tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62028370859169251882024-03-20T04:14:30.166-07:00Hello DubaiRyannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-42863427803498856562013-01-01T00:04:00.001-08:002013-01-01T00:04:14.267-08:00Al Dhafra Camel Festival <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
December 23 </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Another really incredible thing we did
while on break was head to the Al Dhafra Camel Festival. This is a
huge festival held every year in what is called the Western Region of
the Emirate, basically the area in the west that is less built up.
The festival lasts for a week and consists of camel and dog races,
falcon competitions, a beautiful camel contest, souqs, food, and
more. It took us about three hours to drive out, and we decided to go
on a Sunday so that it would be less crowded (Sunday is a weekday
here). When we arrived we felt a bit lost. It was huge, and spread
out over a lot of the desert. Luckily, a nice guy (George) saw us
wandering around and took us under his wing. He was from Italy, but
worked in Abu Dhabi and was asked to help with the tourist at the
festival. He told us he was heading to lunch and so we hopped in his
car to tag along. George was staying at one of the camps set up in
the desert and took us over the the camp tents for lunch. We were
invited into the tent, after taking off our shoes, and sat around a
huge spread of food. I felt a little invasive at first because there
were all men, but they all made us feel welcome. It was a traditional
Emirati spread with rice, goat, fish, and salad. We all ate with our
hands, and enjoyed being a part of the culture. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUYO9RHIfY59mlxc8LJqXzHcHBqTEfz18DS7yYU1QGJIpgk6Fi5eijbW6HXHyuBQX4tncK5KtJJhheon7cFubeHV3biwhPF2m-46kjC5LGSOJ3-THBcQY2j4JsJTShoGwqnHkd4uCt-wo/s1600/547504_941259097243_1778375477_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUYO9RHIfY59mlxc8LJqXzHcHBqTEfz18DS7yYU1QGJIpgk6Fi5eijbW6HXHyuBQX4tncK5KtJJhheon7cFubeHV3biwhPF2m-46kjC5LGSOJ3-THBcQY2j4JsJTShoGwqnHkd4uCt-wo/s320/547504_941259097243_1778375477_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Flyer </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev891pwnOFzlNc8C4TSPLr280dJngeSjLs072Rz8a3zHRWHYwhOCqdnII0JsEyvOyQo0o2MhVThXMjMl_LxNkMRmBo_C-dOpXXlJOQfxiG1SefzkytU7QP99dxw8j-E3NiaZWekQUZGm9/s1600/148602_941259112213_942400497_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev891pwnOFzlNc8C4TSPLr280dJngeSjLs072Rz8a3zHRWHYwhOCqdnII0JsEyvOyQo0o2MhVThXMjMl_LxNkMRmBo_C-dOpXXlJOQfxiG1SefzkytU7QP99dxw8j-E3NiaZWekQUZGm9/s320/148602_941259112213_942400497_n.jpg" width="213" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lunch </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After lunch we were
brought to another tent for coffee and tea, as other men sat smoking
shisha. We enjoyed some conversation as the men told me to drink
camel milk for the baby, and then it was time to go see some camels.
The day before had been the big races, but there were beautiful camel
competitions everyday. George took us over to the camels that were
part of the competition for the day, and we got to walk around their
pens. We learned about how they are judged and even got to pet some
of them. They were curious about us and would rub their lips on our
hands. There were also some baby camels with their mothers, including
one that was only 2 days old. They reminded me of an ostrich with
their long necks and big heads.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzOqZv97IZddKflvIbnD-QKhYLR90jlA2R3GwidlHCSo7XmJBFDBYDhTBJRmSnFV3m9JhVN5RqdRMFbfUIGOAvLfXu9SaQwT0rexIWJ3RzPn6aNLZNGfX5C2by4BoB9XLDTs1NkZ14wdt/s1600/563714_941259361713_240733277_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzOqZv97IZddKflvIbnD-QKhYLR90jlA2R3GwidlHCSo7XmJBFDBYDhTBJRmSnFV3m9JhVN5RqdRMFbfUIGOAvLfXu9SaQwT0rexIWJ3RzPn6aNLZNGfX5C2by4BoB9XLDTs1NkZ14wdt/s320/563714_941259361713_240733277_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVN2DSdWb7wlKnORvvkDshhoQj24gFORfNxZTRLoXQcE_pGnTxwW1qwxlEXfftacHnx3yrxITlMZtU4dP9GofOUu_OkgJ97L64toTcwzqDqJ7PVQ5IGVAptrg3OmAdomHLbx6iKCLGR6is/s1600/28009_941259446543_1260177428_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVN2DSdWb7wlKnORvvkDshhoQj24gFORfNxZTRLoXQcE_pGnTxwW1qwxlEXfftacHnx3yrxITlMZtU4dP9GofOUu_OkgJ97L64toTcwzqDqJ7PVQ5IGVAptrg3OmAdomHLbx6iKCLGR6is/s320/28009_941259446543_1260177428_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_2ayAi_MdwL1fLrfKkWfHqDmszpcPh6lsBb0aH1RoZHudJu0ei6k_n3cJgBmY5cAgbW7mifEVq9J1jyp-WYxh_B4nO_hYjFqExfNkbiDo9yk82bssmI8JSeZsWRMqKqxcPixQ9sWCFiG/s1600/20689_941259167103_1181237349_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_2ayAi_MdwL1fLrfKkWfHqDmszpcPh6lsBb0aH1RoZHudJu0ei6k_n3cJgBmY5cAgbW7mifEVq9J1jyp-WYxh_B4nO_hYjFqExfNkbiDo9yk82bssmI8JSeZsWRMqKqxcPixQ9sWCFiG/s320/20689_941259167103_1181237349_n.jpg" width="213" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2 days old </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlFvccQ2Ad4MBbwBwEWLC_0zwY22tUQViEA7AmRDB8z8a46A3EssLMiYbg57PkDqGkrSAAftAN6tg79ZyOxTudCLT55DY65GpKFr5aJuhWzsrj6b_Uz7Zmmg75yFwa55u0pXODOltHW2S/s1600/10410_941259566303_319396451_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlFvccQ2Ad4MBbwBwEWLC_0zwY22tUQViEA7AmRDB8z8a46A3EssLMiYbg57PkDqGkrSAAftAN6tg79ZyOxTudCLT55DY65GpKFr5aJuhWzsrj6b_Uz7Zmmg75yFwa55u0pXODOltHW2S/s320/10410_941259566303_319396451_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After seeing the camels it was time
to announce the winner for the day. Once they do this, the camels are
paraded by the grandstand while a group of men dance. At first we
were standing on the side, but the camels were running by and some
were kicking, which made everyone nervous with me being so close. It
was nice the way the men wanted to protect me. George brought us up
to the VIP section and we watched the parades of camels from there,
receiving water from the workers. We learned about the prizes the
competitors receive. There are different groups of camels each day,
and then an overall winner on the last day. Most of the prizes are a
million dirhams... about $272,250. This is donated back to the
festival, as the people have already invested so much money in the
camels they don't think this is much. The winning camel can be sold
for around 5 million dirhams, or $1,361,250. There were also 198 new
SUVs to be handed out. We tried to ask if we could get one for
visiting.... haha.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JbHffUEnMjIz2xg420NNKJr0xixP_UXBNDDcUk7vY6zo5XX5_oMKN54k1oYRyxaFBDLII66qlXDN_iB53Oo72r9bEgICtx2QXdGf7kILEVSl3z3_Vwgm4-sT0vnnKiMXwNLnssoxNFml/s1600/537648_941259805823_1080872012_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JbHffUEnMjIz2xg420NNKJr0xixP_UXBNDDcUk7vY6zo5XX5_oMKN54k1oYRyxaFBDLII66qlXDN_iB53Oo72r9bEgICtx2QXdGf7kILEVSl3z3_Vwgm4-sT0vnnKiMXwNLnssoxNFml/s320/537648_941259805823_1080872012_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The winner </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd73PEDRBnJRepjstJmqP3Zvk2yIzX4RhfRcdcNxadtsDO9GQwcQa0jECjQQwNZ_ZD5xan_IFPSCOY0CRqBASftPZyp2E_HUaelhS2B4YFr0Yp9hSflC30pAUX-SwG_OefD0Fj29VEb6UB/s1600/200138_941259855723_1977072814_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd73PEDRBnJRepjstJmqP3Zvk2yIzX4RhfRcdcNxadtsDO9GQwcQa0jECjQQwNZ_ZD5xan_IFPSCOY0CRqBASftPZyp2E_HUaelhS2B4YFr0Yp9hSflC30pAUX-SwG_OefD0Fj29VEb6UB/s320/200138_941259855723_1977072814_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcliiWZ2xUeBxESj1t8fBMQv7KU89w29WSv2YrA2-i_pVkKrnhzjgiTmE7qrWmV6gvh2Bt1_G-sDacIFWDYE-7ZUFDB6cNjJ4mQA5Xdy3E8lh-smO92rkgDJbJRPCwXYlox6uP96op4ne/s1600/200024_941259925583_228544091_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcliiWZ2xUeBxESj1t8fBMQv7KU89w29WSv2YrA2-i_pVkKrnhzjgiTmE7qrWmV6gvh2Bt1_G-sDacIFWDYE-7ZUFDB6cNjJ4mQA5Xdy3E8lh-smO92rkgDJbJRPCwXYlox6uP96op4ne/s320/200024_941259925583_228544091_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After seeing the winners of the beautiful camels,
George took us out to the road where they sell camels. Hundreds of
people and camels lined the road, and people drove by looking out
their windows and getting out to see the stock. There was this one
massive male camel who towered over his handler. He was crazy big!!!
We also learned that camels are quite an investment. We saw some
camels and then were off for another adventure, to see the racing
camels.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2iWrMDGyqQfPO-wMX2M7p7oPw6SmjTa9D76XoxvpzBJIslA_z0LOUdSTkxz4OAA9vVwNnZfeGEHBG1zlksKKJhvj7lR0NIL5vrkNHIlLgYuYy542Sox_Z4xKg9fjiEiDaClrB3kCW6Kw/s1600/425695_941260135163_1746235759_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2iWrMDGyqQfPO-wMX2M7p7oPw6SmjTa9D76XoxvpzBJIslA_z0LOUdSTkxz4OAA9vVwNnZfeGEHBG1zlksKKJhvj7lR0NIL5vrkNHIlLgYuYy542Sox_Z4xKg9fjiEiDaClrB3kCW6Kw/s320/425695_941260135163_1746235759_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9lug96QsrsQyGDlSO3XRD_C0QWJXz0OWanPcNOUtC__W8Fm63vNCb67j2rnPUCR2Am7100dB4kEIG7WyJq9AMjomTPWcg9_W2nsAvjCiuQWGq9kMlFlRbi2zg8WG9jjTZH9KlsBRLnJp/s1600/3824_941259965503_923366526_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9lug96QsrsQyGDlSO3XRD_C0QWJXz0OWanPcNOUtC__W8Fm63vNCb67j2rnPUCR2Am7100dB4kEIG7WyJq9AMjomTPWcg9_W2nsAvjCiuQWGq9kMlFlRbi2zg8WG9jjTZH9KlsBRLnJp/s320/3824_941259965503_923366526_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Huge!!! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcobyEGqmsE4q4CMrszwfUHmBJj65iFm_OpE6VjJFW_Fg6ABtS5qM2FLTMCxlxaHEpf6hSRWAH9SbRHfFWLdO-LZJQ5xX02eptetpn55QldYolg-TD_Oj3vJ7SrI9BYbpfAUCJEaP0vuOa/s1600/184425_941260085263_1408584997_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcobyEGqmsE4q4CMrszwfUHmBJj65iFm_OpE6VjJFW_Fg6ABtS5qM2FLTMCxlxaHEpf6hSRWAH9SbRHfFWLdO-LZJQ5xX02eptetpn55QldYolg-TD_Oj3vJ7SrI9BYbpfAUCJEaP0vuOa/s320/184425_941260085263_1408584997_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
George took us to a different part of the camps where they
train the racing camels, and we learned about the differences between
how they are raised and trained. After awhile it was time to leave as
we had a three hour car ride home. We said goodbye and thank you to
George and headed out. It was an amazing experience and I am so glad
we made the drive out there! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGWKl8q9AB1HBCMUNlpErhOoH873wjf0ha8VW5_whhnShBTyhkrMyRatjhzuwAhGK6KlbsY9EUQnxOOJy3kIcr_PWwvTopnsOxBoP9j8WMYv2ofszgdVgsDs1tPXjAVg60OdzZWDTeuWK/s1600/563636_941260200033_1006880684_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGWKl8q9AB1HBCMUNlpErhOoH873wjf0ha8VW5_whhnShBTyhkrMyRatjhzuwAhGK6KlbsY9EUQnxOOJy3kIcr_PWwvTopnsOxBoP9j8WMYv2ofszgdVgsDs1tPXjAVg60OdzZWDTeuWK/s320/563636_941260200033_1006880684_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Racing camels on their way back to camp </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VgC-JwdDzeJJTNsgmUphD9GEp0MrBjBrhuV745zwvMKue_Iu1X6c0uQxm1kiMvrNi801l8LBqCyAiVWK6gIE3iZynymToPgj9pdTK6J8OtuMDjMSKMvNwPJehhkXKyfwalX71fwT-IZ0/s1600/383768_941260180073_1410709468_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VgC-JwdDzeJJTNsgmUphD9GEp0MrBjBrhuV745zwvMKue_Iu1X6c0uQxm1kiMvrNi801l8LBqCyAiVWK6gIE3iZynymToPgj9pdTK6J8OtuMDjMSKMvNwPJehhkXKyfwalX71fwT-IZ0/s320/383768_941260180073_1410709468_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-72501811546187559602012-12-31T23:57:00.000-08:002012-12-31T23:57:00.213-08:00Winter Break<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
One of the many blessings of living out
here in the sandbox is the fact that there is a three week break off
of school during the winter. This couldn't come at a better time as I
entered my last month of pregnancy and can enjoy rest and time spent
with Shawn. Shawn also finished up his semester of school (in which
he did very well and I am very proud of him), so we both have this
time to enjoy each other without a schedule. Although we have taken
this time to rest and get the house ready for baby, we also have been
“tourist,” doing the things around where we live that we haven't
had a chance to do. It also helps that the weather is perfect, in the
70's! Here are a few of the things we have done so far... but there
is more to come :)
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><b>Dubai/Global Village: (December 16th)</b></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Towards the beginning of break, one of
Shawn's mom's friends happened to be in Duabi on a trip, so we had
the opportunity to visit her. We have been doing some airport runs,
taking people to the airport for their winter trips and making some
extra money, and so were already headed that way in the morning. We
met her at her hotel and had a lovely big breakfast. We were then
going to bring her to the old souqs, but it was Friday and amazingly
it started to rain. We then thought about bringing her to the mall,
but decided that was too touristy. Instead, we decided to bring her
back to Al Ain. Her tour group was going to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so
we thought it would be nice to show her another place that was less
of a tourist trap and a little more cultural. After swinging by the
flat, we drove out to the mountain here and then took her to lunch at
one of our favorite local places. It was a beautiful day with great
views from the mountain. We even ate outside on the patio for lunch.
We had to bring her back to her hotel after lunch because her group
was going on a desert safari, so we headed to a place called Global
Village in Dubai afterwards. It is a little like Epcot, in that it
represents places around the world, just on a much smaller scale. You
walk through different “shops” around the world filled with gifts
and food. Some places were really well done, such as Africa. That
section had beautiful handcrafted things from Africa as well as
people working there from different countries such as Kenya. Other
places were not as impressive, selling clothing that could be from
anywhere in the world and nothing specific to thar country. There was
also a part with rides, like the fair, but I didn't ride any (I
wonder why not!). We had fun walking around, but were also tired
after a long (but fun) day so headed home to bed!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamqYjgFiF2hW0F8H8mgF-xeOqw9rG-RLRu9mjYJId98Zrn71TCyUBBttYEFAA4stvuXJHBc5FsjZYEJLrpn6HDSMpDxsTXxyY5seyNuN1JU3PUGAsvxge9QtAwfAo_E2Taq9KfgdMJQel/s1600/406748_937562615023_1243528801_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamqYjgFiF2hW0F8H8mgF-xeOqw9rG-RLRu9mjYJId98Zrn71TCyUBBttYEFAA4stvuXJHBc5FsjZYEJLrpn6HDSMpDxsTXxyY5seyNuN1JU3PUGAsvxge9QtAwfAo_E2Taq9KfgdMJQel/s320/406748_937562615023_1243528801_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeYNmYxZT_rk6hdVul05VTNVzwn_s0bNJRT-JgipckW2fAQCpqlQj0A4u0V-D500Kk-YsiOamzx5BZ4I2LTKSloOJyB2Ja7VCiRdou9ULeE-Fy1lrE2i2VLDgerZZXILZ-FLxmJW9C_-g/s1600/18310_937562570113_1807334200_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeYNmYxZT_rk6hdVul05VTNVzwn_s0bNJRT-JgipckW2fAQCpqlQj0A4u0V-D500Kk-YsiOamzx5BZ4I2LTKSloOJyB2Ja7VCiRdou9ULeE-Fy1lrE2i2VLDgerZZXILZ-FLxmJW9C_-g/s320/18310_937562570113_1807334200_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Visiting with a friend</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfZw7Il-rK4dDbMEznOtMwvCoO8rAV1Uszw0VtEOi5QNtiuJUSmGFjBojDyD5HbYdFyfZ4rBpFgBm70Rt4bYvw68FJOTMn3A4Jg1zM0pbaJ-KeAZ9wzJMn74OMxJGq8j0nujQqPmfyjTk/s1600/262692_937562754743_623839532_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfZw7Il-rK4dDbMEznOtMwvCoO8rAV1Uszw0VtEOi5QNtiuJUSmGFjBojDyD5HbYdFyfZ4rBpFgBm70Rt4bYvw68FJOTMn3A4Jg1zM0pbaJ-KeAZ9wzJMn74OMxJGq8j0nujQqPmfyjTk/s320/262692_937562754743_623839532_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEW77zksPIkUKKiaPcANVlMEliW8UklQMF7kZdHc1Wmpl8IhihoIkl4OJFbHj9s_62MNjfIyBD4k0COCgtujeync_KD-ApaEQuJGgrvgRaHz-JoHkynuz1TZWV3tZ5QpJJe-7Gg5H1bfC/s1600/397046_937562729793_985512441_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEW77zksPIkUKKiaPcANVlMEliW8UklQMF7kZdHc1Wmpl8IhihoIkl4OJFbHj9s_62MNjfIyBD4k0COCgtujeync_KD-ApaEQuJGgrvgRaHz-JoHkynuz1TZWV3tZ5QpJJe-7Gg5H1bfC/s320/397046_937562729793_985512441_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Y0IUMH6bw43YHvTJjO2E9kbv7QlENNDKNRPx2WaQKUxgytSYv2gDRSX2-sGy3eAtqFGSJ9Pc7yw-CPOLNeluajRjIiIkM3SAN1HE2PdzEljY6JYtLJWie9Ff6pXCJAdyusnmEREefFZW/s1600/406583_937562679893_1702841477_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Y0IUMH6bw43YHvTJjO2E9kbv7QlENNDKNRPx2WaQKUxgytSYv2gDRSX2-sGy3eAtqFGSJ9Pc7yw-CPOLNeluajRjIiIkM3SAN1HE2PdzEljY6JYtLJWie9Ff6pXCJAdyusnmEREefFZW/s320/406583_937562679893_1702841477_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73NIYKJVLcLx2QGjgeRcBBWldVteUQKV-4Us_66sjHK5anD_QAuDfC_pWnLgMmgaz5FcVRSytVz_Jb2mQ1lvWcwxESEZvk89mtQ8VrutD2HkA1Kwx8k09EqcTT4Z8yCtbfg8O6koLciJQ/s1600/530436_937562734783_633489032_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73NIYKJVLcLx2QGjgeRcBBWldVteUQKV-4Us_66sjHK5anD_QAuDfC_pWnLgMmgaz5FcVRSytVz_Jb2mQ1lvWcwxESEZvk89mtQ8VrutD2HkA1Kwx8k09EqcTT4Z8yCtbfg8O6koLciJQ/s320/530436_937562734783_633489032_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsRtDB2KaMwTYx24WJF3-MQZms3c-MG6grzfNpY9hDZZFSMadDJqA5j53sMVPzynBdlwlY99HGgeECnFQoSfp0-9dTRKk5Qmwgm6oSVTbmgl79h_lYaosSSE102khWYFdSxIOvVnxDQWx/s1600/603332_937562634983_1446913954_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsRtDB2KaMwTYx24WJF3-MQZms3c-MG6grzfNpY9hDZZFSMadDJqA5j53sMVPzynBdlwlY99HGgeECnFQoSfp0-9dTRKk5Qmwgm6oSVTbmgl79h_lYaosSSE102khWYFdSxIOvVnxDQWx/s320/603332_937562634983_1446913954_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Global Village </div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><b>The Zoo: (December 20th) </b></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Not far down the road from our flat is
the Al Ain Zoo, so another day over break we made our way there. It
was another lovely day with clear skies, and he headed out early to
get started. I must say I was impressed by the zoo. It is very large,
and the animals have good enclosures, not small cages. There were
many desert animals, some of which I had never seen before, as well
as familiar animals such as lions and tigers. There was a family in
front of us that was frustrating though. The father, a local, started
throwing rocks into some of the animal cages to get them to move,
such as the tiger that was lying in the shade. It made me so mad,
eventually we just had to go a different way so I would be near the
family anymore. Another nice things about the zoo were the prices.
Back home, tourist places are always outrageous. You may spend $10 on
a hotdog for lunch. At this zoo, all the food and drinks were
reasonably priced. We were able to eat a nice lunch outside for a
very decent price. I even got a slushie :). Some of our favorite
animals were the monkeys and the penguins. The penguins were putting
on a show, swimming and jumping everywhere! We definitely will be
bringing baby Casey there! After the zoo we were going to go see The
Life of Pi at the movies, but we had a little bump in the road. We
had about an hour, so we decided to head home before the movie. Shawn
has been having trouble with his teeth, so when we went home he
decided to clean them out before we left. While cleaning, he hit an
exposed nerve and was in so much pain I thought he wouldn't even make
it to the doctor. He was able to drive, and was injected with
Novocaine and a shot in his bottom when we got there! They scheduled
him for a root canal a few days later, and soon we were back on track
and off to the movie. We both had read the book, and thought the
movie was well done. Even with a little bump in the road, it was a
great day!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nvv9k5XZjo9laPoiKuaR9SkEnAg1Afy8hko_r2joEViAU4l_-rCLrjW-A47wnFz289xFO3RTLM04PO_TVjpp1xVkNBDt_VLXVAr_gmblL0r8k5l4IAWT3bjWq8y4zwysHMrzq2Dd4cK9/s1600/154921_940031242873_630269797_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nvv9k5XZjo9laPoiKuaR9SkEnAg1Afy8hko_r2joEViAU4l_-rCLrjW-A47wnFz289xFO3RTLM04PO_TVjpp1xVkNBDt_VLXVAr_gmblL0r8k5l4IAWT3bjWq8y4zwysHMrzq2Dd4cK9/s320/154921_940031242873_630269797_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5K2aSzEFxanbT8iFyO-b5I-kcXsz5zmOXgoKEq7zKG9WmQVrtKoZsiWlzSPFfTPwkMjzd213HFvVMaLxvOjheqASSgDanWorJWTzNHCtr9zO_5VZPaH9x5S6skJG61n4LEHN_yHa0vhnh/s1600/15927_940031597163_1318847749_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5K2aSzEFxanbT8iFyO-b5I-kcXsz5zmOXgoKEq7zKG9WmQVrtKoZsiWlzSPFfTPwkMjzd213HFvVMaLxvOjheqASSgDanWorJWTzNHCtr9zO_5VZPaH9x5S6skJG61n4LEHN_yHa0vhnh/s320/15927_940031597163_1318847749_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They have camel rides at the zoo! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKE270rK3msBA2ei9pH6bPzO2v9id1IDFti9daoQCg7Jnfo_ueJ9pyh5i0ibR0sK2J93ytMd2BCpWGMKMCnHaomNnjmek5_4AixKVjrZxaFCqSnWJ19ZePkFsRsMawtRLLG7BpvxM9NZe/s1600/165058_940031192973_628248617_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKE270rK3msBA2ei9pH6bPzO2v9id1IDFti9daoQCg7Jnfo_ueJ9pyh5i0ibR0sK2J93ytMd2BCpWGMKMCnHaomNnjmek5_4AixKVjrZxaFCqSnWJ19ZePkFsRsMawtRLLG7BpvxM9NZe/s320/165058_940031192973_628248617_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qsds5ZJlrcyqY7PXMShvv_V1BtBhEay6joZVRb6qhIpwzVs1ANmqFCDC1t1kaAWPLoHbpKsStnRxf5YbtUd_PTnHCo9humovUiSUbs4-RKuaHe9WYJxqiyuWWIZDoV-L8dQCdbe3WzAd/s1600/227099_940031657043_894587276_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qsds5ZJlrcyqY7PXMShvv_V1BtBhEay6joZVRb6qhIpwzVs1ANmqFCDC1t1kaAWPLoHbpKsStnRxf5YbtUd_PTnHCo9humovUiSUbs4-RKuaHe9WYJxqiyuWWIZDoV-L8dQCdbe3WzAd/s320/227099_940031657043_894587276_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqr__ll1lgAQ3T3SNgcSofDsQaF4i3BMIsZ4SP5bBVw-_VecpOYXoa5RSphxK5Y3qmjXXGavtVqE8865oOqaAOQk1cYHsTdd6SGuvs_pxRzM0RImITELu1-5jDqPHVCah6-1lNtm8f2mh/s1600/25041_940031637083_297288189_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqr__ll1lgAQ3T3SNgcSofDsQaF4i3BMIsZ4SP5bBVw-_VecpOYXoa5RSphxK5Y3qmjXXGavtVqE8865oOqaAOQk1cYHsTdd6SGuvs_pxRzM0RImITELu1-5jDqPHVCah6-1lNtm8f2mh/s320/25041_940031637083_297288189_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoXMSKhAHkZJy3pqzVJIYnkaF6cZeFsjyuvxE9fgLVuyHZOXT9LSx5lpc162z83WwDGmIRznDtuaG_VIdKhTB_cBZI3mEEkl15MsIb49CIv9Q_jByutFKzmvYIEeJ7WTTzpZBBxGf6H9B/s1600/281373_940031572213_1971874008_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoXMSKhAHkZJy3pqzVJIYnkaF6cZeFsjyuvxE9fgLVuyHZOXT9LSx5lpc162z83WwDGmIRznDtuaG_VIdKhTB_cBZI3mEEkl15MsIb49CIv9Q_jByutFKzmvYIEeJ7WTTzpZBBxGf6H9B/s320/281373_940031572213_1971874008_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDpT6LFfv6id_8FuHgMCpdQCTBsPgS8WWqn3sajG44y4wf0mJDmMQn5freUSEf00XR-J7esxWyGEiUgt-Ak77KQsGM3VGCHxsGK1G9k8uuPwmfJrm29m0BZAVpdVoPTii7ZLQVP2W9fsVn/s1600/385729_940031681993_176007987_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDpT6LFfv6id_8FuHgMCpdQCTBsPgS8WWqn3sajG44y4wf0mJDmMQn5freUSEf00XR-J7esxWyGEiUgt-Ak77KQsGM3VGCHxsGK1G9k8uuPwmfJrm29m0BZAVpdVoPTii7ZLQVP2W9fsVn/s320/385729_940031681993_176007987_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fun penguins </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCyxBpXVybTTlmjVPiduSlssUDHwcNf48zOHGxUeyIMEBPcZIw7XDJ2AqNIxoCg3VN0TNfPH3Jf_ffg5I-9KnYaIDeKdta65XD596n_9S-NBvuLX0vUyyhC6btYRLsp_shQ2Hg-O4DwK6n/s1600/425594_940031297763_299589805_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCyxBpXVybTTlmjVPiduSlssUDHwcNf48zOHGxUeyIMEBPcZIw7XDJ2AqNIxoCg3VN0TNfPH3Jf_ffg5I-9KnYaIDeKdta65XD596n_9S-NBvuLX0vUyyhC6btYRLsp_shQ2Hg-O4DwK6n/s320/425594_940031297763_299589805_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPfDYiOOqnh9q2Bfc6flWK0xjxIlkDcQGylF47B68ietyFL-j21DmXHpITRv_l0yhX6OS7z3R9l5JRxqzOnuJiA_DE9ooAkgh_LecwVL7NDWwIwWEKdrTaFptMDdu5luiG4giicEjofdf/s1600/428800_940031507343_1780304319_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPfDYiOOqnh9q2Bfc6flWK0xjxIlkDcQGylF47B68ietyFL-j21DmXHpITRv_l0yhX6OS7z3R9l5JRxqzOnuJiA_DE9ooAkgh_LecwVL7NDWwIwWEKdrTaFptMDdu5luiG4giicEjofdf/s320/428800_940031507343_1780304319_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOd3XMeKzepcdiYxCzMYpNfq0pemj3uJYqaMRPG-XK9jbMc3lGEwCM0y4KlQ2ZFcbqoq45k05XdJyUv44yH6xr_UPsXUh4F04Ww3eT0FfOY4-0TOSQ4V5GujjDdIfCLtg9xe00iFmClQJ/s1600/480560_940030958443_807529817_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOd3XMeKzepcdiYxCzMYpNfq0pemj3uJYqaMRPG-XK9jbMc3lGEwCM0y4KlQ2ZFcbqoq45k05XdJyUv44yH6xr_UPsXUh4F04Ww3eT0FfOY4-0TOSQ4V5GujjDdIfCLtg9xe00iFmClQJ/s320/480560_940030958443_807529817_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CcZa1htYNqQqG6wwWybI8CoiKN7NU6eZdrCl3sczc88aswzCaXmni9vfajT2LfW-Zs26QkpIBKZJlyFQOHRCsagggmVqRGm9EhYIdYbA1UHME5UxjMcmzy1TpmFf9OBKigm1PlO2JXmB/s1600/481451_940031352653_51720051_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CcZa1htYNqQqG6wwWybI8CoiKN7NU6eZdrCl3sczc88aswzCaXmni9vfajT2LfW-Zs26QkpIBKZJlyFQOHRCsagggmVqRGm9EhYIdYbA1UHME5UxjMcmzy1TpmFf9OBKigm1PlO2JXmB/s320/481451_940031352653_51720051_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shawn made a friend</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHbPBmKMl6q_-EMVALlsPhh6JkDRZu1QMppdrhDf9HiB2OspsHlFAbe22GJER70L4pcPilwCP3OBmfDwhE7pZPrq_MXFYSC0PkdAqabE95fVVbl_fMskGFr0yLMvvH55g2d2HtU_s3FtpU/s1600/148917_940031721913_1724587654_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHbPBmKMl6q_-EMVALlsPhh6JkDRZu1QMppdrhDf9HiB2OspsHlFAbe22GJER70L4pcPilwCP3OBmfDwhE7pZPrq_MXFYSC0PkdAqabE95fVVbl_fMskGFr0yLMvvH55g2d2HtU_s3FtpU/s320/148917_940031721913_1724587654_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u><b>Jebel Hafeet: (December 30th)</b></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Jebel is part of a mountain range in
the UAE, and is the highest mountain in that range. It is not huge
compared to other mountains around the world, but to see it rise up
in the desert is pretty impressive. The road leading up to the top of
the mountain is considered one of the top ten drives in the world, as
it winds up in horseshoe turns. We took one morning to drive to the
top and take in the views. They are quite stunning. After the drive,
we headed to the bottom of the mountain to a place called the Green
Mubazzarah. This is a beautiful green park nestled right at the base
of the mountains, and includes a natural hot spring. We drove around
taking in the sites before stopping to dip our feet in the spring
water. I knew they were called hot springs, but I wasn't prepared for
how warm the water actually was. After the dip, we found a beautiful
shady spot for our picnic and enjoyed a meal together. Again, it was
a beautiful day with no clouds, and I almost fell asleep for a nap on
our blanket. Can't wait to take little man there for a family picnic
soon!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2kfhppgqJnpwE6F_2dV2KsVajmfa8bc4JbnKSgHTmTxg6GHGc_Lmg7ggBcnpiHStdQxJujhWt69kyCBGeKIBeehX5AtnCEw8F63vngBinSuAFVaV0mRJP66-Mza1wf-HAW1TtQ2DmRm0/s1600/15672_944192194293_1033810272_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2kfhppgqJnpwE6F_2dV2KsVajmfa8bc4JbnKSgHTmTxg6GHGc_Lmg7ggBcnpiHStdQxJujhWt69kyCBGeKIBeehX5AtnCEw8F63vngBinSuAFVaV0mRJP66-Mza1wf-HAW1TtQ2DmRm0/s320/15672_944192194293_1033810272_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On top of the mountain </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFijRXesjFP1YNXgM-_u1Q4snDu1xk9aob6XYM6sEb-PQvaMhC2MCxzizA0hArGQpZpd-4uR_8bbe2-dxL4h-dceCK_23bIzo-HtXTd1zogefr-CM4MYYTA9tJi_OLLm5gvmqxyWLNOGc/s1600/2031_944191974733_1947274237_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFijRXesjFP1YNXgM-_u1Q4snDu1xk9aob6XYM6sEb-PQvaMhC2MCxzizA0hArGQpZpd-4uR_8bbe2-dxL4h-dceCK_23bIzo-HtXTd1zogefr-CM4MYYTA9tJi_OLLm5gvmqxyWLNOGc/s320/2031_944191974733_1947274237_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfUY7z570i4tVzz6gQUGRmUeG0NL_FycqyNDiFhXXyLNxhSWwJvD6__H0weNiZKynn1sZvJxPbIbwbTXJf8v2wZSjG3xEFKyRzoj258uS6iCt-NbqHGs_KClEBnbK8yBKaDIKNDGx1UHh/s1600/224987_944192209263_1432125662_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfUY7z570i4tVzz6gQUGRmUeG0NL_FycqyNDiFhXXyLNxhSWwJvD6__H0weNiZKynn1sZvJxPbIbwbTXJf8v2wZSjG3xEFKyRzoj258uS6iCt-NbqHGs_KClEBnbK8yBKaDIKNDGx1UHh/s320/224987_944192209263_1432125662_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-LVv2-cSRKkoTLElPXLAR4nWfcPPgtnalluPdNdTwYjxHdZFzZT00fT7EpfJRQRmkcPbfOM1g9YfWsR8zfqUc5BuxJE7QdTsP3UdyU-LSmpfwtb9NTTrsfadisX8t_yDG3ON_GEmF_s2l/s1600/307562_944191999683_2061128395_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-LVv2-cSRKkoTLElPXLAR4nWfcPPgtnalluPdNdTwYjxHdZFzZT00fT7EpfJRQRmkcPbfOM1g9YfWsR8zfqUc5BuxJE7QdTsP3UdyU-LSmpfwtb9NTTrsfadisX8t_yDG3ON_GEmF_s2l/s320/307562_944191999683_2061128395_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidFxgb-uQEa0c0l0KgF9N4fGB3fyoqs5S9Vz8WH-hKPA7UgTZ1GV5Wjhd_439vKL-hry_ndWkcvl_9sMe8TLDxH3QF0iTV_yEXghls-2aZeS4AkZssrY7cgIolgBIfLcDYMoDmOCPLDXl-/s1600/397705_944191934813_1830312738_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidFxgb-uQEa0c0l0KgF9N4fGB3fyoqs5S9Vz8WH-hKPA7UgTZ1GV5Wjhd_439vKL-hry_ndWkcvl_9sMe8TLDxH3QF0iTV_yEXghls-2aZeS4AkZssrY7cgIolgBIfLcDYMoDmOCPLDXl-/s320/397705_944191934813_1830312738_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7Fuc6Y4a5-3MvQm3gzFmMMXGKAk_4yLJ6SPmEVNfcOoyZFfYaX0zlJU_oevKv12QlG5AmZETTeTQ_-kS3TE_P88Lcu0D0qfJhgPVnnCzSyr827XByBRjGc1Bsgw83_m92ZJx_G0-7j6N/s1600/47686_944192024633_295102586_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7Fuc6Y4a5-3MvQm3gzFmMMXGKAk_4yLJ6SPmEVNfcOoyZFfYaX0zlJU_oevKv12QlG5AmZETTeTQ_-kS3TE_P88Lcu0D0qfJhgPVnnCzSyr827XByBRjGc1Bsgw83_m92ZJx_G0-7j6N/s320/47686_944192024633_295102586_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMOBM9kSc6AIT1RPLtM7Tv843w8q3tBmWL3uCUfE6j5WWjKuyRaV4MD6MPWX2X-dzqakx4vRvMKrqC3-PiCj6kcSs7cvhx3gnS0W21qLYqFa2BP5hcN_FXNVLHbfDdylGjVMJ_z0iNHa4/s1600/531883_944192144393_1088017267_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMOBM9kSc6AIT1RPLtM7Tv843w8q3tBmWL3uCUfE6j5WWjKuyRaV4MD6MPWX2X-dzqakx4vRvMKrqC3-PiCj6kcSs7cvhx3gnS0W21qLYqFa2BP5hcN_FXNVLHbfDdylGjVMJ_z0iNHa4/s320/531883_944192144393_1088017267_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwTfc3J0vzGMpo606h2k9ETMgUUQDHUySq5UVNEY25gzY6D1wN3IkLnjRjcJPmwYG6rgdDYgOrwng_jR5Iy8zIRAvCSRXrQXtPLFOUtTHxijqar-4vPS6GfMW6ieO70i5-kl_k7VuxV3q/s1600/602720_944191884913_1226473473_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwTfc3J0vzGMpo606h2k9ETMgUUQDHUySq5UVNEY25gzY6D1wN3IkLnjRjcJPmwYG6rgdDYgOrwng_jR5Iy8zIRAvCSRXrQXtPLFOUtTHxijqar-4vPS6GfMW6ieO70i5-kl_k7VuxV3q/s320/602720_944191884913_1226473473_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYI3EnKa-xhqTf9LPk4yW6Bxl7C6KFjwaPm6tyMjYIgXQSUTSsQTP3dyVI74YoT_QNxg26TVm9PIi-kcG-lZ_hA3SstGl736jHBAEhuC5Zpx34rzUMUtzy6dTbKgSWs1lU3MlmrFvQ9Xc0/s1600/25057_944192423833_1058024611_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYI3EnKa-xhqTf9LPk4yW6Bxl7C6KFjwaPm6tyMjYIgXQSUTSsQTP3dyVI74YoT_QNxg26TVm9PIi-kcG-lZ_hA3SstGl736jHBAEhuC5Zpx34rzUMUtzy6dTbKgSWs1lU3MlmrFvQ9Xc0/s320/25057_944192423833_1058024611_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Picnic time </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbbFJb1iUVUdntvwa4xFCZ7itV5kWY4neZ74QMP3Cqgav-Q7Z6hh12gB7DAHNamRHzPFPK4Pa4wCt_OZThdbXY0IIbVTaGpt5QHSAFAToZT361euTDtJrCYrqYfdvjFlytPZLbi0Aazhz/s1600/379563_944192413853_472360497_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbbFJb1iUVUdntvwa4xFCZ7itV5kWY4neZ74QMP3Cqgav-Q7Z6hh12gB7DAHNamRHzPFPK4Pa4wCt_OZThdbXY0IIbVTaGpt5QHSAFAToZT361euTDtJrCYrqYfdvjFlytPZLbi0Aazhz/s320/379563_944192413853_472360497_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aH0fzg4u-eqYJqTjqxd8tAO4M3iPFKLKcKJCAEofyxXZiBl023RYqwhdQ-q6f50W0p8Nl6CjRMvwGMWLD_VXFWA1ZNkv2kBixwPVn050UbQqDawahIhlNgPTIkYo7QUXrMA6BvAoKMBs/s1600/388291_944192373933_20993395_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aH0fzg4u-eqYJqTjqxd8tAO4M3iPFKLKcKJCAEofyxXZiBl023RYqwhdQ-q6f50W0p8Nl6CjRMvwGMWLD_VXFWA1ZNkv2kBixwPVn050UbQqDawahIhlNgPTIkYo7QUXrMA6BvAoKMBs/s320/388291_944192373933_20993395_n.jpg" width="213" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hot springs </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqWHfK8Bwn9AkGlQhFZ0dc2p3U5IscZROoMFKr27wvzm5c-YQvgVfE_XfpDG4Ebr11lpi_re0hYU5Y4rd1ZQDngC1ugcTkeKkwWhtFzI_7roLogLy1R6OyhC6ZpTphiVK2s93EtqTmRBG/s1600/268192_944192334013_1880302960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqWHfK8Bwn9AkGlQhFZ0dc2p3U5IscZROoMFKr27wvzm5c-YQvgVfE_XfpDG4Ebr11lpi_re0hYU5Y4rd1ZQDngC1ugcTkeKkwWhtFzI_7roLogLy1R6OyhC6ZpTphiVK2s93EtqTmRBG/s320/268192_944192334013_1880302960_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikv46nd48Z-8rBY_gEdbnaJusnrcyIEun5qqpY86k3AAeKUFXtZppdPtOcY8zNu64SjaG0xlLG9i9xkMK2eOb6E_mMz8NagkYQt0gDMF0kc2iUMuKndks_nyN2WHFZbR6TWqmttnPrmYJJ/s1600/427714_944192378923_1680780522_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikv46nd48Z-8rBY_gEdbnaJusnrcyIEun5qqpY86k3AAeKUFXtZppdPtOcY8zNu64SjaG0xlLG9i9xkMK2eOb6E_mMz8NagkYQt0gDMF0kc2iUMuKndks_nyN2WHFZbR6TWqmttnPrmYJJ/s320/427714_944192378923_1680780522_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our picnic spot </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNNSZq5szLNhcZWmqpYSbGGvHEpNkDDH9ErAKO6Rrcd_beDBsd5zu_k72sAGfed3MJURXxVfjj7_Yyh7-HKfeGUNUkCqy23-QrZ1q5n8uydD5m1MDWRDAGilwDPiqeCoV9df9ir5xZoho/s1600/249857_944192329023_221339545_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNNSZq5szLNhcZWmqpYSbGGvHEpNkDDH9ErAKO6Rrcd_beDBsd5zu_k72sAGfed3MJURXxVfjj7_Yyh7-HKfeGUNUkCqy23-QrZ1q5n8uydD5m1MDWRDAGilwDPiqeCoV9df9ir5xZoho/s320/249857_944192329023_221339545_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<u><b>Out and About:</b></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We also have used our time to just do
small things out and about. We went to see The Hobbit in theaters as
well as spent a day shopping for baby at the mall. We spent one day
taking a walk at a park near our home and ran into our friends while
there. This ended with a nice snack at Starbucks together after our
walk. We have eaten out a few times and even ordered in... and we
have more fun things planned. We will of course be going to see Les
Miserables (the movie) when it comes out here in a few days and we
have another trip planned for Dubai to see the indoor ski resort.
