Oftentimes while speaking with people they want to know all of the glamourous and interesting details of overseas living. Here is another glorious episode of the 'glamour' I experience in daily life.
As you may have read in another blog entry, I am hosting a cookie exchange at my home. Being the hostess, I had planned a menu of cookies, breads, and fruit spreads. What is one main ingredient to at least 2 of those menu items? Eggs. Our eggs are imported from a nearby country and recently there was a bird flu scare. Consequently, all shipment of eggs was terminated until further notice. For two days I, along with other cookie exchangers, searched in numerous grocery stores, supermarkets, and neighborhood markets for eggs. No luck. By Thursday morning my patience was running thin and I was having serious doubts if there would be any cookies at all for the exchange. Then the call came. C knew I was in a pinch and heard that ONE supermarket in the town of 300,000+ had eggs. Half a dozen eggs was going to cost a whopping $3 USD.
Before I could make it to that side of town, I had to pay the electric/water bill. After standing in line for 45 minutes, I was sure I had missed my opportunity to purchase the few eggs remaining at that supermarket. I paid our bill and decided to stop at every little store on the way in hopes of finding eggs. Keep in mind I had already been to numerous stores the few days before. By the 3rd store I was verbalizing my request to the Father for eggs. A simple request in my mind. BINGO! The 3rd store had received only one crate with 12 flats of eggs one hour before I arrived. Half of the crate had already been sold. I bought a whole flat of 30 eggs for $10 USD. I sent a text message to other invitees to let them know I had found eggs. Now we can make cookies and bread for the party!
This Egg Hunt frustration was compounded by the fact I was also looking for the ingredients to make a simple spice tea. You know the one where you mix Lipton Instant Tea, Orange Tang, Instant Lemonade, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar together. This was going to be one of the gifts to be given to the party guests. Would you believe that this country does not sell instant lemonade? I found instant drink with mango, orange, pineapple, and mixed berry flavors, but no lemonade. After much inner debate, I grabbed the pineapple and added it to my shopping cart. After sampling the mix at home, the pineapple adds a nice touch. So if you are in a jam and need a quick substitute for instant lemonade, try instant pineapple.
I hope you have enjoyed reading about life's little setbacks here. There is a very true statement about living in this part of the world, "Life takes all day." Every little task that has been simplified in many regions of the world has not been simplified here. So although we enjoy and soak up all of the wonderful aspects of living where we do, there are some things that make us dream of the way things used to be.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Friday, December 7, 2007
C's Letter of Permission
Any official process in a new country causes my stomach to do flip flops. Why? It's like I'm entering Jr.High again. You know. That awkward, out-of-place feeling you had when walking into the cafeteria and not knowing who to sit with? That's the way I feel anytime I walk into a new government building in a country where I don't speak the local language, nor understand all of the cultural customs.
Recently, my temporary driver's license expired. Remembering my trials with obtaining my temporary driver's license, I had an inkling that switching that to a permanent license could take many tries. I was right.
Knowing I would need some back-up in my attempt in getting my new license, I asked a friend of mine who has amazing language abilities and has lived in this region for nearly 10 years. She was brilliant in navigating me to the correct 'office' in order to pay someone to copy my official documents. Then we walked to another building to get a ticket to wait in a cue for a completely covered woman to help us. Our number came up and my friend explained to her what I needed. She looked through all of my papers as I could feel my faced getting warm. Her eyes focused on mine as she asked in broken English, "Where is your husbands' letter of permission?" "Excuse me?", I asked. She repeated her question and I asked for clarification in what she needed. In order for any woman in this country to obtain a driver's license, she must have a letter for her 'sponsor'. That could mean your father, if you are not married, or your husband, if you are. It's as if you are not truly a contributing member of society unless you are male. If you are female, you are subject to be just that--subject to men. Before walking away from the counter, without my permanent license, the clerk told me that I would need a letter typed in the local language from my husband claiming I had his permission to drive.
Humph! My emotions were mixed. I didn't know if I should laugh, cry, or scream in frustration. I opted for laughing as the other two responses would not help the situation. I immediately called C and explained the situation. Then my friend and I walked to another building and paid a man to type a letter in the local language that C would have to sign. Don't worry, it is legal and most expats pay locals to type letters and documents for official uses. After having C's signature on the 'permission slip', I returned to the office and received my new license with no hang-ups. Ahhhh...the joys of living overseas! Just to let you in on a secret, it's not always as glamorous at it may seem.
Recently, my temporary driver's license expired. Remembering my trials with obtaining my temporary driver's license, I had an inkling that switching that to a permanent license could take many tries. I was right.
Knowing I would need some back-up in my attempt in getting my new license, I asked a friend of mine who has amazing language abilities and has lived in this region for nearly 10 years. She was brilliant in navigating me to the correct 'office' in order to pay someone to copy my official documents. Then we walked to another building to get a ticket to wait in a cue for a completely covered woman to help us. Our number came up and my friend explained to her what I needed. She looked through all of my papers as I could feel my faced getting warm. Her eyes focused on mine as she asked in broken English, "Where is your husbands' letter of permission?" "Excuse me?", I asked. She repeated her question and I asked for clarification in what she needed. In order for any woman in this country to obtain a driver's license, she must have a letter for her 'sponsor'. That could mean your father, if you are not married, or your husband, if you are. It's as if you are not truly a contributing member of society unless you are male. If you are female, you are subject to be just that--subject to men. Before walking away from the counter, without my permanent license, the clerk told me that I would need a letter typed in the local language from my husband claiming I had his permission to drive.
