Christmas in Turkey 2010 Scrapbook

Turkey and the Junkie

Having left the United States 3 months ago, my life has been turned upside down, shaken, and stirred. I had not realized how important a set schedule had become to my life and just how strictly it was followed- anything from house cleaning day (Sat.), TV show schedule, dinner nights with friends, meetings, etc.

Another thing about leaving your home country, one doesn't always think about the traditions that are lost. We fall captive of our own doings, celebrations, and beliefs, yet forget that not everyone else is held in captivity too.

Television in this country has been a hardship. I used to have a set schedule of shows:

Desperate Housewives and Brothers & Sisters, Grey's Anatomy Oprah, Dr. Phil, The Doctor's, Glee, Biggest Loser, etc.

All of which are seasons behind, so my Junkie days of TV watching are over. It is actually nice not having to depend on watching TV shows, but instead living life! TV has become of little importance to me lately, which made me realize how much I depended on it back home!

I am writing this, having just passed through Thanksgiving. Giving thanks to a years plentiful harvest, and not forgetting the newly developed relationship between Native Americans and the Pilgrims. But yet, the Pilgrims didn't land in Abu Dhabi, UAE to meet the Native Americans....so what do they have to be thankful for? Nothing I suppose, if you label thanks under a day. And, this is where the story begins.

Thanksgiving Day, Thursday Nov.25th. Being in a land of so many ex-patriots, Americans especially,you find yourself longing for a tradition that you are so used to. I had awakened that morning, looking at my watch all day, mapping out what the family back home was doing. I was living the life of "Turkey Day" through a watch, past memories, and 7,000 miles away. I could picture my mom putting the turkey in the oven, along with that stupid ham that I hate the smell of. I had green been casserole, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie dancing around my head. It was that day, I realized how many traditions I am losing for the next 2-3 years of my life.

As the day started to end, I had a sudden sadness hit...I realized that I was going to get through Thanksgiving Day and not have a TURKEY meal. We, myself and a few friends, had decided that we would go "celebrate" Thanksgiving by having dinner. We had decided to go to one of our favorite hot spots, The One. I had walked in planning to have my normal routine meal, create your own pasta dish. But, there upon the menu, a Thanksgiving meal. Turkey, dressing, stuffing, carrots, etc. The feast was upon me, UAE style. Although it would never compare to what I would have at home, it was the thought. It was the mere fact that I had put the tradition monster to sleep...I had my turkey day!

So although it isn't the tradition I am used to....this experience was about making new traditions. Heck, I consider myself the luckiest gal ever...I have old traditions to fall back on and new ones to add.

So, wherever you are, wherever you were, and however you did it...I hope everyone had a wonderful Turkey Day!

Dunes at Dusk

Starting on this journey to the Middle East, I have created another "bucket list." A list that I hope to accomplish all, but it is a far fetched idea. A list that has the top places I want to see...things I want to do....and places I want to travel.

Among the things on that list, and something that has taken me SO long to complete, being that I live in a desert....OFF-ROADING! Yup, I want to hop into a 4X4 car, and blitz through the sand dunes of the desert, in the middle of NO WHERE!

So, Friday October 22nd, there was an off-roading event raising money for a well known charity, Race for the Cure: Breast Cancer Awareness. It was an all-day event, including a day trip, a bar-b-que, and then a night trip (how we were getting home).

Being that Race for the Cure is primarily pink, Barbara and I were going to dress the part. We had found matching pajama sets that had pink, hearts, and were comfortable. Comfort would be key on this trip!

We attended the event, and rode with a good friend of Barbara's, a local Emirati by the name of Nasser. He is one of the nicest, giving, and extremely accommodating individuals that I have met (although they have all been very pleasant). He is a Marshall, so he was leading the afternoon group.

There was a time when I thought I was completely nuts for jumping out of an airplane, but knowing my personality, it is fitting. Now, I have to question my sanity again, by asking why someone would get in a car, in the middle of no where, and fly through sand....hoping you don't get stuck! HA, because it is FUN!!!

The amount of speed that you are able to use, as you literally glide through the sand dunes, in the middle of no where, is absolutely amazing. The skills that it takes to navigate through the desert and the dunes, it is something else.

During the day trip, it is so neat at how much you see in the desert...yes, a little bit of nothing, but you also see camels, creatures squirreling around, some neat plants, and a clear blue sky! It was very pretty, actually reminded me of being in the middle of the hill country somewhere in Texas (ironic enough).

The bar-b-que was yummy. Just as any good ol' Texas BBQ, it was pool-side.....steaks, chicken, and sausage. Sides galore, consisted of salads, pastas, and of course, dessert in the desert. :) It was nice....I was able to meet some of the other off-roading club members, chat a little, and rest before our big journey.

Getting home to Abu Dhabi is normally an easy route....a straight shot on a perfectly paved road. With caution of a few speed trap cameras, there isn't a lot that could get in your way. BUT, not this group!! Our journey back home to Abu Dhabi was going to be done 100% by desert. We wouldn't touch a foot of highway until the end. We were going to travel through the desert, as if we were in the olden days, but instead of camels...it would be by Cadillac (or Nissan Patrol, Toyota FJs, etc.). The really scary part to this ride, opposite of the day trip, you can't really see! So I could see when a big dune was coming, or how my driver was going to handle getting us over, but at night...things are different. Granted, the guys that were driving this trip had been doing this for a while and were rather good at off-roading....but at the same time, you are depending on a leader with a GPS, the car, and the lights on the car. Hmmm....well, here we go....

I hopped into a Nissan Patrol, orange of all colors, with one of the marshals Khaled. He is a friend of Barbara's, which I have come to know. He is a nice guy....very well traveled (travels to the States every year for work), very smart, and just a very like-able guy.

Off-roading at night has got to be by far, one of the coolest things ever! The unknown and the unexpected all by the glare of the moon...WAY COOL! Up and down, through the sand we go, all the way to Abu Dhabi. There were about 20 cars on this trip, which I now understand is WAY too many for a night trip. I think we were stopping every 10 minutes because someone got stuck, someone popped their tire off the rim, or we lost someone; the stopping got rather old, but what do you do?

* Putting the tire back on the rim, in the desert....let me just say, I don't ever want to do it. You think changing a tire on the road is hard or tiring, well, you ain't seen nothing yet! This is pure skill....balancing the jack atop sand (which sinks) by weight of 2-3 guys on the other side of the car...pure genius!