There are a few museums and parks we want to check out here, and of
course more rest before our big adventure!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCu3vgdCj5IwWFRGmM8daGs1MMfIo6drboa5PKWaYBFd7cZBjNP9IzXcAhT1k4dLYgVWx8CZr_bCQ1BTeKfQNTEWusrpWtUHERcKWFVVZFumRqsr93ZVdnMXuYFbwrBlzRr93ExY0D-NYu/s1600/150620_938859530993_1582843835_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCu3vgdCj5IwWFRGmM8daGs1MMfIo6drboa5PKWaYBFd7cZBjNP9IzXcAhT1k4dLYgVWx8CZr_bCQ1BTeKfQNTEWusrpWtUHERcKWFVVZFumRqsr93ZVdnMXuYFbwrBlzRr93ExY0D-NYu/s320/150620_938859530993_1582843835_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Starbucks with friends </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjysSSPl1ocmL5T39cKz2b739Yroh1Lf0XVACvWsxGuBa1am36Tkr0UMDXicKuvKXyzHHJsjJdZ8aCnzULPttwf23Yb3QyViJqoapYAM1vq-9DgEIn6cMz4V_PvU7IuD-M4_NmwqhfhBOkG/s1600/230305_938859451153_926992855_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjysSSPl1ocmL5T39cKz2b739Yroh1Lf0XVACvWsxGuBa1am36Tkr0UMDXicKuvKXyzHHJsjJdZ8aCnzULPttwf23Yb3QyViJqoapYAM1vq-9DgEIn6cMz4V_PvU7IuD-M4_NmwqhfhBOkG/s320/230305_938859451153_926992855_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Walk in the park </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzEUopGyDB1oBr6OMpCK2o_cid7BYizMeuOTZLl91nTXz8YAcpP4ylN2ttyB8hmqwtaN4LeqeT1rEpvmVNe98YUpYgSmF_PPWELI6X_PbhXetbNma7i2jxyWncs9qyeD32npK2c4Y7ouY/s1600/546342_942761990433_1509654319_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzEUopGyDB1oBr6OMpCK2o_cid7BYizMeuOTZLl91nTXz8YAcpP4ylN2ttyB8hmqwtaN4LeqeT1rEpvmVNe98YUpYgSmF_PPWELI6X_PbhXetbNma7i2jxyWncs9qyeD32npK2c4Y7ouY/s320/546342_942761990433_1509654319_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shopping for baby </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-6lhPVdGF5zc47Y6dQLU7JatNJ6c4Q0s80Mzwfqh-jvybY3bm3Jy4FMop3AXj_wfMhdbRkseaEcd2NlzAhBRGWP3Hx7lZUFZeJUfP3UZRKr4pG-vMGjPk5RYnhPXumcGOank7JFHPjQ8/s1600/68836_937562854543_402602260_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-6lhPVdGF5zc47Y6dQLU7JatNJ6c4Q0s80Mzwfqh-jvybY3bm3Jy4FMop3AXj_wfMhdbRkseaEcd2NlzAhBRGWP3Hx7lZUFZeJUfP3UZRKr4pG-vMGjPk5RYnhPXumcGOank7JFHPjQ8/s320/68836_937562854543_402602260_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjew-S-5VMNp6LWzCGPmnS6Gl0ZXD1X7Se34SVH6nLGSPZGSBho0xwM_2bg1jHHALORlgLU5gI_0fLM1bqGUPT5Cav0eusu0JR5kRsVs3IxVFWdSXbiOaO3_9j9RjaN3jiuIidTw0vvKw7S/s1600/9699_938859446163_1778852114_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjew-S-5VMNp6LWzCGPmnS6Gl0ZXD1X7Se34SVH6nLGSPZGSBho0xwM_2bg1jHHALORlgLU5gI_0fLM1bqGUPT5Cav0eusu0JR5kRsVs3IxVFWdSXbiOaO3_9j9RjaN3jiuIidTw0vvKw7S/s320/9699_938859446163_1778852114_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Walk in the park </div>
<br />
</div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-69067103334654560192012-12-31T23:40:00.001-08:002012-12-31T23:40:57.787-08:00Christmas in the Desert<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We have had an amazing opportunity to
celebrate Christmas this year in a completely different environment.
Even though we are away from family and the weather is... well quite
nice in my mind, we have found ways to make this time special. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifa9APC601QhU5NWurClVtHJ_nhmE54zLSYh6VJTk2-1hWxq-D6Nkv7cQZP_kM-rHgWZ6iyCeF9YdDNFMHlngZQoip_Vtzvh7hU0KyL8VTBMgROP8L1stwUVY2QkYBZ4VPaVmoha4mW_v0/s1600/263642_930060978363_634872237_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifa9APC601QhU5NWurClVtHJ_nhmE54zLSYh6VJTk2-1hWxq-D6Nkv7cQZP_kM-rHgWZ6iyCeF9YdDNFMHlngZQoip_Vtzvh7hU0KyL8VTBMgROP8L1stwUVY2QkYBZ4VPaVmoha4mW_v0/s320/263642_930060978363_634872237_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
The first event was something called
<b>Carols in the Desert</b> (December 7). A couple that are good friends of ours invited
me along. Unfortunately, Shawn was unable to go because it was the
last week of school for him and he had projects and exams to do. We
had an adventure driving out to find it, but we were very happy that
we did. Out in the middle of the sand dunes, hundreds of people
gathered to celebrate. Everyone brought their own food and spread out
blankets/chairs. There was hot cocoa, carols, and lights. It was
really something to walk through the sand and hear pockets of voices
all singing the same songs and celebrating the holiday together. My
friend Shon even went for a walk and met some local Emiratis sitting
on the dunes watching. Although many people camped out in the dunes,
we headed home and I slept in my own bed!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUa5boIEu9-15XOVRAv4U5WWPnwruwGZ8iPX-DAX9CdPPHlZzpH9b_ANMRJOJiIsIsYJ03uGVr2SQznZvaNst8-hZJmb2fChyphenhyphenDGlRfYijetVmbcg-ppiivRWgUAkvN58Pp0R_3I_HqHs4/s1600/481422_937560778703_968821254_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUa5boIEu9-15XOVRAv4U5WWPnwruwGZ8iPX-DAX9CdPPHlZzpH9b_ANMRJOJiIsIsYJ03uGVr2SQznZvaNst8-hZJmb2fChyphenhyphenDGlRfYijetVmbcg-ppiivRWgUAkvN58Pp0R_3I_HqHs4/s320/481422_937560778703_968821254_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shon, Jenia, and I </div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
During the last week of school I
decided to host a <b>Christmas party for my co-workers.</b> (December 10) I thought it
would be nice to get together outside of work. We had a great time!
The girls all came over and we had desserts to munch on. I made these
cute melted snowman cookies I found on Pinterest. We spent the night
chatting, and then played the gift exchange game I know as White
Elephant. The game is played where you can steal gifts others have
opened. Shawn ended up with a floating fountain that looks like a
mug.... which he stole from me. Because he stole my gift at the end
of the game, I opened the last gift and it was... a shisha (you may
call it a hookah). Everyone was laughing and wished they had picked
that gift, and Shawn was excited because he knew he would get to have
it. He tried it out the next day! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfI7mViO2on6JxR7wHD3wAlvhO9K4cZ8u63WnJcDjKrd9qBgSUSbPBCYrl8H-TovkUFCuD8eMeVwuRmOB8hc9XKUpD7q1pn1PJmbtbhjNPWx3tTUxkydLas2L_6thD7Bw9W5z1x0SrvqM/s1600/1144_942187915883_513342560_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfI7mViO2on6JxR7wHD3wAlvhO9K4cZ8u63WnJcDjKrd9qBgSUSbPBCYrl8H-TovkUFCuD8eMeVwuRmOB8hc9XKUpD7q1pn1PJmbtbhjNPWx3tTUxkydLas2L_6thD7Bw9W5z1x0SrvqM/s320/1144_942187915883_513342560_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Snowman cookies</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNQNP85Ma2RV7BPth8VmXqVhi6CY5ohgOCyzvOfbQAarsc6VoU69ag-KlPFIMJZ87qu4DI3RJInUGk93IodoGHV6PLmM6mZqn2fbr8BG46D9yWrkJpg96f_sHasISAj2AO6CjEg_HX6if/s1600/432253_935578346513_1925600482_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNQNP85Ma2RV7BPth8VmXqVhi6CY5ohgOCyzvOfbQAarsc6VoU69ag-KlPFIMJZ87qu4DI3RJInUGk93IodoGHV6PLmM6mZqn2fbr8BG46D9yWrkJpg96f_sHasISAj2AO6CjEg_HX6if/s320/432253_935578346513_1925600482_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shawn and his shisha </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A few days later we hosted another
similar <b>get together with our close friends</b> that live in the same
complex as we do. (December 13) Again, we had an array of yummy sweets including
snowman cookies, and we played the White Elephant game. It was
another fun time with lots of laughter as Shawn ended up with a small
purse. It was very practical as it had a package of tissues in it
(there is usually no toilet paper in the bathrooms) and it became
mine. I ended up with a nice Abu Dhabi coffee mug. It was another
pleasant evening with our extended family here before they all headed
of on their winter adventures. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilPBH66zSP_xYAIR13mULW84lvFDC68jQ-HhDzyjHQdVpISbl5el0Ej4x6PRIB4c52gA8QHSNhT6BOJNOslFxUuAaYBKVwsAIaoG_qZbE59VlwJw3jp-cwV0RG0wAZFWkeQcvJskDq2Oh/s1600/18082_937561033193_182408350_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilPBH66zSP_xYAIR13mULW84lvFDC68jQ-HhDzyjHQdVpISbl5el0Ej4x6PRIB4c52gA8QHSNhT6BOJNOslFxUuAaYBKVwsAIaoG_qZbE59VlwJw3jp-cwV0RG0wAZFWkeQcvJskDq2Oh/s320/18082_937561033193_182408350_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The crew </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOB2FMHF0GZUUjCG_Xufd8q0OSNbDDbxPzrf0KP3BlOSGJC9fPid1XP4u3v1OrAuTWbv4O0wYp_sPCQcMlAtZ4W8-7c7LlnRuTaUbFlxTdz8IAlaPHbvBgA2UNhAgnZkK1v68SrmXYJuE/s1600/6995_937560863533_1060840441_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOB2FMHF0GZUUjCG_Xufd8q0OSNbDDbxPzrf0KP3BlOSGJC9fPid1XP4u3v1OrAuTWbv4O0wYp_sPCQcMlAtZ4W8-7c7LlnRuTaUbFlxTdz8IAlaPHbvBgA2UNhAgnZkK1v68SrmXYJuE/s320/6995_937560863533_1060840441_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
Shawn and his new purse :)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Christmas Eve</b> was a great desert
experience. Our church hosted a get together in the dunes, next to
one of the largest dunes I have seen yet. We all brought food potluck
style and set up tables and blankets. When everyone arrived, groups
of people began to climb the dune. With 3 weeks to go before my due
date I thought... why not. At least I got my exercise for the day. It
was a challenge, but worth it when we got to the top. We enjoyed an
amazing sunset from on top of the desert before heading down to eat
and visit with friends. A group of children from the church acted out
the story of Jesus' birth as it was read after a bonfire had been
lit. It was cute, and a couple of Emirati locals came down to sit and
watch. This was followed by Christmas carols, but we didn't stay long
because I had Christmas cookies to bake! We headed home and made a
ton of Christmas cookies, some of which to be left out for Santa. We
also have been cat sitting, so we headed next door for some kitty
cuddles before heading to bed! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlX2f4Wb8FQPtDuMHnEVKLoTJlALJRMZop_2A9huIaDIPK06IRM1osiiMdiQNx9oJ4K1wQAVrXJ-eCmeTddZgbic1-3i2lhuHwoqttC5qWEK6ablmeOcUzPX9pyviIKsy5dUWOEwZ05BUu/s1600/188694_941671840103_42112286_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlX2f4Wb8FQPtDuMHnEVKLoTJlALJRMZop_2A9huIaDIPK06IRM1osiiMdiQNx9oJ4K1wQAVrXJ-eCmeTddZgbic1-3i2lhuHwoqttC5qWEK6ablmeOcUzPX9pyviIKsy5dUWOEwZ05BUu/s320/188694_941671840103_42112286_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Locals dune bashing </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCC-ooefJYAv2V_H4GDu4t1irqOCPTYsw3kC4JflXP8r96pm7UdDVfeEM0KEhXVkUGld-N0REfYx-kwEhw26Zg694lluCTgjnEKDG6WsVnuefcm6XDkpAE-o7QLCFPuONMJLgXfKjK_xqu/s1600/262709_941670318153_1510697874_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCC-ooefJYAv2V_H4GDu4t1irqOCPTYsw3kC4JflXP8r96pm7UdDVfeEM0KEhXVkUGld-N0REfYx-kwEhw26Zg694lluCTgjnEKDG6WsVnuefcm6XDkpAE-o7QLCFPuONMJLgXfKjK_xqu/s320/262709_941670318153_1510697874_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-SDadVIYRkw3D0ONYeZwFplSF3DKTObCxAmyFM4vDtOIrNP8QG2TYkbOjVlyC-REc4WoZZh7u3jufBXkxZIjmDe_jnD14wQb0V16A8QQ7N5UrE-ZqKecwjvWz9jVadN3EWaU23MneegPf/s1600/406656_941670098593_995359702_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-SDadVIYRkw3D0ONYeZwFplSF3DKTObCxAmyFM4vDtOIrNP8QG2TYkbOjVlyC-REc4WoZZh7u3jufBXkxZIjmDe_jnD14wQb0V16A8QQ7N5UrE-ZqKecwjvWz9jVadN3EWaU23MneegPf/s320/406656_941670098593_995359702_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View from up top </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdDNoeU3qNk5bheJH-bpiLdWFuOoiGEMmv4Ad7i6ay3CxWQi07UYikR2Kmw2USiFqB4gXmP67fEs0HEtR34GiDNqKVmWmYzOhyphenhyphenO-PmYrwluGHYbvb0a7Qk_3BKAqJByM0NAX1RJZ83Q0_/s1600/419462_941670148493_1431680802_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdDNoeU3qNk5bheJH-bpiLdWFuOoiGEMmv4Ad7i6ay3CxWQi07UYikR2Kmw2USiFqB4gXmP67fEs0HEtR34GiDNqKVmWmYzOhyphenhyphenO-PmYrwluGHYbvb0a7Qk_3BKAqJByM0NAX1RJZ83Q0_/s320/419462_941670148493_1431680802_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0TyHmYjFGlmARTXXNk0eKADHoH8Ruq6QEGg8BLXIWZfczqAAXjotWgiTyA6tZX1LmUWGjE5AT_awmBSaXN54A1ijg0kFu12imidfkRdIbDqD0kUawhNxOW0f7Cho-cBUDhU5n2CD4r_3/s1600/46384_941670298193_435885682_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0TyHmYjFGlmARTXXNk0eKADHoH8Ruq6QEGg8BLXIWZfczqAAXjotWgiTyA6tZX1LmUWGjE5AT_awmBSaXN54A1ijg0kFu12imidfkRdIbDqD0kUawhNxOW0f7Cho-cBUDhU5n2CD4r_3/s320/46384_941670298193_435885682_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCr7uxHmXfycyjsg5gCyGNroS_UJGz1sl02_n9mIeJIV0N8FVhZpYz02Y9YenioF2joctPG91woBd1Ge-K-dFcvvZ36qwodQP_OUZRfXUkDX-0rdtzM70ciCKaWZnNdGlbO5P-NnilK3G/s1600/481493_941669988813_1126757652_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCr7uxHmXfycyjsg5gCyGNroS_UJGz1sl02_n9mIeJIV0N8FVhZpYz02Y9YenioF2joctPG91woBd1Ge-K-dFcvvZ36qwodQP_OUZRfXUkDX-0rdtzM70ciCKaWZnNdGlbO5P-NnilK3G/s320/481493_941669988813_1126757652_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View from the bottom </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHUSEBruUUQyCqN_E5DqpTodb4r67WWFV5ZpSDzBekVNJzDus3_ihYOJOUoM-mfb4O2auZ7JgXWTZhhy7ZT2atrskWVykPvjh7P_r_vxAcMiSUYo2ID8uP6qvvSdBBEzorTwKBVMewPOv/s1600/557522_941670208373_883958119_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHUSEBruUUQyCqN_E5DqpTodb4r67WWFV5ZpSDzBekVNJzDus3_ihYOJOUoM-mfb4O2auZ7JgXWTZhhy7ZT2atrskWVykPvjh7P_r_vxAcMiSUYo2ID8uP6qvvSdBBEzorTwKBVMewPOv/s320/557522_941670208373_883958119_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQEaKnajItE7hVdEEZOFOA50lvTjOpl3wdhsweSBGEQznlMbg0lYc5u9jxs1C2Zdsp5JEqEwHLvuLckRspd4DqoqHcmET_cm4R6ld8H2bu93B-P6_qheAjOmD9Jwp4hCZG7dKXqvGea1p/s1600/65123_941671845093_1851519168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQEaKnajItE7hVdEEZOFOA50lvTjOpl3wdhsweSBGEQznlMbg0lYc5u9jxs1C2Zdsp5JEqEwHLvuLckRspd4DqoqHcmET_cm4R6ld8H2bu93B-P6_qheAjOmD9Jwp4hCZG7dKXqvGea1p/s320/65123_941671845093_1851519168_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVmZHVZVnJvT-Fh6xC5jJk3LRSH6NCOM0VvGH2VGpORzr9oHJ421Rzx8ThSY8W-0I0_fJfz-3Vl1ofjP46BEgI5b8et8tC_J51W97LaefTNIXH-Db8qUDM2lOpnWR_tsNTrEIRyA-l7HP/s1600/68638_941670183423_694740276_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVmZHVZVnJvT-Fh6xC5jJk3LRSH6NCOM0VvGH2VGpORzr9oHJ421Rzx8ThSY8W-0I0_fJfz-3Vl1ofjP46BEgI5b8et8tC_J51W97LaefTNIXH-Db8qUDM2lOpnWR_tsNTrEIRyA-l7HP/s320/68638_941670183423_694740276_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkS0dEi54tLTomsKrMFUwp0uz0jUnWhX4L18q58Tg4Xh9mDv9VVCaqazx-OA_guYH86IdqG0yVZ42YLtxscpBIfWeFK8xIU1Idl8SxTPRP1_RCM0cbiRpgDFiPUWobPPPXfniUL36nFiRZ/s1600/817_942208499633_1209690447_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkS0dEi54tLTomsKrMFUwp0uz0jUnWhX4L18q58Tg4Xh9mDv9VVCaqazx-OA_guYH86IdqG0yVZ42YLtxscpBIfWeFK8xIU1Idl8SxTPRP1_RCM0cbiRpgDFiPUWobPPPXfniUL36nFiRZ/s320/817_942208499633_1209690447_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Making cookies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8Sz7jfRKBNXMC9hbhDvswTspGA9aCgKw9H_uhQJDRE2g-KgduPPmzisNnNpVNvMShF3VSzaHZMOevkn-bwyaGjCl1mT1H3ZtYp4KfTJo8q8gmcy5q3UIt6VT7de7AXdEJOL38N0dqdNG/s1600/548089_942187905903_1542589686_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8Sz7jfRKBNXMC9hbhDvswTspGA9aCgKw9H_uhQJDRE2g-KgduPPmzisNnNpVNvMShF3VSzaHZMOevkn-bwyaGjCl1mT1H3ZtYp4KfTJo8q8gmcy5q3UIt6VT7de7AXdEJOL38N0dqdNG/s320/548089_942187905903_1542589686_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ready for Santa </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xLLsNL0UhoakQwr8DSojEML14M1UvbWg6n91E_rL3lFwBFkt2VV1CjzseNLDBfOso3FMtsXD9Qz1wWcmPBzO2wuXI6VfbLXjMbQRO9KFAFblXBFNzXSn6q7Oji-73b7UIGT-BXsOWpRW/s1600/61041_943558294633_331544471_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xLLsNL0UhoakQwr8DSojEML14M1UvbWg6n91E_rL3lFwBFkt2VV1CjzseNLDBfOso3FMtsXD9Qz1wWcmPBzO2wuXI6VfbLXjMbQRO9KFAFblXBFNzXSn6q7Oji-73b7UIGT-BXsOWpRW/s320/61041_943558294633_331544471_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kitty we are watching </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Christmas </b>morning Santa came and Shawn
and I exchanged gifts. He got an Armani wallet and I got a new bag.
We also got some other things such as games to play together and
candy in our stockings. We kept it a low key Christmas this year
because we were more focused on our coming bundle of joy! After
Christmas together we finished getting food ready and headed over to
some friends for another Christmas celebration. I made a veggie
wreath dish I found on Pinterest that turned out very yummy, and of
course more snowmen cookies. We ate and made new friends, and then
there was another round of White Elephant. There were some funny
gifts; such as onion goggles, a scooter, and the teddy bear Shawn
brought. Shawn and I both stole our gifts, and I ended up with some
Body Shop lotion and he got some nice classic books. After the game,
we were introduced to Christmas crackers. You pull them like a
wishbone, and they create a loud “crack”. Inside are fun little
things like jokes and a hat. It was fun to learn about another
tradition from a different part of the world. Overall it was a great
Christmas day! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2voFMjMdF6EZiKt_xA91phseHNw9bWAznoCCbYQskqYyKQlAxOIxZSLIhyphenhyphenCz0XrIJ-1-TY9nFZiSwF4iK4FWGmemBofXYOcCF-f90oB6OCOYva-Uoxb2ro4PcOoifNv6hM40URTAZ1aIq/s1600/74499_942187541633_945220797_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2voFMjMdF6EZiKt_xA91phseHNw9bWAznoCCbYQskqYyKQlAxOIxZSLIhyphenhyphenCz0XrIJ-1-TY9nFZiSwF4iK4FWGmemBofXYOcCF-f90oB6OCOYva-Uoxb2ro4PcOoifNv6hM40URTAZ1aIq/s320/74499_942187541633_945220797_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Santa came!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcIIfQQClE9h5biM6nH4G-26Sea0oTd1iNRlRHjGb892MGlGm-uYMRfu9OQd8Qy1LMxTeutfCpbK3DmuFWO0bYKjoAC3k-HscPPVYwCtBAV0nh5D-JjMK9TrhW7dcfyqKWf4hOJ4YGOwt/s1600/551747_942187631453_28238735_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcIIfQQClE9h5biM6nH4G-26Sea0oTd1iNRlRHjGb892MGlGm-uYMRfu9OQd8Qy1LMxTeutfCpbK3DmuFWO0bYKjoAC3k-HscPPVYwCtBAV0nh5D-JjMK9TrhW7dcfyqKWf4hOJ4YGOwt/s320/551747_942187631453_28238735_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtM-AC61wtcXhWcku43lHHhp7OM7XZOkNr3l2mY1VpiT8jPnlozkqWXvfzfTS_EjBn2KxGNX-71MaFZN5FNZkO6THsGoqMN0785seYyNgKIf7eov0GWBoQfkstKPy1cJ3Ar9HlY6mapKU/s1600/13770_942187716283_2089700279_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtM-AC61wtcXhWcku43lHHhp7OM7XZOkNr3l2mY1VpiT8jPnlozkqWXvfzfTS_EjBn2KxGNX-71MaFZN5FNZkO6THsGoqMN0785seYyNgKIf7eov0GWBoQfkstKPy1cJ3Ar9HlY6mapKU/s320/13770_942187716283_2089700279_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Christmas with friends </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzU0vRNTlFKJPWYBR6OYOZwKho0kq3CkjJpy-DAhw0mQVWQc4AcdUwsvZGbNWXUm7BfnwIyYz0W5ru5pqsGumgR-hC1ddaokGBgp_4-vfaH-6gSFdmbbgQukUkZk5lHqylIVpkUEZLDLL2/s1600/20582_942187856003_2011607713_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzU0vRNTlFKJPWYBR6OYOZwKho0kq3CkjJpy-DAhw0mQVWQc4AcdUwsvZGbNWXUm7BfnwIyYz0W5ru5pqsGumgR-hC1ddaokGBgp_4-vfaH-6gSFdmbbgQukUkZk5lHqylIVpkUEZLDLL2/s320/20582_942187856003_2011607713_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21sP5Z93oZ6Hb1_nfhpRXMJKE9Gp1vReifXBUygY7qCOz8-HbWoo3zW4YPOElJwGYoaeD10PWKtZcUnPGy4wjhfMh2wmyL5cjftSa0rA2Hq9ZhTs8Gk2zOW75s52cHq4pUQLhX0hNcFIz/s1600/224805_942187860993_1087158259_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21sP5Z93oZ6Hb1_nfhpRXMJKE9Gp1vReifXBUygY7qCOz8-HbWoo3zW4YPOElJwGYoaeD10PWKtZcUnPGy4wjhfMh2wmyL5cjftSa0rA2Hq9ZhTs8Gk2zOW75s52cHq4pUQLhX0hNcFIz/s320/224805_942187860993_1087158259_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-SP8_S6zWvO9zRpf10iRjWanHdTVKf5qVi9jTFymXWVTnET8fTlmOgAgjUKvhPCo28kUlUvdfe7S89WlUiy3gljIf2EWslMgniBP1J73_xQZKFHTfur6KpnSFMiAf8tWyGDyXiepIwkC/s1600/405990_942187691333_2003772800_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-SP8_S6zWvO9zRpf10iRjWanHdTVKf5qVi9jTFymXWVTnET8fTlmOgAgjUKvhPCo28kUlUvdfe7S89WlUiy3gljIf2EWslMgniBP1J73_xQZKFHTfur6KpnSFMiAf8tWyGDyXiepIwkC/s320/405990_942187691333_2003772800_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My wreath </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3yQxrxp7wsQxpSH2q6Y6D6-C06XUm-DuRo0mnP3HiChTdGakn_MXwxbDkQLne-k6hft_tODjMQ0YXynSyS2Mda_N_fve8Nhicc_cktx1pvmn8ZEd9C8CjSNr3z0AJLqUXrHVUaD1gbrf/s1600/545468_942187756203_1138505870_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3yQxrxp7wsQxpSH2q6Y6D6-C06XUm-DuRo0mnP3HiChTdGakn_MXwxbDkQLne-k6hft_tODjMQ0YXynSyS2Mda_N_fve8Nhicc_cktx1pvmn8ZEd9C8CjSNr3z0AJLqUXrHVUaD1gbrf/s320/545468_942187756203_1138505870_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J5DvJAvPDR9_2Wfw3FgzgHO_rBPmJr0apxRuEC9M_E-E03joN4CJxk9MN_eCWMPf1V1Xq4frOz9ySVwlxkU34GpqfCddl0igzM36lg7kXdebv2lcGXTvm98ETDFW39bEpL5BHOehG1Bu/s1600/553650_942187851013_266163873_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J5DvJAvPDR9_2Wfw3FgzgHO_rBPmJr0apxRuEC9M_E-E03joN4CJxk9MN_eCWMPf1V1Xq4frOz9ySVwlxkU34GpqfCddl0igzM36lg7kXdebv2lcGXTvm98ETDFW39bEpL5BHOehG1Bu/s320/553650_942187851013_266163873_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Christmas crackers! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We had a great time of Christmas
celebrations over here in a different part of the world, and are so
excited that every Christmas after this will be spent with our
greatest gift... our baby boy!
</div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-28774467430357450242012-12-31T23:25:00.000-08:002012-12-31T23:25:08.719-08:00Shop til you Drop<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
More catching up from the month of December!<br />
(December 3) <br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
During the National Day weekend, the
group of us girls from work decided to go shopping in Dubai. Some of
them knew of a place where you could get designer purses at a great
price, so bag shopping we went. We rode together to the Dubai Mall
and grabbed a snack at a coffee shop. (I was hungry... as usual).
Then we grabbed a taxi and were ready to go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVRgo8Y0B3Li7eIllZRs1a1ZxDVkKSDfAqaTOZjuGV0iTRV6m3_jqMH4wsM3tSEkDB9tZ9gEfRA5awilZGR7caD3QjrbYJqizdIm0ymrupOqbkfiX9g-7TMsxAcDOmiXXGiE9Trq95vpt/s1600/486935_933456623463_511177798_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVRgo8Y0B3Li7eIllZRs1a1ZxDVkKSDfAqaTOZjuGV0iTRV6m3_jqMH4wsM3tSEkDB9tZ9gEfRA5awilZGR7caD3QjrbYJqizdIm0ymrupOqbkfiX9g-7TMsxAcDOmiXXGiE9Trq95vpt/s320/486935_933456623463_511177798_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
When we found the shop the real
shopping began. First we looked around the store before we were shown
upstairs to the “other rooms.” One room lead to another, and you
had to duck under the ceiling to get between them. The ladies were
not happy with the selection though, so before you knew it we were
following someone to another place.
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We arrived at what looked like an
apartment complex and followed the guy to the elevator. All the other
ladies climbed in, but as soon as I stepped on the elevator buzzed at
me :( I had to take another one up. The guy told me it was messed up
but I felt a little large haha. Guess I maxed out the weight limit!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We walked down to a flat with three or
four rooms full of bags, purses, wallets, and more. I picked out an
Armani wallet for Shawn for Christmas and the girls picked out pretty
bags. Then we were off to another shop.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibCnDFt1YKkG-J8cNTCpnbRu5ycXlu_dmZQjoNKg8xWFU989c07ZjaxaKmP9hyphenhyphen_U3AJU2kt0mQW25xCIB39q_OQPeA6q2eyOGyrnCLVal1uD9Y9z5IlaK45b9hOyBHKXMlJQxi3B8jV8I/s1600/481486_933456628453_101334392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibCnDFt1YKkG-J8cNTCpnbRu5ycXlu_dmZQjoNKg8xWFU989c07ZjaxaKmP9hyphenhyphen_U3AJU2kt0mQW25xCIB39q_OQPeA6q2eyOGyrnCLVal1uD9Y9z5IlaK45b9hOyBHKXMlJQxi3B8jV8I/s320/481486_933456628453_101334392_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We followed the guy to another shop
where I found a Mulberry bag I liked. I had never heard of Mulberry,
but really liked the tree emblem. I found out later it is a really
good bag. When it was time to pay, the real fun began.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
My friend Samina helped me haggle for
the wallet and bag. She began to speak another language to the guy,
who spoke the same language, and she was good! It was amusing to
watch. She was talking really fast, and kept getting faster and
faster. She was pointing to me and waving her hands around, reminding
me of my Italian family! She finally talked them down for me, and you
could tell they were just ready to get us out of there haha. We went
back to the first shop, where she did the same thing to buy some
shoes. I am taking her everywhere with me to shop!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After we finished shopping we headed
back to the mall for lunch. We ate at the Rainforest Cafe, which was
fun. Then it was time to head home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2eIC4DUVJV2iIzGGoFoplRhRa-5t-tNaq8b3lDOTrt5dH4uUCGyhXNGgvtobLQOpTHMrzRFP8xRjOWO6CpAqT_54dHKEyuHSzG62K2sfqlqmn02mDWPgM2recYGsTaxkTLBt9x7jiJp5/s1600/480363_933457032643_1841700373_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2eIC4DUVJV2iIzGGoFoplRhRa-5t-tNaq8b3lDOTrt5dH4uUCGyhXNGgvtobLQOpTHMrzRFP8xRjOWO6CpAqT_54dHKEyuHSzG62K2sfqlqmn02mDWPgM2recYGsTaxkTLBt9x7jiJp5/s320/480363_933457032643_1841700373_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1mbDHOYhi67Uqm9rOtP14UJuj5mZJPD8GRpvMQyhg_r-yVQfGSH-uBUg09vz-e3cJhQzXJZIBmyhYoaeSF-Sw__z56RN3_7QVJ_RWNQnb2knraMnyrOf2oqYb0-wvROqT6qfcYAwTIYW/s1600/556721_933456947813_146019319_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1mbDHOYhi67Uqm9rOtP14UJuj5mZJPD8GRpvMQyhg_r-yVQfGSH-uBUg09vz-e3cJhQzXJZIBmyhYoaeSF-Sw__z56RN3_7QVJ_RWNQnb2knraMnyrOf2oqYb0-wvROqT6qfcYAwTIYW/s320/556721_933456947813_146019319_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsNYzr9DxxT1N1gRbhfcZrAl8MDzpGtHXqLJ88-lxvc_SNqZhtOHfF1OoJIFfBlicoNvz9Cy_TNV65c22GHtCrK80-ZQvwYoXzLDOHUOJdOERsBwxytmw84iEj916J4M_xyq6v-JU_wHt/s1600/399363_933457052603_1897870699_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsNYzr9DxxT1N1gRbhfcZrAl8MDzpGtHXqLJ88-lxvc_SNqZhtOHfF1OoJIFfBlicoNvz9Cy_TNV65c22GHtCrK80-ZQvwYoXzLDOHUOJdOERsBwxytmw84iEj916J4M_xyq6v-JU_wHt/s320/399363_933457052603_1897870699_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It was a fun girls day and a fun
experience. We will definitely be doing it again!
</div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-6821611133583731652012-12-02T08:01:00.000-08:002012-12-02T08:04:53.968-08:00Happy Birthday UAE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The biggest holiday here is not
Christmas, Easter, or even the Islamic holidays like Ramadan. It is
December 2<sup>nd</sup>.... National Day. Although it is similar to
our 4<sup>th</sup> of July, as in it is the day the UAE gained their
independence, it is celebrated like nothing I have never seen before.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQM6k31X1yAd1m23R5mccgD7lhyaFjqyHy383KRaetv2Dee1xsonyU4EESYZf5lEIYgtzePfqXrEnZRghkJCvRGnlRy5TZXsYGXiGm1fKoGsh9B7qWbvGeNyXmU6KyTRs6NEPSXjCOp7-/s1600/102_0855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQM6k31X1yAd1m23R5mccgD7lhyaFjqyHy383KRaetv2Dee1xsonyU4EESYZf5lEIYgtzePfqXrEnZRghkJCvRGnlRy5TZXsYGXiGm1fKoGsh9B7qWbvGeNyXmU6KyTRs6NEPSXjCOp7-/s400/102_0855.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A week before the actual holiday is
when the decorations start to come out. Huge 2 or 3 story flags are
hung over houses and building, lights are put up on all roundabouts
and streets, and my favorite... cars are decked out from hood to
trunk (boot). The lights are nice because they make us expats feel
like Christmas is here. The Emirati colors are red, green, black, and
red. Since black lights wouldn't work out so well, the lights up on
the streets are mostly red, green, and white.
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji42MAf8bS7e6TWNLO2vHQCmsLlOwU6mIhPBLV4sq2M91g9onE1n7Gkr-P6DVhmKbeXe_fhkxDP2YIenx2YH2L8To_iTOOllgBqGtzojW0VRnIJL_FV4ScaKmqTvxuPD4Uu7s7flA1W-fn/s1600/75280_4918226276407_1212172239_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji42MAf8bS7e6TWNLO2vHQCmsLlOwU6mIhPBLV4sq2M91g9onE1n7Gkr-P6DVhmKbeXe_fhkxDP2YIenx2YH2L8To_iTOOllgBqGtzojW0VRnIJL_FV4ScaKmqTvxuPD4Uu7s7flA1W-fn/s320/75280_4918226276407_1212172239_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A friend's mother took this picture</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The cars are a sight to see. They are
covered in stickers, glitter, flags, and of course all the Sheikh's
faces. Some may even argue that it borders on idol-ism here. I
haven't had my camera with me often enough, but here are some photos
my friends have taken of cars around the area.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_oHxst-j-R5shUdsAsqSJXdpXNoXfbiFbfmsQGZ3fYVdnvNNSQYffaqogpDXtYVL4seFZqBo74eRxRKUZCjl6W0S6C-lnIZJ7fRuyz9lzX2RfZScJect_jixvrXB_ZjL1Ap9ebcu9FKQ/s1600/30385_10151335549366189_1489250909_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_oHxst-j-R5shUdsAsqSJXdpXNoXfbiFbfmsQGZ3fYVdnvNNSQYffaqogpDXtYVL4seFZqBo74eRxRKUZCjl6W0S6C-lnIZJ7fRuyz9lzX2RfZScJect_jixvrXB_ZjL1Ap9ebcu9FKQ/s320/30385_10151335549366189_1489250909_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2f6AczAnhVIhQ5fmHGBNCu2sE8kftFJHZyaOo5BWs2oKfK_obFjGDLo_LLxdBj6OS0HDJugauLKdDbGaXeO-XJ5zPrB11oUNZHnTF73YzSyKtvw0094zt1sVkG2jkGfDFfuZL9MB87ja/s1600/305939_10101218472148923_1160139279_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2f6AczAnhVIhQ5fmHGBNCu2sE8kftFJHZyaOo5BWs2oKfK_obFjGDLo_LLxdBj6OS0HDJugauLKdDbGaXeO-XJ5zPrB11oUNZHnTF73YzSyKtvw0094zt1sVkG2jkGfDFfuZL9MB87ja/s320/305939_10101218472148923_1160139279_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMV-2nDFd3-qhSb80JcT4rCdljbufKgr83n-IJv-5CVc3n5sBwFkZ4IuVELIohIqrjAMu6fOq8VYqvNsOcGjma5N5bLJHoN7viurhBtq90GBdl0-_qO8ZX5El46CV8inEdQ-8eXJxj5GH/s1600/306039_440555009337777_997888061_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMV-2nDFd3-qhSb80JcT4rCdljbufKgr83n-IJv-5CVc3n5sBwFkZ4IuVELIohIqrjAMu6fOq8VYqvNsOcGjma5N5bLJHoN7viurhBtq90GBdl0-_qO8ZX5El46CV8inEdQ-8eXJxj5GH/s320/306039_440555009337777_997888061_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEx19uJgHSRxJifgwRLQt1kSknf0mymk75crHB7RIsAwbbRJVJQX_GOWLEM83S1xahmJQaoqQDAz92ldcwTqeMhFMs9L1Rpwfgq76Ws6XHHeK-fQH4rkRvQufhhCenIjVqY_K9JYz838r/s1600/images+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEx19uJgHSRxJifgwRLQt1kSknf0mymk75crHB7RIsAwbbRJVJQX_GOWLEM83S1xahmJQaoqQDAz92ldcwTqeMhFMs9L1Rpwfgq76Ws6XHHeK-fQH4rkRvQufhhCenIjVqY_K9JYz838r/s1600/images+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mBNHrEhu80b4GpKm6Nud9_LArpifRePtNd0s0LX4_93h3-hJQ85_vD_84Wei0aHRteWR78LDdgmVykUEKm8mnswpLUBkvEd3IpnjDE0auyJrKIoJHoFH2VxW_QPl1wCpf1hVYsctCLKd/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mBNHrEhu80b4GpKm6Nud9_LArpifRePtNd0s0LX4_93h3-hJQ85_vD_84Wei0aHRteWR78LDdgmVykUEKm8mnswpLUBkvEd3IpnjDE0auyJrKIoJHoFH2VxW_QPl1wCpf1hVYsctCLKd/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We get a nice long four day weekend off
for National Day, so the week before we had a celebration at school.
It was a very interesting cultural experience. We English teachers
were not told much. All we knew was that Monday was a celebration
day. The night before I picked out an outfit with the UAE colors.