Humph! My emotions were mixed. I didn't know if I should laugh, cry, or scream in frustration. I opted for laughing as the other two responses would not help the situation. I immediately called C and explained the situation. Then my friend and I walked to another building and paid a man to type a letter in the local language that C would have to sign. Don't worry, it is legal and most expats pay locals to type letters and documents for official uses. After having C's signature on the 'permission slip', I returned to the office and received my new license with no hang-ups. Ahhhh...the joys of living overseas! Just to let you in on a secret, it's not always as glamorous at it may seem.
All I wanted was Diet A&W Rootbeer
Strange how you don't know you truly miss something until you find it staring you in the face. This past Tuesday was my birthday and I stumbled upon a treat for myself at the corner market--Diet A&W Rootbeer! I used to love drinking it and have not even seen regular A&W on any shelves in this country. So when I saw it, I grabbed it and deemed it my very own birthday treat. I paid for that and a few other items and headed home. As you might guess--it tasted great with my sandwich and soup lunch.
The next day, I finished teaching the Conversation English class and decided to see if my little treat was still at the corner market. To my delight it was! YEAH! I snatched another A&W and headed to the counter along with a small bundle of fresh spinach. When the man quoted the price as 6.50, I was shocked and I'm sure my facial expression showed it. I asked the man to repeat the price, because surely I had not heard him correctly. Usually a can of coke (or soda, or pop, or whatever you call it!) costs about 1.00. I knew the spinach was only 3.00 and there was no way ONE can of Diet A&W Rootbeer could cost 3.50. The man quoted the same price and then kindly pointed out to me that I was wanting to buy 'beer'. All 'beer' or alcoholic beverages are marked up an automatic 18%. I tried to explain to him that A&W Rootbeer was not truly 'beer' or an 'alcoholic' beverage. The clerk proudly walked from behind the tiny counter and to the cold drink section and pulled out two 'beer' beverages that had the word 'beer' on the can. He placed the two cans next to my A&W and pointed out that all three of them had the word 'beer' in it. He would not budge on the price due to his clever evidence. I sighed in disgust and disbelief and resigned myself to purchasing only the bag of spinach.
I suppose I will have to wait until next December 4th to treat myself to another Diet A&W Rootbeer. This is when language barrier and cultural differences truly want to make me pull my hair out!
A quick note to friends and family: thanks so much for emailing and calling me this past Tuesday. Your words of encouragement and friendship were a blessing. C treated me like a Queen and gave me cards, text messages, gifts, and a fancy Italian dinner---best of all he has given me his love, support, and daily deepening friendship.
The next day, I finished teaching the Conversation English class and decided to see if my little treat was still at the corner market. To my delight it was! YEAH! I snatched another A&W and headed to the counter along with a small bundle of fresh spinach. When the man quoted the price as 6.50, I was shocked and I'm sure my facial expression showed it. I asked the man to repeat the price, because surely I had not heard him correctly. Usually a can of coke (or soda, or pop, or whatever you call it!) costs about 1.00. I knew the spinach was only 3.00 and there was no way ONE can of Diet A&W Rootbeer could cost 3.50. The man quoted the same price and then kindly pointed out to me that I was wanting to buy 'beer'. All 'beer' or alcoholic beverages are marked up an automatic 18%. I tried to explain to him that A&W Rootbeer was not truly 'beer' or an 'alcoholic' beverage. The clerk proudly walked from behind the tiny counter and to the cold drink section and pulled out two 'beer' beverages that had the word 'beer' on the can. He placed the two cans next to my A&W and pointed out that all three of them had the word 'beer' in it. He would not budge on the price due to his clever evidence. I sighed in disgust and disbelief and resigned myself to purchasing only the bag of spinach.
I suppose I will have to wait until next December 4th to treat myself to another Diet A&W Rootbeer. This is when language barrier and cultural differences truly want to make me pull my hair out!
A quick note to friends and family: thanks so much for emailing and calling me this past Tuesday. Your words of encouragement and friendship were a blessing. C treated me like a Queen and gave me cards, text messages, gifts, and a fancy Italian dinner---best of all he has given me his love, support, and daily deepening friendship.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Celebrating the Season in the Sand
I've wondered what the "Christmas Season" would be like in our new land--seeing as the country does not officially celebrate the holiday. To my surprise, there a few stores that have a 'mini' section for Christmas decorations and gifts. It's nothing like C&I have experienced in the States. But it's not all bad. No "Black Friday" shopping. No Christmas rush in stores or long lines for mall parking spots. We don't even have to worry about icy or snowy weather. In fact, as I'm typing this blog, I'm sitting comfortably in my orange chair (no--I did not pick out my own furniture) with the windows open enjoying the cooler air. The high for today happens to be 84. That might sound high to the majority of readers, but 84 is about 30 degrees COOLER than when we first arrived in this desert land.