* Getting stuck in sand... it is just bound to happen, period...end of story! Every driver does it at some point, experience or not, but you know, they ALWAYS get out! (I don't know how, it just always works out!)

* Bathrooms in the desert- Well, you have one of two choices....you either hold it or you find something to go squat behind. There are no portable potties, and there darn sure isn't any running water! You are really roughing it out here!

It was mid point through the trip that was my Oprah "ah-ha" moment in the desert. We had reached the biggest sand dune, Negro Dune. It was HUGE! It was as if we had reached Mt. Everest and were prepping for the climb of our life! The boys had all raced each other to see who could get to the farthest point up the side of the dune. It was so steep, cars were sliding back down the dune...just crazy. The rest of us took a soda break, relaxed and "chatted."

When taking a night trip, warnings should always be remembered. As it was reaching past midnight, the marshals were worried about fog starting to settle. Being that I was not familiar with the desert, I couldn't imagine what they were so worried about! Yeah, right....fog in the desert, and it is going to obstruct our way home. Well, low and behold, I got my spoon full of fog alright. Not thinking, it only makes since that with the temperature of the sand being so hot, and the night time so cool in the desert (yes, it really does get kind of chilly at night) that the drastic temp changes would create an abundance of fog. It was starting to get so foggy, views were being blocked...windshields wouldn't clear (even with the defrost on), you couldn't see but 5-10 feet in front of you, etc. The guys were having to maneuver through the dunes blindly...guessing when to use speed and when not.

Toward the later part of the night, with the fog settling, the sand started to get wet, turning into a mud type. Getting up the dunes was becoming even more difficult. We passengers were having to hang out of the windows, being a watchman for the drivers. Barbara was so far out the window, she has stains to prove it. She looked like a freshly bathed puppy dog....wet hair matted to her face. I didn't look any better....curly hair and humid fog...not a good mix.

With all complications aside, the trip finally came to an end. There is a gate, which lets you on to the highway that takes you the rest of the way home. At this point, 3:30 am, I was never so happy to see the road. The fog had become to much, and I knew it just wasn't safe. In fact, as memory has it, Nasser got lost. He didn't see the rest of the crew turn off, so he kept going. He had missed the turn by a long shot. We were waiting for about 45 minutes before he had found his way back and picked us up. Another 30 minutes and we were home, showered, and in bed. I had never been so happy to see a shower too! One thing about sand...it gets EVERYWHERE...in your shoes, hair, bags, etc. Aghhh, a warm shower....

It was a total blast and a complete success, something that I would love to do again. Being that I still have plenty of time here, I am sure I will!

Birthday Bonaza

October 8, 1981

The day I was born, in Humble Texas. Twenty nine years later, and here I am....in a foreign country that I now call home, not sure where life is taking me, and so much to look forward to.

This birthday was different from all others...it was spent in a VERY different place, with friends (wonderful friends at that), but 7,000 miles away from family and close friends back home. It started out a bit strange, because it was so out of the ordinary. But, just like everything else, it turned out alright.

It started out just like any regular day. We had planned to go to a little Italian place for dinner. Barb and I had just found the place a week before, and ultimately became a favorite. You have to know, Italian food and Erin, we are good friends! Chantal was coming down from Al Ain to join us for dinner. It was to be small, quiet, just as any day. Another mistake I had made, this dinner night fell on the same night that there was a dragon boating competition, everyone had already made plans, and it was the end of a work week and people were tired. Again, no worries, it is just another day! I am come to the reality, as you grow older, birthdays aren't as much fun. Once you hit the main markers, 16....18....21, there isn't too much more to look forward to but getting older. :)

So, carrying on through a normal Friday afternoon, hanging out, running around town, shopping, etc....it was just like old times. We had decided to attend the Abu Dhabi car show. Barbara had heard about it, heard that the drifting team would be in town and out on a show, and it would be great fun.

We had returned to the hotel, everyone was to take a shower and get ready. So, within an hour, I was ready, but had not heard from the other two. Minutes later, with a ring of my doorbell, in walks Chantal and Barbara....rolling a tray in with a BASKIN ROBBINS ice cream cake, candles, balloons, and gifts. Pink bunny ears atop my head and my wishes were made. We gorged ourselves on decadent chocolate cake, giggled at the surprise of it all, and opened gifts. The girls went above and beyond!! I got:
1. a little shisha smoker....really cute
2. my favorite perfume, Samsara
3. a keychain, which marks so true..."Lost in Abu Dhabi"

So, the rest of the deal was, starting from this moment, the balloons were to go wherever I went. Yup, that is right....I walked around the car show, where the manly of the manliest men go....cars and motorcycles roared, and music blared...here I was with a trail of balloons attached to my purse. I must say, it was quite a scene, as there were many people who asked to take a picture, especially photographers from the local newspapers (I am yet to see the paper that published the pictures). There was no losing me...I could be spotted a mile away.

Next was dinner....off to Palazio Italian Rest. we went, balloons included. This has become one of my favorite rest. in the Abu Dhabi area! Not only do they have good food, Italian food at that, but the atmosphere of the rest. is absolutely divine. It is like you stepped off a plane and landed in Venice. The murals, the paintings, the decor, and even the chefs...it all reminds you of those quiet nights within the Venetian City...gondola rides, Italian music, and the smell of sweet Italian wines. Took me back to a place I didn't stay as long as I wanted, but enjoyed every moment of the experience.

We had stuffed ourselves to the brim....enjoying a divine feast of Italian favorites. We were so full, that by 10:00 PM, our beds were calling our names.

It was a great birthday..another year older, another year wiser, and another year spent with great friends, having a great time.

You wouldn't expect anything less....

Back home in the States, anyone could tell you, the day to live for was FRIDAY! Friday was the last day of the work week and therefore, started your two day mental health days (weekend). What a person would do without those, I just couldn't tell you.

Here, in the United Arab Emirates, our weekend starts on Thursday. Thursday marks the last day of the work week, Friday is the Holy Day (nothing is open and there isn't much to do), and Saturday is our "Sunday" in the States, but acts like a Saturday (everything is open and there is plenty to do).

I used to say I LOVE weekends, and I looked very much forward to weekends. Now, I can say I LOVE weekends, I CAN'T WAIT for weekends, weekends couldn't come FAST enough, I WORK for weekends, weekends are NOT long enough here, etc. Yes, that is right....I wake up Sunday morning (1st day of work) dreaming about my next weekend....I get through the week, counting down the hours until the weekend starts. I have never LOVED weekends as much as I do now, until I became a teacher in the UAE!