Samina, a co-worker, had an outfit made.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mNYvRWgSUPywk3nu1d7p71itGEYLcdso1dY55wI_BEwZQT3EKcCeZcP_zuYZrYvW83dMM_-lZ-_3_Oodx8q13FAjKf8zTY3O8fCWT0Nq3h8OmJVs0Ydk-4y54KpumrE1nI_W7UoTRCRd/s1600/102_0845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mNYvRWgSUPywk3nu1d7p71itGEYLcdso1dY55wI_BEwZQT3EKcCeZcP_zuYZrYvW83dMM_-lZ-_3_Oodx8q13FAjKf8zTY3O8fCWT0Nq3h8OmJVs0Ydk-4y54KpumrE1nI_W7UoTRCRd/s320/102_0845.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When I arrived at school I was greeted
by beautiful dresses. The children normally wear uniforms, so this
was their day to go all out. They mostly either wore UAE colors or
fancy ballroom type dresses. Some of the older high-school girls took
advantage of the day and wore jeans and t-shirts with belts and
heels.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnT1ogt7gxUerfcX-uLVwnhjkr0EjEocGt6FoFUsyEiopZeiwdCWtzhyphenhyphenJX_zavw5Wi6ZeSHBYeZvqStWq6HuGUY4ImqBwP5XBPQH-1-0ywyMAE4B6UQGeGNi-RZUxccpDsc5VERequ507/s1600/102_0836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnT1ogt7gxUerfcX-uLVwnhjkr0EjEocGt6FoFUsyEiopZeiwdCWtzhyphenhyphenJX_zavw5Wi6ZeSHBYeZvqStWq6HuGUY4ImqBwP5XBPQH-1-0ywyMAE4B6UQGeGNi-RZUxccpDsc5VERequ507/s320/102_0836.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqEj9Ed5mUPoh8iV9LZxCiJBiwfCQE_CFdYWcAw7PcWMXUk4FGZm1E7Tu_lFMRrW08YTVlsXdduvY4rpXOFtNZBVN2Cj9M-wcqJZ7tbUnWuNy3StPdKPzWksR5THFFIbmX6fBMyQ4Aj_R/s1600/102_0837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqEj9Ed5mUPoh8iV9LZxCiJBiwfCQE_CFdYWcAw7PcWMXUk4FGZm1E7Tu_lFMRrW08YTVlsXdduvY4rpXOFtNZBVN2Cj9M-wcqJZ7tbUnWuNy3StPdKPzWksR5THFFIbmX6fBMyQ4Aj_R/s320/102_0837.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC96TlJaJ5y6Mut8hggywdez8IehWQlVf0-qtElx2QWfTVGr3lkhTs7NRazkte5BLSZ-3IujXM0IBZjqwleHOGsIwrG5hXedg8yvQMui8e0AmNN4xqFWNS_JSXuDu_zAjocJj6MNpbyXk8/s1600/102_0839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC96TlJaJ5y6Mut8hggywdez8IehWQlVf0-qtElx2QWfTVGr3lkhTs7NRazkte5BLSZ-3IujXM0IBZjqwleHOGsIwrG5hXedg8yvQMui8e0AmNN4xqFWNS_JSXuDu_zAjocJj6MNpbyXk8/s320/102_0839.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7A_kNVxqIUT5bVjIcTqqG2HfHp-n0uPajPRW-vsNQxIwA4UrA9J7bkn8UAgM_atll0fwTrmE1oaRUWx2RHlxhcda3lTTs-3zWn5j11w5tRDtDpimjv6MiS76091SDLmeRFtuyWx4JKUl/s1600/102_0840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7A_kNVxqIUT5bVjIcTqqG2HfHp-n0uPajPRW-vsNQxIwA4UrA9J7bkn8UAgM_atll0fwTrmE1oaRUWx2RHlxhcda3lTTs-3zWn5j11w5tRDtDpimjv6MiS76091SDLmeRFtuyWx4JKUl/s320/102_0840.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5F06EnIMCXSo1fRuQbVpbc5Na8AUgbyTCeOhbHxI7mlj3bhjWZFwDCeRc-gejG8-dPOdQm40qdqgkuUvuEtVetK43_po2wPHMNe1mW0UtSJ08ha1fDLBqZ280BX_Jw6bEx5BCWHAmWTt/s1600/102_0842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5F06EnIMCXSo1fRuQbVpbc5Na8AUgbyTCeOhbHxI7mlj3bhjWZFwDCeRc-gejG8-dPOdQm40qdqgkuUvuEtVetK43_po2wPHMNe1mW0UtSJ08ha1fDLBqZ280BX_Jw6bEx5BCWHAmWTt/s320/102_0842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHSfAtVjo19yg544KhXiOWHokQdqgZlVOSredJuD-miTpq2d6nhGaMWrX5DJ4_xidUWdKsNbW7Ol3STn_yJJLdPZCRofy7s2Jt40b5h356BolYTpWWEpXSyu0kVoH2Fqpv89xmu4OU1AQS/s1600/102_0843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHSfAtVjo19yg544KhXiOWHokQdqgZlVOSredJuD-miTpq2d6nhGaMWrX5DJ4_xidUWdKsNbW7Ol3STn_yJJLdPZCRofy7s2Jt40b5h356BolYTpWWEpXSyu0kVoH2Fqpv89xmu4OU1AQS/s320/102_0843.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUJutGk4bIbV-0msWGI1qtyE1OKd__bDSX1QqA-SDCXCQ1iw9_IPiG4ysShKVm83s3oKCoaACQzMp5rdUsacpflZPCfbC-lKyLgaTvp168z56VFmA2qiYxo9ER1PsrWM_P7uVaR0iEQ00/s1600/102_0847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUJutGk4bIbV-0msWGI1qtyE1OKd__bDSX1QqA-SDCXCQ1iw9_IPiG4ysShKVm83s3oKCoaACQzMp5rdUsacpflZPCfbC-lKyLgaTvp168z56VFmA2qiYxo9ER1PsrWM_P7uVaR0iEQ00/s320/102_0847.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7FUKGbK-u8syqGRt-DgPgFtmi7vW9xl-fwvYPARDn0O_L3HDEz6alseTg-tbgzrmFPEG_95v3NYK4ay6TOw8KPis7dXpSmeEAsZLtTPNi3PqVrGyNK6KE7GM_MNRYhUTRE8LJXSUWDQB/s1600/102_0859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7FUKGbK-u8syqGRt-DgPgFtmi7vW9xl-fwvYPARDn0O_L3HDEz6alseTg-tbgzrmFPEG_95v3NYK4ay6TOw8KPis7dXpSmeEAsZLtTPNi3PqVrGyNK6KE7GM_MNRYhUTRE8LJXSUWDQB/s320/102_0859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuccgXAiYvHkqMc2hW6D8GYF2crHNWjat9zILMcVC2fsSAYrxackGFsxCLLJU2Vm5x5Jjh-DRuRJpymACJeEvmUU6oLknW80tI5AaH8MYduV9WJz8HZfnD6XAOSaLUuJDPK00bQJWu7KKT/s1600/102_0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuccgXAiYvHkqMc2hW6D8GYF2crHNWjat9zILMcVC2fsSAYrxackGFsxCLLJU2Vm5x5Jjh-DRuRJpymACJeEvmUU6oLknW80tI5AaH8MYduV9WJz8HZfnD6XAOSaLUuJDPK00bQJWu7KKT/s320/102_0868.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3Invrq9Jl22RGiGiUGrL4Nmegbtb3K7gxxXZJofhoXNhi_trklGwZyrnVXnExCsMhUeXWgML5-ipj9-Ilx3BQQpUufY7fKdj9qI9B0Ic_epa8r-7IJOrjJZZMQIkcC4H8SBuZpDr-ylB/s1600/102_0869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3Invrq9Jl22RGiGiUGrL4Nmegbtb3K7gxxXZJofhoXNhi_trklGwZyrnVXnExCsMhUeXWgML5-ipj9-Ilx3BQQpUufY7fKdj9qI9B0Ic_epa8r-7IJOrjJZZMQIkcC4H8SBuZpDr-ylB/s320/102_0869.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEaCERPCwTITnP0aBuI5N7r6P8YX3JfDHbRv58kwoL-P4_otQ_rkhhGQWUYuhfLL5sagjsOCuoVotKiM64Q_6na1s8-v0zdsPyKKATajBz2sLmLF7kKM0mQ6WU3zr1saDzRr-xaqTclpDz/s1600/102_0870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEaCERPCwTITnP0aBuI5N7r6P8YX3JfDHbRv58kwoL-P4_otQ_rkhhGQWUYuhfLL5sagjsOCuoVotKiM64Q_6na1s8-v0zdsPyKKATajBz2sLmLF7kKM0mQ6WU3zr1saDzRr-xaqTclpDz/s320/102_0870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6SIjmo1UB1KFOFXwVHV0YEOtLBSghRxHzZa64K2N5ShsAUYNr6NK5nFWUyoGZ852xs5ZZSt7dglTRStDqPDiwjwLlapOW4tfBV427JGWVjmF_spWsjPXmaos4LNuZhHUTy8knP3X1zdE/s1600/102_0873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6SIjmo1UB1KFOFXwVHV0YEOtLBSghRxHzZa64K2N5ShsAUYNr6NK5nFWUyoGZ852xs5ZZSt7dglTRStDqPDiwjwLlapOW4tfBV427JGWVjmF_spWsjPXmaos4LNuZhHUTy8knP3X1zdE/s320/102_0873.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't forget the henna</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxtDjmy1Zs7qeCwCOqQh9zftdyp74X1yylAfpZC6JexD-RB-UEgP2AZxAzdB5c_VuPSZwnrhgKRXZmweTgP_p5-g9J0l8ON8ynjh76IQVa8EUcN6A1RAB4Y8ib3Za-QEEQB_hbkEJl5jl/s1600/102_0900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxtDjmy1Zs7qeCwCOqQh9zftdyp74X1yylAfpZC6JexD-RB-UEgP2AZxAzdB5c_VuPSZwnrhgKRXZmweTgP_p5-g9J0l8ON8ynjh76IQVa8EUcN6A1RAB4Y8ib3Za-QEEQB_hbkEJl5jl/s320/102_0900.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The first hour or so nothing happened.
The girls wandered around the courtyard and chatted with friends
while we sat upstairs in our workroom. Finally, after 10am, we
started to get settled in the courtyard. A lot of mothers came to
watch and soon the dancing started.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8T2MoCYEPPuSoO4YbDleW5kA-SM7-Lf-mZWSyANBcGrjwqbiejLSgBkjq-tNZjPVp1xjLHhWadEPRBBvxgU8SKTWj0rJ6VZzxZJdoE0Hh_YxQpr6sH7N9TOJpb4odnIudWnnK3fmTiVEZ/s1600/102_0860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8T2MoCYEPPuSoO4YbDleW5kA-SM7-Lf-mZWSyANBcGrjwqbiejLSgBkjq-tNZjPVp1xjLHhWadEPRBBvxgU8SKTWj0rJ6VZzxZJdoE0Hh_YxQpr6sH7N9TOJpb4odnIudWnnK3fmTiVEZ/s320/102_0860.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mothers waiting</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The most traditional dance it seems
that the girls do here is the hair dance. I could teach this to you
in about 2 seconds (although the girls left class for the past two
weeks to go practice). Basically, you whip your hair to the side,
shake your head, and whip it to the other side. Although there were
many “dances” with different girls and costumes, all basically
consisted of the hair whip. There were a few cane twirls and hand
movements mixed in. There were also girls dressed as boys with fake
guns to do the boys part of the dance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtiwlFiOzfo_gMcaLLnFyII0_hqcDudjZyU0SgNjJ5n5q0Z8zLQhY3UO-cxGH4_nlkSHvk5F290X_tEhd6EOvnqqZihc-2wCXPwIMH2johmgn71jvl7Idmc7qnaElXJS20vT8JzgSeuvE/s1600/102_0882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtiwlFiOzfo_gMcaLLnFyII0_hqcDudjZyU0SgNjJ5n5q0Z8zLQhY3UO-cxGH4_nlkSHvk5F290X_tEhd6EOvnqqZihc-2wCXPwIMH2johmgn71jvl7Idmc7qnaElXJS20vT8JzgSeuvE/s320/102_0882.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34kWQQoVcX9NSURifuZQDPKx5dbODmgz4nIpzZ9hqT7-2b0Nvg8QXNo2L-OsEKxf2JB6BXu3IWnxt5R2IwA85AH_sxUuharm97iI9OYiWi8cnQWGev9lzUM_x2SfhbvBdb4aorB4yXysh/s1600/102_0888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34kWQQoVcX9NSURifuZQDPKx5dbODmgz4nIpzZ9hqT7-2b0Nvg8QXNo2L-OsEKxf2JB6BXu3IWnxt5R2IwA85AH_sxUuharm97iI9OYiWi8cnQWGev9lzUM_x2SfhbvBdb4aorB4yXysh/s320/102_0888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some Arabic cartoon characters</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitofdTntoJjANdaurGjxKHkMPylmbQ31ZatPZ8YY2G53Mmuxx-3VTn6zSq6ulBzRc3vmXKAmDSpebQpLkMGTKpFGbR8rbpgzcgoVL7NdeEwmUepJqIeca2FQhIxuH2WMi7O2Ha8XpDp3bc/s1600/102_0893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitofdTntoJjANdaurGjxKHkMPylmbQ31ZatPZ8YY2G53Mmuxx-3VTn6zSq6ulBzRc3vmXKAmDSpebQpLkMGTKpFGbR8rbpgzcgoVL7NdeEwmUepJqIeca2FQhIxuH2WMi7O2Ha8XpDp3bc/s320/102_0893.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSNTIncFSzqgbJBJL0D5PpC_HVX9syQhSi1mxj6eEc2g7UbltDc3_-xlIcNdmoJFuRoq0eSlskpwuqeEf_XlarAUOxB3GR-Dk7AieFSakPKKN6OQ-_IF-0ExtWUuO1iMbJKf5AXicjL4bK/s1600/102_0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSNTIncFSzqgbJBJL0D5PpC_HVX9syQhSi1mxj6eEc2g7UbltDc3_-xlIcNdmoJFuRoq0eSlskpwuqeEf_XlarAUOxB3GR-Dk7AieFSakPKKN6OQ-_IF-0ExtWUuO1iMbJKf5AXicjL4bK/s320/102_0904.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEV43AdJz9rnfdOCBel3lbMIp2EafaxqvxalvuR6yLd_n3oDlodDwAI2kzbT4yMWqwRRp6N8ZIZB6CyTEe9tePYCe2Tj22r-Db89MZrj-rs0JF2sN6VaxRO07yec6eVKwZSkdGHkYMR3i/s1600/102_0907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEV43AdJz9rnfdOCBel3lbMIp2EafaxqvxalvuR6yLd_n3oDlodDwAI2kzbT4yMWqwRRp6N8ZIZB6CyTEe9tePYCe2Tj22r-Db89MZrj-rs0JF2sN6VaxRO07yec6eVKwZSkdGHkYMR3i/s320/102_0907.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After the party... they always leave a mess!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Although it was neat to see the girls
dance, I am not surprised to tell you that it was very disorganized.
There was no plan, program, or structure to the whole thing.
Apparently even the Arabic teachers were annoyed with the
disorganization. At one point, we were asked if we had programs
ready. Of course we were not told anything beforehand, so no I had
nothing prepared.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
While the girls danced, the cleaners at
the school handed out chocolate, tea, coffee, water, and more. The
chocolate was very yummy!
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSLXEVjiUdElUk0-sXi4C_Ynuc8eyiHCAzTHVukLPAIRrZuwTEMs3b7vhCI1UrYfa1KcdXNDvC3DAhwa13LYUTKKZ9VMhSXvldSHVoTd2nvaQc6iazP2T9HFR-Eu08Ndy6e4KrSXnZ9D8/s1600/102_0875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSLXEVjiUdElUk0-sXi4C_Ynuc8eyiHCAzTHVukLPAIRrZuwTEMs3b7vhCI1UrYfa1KcdXNDvC3DAhwa13LYUTKKZ9VMhSXvldSHVoTd2nvaQc6iazP2T9HFR-Eu08Ndy6e4KrSXnZ9D8/s320/102_0875.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chocolate</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZQH9lkzWpGRdozokSBfNScebkxd1mpNSUSmoLokFn1VdAxf6RIOmdpxFRXJ1jAOHAXJ73NT9laBeZExOD0c6EhWHUbLn-Ww6OSvMlHjMmxI6OSjo5KL-DDgk-IFKAJ5Uzm89XBMsTfRx/s1600/102_0849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZQH9lkzWpGRdozokSBfNScebkxd1mpNSUSmoLokFn1VdAxf6RIOmdpxFRXJ1jAOHAXJ73NT9laBeZExOD0c6EhWHUbLn-Ww6OSvMlHjMmxI6OSjo5KL-DDgk-IFKAJ5Uzm89XBMsTfRx/s320/102_0849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A baby falcon also made an appearance </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After a free-for-all dance time at the
end, things started to wrap up and students headed home. The English
teachers headed up-stairs... and can you believe it... we actually
tried to get some work done. After awhile we were called downstairs
though for the teacher lunch-in. When we told the others we were
upstairs working, they were a little shocked. We were told this was a
day for no-working. Love it haha!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After Monday and the celebrations, the
attendance dropped quickly. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday I only
had 3 girls in my grade 2 classroom. I also lost grade 3 girls each
day, going from 10, to 7, to 6. They let all the girls go home at
noon on Wednesday and Thursday. I must say I am settling into the
relaxed life here. I still do my best, but there is no use stressing
about things I can't control.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
On an end note, it rained here in
Friday. It was a real rain, lasting all day. Someone said it is the
first time it has rained since June. They are not prepared for rain
here at all, so the roads flooded. Shawn went out to get his hair cut
(side note: he got a haircut, nose trim, beard trim and shave, and a
back rub for $13). I just enjoyed the rain from my flat. We were
supposed to do maternity pictures that day... so of course it rained
:) Oh well!!!
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjxsift-OphRN63WZqIYwDKLvnOn1uMtUlx9XDZbY5bQ4Ew1M9jtEbPb3vnJV91d1mhcp8kpjBbFm4sOoWg1ceUEQa1V9EXNwZM2byKJRv0Qrm5lB713_MoKic7V3E_4x6AjOJhzLu7lx/s1600/35916_4734358924176_907128263_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjxsift-OphRN63WZqIYwDKLvnOn1uMtUlx9XDZbY5bQ4Ew1M9jtEbPb3vnJV91d1mhcp8kpjBbFm4sOoWg1ceUEQa1V9EXNwZM2byKJRv0Qrm5lB713_MoKic7V3E_4x6AjOJhzLu7lx/s320/35916_4734358924176_907128263_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A friend's picture in Dubai</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYEf_qd0RBWfowNz9y9NbyXB_fJxuDLSz90lrmbmWPOWdBaWCvKOoZFEICFYzClUqaDTFos5AlegJ2fa-lJjtNU03EKpl9c9pYWPNwONL0ju8hjTmxbxELzpfj9_bCaHTx39VCJTPjwSB/s1600/73823_931361202703_1246706620_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYEf_qd0RBWfowNz9y9NbyXB_fJxuDLSz90lrmbmWPOWdBaWCvKOoZFEICFYzClUqaDTFos5AlegJ2fa-lJjtNU03EKpl9c9pYWPNwONL0ju8hjTmxbxELzpfj9_bCaHTx39VCJTPjwSB/s320/73823_931361202703_1246706620_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Outside our window</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I will be spending the actual National
Day hanging out at home. I heard it can pretty crazy and dangerous
out there, so I am not in the mood to deal with that. We also don't
have a car for a few days as a new one from the rental company is
coming in. Hopefully we will buy our own by the end of the month.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So there you have it, happy 41<sup>st</sup>
birthday to the UAE!!! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzwqYQbaCQD8RsypVHwq1Iegn2WkO8p8NCgr069I28pVDycWoKLo12tjgQ6p_HuCSPrZboiKRLCL4XTuIolqA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dancing, singing, and incense </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwvebsgAoSH85jd3s8tMHh5l3sc6fSgGIYVIwfJYOgrZrnL9IRNeOicZ08jGR7RqugF5q8vZkZpKm6GvnAVHA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lights!!!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-39222917395349123992012-12-02T01:12:00.001-08:002012-12-02T01:12:58.456-08:00Gobble Gobble!!! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Just a quick post to show how we spent
our Thanksgiving.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Even though we are far from home, we
were able to bring a little bit of home to the UAE. Our friends Shon
and Jenia hosted Thanksgiving dinner at their place Thanksgiving
evening and it was nice to spend time together as an Al Ain family. Friends from when we first arrived were there as well as new friends we just met recently. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We did it potluck style, everyone
bringing a dish they would like to eat for Thanksgiving. Shawn and I made
green bean casserole and some pilgrim hats I found on Pinterest. I had to improvise the cookies because I couldn't find the same kind here (Fudge Stripes). The first kind I tried crumbled all over the place, but I finally figured it out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaakpSlJ1NMLQzatCj_rkZv4giQBe2kTpJ6kHMwSbvLU3eQXmRPRVm_IUs4sBGvX_kBPCZvlYL9dOhSuwy4QvTwO48EAzRFkeoBOm7KkOvXHX7ox8BW9TQnfqNE4ABS7PbaVkazJ4bjUr1/s1600/IMG_8440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaakpSlJ1NMLQzatCj_rkZv4giQBe2kTpJ6kHMwSbvLU3eQXmRPRVm_IUs4sBGvX_kBPCZvlYL9dOhSuwy4QvTwO48EAzRFkeoBOm7KkOvXHX7ox8BW9TQnfqNE4ABS7PbaVkazJ4bjUr1/s320/IMG_8440.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Qn8neUdy3ri9CK5fXfDyXiNKtEbdzEQf7eTxoyUbQy0Sap36EBikMUflFMnNniOqpKZk2dkLtAnzt27Xt7xrVW2fvfUIqCq6h5x8xH54_IZ_QWXd_Y73wYpnWtubmEYqeO5UzoFOOcqQ/s1600/IMG_8441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Qn8neUdy3ri9CK5fXfDyXiNKtEbdzEQf7eTxoyUbQy0Sap36EBikMUflFMnNniOqpKZk2dkLtAnzt27Xt7xrVW2fvfUIqCq6h5x8xH54_IZ_QWXd_Y73wYpnWtubmEYqeO5UzoFOOcqQ/s320/IMG_8441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
casserole cooking</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Among the food we had mashed potatoes, pasta salad, deviled eggs, bread, veggies, salads, and pasta. It was delicious. There was pudding, cake, and even homemade pumpkin pie for dessert.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3JY7W1h11Xy2VNwZQE0tFXIO2OjRWjf7RZNi-tMrYho3Lo1n4Lw7yjtxQJVbJb09pYONlNqMtuB608RSq3BQ3T6aGWFbhWpNaNGAoEfrBXlgVFyWoYzuCh17caFjr2cUnHsmpvFa7uW5/s1600/IMG_8443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3JY7W1h11Xy2VNwZQE0tFXIO2OjRWjf7RZNi-tMrYho3Lo1n4Lw7yjtxQJVbJb09pYONlNqMtuB608RSq3BQ3T6aGWFbhWpNaNGAoEfrBXlgVFyWoYzuCh17caFjr2cUnHsmpvFa7uW5/s320/IMG_8443.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9njrFhJXa9TAgKLxaqYJcS3q_ggRhghN9cz4_WImHYQeMLGUSA5AOPc3SWEnntCD6yg-sZDeUuvcE6imXg8JiL6r7fHpn7VquLJGVirMdR3SIwX5yfNTUuyCXu0xrJRRUF7ZNjvycPVc/s1600/IMG_8447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9njrFhJXa9TAgKLxaqYJcS3q_ggRhghN9cz4_WImHYQeMLGUSA5AOPc3SWEnntCD6yg-sZDeUuvcE6imXg8JiL6r7fHpn7VquLJGVirMdR3SIwX5yfNTUuyCXu0xrJRRUF7ZNjvycPVc/s320/IMG_8447.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
YUM!!!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMYX5fo5Wo1RC3B65vsuOEWmSnyaIF0JHMkg1W01ey2hQoaf_fb3ovEqY2baNLwAdA3VX5YP8KBZAUcSweu82YrgnmxZ-4GlSZW8eTzDaY69bXKWONn_wjc3oz4xc4RYT6nJJSHPnGGeY/s1600/IMG_8444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMYX5fo5Wo1RC3B65vsuOEWmSnyaIF0JHMkg1W01ey2hQoaf_fb3ovEqY2baNLwAdA3VX5YP8KBZAUcSweu82YrgnmxZ-4GlSZW8eTzDaY69bXKWONn_wjc3oz4xc4RYT6nJJSHPnGGeY/s320/IMG_8444.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />Even though I missed my family back
home, it was a great evening of time spent around the table laughing.
We are so blessed to have this network or friends and support here
across the world... I am truly thankful for this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQKoXJ1z7F4fSQNDE6CLLTB3LNYHaaBM0MwrijiZiy5WHi0u4zomm9nPWQ65U5MPxsE9EtOkATwc5VLa_pj1BG7eN7-4yELpqlbHVZ6xrx6AndHqQTqSCL9wa3i7cm46RQFEwhcHFXrRI/s1600/IMG_8442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQKoXJ1z7F4fSQNDE6CLLTB3LNYHaaBM0MwrijiZiy5WHi0u4zomm9nPWQ65U5MPxsE9EtOkATwc5VLa_pj1BG7eN7-4yELpqlbHVZ6xrx6AndHqQTqSCL9wa3i7cm46RQFEwhcHFXrRI/s320/IMG_8442.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcQOF3lz7E0joAf8dpl9iFR031-6mGOuKg8N8eUepRF5xaLu9tajBwpcqrMVBOo_1aC-ufbjRQBmPeV3m1qYJ_EAVL4zQ4FtYLLoZUO18iaIHg0MSpZja0uX7Gq75CV0RRk0mrbrGf_bi/s1600/IMG_8446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcQOF3lz7E0joAf8dpl9iFR031-6mGOuKg8N8eUepRF5xaLu9tajBwpcqrMVBOo_1aC-ufbjRQBmPeV3m1qYJ_EAVL4zQ4FtYLLoZUO18iaIHg0MSpZja0uX7Gq75CV0RRk0mrbrGf_bi/s320/IMG_8446.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
kid's table</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEila24HLN91FcFs8HwsHkqCqLFzi4f8zeQuLwGs2Y7AgNtEYK4rAAL8_tmbEaIA7Eb-nkh8W5vvdQH-W7F7kGFFvHqzb1RlAXUqHEhMa8jmvbfRis2YxiHLZkNlctkgI4Ieyhb9umbjSFzq/s1600/IMG_8448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEila24HLN91FcFs8HwsHkqCqLFzi4f8zeQuLwGs2Y7AgNtEYK4rAAL8_tmbEaIA7Eb-nkh8W5vvdQH-W7F7kGFFvHqzb1RlAXUqHEhMa8jmvbfRis2YxiHLZkNlctkgI4Ieyhb9umbjSFzq/s320/IMG_8448.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shawn was excited about pumpkin pie</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8nrnsUe432yTy8_ey2JIg5ibEn-pen-z8MsRRLx0FiM-PBbPzB6V5JOBEXAcFok0H4Cs_2m-GfSTQnEhAS2OI9N_JPLxkCXurHyP2ddL0GVYM1E0j0KaL3Imv3KZEiv6wEEpGZReaT-u/s1600/IMG_8449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8nrnsUe432yTy8_ey2JIg5ibEn-pen-z8MsRRLx0FiM-PBbPzB6V5JOBEXAcFok0H4Cs_2m-GfSTQnEhAS2OI9N_JPLxkCXurHyP2ddL0GVYM1E0j0KaL3Imv3KZEiv6wEEpGZReaT-u/s320/IMG_8449.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Next up... Christmas in the desert :) </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-72269619409869305742012-11-22T22:58:00.001-08:002012-11-22T22:58:33.551-08:00Emirati Style! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Not to long ago had the opportunity to
go to an Emitati house. It was a great cultural experience.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
While at school, we were told that
afterward, a group of teachers were heading to the house of a
co-worker to celebrate her return from Hajji, the pilgrimage to Mecca
Muslims' must make at least once in their lifetime.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Four of us English teachers headed
over, following some other teachers up the road. The house was not
far from our school, in the little desert community that surrounds
it. The house (villa) was anything but little.
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Y3qyp6j6Q6MbVzV6LPOxHaYs7Q1AlaC9rQ3jMSFhoxAM-1FuslsnxJQ7CeVmFHNgjgsPevEO1WJiDRCCGEET1QWPg3BfCf529vvb3wHSVcwSs7sEKyBfJpoRRTKPOu0K5XeRA3Y9QTvK/s1600/542709_10152255317255724_258594602_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Y3qyp6j6Q6MbVzV6LPOxHaYs7Q1AlaC9rQ3jMSFhoxAM-1FuslsnxJQ7CeVmFHNgjgsPevEO1WJiDRCCGEET1QWPg3BfCf529vvb3wHSVcwSs7sEKyBfJpoRRTKPOu0K5XeRA3Y9QTvK/s320/542709_10152255317255724_258594602_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The villa</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we entered the beautiful hallway
we were greeted by family members and ushered into a large reception
room on our right. The room was elaborate... with sofas lining the
walls, paintings on the walls, beautiful window treatments, and
tables at every sofa loaded with fruit, dates, and treats.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDMzQOq_i9DtHZuRp0d6wW6JUz-7RFWKzCsqwihQFAfOIjpBtuDpHMdXolPxdz_Fbvmjq2mY9ngUUqb9UEe_kFJ8Ebb6-Azh2nJbFiH09pxFJoLJDS47UdOqq_d7k5reSp2WdfjlBseQh/s1600/249235_10152255317075724_1265451133_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDMzQOq_i9DtHZuRp0d6wW6JUz-7RFWKzCsqwihQFAfOIjpBtuDpHMdXolPxdz_Fbvmjq2mY9ngUUqb9UEe_kFJ8Ebb6-Azh2nJbFiH09pxFJoLJDS47UdOqq_d7k5reSp2WdfjlBseQh/s320/249235_10152255317075724_1265451133_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We found a seat on some sofas and soon
the parade of hospitality began. We were brought coffee, tea,
cookies, chocolate, more coffee, more tea, cappuccino, perfume, oils,
and even frankincense; which was held under our hair and clothing. We
ate and chatted for a bit, but one of the teachers needed to get
going so we tried to say our goodbyes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-1Wx-zoh9rAeKk_RyDJTDxIdWYOZaFYmxgYzRw4DdJz3cZ-0i0qbuwxLTm9JQglUZUQcvScUi25fAf0a16dnZ4ClcdTTQ65S8l3tsuXSUG0eJLdrLw9f7fwayDscY5nJmwVzWwh7OmU72/s1600/304347_10152255317050724_1819062994_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-1Wx-zoh9rAeKk_RyDJTDxIdWYOZaFYmxgYzRw4DdJz3cZ-0i0qbuwxLTm9JQglUZUQcvScUi25fAf0a16dnZ4ClcdTTQ65S8l3tsuXSUG0eJLdrLw9f7fwayDscY5nJmwVzWwh7OmU72/s320/304347_10152255317050724_1819062994_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coffee and tea</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIMrEkhsKps10g2lYXiJJFmd0QdRg4I12_7y86rH9LUCC2nPkFb9lA1ghlimwGPJPKXQKGK3cCUUlZaRJFgqmYgD_17f5XBJ_Mw0tDfBztMqAB2Y6P3ipwyrBZNs_5d7oIuo30ASGSEG4/s1600/530752_10152255316935724_1855729762_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIMrEkhsKps10g2lYXiJJFmd0QdRg4I12_7y86rH9LUCC2nPkFb9lA1ghlimwGPJPKXQKGK3cCUUlZaRJFgqmYgD_17f5XBJ_Mw0tDfBztMqAB2Y6P3ipwyrBZNs_5d7oIuo30ASGSEG4/s320/530752_10152255316935724_1855729762_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJN7vv6yev1OjTnu5f3K5x4DNydIVpOSPSz28ewJyNbykpf26xUrrhxlxo_IplzNgrkHrNKg4ff9HLu3ILyXhZEOX6d46NRi8Xdiv7-gUVfNH7yC8A4fdyTPBVC8h_JmKTutRlisSTiwi/s1600/521835_10152255316840724_1684336254_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJN7vv6yev1OjTnu5f3K5x4DNydIVpOSPSz28ewJyNbykpf26xUrrhxlxo_IplzNgrkHrNKg4ff9HLu3ILyXhZEOX6d46NRi8Xdiv7-gUVfNH7yC8A4fdyTPBVC8h_JmKTutRlisSTiwi/s320/521835_10152255316840724_1684336254_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yum!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0J29RmpreEXkViM-csOZjYE_TguahWXGMhHJlAlI5aiqSaw_4DPbtWrumVMLfp25cA-B01craKBQwQCubCGuoby35SWJmIY9UfsLeSsqdhXKqaE3EXh0O1_xRCyOyoXYTH9vX2UAJ9ns/s1600/552173_10152255317185724_524530533_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0J29RmpreEXkViM-csOZjYE_TguahWXGMhHJlAlI5aiqSaw_4DPbtWrumVMLfp25cA-B01craKBQwQCubCGuoby35SWJmIY9UfsLeSsqdhXKqaE3EXh0O1_xRCyOyoXYTH9vX2UAJ9ns/s320/552173_10152255317185724_524530533_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chocolate with a miniature Kaaba (cube). It is found at mecca. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The next thing we knew the beautiful
wooden doors with stained glass above them across the hall opened to
reveal an enormous spread of food on the floor. It was another
reception room and we were ushered in there, being told we couldn't
leave until we ate “lunch.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This was an amazing cultural
experience. We all sat on the floor around the food and began to eat.
There was a huge platter with rice and goat (including the head).
There was hummus and meat and even lobster. The women were throwing
food to each other across the carpet, laughing and sharing stories in
Arabic. They kept trying to feed me and Charlotte the goat (the
vegetarians!)
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQkrXZ_4DDo92GiYdQHs7zEok0zV-k6kZvwKVbuGj2inB6LT-Jvd88yvIxx-ME4KEdGZQAesktWVdnBCpRspoJ9p1SjACFfL8lBIJTMoLg-AOML0K2uCn3m0Qh-cDDUv6Qs3nkTw-gBukR/s1600/523580_10152255316520724_874401637_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQkrXZ_4DDo92GiYdQHs7zEok0zV-k6kZvwKVbuGj2inB6LT-Jvd88yvIxx-ME4KEdGZQAesktWVdnBCpRspoJ9p1SjACFfL8lBIJTMoLg-AOML0K2uCn3m0Qh-cDDUv6Qs3nkTw-gBukR/s400/523580_10152255316520724_874401637_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCowWsXOjuUwVP5xRytNhjhrDv77YcaaJsanHiLScNfSXUd6cIyAuOMoXp8AYgZFMgmbpdvDY11vmH3T9D9CbLzlrSICmA7nslr4piYCkxfpcLZsZ9YmxSwu0azO1rS4Gbgt2CLt5Rudk0/s1600/47410_10152255316620724_806021963_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCowWsXOjuUwVP5xRytNhjhrDv77YcaaJsanHiLScNfSXUd6cIyAuOMoXp8AYgZFMgmbpdvDY11vmH3T9D9CbLzlrSICmA7nslr4piYCkxfpcLZsZ9YmxSwu0azO1rS4Gbgt2CLt5Rudk0/s320/47410_10152255316620724_806021963_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After awhile we finished eating,
brought our plates to a small table, and went to wash our hands in
the beautiful bathroom. We then tried again to say our goodbyes as we
were ushered back into the other room. There we sat and were once
again given chocolate, coffee, tea, and more. We finally thanked the
family and snuck our way out the door. We would have loved to see the
rest of the house, but I don't think that would be appropriate for us
to ask. Even so, it was a great experience.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I also had the opportunity to go to
another wedding. It was very similar to the last one, with tons of
good food, lots of music, people dancing, and watching the men
outside on TV. I left early because it was a school night and I can
not make it very late, so I missed the part where the men came in for
the bride and danced. It still was another great cultural experience.
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJD1_gaU1u1u-TRhY43JWK42-6wihS867rZbpilAVJqnIPspF35f3HyS-2KIBDbhxwGbKxhWGGVR3iPtSlookSV8-Jv5GbUhQ3sINrcUcjvWLvKUDwI3oq6T1rZgCDITE0PCBLMZ5y8jj/s1600/21642_10152271613260724_1682954053_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJD1_gaU1u1u-TRhY43JWK42-6wihS867rZbpilAVJqnIPspF35f3HyS-2KIBDbhxwGbKxhWGGVR3iPtSlookSV8-Jv5GbUhQ3sINrcUcjvWLvKUDwI3oq6T1rZgCDITE0PCBLMZ5y8jj/s320/21642_10152271613260724_1682954053_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Invite to the wedding. Notice the no camera,cellphone, and couples symbols.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2SeD36PKKwnoztibe03wnuEPAM4Sz-H-t8YK7GZow5QFAmfpuVoImZQsma3PCHiPneawguRukk39jEw5i9LEiSgh_x9iMSmLZhOXrobLnlL6wD0mWI8lKToYsf1XddR33xiGSNhk8Kkz/s1600/536497_924654752483_651045050_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2SeD36PKKwnoztibe03wnuEPAM4Sz-H-t8YK7GZow5QFAmfpuVoImZQsma3PCHiPneawguRukk39jEw5i9LEiSgh_x9iMSmLZhOXrobLnlL6wD0mWI8lKToYsf1XddR33xiGSNhk8Kkz/s320/536497_924654752483_651045050_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before I left for the wedding</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsRsCfX9N-s2df0ogtzwAkwF09eHmDakJPRJh8T2AnB9B8Htg07vE90C3SuNz-tE4YNjeCGIrchdPDzCBS_lnjy8Hpp8Z6gxkJseqJz_Ew4xsNbFndval2OgKDky2h7ADVToEqAdmrZAA4/s1600/536728_10152291142030724_1360159794_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsRsCfX9N-s2df0ogtzwAkwF09eHmDakJPRJh8T2AnB9B8Htg07vE90C3SuNz-tE4YNjeCGIrchdPDzCBS_lnjy8Hpp8Z6gxkJseqJz_Ew4xsNbFndval2OgKDky2h7ADVToEqAdmrZAA4/s320/536728_10152291142030724_1360159794_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Watching the bride</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Shawn and I are pretty much settled
into life here with the ups and downs, but enjoying the experience
such a different world!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
(Larissa snapped most of the pictures.
You really are not supposed to take pictures, so they were a little
sneaky! Thanks to her for getting some.) </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-40496235239559532542012-11-15T01:21:00.000-08:002012-11-15T03:16:50.954-08:00Crete day three and saying goodbye! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Who is up early reading again? Of
course it was me, but not for long as Shawn wakes up, we eat
breakfast, and are ready to face a beautiful sunny day! We pack our
car with some snacks and camera, and we are off on a three hour drive
across the island to find a famous gorge. First, we stopped at the
small beach town nearby to buy souvenirs for our family members.
Shawn once again spoiled me, and bought me a beautiful Greek dress
made in Athens to wear to my baby shower. We also bought a cute
little teddy for the baby!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pqbDOkSVXZAagenBh9MmDXqJTyPcL1C2MeYhVMhSlX5vClBOSyMcOmT6O18N1y5bbq4vXphEXpFBnX3BWywTQ58znrDxGqr9H-TtpM3-jrH362XGYNMq4qBhTBcF0GFJ18E9r8MXwywi/s1600/IMG_8306-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pqbDOkSVXZAagenBh9MmDXqJTyPcL1C2MeYhVMhSlX5vClBOSyMcOmT6O18N1y5bbq4vXphEXpFBnX3BWywTQ58znrDxGqr9H-TtpM3-jrH362XGYNMq4qBhTBcF0GFJ18E9r8MXwywi/s320/IMG_8306-001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bear for baby</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Our three hour drive soon became a four
or more as we saw so many beautiful sites along the way. We pulled
over many times for amazing views, including a beach to make sure we
touched the Mediterranean. Our trip took us along the coast for the
first half, with views of sandy beaches as well as cliffs diving into
the water. About halfway through, it took a turn and began our climb
up the mountains. Along the way, we found a little restaurant tucked
in the mountainside. It was so quaint. We were the only ones there,
except for the owner and one other employee. We had homemade pizza
with more tzatziki, fresh squeezed orange juice (there was an orange
grove right there in the back), and enjoyed a quiet lunch with
amazing view. We even got stuck behind an orange truck for awhile,
which smelled amazing.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6z9dAZn7X-ijrmfYFvLRQv3jMB0ZUl7vSjJAEoHTI5pLPA1nR9wKBxEeNUumhXmmxCw3KYVxBs3YvkMmGJ7GyrW0SWQd9VGD7078A4KaOVrlNRiTfYHJL8Wcf-QwxrpTNH4guYwlr8uP6/s1600/IMG_8233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6z9dAZn7X-ijrmfYFvLRQv3jMB0ZUl7vSjJAEoHTI5pLPA1nR9wKBxEeNUumhXmmxCw3KYVxBs3YvkMmGJ7GyrW0SWQd9VGD7078A4KaOVrlNRiTfYHJL8Wcf-QwxrpTNH4guYwlr8uP6/s320/IMG_8233.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ready for adventure</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuE_UPbhFWjk-oaF6KJWF3q95tqB1s5QLf-IehJ7VnLSc-9h8Ymhh7Vv45bD3hR7q9I-5XCtgWfoMFjkUCwDNaBWAOZxGRDA0oliaQ3bMkgmeA-pP6bh_ilVcwLwlO3chIb3nII02wOnH/s1600/IMG_8262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuE_UPbhFWjk-oaF6KJWF3q95tqB1s5QLf-IehJ7VnLSc-9h8Ymhh7Vv45bD3hR7q9I-5XCtgWfoMFjkUCwDNaBWAOZxGRDA0oliaQ3bMkgmeA-pP6bh_ilVcwLwlO3chIb3nII02wOnH/s320/IMG_8262.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBiM7zx9VX0Pfs1zFhI0uNRBl7fFvSQI0FCdAfgjBfkiPw7BPfr36QGpYdf6AULY6dpvY9N8F0ZY9vXAYNtWsbHg0SMX8ierq6P_uld10OTZdlLjIXA_yF50tHH1q4arUDQPMeIeUR1e_/s1600/IMG_8257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBiM7zx9VX0Pfs1zFhI0uNRBl7fFvSQI0FCdAfgjBfkiPw7BPfr36QGpYdf6AULY6dpvY9N8F0ZY9vXAYNtWsbHg0SMX8ierq6P_uld10OTZdlLjIXA_yF50tHH1q4arUDQPMeIeUR1e_/s320/IMG_8257.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shawn touching the water</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnvIbb7V0QbwyVkNV8qiB8mMhX27uibD0S4ITq14j9cW_skpK8ahsrgl483lmcZR_saUre0pYfyyYAMhg0b0CKuJxlOhRoBDsbfYpoFvoV90mNzbSe_DqsIwMoVVZKMlADBwL3WH7-kPV/s1600/102_0774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnvIbb7V0QbwyVkNV8qiB8mMhX27uibD0S4ITq14j9cW_skpK8ahsrgl483lmcZR_saUre0pYfyyYAMhg0b0CKuJxlOhRoBDsbfYpoFvoV90mNzbSe_DqsIwMoVVZKMlADBwL3WH7-kPV/s320/102_0774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Orange truck</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3AlsOnQCMwv24X7WXT_HUENM1UygsUlnjD9QEr_excyQJqJCanDuZkAtdlB3_DTGrLF-34PsNAWu_EmtohNuGnZm1kA2a7sbFD7gep_4ZL5sjzGbe7ZB0RGKzm4VMnTB_gm95bmDccb6/s1600/102_0775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3AlsOnQCMwv24X7WXT_HUENM1UygsUlnjD9QEr_excyQJqJCanDuZkAtdlB3_DTGrLF-34PsNAWu_EmtohNuGnZm1kA2a7sbFD7gep_4ZL5sjzGbe7ZB0RGKzm4VMnTB_gm95bmDccb6/s320/102_0775.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stopping to eat</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uU3QLBDQDYjFnQpOP0DKLAgypgMtHsaPIgm1FUwJjN8cy0RSLfaHbu0otX_Z6DmzAWbhedviRdnMZr7bYv6p9nmcBki84vMUt6_a6ZzaqDEA5rv3BLUwC34EUifFQqSXYw0nKJ2ZVU4c/s1600/102_0781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uU3QLBDQDYjFnQpOP0DKLAgypgMtHsaPIgm1FUwJjN8cy0RSLfaHbu0otX_Z6DmzAWbhedviRdnMZr7bYv6p9nmcBki84vMUt6_a6ZzaqDEA5rv3BLUwC34EUifFQqSXYw0nKJ2ZVU4c/s320/102_0781.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The climb up the mountain was fun.
Shawn was so happy to be driving a stick and the roads winded back
and forth. Some parts were very narrow, and there wasn't even a
guardrail. I am glad I love and trust my husband! We also met many
goats and sheep along the way. I can't even begin to explain the
views, and the pictures don't go it justice. It felt like we ended up
in a completely different place, as we could no longer see the water
or beaches. In the end, we were about 4,000 feet up the mountain, and
found the national park.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6la_wIRTJoLdgdN_VPBig2dSSssbS9tmehBZuqv6El9ii0dtzL17zRlAQ1pLKFg83VB5K_hDbQSCL8wNdcZxg1oGDcbbq3zmTXN54uvUK7yVvGiXt7s_fsGaRAPzFsfWtZz6zkotgWVd2/s1600/102_0786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6la_wIRTJoLdgdN_VPBig2dSSssbS9tmehBZuqv6El9ii0dtzL17zRlAQ1pLKFg83VB5K_hDbQSCL8wNdcZxg1oGDcbbq3zmTXN54uvUK7yVvGiXt7s_fsGaRAPzFsfWtZz6zkotgWVd2/s320/102_0786.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxuBXya7LbFMzw0xpRhpDdESV1_hNg4A5bnHedTLfRs7fDfblH5T0Tp2dplZ88pNP1X9ODEmCpS1l9Rnv4SgRDM6fd8lyxeqNOIKTIXGXNN6PFF7YP__E6zN3R4SBxfhSYykzgSyvPf6R/s1600/102_0790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxuBXya7LbFMzw0xpRhpDdESV1_hNg4A5bnHedTLfRs7fDfblH5T0Tp2dplZ88pNP1X9ODEmCpS1l9Rnv4SgRDM6fd8lyxeqNOIKTIXGXNN6PFF7YP__E6zN3R4SBxfhSYykzgSyvPf6R/s320/102_0790.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsplByLwUCRF90XTicMdnzhTQjr0imsKOHjr5n9yEn8e7hPKkc2v5klDQHI9dapa4UTTm92uaWjUA4R02EBnGjtgzSdZy1tRvcVGtCPfWF2KhAsM-gsINvvMEk9xO0zVOSJBNSSYNRIA5/s1600/102_0792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsplByLwUCRF90XTicMdnzhTQjr0imsKOHjr5n9yEn8e7hPKkc2v5klDQHI9dapa4UTTm92uaWjUA4R02EBnGjtgzSdZy1tRvcVGtCPfWF2KhAsM-gsINvvMEk9xO0zVOSJBNSSYNRIA5/s320/102_0792.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUc39x63kvioN5Cq0wVwQi_R1-BuPcrdqeaBCe_C6-6FPc1n91xEH_AeLV5VjbolFchTct4rczOq48DWWuvJbTqwoqDzJTdGEHkhDXGFLg6sEUcLaLiPaQVj4qbrW6NFnpr8wTk7vuOs4T/s1600/IMG_8298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUc39x63kvioN5Cq0wVwQi_R1-BuPcrdqeaBCe_C6-6FPc1n91xEH_AeLV5VjbolFchTct4rczOq48DWWuvJbTqwoqDzJTdGEHkhDXGFLg6sEUcLaLiPaQVj4qbrW6NFnpr8wTk7vuOs4T/s320/IMG_8298.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
By the time we got to the park, it was
already four o'clock. We found out the total hike down was around
9-10 miles, so we knew we could not do the whole thing. Not only was it
late afternoon, but don't forget I'm seven months pregnant. We
decided to just hike for awhile, and see what we could do. Even
though we didn't make it to the bottom, it was still amazing. We were
so high that we were above the clouds. Sometimes along the path, we
would walk under fences to protect us from falling rocks. That was a
little scary. As we were walking along, I suddenly heard a noise that
sounded like a car driving on gravel. I realized though that there
were no roads anywhere near us, and that we were hearing a huge rock
slide across the other mountain. That was a pretty cool experience.