I suppose what we DO have for Christmas is a reason to celebrate. We do have a cause to make us pause and give praise for the most amazing grace gift ever offered. While we may not have many 'things' here, our reason for celebrating during the holidays does not change. We are humbled even more by His gift to us as we watch how His love is ignored and pushed aside within this region. His written word is considered an invalid tampered-with historical document. Those who chose to accept His grace and mercy also make a choice to abandon a life they currently know and understand. Yet, He continues to pour out Himself for all peoples and nations. Now that is love. To continuing giving when few seem willing to receive what is freely given.
The other day I helped a friend sale Jordanian handicrafts at a Christmas fair. Before the afternoon of festivities began, Santa Claus had to make his grand entrance. Did he come in on a sleigh with reindeer leading the way? No...see for yourself! Boys and girls, now we know how children who live in this part of the world receive their gifts from Santa. He stops by their homes while riding on his trusty camel, Abu.
C called an hour ago to say that he just found out that he WILL have Christmas day off! I'm so thankful. He will have the week prior to Christmas off due to the Eid Holiday. What? Two Eid Holidays in one year? Yes. The first Eid follows the end of Ramadan. The second Eid comes approximately 6-8 weeks later. This is the time of year when lambs are sold for slaughter in atonement for their sins. It is also a reminder of what their Father Abraham did for his son--Ishmael. Sound familiar to anyone? s
Points to Ponder:
-C...teachers, you know better than anyone else how to lift up C and his work. Not only is it his first year teaching, he is working with a large numbers of students who do not converse easily in English. He continues to pour into all students, no matter the barriers.
-E...throwing a Christmas party for local and expat women this month. Ladies I've met are being invited to our home for one evening. To my knowledge, none of them haver ever been to a Christmas Party and most of them are curious and excited about coming. Several expat ladies will be joining me as well.
-C/E..thankful for 6 months of marriage, family & friend encouragements, and care packages from family!
-C--thankful that OU beat Missouri (couldn't resist typing that one in for C and all Sooner fans!)
- Thankful--for the physical healing of many manual labor workers in one night. Truly miraculous to hear how the Father poured out His healing and power for those in need.
I suppose what we DO have for Christmas is a reason to celebrate. We do have a cause to make us pause and give praise for the most amazing grace gift ever offered. While we may not have many 'things' here, our reason for celebrating during the holidays does not change. We are humbled even more by His gift to us as we watch how His love is ignored and pushed aside within this region. His written word is considered an invalid tampered-with historical document. Those who chose to accept His grace and mercy also make a choice to abandon a life they currently know and understand. Yet, He continues to pour out Himself for all peoples and nations. Now that is love. To continuing giving when few seem willing to receive what is freely given.
The other day I helped a friend sale Jordanian handicrafts at a Christmas fair. Before the afternoon of festivities began, Santa Claus had to make his grand entrance. Did he come in on a sleigh with reindeer leading the way? No...see for yourself! Boys and girls, now we know how children who live in this part of the world receive their gifts from Santa. He stops by their homes while riding on his trusty camel, Abu.
C called an hour ago to say that he just found out that he WILL have Christmas day off! I'm so thankful. He will have the week prior to Christmas off due to the Eid Holiday. What? Two Eid Holidays in one year? Yes. The first Eid follows the end of Ramadan. The second Eid comes approximately 6-8 weeks later. This is the time of year when lambs are sold for slaughter in atonement for their sins. It is also a reminder of what their Father Abraham did for his son--Ishmael. Sound familiar to anyone? s
Points to Ponder:
-C...teachers, you know better than anyone else how to lift up C and his work. Not only is it his first year teaching, he is working with a large numbers of students who do not converse easily in English. He continues to pour into all students, no matter the barriers.
-E...throwing a Christmas party for local and expat women this month. Ladies I've met are being invited to our home for one evening. To my knowledge, none of them haver ever been to a Christmas Party and most of them are curious and excited about coming. Several expat ladies will be joining me as well.
-C/E..thankful for 6 months of marriage, family & friend encouragements, and care packages from family!
-C--thankful that OU beat Missouri (couldn't resist typing that one in for C and all Sooner fans!)
- Thankful--for the physical healing of many manual labor workers in one night. Truly miraculous to hear how the Father poured out His healing and power for those in need.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Green Thumb Alert!
Years ago I was astonished when my brother, Andy, led me on a mini tour of his garden. He had everything from tomatoes to canteloupe and even some corn stalks. For added flavor, Andy planted an herb garden for cooking. A few years later, I visited my sister, Rachel, and she, too, had gotten the garden bug and hard cultivated her own variety of veggies. Why is this so astonishing? We had never grown anything as children expect weeds in our backyard. Okay, we had a blackberry bush, but is a wild one that grew along our back fence! To watch them become animated with their garden tales is always enjoyable--and I always have to take a tour to inspect their home-grown goods. I do admit that home-grown always taste better than store bought.