Not that my weekends are special, or I do anything over the top. Just the mere fact that I am run down to complete exhaustion and beat to a bloody pulp, the two days of not seeing bratty little 3rd graders, listening to them speak Arabic/call me names in Arabic, being able to talk without screaming and yelling, and just plain enjoy myself is well, like smelling roses! It is as enjoyable as that first bite into a chilled Gala apple, the smell and taste of my Starbucks caramel machiatto, and the feeling you get after the best nights sleep. I can seriously say, these two days are what I LIVE for in this country!

This past weekend, I would say is one of my over the top days, I had the pleasure of experiencing for the first time.....an Abu Dhabi hospital.

Last Wednesday (October 13th) I had decided to wear a brand new pair of shoes that I bought from the mall. A good brand....purchased from Aldos, all leather, slip on flats. I had received several compliments on them throughout the day. Until about mid-way through the afternoon, as they started rubbing blisters on my feet. :( Stuck, as I didn't have another pair of shoes to switch to, I continued about my day. As soon as I got home, I switched to another pair of shoes, and went about the rest of my day.

Thursday (October 14th), last day of the work week, I wear my trusty reef flip flops to school. Happy as usual, for my weekend is just hours away, I am walking up and down the isles of the classroom, checking the work of my students. I turn my head, making a step forward and I have an unfortunate run in with the bottom of a rolly backpack. Yup, I have just jammed my two small toes, also where the blister is located, into the bottom of one of my kiddos backpack. Not just any backpack, but one built of metal, heavy duty, 4 wheels, and heavy. As if this kid were leaving on the next jet plane, and going backpacking through the Alps! Oh my, the pain was like no other! Of course, my toes start bleeding, so I ask my student teacher to watch the class as I go over to the nurse.

Finally through the day and back at home, my foot is sore. It felt as though I had a broken toe or two (not an unusual experience for me) and a blister the size of Mount Everest. I thought it would heal just fine, just keep it clean. But, as the weekend went on, the pain worsened. I couldn't put a shoe on my foot, and the swelling just kept growing. So, with a "little help from my friends", Barbara had talked my into going to the doctor.

Fear of the unknown set in....I am still in a "new" place, which I call home now. But, I had not been to a doctor here, and things just aren't the same as they are in the States. The uneasy feeling set in, and I just lost it....cried like a baby, for fear that I was to navigate my way through this city, find parking for my car, walk into a hospital that I didn't know, and everything was going to be okay? hmmm. Thank the lord above, Barbara offered to go with me!

The hospital was crowded, a lot of people there for misc. reasons, none of which I cared to ask. The lady at the front desk, probably only understanding half of what I told her, sent me to orthopedics. Why?? I told her that I just needed a general practitioner, not a specialist, but she insisted. Only to find out that the wait time was 1.5 hours....I DON'T THINK SO! I was later taken to the ER, wait time ZERO! I was taken care of within minutes! Because of all the dirt, sand, and grime here, the blister had become infected. So, between the pain of bashing my toes into what felt like cement and an infected wound, I felt like I was about to lose my foot. Tender to the touch, cleaning and bandaging my foot was like driving a knife through my leg. The doctor was lucky I didn't kick him in the face with my other foot.

Bandage on, three prescriptions, and a note to stay off my foot for two days....WE WERE OFF!

I have enjoyed the past two days....relaxing, sleeping...watching TV....etc. Back to reality, as I will go hobbling into work again tomorrow. Thank goodness for the short week!

Thanks to my wonderful friend Barbara, who without her, I probably wouldn't have gone to see a doctor.

Overall experience, things were pleasant. Although I hope I don't every have to make another trip, it isn't as horrible as I had imagined. Things were taken care of and I feel better.

Until then, I hobble around, bandage intact and medications to kill....

To be or not to be.....

At the risk of sounding about 40 years older than I really am, WHAT HAS THE WORLD COME TO?? I am starting to sound like my Papa, who at the great age of 90 passed away, bewildered at what the world was like. My father, constantly amazed at the stupidity of people. And alike, I wonder the same thing!

I left the United States in August 2010, after a serious mind game of whether or not teaching was the right route for me. After beating myself up, teaching won, but I was going to take a different approach....I was going to teach abroad! Better yet, I was going to teach in an Arab country, where Muslims are known for obedient children and intelligence. So, I packed my bags and left, with a new hope, a new dream, and an open mind. I figured, by taking this trip, I was going to renew my love for teaching, and what I do so well. In theory, I love the idea of being a teacher, what a teacher can do/offer, and all the creativity a teacher can have (not to mention the SEVEN years of college it took to get me that degree!). But, is it the right pathway?

I am based in Shahama, a small town on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi; it is the halfway point between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Every morning, I wake up at 5:00, leave by 6:00, pick up three other co-workers, and off we go on our 25 minute ride.

The 25 minute car ride is quite comical...it is actually my saving grace for my own sanity. I don't know what I would do without my co-workers and all of our laughs.

Saundra- probably one of the funniest people on Earth. She has a good attitude about everything, even when she is down. She has a quick wit to her, and can turn ANYTHING into something funny. I must say, she gets me through the day.

Leafy- she is small, meek, and quite. She gets a good laugh from Saundra too....a small giggle. Doesn't have too much to say, just enough....sits back and enjoys the ride.

Elaine- I sometimes think she is from a different planet. Funny, but where she gets some of her thoughts, I just don't know.

But, between Saundra and Elaine, we have four tickets straight to "Funny-Ville."

During my interview, I had specifically asked to be put in a boys school. Back home, in the United States, I had always related better to boys. I figure it is the nurturing part of my personality, so I thought it would be the same.


MISTAKE #1: Being put in a boys school!

In this country, no female should be in a boy's school, only males. From an early age, they [boys] are taught that they are MEN....they can do no wrong. They are the chosen ones, for they will carry the family name, carry the family money, etc.

MISTAKE #2: Not asking to be in a private or international school.

Ibn Sina (my school) is a government school, affiliated with a British provider. They are being re-structured based on the guidelines used in Britain, Australia, and the US. Therefore, since this program is new, so are the concepts of school. (FACT OF THE DAY: as of 30 years ago, the UAE didn't have schools. They would sit under trees and read the Qur'an, their holy book).

