None.  I think that's crazy.  You need to walk in the door with some skills.  On the job training would be tough because you're trying to figure out what you're doing and you're trying to make sense of the culture.  Not a smart move.

Side note 5 - Still experimenting with making calls back home.  Google chat works well and I'm grateful for it.  The downside is you're using your computer as the vehicle and it's not as portable as a phone.  I purchased MagicJack before I left the States, which allows you to use your phone, and just tried it yesterday to pretty awful results.  Not sure if it was MagicJack or a weak connection.  Tyrone (my router) and I had a conversation about that and he seems to be working just fine now.

Ok.  My brain is fried.

Hope you're still enjoying your holidays.

More soon.  God willing, as my Arab brothers say.

Round and Round the Roundabouts

Bird Roundabout - Official Name = Baladiya Roundabout

It's 9:15 in the evening, and the sound of drilling is filling my new home.  I waited all day for delivery of my furniture. They arrived two hours past the 10:00-5:00 window.  That's OK cause they're here now.

Here's the kicker though, all of the stuff came in flat boxes!  My rationale for choosing this store instead of Ikea was the fact that the things would be assembled and ready to go.  Is this the reason it was such a good deal?

Anyway, there are three guys hard at work.  I felt guilty about inquiring where they were and satisfied my conscious by buying them a bite to eat.  Besides, I figured they would concentrate better on the job at hand, if they weren't starving.

The pictures of my place will have to wait, but I have a treat for you - pictures of some of the roundabouts (R/A) this city is known for.  I've tried taking pictures while driving around them.  Not the best idea. Thankfully someone far better at this sort of thing than me, took great pictures and posted them on the web.  Below are a select few.  Enjoy!

The official name of this one is the Castle Roundabout.  All I know is I was always a happy soul when I spotted it cause that meant I had almost made it to the hotel.

Castle R/A (I called this one the Fort R/A)

Another view of the Fort R/A

Globe R/A

Close-Up of Globe

Another Close-Up of Globe

Mandoos R/A - Haven't seen this one yet

Coffe R/A?

Sheikh Zayed R/A

close-Up of Sheikh Zayed R/A

Sheikh Mubarak R/A

This one is unique because there's traffic beneath it

Waterfall R/A

Another view of Waterfall R/A

Side note - My doorbell rang at about 9:45.  I thought it was my homesick friend. Not so.  It was the adjacent neighbor on the other side of me.  He came by to complain about the noise.  No hello.  No introductions.  Just complaining.  Said his wife was in bed.  He would have gotten more sympathy if he said he had a baby trying to sleep.  Did he really think I wanted these guys here at that time of night? What was I supposed to do?  Send them away and ask them to return tomorrow? Not off to the best start with this fellow.  

Returning to my zen state of mind now.  Deep breaths.

Side note 2 - The guys did an incredible job of getting everything together in less than three hours.  Amazing!  It looks fantastic in here, if I must say so myself.  A mirror was broken that will be replaced in a couple of days.  Other than that, I'm good to go.

Side note 3 - I bought a drill today.  You think it's too late to drill baby drill?

I will be a good neighbor.

I will be a good neighbor.

I will be a good neighbor.

Thanks again for hanging with me for a while.