Well...now it's my turn! The other day a dear friend gave me seeds for tomatoes, green peppers, chili peppers & jalepenos (for C!), and a variety of herbs. It took nearly 2 hours to plant the seeds in pots and clean up the mess on my balcony. Oh, have I mentioned that we live on the 5th floor? Anything I 'plant' can only grow in a pot. As I studied the back of each seed packet I was struck by the length of time it took to germinate such a small seed. Most of which is only 3 weeks. From that point on, it will take several more weeks before the plant grows and within a few months I should be picking treats from my very own balcony garden.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if everything in life was just like planting a garden? One of my favorite books of poetry talks about 'cultivating faithfulness'. Only with great patience and waiting will I have the time needed to cultivate faithfulness. A friend of mine was heading back to the States and was going to have the opportunity to speak with others about her life in this part of the world. It was disheartening to hear how discouraging those at home can be...most without realizing it. Questions that pertain to amount of fruit and vegetables is not an easy questions for those who live within this hemisphere. Cultivation and germination is not a mere 3 weeks and harvest is rarely within 3 months. For many in this part of the world, the call of cultivation is a call to surrender to time, schedules, and to status quo demands. A Farmer's Almanac does not exist for what we have been asked to do. It's a call to surrender to timing not known to us, but Praise Him! It IS known by our Father.
How is your cultivation going this season? Ask the Father where He wants you to plant His love, His grace, and His forgiveness within the soil around you.
Well...now it's my turn! The other day a dear friend gave me seeds for tomatoes, green peppers, chili peppers & jalepenos (for C!), and a variety of herbs. It took nearly 2 hours to plant the seeds in pots and clean up the mess on my balcony. Oh, have I mentioned that we live on the 5th floor? Anything I 'plant' can only grow in a pot. As I studied the back of each seed packet I was struck by the length of time it took to germinate such a small seed. Most of which is only 3 weeks. From that point on, it will take several more weeks before the plant grows and within a few months I should be picking treats from my very own balcony garden.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if everything in life was just like planting a garden? One of my favorite books of poetry talks about 'cultivating faithfulness'. Only with great patience and waiting will I have the time needed to cultivate faithfulness. A friend of mine was heading back to the States and was going to have the opportunity to speak with others about her life in this part of the world. It was disheartening to hear how discouraging those at home can be...most without realizing it. Questions that pertain to amount of fruit and vegetables is not an easy questions for those who live within this hemisphere. Cultivation and germination is not a mere 3 weeks and harvest is rarely within 3 months. For many in this part of the world, the call of cultivation is a call to surrender to time, schedules, and to status quo demands. A Farmer's Almanac does not exist for what we have been asked to do. It's a call to surrender to timing not known to us, but Praise Him! It IS known by our Father.
How is your cultivation going this season? Ask the Father where He wants you to plant His love, His grace, and His forgiveness within the soil around you.
Thankful for Thanksgiving
Have you ever experienced Thanksgiving in a different country? Or invited someone from a different country to your home for Thanksgiving? C and I celebrated Thanksgiving in a few different ways. For the past month, C has had visiting students from Africa in his classroom. Seeing as they were far from home, he made them all (that's SEVENTEEN teenage boys) chocolate chip cookies. They were very grateful and a few of them had eaten their small bag of cookies before leaving the classroom. (Note: I'm thankful he let me have one hot from the oven!)
I've been teaching at a language center and chose to make pumpkin bread for the ladies I teach as well as though who work at the center. They had never had it before and wanted to know if I had cut up and boiled my own pumpkin in order to make the bread. What a glorious moment to impart on my new friends the wonderful world of canned foods. The executive at Libby's (for Libby's Pumpkin) should be given a raise! Of course these ladies wanted to know if maybe my grandma didn't show me how to use real pumpkin. I let them know that I had one grandma who grew up in the city and one who grew up on a farm and I had never seen either one of them use anything other than Libby's pumpkin mix.
Of course, not everything is as easy over here when it comes to baking for special occasions. Pecan pie is an expensive treat seeing as 1 kilo or 2.2 pounds of pecans will cost nearly $30 USD. Thankfully I bought a few bags before leaving the States. I won't even go into how thankful I am for Jiffy and Shawnee Mills Cornbread! Boxed breads are hard to find and the price is quite high when you do find them. I used my last Jiffy cornbread mix last night to go with our chili. It's the little things in life that bring the comforts of home anywhere in the world. We will have to stock up on those goodies next summer while in the States.
Our Thanksgiving evening was spent with friends from America, England, Canada, India, and South Africa. Quite a mix! After two long days of cooking (pumpkin bread, pecan pie, cornbread dressing, German chocolate cake), I nearly fell asleep on our friends couch after feasting on our evening meal. C&I cut the evening short and headed home to call family and friends. With a 9 or 10 hour time difference, calling can be tricky at times. We are thankful for those of you we could speak with and for those we could not--HAPPY LATE THANKSGIVING!
I've been teaching at a language center and chose to make pumpkin bread for the ladies I teach as well as though who work at the center. They had never had it before and wanted to know if I had cut up and boiled my own pumpkin in order to make the bread. What a glorious moment to impart on my new friends the wonderful world of canned foods. The executive at Libby's (for Libby's Pumpkin) should be given a raise! Of course these ladies wanted to know if maybe my grandma didn't show me how to use real pumpkin. I let them know that I had one grandma who grew up in the city and one who grew up on a farm and I had never seen either one of them use anything other than Libby's pumpkin mix.