So, here we are, three weeks into the new school year. I feel like a new teacher, all over again, multiplied by 150. I feel like the worst teacher on the face of this earth, as if I can't do anything right, yet am working until 2:00 am. I work until the wee hours of the night, for what? The kids don't appreciate my lesson plans, so why should I?

What I thought I had mastered, classroom management, it has gone down the drain here.

The kids are OUT OF CONTROL! They have no respect for classrooms, books, supplies, teachers, their school, etc. They spit (anywhere and everywhere, even on teachers), they fight (NON-STOP....this is the most violent group of children I have ever seen), they are rude, don't follow directions, don't EVER SHUT UP, are illiterate (in both/all languages), are lazy, have lack of discipline multiplied by 250 (in fact, I don't think the word discipline is in the Arab dictionary), systems and processes don't exist here....to sum it up, NOTHING goes right! I have lost all morals as a teacher, turning my back to problems that I would NEVER not fix...just because here, they are normal. The fact that I have to scream and yell, most of my day, because that is the only way to get these kids to shut up. I feel like I am working in a zoo!

For the lack of better phrases, I HATE my life here between the hours of 7:00 am to 1:30 pm, Sunday through Thursday. Any time out of that range, I LOVE it here! I can't think of a better place to be.

Moral of this story, all of the problems that I used to gripe about back home and how lazy I thought American kids were, I would trade all of that in a heartbeat! I would take ANY problem or child from the last 4 years of my teaching, instead of what I am faced with now. I am sorry for all of the bad things I said about teaching in America, all of my complaints toward administration, and all of the students I griped about. (And to my fellow teacher friends, count your blessings, because it COULD be worse!)

So, through all of this, I have decided...

I AM a good teacher! I do the job well and love kids, but teaching is not the pathway I am meant to be on. I don't know what my pathway is supposed to be, but I am really working toward the nursing/hospital administration field. It is going to be a struggle, and I don't know how I am going to get there, but where there is a WILL, there is a WAY.

New living quarters

Well, the time has come!! My stay in the Intercontinental, 5 star treatment, buffet style breakfast, valet parking, and service at any time has finally come to an end!!

Barbara and I picked up our keys to the new apartment on Thursday.....we spent all day Friday cleaning, and will start moving things in this week and next weekend.


More pictures to come, as soon as we move in and have furniture!!

Catch(her) in the Rye

One of the main reasons for pursuing this job opportunity was the EXPERIENCE this trip would allow for me. And guess what, there hasn't been a day since setting foot on UAE soil that I haven't experienced something new, outrageous, complicated, exciting, different, strange, and just plain abnormal.

Barbara and I went to the mall the other day, to get a bite to eat. Nothing out of the ordinary....a trip to the food court or one of the MANY cafes around the mall. As I am sitting there, enjoying my chicken pasta, a good conversation, and company of a good friend, there is a sudden burst of anger from behind me. There, in the middle of the mall, were two groups of guys....yelling at each other (in Arabic) and beginning the start of a fight. After a short acceleration and choice words, the groups went their separate ways. What just happened???

With a look of confusion, as it is normally plastered to my face, Barbara said, "There goes the Emirati style of dating for you....watch...."

So, being the people watcher that I am, the next 10 minutes of my life was spent observing....the life of an Emirati and dating.

Mind you, I said I was here for the experience. The experiences here are like no other, and very different to what I am accustomed to, but that is why I am here. So, here goes, "Emirati Dating:101"


Around 3:30 in the afternoon, this marks the prime time for the Emirati girls to visit the malls, to walk, shop, etc. Dressed in the typical worn abaya, sheila around the head/hair, and high heels (some so high, I think I would kill myself trying to walk in them)....these girls cruise up and down the mall; in and out of shops, up the escalator stairs, and to the food court they go. You would expect nothing less of a female, right?

The Emirati boys, dressed in their typical worn white kandora and saturated with some of the best smelling colognes, in the words of Jersey Shore, they start their "creeping." They follow the Emirati girls, in and out of shops, up the escalator stairs, and to the food court. They will follow behind them, just enough distance between them, but will follow. Some will actually approach one of the ladies, chat a bit, but mostly just follow.

Now, one of the really cool things about this process is the visual aspect. Based on the females choice, some ladies cover more than others. So, there are ladies that just cover their hair or there are ladies that cover their entire face. So, this Emirati dating game is quite interesting, because the guys don't always know what the girls look like. In fact, the more covered the female is, the more guys follow her.

The other side to this, are the girls that cover just their hair. Some ladies go the natural look and are quite beautiful, but then, there are those that dress like the Emirati version of Barbie...they have so much makeup plastered to their faces, you just don't know what to think.

In the eyes of the viewer, none of this would really look abnormal. It simply looks like a cluster of girlfriends going to the mall together, for fun. Then, of course, you have a group of guys, with their buddies, going to the mall. It is all about first, who you know that can tell you this stuff. But also, watching each of the guys and their "stroll" (walk), the distance they leave behind the group of girls, and finally- the funniest part of this process, how the guys hang around the group of girls when they enter a store. The boys will linger, pace back and forth, waiting for the girls to exit the store, in order to continue following.

Best part for the females...if the girl isn't interested, they simply call their driver or someone to come get them.....they will sit and wait, until they are fetched. Like a dog, tail tucked and dragging to the floor, the boys walk on and find another group.

So, who will eventually catch her?

Airing Out My Dirty Laundry

I have now been in Abu Dhabi for a month now....hard to believe! I have experienced and seen so much, in so little time, I almost don't know what to do with myself.

Peering out of my 15th floor hotel window (STILL!), straight shot to the Arabian Gulf, you wouldn't dream of hearing a complaint from me....or would you?

Thinking back to my arrival, I couldn't wait to live the "high" life, and boy have we ever! FIVE star hotel, service, food, bedding, etc. and being water front, you couldn't think of a better vacation, (clear throat) I mean, job location. I can't remember the last time I carried anything (laundry, groceries, anything heavy) to my own room...that is right, it is done for me. My car, it is parked for me. Oh, did I mention, my breakfast is a gourmet BUFFET, with more food than even the starving children in Ethiopia could eat, but nonetheless- absolutely WONDERFUL! Who wouldn't want this life!?!?