All in all, we hiked about three miles. Not bad for my big belly
self. It was a great experience, but I was tired!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRDH8Cp3iAB5dB9o7-pjyNgRtvFBgehfOTOf9YJ59LQD2S4EL6IOFp9CzmN2yQV0NHPctNShCjXs3dJvBg7Hgtx82keTCmOpYFWPbpOg-P_M64aF8P-5tPwW_mj_GqkAoD5X318841u7U/s1600/IMG_8271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRDH8Cp3iAB5dB9o7-pjyNgRtvFBgehfOTOf9YJ59LQD2S4EL6IOFp9CzmN2yQV0NHPctNShCjXs3dJvBg7Hgtx82keTCmOpYFWPbpOg-P_M64aF8P-5tPwW_mj_GqkAoD5X318841u7U/s320/IMG_8271.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hiking</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZx8okw6rlPfgzBrOF9BhS2KCuULMIsJDYCk97k1DTUK4DfPn0FEWCc25RvXDUi_jlA_yAh1KzuXH5dY8cjh2rjChBIQw_Y6cOlfXZync8f2P95qxf9Xm9R9OCytaY3w9F55JqkX_VWVJ/s1600/IMG_8281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZx8okw6rlPfgzBrOF9BhS2KCuULMIsJDYCk97k1DTUK4DfPn0FEWCc25RvXDUi_jlA_yAh1KzuXH5dY8cjh2rjChBIQw_Y6cOlfXZync8f2P95qxf9Xm9R9OCytaY3w9F55JqkX_VWVJ/s320/IMG_8281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_9PjwrkvdAi9yJ64S_rmSOQWDus7AEU2dJ9PMe3TNOFdZ1QjQBx_5LDijkgUhCMAbW7L4yMgip_7XoF42jGQfMX7OwcydqpbuNwf015ohJf2G0Sb5UV4CDZg1x7-RLsuAHOis223X6j-1/s1600/IMG_8293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_9PjwrkvdAi9yJ64S_rmSOQWDus7AEU2dJ9PMe3TNOFdZ1QjQBx_5LDijkgUhCMAbW7L4yMgip_7XoF42jGQfMX7OwcydqpbuNwf015ohJf2G0Sb5UV4CDZg1x7-RLsuAHOis223X6j-1/s320/IMG_8293.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Above the clouds</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The trip down the mountain was just as
fun, as Shawn and I blasted music and talked about life. Once again,
I am grateful everyday I am married to my best friend.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
By the time we got back towards the
hotel, it was getting late. We decided to go to a little restaurant
on the hill near the hotel, and were once again treated so kindly. We
were the only ones there and the owner waited on us. We enjoyed
dinner and music, and headed back to the hotel to pack and hit the
hay!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The next morning we finished packing
and sadly said goodbye to the hotel as we headed to the airport. We
had booked a taxi the night before, and turned in our little rental
car. Our journey home began. We had a pleasant flight from Crete to
Athens, then Athens was interesting. As we are boarding the flight to
leave Athens, we realize there are a group of workers being flown in
to the Middle East. I see them all holding their paperwork, and I
believe they were from Bangladesh. When the attendant calls boarding
for rows 30-35 (we were like 32), they all rush forward. Before you
know it, I'm being pushed all over the place and almost knocked over.
There goes hospitality and civilization. We get to the gate check,
and when they scan my ticket we are told we missed a step somewhere.
Not sure how, because we already went through passport control, but
we are told to step around to the desk. This is impossible as we are
almost being crushed. We finally got it worked out, but I was already
missing Greece and I hadn't even left. Then, when we boarded the
plane, there was a man that didn't speak English in our window seat.
We gave up trying to explain and Shawn ended up in the middle. Oh the
joys...
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Besides that we made it back in one
piece. We had a layover in Doha, Qatar and then landed in Abu Dhabi.
We caught a taxi to our car, and then realized we had made a big
mistake when we got there. I had purchased some food in the airport
at Doha with dirhams (the currency of the UAE), and didn't realize
they gave me their currency in return. When the taxi driver drops us
off, we have Euros, Doha currency, and 500 dirhams; which he can't
break. He was so mad at us. We asked him to bring us to a gas
station, and we would pay extra fare, but he said he didn't know whee
one was nearby. We tried asking other taxi drivers for change, but
they didn't have it. We finally ended up paying him in Euros, which
was a better deal for him. He was very rude and upset though. We got
in the car and Shawn drove the hour and half back home while I
drifted in and out of sleep. I was so happy I didn't have to work the
next day!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Overall, it was an amazing experience.
Even though this country can drive me crazy and I get homesick, I am
so grateful because I get to have experiences like this. I highly
recommend Greece to all, and know I will be going back in the next
two years! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5giz6E6qrIVGZ9oY6tLsjhVR7KVOWQHMzm1gopeYpBQSXGzaRItEECRnj8yWYrzQKfHKf4QPj3vdhWQ5Um1H9v73UF7weLv47Tu3KR_5qhTgeBZ5mINBm6GL0XaXultzgj3AsWPBmA4nd/s1600/102_0763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="82" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5giz6E6qrIVGZ9oY6tLsjhVR7KVOWQHMzm1gopeYpBQSXGzaRItEECRnj8yWYrzQKfHKf4QPj3vdhWQ5Um1H9v73UF7weLv47Tu3KR_5qhTgeBZ5mINBm6GL0XaXultzgj3AsWPBmA4nd/s320/102_0763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beautiful Crete!!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwrgD4ZbBY4YGTOalh4A5WlFcWFWRwmjYw68zQq07cFQpRC6ksKmBLseq-Q_DETpPsGx3raaG3NZlJrV1d5Gw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sheeeeep</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzNyuH_TAOHt0X0H2dpESPsMaXRK-L7-6WWNqGZ62NILrhowlvGpnO5-cBSdRT-bu1olBRfyNW3THuulGfH' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Driving the mountain! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-27519704461466132022012-11-15T00:26:00.001-08:002012-11-15T00:26:50.223-08:00Crete day two! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Of course I was up early. Between being
excited and pregnant, there was no way I was sleeping in. I got up
before Shawn and sat in the bed reading, listening to the rain. When
Shawn woke up, we headed to breakfast and discussed what to do for
the day. Originally, we ad planned on driving across the island to a
gorge we could hike, but it was raining pretty hard and they were
calling for rain on and off all day. We decided it would be better to
head into the city and explore the museums and shops there... and we
were on our way!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Heraklion (Iraklion) is the largest
city and capital of Crete, fourth largest city in Greece, so was a
great place to visit. It was an interesting mixture of modern Europe
and ancient culture. We found a parking garage close to the water and
first made our way to see the Venetian Fortress. As we headed down
the road, storm clouds moved in and silly us were excited to see
them. Of course it rained on us, but we still walked around the fort.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6K_rjuQnXcImNSFlhIFNT_tJwAbyUMcjEHnbAv8nYlZQqQtP7Ingt4PBWdx85UhSYUTzfuW-PobJDc4iF0bYaQ9nC07-i1gqef5O_4AskK3NUEFa6eQiGpTTSZib8g3HerA52EUfK-vh/s1600/IMG_8202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6K_rjuQnXcImNSFlhIFNT_tJwAbyUMcjEHnbAv8nYlZQqQtP7Ingt4PBWdx85UhSYUTzfuW-PobJDc4iF0bYaQ9nC07-i1gqef5O_4AskK3NUEFa6eQiGpTTSZib8g3HerA52EUfK-vh/s320/IMG_8202.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What is this? </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnK11vc8DgoIkmEBxfooIC_RipctlMs_N05Zi2y6_u9DYfxIpL1fKNzTk0hNo11hk9XA4aKYQfpBgeHtjOqxEKYXshUw3VFyGNHuDwTMF0pXqR3s6maE0P68NNkQME-gn62Wwx69pspjT/s1600/IMG_8203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnK11vc8DgoIkmEBxfooIC_RipctlMs_N05Zi2y6_u9DYfxIpL1fKNzTk0hNo11hk9XA4aKYQfpBgeHtjOqxEKYXshUw3VFyGNHuDwTMF0pXqR3s6maE0P68NNkQME-gn62Wwx69pspjT/s320/IMG_8203.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fortress</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
At the hotel we had picked up a walking
map of the city, with sites to see, so we decided to try to follow
the walking path. We headed up the main road, filled with little
souvenir shops. There were also these fish spas on every corner,
where you stick your feet in a tank of fish and they nibble on your
feet. They were all open and you could watch everyone do it. I didn't
though!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We saw some historical sites such as
Saint Titus church, the loggia (an old meeting hall), fountains,
statues, and more. We found our way to a famous courtyard and into a
small cafe for lunch. Once again, it was delicious. We also found our
way into a local market, and walked through with the smell of bread
and fish. Next, we made our way to the archaeological museum, as our
tickets to the Knossos ruins also allowed us access to the museum.
The museum was interesting, as we saw ancient artifacts, including
items recovered from the palace.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MkOpM0JqWX0Yd4relAGkiM_Nt_CvukhAy5TdCtq5AzjTMrj5y_-CzFQojh9S5VAOqMknCgHUcyDJSZ_-Elz03JTnUQVYn_JZD51VhRSqjngEinM-PTFkRBOkUMLAdGvKMiPLKb5v9o9Y/s1600/IMG_8206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MkOpM0JqWX0Yd4relAGkiM_Nt_CvukhAy5TdCtq5AzjTMrj5y_-CzFQojh9S5VAOqMknCgHUcyDJSZ_-Elz03JTnUQVYn_JZD51VhRSqjngEinM-PTFkRBOkUMLAdGvKMiPLKb5v9o9Y/s320/IMG_8206.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
St. Titus</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIQolHlNJJ2siBLD3ryA8zGHhbohR5xXLkUozSx4GJ6VnzDBvTDJy9ATRs-pbpeoTOUnmZvfNodoCDCOW_Xapk4EVIPxuwnXlUmmm_ZX3IzmA9wlVAFfkmHhooo-J10ks0QTucBULl3Dx/s1600/IMG_8208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIQolHlNJJ2siBLD3ryA8zGHhbohR5xXLkUozSx4GJ6VnzDBvTDJy9ATRs-pbpeoTOUnmZvfNodoCDCOW_Xapk4EVIPxuwnXlUmmm_ZX3IzmA9wlVAFfkmHhooo-J10ks0QTucBULl3Dx/s320/IMG_8208.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Loggia</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhet2gOD8bXy9guPoK0PdXkWzD6RIFMxNsnkg-n1JRx6Z8g4OMDXdQWA-8vPSMfItoMFaaI8z3xWvk2sN3GN9kT-d0jpdmCjDjAwtfYtIJHYhAQzMWoTDCw0Qvoz2MY_4TQ8N4gqe5rEm8-/s1600/IMG_8212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhet2gOD8bXy9guPoK0PdXkWzD6RIFMxNsnkg-n1JRx6Z8g4OMDXdQWA-8vPSMfItoMFaaI8z3xWvk2sN3GN9kT-d0jpdmCjDjAwtfYtIJHYhAQzMWoTDCw0Qvoz2MY_4TQ8N4gqe5rEm8-/s320/IMG_8212.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Square</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHv9Ciw9DqzthRyFOjINLz8MMV6Nv0K16PUisngxuNWKn22x3GxJjbZdqAaPyrd-W8jzVDnoMNJPKaDn1DJEdFswlr1cx3o2CJzYCVMzg28-MbfgXJYTQXc0mih-bAjYo71c_UBNmr4BeC/s1600/IMG_8213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHv9Ciw9DqzthRyFOjINLz8MMV6Nv0K16PUisngxuNWKn22x3GxJjbZdqAaPyrd-W8jzVDnoMNJPKaDn1DJEdFswlr1cx3o2CJzYCVMzg28-MbfgXJYTQXc0mih-bAjYo71c_UBNmr4BeC/s320/IMG_8213.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shawn's lamb</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBV2EUUgP0RpaY1w7W8zF7HHsiCXuBFY42Yju9piPqHYFWYOLUgdresSD-8Liv6FWt0V3IDkvuGKqsNcBQrANB3mPKHs9OW4t_LUhcPZdJLJZ50JQola6ibwtEUgnLzogNTdiOQsdntx6/s1600/IMG_8214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBV2EUUgP0RpaY1w7W8zF7HHsiCXuBFY42Yju9piPqHYFWYOLUgdresSD-8Liv6FWt0V3IDkvuGKqsNcBQrANB3mPKHs9OW4t_LUhcPZdJLJZ50JQola6ibwtEUgnLzogNTdiOQsdntx6/s320/IMG_8214.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Greek salad</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3E5KYRJujo7lRkhfv79Ztz8RdBJsKS3dCFH1QCPIBqIj1U205cfiBUmP-lNRm1qYMj6l1l4yi9htGF5Mzpb9ZdQ2xRtSQbRzBi3UmZbLUYPoScqWKEUvkULbtLlCok7wbeK5fvDZgsaW/s1600/IMG_8216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3E5KYRJujo7lRkhfv79Ztz8RdBJsKS3dCFH1QCPIBqIj1U205cfiBUmP-lNRm1qYMj6l1l4yi9htGF5Mzpb9ZdQ2xRtSQbRzBi3UmZbLUYPoScqWKEUvkULbtLlCok7wbeK5fvDZgsaW/s320/IMG_8216.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Museum </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wW1fOrGNz_IRnpFUriltPS3P1E_9UyDYivfe4uCQML71hrpTEZ5L64zm3b2mth6GKjLNuhE7Q4_2uVNU9CpQSP26HEv42q9rSp9JAoxC9YgdcfMW_cWo4kv6VSTXYJWDQizCwQP3SbfM/s1600/IMG_8217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wW1fOrGNz_IRnpFUriltPS3P1E_9UyDYivfe4uCQML71hrpTEZ5L64zm3b2mth6GKjLNuhE7Q4_2uVNU9CpQSP26HEv42q9rSp9JAoxC9YgdcfMW_cWo4kv6VSTXYJWDQizCwQP3SbfM/s320/IMG_8217.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After the museum, we were greeted by
pouring rain as we found the exit. Shawn bought me a nice Greece
hoodie, and off we went. As we began to walk again, we found another
entrance to the museum with a statue room, and so hopped in there. We
were really glad we did! Shawn and I have been reading a series
lately that I got into by my students last year. The first set
focused on Greek gods and the second on Roman, so we have been
learning a lot about the history of the country as well as the
legends. It was nice to see many statues depicting the legends we had
been reading about, as well as busts of famous people through history
we had read about in other books.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We headed out, and were still greeted
by the rain, so sat on a bench and enjoyed some Greek chocolate. As
the rain lightened up, we bought an umbrella and headed along to
continue our adventure. We wound up in a nice park, walking along the
old Venetian walls and the bastions. Along the way the map got a
little confusing and we were not sure which way to go. As we tried to
find our way to a famous grave site, the rain came again in full
force. We found our selves under a bridge that used to be one of the
gates to the city, a little soaked, but enjoying our crazy adventure.
We tried to find the grave site, but decided it wasn't that big of a
deal, and headed back towards the car in the rain. Along the way, we
passed through the market again, and Shawn bought me a beautiful
pendant of the goddess Athena. We also decided to stop and eat
dinner, and ended up in a nice patio area under a cover from the
rain. The funny part of the story was when I tried to order a virgin
drink. In Al Ain, you can't get any alcohol unless you go to a hotel,
so virgin drinks are everywhere. A little different in Greece. The
guy kept trying to tell me which beverages were good. I finally had
to scoot my chair back and show him my pregnant belly. He was very
sorry, and got me a nice alcohol free cocktail.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After dinner, we found our car and
headed back to the hotel. We dried off and changed, before heading to
the lobby. I really wanted a hot shower, yet because the water is
heated by the sun on the roof and there was no sun that day, no hot
water. In the lobby I chatted with my mom, and the owner of the hotel
served us some yummy tzatziki. We also played some cards before
heading to bed, tired but excited about more adventures ahead.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPjoxZIiNs1TYxHjt1jx3EMN0X5b-2zLtSVmIZuNIDomFFEbzfeUjwgqySxTg4nys8kM87zAij_LEBLJJwpdWEaZQMGPbZQtaqkvu0H36CEwfZcegqtC5rxgFbiJxkU04_MI98nxOPm_k/s1600/12734_915565173073_1949094009_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPjoxZIiNs1TYxHjt1jx3EMN0X5b-2zLtSVmIZuNIDomFFEbzfeUjwgqySxTg4nys8kM87zAij_LEBLJJwpdWEaZQMGPbZQtaqkvu0H36CEwfZcegqtC5rxgFbiJxkU04_MI98nxOPm_k/s320/12734_915565173073_1949094009_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our hotel cat. This cat lives at the hotel. The owner said he was there when he bought the place. This cat followed us everywhere: breakfast, patio, lobby, etc... Here he sat on the couch with us in the lobby for awhile. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-13070981290067515312012-11-15T00:07:00.000-08:002012-11-15T00:07:01.366-08:00Crete, Greece: Getting there and Day one! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We are so blessed! We had the
opportunity at the end of this October to travel to Greece's island
of Crete. The only reason we had this opportunity is because of
living abroad in the Middle East. Even though some days are very
tough living here, it is times like this that I make it worth the
stress.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The UAE is a Muslim country, so our
days off from school are Islamic religious holidays. The end of
October is Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice. It celebrates the
willingness of the prophet Abraham to sacrifice his first born son.
For this holiday we received a long weekend, with two days off from
work.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
As you know, we are excitedly awaiting
the birth of our first child in January. Due to this, we won't be
able to travel during December break because of being close to my due
date. We may not even travel during the spring break in late
March-early April, because our new baby will be so young. This was
our last opportunity to travel until July, as well as last time
without a child. We decided to go on a “babymoon” and wanted to
make it special.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We looked online at different deals,
and when we found a great groupon for a quiet hotel in Crete, we knew
it was for us. We booked our plane tickets, and before we knew it we
were packing our bags!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We left Al Ain Tuesday morning and
drove to complex of villas in Abu Dhabi where we parked our car.
There we got a taxi to the airport, checked in, and were on our way.
We had a lot of layovers, because we booked a cheaper flight. We flew
from Abu Dhabi to Doha, which was only an hour flight. The nice thing
was that they give you candy before the flight takes off... actually
every flight did this for the entire trip. We then flew from Doha to
Athens, and Athens to Crete. It was a long, all day event, but we
were finally there. We caught a cab to the hotel with a great driver
named George. He told us all about the island and drove us into the
mountains to our quaint hotel. We checked in and headed to our room
for the night. We also had a nice treat... a thunderstorm! We hadn't
sen rain in almost 4 months, so laying in bed listening to the rain
and thunder was a nice beginning to a great vacation.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdbk6fwAN6X1c0T_0AV3uh6w60cTh3TB_8ErBGVQjsfEJacUtzZO_ns9gbL741-4EvQmRkLTMrl8a5GnbDMNdz9Oy8PaWAeyWrdkyx7XYI6US73f-G23maVGvCd3G1og8dMYXr92kA6k-L/s1600/102_0795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdbk6fwAN6X1c0T_0AV3uh6w60cTh3TB_8ErBGVQjsfEJacUtzZO_ns9gbL741-4EvQmRkLTMrl8a5GnbDMNdz9Oy8PaWAeyWrdkyx7XYI6US73f-G23maVGvCd3G1og8dMYXr92kA6k-L/s320/102_0795.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Simple bedroom... no distractions </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-tOU3d333pPXz3y1CU_8uqOqnBmikbwhldG0RRyDe9yPUzn3BRLl6F5v6zN5-fVOsi8Di5hl-eXJhEs7EgLJHl12vaPPKSJDm7s14fdaLKev6VPMXxJ-0YTwnZrYOLejZc8Qh3B9vEmD/s1600/IMG_8220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-tOU3d333pPXz3y1CU_8uqOqnBmikbwhldG0RRyDe9yPUzn3BRLl6F5v6zN5-fVOsi8Di5hl-eXJhEs7EgLJHl12vaPPKSJDm7s14fdaLKev6VPMXxJ-0YTwnZrYOLejZc8Qh3B9vEmD/s320/IMG_8220.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hotel room</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIjKDfZpv7sUAznCwiyQJRH1ToUB_p5wITBbu5do8-OeB1YC-aL9FjPigt1_cgOgTTBjwwdvVgJCsY8arsG2VL0_f-fHY4l8Ni0TQUWUAGu-YBTR3Nq3rnqz_LArTBOhTgaOQpGgVlrwa/s1600/IMG_8232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIjKDfZpv7sUAznCwiyQJRH1ToUB_p5wITBbu5do8-OeB1YC-aL9FjPigt1_cgOgTTBjwwdvVgJCsY8arsG2VL0_f-fHY4l8Ni0TQUWUAGu-YBTR3Nq3rnqz_LArTBOhTgaOQpGgVlrwa/s320/IMG_8232.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hotel</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1FtPvfXIB-2j3Pj0JsS5xeCA1wypD-Zy8YP7jFCkjneiKoaBCvelbR2LjDXl6f3BMsQgaN7D3htP_zCHGsamBMMA5UVfe_2N2obkjp-OCKj65M8Rz8zbL0UNVJ27F3eSgW8gp69INTOx/s1600/IMG_8230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1FtPvfXIB-2j3Pj0JsS5xeCA1wypD-Zy8YP7jFCkjneiKoaBCvelbR2LjDXl6f3BMsQgaN7D3htP_zCHGsamBMMA5UVfe_2N2obkjp-OCKj65M8Rz8zbL0UNVJ27F3eSgW8gp69INTOx/s320/IMG_8230.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hotel</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The next morning I was so excited to
get started I woke up early and read until I thought it was time to
wake Shawn. We headed to breakfast at the hotel, and were greeted
with amazing views! We decided we would head to the Palace of
Knossos, the largest archaeological site on the island and where the
legend of King Minos and the Minotaur took place. We decided we would
take the bus to the city and then find our way from there. The hotel
owner told us the bus stop was “at the top of the hill,” so we
got ready and began to walk.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We walked a short way up the hill and
saw a bus stop sign with the city name on it. We were so excited and
so begun our wait. While we were waiting, four kittens from the house
next to the stop found their way to us. They were so cute and
curious. They kept coming up to us, but were skittish and would then
run away. This distracted us for awhile, but soon we realized we had
been waiting a long time. Around this time of realization, a man came
out of the house and asked what we were doing. After telling him we
were waiting for the bus, he told us this bus didn't come until late
afternoon, and we needed to go further up the hill... so up we went.
Up and up we walked. Now remember I am 7 months pregnant, carrying 20
new pounds of baby, extra blood, and all that good stuff. So after
awhile, and getting the the top of the hill before the road started
to go downhill, we decided it was time to turn around and rent a car.
We walked back down, I changed into shorts (I hadn't worn shorts in
public for three months) and we were on our way with our little
manual Hyundai accent... an a map!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaP1c9W0dvdXOk5ukPqPb3P50XIWAILXeyoo3xHJPVePs8LMQnE_udicJmi9dn0SNxbBY3Gl5MsPx6qfQyoSLGic3PyQSArAUnVQYy1hv03QFj62W7rsI0YrHigihHbdOIrjaprbs2513u/s1600/IMG_8117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaP1c9W0dvdXOk5ukPqPb3P50XIWAILXeyoo3xHJPVePs8LMQnE_udicJmi9dn0SNxbBY3Gl5MsPx6qfQyoSLGic3PyQSArAUnVQYy1hv03QFj62W7rsI0YrHigihHbdOIrjaprbs2513u/s320/IMG_8117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiNeHUhm8erDBnVPRxyuQxYB7ruakUtkmy7v_oiKEWfZUtnMeZNE6qPMPLRg8S4YAp5NC-O_n77UrFKtNm7R6jOjiT9gRPN3cor2pbTrFlhpumaTkOJZ8a3qce8cHqHMx9zwWHoxQ228QT/s1600/IMG_8118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiNeHUhm8erDBnVPRxyuQxYB7ruakUtkmy7v_oiKEWfZUtnMeZNE6qPMPLRg8S4YAp5NC-O_n77UrFKtNm7R6jOjiT9gRPN3cor2pbTrFlhpumaTkOJZ8a3qce8cHqHMx9zwWHoxQ228QT/s320/IMG_8118.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Waiting for the bus that never came</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAUjtQsqVlmNkUAp8o-wyiOiLgAKP0oBFf8BZcDBVhXUGCwfwHSlyDzo0g2RdBAAJPfzkMxwd0GWCIVz-qmDnixImC23m1uPTsGUzysGvUA8dGnTClyKMibiylhxzbkJMkDunVUKtLLfk/s1600/IMG_8195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAUjtQsqVlmNkUAp8o-wyiOiLgAKP0oBFf8BZcDBVhXUGCwfwHSlyDzo0g2RdBAAJPfzkMxwd0GWCIVz-qmDnixImC23m1uPTsGUzysGvUA8dGnTClyKMibiylhxzbkJMkDunVUKtLLfk/s320/IMG_8195.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Renting the car</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Driving in Crete was a fun experience.
See... driving in Al Ain is just down right SCARY! There are round
about everywhere and people who don't follow any traffic rules. They
are rude and honk their horns, cut your off, and speed all over the
place. Shawn won't actually let me drive except a few seconds up to
the store behind out flat for safety.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Crete was chaotic, but an organized
chaos. People pass in the middle of the lane, but no one honks or
seems aggressive. You just move anywhere on the road you can but are
still considerate of others. Even in the city, where it was bumper
to bumper, so one honked and acted rude.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We found our way to the ruins, bought
our tickets, and spent the next few hours exploring. It was amazing
to know we were seeing things thousands of years old. It was a
beautiful day... we really couldn't have asked for better weather.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkkUSAcNhgWGkyOTmdyo8Z0Nfa2AzaxpcgmSjTiyoEicXvWJzA3Va0NgoEd511Wl8xXb68eDBQ-E_N3a0_zbKFaD6zhyphenhyphenEQyAIydXgGW6crhW0_sM_4e970vTZzz97Dx9mpHZRSJSP6zVx/s1600/IMG_8147-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkkUSAcNhgWGkyOTmdyo8Z0Nfa2AzaxpcgmSjTiyoEicXvWJzA3Va0NgoEd511Wl8xXb68eDBQ-E_N3a0_zbKFaD6zhyphenhyphenEQyAIydXgGW6crhW0_sM_4e970vTZzz97Dx9mpHZRSJSP6zVx/s320/IMG_8147-001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Palace ruins</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVdr9TFTB1JztMrVO_slSoVzmDISo6IGWF8aRZQKEvEJ42blw4me7K3RkkY5sh-gMCuVBo4RyL_LqD70PqreIyU4H5HuYzRF41bEy_JKg8xIKaACzJ2eh8QMEyYG04wJ9CJq94-zZYnke/s1600/IMG_8172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVdr9TFTB1JztMrVO_slSoVzmDISo6IGWF8aRZQKEvEJ42blw4me7K3RkkY5sh-gMCuVBo4RyL_LqD70PqreIyU4H5HuYzRF41bEy_JKg8xIKaACzJ2eh8QMEyYG04wJ9CJq94-zZYnke/s320/IMG_8172.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQv3yrHfk5KBSz36ldEXPrWBJtkZLVhs9aIK3mC9zHCyH6s-MD-NShJkicfq-3fscPdF3JX9X4F6SFk2Q2R0R5lAjnMIqF1kq5mnfC3DjGTxR4IyclbwNiB4VMeJVhfGEIVPwEhj7HnRu/s1600/IMG_8173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQv3yrHfk5KBSz36ldEXPrWBJtkZLVhs9aIK3mC9zHCyH6s-MD-NShJkicfq-3fscPdF3JX9X4F6SFk2Q2R0R5lAjnMIqF1kq5mnfC3DjGTxR4IyclbwNiB4VMeJVhfGEIVPwEhj7HnRu/s320/IMG_8173.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After exploring the site, we headed
back towards the car. On the side of the road were little souvenir
shops, so we popped in and out. Then, at the end of the street, was a
little restaurant. The owner was out front and called us in, and then
treated me like a princess. I ordered stuffed tomato and pepper per
his recommendation and it was amazing. Shawn had gyros and olives.
The man gave us his business card before we left and told us to tell
our baby about him. So sweet.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PmV1oSwVGBh3G0v5GiG2vWEB1Mr5qOvSC_TBqaA-eJ78LC5zY2dO-oF0Qsiv5zjV639EBXin6ICor4fR6YciowEQOmE8W7HcHGrNNr9WrrKPLpIFO9RfXMWQeka2oO8kfXPU46jZgPIq/s1600/IMG_8174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PmV1oSwVGBh3G0v5GiG2vWEB1Mr5qOvSC_TBqaA-eJ78LC5zY2dO-oF0Qsiv5zjV639EBXin6ICor4fR6YciowEQOmE8W7HcHGrNNr9WrrKPLpIFO9RfXMWQeka2oO8kfXPU46jZgPIq/s320/IMG_8174.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
YUM!!!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We looked on the map and saw another
ruin site not far, so decided we would try to find our way there. We
never found it, but had fun driving around. Eventually we made our
way back to the hotel for the night. After some relaxing in the
lobby, we headed to bed so we could continue our adventure the next
morning! </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-39061108327385860262012-11-09T22:07:00.001-08:002012-11-09T22:07:53.269-08:00Chaos is a way of life...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
About three or four weeks ago was very
interesting.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Sunday was a normal day at work, until
the end of the day. Originally, we were supposed to have a
professional development meeting in the library. Yet, halfway through
the day, I learn that there is a full staff meeting instead. I guess
there was a note posted in Arabic somewhere, but I was lucky to hear
through word of mouth. When the time came for the meeting, the other
two teachers were not there. I found them waiting for the other
meeting, because no one had told them about the change in plans.
Typical at our school.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We find out in the meeting that the
principal has basically given into parent complaints. See, the cycle
3 (high school) students switch classes during the day. They go to a
different class for English, Chemistry, etc... Apparently the parents
didn't like this, so the principal decided to change the way the
entire school works. Not only are the students going to stay in one
room and the teachers are going to move, but she decides all the
classrooms in the whole school are going to move. Oh, and it starts
tomorrow...</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So Monday we arrive and morning
ceremony begins as usual. Then, the principal decides to move where
all the students stand in assembly, so the chaos begins.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
May I add that the night before I had
begun not to feel well. My throat was on fire and I had a hard time
swallowing, as well as being very tired and well... just blah.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After the students have been moved all
around, the principal tells the students they are going to move rooms
today and the room is now “theirs”... and then sends them on
their way. This is when the true chaos begins.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
All the students in the entire school
begin to grab furniture and carry it from one room to another. My
grade 2 girls are dragging desks in the courtyard as the grade 3
girls move stuff out. All cycle 1 was shifting down one room. The
girls are then grabbing tables, desks, and all the stuff off of the
shelving. Some are running around playing while others are fighting
over what they will carry. Older girls are grabbing mops and cleaning
floors. The Arabic grade 3 teacher is telling me there isn't enough
room for all my things and is getting rid of desks I need. It was
CRAZY. My schedule for the day was supposed to be I teach period 1
and then had 3 free periods... so after awhile I left and went to sit
in the teacher's lounge because I didn't feel well. When I arrive, I
am told that there is now a room for English teachers and get sent on
my way.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I find my way to the room upstairs. The
seven English teachers have been given a classroom to use as our work
space. We are supposed to all have a desk in there... but no one
would give me one. Oh well!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When it comes time for me to teach
grade 3, I am in for some shock. First, some of my things like
magazines and chart paper have gone missing. The room was also a
shock.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The grade 3 room was set up before in a
way that made sense. It had been the same for about 5 weeks now. Each
student had a typical grade appropriate “plastic” desk. Then, in
the back were two tables set up with older wooden desks so that I
could do centers, small groups, and other activities. Once, I changed
the shape of one table to create more room and my Arabic co-teacher
got really mad. She gets mad easily, like when I used a book of hers.
She works like 80 minutes a day but thinks she owns the place. That's
a different story.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Anyhow, when I walk in the classroom I
am shocked. She has created 4 groups of desks for the students to sit
at. They are made of the old wooden desks, which are too small for
the students. All the extra desks are in the corridor. As the Arabic
teacher is walking out, I ask her if I can move the desks around. She
says something about how she is too tired, but nods her head. So I
spend the next bit of class having the students rearrange so that
they all had the same desks and the wooden desks are in the back...
just like before.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7j08ns0xKg4R_mDocKVAz2xFFpqgQlnqQ7T4AZa2P0hLe7dbC-S636UxlSR-AgJJ3_ygLeHU4opJ02Xf7g04NA4hpwR_AjV_CLxeWdIWtc0MxFooewdnlMW99kelZEiruT6qWEDqWD-6m/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7j08ns0xKg4R_mDocKVAz2xFFpqgQlnqQ7T4AZa2P0hLe7dbC-S636UxlSR-AgJJ3_ygLeHU4opJ02Xf7g04NA4hpwR_AjV_CLxeWdIWtc0MxFooewdnlMW99kelZEiruT6qWEDqWD-6m/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My grade 3 board... you can see the little wooden desks in the back. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Science work and word wall)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMC-3-40iW4iJ_cXxdLG2mCX-MRrCgj_wvSjPfqx-ibCGzdAeBAU3_h0y_4SWiesbXRKPQrTs-_MA4au4Tw8inYS3lqsrIt0CwexIIwzVZ2OzjlSjpMt5Dam2S8bkisMNYurU54S7iafC/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMC-3-40iW4iJ_cXxdLG2mCX-MRrCgj_wvSjPfqx-ibCGzdAeBAU3_h0y_4SWiesbXRKPQrTs-_MA4au4Tw8inYS3lqsrIt0CwexIIwzVZ2OzjlSjpMt5Dam2S8bkisMNYurU54S7iafC/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grade 2 work :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(fact families, shapes, and science)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Finally it was time to go home. I
decided to go to the doctor after school because my throat still
hurt. The doctor looked in my throat for 2 seconds, and said I had a
virus. She told me to drink hot things, rest, and not go to work the
next day. I did not argue!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I spent the next day (Tuesday) resting
and eating soup. Yet, I still wasn't feeling better. Someone
recommended a good American doctor, so I went to visit her Wednesday
morning. She took more time to check me over. She listened to me
breathe, checked the baby, and tested me for strep. She gave me a
safe prescription for cough medicine and told me not to go to work
again on Thursday. Again... I didn't argue.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I started to feel better over the
weekend and had a follow-up on Sat. Everything looked good... so back
to work on Sunday.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So, I arrive Sunday and go to the grade
3 classroom to see that the Arabic teacher changed it all back. Small
wooden desks for students, and now all extra desks have been taken
away. Oh joy! To make a long story short, I talked to my HoF (Head of
Faculty) who helped me talk to the teacher about why I need extra
desks for tables. She wasn't happy, but the room is now usable.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The last bit of the craziness of school
happened at the next staff meeting that Sunday. So here I am, just
getting over being sick and pregnant, sitting in a room where the
principal is speaking in Arabic. I am sitting there listening and
waiting for my translator to translate, when the principal says my
name and starts laughing. Everyone else does as well. Finally, my
translator informs me that the principal was teasing me because I am
absent minded. Thanks for making fun of me in a different language.
She also was mocking the English HoF behind her back when she was
explaining why we have to have professional development. I think
these people don't understand what rudeness is.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Things have slowly been returning back
to normal. The girls are still crazy because of the move. They all
think (especially older girls) that they own the room and can do what
they want. The older girls even tried to arrange the desks how they
want and decorate the walls. They told the English teacher for grade
11 she was “welcome to come to their classroom anytime.” It is
crazy... a bad choice on the principals part.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Two weeks later, our principal went to
another school to get us “new” furniture. The chaos recycled over
again as my class period was turned into a moving day. We got new
desks and spent about 40 minutes without chairs. Oh, and my tables I
fought for so I could pull small groups... gone once again.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This past week we had a parent day...
more chaos!! To make a long story short, parents were allowed to walk
in and out of classes all day and watch. The kids were given an hour
break in the middle of the day to run wild, while parents came to
conference with us. No sign up sheets, no order, just 5 parents all
trying to talk to me in a room with 6 other teachers and about 10
other parents. Two didn't speak English, but luckily I tracked down a
translator. We were told by the principal that she would later ask
the parents how they evaluate or school and what they think we should
change. Sounds excellent. I was actually glad to meet some parents, I
just wish it could have been more productive and organized.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
My final piece of chaos is all about my
student who hasn't come to my class for about 6 weeks. She refuses to
come to English. So what does the school do? They throw her a party
at the mall in an arcade. Of course she still refuses to come to my
class the next day... so they throw her another party at school. This
past Thursday the principal got to her to come and sat with her in my
class, but she was also given a Barbie doll to come and stay. I tell
you what... I think I will start refusing to go to work!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Well there are a few of my rants. My
next post will be a lot more positive as it will be all about my
vacation in Crete, Greece... yay!!! Also, 22 working days until
Winter break which goes into maternity leave. We will see what
interesting things can happen in the next 22 days! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEBQmFy1bga3an6bD-YV0sCJT77qNDdWjVzPIMmwXweyMeIhU9eEkuX1h39Td976R68mm-8g0bi4q8SfXqiXqnedYWBXVDPgJHsRbyM0FjfUeBN7OaJ0swMbT4kWD4DRj3u5Hn_DSlvPY/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEBQmFy1bga3an6bD-YV0sCJT77qNDdWjVzPIMmwXweyMeIhU9eEkuX1h39Td976R68mm-8g0bi4q8SfXqiXqnedYWBXVDPgJHsRbyM0FjfUeBN7OaJ0swMbT4kWD4DRj3u5Hn_DSlvPY/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A measurement lesson with gummy worms on the "new" desks</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(They are in their PE outfits)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4kTD83tFKnyRoEcYm3VbolsTYLGVCePBpR6mh-5bp2o0SOIl3gCv2fIkQTC1Jmoi9bM7X1__Ia3dEXI7P4nhqSRVBETylcdxsuhca3kS5aENZGvV44xpjcyFL5dFviL0SGrX4OHftjHH/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4kTD83tFKnyRoEcYm3VbolsTYLGVCePBpR6mh-5bp2o0SOIl3gCv2fIkQTC1Jmoi9bM7X1__Ia3dEXI7P4nhqSRVBETylcdxsuhca3kS5aENZGvV44xpjcyFL5dFviL0SGrX4OHftjHH/s400/photo+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grade two "creating with matter" science lab. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-7788148233046692062012-11-03T02:27:00.000-07:002012-11-03T02:27:51.250-07:00Welcome Home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Here is a tour of where we live. I have
already told you a little about the city we live in, Al Ain. We like
it here, except for the excessive amount of roundabouts that the
people drive recklessly through. It is very green here and family
friendly. The weather is also nicer with less humidity, even though
it is still in the mid 90's late October.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Al Ain in split into districts. We live
in the Muwaiji District in a complex called Muwaiji Village. We like
the complex for a number of reasons.</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
There is a parking garage below
the complex, so your car stays cooler. Also, you have to have a
clicker to get through the gate to the garage, so random people
can't drive down there.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The elevator from the parking
garage is right near our flat.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
There is a pool and gym. Ryanne
likes that there is a women's only swim time and a women's only gym.
</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The rooms are all off a corridor
inside, so if you walk to a friend's flat, you can walk inside in
the AC.
</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The neighbors are all so nice. We
have a community facebook page and everyone will help anyone else
out. People will help others move stuff, set things up, babysit...I
even had a bunch of people let me borrow dresses for a wedding I
went to. Right now we are in the process of planning a
Trunk-or-Treat event with cotton candy and jump houses for the kids.
It is a nice community.
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFe4KyLexQA8ZpGxDV6hPapWyGv4rTNdcPI8HNOU0fRAd37GhbbSW0vSLn5LEW9dtlgr1irGjw1osgr7ymY1viHR2IevAK0e9XICuwRxWF7R9eHWGrZZgwScJ7v9EVboOyqPszzRdvhG1/s1600/427539_886758781313_1357102016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFe4KyLexQA8ZpGxDV6hPapWyGv4rTNdcPI8HNOU0fRAd37GhbbSW0vSLn5LEW9dtlgr1irGjw1osgr7ymY1viHR2IevAK0e9XICuwRxWF7R9eHWGrZZgwScJ7v9EVboOyqPszzRdvhG1/s320/427539_886758781313_1357102016_n.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pool</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qnCNUbSFbiC00DNEzd-pjOBuAVMqvHI8uh3ixH1EEkGGigBOUxpItMeEgLUHBa6BjOAVXLJB4PX7ZTGIhwo3_6BClb6ioNIWglA45ANgE3eboPaOZZ1_-wC13VwgVxWMIHiAPD2w2gcK/s1600/425911_3874578068915_109709725_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qnCNUbSFbiC00DNEzd-pjOBuAVMqvHI8uh3ixH1EEkGGigBOUxpItMeEgLUHBa6BjOAVXLJB4PX7ZTGIhwo3_6BClb6ioNIWglA45ANgE3eboPaOZZ1_-wC13VwgVxWMIHiAPD2w2gcK/s320/425911_3874578068915_109709725_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Street view of complex</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7qCs_krkRb-hk9e_gTSfhKxwnFJUUBB_h2_uzJ2G88AqZRGUlsB36Zi-aHmLHaPJW1QCFa2achjcXlUKjWVsk3Vw7kVWk2LfdMwsUEj-AvXVf0FwqzxdxymDUPdx3drixVlXbaxkNsrY/s1600/417501_886758816243_1656878923_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7qCs_krkRb-hk9e_gTSfhKxwnFJUUBB_h2_uzJ2G88AqZRGUlsB36Zi-aHmLHaPJW1QCFa2achjcXlUKjWVsk3Vw7kVWk2LfdMwsUEj-AvXVf0FwqzxdxymDUPdx3drixVlXbaxkNsrY/s320/417501_886758816243_1656878923_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Men's gym</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZrI6Ieu5SJ_F8L1lO9ETxl42Xd3NfuQXUX6f0D-m0y2xexWF-gZwI2gFNIRPgOzuE-AVmAoZE35ulkxAtiqgBbjOOl0y-0ohDh6OK-Zcq-8zdyKE_15mSwzRbic6CgIMu-1MqXz4_DYIF/s1600/76214_3874579348947_452711272_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZrI6Ieu5SJ_F8L1lO9ETxl42Xd3NfuQXUX6f0D-m0y2xexWF-gZwI2gFNIRPgOzuE-AVmAoZE35ulkxAtiqgBbjOOl0y-0ohDh6OK-Zcq-8zdyKE_15mSwzRbic6CgIMu-1MqXz4_DYIF/s320/76214_3874579348947_452711272_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cleaner in parking garage</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbLbYHurExbWtvne03-QnqB7MZXCwvNdKyXeXQ3xeL0UtNI39OCnfOR4xUaYR8ytbHyx5bMKtIkejU2y-fZkh2y4GIFVnRDeu14NKsaVCqn-tp8zdZO-8i2zoHYdi3OAwLLaVLKM-49ij/s1600/102_0808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbLbYHurExbWtvne03-QnqB7MZXCwvNdKyXeXQ3xeL0UtNI39OCnfOR4xUaYR8ytbHyx5bMKtIkejU2y-fZkh2y4GIFVnRDeu14NKsaVCqn-tp8zdZO-8i2zoHYdi3OAwLLaVLKM-49ij/s320/102_0808.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our hallway</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWl-ZF4iqw5kohy0rLxJ5Bfipbywx5ZU3E472tVQvbHVAfSX8zAvoBTEOFVJEKwcPxhKjg8TNecLki6Z6SZOSMdBkvaI4n6zFmtxtsc6_kd7vuL_XdjsNFcAeDHm28bFkWv3k3wY_IHtF/s1600/102_0810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWl-ZF4iqw5kohy0rLxJ5Bfipbywx5ZU3E472tVQvbHVAfSX8zAvoBTEOFVJEKwcPxhKjg8TNecLki6Z6SZOSMdBkvaI4n6zFmtxtsc6_kd7vuL_XdjsNFcAeDHm28bFkWv3k3wY_IHtF/s320/102_0810.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Door to our building</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPPX2SQq82uA-0VDzsKdZMEd7OHl4lFzcRTDiDmHj_QgbVPK6SUP2bIgvGgzgfadVapvIFN7f9qBJMNOzFTL4uqCLxDTloPLc3E_Y6cHpGNvCnK4Nu7ZXi39qdxuJTSFjzAduh6DPReyZ/s1600/102_0809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPPX2SQq82uA-0VDzsKdZMEd7OHl4lFzcRTDiDmHj_QgbVPK6SUP2bIgvGgzgfadVapvIFN7f9qBJMNOzFTL4uqCLxDTloPLc3E_Y6cHpGNvCnK4Nu7ZXi39qdxuJTSFjzAduh6DPReyZ/s320/102_0809.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Welcome to our flat</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Of course it is not perfect.... but
that's the country for you. It took awhile for plumbing to get right
and it still can be odd at times. It takes awhile to get maintenance
to come and do things and people park in the street when they should
park in the garage. Overall though... not too much to complain about.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Our flat is nice, especially
considering it is paid for. We have the basics but are still working
on decorating.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When you walk in there is a hallway
that goes straight down through. Off the hallway is an alcove. We
have a washer/dryer combo. It washes and drys in the same machine. We
added shelving and a curtain to make it more like a closet space.