Of course, not everything is as easy over here when it comes to baking for special occasions. Pecan pie is an expensive treat seeing as 1 kilo or 2.2 pounds of pecans will cost nearly $30 USD. Thankfully I bought a few bags before leaving the States. I won't even go into how thankful I am for Jiffy and Shawnee Mills Cornbread! Boxed breads are hard to find and the price is quite high when you do find them. I used my last Jiffy cornbread mix last night to go with our chili. It's the little things in life that bring the comforts of home anywhere in the world. We will have to stock up on those goodies next summer while in the States.
Our Thanksgiving evening was spent with friends from America, England, Canada, India, and South Africa. Quite a mix! After two long days of cooking (pumpkin bread, pecan pie, cornbread dressing, German chocolate cake), I nearly fell asleep on our friends couch after feasting on our evening meal. C&I cut the evening short and headed home to call family and friends. With a 9 or 10 hour time difference, calling can be tricky at times. We are thankful for those of you we could speak with and for those we could not--HAPPY LATE THANKSGIVING!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
One Year Ago Today...
It's been exactly one year since a dear friend, Dr. Kim B. walked into my office and proclaimed that he had the 'Man' for me. HA! I didn't believe him until he pulled out his cell phone and dialed Mr. Man. To my horror, he answered. This is exactly what Dr. Kim said, "C, I'm sitting here with your future wife, you need to get to this city and meet her." In the meantime I had slunk off of the couch and was completely red with embaressment. If you don't believe me, call Tanya R.--she witnessed it all.
To everyone who has been ultra supportive through words, actions, and thoughts, we can not thank you enough. Most of all we would like to give praise to our Father for bringing us together at just the right time in both of our lives. We learn more of one another (and our differences) each day. Much laughter is heard through our walls as well as loud music and the smell of good Mexican food escapes through our windows countless nights each month. We are daily being stretched in so many areas that most days we collapse from exhaustion. The only thing we both know today that we knew one year ago is our Father and his love for us. All else has changed in our lives. I need a day at the spa like never before!
Today I'll be leaving for another country and will be meeting with many new friends. Please ask for protection for both C and I as we are away from one another for 4 days. Also ask for discernment and wisdom as I make connections with those that I meet between now an Saturday. We covet your conversations with our Father. It is for Him that we have chosen to live and serve where we do and we honestly could not imagine being anywhere else.
The two pictures were taken the other night when C and I took a walk down by the water. As we walked quietly steeped in our own thoughts, a group of SE Asian men stopped and asked if C would take a picture with them. Random! We couldn't resist, so we took a couple of snaps with them and continued on our way. The man on a jet ski gives you an idea of some of the water sports in this area. I haven't been on one yet---but it will happen in due time.
Points to Ponder:
C- 4 days without E...relaxations, deep times with the Father, and new ideas for his classroom
E- traveling for 4 days; insight, wisdom, open mind/heart to learn
E- begins tutoring a college student next week; ask the Father for 4 more women to sign up for morning class so we can begin...the center needs 8 to make the class
To everyone who has been ultra supportive through words, actions, and thoughts, we can not thank you enough. Most of all we would like to give praise to our Father for bringing us together at just the right time in both of our lives. We learn more of one another (and our differences) each day. Much laughter is heard through our walls as well as loud music and the smell of good Mexican food escapes through our windows countless nights each month. We are daily being stretched in so many areas that most days we collapse from exhaustion. The only thing we both know today that we knew one year ago is our Father and his love for us. All else has changed in our lives. I need a day at the spa like never before!
Today I'll be leaving for another country and will be meeting with many new friends. Please ask for protection for both C and I as we are away from one another for 4 days. Also ask for discernment and wisdom as I make connections with those that I meet between now an Saturday. We covet your conversations with our Father. It is for Him that we have chosen to live and serve where we do and we honestly could not imagine being anywhere else.
The two pictures were taken the other night when C and I took a walk down by the water. As we walked quietly steeped in our own thoughts, a group of SE Asian men stopped and asked if C would take a picture with them. Random! We couldn't resist, so we took a couple of snaps with them and continued on our way. The man on a jet ski gives you an idea of some of the water sports in this area. I haven't been on one yet---but it will happen in due time.
Points to Ponder:
C- 4 days without E...relaxations, deep times with the Father, and new ideas for his classroom
E- traveling for 4 days; insight, wisdom, open mind/heart to learn
E- begins tutoring a college student next week; ask the Father for 4 more women to sign up for morning class so we can begin...the center needs 8 to make the class
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Sunsets
The beauty of the setting sun in soothing and peaceful. One hue fades into another as the light slips into darkness. The darkness calls out to stars which answer with their billiant light. Upon glancing up, I am gently reminded by the desert night's sky of the promise made to a man centuries ago in this very region. A promise that continues to be fulfilled through the lives of all who are willing to count the cost of obedience. As I strained my eyes at the scene set before me, I realized attempting to count the stars would be futile. My thoughts were full of praise as I dug my toes into the thousands of grains of sand and sang out while gazing at the stars He threw out to us as a visual reminder of His promise.