Well, it is trips to the local grocery stores (Spinneys) or a drive around town in hunt of a laundry place. Isn't it funny, sad really, how much we take the small things in life for granted. Something as simple as a washing machine. I <3 my washing machine, and have never missed something so MUCH! Especially when it comes down to really, literally, "airing out your dirty laundry." So, you walk into the laundry place, where you hand them your bags. Atop the counter, your goods are dumped out, and counted. Not secretly counted, but underwear is thrown in different directions, tops, bottoms, etc....nothing secret about your laundry...in fact, "Victoria's secret" is out of the bag!

Oh, don't let me forget, those small washings we do in the bathtub, with liquid detergent. You walk in to everyone's hotel bathroom, clothes are hung from top to bottom...drying.

Need I not forget, good ol' home cooking! You might think all those delicious dishes I keep posting look good, well, try eating them for a month! The value I would put on my own kitchen, stove, refrigerator, etc. = PRICELESS!! The night we get those keys to this new apartment we have been "approved" for, I vouch to sleep on top of the kitchen counters- granite and all.

Life, abode a five star hotel in the one and only Abu Dhabi, doesn't carry many complaints....I mean, look at my pictures! Life here is good, great actually. But, lesson learned here, remember all those things we take for granted. You never know when you aren't going to have them, and REALLY REALLY want them.

So, farewell to my last night of vacation...for school starts tomorrow (Tuesday Sept. 14- staff development) and the kiddos come on Wed. Sept. 15th. My list of things to do gets longer, and guess what is on top:

LAUNDRY

The Hustle and Bustle

I sit here, peering out from my 15th floor window of the Intercontinental Hotel in complete awe and disbelief. I haven't quite grasped the fact that I really am here, in a foreign country, to live and work for the next two years of my life. I have this repeating thought that I am simply on vacation. I am living in a 5-star hotel, serviced with daily room cleaning, valet parking, and buffet style breakfast every morning (absolutely to die for). Who wouldn't forget that a job is soon to come? This experience, as I have said before, has been like a dream...nothing but positive things to say.

I started driving this last week...I was scared to death! I must say, I feel like a human again, being able to drive! Driving in the UAE is a rare form; these Emiratis are absolute maniacs when it comes to driving, so every car ride is an experience all in its own. Things are going well, as I have been driving to and from work all week. I wouldn't call myself a pro, yet. Thank goodness for Garmin Nuvi....he is my best friend!

As I have said before, I think this job/move was the best decision I am yet to make in my life. I have a 45 minute commute to and from work, so it gives me time to sit and think, which I have been doing quite a bit of.

I ponder the meaning of lost, as I get lost every afternoon driving in from Al Shahama, and what an excellent learning experience such a negative word creates. Getting lost in the car coming home from work, only barely brushes the story of my life- past, present, and future.

I am lost...

* longing for a new career in the States. As many of you know, and I have said before, I won't be returning to the States for a teaching job. Instead, my plan is to go back to school, and complete my nursing degree and master's in hospital administration; something that should have been done long ago, even from the beginning.

* longing for religion and faith. Being in Abu Dhabi, I am immersed in a Muslim rich environment, no one can escape from because it is in every aspect of your own life. Prayer call is five times a day, called from speaker systems all over the country....you can hear it from anywhere you are. Amazingly, it isn't annoying; it is actually quite serene. I catch myself saying a small prayer of my own, when I hear it. Really, it makes you come to grips with your own religion.

The outfit of a Muslim- Kandora (for men) and the abaya and sheila (for women)are the typical attire here. As many of you have seen, I even wear them for work and when visiting mosques. Up until my trip, and asking a friend of mine 50 million questions, I didn't get it. For women, it is the exact opposite of what people think, especially Americans. Women wear the abaya, sheila, burka, hijab (whatever their choice) as a devotion to Allah (God), their purity for a future husband, and as a personal choice. The thought is, no other man should see another man's wife; contrary, a man, technically, doesn't see his wife until marriage. In turn, this eliminates the straying from a marriage. Is it a little on the extreme side? Sure, maybe to most, but from the words of an Emirati local, marriage is then viewed differently...you are actually working on the marriage together, as you are getting to know each other (many marriages are arranged here). Contrary to the most popular belief, the typical Muslim outfit for women is not about shunning the females, to belittle them, or lack of self confidence. It is actually quite the opposite! Women here are treated quite well...(I know, most of you are gasping at the fact that I have just said that) but you have to experience it to know the real truth.

Fasting- During the holy month of Ramadan, fasting is from sunrise to sunset. As a Muslim, you may not eat or drink anything, including water, gum, candy, etc. This was a struggle when I first arrived. Because of Ramadan, lunch typically isn't in the schedule. If you are lucky, you can pop into a grocery store or grab takeaway and go back to your hotel room, but for the most part, you also end up fasting. Obviously giving something up for a religious reason is something big; it gives you a greater appreciation for things. In simpler terms, I have NEVER loved water as much as I LOVE water now! Definitely gives you a greater appreciation for the smaller things in life.

Patience- I never really stopped to think about how fast paced my life always was. You set your mind to do something, and it usually gets done within the time period that you want. Here, things don't work like that. I swear, it is as if we have our own clock over here. I will simply refer to it as, "Arab time."

Arab time happens when Arab time happens. When in a car, you are in a rush to get to no where. Everything else...."inshallah"- it will happen when it happens. There are no immediate answers, just maybes. "Don't worry, it will be okay" has become a popular one. No one is in a rush, there aren't many deadlines, and you are lucky that people even show up to work. :) Being thrown into this, immediately, has had a huge impact...I almost don't know what to do with myself! I don't have a classroom yet, which means my classroom isn't decorated or ready, I don't know my curriculum or what to do for the first day, but you know, "inshallah"- everything will be okay. Oddly enough, I am not all that worried about it...strange I know, coming from someone that should be medicated for obsessive compulsive disorder! being here has been quite relaxing and has taught a great lesson...ENJOY life while you can!

True Beauty- Having been here for a little over three weeks and during the holy month of Ramadan, I am yet to experience the true beauty of the UAE/Abu Dhabi. Although all that I have seen and done has been great, I believe there to be so much more. I think there are even more treats coming my way, and I can't wait!

So, until then, the hustle and bustle is about to begin. We found out that Eid is starting Wednesday Sept 8th, which means the end to Ramadan (things get crazy for the next 7 days, off from work), school starts on Sept. 15th, I will be moving into my new apartment soon, and my mini-vacation will slow down (note, I didn't say end!!). A lot to come, in so few days!