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK4GDQCuIuyEaGyIC6SbYWjeaYrNYx2UlTq3V7uvlHX0B2FCtFbaIh7QXE0stZ9y1jkNLyz9S8Nu5Zic0mhyphenhyphen6zUInnD0PQv_r6_4C-d8Xx7jw6dhe0l2Ek23ccCwckJ9efMpPx8dhPfJS/s1600/102_0807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK4GDQCuIuyEaGyIC6SbYWjeaYrNYx2UlTq3V7uvlHX0B2FCtFbaIh7QXE0stZ9y1jkNLyz9S8Nu5Zic0mhyphenhyphen6zUInnD0PQv_r6_4C-d8Xx7jw6dhe0l2Ek23ccCwckJ9efMpPx8dhPfJS/s320/102_0807.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Entrance hall</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxgr_khyphenhyphenULJ6o-L82Msb-lDOpIK8WXp8WPkTbX4docBbKJehPnl4UQXZ84ai_lFbN8rUf8BhZy2pdAbzd3D3s8-YkiC5R0_Ic7jAn_I4GHLNWyzRDRRiv0InZOU7Ub9h-H-DyUVSjJKdl/s1600/102_0813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxgr_khyphenhyphenULJ6o-L82Msb-lDOpIK8WXp8WPkTbX4docBbKJehPnl4UQXZ84ai_lFbN8rUf8BhZy2pdAbzd3D3s8-YkiC5R0_Ic7jAn_I4GHLNWyzRDRRiv0InZOU7Ub9h-H-DyUVSjJKdl/s320/102_0813.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Washer/dryer</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The first thing off the hallway is a
small half-bath on the right. Nothing special.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSgfv6Kd0D2urUJolYyzAiAWRgqWu8Myj9g8fqztiCfDiLl5aXuWhSbihquUz1JHQKgZQSH0kTyyH2AMcIe6KEv3axW-6UgSumt0bmePO1iMZEK0u4Z2G_cyR-5GiUc80Kb5JEN33qKZW/s1600/102_0806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSgfv6Kd0D2urUJolYyzAiAWRgqWu8Myj9g8fqztiCfDiLl5aXuWhSbihquUz1JHQKgZQSH0kTyyH2AMcIe6KEv3axW-6UgSumt0bmePO1iMZEK0u4Z2G_cyR-5GiUc80Kb5JEN33qKZW/s320/102_0806.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The next room on the right is the
kitchen. We decided to not purchase a stove. Instead we have a large
toaster/roasting oven, a burner, and a large griddle/grill. We are
able to cook all we need on those and it takes up less space. The
space where the stove would go, we put extra shelving for food. We
are glad we went with that option.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6KXdBLT41BGRCvOqcNmEM9SoQx9w3crpiwnMvbVBF84AmbxkOQgdCZeokDoVZ6Utfyw4B0VaY-a3QbtAWo8K6f_tkW_EP7DWd6jYGuM7BjgJZUy4-niZTorT2-V29cxf63rWoltUuakM/s1600/102_0811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6KXdBLT41BGRCvOqcNmEM9SoQx9w3crpiwnMvbVBF84AmbxkOQgdCZeokDoVZ6Utfyw4B0VaY-a3QbtAWo8K6f_tkW_EP7DWd6jYGuM7BjgJZUy4-niZTorT2-V29cxf63rWoltUuakM/s320/102_0811.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTW28_UyK1ccH3RJB6k2P2Woe9rxnGe7242CQO1lj8TaFqKoAKCfHoseQpayx2vWHXWXpyIUSC38QPltzlb-stYfknd7ge8NI6H-94W-kpb1wWOXvM3DfmHS4nQelLBmeaTPCGzDS4Hxej/s1600/102_0812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTW28_UyK1ccH3RJB6k2P2Woe9rxnGe7242CQO1lj8TaFqKoAKCfHoseQpayx2vWHXWXpyIUSC38QPltzlb-stYfknd7ge8NI6H-94W-kpb1wWOXvM3DfmHS4nQelLBmeaTPCGzDS4Hxej/s320/102_0812.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
At the end of the hallway is our
bedroom. Shawn actually picked out most of the color scheme and I
love the bright colors. We got the bed frame, nightstands, and
dressers used. We have a few things to hang on the wall, but haven't
gotten to that yet. We also just got the TV for the bedroom, so we
are still looking for another table to put it on. It was a good
purchase though because I like to lay down in bed and night with my
feet up and can unwind with some American TV.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyIvrXe5iI0gkTdYyfG_Cxnr-bAmHbDI6r6KA1GuvqR7xKJglcLHLN3ISHPMorcGLMF04brxBkKUT32nI-CeegmzcyQ0sLrmTrnYisaHvDwi856Au2aRkD2WViQ8xIWnAM5ijOYXF3I3C/s1600/102_0820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyIvrXe5iI0gkTdYyfG_Cxnr-bAmHbDI6r6KA1GuvqR7xKJglcLHLN3ISHPMorcGLMF04brxBkKUT32nI-CeegmzcyQ0sLrmTrnYisaHvDwi856Au2aRkD2WViQ8xIWnAM5ijOYXF3I3C/s320/102_0820.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpYiU8T0nU3oJ72KS1Kcd8Jv_ys5JUbY64lCMBAszXs0EmqqhA68UGymhw5cAXKr8lONMFG-j7BLiNln0JcUXUJWHZ1VQBa16QY4l542n52xCAQvY04pnf1MLpGB9Il1FVvCs99h9UdDJa/s1600/102_0821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpYiU8T0nU3oJ72KS1Kcd8Jv_ys5JUbY64lCMBAszXs0EmqqhA68UGymhw5cAXKr8lONMFG-j7BLiNln0JcUXUJWHZ1VQBa16QY4l542n52xCAQvY04pnf1MLpGB9Il1FVvCs99h9UdDJa/s320/102_0821.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr46UkxaISqeuDv8YFU0oPMxxPj-vNace4xUzJ58j1rz8aTB2pfuaku5CqqDOkt4ScaniVjdBJl_QeWyzJpzgPl9Yyu3n2ryCPhx3lad72QEQR5-j4mVLgfwUbBIu_fcgJ2P8O6jrOuxud/s1600/102_0822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr46UkxaISqeuDv8YFU0oPMxxPj-vNace4xUzJ58j1rz8aTB2pfuaku5CqqDOkt4ScaniVjdBJl_QeWyzJpzgPl9Yyu3n2ryCPhx3lad72QEQR5-j4mVLgfwUbBIu_fcgJ2P8O6jrOuxud/s320/102_0822.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Off the left at the end of the hallway
is the baby's room. It is my favorite room in the house! We bought
the crib used, and they gave us the bedding. We went from there with
colors and a theme. We have some wall stickers to hang on the walls.
We still need to get the rocker, and maybe a daybed for guests. I
love to come stand in this room! His bathroom also went along with
the theme. There is another alcove behind his door, so we added some
shelving to use as a closet space. There are no closets in the flat.
Most places over here do not have closets.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8wPQSAIT6HVlIKELfjO53NPQMlBGNeOv6LJ9roPoeTAyLrSQ85BKFhNqXf9n_wurF28XIxmvBKi7xNnP57fklYWz4cd19gvYYUU9YsJcdjxs5ymrMJMQov_eoCs2GdKIiify9JM6B_2Y/s1600/102_0817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8wPQSAIT6HVlIKELfjO53NPQMlBGNeOv6LJ9roPoeTAyLrSQ85BKFhNqXf9n_wurF28XIxmvBKi7xNnP57fklYWz4cd19gvYYUU9YsJcdjxs5ymrMJMQov_eoCs2GdKIiify9JM6B_2Y/s320/102_0817.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3eyYRPVUo_sO7kGSRmSSiOsjc3VWr50WQEXRy7uhrTAvLEi0Q9ws4t56e19wcbGy7xqrEbXBu8KJpGBmyqPTsUPimi8KxxyVWyePCsNbp2i3CZD2S28YphfIwCf9hUW861WwgXEJFu3IY/s1600/102_0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3eyYRPVUo_sO7kGSRmSSiOsjc3VWr50WQEXRy7uhrTAvLEi0Q9ws4t56e19wcbGy7xqrEbXBu8KJpGBmyqPTsUPimi8KxxyVWyePCsNbp2i3CZD2S28YphfIwCf9hUW861WwgXEJFu3IY/s320/102_0818.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoT1Mj4htUt_w_Jar3vsg0-bfIUNKc96_xZyDGDx9leQbHojI28n0kTuCd-zkwMP5sAJ5bJmJmqUI_B9sasXh7SrVOCjJrwkdO9I0WLo4lijW6pVSajKR0j3p04mXlSXKOO_wfiW7O1p0W/s1600/102_0819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoT1Mj4htUt_w_Jar3vsg0-bfIUNKc96_xZyDGDx9leQbHojI28n0kTuCd-zkwMP5sAJ5bJmJmqUI_B9sasXh7SrVOCjJrwkdO9I0WLo4lijW6pVSajKR0j3p04mXlSXKOO_wfiW7O1p0W/s320/102_0819.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5noRuE4xBolCJrdx_uLKrSUEwyDBr_L7jPYj0-dq10nf2-T2x8HNKLCYjX60Mx7bPgTUzciMysQJDLfq8Xs9vhkSa08q5GdDUtBiHYVujQI4ycO_CkOrg5xm-tyEn-iOw2HdGFXbgs_1/s1600/102_0814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5noRuE4xBolCJrdx_uLKrSUEwyDBr_L7jPYj0-dq10nf2-T2x8HNKLCYjX60Mx7bPgTUzciMysQJDLfq8Xs9vhkSa08q5GdDUtBiHYVujQI4ycO_CkOrg5xm-tyEn-iOw2HdGFXbgs_1/s320/102_0814.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
On the left of the hall when you walk
in is our living space. It is our living room, eating area, and
office. The first item we bought was the red couch, and we went from
there. We still need to decorate and hand things on the wall, but
overall it is a nice space. We spend a lot of time on that couch!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpyMAr62Q8nXtro2r4an-cyvq3WQUB4fRm4gJboneNKtweKy47WxWIaX6HUvgjcLQfy0n7wAem4eaRXTsFQr_w621jwaQhRzgNtJaxTGglsstYMzpOUZwOt-mg0AR6HinoFyGeUdCxR4i/s1600/102_0802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpyMAr62Q8nXtro2r4an-cyvq3WQUB4fRm4gJboneNKtweKy47WxWIaX6HUvgjcLQfy0n7wAem4eaRXTsFQr_w621jwaQhRzgNtJaxTGglsstYMzpOUZwOt-mg0AR6HinoFyGeUdCxR4i/s320/102_0802.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqboIo3xza5RWbTHADVBixWM-kaKrL9SxwpF0Brg6LYPyFx-Jc6B_dcTF6U6SrZafrcVk4BJgBgL5J-XrvbgPiP5AV3W6jfVZI7IeGU0DvhN1Kp_OpZMhNyAY7CIbn66_Bo7Xvt8Cs9ykV/s1600/102_0803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqboIo3xza5RWbTHADVBixWM-kaKrL9SxwpF0Brg6LYPyFx-Jc6B_dcTF6U6SrZafrcVk4BJgBgL5J-XrvbgPiP5AV3W6jfVZI7IeGU0DvhN1Kp_OpZMhNyAY7CIbn66_Bo7Xvt8Cs9ykV/s320/102_0803.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-C09AW6JOArvTstH_unzNzkWwfcCFxbA79f6VFsMahjM1vVgzaWHAB_5mCNPtX7pzvHCuNtwPPcCX5-ebxZ51OJ0FIuTtfZh_SwskTmsFVYnoF4p_rEGcEC2Lptrp-Xz8F3G97ApUluj/s1600/102_0804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-C09AW6JOArvTstH_unzNzkWwfcCFxbA79f6VFsMahjM1vVgzaWHAB_5mCNPtX7pzvHCuNtwPPcCX5-ebxZ51OJ0FIuTtfZh_SwskTmsFVYnoF4p_rEGcEC2Lptrp-Xz8F3G97ApUluj/s320/102_0804.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXe7IVztzPRUQhTQKnRI7irOgr06Ls1H5ESSthqdBtDxRJL6HHmseXeMnxjDI8ETwobHh0lAJ3oId50ZYdm7thwxlIzEYU78n7B9Snz0PElNBrtswlWSMTvv9qzUv0npM-uqklhHCpjKG2/s1600/102_0805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXe7IVztzPRUQhTQKnRI7irOgr06Ls1H5ESSthqdBtDxRJL6HHmseXeMnxjDI8ETwobHh0lAJ3oId50ZYdm7thwxlIzEYU78n7B9Snz0PElNBrtswlWSMTvv9qzUv0npM-uqklhHCpjKG2/s320/102_0805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So there is our home. Hope you like it! </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-32532132189785812442012-10-05T02:44:00.000-07:002012-10-05T02:44:28.913-07:00A day in the life of a teacher...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A day in the life of an Al Ain
teacher...
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
6:00 am the alarm goes off and I get up
and ready. This includes throwing on an abaya or kandura over my
growing belly, making my lunch for the day, and updating myself by
reading everyone's facebook status. Shawn and I then head down to the
parking garage below our flat and head towards another teacher's
flat. On the way we listen to the 7:00 news on the classical radio
station.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1p46m_GUCelis5vPONCDRC8qRvlsiKNNMdZKeHOX4G0Ne3Suol9hsxaTbrowmEUN3hH5KdH3_74OJAwcFNSkkg7puW2F9Gnc9oSXUjBTylLsODUDGdyTtv0KnQ04taG2yrpX_pXRgk09/s1600/201561_899033218243_2019865262_o+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1p46m_GUCelis5vPONCDRC8qRvlsiKNNMdZKeHOX4G0Ne3Suol9hsxaTbrowmEUN3hH5KdH3_74OJAwcFNSkkg7puW2F9Gnc9oSXUjBTylLsODUDGdyTtv0KnQ04taG2yrpX_pXRgk09/s320/201561_899033218243_2019865262_o+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One kandura... I don't wear my slippers to work though! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Up until last week we would pick up two
other teachers, Samina and Larisa, and then Shawn would drive us to
work. Last week, Samina rented a car and so Shawn just brought me
over to the flat and Samina drove.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFOISGvqfjJoxXfuOQ72PhOF3MfqMXoXupYxJzUEcEn6MyjxSKgTzUEhtQWeg90szcvxj54DjPqFn9DEN92iMWT3ZdxgTLXElgExpTbQ8pcU52sbha2zgZlSdCLSSYAbMVC1LsBzA4ouo/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFOISGvqfjJoxXfuOQ72PhOF3MfqMXoXupYxJzUEcEn6MyjxSKgTzUEhtQWeg90szcvxj54DjPqFn9DEN92iMWT3ZdxgTLXElgExpTbQ8pcU52sbha2zgZlSdCLSSYAbMVC1LsBzA4ouo/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Larisa and Samina</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9BGKIZMqMdNXbpgNhJp_mQ0rhVsGAWRwYTV6TmqLdXUl7LwYoXmAQI4pP5srbMAVZresPUGEAg3AJS8FVi6xVjAULKeEvTZZQHSm0gkN9bpBFMXvK_cMA6m338ugd3cz3MKaqzrp7cpi6/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9BGKIZMqMdNXbpgNhJp_mQ0rhVsGAWRwYTV6TmqLdXUl7LwYoXmAQI4pP5srbMAVZresPUGEAg3AJS8FVi6xVjAULKeEvTZZQHSm0gkN9bpBFMXvK_cMA6m338ugd3cz3MKaqzrp7cpi6/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Samina and I in our abayas</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The drive to work is about 30-40
minutes. My school is actually in Remah, not Al Ain. We usually get
there by 7:45. When we arrive, we have to punch a number into a
keypad and have our finger scanned to clock-in. Series business!
Then, depending on my schedule, I go get my room ready.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
My schedule is different everyday and I
teach both grade 2 and grade 3. The day runs on a seven period
schedule. Here are the periods:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
1: 8:15-9:00</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
2: 9:00-9:45</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
3: 9:45-10:30</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Break 10:30-10:50. This is when the
entire school is on break. All the girls (KG-Grade 12) run around the
courtyard and eat, and teachers go to the lounge or sit in their
classrooms. No one supervises.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
4: 10:50-11:30</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
5: 11:30-12:10</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
6: 12:10-12:50</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Break: 12:50-1:00 (Just like the other break)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
7: 1:00-1:40</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdlzW26Rg8elmw_XsVsq-HutxRJa1IULBliXPi3_XfxYOwmYnxsusTBy3iu3DfhezPpE9cCynJmVBCAtj2WtucVnOWs8QKgIP-MUVkAfJ08mfZtA99HibL2b09pMXslvNoACKohYyUxIw/s1600/408355_903105377603_1218640500_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdlzW26Rg8elmw_XsVsq-HutxRJa1IULBliXPi3_XfxYOwmYnxsusTBy3iu3DfhezPpE9cCynJmVBCAtj2WtucVnOWs8QKgIP-MUVkAfJ08mfZtA99HibL2b09pMXslvNoACKohYyUxIw/s320/408355_903105377603_1218640500_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Girls getting food at the cantina</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjly4ekchehkwJ4WmYsO_IAxkaxkEAq5cqwHzc_zVE_HcU5_VFsdpT6VfeQVMIWGNWkrj1aZGI8qOVV_dBGcvWGxEsjmLts6e4Sq9UPdbOotkExjgeqyj6p1ldxig7rzpqrzUtwB3JLXQkQ/s1600/548525_903105452453_441287369_n+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjly4ekchehkwJ4WmYsO_IAxkaxkEAq5cqwHzc_zVE_HcU5_VFsdpT6VfeQVMIWGNWkrj1aZGI8qOVV_dBGcvWGxEsjmLts6e4Sq9UPdbOotkExjgeqyj6p1ldxig7rzpqrzUtwB3JLXQkQ/s320/548525_903105452453_441287369_n+-+Copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
82 cents snack</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfD7fVnu7vKk-io-Cexw1xKR0H_ztRHRXeoOshWR05nN3gx-FH9yPBWgyr1_tsXC8BWOyy772XIFKF-KwZ90rJ4LPP3i1VLJyYDMZnFTOQbjpAtgGvxRVRmwsfdU086bcuO56ij_ZLlWM/s1600/545618_903105317723_1951113941_n+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfD7fVnu7vKk-io-Cexw1xKR0H_ztRHRXeoOshWR05nN3gx-FH9yPBWgyr1_tsXC8BWOyy772XIFKF-KwZ90rJ4LPP3i1VLJyYDMZnFTOQbjpAtgGvxRVRmwsfdU086bcuO56ij_ZLlWM/s320/545618_903105317723_1951113941_n+-+Copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
School girls on break</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Teachers then can leave at 2:00, except
on days for PD (professional development), where we leave at 3.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Here is my weekly schedule: (3=Grade 3,
2=Grade 2, F=Free)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<table border="1" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;">
<colgroup><col width="43*"></col>
<col width="43*"></col>
<col width="43*"></col>
<col width="43*"></col>
<col width="43*"></col>
<col width="43*"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td width="17%">
<br />
<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
Sunday<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
Mon<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
Tues<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
Wed<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
Thurs<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td width="17%">
Period 1<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="4" width="17%">
4<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="5" width="17%">
5<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="6" width="17%">
6<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="7" width="17%">
7<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="2" width="17%">
2<br />
</td>
<td sdnum="1033;" sdval="3" width="17%">
3<br />
</td>
<td width="17%">
F<br />
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So... whichever class I am teaching
first, I head to that room to get ready. This includes pulling my
locking suitcase out of the corner and pulling my box down from the
top shelf. I get out the supplies we need for the day, and put my
behavior system on the board. It is then time to head out for morning
assembly.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Every morning all the girls and
teachers assemble in the courtyard outside for morning assembly. The
girls line up 2 by 2 according to class in a horseshoe shape. First,
we listen to a reading of the Quran. Then, three students march to
the flagpole, wearing the UAE flag banner on their shoulders, and we
listen to/sing the national anthem. While the students march, there
are three students in the back that play the drums and accordion.
After the anthem, a song plays that all the students dance to. There
are also some points where the students bang the drums and students
have to either raise their arms up, put them in front, or stand at
attention. The principal may say a few words (everything is in
Arabic) and then music plays as we walk our students in line to their
classrooms.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI9vzWtcQF-xoWq6Ubyc7wbiXGEJ1EML7rD0uE8TtpzHxQXSwwjBfUuGRmF3Xss67wLF2vUpg1j1qk2Rk3ewe3pYoSUZfFMgOVGuE6YdmpI7zEhSdRrIFT-MBsH2bkL8kxAMumKHKhKZr/s1600/391699_903105178003_1132998732_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI9vzWtcQF-xoWq6Ubyc7wbiXGEJ1EML7rD0uE8TtpzHxQXSwwjBfUuGRmF3Xss67wLF2vUpg1j1qk2Rk3ewe3pYoSUZfFMgOVGuE6YdmpI7zEhSdRrIFT-MBsH2bkL8kxAMumKHKhKZr/s320/391699_903105178003_1132998732_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The courtyard</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfQFj7sqTCkkP9tzpLJugWh9FFB8K4sfOqUDjvTkUupe6KuIUJb-JefhXbH83mSG0o0hnZcs0d5M3IouR25OWpkI-zj3FG6UY0s61P7ksJNHyvMLKb4p5xkKYUaP-2JUDU2HMAR6sZNFn/s1600/564706_903105232893_2139224099_n+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfQFj7sqTCkkP9tzpLJugWh9FFB8K4sfOqUDjvTkUupe6KuIUJb-JefhXbH83mSG0o0hnZcs0d5M3IouR25OWpkI-zj3FG6UY0s61P7ksJNHyvMLKb4p5xkKYUaP-2JUDU2HMAR6sZNFn/s320/564706_903105232893_2139224099_n+-+Copy.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Hall"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
With Grade 3 I teach literacy, math,
and science in English. This usually involves: a morning welcome,
review of rules, and handing out/checking homework and behavior
charts. Then a mini-lesson. For the last two weeks they have been on
short and long vowel sounds. Even though the girls are grade 3, their
English reading skills are about a kindergarten/grade 1 level. This
past week I worked on introducing literacy centers. These include
working with dolch sight vocabulary words, writing skills, and
listening/speaking.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The grade 3 girls' behavior is not
terrible, but definitely need works. These kids are used to being
raised by nannies and doing whatever they want at home. Learning to
move around the classroom and doing their work without playing will
take time, but they will get it.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In math we usually work with
manipulatives. This week it was adding, subtracting, and even/odd
numbers. We haven't started science yet, that will be next week.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFQNF9o-aRvQfG-EMoqc5KssLiB4Br074F9DYEjnvQTzjrsIE1p0pQZO4dywRnpRPvPIE46nJ5gxOP6VDN2UQuLKYVJPr_T4t0R7GU2QvsnsFiEpKu1JTkvUbA3AKxLdvwxyYPVInVqPF/s1600/246712_903105572213_1488791535_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFQNF9o-aRvQfG-EMoqc5KssLiB4Br074F9DYEjnvQTzjrsIE1p0pQZO4dywRnpRPvPIE46nJ5gxOP6VDN2UQuLKYVJPr_T4t0R7GU2QvsnsFiEpKu1JTkvUbA3AKxLdvwxyYPVInVqPF/s320/246712_903105572213_1488791535_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Behavior system and rules</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bnzMy4Bk9CZ_Lzl5muoZpp3MhCCO1kHBz1yCnNBaH-NcXTeRoIXMeMivn7VbJiQEEiO78ndPIx_ZBo3E3bAT89Y_7VKl7unXdE1Rz_Apv_fC7fbxHA8BZWkU7EC2nKWoQxJ5XLzYhhU0/s1600/408827_903105986383_573950677_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bnzMy4Bk9CZ_Lzl5muoZpp3MhCCO1kHBz1yCnNBaH-NcXTeRoIXMeMivn7VbJiQEEiO78ndPIx_ZBo3E3bAT89Y_7VKl7unXdE1Rz_Apv_fC7fbxHA8BZWkU7EC2nKWoQxJ5XLzYhhU0/s320/408827_903105986383_573950677_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grade 3 students at work</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0Cd608_cJzcHB5pON4LZn2toJ3VEpS3f9rssqrUI1rkUfEt9jJ6W74_fksv-uYE5k3I0ynoHmR2af6lZizBoL5SBCSOxZK9wO2y87RJAHr43B4SYg-O_bHJb0L9jHgSPxrDLe3jTKhRq/s1600/536108_903105612133_707618850_n+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0Cd608_cJzcHB5pON4LZn2toJ3VEpS3f9rssqrUI1rkUfEt9jJ6W74_fksv-uYE5k3I0ynoHmR2af6lZizBoL5SBCSOxZK9wO2y87RJAHr43B4SYg-O_bHJb0L9jHgSPxrDLe3jTKhRq/s320/536108_903105612133_707618850_n+-+Copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grade 3 classroom</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwAT1MIbTvVzEEVh5-7CnJRx6fqYtG2QMCKy53_eYMzoMcnQU3ah-aE2Y_4AURzY2kpoNZK1rnYPi17VoF_7W04-Mkhyphenhyphen-TposhixERFBjypFdkAKK4bj-9BO1WWGYJhYu6omTyj3_kkIk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwAT1MIbTvVzEEVh5-7CnJRx6fqYtG2QMCKy53_eYMzoMcnQU3ah-aE2Y_4AURzY2kpoNZK1rnYPi17VoF_7W04-Mkhyphenhyphen-TposhixERFBjypFdkAKK4bj-9BO1WWGYJhYu6omTyj3_kkIk/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My board</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When I finish with a class and have
free periods, I pack up my suitcase and roll it down to the teachers
lounge to work. I sit at a desk and eat, grade papers, and plan
lessons. It is funny because the Arabic teachers do no work. They
teach about 2 periods a day, and then sit in the teacher's lounge
drinking coffee and gossiping (in Arabic of course). They don't have
much of a work ethic, so when they see me working they are always
interested in what I am doing and why.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wGPyqO1H_-cC-Ita_nFaj-x67eTfEvI2EdQxc5TNz868c76rBNWahxOGzuV3v0AEFueEzprLYNQiYlkp1VdQDr-oX3vSauLLBhUdBWAgeod9LkTPOJT-o9vhweEjve5I2-iMmrhodzwn/s1600/301195_903104858643_895370904_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wGPyqO1H_-cC-Ita_nFaj-x67eTfEvI2EdQxc5TNz868c76rBNWahxOGzuV3v0AEFueEzprLYNQiYlkp1VdQDr-oX3vSauLLBhUdBWAgeod9LkTPOJT-o9vhweEjve5I2-iMmrhodzwn/s320/301195_903104858643_895370904_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Where I work</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQPzV2OVn28HBh3ub0I_UdIBttYXN-jkaDTuK6bmzge6HAYFOr5JPYmStkBRbppGV1q2QIIDcxm6BvUjv9BsbnyXeJmN7btRhQRV695R1uXpNFJhTLwjHEa1KVXCKAII_be7w27W4C2wn0/s1600/528620_903104808743_1118913259_n+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQPzV2OVn28HBh3ub0I_UdIBttYXN-jkaDTuK6bmzge6HAYFOr5JPYmStkBRbppGV1q2QIIDcxm6BvUjv9BsbnyXeJmN7btRhQRV695R1uXpNFJhTLwjHEa1KVXCKAII_be7w27W4C2wn0/s320/528620_903104808743_1118913259_n+-+Copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Teacher's lounge</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAk6Maumcy8btOWPHTaKj6g-ePxemwR0JAordbIF0so9IhoAJUF5hP5r29AAalUGkPCx8IgeqGLOcs_XcPFKI5LFFxoQns8u1iYe94FWpB1PnxuVdhSfLTjjWn7Ry_OPa_S3HVWsYhUmX/s1600/527781_903105118123_1189003771_n+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAk6Maumcy8btOWPHTaKj6g-ePxemwR0JAordbIF0so9IhoAJUF5hP5r29AAalUGkPCx8IgeqGLOcs_XcPFKI5LFFxoQns8u1iYe94FWpB1PnxuVdhSfLTjjWn7Ry_OPa_S3HVWsYhUmX/s320/527781_903105118123_1189003771_n+-+Copy.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My work space with suitcase</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When it is time, I roll down to grade
2. I share grade 2, so I only teach them math (in English). We will
also share science, but haven't started that yet. The grade 2 girls
are much more wild then grade 3. Even though there are only 12 of
them, they are a hand full! Their Arabic teacher is new and has no
structure or discipline. Sometimes I think she doesn't even watch
them, as the class is left in a nasty mess after school when she has
them. They love to get up and run out the door, try to sneak and eat
in class, play, shout, and more. We are slowly working on how to sit
and raise our hands. They do well with a sticker system, and of
course bribing them with candy and chocolate.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8skW2Kkf7lqowcJ4Fv4m1_4Xqx9JRzm5rQ9JHBvKR1ewwJYaERMpEhvIrRpggWdU_23XEEM_TppZ8aZs_6Z2vZehEvTd4lwZ1gq0yNkWVn0bN5_kZ4laxAvYhOjkKqkNAsA7dbqSElws/s1600/269124_903106026303_1524393750_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8skW2Kkf7lqowcJ4Fv4m1_4Xqx9JRzm5rQ9JHBvKR1ewwJYaERMpEhvIrRpggWdU_23XEEM_TppZ8aZs_6Z2vZehEvTd4lwZ1gq0yNkWVn0bN5_kZ4laxAvYhOjkKqkNAsA7dbqSElws/s320/269124_903106026303_1524393750_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grade 2 girls at work</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJKjxN47JaaKUzDdOkdif7GE1DraELQeICVFJ5W54onRcT1edobrBzFPFY8jSUGQKRLe9Lli5ju7lpA6CvoVDAprtaRNYeowTzNJ8Mfs8ZGKS3ANhaVeLFLGlzXX2zeTRP3FKB6_C4VUU/s1600/photo+1+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJKjxN47JaaKUzDdOkdif7GE1DraELQeICVFJ5W54onRcT1edobrBzFPFY8jSUGQKRLe9Lli5ju7lpA6CvoVDAprtaRNYeowTzNJ8Mfs8ZGKS3ANhaVeLFLGlzXX2zeTRP3FKB6_C4VUU/s320/photo+1+-+Copy.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Classroom after Arabic</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGu6ldjXy4XAlj1men_gUosa_KvRI2zjL8UtOGxPkAYZj-fMlqnYSGY-iU3dNEpnwl1hGWSebtPb7fpAiUcerjKymnRAJgr_AU_f6GXFY2Bl2-zB2cmJGetBie12jaeIdtCGn3b5y3TF8a/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGu6ldjXy4XAlj1men_gUosa_KvRI2zjL8UtOGxPkAYZj-fMlqnYSGY-iU3dNEpnwl1hGWSebtPb7fpAiUcerjKymnRAJgr_AU_f6GXFY2Bl2-zB2cmJGetBie12jaeIdtCGn3b5y3TF8a/s320/photo.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Left in a mess</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHN-9PTIEx0T7Q8KLj6Vyf2wi-MQiwrh-SoZ6c4_48lk72uYFEVGfq9nU3azGv8fGOz5J-DZ3hLx0ULqF48H4mQt7eW_cOZWKpIXYX0gZr4rKf9SQofVbEIT26YCHQvYwE-bqMnyuSCBNC/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHN-9PTIEx0T7Q8KLj6Vyf2wi-MQiwrh-SoZ6c4_48lk72uYFEVGfq9nU3azGv8fGOz5J-DZ3hLx0ULqF48H4mQt7eW_cOZWKpIXYX0gZr4rKf9SQofVbEIT26YCHQvYwE-bqMnyuSCBNC/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Classroom after I leave</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When I finish grade 2, I once again
pack up and either head back to the lounge or get ready to go home.
Remember how I said we can leave at 2... well it is more like you do
leave at 2. Five or ten minutes after 2, if we are still here, we are
told we are “staying too late.” There goes that work ethic! We
clock out with a finger scan and head home!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjI8o5FV-pQduIX51PkUgbWfdBzdjZgaNRdTOEN1lCF0p5K_iWLsFYnybbec7gf24k_f4ckWfkzPYj7Oo3-GNeOi3kOFTR5NCafk81TofH8B2ENvFGGUhO2tBtCAOLXMPcSn0cECDDixR/s1600/282162_905711010893_343321047_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjI8o5FV-pQduIX51PkUgbWfdBzdjZgaNRdTOEN1lCF0p5K_iWLsFYnybbec7gf24k_f4ckWfkzPYj7Oo3-GNeOi3kOFTR5NCafk81TofH8B2ENvFGGUhO2tBtCAOLXMPcSn0cECDDixR/s320/282162_905711010893_343321047_n+-+Copy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View across the street from school on ride home</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I am usually home by 3 and have plenty
of time to go to the pool, gym, or just relax. It is very nice!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So there are definitely pros and cons
to working here.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The school is in the middle of nowhere.
The kids have no structure or discipline and can usually do whatever
they want. Even when I am teaching, other kids will come in my room
for no reason. The Arabic teachers do not offer support. Most of them
won't give us a key to the room. The resources are slim to none and
the one copier just started working. We have no wireless and it is
hard to access a computer, because I can't use the room on my break.
Not having my own room is hard as well, especially planning and
organizing supplies.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Yet, I work a lot less and don't have
to go crazy with planning and lessons. I still work hard, but nothing
over the top. I have a lot more free time at home. The perks are
great with healthcare and housing and I get a good maternity leave.
So, overall... not bad. You just have to remember all the pros when
the kids are shouting “miss, miss” at you and acting like little
monkeys! I am looking forward to vacation in about three weeks!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
And that's my day! </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-35505510995951380972012-10-04T07:13:00.001-07:002012-10-04T07:13:17.047-07:00School Begins!! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The first day of school was a shock!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The week before school started for the
kids, we had orientation in Al Ain. During the orientation, the new
teachers were supposed to meet the HOF (English Head of Faculty) for
their school and then the HOF would take them to school to meet the
staff. When our turn comes, I meet two other new teachers I will be
working with, but find out there is no HOF. So while everyone goes to
see their school, we got sent home.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The nest day we all had another
orientation in a new school's auditorium. Just as the orientation is
beginning, our names are called. We walk over to the side of the
stage and meet the cluster manager for our school. We left the
orientation and he took us to the school.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we arrive we learn a couple of
things. The HOF from last year went home and hasn't been replaces,
and the English cycle one (elementary teachers) also went home. There
are two KG (Kindergarten) English teachers and two Cycle 3 (High
school) English teachers. The school is a small rural school, from KG
to Grade 12.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
One of the KG EMT's (English medium
teacher) takes us to meet the principal, who proceeds to ask us what
grade we will be teaching. (Previously we had been told the principal
would assign us to a grade). The three of us left and discussed which
grades we wanted, and then returned to her office to let her know. I
asked for grade 3, but because there are only three of us and 5
grades, I was given grade 3 and a share of grade 2. Saminia, from the
UK, was given grade 1 and shares grade 2 with me, I do grade 2 and 3,
and Larisa, from New York, was given grade 4 and 5. The principal
then asked us for a schedule. We were very confused, because we
though she would give us a schedule. We left and wrote something
down, just an outline of how many hours we'd teach English, math and
science a week. The pricipal approved and then told us to go see our
rooms.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Our rooms were a shock as well. Very
bare and the little bit of resources were spread out in a bunch of
different rooms. We worked on getting our resources together and
learned that we won't have our own rooms and will be sharing them
with the Arabic teachers. Then around noon, all the teachers decided
it was time to leave. Did I mention that it was Thursday (their
Friday) and the kids were coming on Sunday (their Monday)? Yikes.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So school started on Sunday and I had
no lesson plans, no classroom ready, no schedule, no class list....
yep. Very different from the USA. I basically spent the day inside
the grade 3 room playing games, singing songs and coloring. At one
point the Arabic teacher showed up so I could have a small break. She
apologized for not being there earlier, as she went home to “feed
her baby.” It was a long day! Yet, as the days went by... we
started to get schedules and semi-class-lists.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It has been a month now and things are
starting to feel “normal.” I will run you through a typical day
in my next post!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Unrelated to school: We celebrated
Shawn's b-day here. We went to a place called Wadi Adventure, and
extreme water sports park, where he went surfing. Then we went to the
mall where he did some indoor snow-less skiing. We finished up with
diner at a nice restaurant. They bring you a stone grill and your
meat and you cook it on the stone at your table. It was nice!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VeH6KjpFr_b2sRQPYFaOU7KjRBYDbx-a6an7PeLajULyjNwyofkkG1fvUXalUSaP7KbYvYa2S1zu7Qrmrg9Jge7CVmSMoKNPea9Tg8jG0BuXAqggGD5IvzOtuzAQ6RE-64ffhUGgfBOn/s1600/210475_896315963643_700369426_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VeH6KjpFr_b2sRQPYFaOU7KjRBYDbx-a6an7PeLajULyjNwyofkkG1fvUXalUSaP7KbYvYa2S1zu7Qrmrg9Jge7CVmSMoKNPea9Tg8jG0BuXAqggGD5IvzOtuzAQ6RE-64ffhUGgfBOn/s640/210475_896315963643_700369426_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wadi Surf Pool</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQhoNOqDvEqjiNXIm_X6WDiwO6wMfe_ITvzQoW2YJHmeuG5yqy7c7ukoarM4WIVfdWwiLEZTjHPlMuTvglbEUns7p5yLLTb2Q_TD7v-0aphsT7jOlZwOyjddntRaOb2Rwomt-ZTs1_Pld/s1600/241253_10152098205380352_1140888164_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQhoNOqDvEqjiNXIm_X6WDiwO6wMfe_ITvzQoW2YJHmeuG5yqy7c7ukoarM4WIVfdWwiLEZTjHPlMuTvglbEUns7p5yLLTb2Q_TD7v-0aphsT7jOlZwOyjddntRaOb2Rwomt-ZTs1_Pld/s400/241253_10152098205380352_1140888164_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Birthday dinner</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-90229633351258486762012-10-04T05:59:00.001-07:002012-10-04T05:59:49.653-07:00Moving in... and Inshallah <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In the beginning of September we moved to the Hilton in
Al Ain... and said goodbye to our five star treatment. No more free
water, or free internet! That was the hardest part, but we did begin
really getting our flat together. Here is our experience:
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The first thing we did was hire a
cleaner to clean the whole place. She did a great job. One of our
toilets was really bad though. It looked like the sewage backed up
and sprayed out in the toilet. We told the cleaner not to worry about
that, because the manager at the complex said they would clean it.
After a few days of calling, I came home and Shawn had cleaned it
anyway.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We went to the mall to get our internet
set up and ordered a fridge and washer/dryer. The washer/dryer was
delivered two days later... no fridge. They said it would come
“tomorrow.” A week later they sent us the wrong one, it was
smaller than what we ordered. We sent it back. We still have no
fridge :(</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The internet people came a few days
after we ordered it and said a cord was broken. They came back a few
days later... first at 9:30 and then at 10:30. We were excited. They
said they would be back at 3. They didn't show. A week later Shawn
went to the head office... and we finally have internet!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Our Ikea furniture was delivered a few
days ago along with our mattress... we are still waiting for our
couch. We are still waiting for the plumber to come fix two of our
toilets as well.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So the moral... things here are
different. You have to have a lot of patience. Things will get done,
but yo never know when. There is a different way of thinking here. It
is interesting, some things here are advanced. The banking system is
very secure and the architecture is amazing. Yet, things like
furniture take forever to get delivered and stuff get done
“Inshallah.”