Desert Duning
A favorite past-time for most expats and locals alike is desert duning. This requires a 4wd/SUV, seatbelts, dramamine (for those who suffer from motion sickness), and whit at the wheel. We inaugurated our baby Nativa into the sand during the Eid holiday by driving out into the desert. A caravan of 10 cars filled with 50+ people took off into the desert for an hour long drive over dunes and paths paved by the brave duners who had gone before us. Our destination? An inland sea which creates a natural border between this country and our neighbor. Once we had driven for an hour on the highway, all SUV's pulled off of the road to release air pressure in the tires (down to 18-20psi) and all the women of course took the chance to use the last available 'facilities' for the day. After that, we went off road...as in no map, no road, only the trails in the sand were our guide to our desired destination.
C did an excellent job handling the dunes and even got gutsy towards the end. I just held on to the handles and screamed at each peak before sailing down the other side. We commented in the car as to which family members would enjoy it or hate it the most. Carl, Andy, Jason, Dale, and Dad...you made the cut for driving and absolutely loving it! I don't think Jason would ever leave the dunes if we got him out here. Come out and try it anytime...we would love to see you. As you can see Rachel, Camella, Steva, Denise and GG (Glenda Grace)...you all made the cut for "just get to me the beach in one piece".
Once we all set up camp, the kids and some adults went swimming. Others lounged in the beach chairs or threw the frisbee around. Sunset came around 5:00pm and the bonfire began. Some people went all out with their dinners. One family brought marinated steaks and potatoes and another brought a charcoal grill (with side boards) and grilled up chicken, burgers, and fresh garlic bread. C and I went the easy route and had a package of local turkey franks (of various lengths), bbq sauce and buns. We borrowed skewers and enjoyed our meal or hot dogs and chips as others labored over elaborate meals. However, I must admit that I loved the tea kettle one family brought to make fresh mint tea over the fire.
After s'mores and songs around the campfire, we began packing up to leave and C & I almost took home our first pet...a field mouse. C noticed it scurrying over to our cooler and I admit that I screamed a little. Okay it was a lot! We moved the cooler, but it then scurried under our beach mat. It didn't help matters when a mob of children began trying to catch the mouse. Needless to say, the field mouse did NOT make it to the city this time.
Driving back to the city was an adventure because we were being led only by the moon and the tracks in the sand. Thankfully, the lead car had an experienced desert duner at the wheel and we were all led back to civilization after 30 minutes of careful navigation. Our first duning excursion was a success and we will be heading out several more times this season.
Speaking of season...we are happy to share that we are now in the low-mid 90's each day as opposed to 100-115 each day. There is even a chance of an 89 later this week!
What's up next for Mr. and Mrs.?
--C is back on schedule at the academy; 8th - 10th grade boys; 9 classes each week; 9am-5pm each day
--C is developing more relationships with teachers and students
--C is still waiting to watch his first OU game of the season...
--E will be traveling next week for 4 days; keep them both in your thoughts
--E will hopefully begin tutoring a junior high student as well as a group of local women
--E has auditioned for a role in an upcoming theater production of "The King and I"...results later this week
Counting the Cost
Here is a brief idea of what the 'cost of living' is in our part of the world:
-gas = $0.21 USD per LITER
-phone calls to US = $0.50 per minute
-filtered water for home = $3.30 per water jug delivered (we use 2-3 per week)
-electric company deposit = $550
-movie ticket at a VERY nice theater = $8.00
-fresh CARAMEL popcorn at movie theater = $1.91
-fresh loaf of bread from bakery = $1.91
-men's hair cut at "Men's Saloon" = $5.50
-four chicken breast at market = $5.50 - $8.00 (depends on what is available)
-box of name brand cereal = $5.50 - $8.00
-pint of name brand ice-cream in store = $7.00 - $8.00
-pecans in shell = $26.00 per kilo or $11.18 per pound
-red/yellow bell peppers per kilo = $7.12
-small can of diced green chillies = $3.80
-1/4 kilo of deli lunch meat = $7.40
-1/4 kilo of deli sliced cheese = $4.10
-Starbuck's Caramel Machiatto = $4.65
-Out to dinner for 2 = $17.00 (ave for local food) ; $27.00 (ave for american food)
-full-time housemaid for one month (40 hour work week)= $275 per month...not a misprint
-one month (2x per week) of car washes by our apartment security guard = $13.69 per month (a luxory I'm more than willing to pay!)
-one year of schooling at local private school (ave) = $10,000 per child (kindergarten - grade 12)
-fine for running red light = $1000 USD...not a misprint
-tax on any alchoholic beverage = 18%...typically only westerners buy alchohol in this region/ forbidden to locals
*This country does not use 'change' on a regular basis. In fact we have been given small boxes of 'chicklets' or small candy bars instead of recieving the .25, .50. or .75 in return. I did hear of a local woman who received several boxes of 'chicklets' instead of change. She then returned to the store and PAID for some items with her boxes of 'chicklets'. I'd better start saving my candy bars and chicklets. Imagine what I could buy with a KING SNICKERS bar!