"Peace" of Mind

You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.
Dale Carnegie

Coming to a foreign country can be a scary thing...the unknown factor is a big part of it. Likewise, you have other factors, those of which cause an American to crawl out of their skin, that make adjusting to a country even harder. For me personally, the biggest frustration is the language barrier....again, the unknown factor...not knowing what the people surrounding you are saying, not being able to chime in to any conversation, the need to have things translated, etc. But, peace of mind sets in, as I am trying to pick up the language and learn. Hey, at least I am trying, right?

Making the decision to come here was the best thing that could have happened to me. If you know me well enough, you should know that I LOVE traveling, culture, new things/food, experiences/journeys, new friends, and learning. But,one thing interfering with the positive experience = negative views, media, and articles about those of the Middle East.

The American society, as a whole, create the negative tension between other countries of the world. Not necessarily on purpose, we tend to believe the negative stereotypes of other cultures...ESPECIALLY those of Middle Easterners, Muslims, and their culture. As a result, when I told friends and family about my plan to come over to the UAE, not all responses were positive. Although I do take great caution in what I do and say, I respect their traditions, and their religious beliefs (even though I may not agree) I have come to really love this culture and the people in it. I have decided to go against the odds that:

- they don't want me in their country/cultural traditions
- they will treat me horrible
- I will not be respected

Will I get these things from everyone, absolutely not. But, what I do love, is the fact that I have been welcomed by so many. I have been treated very nicely, and even made a few new friends.

Last week, I was introduced to a local Arab; he is a friend to another teacher. My first night meeting him, I was completely drawn to everything he had to say. White kandora in attire, he represents the typical picture of a Muslim. He shook my hand in greeting, looked me in the eye, held a conversation with me, answered/asked me questions....all things that go against what the typical Muslim would do to an American. As the night grew longer, we ended up having a terrific night....hanging out with him, and I even got my own personal tour of Abu Dhabi. Better yet, I was able to ask him questions about his religion and culture that I wanted to know. At the end of the night, "hey, if you ever need anything, just call me."

As the week has drawn to an end, I have a new perspective. We focus on all the negatives, instead of giving the benefit of the doubt. Instead of learning(even if you don't want to/aren't interested) about the differences that we have from people and how we can turn that into a greatness, we focus on how we can hate the differences. I have immersed myself in a culture that has been accused, viewed in a negative light, and slammed...and we wonder why they "hate" Americans? I am in a country where I have very few rights, I am taking the job of fellow Muslims, and many things are unknown.

However, what I do know is:

I have made a great "local" friend, one who has welcomed me into his culture and country. He answers any question, open and willing.

He represents his culture and religion very well.

I will be able to come back to the States with a better understanding and allow fellow Americans to know, it isn't as negative as the media makes it.

In all reality, this is a great place to be....very safe, comfortable, and fun.

21 hours, new friends, and a journey...

Sat. August 14, 2010
9:30am, Austin, Texas

I was awakened no later than 8:00 am, got ready, and added the last minute things to my suitcase.

My dad ran up to the local Taco Cabana to grab breakfast tacos...yummy!

We no sooner loaded up the car and left, around 9:40am.

My parents were dropping me off at the airport, and since it is halfway out to the farm, they also had the car loaded so they could go straight to Flatonia. The car was loaded to the max....

3 dogs, my parents belongings to take out to the farm, pulling a trailer of barbed wire, fencing, and a cow feeder....my luggage was tied to the end of the trailer.

I gathered my luggage at the Airport curb, hugged my dad goodbye, kissed my puppies for the last time, and headed inside with my mom. We waited in line, for what seemed forever. Of course, one of my bags was 4 lbs over, and so i had to remove two pounds or pay $200.00. So, in the middle of the airport, I am frantically pulling things out of my suitcase to give my mother (which she will need to ship to me). I was eventually checked in, hugged my mom goodbye, and off I went.

While sitting and waiting for my flight, I met a husband (Jason), his wife Dee, and then Dee's father Azlan. Jason is a teacher, and had the same flight schedule as I did. Thank goodness...I had some travel buddies!

First flight
12:25 pm
Austin to Chicago
United Airlines Express

I think this was the smallest plane I have ever been on, in my life! It was terrible! I felt like a salted and packed sardine!

Sitting next to me was a man from Vermont, that lives in Austin part-time also. He owns a beautiful, I mean BEAUTIFUL home in Vermont (he showed me pictures) that he lives in part time, when he isn't in Cedar Park in his apartment. He was just a simple business man, on his way back home for a couple of weeks. We talked the whole time...he was very interested in my travel...wanted to know lots of details of which I couldn't really tell him. So, the conversation made the flight a lot easier and faster.


Arrival to Chicago

Thank goodness I had met Jason and Dee....I don't think I could have navigated through the Chicago airport alone...it was HUGE! We had a hard time finding our way to the international terminals. It was a long walk, lots of asking, and lots of wandering. Once we had arrived to terminal 5E (through walking, shuttle, and more walking) and checked in, this was the last stop we had to grab a bite to eat. By the time we got to our terminal, waited in line for food, and ate....we were pretty pressed for time. We immediately headed for our gate and waited for a little while. This was the HUB for teachers....we met several teachers and families that were Abu Dhabi bound.


Second flight- 8:30 pm
Chicago to Abu Dhabi
Etihad Airways

Where to start! The plane was of course, as lavish as a plane could be. Each person had their own personal TV that they controlled. You could play video games, watch movies, just about anything.

I had a window seat, which is what I wanted. I could see out, which was nice. My seat mate, a guy from India, was SUPER nice. He was very funny....your usual funny guy! He was a big help, in getting me through the plane ride, explaining everything to me, etc.

This was, by far, the LONGEST flight ever!! It didn't seem like we would ever get to the UAE! However, overall, it was a great flight. The people were very nice and helpful, decent food...in fact, I felt like that is all I did was eat. :) It was a pretty smooth flight. I didn't sleep much, maybe 2 hours max....I just can't sleep on planes. So, you can only imagine how tired I was.


Landing in Abu Dhabi
Sunday August 15th, 8:30 pm

I never thought this time would come! But, we finally landed and exited from the plane. Out of the terminal, there were ADEC representatives waiting for us. From there, they walked us through customs/immigrations to our eye exams. This was STRANGE!! They take your passport to scan it, and then take a picture of the pupil of your eye...strange! Then, off to baggage claim, where the 41 teachers each had help getting their luggage...I didn't even have to touch my own luggage!