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
As soon as the place gets more together
I will post pictures. We have lived here for a few days, so we are
still unpacking. We really hope our fridge comes soon though, cause
we are tired of eating out. Here is the baby's crib and our bed:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9m-r9rFDoK1kfBssDAaAFpg57f80QSYpQLPfNy2A56iF99wxWolmhFlvkEpy_6gcil0UAL0QQdIFdo2sn0WORLnDRc1HEDDAcayh8DaG6HicsodDoHyxFX-Oc9QdyLoORugUtcLqJ7mDE/s1600/216921_896102077273_680391749_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9m-r9rFDoK1kfBssDAaAFpg57f80QSYpQLPfNy2A56iF99wxWolmhFlvkEpy_6gcil0UAL0QQdIFdo2sn0WORLnDRc1HEDDAcayh8DaG6HicsodDoHyxFX-Oc9QdyLoORugUtcLqJ7mDE/s320/216921_896102077273_680391749_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYxWIbG8E8ePlQL0N4Cwx3juUm__A2LAthBbSS8mWdivNWxcQSnWkCDmmtEuV5csh1uCS7t_zkfHMyNSGllnFYPhfOkRHSB078_yTmbFIDq2SgyjhSf9-LTAeEg-KixE3NEnakV7l2you/s1600/386315_895265803173_1035342230_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYxWIbG8E8ePlQL0N4Cwx3juUm__A2LAthBbSS8mWdivNWxcQSnWkCDmmtEuV5csh1uCS7t_zkfHMyNSGllnFYPhfOkRHSB078_yTmbFIDq2SgyjhSf9-LTAeEg-KixE3NEnakV7l2you/s320/386315_895265803173_1035342230_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-25030509578881227672012-10-04T05:56:00.002-07:002012-10-04T05:56:59.060-07:00Let's step back... <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A backtrack...</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Things got crazy for awhile with moving
into our flat and having no internet. So let me highlight some of the
things that happened.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
While in Abu Dhabi we went to the Grand
Mosque. It was beautiful. It is called the Sheikh Zayed Mosque as it
was commissioned by the late president and father of the UAE and is
his resting place. It is also the largest mosque in the UAE and the
8<sup>th</sup> largest in the world. We took a tour led by an Emirate
and it was very interesting. Here are a few pics:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGinVU-qTZ3fQtAVzQZvBDHJBsME3d9bcikqp6jkKy6eztadg2_q_HGAxe_I2zL1xG6G0Rkxtk-nCK1X1uflmVZYSWgQ7yTACU9B-zsYBwMYPv73M13L6bgpaPHjaK7FbWweRTtfPMCJQE/s1600/228491_891691695713_2135773144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGinVU-qTZ3fQtAVzQZvBDHJBsME3d9bcikqp6jkKy6eztadg2_q_HGAxe_I2zL1xG6G0Rkxtk-nCK1X1uflmVZYSWgQ7yTACU9B-zsYBwMYPv73M13L6bgpaPHjaK7FbWweRTtfPMCJQE/s320/228491_891691695713_2135773144_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGlQfOgrQlufIuTpuCwQ2bUG9r_so-Py1lO1pnqqmCIdPcHzfKXPL2cNfS9o7VZaW4DtbDnsMLyIK0XYdKzOLrKrrjSHdva5qAcxiLMGf9Bv0wBH9-2mu9toEQuJrJCNYty7sdQZqbWik/s1600/378581_891691885333_327512504_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGlQfOgrQlufIuTpuCwQ2bUG9r_so-Py1lO1pnqqmCIdPcHzfKXPL2cNfS9o7VZaW4DtbDnsMLyIK0XYdKzOLrKrrjSHdva5qAcxiLMGf9Bv0wBH9-2mu9toEQuJrJCNYty7sdQZqbWik/s320/378581_891691885333_327512504_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBA1q5cRr7MqfUzU3N10avN9bMqg88nIu9LYntpK57uhBpZjRObckMQmoaP_ORKrLfcN5rVoGKMW4BogvgNOhuWCmHE8bK_HyTNFd6w4t5ONPh4luS6aP-y3cQOXJbn7V0v0uJqIEpaU24/s1600/418869_4481629161154_1177313496_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBA1q5cRr7MqfUzU3N10avN9bMqg88nIu9LYntpK57uhBpZjRObckMQmoaP_ORKrLfcN5rVoGKMW4BogvgNOhuWCmHE8bK_HyTNFd6w4t5ONPh4luS6aP-y3cQOXJbn7V0v0uJqIEpaU24/s320/418869_4481629161154_1177313496_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With our friends the Safars and Shon</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0-czquKw9JtWqAQYWcuI3XSqk9EfpD9Xdg3_YL6sdiNoWu_Y85FhfAD_sZJpa05JhX7fTYUJzoUOtWuTXHQJjfzGjGkAzjJLVXNdXzvFC6eB_Fh_1QOsJJw_zZnc6EVxXJQgFrP766pn/s1600/539214_891691431243_1343908393_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0-czquKw9JtWqAQYWcuI3XSqk9EfpD9Xdg3_YL6sdiNoWu_Y85FhfAD_sZJpa05JhX7fTYUJzoUOtWuTXHQJjfzGjGkAzjJLVXNdXzvFC6eB_Fh_1QOsJJw_zZnc6EVxXJQgFrP766pn/s320/539214_891691431243_1343908393_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj494bMqezx0LJ3IwTZP7FclRExIITlaDxqPJPxJBmOcN7FqliOp7gAn9RgzZxezDvhV5UkmzWQgtyqGyGJpdTpb8dXNUg7jEmAU3IgYvcvrGU330XyU4kPKDUxP3Hfx_RBug3F4ArJ6t3f/s1600/547335_4481626441086_1760872745_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj494bMqezx0LJ3IwTZP7FclRExIITlaDxqPJPxJBmOcN7FqliOp7gAn9RgzZxezDvhV5UkmzWQgtyqGyGJpdTpb8dXNUg7jEmAU3IgYvcvrGU330XyU4kPKDUxP3Hfx_RBug3F4ArJ6t3f/s320/547335_4481626441086_1760872745_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Women must be covered for respect inside the mosque</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MvkXJmFtdTfmJymbFFpKpWPCUDsWRy7QqQXJdUw-ipoI4ur_qNDkMOalJyhgNeSol8YjzALd4q7yvU9hD7sz0bsJQCe5obxHHkmDXqcIzVwF_degvAI1pheRIs0LE2vICzgXg8FIP7Rq/s1600/552062_891691491123_1919382100_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MvkXJmFtdTfmJymbFFpKpWPCUDsWRy7QqQXJdUw-ipoI4ur_qNDkMOalJyhgNeSol8YjzALd4q7yvU9hD7sz0bsJQCe5obxHHkmDXqcIzVwF_degvAI1pheRIs0LE2vICzgXg8FIP7Rq/s320/552062_891691491123_1919382100_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQwYsps1Q-UqWzWGrmzo92znac3Jco1kdQYHsCJO98IFvUi2bIg0V-VVBiq3qoXd5qqbPOj_8jrQswEU2BHmPSA70b_p7Yys9mvbG0b8yyBlYZi930rBnjbNkqbkgZRFdebwGUbky24pyB/s1600/555605_891691765573_1033171835_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQwYsps1Q-UqWzWGrmzo92znac3Jco1kdQYHsCJO98IFvUi2bIg0V-VVBiq3qoXd5qqbPOj_8jrQswEU2BHmPSA70b_p7Yys9mvbG0b8yyBlYZi930rBnjbNkqbkgZRFdebwGUbky24pyB/s320/555605_891691765573_1033171835_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Largest one piece of carpet in the world</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyqiteBiFeQDm21xSUQsp7_P6eIr8c8M5JPgz1JbewWAAc7gpNirHuTSfUGxLmIhMwix5NDoxLGOi4RsQPPp-qAI2yVSVnQFbSCDFbQJKIzz4Ji32IutissEncxu30vKIJyadfGAVgm2p/s1600/556444_891691551003_727661489_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyqiteBiFeQDm21xSUQsp7_P6eIr8c8M5JPgz1JbewWAAc7gpNirHuTSfUGxLmIhMwix5NDoxLGOi4RsQPPp-qAI2yVSVnQFbSCDFbQJKIzz4Ji32IutissEncxu30vKIJyadfGAVgm2p/s320/556444_891691551003_727661489_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We spent a day driving to Al Ain from
Abu Dhabi to look at some furniture and check on our place. It was an
interesting trip because we got lost. We had heard about a furniture
store to check out so we tried to head that way. First we tried the
GPS, but because nothing really has addresses here it is hard to find
places on there. Then we tried asking people and calling places.
Finally after 2 hours of driving we ended up at a mall. I was
starving, so I decided to give up and eat. While at the mall we
picked up a map, and there on the map 5 minutes away and clearly
labeled was the store. In the end, the store was disappointing, but
we learned to use and trust the map!
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR6MVQie1uWPGm2fG7Ta1Hnpx44mKgxqc-VWOAbRwIc_SiTZ6Hxbf0gbwG1nQ9_Z21zs2hP4r3C5rXuSNrZO-BC7JNCa6i8mVUEPUWKpvbcBnyM9vrI4Z3gc673R_ficxPI7kcf3i1VQ8R/s1600/AIN_MAP_1_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR6MVQie1uWPGm2fG7Ta1Hnpx44mKgxqc-VWOAbRwIc_SiTZ6Hxbf0gbwG1nQ9_Z21zs2hP4r3C5rXuSNrZO-BC7JNCa6i8mVUEPUWKpvbcBnyM9vrI4Z3gc673R_ficxPI7kcf3i1VQ8R/s320/AIN_MAP_1_005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
PS: They LOVE round abouts! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I had orientation for two days at a
beautiful brand new school in Abu Dhabi. The speakers had some good
things to say about their vision for the future. They understand that
the oil will run out, and want to create a society that is well
educated and self-sufficient. They have a long way to go, but change
doesn't happen overnight. We spent one day in a whole group
orientation and another in breakout groups. We also had photos and
fingerprints taken... series business! Anyhow... I felt as ready as I
could. We also went to something called the Bedaya... which means
beginning. All the teachers go to the convention center for a huge
conference. It was all in Arabic, but we wore headsets so that it was
translated. It was a big deal and was even broadcasted on the news,
but a bit boring. They did feed us really well afterwards!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMN93HZjy1lDRzYhLw4naMnAHazCB5_LWIXILluUMgCKX5h7FzKHOORjpW4aHI1Cnqf0WfJRY-BhBGFhPt7XuHyNWtR5mZtttNYYGULRLonRP6JcTO2Ofdjxi4b7VnnJaLcuQmu6Fkr_Dr/s1600/adec01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMN93HZjy1lDRzYhLw4naMnAHazCB5_LWIXILluUMgCKX5h7FzKHOORjpW4aHI1Cnqf0WfJRY-BhBGFhPt7XuHyNWtR5mZtttNYYGULRLonRP6JcTO2Ofdjxi4b7VnnJaLcuQmu6Fkr_Dr/s320/adec01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlPv6JpCgS_5R9XBOyGcoZ1554j9i7t80-NoFR0h4BLazD2-UJOwnVb99VkWvpRtpdMeWBrPwjuOC0NZo_gLlHpGJgFm51sfqF9NPRKcRP4v4Wl61QarM8VufRkCrIEcoMgwJ3gwpvsZb/s1600/bedaya-Gharbiya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlPv6JpCgS_5R9XBOyGcoZ1554j9i7t80-NoFR0h4BLazD2-UJOwnVb99VkWvpRtpdMeWBrPwjuOC0NZo_gLlHpGJgFm51sfqF9NPRKcRP4v4Wl61QarM8VufRkCrIEcoMgwJ3gwpvsZb/s320/bedaya-Gharbiya.jpg" width="191" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXaHUeSreGUYt9TR-9-wKG9pAiWLmFGK5jF-XrKFU32yzcRBvfiNLMp5lwZh2aJCYSQMwqhyphenhyphen_vnr4qmUcZkoKOrNpaw8Jd1x6owCS7YOg5XTQ2RCjQHzWwRs2owjhZopRvvSg9eMYf_tJg/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXaHUeSreGUYt9TR-9-wKG9pAiWLmFGK5jF-XrKFU32yzcRBvfiNLMp5lwZh2aJCYSQMwqhyphenhyphen_vnr4qmUcZkoKOrNpaw8Jd1x6owCS7YOg5XTQ2RCjQHzWwRs2owjhZopRvvSg9eMYf_tJg/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We finally got our housing allowance...
so that meant an all day trip to Ikea. We originally thought we would
buy most stuff used, but we were having trouble finding things at a
reasonable price and getting it moved to our place. We decided to
just buy stuff from Ikea, and spent literally spent the whole day
there picking out furniture, linens, and other household items. We
even had lunch there. So excited to see all our stuff in our new
place.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1P9rS_XlZ33hONdyN1wbphTxrvXrRgXwO657IVmeSmcOrRm0Fh4toTbmeIi9-opo_3BKSiknSG8lDvtPDXvOGNxQiB7spXg1WmzFqI1wu-DSaIC3tcji0cpoZ1LdbsNWEAEM9UhdDUaA/s1600/P1000032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1P9rS_XlZ33hONdyN1wbphTxrvXrRgXwO657IVmeSmcOrRm0Fh4toTbmeIi9-opo_3BKSiknSG8lDvtPDXvOGNxQiB7spXg1WmzFqI1wu-DSaIC3tcji0cpoZ1LdbsNWEAEM9UhdDUaA/s320/P1000032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Besides shopping, being a tourist, and
meeting friends for dinner... we spent most of our time relaxing by
the pool, at the beach, and sleeping :) Then it was time to move to
Al Ain!!! </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-29715083740587142842012-09-18T08:49:00.005-07:002012-09-18T09:03:20.113-07:00An Emirati Wedding! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">First of all... sorry I haven't posted
in a long time. Between moving hotels and into our flat and no
internet for awhile... I am behind. I am in the process of writing a
catch-up blog... but wanted to write this before I lost the memories!
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Our principal's son had a wedding on
Monday (17-September) night, so of course we all had to make an
appearance. I had heard that the women go all out, so the first thing
I set out to do was borrow a dress. I still haven't been paid, and
there was no way I could afford to go buy a dress or wear my worn out
skirts. On a side note, this is another thing I love about where I
live. Our complex has a facebook page, and as soon as I asked if I
could borrow a dress, I had 5 to choose from. I love my neighbors. I
decided on a purple gown that was beautiful, and stretchy so it fit
over my growing belly. I picked up a headband and some earrings at
LuLu's, borrowed a hair straightener, and layered on the make-up. I
was ready to go:</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YG66xWICUSh0EKvfAcn9Y_5cxWZNrbKGWufjDazoEwPUtJ7vKJnK4FelbTsRmGOOheD8ssQVJJOr8cF9m7eb4fimVUGFfRRmQ-gtPEkF2Vp8_vUzJuXJAl5U4wXGsTg6u3O-r530sF2S/s1600/102_0583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YG66xWICUSh0EKvfAcn9Y_5cxWZNrbKGWufjDazoEwPUtJ7vKJnK4FelbTsRmGOOheD8ssQVJJOr8cF9m7eb4fimVUGFfRRmQ-gtPEkF2Vp8_vUzJuXJAl5U4wXGsTg6u3O-r530sF2S/s320/102_0583.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fixing my hair</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-sMxGZ_xOJF2Dp8CY9Bph7ZrOr2U_uaMNfqp2F4sRH_r_xhuslNzrx2xwaWSZuulnoSd8AaeuUh_F9h_LncqHYq0faIzot6KwO1AI7MgcjLjKZex8KB1pWNe8mhGfzdmSmOwbpn-tTIJ/s1600/102_0586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-sMxGZ_xOJF2Dp8CY9Bph7ZrOr2U_uaMNfqp2F4sRH_r_xhuslNzrx2xwaWSZuulnoSd8AaeuUh_F9h_LncqHYq0faIzot6KwO1AI7MgcjLjKZex8KB1pWNe8mhGfzdmSmOwbpn-tTIJ/s320/102_0586.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ready</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3yZ1mjAWCLs2dBa_hc4JLlRYPXk77wK6bF4NzMWZY7tLBNqB-LuepmN5N1EMfWOXV0O-5PlxVQtCaZk53EVjpq3iyPO3lziIO4iZCbkxi-2drLuL0HXtC9dOwqbqib0lHPY5StyHbGGs/s1600/102_0587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3yZ1mjAWCLs2dBa_hc4JLlRYPXk77wK6bF4NzMWZY7tLBNqB-LuepmN5N1EMfWOXV0O-5PlxVQtCaZk53EVjpq3iyPO3lziIO4iZCbkxi-2drLuL0HXtC9dOwqbqib0lHPY5StyHbGGs/s320/102_0587.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Baby bump</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf4hMsPhyDlzB6dNdBkGcTR0QwaRiJSV6ZmND8AbXm4BnT9CASQsb51hOXebcl9xDE9oHHTavNS9kxbh7mqC-rXTDS3YY3pnUk2BrmmcMNmMk-r9FVanhGi2hjbasmY_zBS21J9WOWM0o/s1600/102_0589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf4hMsPhyDlzB6dNdBkGcTR0QwaRiJSV6ZmND8AbXm4BnT9CASQsb51hOXebcl9xDE9oHHTavNS9kxbh7mqC-rXTDS3YY3pnUk2BrmmcMNmMk-r9FVanhGi2hjbasmY_zBS21J9WOWM0o/s320/102_0589.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have to have emo shot! </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
wedding started at 8, but we were advised not to show up right at
8:00. Larisa and I got there about 8:15. We walked through the main
door to be greeted by many women in abayas and batoolas
(a traditional face covering), as well a shrill greeting called a
zhagaroot.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyL2vSpLwRZYdQrVjWKsmvv22ffBPyrfEn0c81Jt8aNuy2T2hFRqEVf_XRWmlz8CiqScCLfAyyGKhaoWdn44syPpnsw_e0LqaiPu6rA_ALK4DMv0glcrfk64HwCtlOLBBUF4-KyGynvPLy/s1600/5maekh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyL2vSpLwRZYdQrVjWKsmvv22ffBPyrfEn0c81Jt8aNuy2T2hFRqEVf_XRWmlz8CiqScCLfAyyGKhaoWdn44syPpnsw_e0LqaiPu6rA_ALK4DMv0glcrfk64HwCtlOLBBUF4-KyGynvPLy/s1600/5maekh.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
a batoola</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: white;"> We passed through the line and by ladies with glass
bottles of Arabic perfume and entered a huge hall. There were tables
throughout, as well as a huge stage, runway, and TV screen. Our
principal found us, and I almost didn't recognize her dressed in her
beautiful gown. We then made our way to a table. You are not allowed
to take pictures... but I snuck in a few! </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzKHLNxPiw29s6RRLNIXjkaIML1r8BYMfFR3jl9dATWvWKnK9ke0QNnK7pnHE7Ic-TBfwCgECQteEizdlijdcQlLwrGWx1Zio-EgRXaKQP33kxTF-58G8ed0am_dG0dZvZtZcpTAf-MkJ/s1600/102_0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzKHLNxPiw29s6RRLNIXjkaIML1r8BYMfFR3jl9dATWvWKnK9ke0QNnK7pnHE7Ic-TBfwCgECQteEizdlijdcQlLwrGWx1Zio-EgRXaKQP33kxTF-58G8ed0am_dG0dZvZtZcpTAf-MkJ/s320/102_0591.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">At
the table was a ton of food. Hummus, tabouleh, fattoush, grape
leaves, cake, pita, cheese bread, pastries, meat wrapped in bread...
yummmm! We were brought fruit drinks, Arabic coffee and tea, and
water. The other EMTs arrived and soon the entertainment began.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Let
me first explain some rules about an Arabic wedding. The men and
women are kept separate. The men celebrate outside with food, music,
and dance. They preform traditional dances with a cane. We can watch
them on our huge screen as they are videoed outside, but they cannot
see us. The women stay inside, and so can wear anything they want....
and they do! I will get to that later.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7g4tJfDzfF1xB96c1hpSTx_Gf7T0kFVb6bYVyyehP7OOxORHEyw7djCPoZQ1S098ZISywJgkryewoXrkpOn2WHdOdD3gjfPveGA7AdJFv9G5wWM57fVOjI1tGMrCObITU_U_M5w1kG3l/s1600/05+Cane+dancers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7g4tJfDzfF1xB96c1hpSTx_Gf7T0kFVb6bYVyyehP7OOxORHEyw7djCPoZQ1S098ZISywJgkryewoXrkpOn2WHdOdD3gjfPveGA7AdJFv9G5wWM57fVOjI1tGMrCObITU_U_M5w1kG3l/s320/05+Cane+dancers.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
traditional cane dancers</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">(Side
note: one little boy kept dancing in front of the camera... it was
very humorous)</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
women's entertainment was a singer, singing Arabic songs, with
dancers. The dancers were like belly dancers, but not showing their
belly. The shook their hips and whipped their hair, and even the
singer shook her stuff! As the night went on, many young women joined
them on stage to shake their stuff as well.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: white;">The
dresses are amazing! Rhinestones, and lace and everything else. Their
hair is curled and done and the makeup is piled on. They all could
have been brides! One of my favorite things I did was just watch the
women and their dresses. Even the little girls were all done up. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdug83_9OkkXViIWX6aNmXi9iTmjuOzjH3LN1u0WntGExCV9_1NsUoODZfTnoFimsWuAxg894I1lj07Yrrf75nofmYJfXgUqonx9syg_ocKTmZAG99WDRz9ZpbVvEsfKDNTRMEIgJT1fim/s1600/evening-dress-arabic-e7701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdug83_9OkkXViIWX6aNmXi9iTmjuOzjH3LN1u0WntGExCV9_1NsUoODZfTnoFimsWuAxg894I1lj07Yrrf75nofmYJfXgUqonx9syg_ocKTmZAG99WDRz9ZpbVvEsfKDNTRMEIgJT1fim/s320/evening-dress-arabic-e7701.jpg" width="189" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqonZl0n9tvN85UWZl1RWP9r6cm7UVfVPVqS2tyP-q1oCtl7gs5-5hKEaWtlN6rxY9wW9sv-BESxLsYJVfjFHrOEb_O0_MzdKGn-eS5O42tgAVPs8DJPKGbqI1KgHnG1ESJ_bZkdQGguu/s1600/2226150252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqonZl0n9tvN85UWZl1RWP9r6cm7UVfVPVqS2tyP-q1oCtl7gs5-5hKEaWtlN6rxY9wW9sv-BESxLsYJVfjFHrOEb_O0_MzdKGn-eS5O42tgAVPs8DJPKGbqI1KgHnG1ESJ_bZkdQGguu/s320/2226150252.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Examples of dresses at weddings</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">While we sat there and chatted, with
entertainment in the background, more food was brought out throughout
the night. This included some sort of chicken (oatmeal) dish, another
meat dish, kabobs, and a HUGE platter of lamb and rice. This platter
included the lambs whole head intact. There was so much food, I hope
it was brought to the poor afterward because I know there must have
been tons leftover.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0c3YyaI_zZ7j_vStopilAimNxeAtrCe4phAziz-sDg-3NKQWAAt-gDDURuW5wNcvOOhtBGdnxcAQl4s0Vh1Roxke1SGAs2JPxYs_ht2LdJqFQASEbcC2giAM4qQXrJ6dqXv9twCoD3XBe/s1600/102_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0c3YyaI_zZ7j_vStopilAimNxeAtrCe4phAziz-sDg-3NKQWAAt-gDDURuW5wNcvOOhtBGdnxcAQl4s0Vh1Roxke1SGAs2JPxYs_ht2LdJqFQASEbcC2giAM4qQXrJ6dqXv9twCoD3XBe/s320/102_0593.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sneaky picture of rice and lamb platter</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, during this whole time, the bride
is not at the party. She is sitting behind some panels/doors waiting
for her big reveal. So around 10:15... it was time!
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The panels parted and out stepped the
bride. Her dress was beautiful... like thousands of dollars in New
York beautiful. She then proceeded to slowly, and I mean slowly, walk
across the stage and runway. This probably took 30 minutes. It was so
slow and she posed with every step... it reminded me of a show pony.
This wedding was a double wedding, so after she made it back to her
huge cushion/seating area... the next bride came out and did the same
thing. By this time we were exhausted and had to work the next day,
so we decided to leave.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFdZNgH6B_766a2Iti85KAy1u7fodsYP15uTjakR4wGUlpe0wcS2XsksxCcGPyWZ4woNE964Z4kMdwbMUxmzixBY3x6poqDpqWj6wKEuEmJlhK8IoaCiclafKtqO6lPsu0PiAabEDO0Al/s1600/bride-show-abu-dhabi-Day+4+Photo+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFdZNgH6B_766a2Iti85KAy1u7fodsYP15uTjakR4wGUlpe0wcS2XsksxCcGPyWZ4woNE964Z4kMdwbMUxmzixBY3x6poqDpqWj6wKEuEmJlhK8IoaCiclafKtqO6lPsu0PiAabEDO0Al/s320/bride-show-abu-dhabi-Day+4+Photo+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Example of wedding dresses they would wear</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Just to let you know, what would happen
after we left is the women would be told the men are entering. They
would all cover up and the groom would then come in to get his bride.
They would leave, the men would go back outside, and everyone would
continue to party.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">All in all it was a very interesting
experience. Being a foreigner, it was a bit boring because you just
sit for hours. I am sure if I was a Emirati and could get on stage
and shake it, it would be more fun. I am glad I went... even if I am
super sleepy! Now to return all the borrowed dresses :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sneaky video I took:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwpERDauu8C9bSUbzzpmiB_NFaYUH7lGjPHlz8CgiJnrC-wMp4EecV3mrB0_xOOwKm_pSqNHbqCPdROQ3-kaw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-38489729505417559872012-08-24T05:51:00.001-07:002012-08-24T05:51:23.194-07:00Happy Anniversary <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tuesday, August 21, was our three year
anniversary. I feel very blessed that I even got to spend it with
Shawn, since originally we thought he would still be at home. Oh, and
we did get to go to Dubai the day before, which is a pretty good way
to celebrate, but we still wanted to do something nice.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The first thing we did was relax! Slept
in and took it easy. We then decided to do a late lunch at a
restaurant called Tiara. It is located in a tower 55 stories tall at
the mall with a beautiful view of the coast and city. It also rotates
360 degrees around while you eat. It was amazing. We ordered
mocktails... you can't get alcohol in restaurants here (not like I
could anyway)... and I had a delicious chicken meal.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T48pZMovK_xnv36DjCbhALJ3qhhoUL7SSTFR37OjKbXlarCpNiwuapjwtyTzrzOnvFpqFRJlkZhfhyphenhyphenie87noVIV3crJTMyDyPas2aqJqDiCg_zeeLgNPbYJahs6nPRGUfHWzo_tgB7Yr/s1600/CAM00114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T48pZMovK_xnv36DjCbhALJ3qhhoUL7SSTFR37OjKbXlarCpNiwuapjwtyTzrzOnvFpqFRJlkZhfhyphenhyphenie87noVIV3crJTMyDyPas2aqJqDiCg_zeeLgNPbYJahs6nPRGUfHWzo_tgB7Yr/s320/CAM00114.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3czAqnwLyiJrXSy6Ew3caH04I5SbytaF093uFF-nPuYRMoAZsaLzX6hAnmnQWGEww1ZJdw7SHe-riF-5gISaL16wuZyJSv5EiHgtSdspxgLPWVHJTO9erCfa9cSifghFSD2ST8Bgmc0B/s1600/CAM00118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3czAqnwLyiJrXSy6Ew3caH04I5SbytaF093uFF-nPuYRMoAZsaLzX6hAnmnQWGEww1ZJdw7SHe-riF-5gISaL16wuZyJSv5EiHgtSdspxgLPWVHJTO9erCfa9cSifghFSD2ST8Bgmc0B/s320/CAM00118.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyukUZo0ozgbiNKfiZrnYjYJDs4fiZenXaWhN7WMVWIICSZqb5uRrNVQOXYhjFjXLAIMW_dkzDxh6PfDhhZg8eCdOSv4NXYE4lIgcG2RQx2YXaMm53hLXpxZsSn5k2I8eFCtrU_iZPXXft/s1600/CAM00120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyukUZo0ozgbiNKfiZrnYjYJDs4fiZenXaWhN7WMVWIICSZqb5uRrNVQOXYhjFjXLAIMW_dkzDxh6PfDhhZg8eCdOSv4NXYE4lIgcG2RQx2YXaMm53hLXpxZsSn5k2I8eFCtrU_iZPXXft/s320/CAM00120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkpxb_2R2w1UoR4gy9O7maKwD_C_2L8Q3k0zN5AFkhfmNjVRPuhLHBdwEnPRKJtK5SbymtQdXBzGY2XB0eBRtudo0WMxBmvdsUmBd9mQzQvOBQiD6dW2jGQTkgAuL7NBARarKiS1Lxekg/s1600/CAM00123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkpxb_2R2w1UoR4gy9O7maKwD_C_2L8Q3k0zN5AFkhfmNjVRPuhLHBdwEnPRKJtK5SbymtQdXBzGY2XB0eBRtudo0WMxBmvdsUmBd9mQzQvOBQiD6dW2jGQTkgAuL7NBARarKiS1Lxekg/s320/CAM00123.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After our late lunch/early dinner,
Shawn ran my leftover food back to the hotel while I popped around
some stores. When you are on a budget with no kitchen, you save any
food you can! We then decided to see the new Batman movie at the
theatre in the mall.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The movie experience here is much
better than at home. For about the same price, if not a little less,
you buy your tickets and pick your seats. This is an assigned seat
where you want in the theatre, which is nice because when you go in
you don't have to spend time finding seats. The concession area has
all types of food, drinks, ice cream, etc... If you want you can even
upgrade seats to a fully reclining leather seat with access to a full
menu where they serve you at your seat with pillows and blankets!!!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Our seats were very nice though... huge
and leather. Very comfortable. The screen was larger and very clear,
and the sound was fantastic. All in all a great movie experience. I
did enjoy the movie as well. It was in English with Arabic and French
subtitles. They bothered me a little at first, but by halfway through
I didn't notice them at all.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It was a very nice anniversary and I
feel very lucky to be married to my best friend!!!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Wednesday was a nice relaxing day as
well. We spent the morning lounging about before heading to Heritage
Village. It is an area set up to look like Abu Dhabi in the past,
with example buildings, homes, and shops. It was very hot and I
drenched my clothing in sweat, but it was manageable as there were
places to pop inside with AC on. It was a nice free activity and we
learned a lot!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoY0tDImF23OIKcVBbOMDPbJigmphyphenhyphenKKvgPiLSyPqnzwCaSZoq1tQQlHz6et60y9tKuUb6s3UHDKa6MtBk93sbe3JcBn1zHrZpUb1N3j47ZUBw7Ok9K7BcYg_2G-ApS3Us42v8AEYBMixG/s1600/CAM00001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoY0tDImF23OIKcVBbOMDPbJigmphyphenhyphenKKvgPiLSyPqnzwCaSZoq1tQQlHz6et60y9tKuUb6s3UHDKa6MtBk93sbe3JcBn1zHrZpUb1N3j47ZUBw7Ok9K7BcYg_2G-ApS3Us42v8AEYBMixG/s320/CAM00001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iMxTifOxffB-uavAv43e1xHKE6gWccjI4huHu8QRbSQjAk_etYJTIwUHgsII1tukT93Oq1Knv4AzBCIG8eUUUNhcBYqR0sEOoBN_kuIWYUGRtdaGWXguoW35zI91o1UAaTeLO6nxikKT/s1600/CAM00144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iMxTifOxffB-uavAv43e1xHKE6gWccjI4huHu8QRbSQjAk_etYJTIwUHgsII1tukT93Oq1Knv4AzBCIG8eUUUNhcBYqR0sEOoBN_kuIWYUGRtdaGWXguoW35zI91o1UAaTeLO6nxikKT/s320/CAM00144.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iSRfOAP6UqFXNdR1M-SUMf1mqR983E5NQcnLHQ-RXpZvvcCgdvjl3vJb7USZKx9Pj8qgK4uZn5yNhFcp6Uwu6XNduKHCRrsWZJSB4ydBMM3duTjWmYxk4Fa0KPRiRGLeRfsbirKrWR8A/s1600/CAM00143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iSRfOAP6UqFXNdR1M-SUMf1mqR983E5NQcnLHQ-RXpZvvcCgdvjl3vJb7USZKx9Pj8qgK4uZn5yNhFcp6Uwu6XNduKHCRrsWZJSB4ydBMM3duTjWmYxk4Fa0KPRiRGLeRfsbirKrWR8A/s320/CAM00143.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiTU6uROO4DT0UDQ2_VydJP28iYIAYdNyvDQFlaGVLVX7mXMcBe7T63Kgck15BQ4tPyRnfxWslP16G8SXqseC3pdQiDzmeLI5LxmV0-eiIpMY_r59nEM8rxbKioQbUmanFcGXK2ml1eKc/s1600/CAM00137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiTU6uROO4DT0UDQ2_VydJP28iYIAYdNyvDQFlaGVLVX7mXMcBe7T63Kgck15BQ4tPyRnfxWslP16G8SXqseC3pdQiDzmeLI5LxmV0-eiIpMY_r59nEM8rxbKioQbUmanFcGXK2ml1eKc/s320/CAM00137.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRRhljCP5cEp98UGPilxWlVOmcnSHjFukKM85NMgc_DPE9mgbCYjsYYdCUwWYL6o8947YW8MqyzUmXbvqpOaxc8nyYYxpaB2Y8wESExqAKo4iDyvIWlqlTD68zZThq8akD3QIP4tuvu0S1/s1600/CAM00141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRRhljCP5cEp98UGPilxWlVOmcnSHjFukKM85NMgc_DPE9mgbCYjsYYdCUwWYL6o8947YW8MqyzUmXbvqpOaxc8nyYYxpaB2Y8wESExqAKo4iDyvIWlqlTD68zZThq8akD3QIP4tuvu0S1/s320/CAM00141.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQflE5fkD9_ge6UmEqHsJ5_Gy_kUVXWKnHdUZS8DJ4WXakcfwhqUKJVNpiUp-vc64vGy72AlcjzTJIp9cEpfLZ1-nZ704qGwVW0S7NWtj-jSGdsMKUh0pqon1AoUQ9GcMu62DkdUXJHh8P/s1600/CAM00142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQflE5fkD9_ge6UmEqHsJ5_Gy_kUVXWKnHdUZS8DJ4WXakcfwhqUKJVNpiUp-vc64vGy72AlcjzTJIp9cEpfLZ1-nZ704qGwVW0S7NWtj-jSGdsMKUh0pqon1AoUQ9GcMu62DkdUXJHh8P/s320/CAM00142.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67mQ5HF4PKxgHZilbYalqTYA6AlCNmQS4vn2M-BgoyOhHUGELrXOMRbixmu-W2xhliuWqupSMboWD4ABQF7g_nApvmarEmapN9tmEzcCCtWYHTY_8rN57lSs-81tjHGOHPIT6b5lRdRkZ/s1600/CAM00135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67mQ5HF4PKxgHZilbYalqTYA6AlCNmQS4vn2M-BgoyOhHUGELrXOMRbixmu-W2xhliuWqupSMboWD4ABQF7g_nApvmarEmapN9tmEzcCCtWYHTY_8rN57lSs-81tjHGOHPIT6b5lRdRkZ/s320/CAM00135.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEO7BGtQMpVWONFsooiCBzYvJwY-E_hGyWSaTzwZ9H1hEVDFLT6tQh_giCmGf3uIAx35Shn-D_3TUrtc_unbNq9X8glXWkc1RpIQuGIjK25lp0vB8LQw-yE4EvVJ5tDwONxrxmp1XHq98/s1600/CAM00134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEO7BGtQMpVWONFsooiCBzYvJwY-E_hGyWSaTzwZ9H1hEVDFLT6tQh_giCmGf3uIAx35Shn-D_3TUrtc_unbNq9X8glXWkc1RpIQuGIjK25lp0vB8LQw-yE4EvVJ5tDwONxrxmp1XHq98/s320/CAM00134.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpndStKUJnzClVHFIom-C7seo-cnnPye1zLhu3CheVFa1KCRYamII14KiW8HAy60i0czdVHF-9tlnv_MoAxiPQpPi1iMKH9t0Tg5MXCZ9lNmgAzdP3f1n_Cl-OgFZovZAwHRe5AgSO4yoT/s1600/CAM00133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpndStKUJnzClVHFIom-C7seo-cnnPye1zLhu3CheVFa1KCRYamII14KiW8HAy60i0czdVHF-9tlnv_MoAxiPQpPi1iMKH9t0Tg5MXCZ9lNmgAzdP3f1n_Cl-OgFZovZAwHRe5AgSO4yoT/s320/CAM00133.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1omZtdETzzFhg3SbZ2PlTdFQY180UrwQaq4yNUma4Amxt0sKH6XPHvXLdpPUe7oOZj7UdrqCD8ueT9xT17XCd5hNA3u1AxxszpOaokNAgud1vJ6-CDk6Q3RE0vRq08QG3hYoeMXtoX83p/s1600/CAM00132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1omZtdETzzFhg3SbZ2PlTdFQY180UrwQaq4yNUma4Amxt0sKH6XPHvXLdpPUe7oOZj7UdrqCD8ueT9xT17XCd5hNA3u1AxxszpOaokNAgud1vJ6-CDk6Q3RE0vRq08QG3hYoeMXtoX83p/s320/CAM00132.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9vMP6suA7cTqu4ghCIwdLUS7QxPSeWK8TgvGXapatytpgGI3QYSltrEt0cFbMYgU1XuMou1nUQKhE_zPPWX5Hn2MJx4wacz8q4dXxxz6Gxtk7wTYRuOnEmExdQ8xotlTOaq54NN6PjFR/s1600/CAM00130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9vMP6suA7cTqu4ghCIwdLUS7QxPSeWK8TgvGXapatytpgGI3QYSltrEt0cFbMYgU1XuMou1nUQKhE_zPPWX5Hn2MJx4wacz8q4dXxxz6Gxtk7wTYRuOnEmExdQ8xotlTOaq54NN6PjFR/s320/CAM00130.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUev2Evrat0jaY9h_ZLd4gUTZL1VX0G6uiLEXgqz_DlgvYX6lcQpXBfpdhrLFfFvUF5f064T_9HyQnXKW2kC4PAulPeY-J896DvB93MjEaP_D-ZQVXMxRDtq11cb7ZfPxW5PaiIPzpOCJr/s1600/CAM00111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUev2Evrat0jaY9h_ZLd4gUTZL1VX0G6uiLEXgqz_DlgvYX6lcQpXBfpdhrLFfFvUF5f064T_9HyQnXKW2kC4PAulPeY-J896DvB93MjEaP_D-ZQVXMxRDtq11cb7ZfPxW5PaiIPzpOCJr/s320/CAM00111.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi30kbGZrDdt42FZnD1gdYE_0FNVwXi8LfvaYeikAUWZlZ0AqfsYOyXvMu9mojhWtwYf4AmwgvE6o7QogdoRmL7r84D2OY3L-u-MZZP8sF7bes5N1ut48nAq8Ny5TF3vMpEWP5x9AjDM0W3/s1600/CAM00109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi30kbGZrDdt42FZnD1gdYE_0FNVwXi8LfvaYeikAUWZlZ0AqfsYOyXvMu9mojhWtwYf4AmwgvE6o7QogdoRmL7r84D2OY3L-u-MZZP8sF7bes5N1ut48nAq8Ny5TF3vMpEWP5x9AjDM0W3/s320/CAM00109.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6tEFNwSdu0SiyQBJMNAMlMti5B3KNjhcROgWzwvQmDEzLWuw74cXAxql4pGJDeexxgK1InVHyE5zqMQvcqPUTWRRjuZY_oARl1X5lrAri7z6BmAHc4tDqiCX5M3OKvxTZoj3fWbLNRwS/s1600/CAM00105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6tEFNwSdu0SiyQBJMNAMlMti5B3KNjhcROgWzwvQmDEzLWuw74cXAxql4pGJDeexxgK1InVHyE5zqMQvcqPUTWRRjuZY_oARl1X5lrAri7z6BmAHc4tDqiCX5M3OKvxTZoj3fWbLNRwS/s320/CAM00105.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdUDfqLMYgXkG35appFlV0Kh-XmZHJpGrfyq9YGXq8bQm3qA0gbIwqeKv6X-dLl6VIJ8PCFdkQMWk8OjEizTW9G9IhCwx5LrtcOcyhJV4dUj1lP9jS5cZ9gDE-R9-6jW7WrHRdIpzBD4q/s1600/CAM00051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdUDfqLMYgXkG35appFlV0Kh-XmZHJpGrfyq9YGXq8bQm3qA0gbIwqeKv6X-dLl6VIJ8PCFdkQMWk8OjEizTW9G9IhCwx5LrtcOcyhJV4dUj1lP9jS5cZ9gDE-R9-6jW7WrHRdIpzBD4q/s320/CAM00051.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-LSKyFyTnRzMwaVekvYXytHDITEEdabZ_eeZpfe1sSHPvJs3PF6pB-QmI8wUOX8r6NhwDte5A_4VuVPBR-Qfh9D6zgbZFVVPwudT3nchpMJhAE6snzYN9QJICrx1DGQRH7FcYktNSq8_/s1600/CAM00057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-LSKyFyTnRzMwaVekvYXytHDITEEdabZ_eeZpfe1sSHPvJs3PF6pB-QmI8wUOX8r6NhwDte5A_4VuVPBR-Qfh9D6zgbZFVVPwudT3nchpMJhAE6snzYN9QJICrx1DGQRH7FcYktNSq8_/s320/CAM00057.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulL5-TKJyJWLfgwmfbuU8YdrXOAE5oF1-5Bjs2aSeK5Bx6qAu-gDR-N7PCYTsytK1ZT06vp97cWQTJxpDKy2kXxT_3jQI2aZKEJLps7oqtS5noiQO1IKBxFqjqUKAplhmBuaEcJwtfhVb/s1600/CAM00095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulL5-TKJyJWLfgwmfbuU8YdrXOAE5oF1-5Bjs2aSeK5Bx6qAu-gDR-N7PCYTsytK1ZT06vp97cWQTJxpDKy2kXxT_3jQI2aZKEJLps7oqtS5noiQO1IKBxFqjqUKAplhmBuaEcJwtfhVb/s320/CAM00095.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We came back to the hotel for a dip in
the pool to cool down, and then got ready for bowling night. A group
of us rented a private room at the bowling ally and had a great time.
I used to be a good bowler, but not anymore haha. We still had a
blast, although my body felt it later. I guess they weren't lying
when they said you ligaments and muscles stretch during pregnancy.
Even though I took it easy and used a very light ball, my legs are
still feeling the affects. The bowling ally is just like home, except
better food! Overall it was a fun night! </div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-47139285050236913762012-08-24T02:06:00.000-07:002012-08-24T05:15:13.148-07:00The biggest and the tallest...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
On Monday, the 20<sup>th</sup>, we went
to Dubai for our first time. I am sure there will be many more trips
within the next few years! The tour group we traveled through offered
a deal, 50 dirhams for round trip on the bus. That was 100 for both
Shawn and I, or $27... and the bus was a nice charter bus with air.