-gas = $0.21 USD per LITER
-phone calls to US = $0.50 per minute
-filtered water for home = $3.30 per water jug delivered (we use 2-3 per week)
-electric company deposit = $550
-movie ticket at a VERY nice theater = $8.00
-fresh CARAMEL popcorn at movie theater = $1.91
-fresh loaf of bread from bakery = $1.91
-men's hair cut at "Men's Saloon" = $5.50
-four chicken breast at market = $5.50 - $8.00 (depends on what is available)
-box of name brand cereal = $5.50 - $8.00
-pint of name brand ice-cream in store = $7.00 - $8.00
-pecans in shell = $26.00 per kilo or $11.18 per pound
-red/yellow bell peppers per kilo = $7.12
-small can of diced green chillies = $3.80
-1/4 kilo of deli lunch meat = $7.40
-1/4 kilo of deli sliced cheese = $4.10
-Starbuck's Caramel Machiatto = $4.65
-Out to dinner for 2 = $17.00 (ave for local food) ; $27.00 (ave for american food)
-full-time housemaid for one month (40 hour work week)= $275 per month...not a misprint
-one month (2x per week) of car washes by our apartment security guard = $13.69 per month (a luxory I'm more than willing to pay!)
-one year of schooling at local private school (ave) = $10,000 per child (kindergarten - grade 12)
-fine for running red light = $1000 USD...not a misprint
-tax on any alchoholic beverage = 18%...typically only westerners buy alchohol in this region/ forbidden to locals
*This country does not use 'change' on a regular basis. In fact we have been given small boxes of 'chicklets' or small candy bars instead of recieving the .25, .50. or .75 in return. I did hear of a local woman who received several boxes of 'chicklets' instead of change. She then returned to the store and PAID for some items with her boxes of 'chicklets'. I'd better start saving my candy bars and chicklets. Imagine what I could buy with a KING SNICKERS bar!
More Living Abroad Quirks
Friends living abroad have commented on my brief list of quirks about overseas living. Since then a few more things have been brought to my attention:
--only nationals may legally own a vehicle with a 'bed' in the back (ie. a TRUCK)...this was sad news for Mr. Man seeing as he loved his old truck in the US
--you can always tell when a national has purchased a vehicle because they leave the plastic protective covering ON the seats for months. This reminds me of the performer Minnie Pearl who used to leave the tags on her hats. We received strange looks from the car dealership when when I began ripping the plastic OFF of the seats as soon as they brought the car around to us.
--driving through the security gate of one compound there is a sign warning drivers of what they might encounter..."DEAD SLOW CHILDREN PLAYING"
--a school has their name boldly painted in blue letters on a bus "PILIPINO SCHOOL" (guess the painter did not use spell check)
--If you would like to get your hair cut, make an appointment at either the "Men's Saloon"; "Women's Hair Saloon" or the "Children's Saloon". All those under 21 will be carded before receiving their shampoo and trim.
--our home phone line was installed, but only in ONE room...if you would like to have a phone line throughout the home, you must indicate as such and have a technician come and connect the wires for EACH room. Of course this was not explained to us by the man who could not speak English who came to our apartment. Guess what cue I'll be standing in this week. :)
--when you ask a person from this region "would you like a _______(fill in the blanks with whatever you like)" the way in which they say 'no' is by simply saying, "thank you" and nodding their head 'yes'. This is quite confusing for my southern upbringing where "thank you" typically means 'yes' and nodding your head up and down indicates 'yes'. Not so in this world.
...stay tuned for more living abroad quirks in the months to come
--only nationals may legally own a vehicle with a 'bed' in the back (ie. a TRUCK)...this was sad news for Mr. Man seeing as he loved his old truck in the US
--you can always tell when a national has purchased a vehicle because they leave the plastic protective covering ON the seats for months. This reminds me of the performer Minnie Pearl who used to leave the tags on her hats. We received strange looks from the car dealership when when I began ripping the plastic OFF of the seats as soon as they brought the car around to us.
--driving through the security gate of one compound there is a sign warning drivers of what they might encounter..."DEAD SLOW CHILDREN PLAYING"
--a school has their name boldly painted in blue letters on a bus "PILIPINO SCHOOL" (guess the painter did not use spell check)
--If you would like to get your hair cut, make an appointment at either the "Men's Saloon"; "Women's Hair Saloon" or the "Children's Saloon". All those under 21 will be carded before receiving their shampoo and trim.
--our home phone line was installed, but only in ONE room...if you would like to have a phone line throughout the home, you must indicate as such and have a technician come and connect the wires for EACH room. Of course this was not explained to us by the man who could not speak English who came to our apartment. Guess what cue I'll be standing in this week. :)
--when you ask a person from this region "would you like a _______(fill in the blanks with whatever you like)" the way in which they say 'no' is by simply saying, "thank you" and nodding their head 'yes'. This is quite confusing for my southern upbringing where "thank you" typically means 'yes' and nodding your head up and down indicates 'yes'. Not so in this world.
...stay tuned for more living abroad quirks in the months to come
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Eye-witness
Living in new lands brings about new experiences in sight, sounds, and of course...smell. Clearly we cannot have each of you smell the salty sea or breathe in the sandy air which C&E encounter each day. However, we can do our very best in giving you glimpses of what they have seen or ideas of what they have heard. The following is a list compiled of daily life scenes and sounds of C&E's new surroundings. (On a side note: they have now been married FOUR months!)
Sounds:
-cars honking a nano second after instersection lights change from red to green...it doesn't matter if the car is 20th in line!