As we walked out of the airport, there were more ADEC representatives waiting for us, and they handed us a freshly cut rose.

We were then escorted to our bus, which would take us to our hotel. We arrived at 9:30/10:00 pm, immediately stepped off the bus and were greeted with a warm, lemon scented towel that felt wonderful on your face (keep in mind, we had been on a plane for 21+ hours) and then a glass of mango juice...to die for. It was so fresh and yummy...nothing like in the states.

We each labeled our luggage, so that it could be delivered to our room, which is lavish in itself. Our beds are made every morning and turned down for us in the evening. Bottled water is supplied free, fresh fruit, and dates (I haven't worked up enough courage to try these).

Being so late, and having orientation the next morning, the bed was calling my name. A plush bed, feather comforter and pillows, I felt as though I was sleeping on top of a cloud. I can't remember the last time I slept so well.

Everyone is very welcoming here and accommodating. I feel like a princess....served and given everything/anything. The Arabs def. have high standards...from airlines, to hotels, to buildings, and cars. One major frustration so far, not knowing the language! As with an foreign trip of mine, communication is hard. Everything is in English....they all pretty much speak English, but the mere fact that I CAN'T understand what they are saying = irritating. But, it is a reality and I have to deal with it.

The Experience of a LIFETIME, now or later?

I am sitting here, 4 days, 22 hours, 24 minutes until the life-changing moment in my life. I pick up my bags (light blue square boxes that I have been living out of for the past 5 months) and head to an area of the world that I didn't dream I would ever be able to see.

I keep saying, "experience of a lifetime, soon to begin" but in all reality, has the experience already started?

You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.' You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
Eleanor Roosevelt

I would like to think that I am looking fear in the face, and at that, I am telling it to buzz off. I mean REALLY, how many of you would jump on a plane, alone, and fly to a foreign piece of earth? So, in the GREAT words of Eleanor Roosevelt, I am going to get on that plane, and experience the world, that I once thought was impossible.

Experience is a funny thing….I only thought getting to Abu Dhabi was the experience! Well, I am starting to rethink that!

I had let go of a job, a job that had become quite comfortable after four years. I figured after accepting this new job, I would have a summer of leisure…..a summer of relaxation, research of the new place, and goodbyes.

Relaxation? HAHA…there would be NONE of that my friends....follow along as I track my summer of leisure: (clear throat)

1. I resigned my position of 6th grade World Cultures Teacher and Team Leader during the month of May. By this time, I had checked out....I had a new dream in mind, excitement of the new place, and plenty of things to do to get ready. June 4th (last day of school) couldn't have come FAST enough. Although, I had built great relationships with the people at work, so telling them I was leaving was really hard!

2. Accepting this new job meant that I had to renew my passport! (Grab a drink of water, this could take a while)

Passport...P-A-S-S-P-O-R-T....hmmm, I have now come to hate this word. And for the next TEN years, I will not have to face the ladies and gentlemen that so gladly renew these for us. I had left school early, one marvelous day in May, as I was going to visit the local post office to renew my passport. Mind you, I already had one, it was expired. I had also printed out the necessary paper work, online, and filled it out. All I had to do, contrary to my belief, was hand it in. So, I get there, an hour to spare. (Sign read: Passport Hours 9:00am-4:00pm)

I gingerly open the door, only to be greeted with a blank stare (as if I had done something wrong) and a menacing “we are no longer open today; you need to come back tomorrow morning.” I simply reminded him that his hours of service sign stated 4:00 pm and I still had an hour, therefore I would wait. I also let him know, that like him, I also had a job.

Long story short, I had a very brief run in with the manager of the post office, before storming out, letting him know what a poor job he was doing running the place and how sorry it was that they would treat people the way they did. I didn’t get my passport that day.

The next morning, Saturday, I was the first in line at 7:00 am to talk to a different passport agency. Only to inform me, I had to make an appointment and they were 3 months out. But, I could go downtown if I felt lucky.

Lucky….well, I had nothing left. I had given 100% of my time to getting this passport elsewhere. I had just about gone postal in the post office, awakened WAY before my time on a Saturday morning, and I was out of ideas.

In my Mazda I go…all the way downtown only to wait in line for FOUR and A HALF HOURS to renew my passport. Since I didn’t have an appointment, it was a if they got to you basis….I was of the last 10 people they took that day.

Progress isn't made by early risers. It's made by lazy men trying to find easier ways to do something.

Let me tell you, our USPS couldn’t move at a slower time, no worry in the world, and not a feeling of remorse! Something is wrong with this picture….a line of 1000’s, out the door, and 2 employees…1 of which puts the closed window sign up so she can sort through denied mail. I don’t get it!

Wasn't it the governments idea that we should all have one? If they want us to have a passport, why don't they make it an easier process?

3. Packing and renting my house. So packing up your life is never easy. But then to put a weight on it...yikes! I am packing TWO years of my life in TWO suitcases, and they can't be over 50 pounds. Okay, hello...I am female, I feel the need to pack the "just in case", "I know I need it", and the "I just gotta take this." Well, as you can imagine, both if those light blue boxes I referred to eariler = WAY over the weight limit! :(

I will be spending the next 4 days packing, repacking, and more packing.

Rental of the house = not happened yet!

Oh, have I talked about STRESS??

Stress will now cover # 4 through #100!!

What do I have to be stressed about? Well, nothing, I suppose, if you have found the following 45 minutes of muttering amusing.....silly and waste of time....senseless, etc.

Stressors:

When will my house rent?
Are the renters going to be nice to MY house?
Are my dogs going to run away, trying to find me?
Are my dogs going to forget who I am?
Are my friends and family members going to forget who I am?

Those are just a few to name.

Lastly, just to add to this "experience of a lifetime"...

I get a phone call this morning (August 9, 2010) from a new friend of mine to inform me that our flights are not listed as being international, and to keep from being charged for the extra baggage, I need to call the airlines.

hmmm...WHAT???

I called. Since it is not a connecting flight, I am not categorized as international, therefore, I will need to show my itinerary when I get there....I will need to go find my luggage in Chicago, carry it to check in again, and make sure it gets checked in for the rest of the flight to Abu Dhabi. Then, a 14 hour flight to Abu Dhabi.

New adventures and experiences here I come!! I am happy to be doing this...I can't wait, this is going to be GREAT!

I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances.
Martha Washington

I am leaving, on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again....