Nothing like the bus we took to Al Ain. Yay!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The ride there was about an hour and a
half. I spent most of the time talking to my new friend Susanne while
Shawn played with her son, Amile. He is such a big kid at heart!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we got there we were dropped off
at the Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world, which just so
happens to be next to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the
world. It was stunning to see and as I craned my next to see the top,
I was in awe. Especially when you look at all the other “tall”
buildings around it. They look like miniature models! Here are a few
pics, but they don't do it justice. They also cannot show the beauty
surrounding the tower. The water and shops were amazing.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKi5XQLzFx2DTQB1SBQr9JLRhbOdQwxfrxFxSe5y99x5q_RkuLgyYel6oiMTmUFl-_27XzBO2w-QG38cY-zCdmHrxW-u4DRmEOw0N3xqQWCvOlcVFYRrKTkddZUbY3_S1xdoAU0b0C4vgU/s1600/102_0547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKi5XQLzFx2DTQB1SBQr9JLRhbOdQwxfrxFxSe5y99x5q_RkuLgyYel6oiMTmUFl-_27XzBO2w-QG38cY-zCdmHrxW-u4DRmEOw0N3xqQWCvOlcVFYRrKTkddZUbY3_S1xdoAU0b0C4vgU/s320/102_0547.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU905dc8bsx28rlH5rKfdTDlZgIiKobVjl8kyC3F2lQb6kSKiuPkhcqoI-PKQOAoJbervvi69-_Qz5NxTvOOtmQy3yfvM5eyrjfe7yxTa7KrngbM5aAqxSIx2Mp-oFHqoHw9U4K6NK2mo8/s1600/102_0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU905dc8bsx28rlH5rKfdTDlZgIiKobVjl8kyC3F2lQb6kSKiuPkhcqoI-PKQOAoJbervvi69-_Qz5NxTvOOtmQy3yfvM5eyrjfe7yxTa7KrngbM5aAqxSIx2Mp-oFHqoHw9U4K6NK2mo8/s320/102_0549.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_85gBiv2VzH5A5Tgdp5ve6g22i3FFNn9DDxm7EZSvVIkpOU-g0FbM76Hg-FLIE4pwu8uowWicQnCsOR8AKF27y3ckNMNxFPw85hBmbVDRsVNa207AdiBNaDbJIsQMVWFAnhP46axUIYDO/s1600/102_0552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_85gBiv2VzH5A5Tgdp5ve6g22i3FFNn9DDxm7EZSvVIkpOU-g0FbM76Hg-FLIE4pwu8uowWicQnCsOR8AKF27y3ckNMNxFPw85hBmbVDRsVNa207AdiBNaDbJIsQMVWFAnhP46axUIYDO/s320/102_0552.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk9ujj3gBcTY_RIyqWG-qBkzUbmu2_Vaklecn6Cq43MapLqSM1e21PiFoSJGcJRYVkcY0izvYK8mhIpEvZfFTFb7pfsPKf1bSCh32khyphenhyphenPTOaYMfKF1puacY4BJ_irYKQp-HgFHc1wKC8QL/s1600/102_0552-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk9ujj3gBcTY_RIyqWG-qBkzUbmu2_Vaklecn6Cq43MapLqSM1e21PiFoSJGcJRYVkcY0izvYK8mhIpEvZfFTFb7pfsPKf1bSCh32khyphenhyphenPTOaYMfKF1puacY4BJ_irYKQp-HgFHc1wKC8QL/s320/102_0552-002.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYh3BZqTX4HEARifKVdyDjqVkmjk2g8g_idHIZlv1s7denOWIObHtrVxo1W9GKfZA6Urx_4cOg0q3Nn_rjw1OI7ygw8zMhdIvF6T1n8MnZL5Cf2y6gs3OzCJtwTDHIhbed3f4X8beq79np/s1600/12+-+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYh3BZqTX4HEARifKVdyDjqVkmjk2g8g_idHIZlv1s7denOWIObHtrVxo1W9GKfZA6Urx_4cOg0q3Nn_rjw1OI7ygw8zMhdIvF6T1n8MnZL5Cf2y6gs3OzCJtwTDHIhbed3f4X8beq79np/s320/12+-+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccad5R9JNUYUCP-C-TXZUxTdamYbfLmvFacSCcER9bxJLGwZvil9XryvsbzRuLJqHksjv9-m2bXHlR7KXHy8LdQEAk1sffa-HPC5AWVlBL_lSBeCFcHs1kB2ds1PlpvFucLaeEMc6YNS9/s1600/12+-+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccad5R9JNUYUCP-C-TXZUxTdamYbfLmvFacSCcER9bxJLGwZvil9XryvsbzRuLJqHksjv9-m2bXHlR7KXHy8LdQEAk1sffa-HPC5AWVlBL_lSBeCFcHs1kB2ds1PlpvFucLaeEMc6YNS9/s320/12+-+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We wanted to take the elevator ride to
the top, but apparently you have to book way in advance as they were
sold out for days. That was unless we wanted to pay around $200 for
the express lane. No thank you, we will come back another time!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A group of us, who like to do things
together, decided to go in the mall and eat first. This group is
Shawn and I (of course), a friend named Shon (pronounced the same as
Shawn. His wife is still back at home but coming later. I look
forward to meeting her), and the Safar family: Susanne, Fatti, and
Amile. We broke into groups, Shon and Fatti wanted sandwiches, and
Susanne, Amile, Shawn, and I went to this awesome sushi place. You
sit at your seat and the sushi comes by on a conveyer belt. The
plates are different colors, each representing a different cost. You
just grab what you want and eat, and at the end they tally up your
plates. It was very yummy!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNEvlA-3mDqXoJ6Z3wnqIAkD9ptjW-gEZ6UtuW4cH2xFn9D6KJTCk95QpFW1eA0TXEWZCqmW_4MplggJ3h802acXLNEzwc99HhbeK7pkBZpDf3qDcHAZXYmW7WoMjilDIf1P4iNFOsccn/s1600/102_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNEvlA-3mDqXoJ6Z3wnqIAkD9ptjW-gEZ6UtuW4cH2xFn9D6KJTCk95QpFW1eA0TXEWZCqmW_4MplggJ3h802acXLNEzwc99HhbeK7pkBZpDf3qDcHAZXYmW7WoMjilDIf1P4iNFOsccn/s320/102_0556.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After lunch we decided to venture out
and find the souks. A man from ADEC had suggested some for a real
authentic experience. A souk is a traditional marketplace, usually
open-aired. We found some taxis and after they figured out where we
wanted to go (at first they were clueless) we arrived at the silk
souk.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The souk was definitely as promised...
a real authentic experience. There were venders lined up in an ally
of old buildings, and as you walked by they would jump out to make
their sales. Usually they would be holding scarves, and they kept
trying to make us feel them and wrap them around our heads for a
picture. Shon finally got caught by one, in which we were then lured
into the shop. Although they had beautiful pillows, scarves, etc...
we finally had to wiggle our way out by telling the man we would come
back, which we didn't :o.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt6cV4QC9NklJggDAyIJevPrZB9V1dn4nXlVjaG0lp_EebUD_dh2kSB6reJz_7XXryMlVovzmrOFHjDNt2Zict6oDptFXTsS0sv2d1qD5PL2WI3MaCHq5juZ5465dK8eHuoKAHCb44S4W/s1600/102_0558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt6cV4QC9NklJggDAyIJevPrZB9V1dn4nXlVjaG0lp_EebUD_dh2kSB6reJz_7XXryMlVovzmrOFHjDNt2Zict6oDptFXTsS0sv2d1qD5PL2WI3MaCHq5juZ5465dK8eHuoKAHCb44S4W/s320/102_0558.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjscbap0GaZ9ZorKinIFO8zcUbsPlSDWXrZCwoFwP4xZcWxWWxXHDB9L-hxeVKt4EoQdZGMwJSu3zYk3ZEulwK0ZRKvpXr5op_pkljHz5ovzlCEJQZBuaZExc1XO2Im-dmUocQ-AUrfyf5s/s1600/102_0559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjscbap0GaZ9ZorKinIFO8zcUbsPlSDWXrZCwoFwP4xZcWxWWxXHDB9L-hxeVKt4EoQdZGMwJSu3zYk3ZEulwK0ZRKvpXr5op_pkljHz5ovzlCEJQZBuaZExc1XO2Im-dmUocQ-AUrfyf5s/s320/102_0559.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Man making fresh OJ</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8lAHnQFSl7Hev0qzhv7AE0a8A-jLLQ9zUUqVJeiYvvGvFsk2C5Xhl-o6hfLk91KDx-hqiCmkYHvHGTfUOcJBIzQNXSar_GPO_8lFImNf-0yRICyFew_cjRttYzLQjz-9bC9U50KbPpNf/s1600/102_0564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8lAHnQFSl7Hev0qzhv7AE0a8A-jLLQ9zUUqVJeiYvvGvFsk2C5Xhl-o6hfLk91KDx-hqiCmkYHvHGTfUOcJBIzQNXSar_GPO_8lFImNf-0yRICyFew_cjRttYzLQjz-9bC9U50KbPpNf/s320/102_0564.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixg-pMVZMokra7_dFrIRjq98QeWN3l8nUd8TNH9GGF_wNs0RuuDbQW2FxIdEcyV7NpdQho8zA0wjj5LdejOtuKkRDcOCjH35lI4avHRYWbFLjJR5k5rznEp1kKmPV5fncbISKdpLGSzrC/s1600/102_0568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixg-pMVZMokra7_dFrIRjq98QeWN3l8nUd8TNH9GGF_wNs0RuuDbQW2FxIdEcyV7NpdQho8zA0wjj5LdejOtuKkRDcOCjH35lI4avHRYWbFLjJR5k5rznEp1kKmPV5fncbISKdpLGSzrC/s320/102_0568.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We found our way down to the water,
where we were told we could take a boat, called the Abra, across to
the gold souk for 1 dirham. We found some boats, but the men kept
wanting to charge us 20 dirhams for an hour tour. Luckily Fatti
speaks some Arabic and was able to find where we were supposed to go.
We found the right dock and soon boarded.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Abra's are wooden boats, where
everyone sits in a circle around the middle. There are no railings or
any safely procedures, and the man collects your money as he starts
the boat across the water. The breeze felt good as we crossed, but
the smoke from the motor did not smell so great! Here are a few pics.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgaQGQCIF9a2whyIjMRSlxWmghQ58A_b9RGZg1AQ1RIKzOHdkbrvywnyoyq0APCGufoqFrJ012GNsrvLMOqwX7XidU0oyi939Tp9bzZ7b_ceWQpVJkOLvOR2W621OT94DkYMkOL8JbeU5/s1600/102_0570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgaQGQCIF9a2whyIjMRSlxWmghQ58A_b9RGZg1AQ1RIKzOHdkbrvywnyoyq0APCGufoqFrJ012GNsrvLMOqwX7XidU0oyi939Tp9bzZ7b_ceWQpVJkOLvOR2W621OT94DkYMkOL8JbeU5/s320/102_0570.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFTDCpiOyJRW9TakDTHYeq-Ekn0YmGyp6qGhi3d7Wxuwx4WZfsijQ4umC0v9A3nrI__GSUBrQdfA9KVNTSHNvl6WDAVLjui9rWcJusO2IZZuyhSFuX61H9l5yeeWq-VzhiJV2QPiWOtloY/s1600/102_0572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFTDCpiOyJRW9TakDTHYeq-Ekn0YmGyp6qGhi3d7Wxuwx4WZfsijQ4umC0v9A3nrI__GSUBrQdfA9KVNTSHNvl6WDAVLjui9rWcJusO2IZZuyhSFuX61H9l5yeeWq-VzhiJV2QPiWOtloY/s320/102_0572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghzV4wjZlg8FMvAgCw8KmerMcnb3BeluI3JnxijyDRyPzj6jngK3q_bxDI8o7XMMeUgq6HVyXCS2kg5kMJZuI5LHJtevYdW9jfsoeQlFz2WyfPiHQwxhs5NwQve0SM3r2cmE7aiTQ2NkuK/s1600/102_0573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghzV4wjZlg8FMvAgCw8KmerMcnb3BeluI3JnxijyDRyPzj6jngK3q_bxDI8o7XMMeUgq6HVyXCS2kg5kMJZuI5LHJtevYdW9jfsoeQlFz2WyfPiHQwxhs5NwQve0SM3r2cmE7aiTQ2NkuK/s320/102_0573.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYC8jVk5w3xYqVOdBxqKDYaryug8dxDp82TK2SInskuaVIU_8NWw7mbZSJEJ4W1WxXuJUcUfg4kJ-6So-t5DNxsAT-oEWyIzfxkW18aJvsVIhWSayeud_otStIOl_AgkVJd_jhfEwzbNA/s1600/102_0575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYC8jVk5w3xYqVOdBxqKDYaryug8dxDp82TK2SInskuaVIU_8NWw7mbZSJEJ4W1WxXuJUcUfg4kJ-6So-t5DNxsAT-oEWyIzfxkW18aJvsVIhWSayeud_otStIOl_AgkVJd_jhfEwzbNA/s320/102_0575.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCn4CCuT_KKBL1281_ctDPVVeUAMH-CHo4x5XEPPBg74y6rLi44BJZUU6nrRN7rwJknuIeUaZYpa0vYz1MfzD1lSrU1v6_uH-FysXjTsZiKTcRvI2JLZf2gJxmVd8okIfxgmOFlx49vl2/s1600/202681_10152049184710352_1423394141_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCn4CCuT_KKBL1281_ctDPVVeUAMH-CHo4x5XEPPBg74y6rLi44BJZUU6nrRN7rwJknuIeUaZYpa0vYz1MfzD1lSrU1v6_uH-FysXjTsZiKTcRvI2JLZf2gJxmVd8okIfxgmOFlx49vl2/s320/202681_10152049184710352_1423394141_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Once we got to the gold souk is when I
really started to melt. We had been out in the 100+ heat with
humidity for awhile now and my preggo body was having a hard time
with it. The gold souk was pretty much what you would expect, lots of
jewelry, although they were much more modern buildings. We walked
around a bit, popping into a shoe shop to enjoy the AC, and then
decided it was time to head back to the air conditioned mall. As we
walked back through, men would pop out of stores and try to have us
follow them by saying “watches, prada, gucci...” It was a fun
experience. We caught the Abra back and bought some snow cones before
catching a taxi back to the mall.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After cleaning up and almost taking a
shower in the bathroom because I was so covered in sweat, we decided
to split up to explore the mall. We walked by the huge aquarium they
have inside, but didn't pay to go in. We also walked by the giant ice
skating rink, but this mall is not the one that has the ski resort
inside. Again, another trip. We also passed by the Sega amusement
pack in the mall and the two enormous food courts! Yes, it is the
largest mall.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSjHb4d67hzIWWHF6rkzaNOnsXYl6qd2VtapUVxtuU6bejDBrWa6m3bd192RRxfgyot0GP3I16u0RmzJaZWh5q9o_r7AJMLfP3BtLlb3mQGdluMBoJVQXaLW7XF6udy_FjtHJyKnmNfY7/s1600/102_0546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSjHb4d67hzIWWHF6rkzaNOnsXYl6qd2VtapUVxtuU6bejDBrWa6m3bd192RRxfgyot0GP3I16u0RmzJaZWh5q9o_r7AJMLfP3BtLlb3mQGdluMBoJVQXaLW7XF6udy_FjtHJyKnmNfY7/s320/102_0546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeh7CVeSt1Nl_Nib303HS4ZWZOi13xW4y7K9HGk9j28B3qtZ4coCsJkNC7X64WAOi9eRwqGLgwMMO4UkXVxWkdHejYGt9N4kaWvecDaibPFGLOlg-glWGnW1xylFd4emQnTxXCAqVA4Hnc/s1600/102_0579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeh7CVeSt1Nl_Nib303HS4ZWZOi13xW4y7K9HGk9j28B3qtZ4coCsJkNC7X64WAOi9eRwqGLgwMMO4UkXVxWkdHejYGt9N4kaWvecDaibPFGLOlg-glWGnW1xylFd4emQnTxXCAqVA4Hnc/s320/102_0579.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZvJ-aWMVEGpuFmGXsPtFo05S_YxGfghxPDFSrLY2eJ3jT8W1qw0367TJ30pBBMoeB5SLVGwLinrDFKhoiL1M19muJ35TGA0kEVuLh7pcK9QiNqDJ7SNcl1Mf3TngJE0wvVFqNpm5qwZ9/s1600/102_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZvJ-aWMVEGpuFmGXsPtFo05S_YxGfghxPDFSrLY2eJ3jT8W1qw0367TJ30pBBMoeB5SLVGwLinrDFKhoiL1M19muJ35TGA0kEVuLh7pcK9QiNqDJ7SNcl1Mf3TngJE0wvVFqNpm5qwZ9/s320/102_0581.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginRLnNsyaXf6KlcwkJbFOLovpswoiucvshlOmstkhql3U6rKJJAlSgSVQhkrfV-zA8byqF-FaQZYHONQtcXsrEMqtBDK6DqAH7mNultQY5sWH2CREWaEK6Jl_Zw_rLNmXI9xgwVY9MnLf/s1600/12+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginRLnNsyaXf6KlcwkJbFOLovpswoiucvshlOmstkhql3U6rKJJAlSgSVQhkrfV-zA8byqF-FaQZYHONQtcXsrEMqtBDK6DqAH7mNultQY5sWH2CREWaEK6Jl_Zw_rLNmXI9xgwVY9MnLf/s320/12+-+12.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7lpz4j2OdBgR5qfJpYWBqKbdGwet54o4jU7yyr8JNQGQzdHVF2yuNl6B6GaXdZPRZ_HYgKdV8Du8x5OiISgCBpA734b0Ue-MCTs2Ytt8yDkIz79jsRvQEFPO9wcY1DkpSK6YppFc5tmL/s1600/12+-+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7lpz4j2OdBgR5qfJpYWBqKbdGwet54o4jU7yyr8JNQGQzdHVF2yuNl6B6GaXdZPRZ_HYgKdV8Du8x5OiISgCBpA734b0Ue-MCTs2Ytt8yDkIz79jsRvQEFPO9wcY1DkpSK6YppFc5tmL/s320/12+-+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We popped into various stores,
including the Gucci Baby store for fun, where a pair of tiny baby
shoes costs $250. We also tried to find a way into the lobby of the
Burj Khalifa, but had no luck. We grabbed some ice cream and rested
our feet before finding our way back to the bus a little early to
make sure we were not left behind. Then we were on our way home.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I listened to music and tried not to
sleep on the ride home, as well as overhead some people with a little
bit of a bad attitude. Not sure is all the teachers are going to
survive here... but I know I love it!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we got back, we made ourselves
sandwiches in our room, turned on the TV, and hit the bed for the
night. We had a fantastic day, but we sure were pooped!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Can't wait to go back to Dubai
though!!!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwBs7yo_6i2tS13EvBAHBN0jqbq77q-WTf_gX0rHOaa6XA2UswesYrCksUND5pXPD5bykpG3B1PiDoT2NyZLg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-76519174640660913022012-08-21T03:15:00.000-07:002012-08-21T03:21:54.028-07:00Luxury <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello... me again. Going to catch you up on some Emirate fun!<br />
<br />
Friday: Friday here is Holy Day and the first day of the weekend... so that meant rest day for us. We relaxed in the room and eventually made our way to the mall. Eid was coming up so there were all kinds of sales going on... sort of like our American Black Friday. We went ahead and bought a TV because it was on sale and also a clothing rack to dry clothes at the hotel.<br />
<br />
Another EMT (English Medium Teacher... it's what we are called here) hosted a game night in her hotel room. We had a blast. We taught some people how to play Farkle and laughed the whole time. I then played Phase 10 with some others... there were three different games going on in the room. I met the famous Alona as well! (She makes all the Real Teachers of Abu Dubai videos on YouTube). The last game we played was a lyrics game with two teams. We were singing and yelling and dancing. My team won...oh yeah!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2c0T2a-STMxWMo0wo6fI9CoKLNVAz9ByvlL4a9Ol2ckt4EGZd_PMBeO9IuTAbEZ3CnxT0rtSjJPKhzOUinLjv6gNtrzHVQKerVO17QDjUARa_KBQ9QUj_NwyGJhZUWgFjuPxqlMqg6Ht/s1600/484480_372125172860669_1648380499_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2c0T2a-STMxWMo0wo6fI9CoKLNVAz9ByvlL4a9Ol2ckt4EGZd_PMBeO9IuTAbEZ3CnxT0rtSjJPKhzOUinLjv6gNtrzHVQKerVO17QDjUARa_KBQ9QUj_NwyGJhZUWgFjuPxqlMqg6Ht/s320/484480_372125172860669_1648380499_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6GBz70csL0Ef0hJCgYZiqqVbHL-mU9N9JLFQd7TFlpYEVxZmv6IbEbqjbMtNKc1T5DxX7NgGy2svkIC2-nfedwX_DTSgzf5wz7a3RXfgnclvgBxeu6T0wV4XZbtOwatxAIRmJPd8vj8V/s1600/539203_372125262860660_627011188_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6GBz70csL0Ef0hJCgYZiqqVbHL-mU9N9JLFQd7TFlpYEVxZmv6IbEbqjbMtNKc1T5DxX7NgGy2svkIC2-nfedwX_DTSgzf5wz7a3RXfgnclvgBxeu6T0wV4XZbtOwatxAIRmJPd8vj8V/s320/539203_372125262860660_627011188_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Saturday: I was exhausted Sat. morning so I slept in while Shawn went out and about. When he returned he had rented a car. Just a small Mazda 2, but it is nice to be able to get around the city and explore. We rented it for one month, and then plan on buying.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkUDz2vnOafsTsYI-PZg7SKKymAAmFO8bAC_XGhm2QfLjChJFcZftQVu_zeUePhw2OT43c0iM-OcIsawYS0lLhZ7OKv8BnSFdwSMrF4N3Qjr-ol17cFwaxZ5sS_3vTk6EMe4lI8PvJbX5/s1600/102_0518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkUDz2vnOafsTsYI-PZg7SKKymAAmFO8bAC_XGhm2QfLjChJFcZftQVu_zeUePhw2OT43c0iM-OcIsawYS0lLhZ7OKv8BnSFdwSMrF4N3Qjr-ol17cFwaxZ5sS_3vTk6EMe4lI8PvJbX5/s320/102_0518.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In the afternoon we headed to tour the Emirates Palace Hotel, an enormous luxury hotel. It is huge and beautiful!!! It is actually the hotel used as a model for the one in Sex and the City 2. We had a great time, especially since our friend Susanne wasn't afraid to open doors and explore. Here are a few pics:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQTn72O8GJOEEgpBqjZghhy_OeEmWrhirqSjdkfTR76C2BjvBw9S43q3B4OkSuRnuo9wdJJ3724RDW0bKh1o98OU1bavYWV2UY4errpjVdaiHKVcVhWIlyyh1HzRMSg8WLCIFPWVa3OIU/s1600/102_0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQTn72O8GJOEEgpBqjZghhy_OeEmWrhirqSjdkfTR76C2BjvBw9S43q3B4OkSuRnuo9wdJJ3724RDW0bKh1o98OU1bavYWV2UY4errpjVdaiHKVcVhWIlyyh1HzRMSg8WLCIFPWVa3OIU/s320/102_0460.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHgLrHzvb5AUHltjyeD_uK7lm2g1NYPDHnH-JsoTcJO9lvOHzm0kUJ6PMEQQh64miYUYvaGFgqo-F92gurIfj5gbCmlymP_7-DfNdLa7lYuk-ZlquZ2FprSLVtbwwM2KLiG7UUaici9Zk/s1600/102_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHgLrHzvb5AUHltjyeD_uK7lm2g1NYPDHnH-JsoTcJO9lvOHzm0kUJ6PMEQQh64miYUYvaGFgqo-F92gurIfj5gbCmlymP_7-DfNdLa7lYuk-ZlquZ2FprSLVtbwwM2KLiG7UUaici9Zk/s320/102_0463.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcg5aFpHBE_5Kvamy1zNNucdMejdA3UNCX7uriQqQs5Nra_lXV6d3D-kbxmlX1P-6wVQyfjjqFUQoUAssqe77Rq107omuRnh2tDEYDWYz74KeSC1hUDHHrWYymmO2WhKPNG7t57bQqQAx2/s1600/102_0464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcg5aFpHBE_5Kvamy1zNNucdMejdA3UNCX7uriQqQs5Nra_lXV6d3D-kbxmlX1P-6wVQyfjjqFUQoUAssqe77Rq107omuRnh2tDEYDWYz74KeSC1hUDHHrWYymmO2WhKPNG7t57bQqQAx2/s320/102_0464.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7u4rPH_h3H9bJI0LjaPG8oJ11zAzYCBJAF1O7DJDYfSEYQ0mx30c5kGVxPAtIXiMo6BcQ-Ei2QwiHE4OYRlsFztVfiVn1x_fMNN-qvLpopT7o1Fz3-EypyNNnQnJu20LTJHGL2x83d5RM/s1600/102_0466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7u4rPH_h3H9bJI0LjaPG8oJ11zAzYCBJAF1O7DJDYfSEYQ0mx30c5kGVxPAtIXiMo6BcQ-Ei2QwiHE4OYRlsFztVfiVn1x_fMNN-qvLpopT7o1Fz3-EypyNNnQnJu20LTJHGL2x83d5RM/s320/102_0466.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes: a gold ATM that really disperses gold!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLu0CnAI76wbRpNotokn_cqYdBwjVXruy2pFIHdRMCPn33tmcgUWQZtRhD_Anz0tFt8OS_MSjNctBWVPPOOV6CuWRNxYcK_71epM38AXacBudGySx3XaVmBwUaTnjfiFFGGUUXT23aTqd/s1600/102_0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLu0CnAI76wbRpNotokn_cqYdBwjVXruy2pFIHdRMCPn33tmcgUWQZtRhD_Anz0tFt8OS_MSjNctBWVPPOOV6CuWRNxYcK_71epM38AXacBudGySx3XaVmBwUaTnjfiFFGGUUXT23aTqd/s320/102_0472.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fixing the gold ceiling... flakes of gold were falling to the ground. Unfortunately we were not allowed down there </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWutDSJTOiil9jRaUcY9dljFzu23Mu86KHqZSIcMRwv63GnnOrSqPnUN3czKmUGKxHnRWS7WDmkDJPI-fz1oEddv7VmXiM_U6iBeA9-IqVppc9lO1EtcXOFv21QqssxV4QmsBGL8K6FVE/s1600/102_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWutDSJTOiil9jRaUcY9dljFzu23Mu86KHqZSIcMRwv63GnnOrSqPnUN3czKmUGKxHnRWS7WDmkDJPI-fz1oEddv7VmXiM_U6iBeA9-IqVppc9lO1EtcXOFv21QqssxV4QmsBGL8K6FVE/s320/102_0478.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9LsbpJ2ZDwx4zCl8uZ4gz6Y9yGzYYRFKB5w3dLNNWtv2uEb9dJ1JI0g-MSW5ZtgS5EHh2gxY-M-JXV_KIfBDY6pbY1eSqs9RgNIE41qU8e7GaYD2uF0roG4UBO3L3Gbj-zT1da10IiZ0/s1600/102_0491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9LsbpJ2ZDwx4zCl8uZ4gz6Y9yGzYYRFKB5w3dLNNWtv2uEb9dJ1JI0g-MSW5ZtgS5EHh2gxY-M-JXV_KIfBDY6pbY1eSqs9RgNIE41qU8e7GaYD2uF0roG4UBO3L3Gbj-zT1da10IiZ0/s320/102_0491.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sneaking around... Shawn was very sleepy</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBfCvZBiuxijXh5SsTUzSmQ6xa30j1M4uRdiaMPDW_K6BTU4D179DgRMIBpd2uDc7UcR3-uwkAq-C1XNEeMXZLpcmAda0gNTCGjsJnzSsggN8ezQtKPxKrAFoVtOlcGs2S2L0l7Vmlsyf/s1600/102_0492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBfCvZBiuxijXh5SsTUzSmQ6xa30j1M4uRdiaMPDW_K6BTU4D179DgRMIBpd2uDc7UcR3-uwkAq-C1XNEeMXZLpcmAda0gNTCGjsJnzSsggN8ezQtKPxKrAFoVtOlcGs2S2L0l7Vmlsyf/s320/102_0492.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cartwheels in the secret theatre lobby</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuz_mOD6u8y753hO6P9TyUIa1N6aHKy_mGGn5h-OKJnr4lhWinQ3VDDBF2AMgAlueIbZZfP2OGXPszKCmL_rSY_AwWq-dV6df9hZeA2aulbFT21vA6ebE8P4hyCy-z3cY2FjULcyGgRgF/s1600/102_0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuz_mOD6u8y753hO6P9TyUIa1N6aHKy_mGGn5h-OKJnr4lhWinQ3VDDBF2AMgAlueIbZZfP2OGXPszKCmL_rSY_AwWq-dV6df9hZeA2aulbFT21vA6ebE8P4hyCy-z3cY2FjULcyGgRgF/s320/102_0501.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDqQms_4n_78wZK4DnCCHhaizSCPB-e0-H6bzpKOfS-ieqHLtfqZaYI48xFKY4y6SHbe7qtBEBq55bALKk9Xm2MXPEkPhJoCW_Y7hiOPSSjHCVUObaEU-q_uuwCp9rt-mFJ27swlyPBZs/s1600/102_0514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDqQms_4n_78wZK4DnCCHhaizSCPB-e0-H6bzpKOfS-ieqHLtfqZaYI48xFKY4y6SHbe7qtBEBq55bALKk9Xm2MXPEkPhJoCW_Y7hiOPSSjHCVUObaEU-q_uuwCp9rt-mFJ27swlyPBZs/s320/102_0514.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9gs-ZWMibzous8OaKneWSqgK7ULASdcTnm7XbsHWtn4wSxjfs63cVNg0W96HhDY-YxvPPPjHfNVTM2VYGqJ2AnuQ0-AGLm8SS2XQIOyIi45B5ugkBE0b3DzGDZKwipSdJ5Mae_9uHgmWM/s1600/102_0515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9gs-ZWMibzous8OaKneWSqgK7ULASdcTnm7XbsHWtn4wSxjfs63cVNg0W96HhDY-YxvPPPjHfNVTM2VYGqJ2AnuQ0-AGLm8SS2XQIOyIi45B5ugkBE0b3DzGDZKwipSdJ5Mae_9uHgmWM/s320/102_0515.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After the tour we headed to the mall for dinner. I know it seems like we live at the mall, but right now it is the easiest and cheapest while trying to budget. Once we move and get paid, we will be able to explore more and try different foods. Right now it is all about budget. Speaking of which, we also bought some more groceries for the room. That helps a lot.<br />
<br />
Sunday: We finally hit the beach at the hotel and it is beautiful. It is under construction as they are expanding and building new pools. Wish it was ready now, but still loved it. There are chairs under straw "hut" umbrellas and soft sand (although very HOT!). The water was warm, and I loved it. No initial shock when you get in the water. We spent a while in the water, and then went to lay on the chairs to dry off. That didn't last long before I was too hot. So we headed back in to get ready to explore.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0IG7JAmbYI29d2w4bK7nIi65D98e6mkm7UM7aZj0Rf7wXHsSKIOz8-jwFaYHi0aDeHA6F2TIG6r7OZYzNR6iMLBcBh1oC6BUDLadqYS6NMOLNukyiQBr1FgcEhY6wliwhRKRVkzmpGea/s1600/102_0520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0IG7JAmbYI29d2w4bK7nIi65D98e6mkm7UM7aZj0Rf7wXHsSKIOz8-jwFaYHi0aDeHA6F2TIG6r7OZYzNR6iMLBcBh1oC6BUDLadqYS6NMOLNukyiQBr1FgcEhY6wliwhRKRVkzmpGea/s320/102_0520.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_Y3YTpZwn-7u8f-pcbdwQJE-tXkU6SwQCPAHhypNnKErTfPpP3hvInO083dEkBLHg5Njh4NV20Vt7JVW0a3lMfudgLzX1iXcIyryXgaO0FFICcUGe5ymLNL1-lbr8vpklMYI1Dep4wjY/s1600/102_0522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_Y3YTpZwn-7u8f-pcbdwQJE-tXkU6SwQCPAHhypNnKErTfPpP3hvInO083dEkBLHg5Njh4NV20Vt7JVW0a3lMfudgLzX1iXcIyryXgaO0FFICcUGe5ymLNL1-lbr8vpklMYI1Dep4wjY/s320/102_0522.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CIIlUeZT5BbN48qkKYNjfTd27Rxfyho831pCL_C5WQsow9yjKUIl0sOVjnCAniBJIaWdDHs5jKrqTr6QDWbXXFXhTsyl2UTqEpoLmVUdomGH1a-UZUxRNP7z-nu2hZxQbxyJjsdEqTuh/s1600/102_0523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CIIlUeZT5BbN48qkKYNjfTd27Rxfyho831pCL_C5WQsow9yjKUIl0sOVjnCAniBJIaWdDHs5jKrqTr6QDWbXXFXhTsyl2UTqEpoLmVUdomGH1a-UZUxRNP7z-nu2hZxQbxyJjsdEqTuh/s320/102_0523.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurrRznj9uLFExXI5jH_dgnw2w6suVGHLCS8xY6wk1rxMri64CJFhT16PpYszpezZq558f8cnWakHTkESKeyMkBQOvxn8IV6rAPEAj3MMT3vO7XLJhFX-dhfGRpR5BKxb34W_1OZDJh18K/s1600/102_0525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurrRznj9uLFExXI5jH_dgnw2w6suVGHLCS8xY6wk1rxMri64CJFhT16PpYszpezZq558f8cnWakHTkESKeyMkBQOvxn8IV6rAPEAj3MMT3vO7XLJhFX-dhfGRpR5BKxb34W_1OZDJh18K/s320/102_0525.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We decided to drive around and explore the city... and I couldn't believe the amount of people everywhere. I guess because the fasting is over and it is the holiday Eid, everyone was back out and about. There were more people out on the streets then NYC. We were going to go to a souk (a market), but it looked like there was no room to stand. We decided to go another day. We finally ended up at a mall where we knew a festival was going on for Eid. They had dancing, music, and free henna. I was so excited to finally get some henna done, and it is beautiful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlv655O4RObrZfTAV8X0XQURJoi9L5ZzmX2WCNcR4-JS537LnzT1HNJ3AlLVv6r5D2WY5R5Z0Mh75mPSZ5GLyoPI13RkgkSfY2tKHlcmfQio-c8yDrwZgW58gV0X9OZy0EOCwjzg7hAWfN/s1600/102_0526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlv655O4RObrZfTAV8X0XQURJoi9L5ZzmX2WCNcR4-JS537LnzT1HNJ3AlLVv6r5D2WY5R5Z0Mh75mPSZ5GLyoPI13RkgkSfY2tKHlcmfQio-c8yDrwZgW58gV0X9OZy0EOCwjzg7hAWfN/s320/102_0526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG-dkzTtnH3Fh8GhiUQ1QZehc8TjjSjsFpEdDivhOrobY12o3iRWhqQ8xnYEbqfdxlDG6mxoG2s7cvJXwCf0I2dWizmTQfQTAV22TgDflgZVNHlS-id_zhefyfqMrK7TKDrD60deRQS6T/s1600/102_0530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG-dkzTtnH3Fh8GhiUQ1QZehc8TjjSjsFpEdDivhOrobY12o3iRWhqQ8xnYEbqfdxlDG6mxoG2s7cvJXwCf0I2dWizmTQfQTAV22TgDflgZVNHlS-id_zhefyfqMrK7TKDrD60deRQS6T/s320/102_0530.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A falcon</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qjcT7VDPEPlR9LKrmwsAHDFWTVP8c_LYr5pNd3v9ZfNYEThdnSrh2U6uvI2Hm_s2OF2UpQThT5nr0hIzM1byQeMACcj-b0KW1wIJf1ui3H-W1ohyYgQ-cQ3iKWMvBQ0_udh8w2VA2Z11/s1600/102_0531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qjcT7VDPEPlR9LKrmwsAHDFWTVP8c_LYr5pNd3v9ZfNYEThdnSrh2U6uvI2Hm_s2OF2UpQThT5nr0hIzM1byQeMACcj-b0KW1wIJf1ui3H-W1ohyYgQ-cQ3iKWMvBQ0_udh8w2VA2Z11/s320/102_0531.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBltiZ9UqZN1GQpMLpsEuL5PNb8MA_NBRdp4kmeLEJveaUGTDhks4IGhZYqlJVY4Gx09nntP3fSSo9LxVf-VIZQURo2IyNQfvLdY6VDzT1nbwV5iQB3ArqTvCwMamdx2PK0I88i9sQdpG2/s1600/102_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBltiZ9UqZN1GQpMLpsEuL5PNb8MA_NBRdp4kmeLEJveaUGTDhks4IGhZYqlJVY4Gx09nntP3fSSo9LxVf-VIZQURo2IyNQfvLdY6VDzT1nbwV5iQB3ArqTvCwMamdx2PK0I88i9sQdpG2/s320/102_0534.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My henna drying before it peeled</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaL5TOn8jhhbRxu_5REH66Jq2XkxduMi_1xzACwCSScCfVDpCtNboDMNiUzsqbOUXcyujLROJYoe0-KdKOk1I7Dhbe08EPwpziN98Q4Rua9IO2AbzPtOw4WJhHuDAuafH9akM6-T9O8KGU/s1600/102_0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaL5TOn8jhhbRxu_5REH66Jq2XkxduMi_1xzACwCSScCfVDpCtNboDMNiUzsqbOUXcyujLROJYoe0-KdKOk1I7Dhbe08EPwpziN98Q4Rua9IO2AbzPtOw4WJhHuDAuafH9akM6-T9O8KGU/s320/102_0537.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shawn trying coffee</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTGLFWr7XEJBuL4O1IcAC6nTwWXTD6bQogwHl0wWaDE6w2Pnixmfdi3sEg-5XcdGNftijg0-EXEkewYyuSmD-mofrR3GOX-CIwBHyuUclc-zzi-HCF1N8jVdJAYSaI9blEhlgcQ_slbxv/s1600/102_0539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTGLFWr7XEJBuL4O1IcAC6nTwWXTD6bQogwHl0wWaDE6w2Pnixmfdi3sEg-5XcdGNftijg0-EXEkewYyuSmD-mofrR3GOX-CIwBHyuUclc-zzi-HCF1N8jVdJAYSaI9blEhlgcQ_slbxv/s320/102_0539.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm67eOINYMITyCzpYcTXUTIZGGOHn_ntHn4g1HaAviQGLsEoSMOOw8HUWQmynUdoUgNPz5nN2wDVWI3Bcplx2b3QXKajPcpDvpU2aI7k_2L-usjEDGBuCDUKo1FJNqhWJ90TPFH9flf5jQ/s1600/102_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm67eOINYMITyCzpYcTXUTIZGGOHn_ntHn4g1HaAviQGLsEoSMOOw8HUWQmynUdoUgNPz5nN2wDVWI3Bcplx2b3QXKajPcpDvpU2aI7k_2L-usjEDGBuCDUKo1FJNqhWJ90TPFH9flf5jQ/s320/102_0540.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh and Shawn saw a car to drool over!</div>
<br />
We then ate at a "gourmet" Mexican restaurant with our friend Shon. The interesting thing about here is that almost all the workers at the mall are Asian. It made it a little humorous to order Mexican food in the UAE from an Asian man. Very cultural here! We then decided to get to bed early... because on Monday we were heading to Dubai!!! </div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-3928892251390040682012-08-17T05:14:00.000-07:002012-08-18T04:20:25.815-07:00Shopping!!!! <br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Well I am finally pretty caught up. It
is Friday afternoon as I write this, so not too bad.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Thursday: There was nothing planned for
us, so we had a restful morning. It seems to me the longer I am here,
the less adjusted to the time change I am. I stay up late and sleep
half the day. Oh well... it is vacation. We got up for breakfast at
10 and then went back to bed until 1:30. We decided we would do some
shopping today and also go to the bank to get my debit card. Due to
Ramadan, the bank closed at 1:30 and didn't open again until 8:30pm,
so we had the day.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The first place I wanted to go was a
furniture store I had heard of. I called the number, and the guy was
so friendly. I asked when they closed and he said, “for teachers I
always open!” He then told us he would send a driver to pick us up
at 2:30. We got ready and headed down. They picked us up in a nice
SUV. The owner was driving and he spoke English very well. He told us
about different buildings as we passed them and he even knew where
Raleigh was. He had visited there because his brother-in-law went to
Duke.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04hLFpu_uXpyJItVNnHU_1jWXdbwLMRy89NM_STxX2Rjv-rSu_1MtVuVF3P_8riUpQbXYwlWKNpZ3wI8wNKAT_TTavU1EHgWr-42Z_WKlQA5kxjVsCdQ_rhkoga0v9AIzZO29e6w2exwL/s1600/CAM00004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04hLFpu_uXpyJItVNnHU_1jWXdbwLMRy89NM_STxX2Rjv-rSu_1MtVuVF3P_8riUpQbXYwlWKNpZ3wI8wNKAT_TTavU1EHgWr-42Z_WKlQA5kxjVsCdQ_rhkoga0v9AIzZO29e6w2exwL/s320/CAM00004.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we got to the store they offered
us cold water. They were Indian, so they did not follow Ramadan. We
picked our a mattress and a sofa, which because I'm a teacher they
gave us 50% the mattress and 35% off the sofa. It is amazing how the
teachers are treated so differently out here. The sofa's are nice as
well because you design how big you want it and pick the fabric. We
ordered our stuff, but didn't have to pay yet because we haven't
gotten our furniture allowance yet. They will even deliver to our
place. All together for a comfy mattress, a nice cover, and a three
seater sofa we paid about 3200 AED... about $850. Can't beat that!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
They drove us back to the hotel, where
we jumped in a taxi to the Marina Mall. Our next stop was Ikea. Ikea
runs a free bus from the mall every hour. It took us awhile to find
the bus, but we finally did. Ikea is on a place called Yas Island,
about 30 min. from the city. We got another nice tour of the city,
especially the beaches. I definitely want to check them out. Right
next to Ikea is Ferrari World... Shawn was excited to see that!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0-qktUK7omhdK93fbhyphenhyphen2-Vv2dVPrkc1lV_lHGbl9BmgY1Syw4KzoP7DwrfKPwa5lXatJdD5dDEMSAb-7ZF4dXHZxrDNIDJYHbF6nAo-gNgkzTsMMyQsrU3xw0vEAULsfU7E5NN-8_wPm/s1600/CAM00012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0-qktUK7omhdK93fbhyphenhyphen2-Vv2dVPrkc1lV_lHGbl9BmgY1Syw4KzoP7DwrfKPwa5lXatJdD5dDEMSAb-7ZF4dXHZxrDNIDJYHbF6nAo-gNgkzTsMMyQsrU3xw0vEAULsfU7E5NN-8_wPm/s320/CAM00012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We walked all around Ikea but didn't
buy anything. The nice thing about here is that there is no tax, so
getting ideas of how much stuff will cost is easy. At 7PM we heard
the music over the intercom that meant fasting was over. It was
amazing how the store cleared out. We were starving, so we also
headed to the crowded restaurant. Our whole meal (two chicken dinners
with rice and veggies, a salad, a cinnamon bun, two drinks, and a
chocolate bar) was only 66 AED ($17). After dinner we caught the bus
back to the mall. I feel asleep on the ride :)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
At the Marina Mall we caught a taxi to
the Mushrif Mall, where the bank and Lulu's is located. This was a
long taxi ride. The taxi's here are interesting. They are all
digital. They have these screens that track the distance and fare,
tell you about the driver, and even tell the driver when he is
speeding. It also greets you in Arabic and English. Driving through
the city is fun also because you see so many expensive cars. Shawn is
loving it!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Mushrif Mall is even bigger than
the Marina Mall. It is 5 stories and also huge and beautiful! We went
to the bank first (The National Bank of Abu Dhabi) and got my debit
card. Sadly, there is no money on it yet. We then tracked down
Lulu's. Lulu's is what they call a hypermarket. It is like a
department store and a grocery store and a appliance store all in
one. It was huge and so crowded we could barely walk around. They
were having all sorts of sales. The end of Ramadan is called Eid, a
huge holiday happening this weekend. Also, it was their 1 year
anniversary. It was like Black Friday, with sale stuff in the aisle
and people everywhere. We looked around quickly, but decided we would
go back and visit in the daytime. We also checked out this store
called Di. It is basically like a Japanese dollar store.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxFdFYjCeMhpbG0fb1rqKpNrpUfrc4YWKmbrh2dX5GdSybF46RZuZU5U4Ja90sLr1-jZq67jm5wPUzNCoXJV7ud1tlKPF6ImdGVfKA-_94GlUBPNohjDGGngDnc8d80xqO0dMxWfKyCwu/s1600/CAM00031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxFdFYjCeMhpbG0fb1rqKpNrpUfrc4YWKmbrh2dX5GdSybF46RZuZU5U4Ja90sLr1-jZq67jm5wPUzNCoXJV7ud1tlKPF6ImdGVfKA-_94GlUBPNohjDGGngDnc8d80xqO0dMxWfKyCwu/s320/CAM00031.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_29T45buyJxIVnr1Wy9RSfxHVWwsRdWfhP1vywA73EX-MygNOngymNltYDD3YdIiXB-jkEzcGlEwgrnE7ByQ-DVji_ZAaZ4CSc5Tr60Qwgva4MA08TkQ-6VVloKWNfRlffEbrlRZe_7st/s1600/CAM00033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_29T45buyJxIVnr1Wy9RSfxHVWwsRdWfhP1vywA73EX-MygNOngymNltYDD3YdIiXB-jkEzcGlEwgrnE7ByQ-DVji_ZAaZ4CSc5Tr60Qwgva4MA08TkQ-6VVloKWNfRlffEbrlRZe_7st/s320/CAM00033.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The food court was cracking me up.
There was a McDonald's. Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut, KFC and SFC
(southern fried chicken), London Fish and Chips, China King, and all
kinds of other stuff. We actually treated ourselves to a Frosty from
Wendy's and people watched. All the people here seem so happy.
Everyone at the mall seems to always be having a good time and
smiling. Also, the Emirati men seem very good family men. They are
always with their children, holding their hands or carrying the
babies. We do think we might have seen a few polygamist couples,
which is different. Also, the men are very friendly with each other,
It is not uncommon for men to hold hands. It is nothing weird to
them, just part of their culture.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX8d5zVtr-mZNEdeNMWPwjOjqK4zVyMTUipZ4E2hGsMgS4YsIdRa2r3TM85uzAFs9HqAVBYzcEtPiI5OVTEIPOq_6wGyUf1ULEufvx422jOUucmfGU0bHvWUOoEG7eVyn1nr3y9Rv3krtn/s1600/CAM00029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX8d5zVtr-mZNEdeNMWPwjOjqK4zVyMTUipZ4E2hGsMgS4YsIdRa2r3TM85uzAFs9HqAVBYzcEtPiI5OVTEIPOq_6wGyUf1ULEufvx422jOUucmfGU0bHvWUOoEG7eVyn1nr3y9Rv3krtn/s320/CAM00029.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1j7ivshiT4fToXGpq31gmsBIZpjOVQlKSN9vQuK-VMysOkyzB_yOp3gCGKRRXnEBqGHQwD0SaeFbYmqV-xWaFc8JKu7ilsGiUcyyZ5NOl9j1W_vk9IQDBqd5uBRQkHeLOgS72tVqzMV7C/s1600/CAM00030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1j7ivshiT4fToXGpq31gmsBIZpjOVQlKSN9vQuK-VMysOkyzB_yOp3gCGKRRXnEBqGHQwD0SaeFbYmqV-xWaFc8JKu7ilsGiUcyyZ5NOl9j1W_vk9IQDBqd5uBRQkHeLOgS72tVqzMV7C/s320/CAM00030.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It was now around 12:30am so we were
ready to head back. We caught another taxi back to the hotel. I
called my mom and then got into bed and watched TV. As usual, it was
hard for me to fall asleep. I have to start getting up early to
adjust, but I figure not yet. It's still vacation. I also got an
email from ADEC (Abu Dhabi Education Council) that they will be
closed next week for the holiday. The only date I know of next is
school orientation on August 27<sup>th</sup>, so I guess it's
vacation until then. Tomorrow (Friday) is Holy Day and then the
holiday, so we will probably hang out at the hotel and hit the pool
for the next couple of days. I'll update you soon! </div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-87234223290170658792012-08-17T05:08:00.001-07:002012-08-17T05:08:25.527-07:00Relaxing and testing...<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Ok... I'm going to try to write about
more than one day!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tuesday: This was a lovely, restful
day. Shawn and I slept until 10:20 and barely made it to breakfast,
which closes at 10:30. We headed back to our room with the intention
of cleaning up our stuff, but ended up in bed watching TV and napping
until 3:00. We then got up and went to the pool. The pool is really
nice, and surprisingly the water is much cooler than I thought it
would be. We bumped into a friend we made named Shon, and decided to
meet up later for dinner. Here are a few pics of the pool and view
from there:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yfC3lLF8xQAK0w75mj4aCsw7t1BJnM9SFG-_mmthnFcLlvjOz8lS_D8FF8224shnTaM-APhd0FJ1APlRC85C5ChHYosleLe5YRmZEWqaGNzxgYQ7PFzjYQRFcg5jfozZJwopE8IYoGUx/s1600/102_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yfC3lLF8xQAK0w75mj4aCsw7t1BJnM9SFG-_mmthnFcLlvjOz8lS_D8FF8224shnTaM-APhd0FJ1APlRC85C5ChHYosleLe5YRmZEWqaGNzxgYQ7PFzjYQRFcg5jfozZJwopE8IYoGUx/s320/102_0450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdrLJ88d3-HBF1voKI_72dsDxjyXyZ6dIB3OAufZRN_cQCyBpOENUvgzzuZrgD7VTRn6b7s4Skdx44CtJgRqxHoYkCzCWYq0ZmPx8Iw98QxDeZDL55e5s1E2i3TKWuQT7WH29sznj9Qrx/s1600/102_0451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdrLJ88d3-HBF1voKI_72dsDxjyXyZ6dIB3OAufZRN_cQCyBpOENUvgzzuZrgD7VTRn6b7s4Skdx44CtJgRqxHoYkCzCWYq0ZmPx8Iw98QxDeZDL55e5s1E2i3TKWuQT7WH29sznj9Qrx/s320/102_0451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5RHdbk1niGaudptBvwTK3JT02SWbT81kh8Tf69jPUZ7tZGZoTI0h1OPCXXgnJeO1WfiirMue_gfIyxWTssojARfP2MLtozC4K6XR5TlekoGzZR6Hc4PvsVDXke4GAlHaVhVyCkCp76s7/s1600/102_0449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5RHdbk1niGaudptBvwTK3JT02SWbT81kh8Tf69jPUZ7tZGZoTI0h1OPCXXgnJeO1WfiirMue_gfIyxWTssojARfP2MLtozC4K6XR5TlekoGzZR6Hc4PvsVDXke4GAlHaVhVyCkCp76s7/s320/102_0449.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcZMFbxxLOpg4uJ-4548KCa8W_n-jdMwkq_gg94xihbnNqaTFMaQM_qxlToHWqHIdOW7XqxIDge6XsiuFXIhowLCbZwLNCFzGP5Yo4LnvzKhfArH9BLqmwqBNpmYWex1jP8yoF7hfnIYX/s1600/102_0448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcZMFbxxLOpg4uJ-4548KCa8W_n-jdMwkq_gg94xihbnNqaTFMaQM_qxlToHWqHIdOW7XqxIDge6XsiuFXIhowLCbZwLNCFzGP5Yo4LnvzKhfArH9BLqmwqBNpmYWex1jP8yoF7hfnIYX/s320/102_0448.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here is the ballroom at the hotel:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUZeBIgP-AmU5yMaFFfnmVMefpBvyOZkdKf3Gq-lyydNIyOD76SaykWTaF4flCBnCXUxjgl6nAd3AcbqdXx5fbKl5r6JIrUVWvNo_gHqJE-Z2XQDjkCG70bbmmjFN3Y2xfoorsXzzOv-d/s1600/580938_3657763608689_1307977029_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUZeBIgP-AmU5yMaFFfnmVMefpBvyOZkdKf3Gq-lyydNIyOD76SaykWTaF4flCBnCXUxjgl6nAd3AcbqdXx5fbKl5r6JIrUVWvNo_gHqJE-Z2XQDjkCG70bbmmjFN3Y2xfoorsXzzOv-d/s320/580938_3657763608689_1307977029_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After the pool we went to clean
ourselves up, shower, and headed to meet Shon at a restaurant here at
the restaurant. Our goal was not to leave the hotel all day. Yet,
when we found out it was 175 AED () per person, we all decided to
head to the mall. The mall was very crowded, as usual, and most
places were very full. We didn't want to wait long so we settled on
Fudruckers and a little bit of home for dinner. Then we headed
straight back to the hotel. Shawn and I cleaned up the room and did
our laundry in the bathtub to save money. There is even a line on the
wall that comes out so you can hang the clothing up to dry! There are
a few pics below. We then laid down in bed to watch TV. I had medical
testing the next day, so I wanted to try to get to bed a little
earlier.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkn4qZuju9h98werRgBqjX9N33v694VVFp5BPleyL4ZNJ_uS6vdZUF-2Uwqh73SBRKQBOG0xwdrDuGUwRvewhT-5dUE0Hcyf34lCoRk90Z9sZOY8Jgy09hE_K6W3X9hruUG-DtZtixxPAg/s1600/102_0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkn4qZuju9h98werRgBqjX9N33v694VVFp5BPleyL4ZNJ_uS6vdZUF-2Uwqh73SBRKQBOG0xwdrDuGUwRvewhT-5dUE0Hcyf34lCoRk90Z9sZOY8Jgy09hE_K6W3X9hruUG-DtZtixxPAg/s320/102_0452.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjF-r4zldQCHCKrF-XiW-9iW4sloWUXuUtWFtjnvB-PW673FPrz4Dj0sGIUzFUCnlJEoektLmmAYKpem-ZsoPddTswMvgm3C6FJd8Im28OmVX0G1yyOAcxfPSv7RmbZrJOPpbsynsZ6RX/s1600/102_0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjF-r4zldQCHCKrF-XiW-9iW4sloWUXuUtWFtjnvB-PW673FPrz4Dj0sGIUzFUCnlJEoektLmmAYKpem-ZsoPddTswMvgm3C6FJd8Im28OmVX0G1yyOAcxfPSv7RmbZrJOPpbsynsZ6RX/s320/102_0453.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Wednesday: Up for breakfast, a little
more rest, and then ready for my medical exam. They sent buses in
shifts to pick us up. I was in the last group (grouped alphabetically
by first name) and we left about 11:30ish. This bus was nicer with
working AC and we drove through more of the city so I got to see a
little more. When we arrived it was a bit chaotic. I guess it is a
government health place, not sure but there were other people there
besides our huge group of teachers. First they handed us back our
passports and work visas and handed us a number. We were brought into
a waiting room where we had to wait for our number to be called. This
took forever because we were on what was called the normal track and
there was also a fast track for other people, so their numbers would
jump ahead of ours. I chatted and made new friends during the wait. I
was also close to one of the last ones called. Once called, we went
to the desk where they took down info from our passports and visas
and also took our picture. We were then sent to the next station to
have our blood pressure, height, and weight taken. My weight was in
kg so I had no idea how much I weighed haha.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The next station was a doctors visit. I
told her I was pregnant and she wrote down that I was excused from
the chest x-ray station until after the baby is born. She quickly
checked my skin on my chest and back and that was it. Other people
said the doctor listened to their heart and stuff, but mine just
checked all my boxes and sent me on my way. I guess because I was
close to last she was done! He next station was the blood draw. This
station also took forever waiting. There wasn't a clear system of
order. I think I was the last one to get y blood drawn. The guy was
nice and it went quickly... which is good because that is my least
favorite part! Then there was the urine sample.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The “female toilet” had two sinks
open to the hallway and then a door to the actual toilet. While two
of us were waiting, two Emerati men walked up and motioned their
hands that they needed to use the sinks. They then proceeded to wash
their hands, face, and then feet. They stuck their feet up there and
scrubbed away, making a big mess. We had no idea what was going on.
When they finished they walked into the hallway and pulled out their
prayer rug. We then realized they were cleaning for prayer. It was
the first time I saw the call to prayer that close. They prayed,
bowing their heads to their mats, rolled their mats up, and were on
their way.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After the urine sample, I got to
by-pass the x-ray and headed to the fingerprint scan. They scanned
all my fingers and palms. I handed my passport back to the agency,
and was sent back to the bus. On the bus ride back, I got to talk to
a British Muslin woman. It was interesting to hear her view on
things, like being a Muslim in a non-Islamic world such as England
and what the prayer meant to her. She was very nice and happy to
share information with us.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When I got back to the hotel, I ate
some lunch in my room and then settled in for the evening. It was
already after 4. Shawn had met some friends and they decided to have
a boys bowling night. He left a round 6, so I had the evening. I made
some phone calls, worked on my blogs, ate some food we have in the
room, and settled in for the evening in bed with a good movie. Shawn
had a fun time bowling and made some more new friends. All in all a
good evening (besides being starving at 1am and eating salad, bread,
and Nutella haha). </div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-82960828816799069672012-08-17T04:55:00.002-07:002012-08-17T04:55:42.207-07:00Our new "flat"<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I have so much to share it is hard to
keep up! I am going to try to fit it all in, but I want to tell you
all the details!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Monday: This was a very exciting day.
The night before we found out our living placements. We are assigned
to a complex in the city of Al Ain. Although living in the city on
the beach would have been nice, Al Ain looks nice as well... and it's
free so I can't complain. Al Ain is called the Garden city. It is the
second largest in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and fourth largest in the
country. It is built around a bunch of oases and has a ton to do.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwruADBjJup2SHSY7vZzzQPSlsWo_iRbykcQgYo5AbTWpgF16o4nxrSGLulwMwB5SFAKm0tKyryAC0HqN2CXXR5C3uoemyN6GL3CkbNK-jjX5vCHq035PqlGX98FiUznlzn9L7el9wwvx3/s1600/alain1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwruADBjJup2SHSY7vZzzQPSlsWo_iRbykcQgYo5AbTWpgF16o4nxrSGLulwMwB5SFAKm0tKyryAC0HqN2CXXR5C3uoemyN6GL3CkbNK-jjX5vCHq035PqlGX98FiUznlzn9L7el9wwvx3/s320/alain1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxieX-ArSrkGfCE5bU6WHlbynxRe0rwsGKqhlEZZ3vJe-WVK4-xBrtR8hA3pn-VGLItAP_TUCev5dBWWimIj6cVT33TCEI1vV41jSlD7Mh-jxQhiyhpLbdMOsJrH_zKmAve-fv3p08nZPS/s1600/map_of_uae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxieX-ArSrkGfCE5bU6WHlbynxRe0rwsGKqhlEZZ3vJe-WVK4-xBrtR8hA3pn-VGLItAP_TUCev5dBWWimIj6cVT33TCEI1vV41jSlD7Mh-jxQhiyhpLbdMOsJrH_zKmAve-fv3p08nZPS/s320/map_of_uae.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Monday morning we were so excited as we
loaded our bus to go check it out. They had buses for each complex.
Our is called Muawjii Villiage. We found our seats and were on our
way. Yet, we quickly learned that the AC on the bus was not very
powerful and could not keep up during the ride. About 20 min. in and
we were already soaked with sweat. On the way there we stopped at a
gas station for a restroom break. It was in the middle of nowhere
land. There was no food or anything inside, just a drink machine.
Luckily the drinks were cold. The toilet was just a porcelain hole in
the ground. This was a challenge! I was getting afraid this was a
preview of Al Ain, but it wasn't! Here is a picture:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPPjJXg4cT1gDMc3XCLcxQJrkJnpiLrWvTbPuBqFh-3U9xOYMVkTtYeZr1jJ3AfK5NB3GQP8J34VN5DW2FElR4uvoKKM5XBUqih6vyVhB3DJGAoYmE0UrDjM_Ivg8pKDe9fHO9hFITnG6/s1600/269776_3656593059426_1223412106_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPPjJXg4cT1gDMc3XCLcxQJrkJnpiLrWvTbPuBqFh-3U9xOYMVkTtYeZr1jJ3AfK5NB3GQP8J34VN5DW2FElR4uvoKKM5XBUqih6vyVhB3DJGAoYmE0UrDjM_Ivg8pKDe9fHO9hFITnG6/s320/269776_3656593059426_1223412106_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View on the way to Al Ain</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsDzKJUnSlNGiPU6IwbUvQn76GNUPdQdXx6je48oLVr6evAEW_dgF9TukXsteUJGHaPekYsTM5MdoAQ-MgDXLwi7QbIIQUrCwRz2BD3NFyuDGVi1yMMpuL99SCzopzThDdlsof0TjG8ra/s1600/102_0446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsDzKJUnSlNGiPU6IwbUvQn76GNUPdQdXx6je48oLVr6evAEW_dgF9TukXsteUJGHaPekYsTM5MdoAQ-MgDXLwi7QbIIQUrCwRz2BD3NFyuDGVi1yMMpuL99SCzopzThDdlsof0TjG8ra/s320/102_0446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we arrived in Al Ain we stopped
near a grocery store. We all went inside for some AC and get drinks
and snacks. We had to bring them back on the bus and close the
curtains because it is still Ramadan. They then began to hand us our
keys. This process took forever because they had to go back and forth
between buses and they were missing some people's keys. So we sat for
another hour on the hot bus after a two hour ride. My pregnancy
stated to kick in and I got very nauseous. I went to wait in the
store, but finally we were on our way.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Driving through Al Ain to our place was
very beautiful. It is amazing how green middle of the desert can be!
When we pulled up we were pleasantly surprised. The complex has gated
security and is very clean and new looking. There is underground
parking and then building with two floors. We are in building E, flat
70. First floor and right near the fitness center and the pool. You
go through big doors into your building and then find your door. As
mentioned before, all very nice and clean. We couldn't wait to open
ours!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
The complex:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVe7WhyphenhyphenJdZ9Wl4zkpdqZvEDOS4rlz4n3g8Bvz4BhiFN8PWYFblPTb4_mJtiz9ta0dGS-R6z7gf_aIF7hBhyphenhyphenyovOdRM1lXaHajVfN7rI8kO2KfZW2EYYqR3uo2XK6d3Vh1_rLzjOWCxDhH/s1600/102_0437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVe7WhyphenhyphenJdZ9Wl4zkpdqZvEDOS4rlz4n3g8Bvz4BhiFN8PWYFblPTb4_mJtiz9ta0dGS-R6z7gf_aIF7hBhyphenhyphenyovOdRM1lXaHajVfN7rI8kO2KfZW2EYYqR3uo2XK6d3Vh1_rLzjOWCxDhH/s320/102_0437.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The pool: Three days a week for 3 hours has a women's only swim. All other times anyone can swim.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v5hRT2uOxlGuQmwmW-oHIlgLJ9dsOChDEb6JrjRBbScMRdh1gKMSYk0yIlQ7zMd1bjO_nQT041L4RBfPrrHu4VTyLTs0b9dMGz41inpVh6Rm1JDBZ2CEtmGp6qKJ_29VwvnD3xepF2bI/s1600/102_0442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v5hRT2uOxlGuQmwmW-oHIlgLJ9dsOChDEb6JrjRBbScMRdh1gKMSYk0yIlQ7zMd1bjO_nQT041L4RBfPrrHu4VTyLTs0b9dMGz41inpVh6Rm1JDBZ2CEtmGp6qKJ_29VwvnD3xepF2bI/s320/102_0442.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Men's Fitness Center. Women's in downstairs: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCcZCnB9RSvpAtxAvN8DlqJtMxAvjcNfGtbYA0KUKZMO-8hbHbMr1kbIIt9pmboE62wSSK7FKE8S6Srb6yJ_ZXwm555FNArLZdjjC3FNIFyIE1UKHt9E8RCNENpUKFzA1obVft7YqKWMq9/s1600/102_0443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCcZCnB9RSvpAtxAvN8DlqJtMxAvjcNfGtbYA0KUKZMO-8hbHbMr1kbIIt9pmboE62wSSK7FKE8S6Srb6yJ_ZXwm555FNArLZdjjC3FNIFyIE1UKHt9E8RCNENpUKFzA1obVft7YqKWMq9/s320/102_0443.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The place is very nice and clean. When
you walk in there is a small guest bathroom to your right and a
hallway. Then to the right is a tiny kitchen. It is nice through with
new counter tops and cabinets. We have to buy our refrigerator and
stove... which will have to be tiny. To the left in the living space.
Half of it will be our living room and the other half for dining.
Also off the hallway in a little alcove for the washer/dryer. At the
end of the hallway are two huge bedrooms, each with their own
bathroom. There are no closets though,, so we will have to buy
wardrobes. That is very common here. The bathrooms are smaller, but
they will do. All the floors are tile and there are big windows,
although we don't have a good view. But, as stated before, it's free!
Also, the apartment was clean, except there looked like there was an
explosion in one of the toilets. We told the manager, and after he
saw it and had a very funny reaction, he told us it would be cleaned
right away. Here are some pics:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
Living Room area:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinotadxm16dCz7r4brh1c65YBOYLmQhyWpOOiYDbhKJJMy69M8REnSa0bRtqQ2Sz2BgDp-oNCS4pCiMY-_UoQFh4wtT0cFywjhsFRDJUuSTvUXFz7zpvsLVnrRteOij8qh7_pbmAk1gcxy/s1600/102_0438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinotadxm16dCz7r4brh1c65YBOYLmQhyWpOOiYDbhKJJMy69M8REnSa0bRtqQ2Sz2BgDp-oNCS4pCiMY-_UoQFh4wtT0cFywjhsFRDJUuSTvUXFz7zpvsLVnrRteOij8qh7_pbmAk1gcxy/s320/102_0438.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kitchen;</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6b6YYCvFRTPY8JdXbgxvaAgLdPiRmV-b7SNCMxR5Do2Img2HfZUd6fAU1SC8PoJ7g_V9qZHd6ayPBpjzPi0f5viBGy4636Wdk_8pCuo6khw7KUdBKNi5iSIpZlzqM6KPKOZsZXmxC9ZXo/s1600/102_0439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6b6YYCvFRTPY8JdXbgxvaAgLdPiRmV-b7SNCMxR5Do2Img2HfZUd6fAU1SC8PoJ7g_V9qZHd6ayPBpjzPi0f5viBGy4636Wdk_8pCuo6khw7KUdBKNi5iSIpZlzqM6KPKOZsZXmxC9ZXo/s320/102_0439.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bedrooms:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhENV2lbVVL18MS3xlYZQiM8fTbk2hm-Op9JfgMfk-fGJomqA6nBrF8MtcS5gZyu7NI9A9TwTsMGZcEHxwpKN6tnzTjA1eQc5MpIAJdL7BRQNHYCWWLRrmdCGpNNRNz5wPl7F5YU_9hPwMe/s1600/102_0440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhENV2lbVVL18MS3xlYZQiM8fTbk2hm-Op9JfgMfk-fGJomqA6nBrF8MtcS5gZyu7NI9A9TwTsMGZcEHxwpKN6tnzTjA1eQc5MpIAJdL7BRQNHYCWWLRrmdCGpNNRNz5wPl7F5YU_9hPwMe/s320/102_0440.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcHz6ehzuhqX_4kRwlPao91s280SCygWuy-NthSgBL44Q7NTynVZwhOnpGDvAvpijYaIZ2WtKI2zw-WFZuE2amfqBXsUSL6-RSGncmAXzy8jFB9ymencdmFF6H1hOEyK5NaPPu-SZ2hRn2/s1600/102_0441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcHz6ehzuhqX_4kRwlPao91s280SCygWuy-NthSgBL44Q7NTynVZwhOnpGDvAvpijYaIZ2WtKI2zw-WFZuE2amfqBXsUSL6-RSGncmAXzy8jFB9ymencdmFF6H1hOEyK5NaPPu-SZ2hRn2/s320/102_0441.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It was funny to hear different people's
reactions. In my complex there are mostly teachers... probably at
least 20-30 of us new this year. There is also a lot of diversity
with people from England, Ireland, Finland, and of course America.
Many Americans were disappointed while the Europeans thought they
were “lovely.” I head we were they only complex so far in Al Ain
that people were placed in that have a pool and fitness center, so
I'm very happy!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We had to wait a while for the people
who didn't have keys to get some. We have made friends with a lady
named LuShana. She has an 8 year old son with her named Xavier who
has taken to Shawn. It was cute because he wanted to see our place
and know where we were going to live so he can come over. They took
awhile to get keys, but it finally worked out. We also had to wait
for the other bus of people for our place to arrive because the bus
driver got lost! Finally, we had to wait because there were some
people complaining they were on the first floor and they wanted the
second. Seems silly to me, after all they are all the same. They said
it was for safety, but the whole place is very safe. Either way, it
was a lot more waiting in the heat and another two hour ride home. We
left at 8:30 in the morning and arrived back around4:30, and 99% of
that time we were in the heat. Welcome to the desert!
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When we got back we showered, got
cleaned up, and then headed to the mall. At the mall, we bought
ourselves local cell phones. It is very different how it works over
here. First you buy the actual phone from a store. I got a cheap
Nokia, looks like a Blackberry, and Shawn got a smart-phone so we can
have GPS and internet access if needed. Then you pick one of two
providers, Etisalat or Du. We went with Etisalat. We went to their
store in the mall and you buy a SIM card. Then, because we are doing
prepaid, you buy a card with minutes. Also, for Shawn's phone, he has
to buy the data each month. He will have to bring it somewhere to
have the data loaded on. Also, you don't really buy minutes, you buy
units. Calls and texts use these units, but differently then minutes.
As I said before, it is different but I am glad to have a local
number and a way to contact Shawn. We also pooped by Carrefour for
laundry detergent so I can wash clothes in the hotel. We ate dinner
in the food court at the mall as well. The mall is interesting
because there are a lot of people dressed in traditional clothing and
the mall even has rules asking you to be modest, yet all the displays
are mannequins wearing short skirts and such. There were even
mannequins wearing American flag clothing and bags.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It was an adventure, but the next day
was a rest day... nothing planned. Finally I could hit the pool! </div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-91694709317818198452012-08-15T10:57:00.001-07:002012-08-15T10:57:12.074-07:00A whole new world!Well... we made it and so far we are loving our adventure. If you remember from my last post, I left off Sat. night when we arrived at the hotel... so I will pick up from there.<br />
<br />
After receiving our keys we ventured into our room. When we walked in we noticed a slot next to the door that said "insert key for power." We put our key in and the lights came on. We took the key out and they turned off. We put it back in and switched the light switches to on... took the key out and lights went out. It was pretty humorous. We finally figured out that you have to leave your key in the slot for power, which is pretty genies. This way you never leave lights on when you leave and you don't forget your key. Everything is very green here... Loving it already!<br />
<br />
Our hotel room in huge. I posted a few pics in my last blog update. We have a king sized bed, couch, chair, tv, computer desk, coffee station, and a huge bathroom. The bathroom has a free standing shower with a rainfall shower head (heaven!!!), a tub, a vanity, and a separate room with toilet and bidet. Every single toilet either has a bidet or at least the sprayer. I have yet to use it, but it is very interesting! Here is a picture:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZi9adiQi1tKJkyzjb3dW6p9gQL4vUJiNPMA5clyCFe50YYVVamQYqO4Ii5AdllAEc-UC8sxsSjN4Yw0CFSu71ZDFnfV7VEZmGhy_RzdIwgYdNma3b6zUbYlYeHaqvKzL3pGE5_vffiKI/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZi9adiQi1tKJkyzjb3dW6p9gQL4vUJiNPMA5clyCFe50YYVVamQYqO4Ii5AdllAEc-UC8sxsSjN4Yw0CFSu71ZDFnfV7VEZmGhy_RzdIwgYdNma3b6zUbYlYeHaqvKzL3pGE5_vffiKI/s320/photo+(2).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sunday: Sunday was orientation. Something you should know is that the weekends here are Friday and Sat. Friday is their holy day, so Sunday is a workday. Before orientation we got up for our free breakfast. It is a HUGE buffet of anything you could ever want. The room is blocked off with curtains and dividers so that we can eat breakfast. It is Ramadan right now, which means you cannot eat or drink in public from sun-up to sun-down. The Islam faith fasts during that time. After breakfast I went to orientation with some friends I made from Atlanta. They basically went over the basics, our housing and payroll information. We signed up for bank accounts and handed in our passports and work visa to get our residency visa sponsored. Other vendors were set up to help us with furniture shopping, car rentals, etc... Everyone was very friendly and helpful. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After orientation Shawn and I ordered room service for lunch (which is pretty inexpensive) and rested a bit. Then we caught a free bus with some other friends to a store called Home Center to look at furniture. The store was huge. Everyone was so friendly. It is a very different shopping experience. They are helpful but not pushy, and we never felt pressured to buy anything. We did find a few things we like, and teachers get a 20% discount and free delivery. A little after 7 the fasting was broken and they offered us water, tea, and coffee. Here is Shawn enjoying some (from what I hear) delicious coffee at the store:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GqoERqUEvsNf-R_ndpXpjJF5_rrmM-pB20avzmXH3dbHa-6zkCBMa3nV0cni7SuEg7Nn063xN5xEWN4qhvDyWJ6AA7B872MXDOVzX56O5JPuX95kVstYc_-GLoeywDLnKcIQJVxSY_B2/s1600/102_0427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GqoERqUEvsNf-R_ndpXpjJF5_rrmM-pB20avzmXH3dbHa-6zkCBMa3nV0cni7SuEg7Nn063xN5xEWN4qhvDyWJ6AA7B872MXDOVzX56O5JPuX95kVstYc_-GLoeywDLnKcIQJVxSY_B2/s320/102_0427.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also went to a part of the store called the Baby Shop and found the cutest elephant stroller. Very exciting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After wandering around, we walked over to the mall, which is almost attached to the home store. I don't think I will get used to walking from indoors to outside. The heat and humidity hits you like a wall and it is hard to breathe at first. My glasses fog up and it takes forever for them to return to normal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The mall is HUGE... 3 floors and goes on forever. We wandered around and just looked. Shop owners are very friendly and all speak English. Also, everything is very clean. There is always a bunch of cleaning people walking around mopping the floor. Here are a few pics of the mall:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxlaTC1fOepaTGnagTmBWgaIQgJmQt5LvzsmAiNn5kVOUjOG1I12Fy2guv7rEXewOlmyTL_S4qMjjVGLQBxuozFYSauonCLBcT__jjFjeTHelNqtNEQovSMYQp9Ru0pbusTop7cld-vAx/s1600/102_0431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxlaTC1fOepaTGnagTmBWgaIQgJmQt5LvzsmAiNn5kVOUjOG1I12Fy2guv7rEXewOlmyTL_S4qMjjVGLQBxuozFYSauonCLBcT__jjFjeTHelNqtNEQovSMYQp9Ru0pbusTop7cld-vAx/s320/102_0431.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBg5KQGeVh0pF7LOh8jHwb8nYEQG5gm4z7Y1D8GvdpoJbWARMrmEBAoqrlH3Kdn5XtAUP-tFEtArsTcTSjx9-IMOc3CHkTUej5T0DLVj6qns1Cf29smRLmsjHBPuUfMy_KwuXGwQJuB-P/s1600/102_0430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBg5KQGeVh0pF7LOh8jHwb8nYEQG5gm4z7Y1D8GvdpoJbWARMrmEBAoqrlH3Kdn5XtAUP-tFEtArsTcTSjx9-IMOc3CHkTUej5T0DLVj6qns1Cf29smRLmsjHBPuUfMy_KwuXGwQJuB-P/s320/102_0430.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">A Cafe and fountain in the mall.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cHzJ0Teycv-kIOB2shagLaDRVvLruIMSoi6Q_99e5awmv0jd9-Ioll-1eZtxFXkAHeR49F_kPJeobT5tD99Cz1mo3MvKFt7chJizmpTybA6o-bB92dmxEgxa_J_8hNhTbt9dTYPWKcYn/s1600/102_0434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cHzJ0Teycv-kIOB2shagLaDRVvLruIMSoi6Q_99e5awmv0jd9-Ioll-1eZtxFXkAHeR49F_kPJeobT5tD99Cz1mo3MvKFt7chJizmpTybA6o-bB92dmxEgxa_J_8hNhTbt9dTYPWKcYn/s320/102_0434.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsn3yklIu87n8DOTnVnPLDTq5xg5pclBoIHFVenCZ2jNRaqzEopvCg9b6D3lg8kY7NBWjn7tfEmChZ2mjw3ksuBAFGmSrh9gLwTOflOmvodTVRW3Dx3KVRxR-uudJMrjclMfOOKz7glGEq/s1600/102_0436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsn3yklIu87n8DOTnVnPLDTq5xg5pclBoIHFVenCZ2jNRaqzEopvCg9b6D3lg8kY7NBWjn7tfEmChZ2mjw3ksuBAFGmSrh9gLwTOflOmvodTVRW3Dx3KVRxR-uudJMrjclMfOOKz7glGEq/s1600/102_0436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsn3yklIu87n8DOTnVnPLDTq5xg5pclBoIHFVenCZ2jNRaqzEopvCg9b6D3lg8kY7NBWjn7tfEmChZ2mjw3ksuBAFGmSrh9gLwTOflOmvodTVRW3Dx3KVRxR-uudJMrjclMfOOKz7glGEq/s320/102_0436.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
Dinner with friends at an Iranian restaurant in the mall and a picture of the front of the mall, showing the humidity. It was very interesting when we were at the restaurant, the waiter always addressed Shawn for questions and not the ladies. He was our male escort :)</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
We also went to a place called Carrefour... it is like a huge Wal-mart. We got some groceries for our small fridge there and caught a taxi home. We didn't get back until after 1am... so then we hit the bed. We had a big day ahead of us Monday... getting to see our new apartment! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6202837085916925188.post-4919192166888063692012-08-13T08:03:00.000-07:002012-08-13T08:03:53.186-07:00Hurry up and wait...Our plane trip story...<br />
<br />
11:30 (Thursday): We are on our way to the RDU airport and super excited. My dad drove us and helped carry our luggage in. All the luggage we were checking was weighed and we didn't have to pay any overage fees. We had called the airline before and reserved special seating... two seats to ourselves on the side so Shawn would have window and I would have aisle. We were flying on an Airbus and super excited... ready to go!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtrgyRpKrcg_vXeKvtTclNBVIJLVPKaBA7pyDALjuZbUo3SAx8Z4VMPaKAn8kpSOXlqQ2z6EguheLqiEBl1kYBkJwqk2buIIvOx1Hg_kieSo7-JMuhWa6-14CXai6VceCF2WwkgSRhKVf/s1600/616745_885487823323_1967511690_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtrgyRpKrcg_vXeKvtTclNBVIJLVPKaBA7pyDALjuZbUo3SAx8Z4VMPaKAn8kpSOXlqQ2z6EguheLqiEBl1kYBkJwqk2buIIvOx1Hg_kieSo7-JMuhWa6-14CXai6VceCF2WwkgSRhKVf/s320/616745_885487823323_1967511690_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We make it through security fine. I opted for the body pat down because I was scared of the body scanners and being pregnant. We find our gate, eat lunch, and even get some Starbucks drinks with some gift cards I had. Then we board at 1:50ish. This was a small plane to take us to JFK in New York. Our itineray was as follows: RDU-JFK (arrive at 3:50ish). Then a 6 1/2 hour layover... depart JFK at 10:40pm and Arrive in Abu Dhabi at 7:00PM the next day their time. We were so excited to start our journey as we boarded the plane. We buckled in and the plane taxied out to the runway... then the fun began.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2:30: The next thing you know, the plane is headed back to the airport due to weather delays in New York. We are told there will be a four hour delay. We make out phone calls and settle down to wait.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3:30: Flight is cancelled due to weather. We go to the desk to ask what our options are and notice another flight leaving a few gates down for JFK in about 2 hours. I ask the lady if we can go on that flight and she tells us no because it is booked. We are told we will have to go on the next flight to La Guardia airport. There we will have to pick up our four 50 pound bags, take a bus to JFK, re-check our luggage, and then catch our flight. We try to explain that I am pregnant and cannot carry the luggage, and again request to be on the JFK flight. Again the lady says no. We get our new tickets and sit down to wait.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4:30: We are called up to the desk and upgraded to first class. Ten minutes later they call us again and take the tickets back because of some priority seating person wants them now. Flight has also been delayed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
7:30: We board the plane. We sit and wait about 20 minutes before being de-boarded. Flight is cancelled. We are then told by a new person we should be on the waiting list for the JFK flight (the same one I wanted to be on a waiting list for 3 hours ago!!!!!!) We put our names in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
8:30: We are number 1 and 2 on the waiting list. We think we might make it! The plane is finally boarding. Then a lady walks up whose flight was just cancelled and because she has priority seating we get bumped down on the list. I am sure this happens a few more times. If we had been on the list 5 hours ago I am sure we would have made it, but we don't. The plane is full and we are left behind. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
9:00: We are discussing options with the new guy at the desk. Only option now is to take a flight the next day at 6PM on a different airline. There goes our special seating arrangement. I cried and argued, but could not get them to pay for a hotel. Shawn and I discussed it, and decided to just pay for a hotel instead of trying to call a bunch of people to tote our stuff to someone's house and then have them drive us back the next day. We ask the man for a hotel voucher.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
9:30ish: We get a hotel voucher for a discount rate at La Quinta. The man tells us to call a number and they will send a shuttle to get us. We decide to go eat first because we are starving.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10:00: We pick up all our luggage and call the number only to hear that hotel does not do a shuttle. hey said we will have to call a cab. I go to the information desk and begin to call hotels. Luckily, the Hilton offers us the same rate.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10:30: The Hilton picks us up and we check in a few minutes later. Here is all our luggage at the hotel:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7Mr5N3yF-i3FUGvihAYgtrirCo2ot6Qn-zkunTH5FyszgcxQF_-CyNN-UtrBm23AxUDYyaJ2ZNR3l7GTikgWZcktWSfBTGlPNJYuMkDl7rAJ2_7oP9w7FV-tdi5JgxCVAP-6o1jgR1iE/s1600/209555_885659399483_1748308112_o+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7Mr5N3yF-i3FUGvihAYgtrirCo2ot6Qn-zkunTH5FyszgcxQF_-CyNN-UtrBm23AxUDYyaJ2ZNR3l7GTikgWZcktWSfBTGlPNJYuMkDl7rAJ2_7oP9w7FV-tdi5JgxCVAP-6o1jgR1iE/s320/209555_885659399483_1748308112_o+(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next morning we treat ourselves to room service and spend the day relaxing. The people at the hotel were very friendly and allowed us to extend check-out to 3:00pm. I spent a long time on the phone with American Airlines trying to get better seats, but it didn't happen. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3:00 (Friday): We check out and head to the airport. We had to wait in a long line to get our new tickets issued, but all bags made it through again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4:00: Headed through security again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4:30: Found our gate and made our last phone calls. Here we are waiting again:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbD59uzpDCI9ce5Qn72u6w3xh1Lw1P63h2anSIwTM0YEPFTEbAVbC7VXwR0fauOBeLn0V_QKd-rjRIvssakKL5-g8hgDvtevTA9SHw7RZnz4F83OhCEYkckt02FYxEU6YO4TUFNQJd29i/s1600/258410_885883914553_171802493_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbD59uzpDCI9ce5Qn72u6w3xh1Lw1P63h2anSIwTM0YEPFTEbAVbC7VXwR0fauOBeLn0V_QKd-rjRIvssakKL5-g8hgDvtevTA9SHw7RZnz4F83OhCEYkckt02FYxEU6YO4TUFNQJd29i/s320/258410_885883914553_171802493_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5:00: Boarded </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6:15ish: Headed to London. It was a seven hour flight through the night. The seats were small. We watched a movie called The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. It was actually pretty good. We all didn't have our own personal TV's, just a few down the aisles. After that and dinner I tried to sleep, but it didn't go well. We were also served a light breakfast.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
7:15am (Sat. London time) 2:15am our time; Arrived in London. When we got there we checked for our terminal and the screen said 4, so we got on a bus to take us there from 2. Each bus ride is 8 minutes. When we get off the bus, the wheel on Shawn's carry-on breaks off. His carry-on was very heavy because it had the laptop, Playstation, Wii, and other electronics. He was also carrying his book bag and my shoulder bag carry on that was pretty heavy. He was about to get a major workout!!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We get to terminal 4 and the man tells us we have to to terminal 3... another bus ride. We get to terminal 3 and are told to go to terminal 5... another bus ride. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
8:00 am London time: Finally, we make it to the right terminal. We have to go through security again and of course a potty break, so we make it to the terminal just as boarding begins. This flight was British Airways. I didn't get any pics at the London airport because we were so rushed :( </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
9:30 am London time: We are on our way to Abu Dhabi. This flight was a little better. The seats were a bit more comfortable and we each had our own TV's with options on movies and TV shows. I watched the Avengers, slept a little, and of course stretched my legs. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
7:45PM Abu Dhabi time (11:45am Raleigh time): We land in Abu Dhabi!!! A person from the travel agent met us at the gate and navigated us where we needed to go. The first place was to get an eye scan. Then we went through customs and had passports and visas stamped. Finally we picked up baggage. We were so excited ours made it: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyuf8BI8_psY-WYgwJYctLMa8PgxQzuHsd6yjv-ksIdHzjdx6iPfJF_aX6nKpJf0fWUP76kOSkXC__z2QSN8FiEFV5gjjA_T-GEFG49t47o2VNPyUw8dsUTWYjps5Zj72jZdnnUKa_7dW/s1600/10437_886123793833_421130372_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyuf8BI8_psY-WYgwJYctLMa8PgxQzuHsd6yjv-ksIdHzjdx6iPfJF_aX6nKpJf0fWUP76kOSkXC__z2QSN8FiEFV5gjjA_T-GEFG49t47o2VNPyUw8dsUTWYjps5Zj72jZdnnUKa_7dW/s320/10437_886123793833_421130372_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The people in the background are other teachers too. We had to wait for a little while because we were sent to 2 different hotels. While we waited we chatted and made friends. Also, everything here is in Arabic and English: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7yuEBkoUjpqZqDElL6LLVVj8Eokh2Qc5ls5OfUVmCfCCNjUhPrnH2u268Svf6suTVarh9cO5ADKBxu7nigmAne8sixkGKEnufP4mCSnp8w9KO02aTEsTIcZnHm8M9RRAsYZ-XN058qb-/s1600/484524_886120994443_1508830823_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7yuEBkoUjpqZqDElL6LLVVj8Eokh2Qc5ls5OfUVmCfCCNjUhPrnH2u268Svf6suTVarh9cO5ADKBxu7nigmAne8sixkGKEnufP4mCSnp8w9KO02aTEsTIcZnHm8M9RRAsYZ-XN058qb-/s320/484524_886120994443_1508830823_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10:30ish: We are greeted by vans and also feel the heat and humidity outside... wow! The vans take us to our hotel</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
11:00PM: We check into our hotel: the Intercontinental. They label our bags so they can bring them to our rooms, give us juice, coffee, and cold towels, and hand us keys. We finally head to our room and get ready for the night because I have orientation at 9:00AM the next morning. Here is the hotel... beautiful! <a href="http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/abudhabi">http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/abudhabi</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxntanFRg_dtmatteIz4DSdkvEuhlacGh2g4h1UVwczIro37omreD3nkR7HrIdMS9r12B1uJl_lWZcuLiybzW9-J4a7SzcSsKFWF5BBR12wmgcwORq0vQTr50rXle6sRaDR2D_09PlPA4U/s1600/553645_886155964363_21186657_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxntanFRg_dtmatteIz4DSdkvEuhlacGh2g4h1UVwczIro37omreD3nkR7HrIdMS9r12B1uJl_lWZcuLiybzW9-J4a7SzcSsKFWF5BBR12wmgcwORq0vQTr50rXle6sRaDR2D_09PlPA4U/s320/553645_886155964363_21186657_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gdD2FhvI7Z1DtFthWK7HHJvhGHuUiwmKzRQuKX8sFEnzQLTTK_rfJ_b2-_OwrEW_y4RPkz7wrKpFTk1qCDP647vkHRo8a-q6QZNUmrf6ArH1rstb2fBEEFlRFZo-zq6C5pq0MpVPfBWQ/s1600/428954_886165205843_1792558380_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gdD2FhvI7Z1DtFthWK7HHJvhGHuUiwmKzRQuKX8sFEnzQLTTK_rfJ_b2-_OwrEW_y4RPkz7wrKpFTk1qCDP647vkHRo8a-q6QZNUmrf6ArH1rstb2fBEEFlRFZo-zq6C5pq0MpVPfBWQ/s320/428954_886165205843_1792558380_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View from hotel!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well... it is dinner time here as I right this. I can hear the call to prayer as I sit at the desk... the fasting is over for the day! Look for my next post about shopping, culture, and our apartments! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Ryannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01082931431126008042noreply@blogger.com0