Well, the time is here!! I have FINALLY received my departure date for the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi!

I will be leaving SATURDAY AUGUST 14th!! I am so excited, I just can't begin to imagine what all is in store for me for the next two years!!

UAE Going Away Party

The time has arrived where the good-byes are needed. Although this new adventure in my life hasn't hit as a reality yet, it IS right around the corner. I look at the packed suitcases in the living room, my "dresser" that once held my clothes is now a cardboard box, and I don't have a car....my life is at the mercy of everyone else and in a suitcase.

My friends and family gathered on Sat. July 31st @ 7:00 to say their goodbyes....bid me farewell and best of luck...and reveled over old memories. Conversations were alive, we were recreating old times, and doing what we do best: continue our friendships, our bonds, and cherish each other's company. I love my friends and family!

So, I sit and await my actual departure date (within the next 10 days if you can believe that)! I have said my good-byes to the best of my ability, for now.

Remember, I WILL be back! I will be on a two year journey, trip of a lifetime, and great learning experience for myself. I will come back with stories to share, things to teach, and advice on places to go. :)

Good bye to all of my friends and family....I love you all dearly. Keep in touch and be sure to follow this amazing journey around the world with me!

Bags are packed and I am ready to go....

I have successfully packed TWO YEARS worth of stuff into my suitcases. I don't feel like I have EVERYTHING, but the weight of the suitcases tells me I have PLENTY! I will find out sooner than later, just how prepared I am. :)

I don't have my departure date yet, but the emails are flowing and we are getting close! My latest email recieved from ADEC informs me that a departure date is just around the corner! It states:

Documentation Progress
Security Clearance - Security clearance has been granted
Travel Form Data - Travel form data has been successfully collected
Visa Approval - Visa approval is in progress
Flight Status - Ticket not yet booked



Contract Information
Status - Accepted (as per communications with your recruitment company)
Location of Contract - Signed contract received (as per our “hard copy” files)

The current departure dates that are planned are:

August 8th
August 15th
August 22nd
August 25th

Keep your fingers crossed that I am the August 8th group!!! I want as much time as possible to get adjusted and figure things out! :)

Travel Documents

Well, I opened up my email this morning (around 8:30 am) to find that the Abu Dhabi Education Council had sent the documents for work/resident VISAS!!!

The form has been filled out and sent since 1:00 this afternoon.

This means that my departure date is soon to come!! :)

I will keep you all posted.

Picking up the Pieces

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am about my new journey. I am going to be able to see areas of the world that I NEVER thought I would see.

As a teacher, I knew that I wasn't going to be able to become a "world" traveler on my salary, so this job will allow me the opportunity to fulfill my dreams of seeing the world and seeing new things. This is an opportunity of a lifetime, that I couldn't resist....

With this journey, I have to detach from certain belongings and take BIG steps to learning how to leave behind the people and things that I love.

First and foremost,

My family and friends:

I love them and love that they are being so supportive! I hate that Dubai is so far away, but it is. They always say, " those that stick with you through the rough, the easy, and the different, are those of true friendship." This is a LONG way to continue being apart of a family, continuing a friendship, or a member of a BUNCO group, but I willl be back. Stick with me through this journey....stay in touch, keep being supportive, etc. I will come back to you....probably far more improved, a better person, and with so many cool stories!

My pets:

My parents have agreed to take and care for my 2 dogs and 1 cat for the two years that I am gone. I can't begin to express how grateful I am, as I know TWO dogs and a cat are a lot to handle....ecspecially my shar-pei, Ninna. I know they will grow to love my three treasures as much as I do! I couldn't think of two better people to take them.

My home:

As many of you know, I just recently bought a home (a year ago). I have put a huge amount of blood, tears, sweat, and hard work into this home. It is my pride and joy (aside from my family, friends, and pets) and have enjoyed seeing the progress I have made. Well, the home is on the market for lease. I am fearful of this, and I hope that I am proven wrong. Feel free to drive by when you are in the neighborhood and check on it! :)

So, here we are.....the room-mate has moved out, a POD is sitting in my driveway, and I am boxing/packing up my belongings to move out. My bags will be packed within the next couple of weeks and I will be ready to go!

The Start of all the NEW adventures

After a lot of consideration and thinking, I wanted to change my career. So, I started taking classes to fulfill the rest of my nursing requirements the summer of 2009, which I have almost completed. Little did I know, I would be making an even bigger change!

Technology is an amazing thing! I have become addicted (along with so many others) to Itunes, Facebook, craigslist, email, Iphones, IPODS, flatscreen tvs, etc. Visits to craigslist has become a frequent hobby of mine; you can find some AWESOME things on there! As they say, "one man's trash is another man's treasure." (so true!) Amongst the furniture I was viewing, the biggest change of my life/career was to appear....that is right....the new part of my life was a click away!

I had clicked the job details, for 2010 teachers in the UAE. I read, read, and read......clicked the X to close....this would NEVER work, my family would think I was NUTS! Low and behold, my father would send me to the same craigslist ad the following morning.

Half heartedly, I think he was kidding, but has undoubtedly become proud of the decision I am making. After thinking about it endlessly, I decided to apply, what would that hurt? Knowing I wouldn't get the job, since I was ONE of 900 that they were going to hire world wide, I hit the send button....across the web my application went.

It was days later that I would be signed up for a telephone interview that following Saturday. After two telephone interviews, you would find out if you would make it, for the final personal interview. As you can guess by now, I made it all the way through. :)

My mother and I took a trip to Dallas, where I would interview with the Abu Dhabi Education Council. Now, you think interviewing with fellow Americans is nerve racking? Well, try interviewing with a group of individuals that have COMPLETELY different views, languages, views, etc. EVERYTHING that we do in America that isn't offensive, IS offensive to them. I spend days on end GOOGLE-ing "how to interview with Arabs/Muslims", "being female in a Muslim community", etc. I was confident that I wasn't going to offend these people!

If you are still reading, you can only guess, I got through the interview, obviously didn't offend anyone, and was OFFERED the job!!

March 10th- this was the start of a GRUELING process.

Filling out applications, security forms, waiting in line for FOUR hours for a passport renewal, etc.

But, long story short, here we are today.....With passport in hand, international driver's license, brand new luggage, and a POD sitting in my driveway.....I need my bags packed by the end of July and I am off!

So, stick with me and I will take you through the journey of a new place, new people, new culture, new experiences, and a new job. :)