-call to prayer from the mosque that is only one block from our flat...we hear this 5 times a day beginning at 4am. Don't kid yourself-it's loud enough to wake you up in the middle of the night.
-languages from around the world..German, French, Spanish, Arabic, Farsi, Mayalayam (for the Thomas family!), Hindi, Urdu, Korean, Chinese, Italian, Russian, etc. Pick any language and you will more than likely hear it sometime throughout the day. That doesn't include the different dialects of English--American, Australian, British, Irish, Scottish, New Zealand (the Kiwi's) and South African.
-kids laughing at the malls
-songs to our Father during Friday fellowship
-BBC, EuroNews, and Al Jazeera TV
-E playing the piano for fellowship gatherings
-clothes washer going at least once a day
-the work crew working by 6am at the new apartment building going up next door
-students talking in C's class
Scenes:
-sand
-building workers wearing no hard hats and flip flops on contruction sites (in some cases)
- contruction on many major thourough fares
-new sky scrapers in the downtown area
-people of all ages talking on mobile phones
-new apartment buildings contructed in many areas
-mulitple Land Cruisers at intersections
-roundabouts :)
-the other night at one of the many malls, we saw 3 Lambourgines and one Bentley in less than an hour
-women completely covered
-men dressed in the traditional white robes, called a thobe, and a head covering; it in prestigious to wear the national dress and even little boys at the malls are seen wearing it
-more sand
-American restuarants...seriously, I've never seen more Baskin Robbins in one city in my entire life!
-fresh bread stores
-long lines at any offical place you visit (phone company, bank, electric/water, etc.)
-large mosques, small mosques, and what I call "mini-mosques". The mini is set up in new developement areas and is similar to a portable school room building. A loud speaker is attached on the outside and a 'steeple' point is on top to signify it as a mosque.
- The Red Crescent as opposed to the Red Cross
-ice skating rinks
-motor cycles weaving in between traffic and horrific speeds
-futbol matches (soccer games)
-fellowship times with 250 + people
-the sun--everyday all day beginning at 5:15am and setting in the evenings around 5:30pm
-something we have NOT seen much of: CAR SEATS! Little babies in the front seat with NO seat belt or safety seat
-Land Cruisers cutting you off at all intersections without even a nod from the driver.
-sand...everywhere you can imagine
-most buildings and business closed by 12:30 or 1:00pm for Ramadan. Everything remains closed (including banks, restaruants, businesses, grocery stores, etc.) until approx 7p or 8p each night. This will change once Ramadan ends in mid-October
-waterfront lined with buildings, boat docks, and restaurants
-people from all nations
-large villas
-our couches covered in orange material against our pale yellow/cream painted walls. OUCH! This will change in time. :)
-sheets from the US that don't fit the 180cm x 200cm mattresses
-cramped workers camps
-a maid's quarter in a home is about the size of a large walk-in closet in the US.
-turkey 'strips' at the local markets as opposed to turkey 'bacon'
-Ramadan reminders not to eat or drink anything in public....it's agains the law during the month of fasting. Don't worry, we can eat all we want in homes at any time of the day.
Quick blessings to pass along:
-we will get a phone line in mid-October (yes...it takes that long)
-we should get a vehicle this week
-a family moving out of the country gave us 5 bags FULL of spices and mixes for our kitchen. Oddly enough, it's equivalent to the food we left to friends back in the States.
-C has been asked by students to attend a few futbol matches
-C's grandma has fallen asleep in this world to awaken with her Father...she's healed and completely whole before the Father.
-E has been asked to tutor local children after Ramadan and possibly teach a small conversation class of local women twice a week.
Sounds:
-cars honking a nano second after instersection lights change from red to green...it doesn't matter if the car is 20th in line!
-call to prayer from the mosque that is only one block from our flat...we hear this 5 times a day beginning at 4am. Don't kid yourself-it's loud enough to wake you up in the middle of the night.
-languages from around the world..German, French, Spanish, Arabic, Farsi, Mayalayam (for the Thomas family!), Hindi, Urdu, Korean, Chinese, Italian, Russian, etc. Pick any language and you will more than likely hear it sometime throughout the day. That doesn't include the different dialects of English--American, Australian, British, Irish, Scottish, New Zealand (the Kiwi's) and South African.
-kids laughing at the malls
-songs to our Father during Friday fellowship
-BBC, EuroNews, and Al Jazeera TV
-E playing the piano for fellowship gatherings
-clothes washer going at least once a day
-the work crew working by 6am at the new apartment building going up next door
-students talking in C's class
Scenes:
-sand
-building workers wearing no hard hats and flip flops on contruction sites (in some cases)
- contruction on many major thourough fares
-new sky scrapers in the downtown area
-people of all ages talking on mobile phones
-new apartment buildings contructed in many areas
-mulitple Land Cruisers at intersections
-roundabouts :)
-the other night at one of the many malls, we saw 3 Lambourgines and one Bentley in less than an hour
-women completely covered
-men dressed in the traditional white robes, called a thobe, and a head covering; it in prestigious to wear the national dress and even little boys at the malls are seen wearing it
-more sand
-American restuarants...seriously, I've never seen more Baskin Robbins in one city in my entire life!
-fresh bread stores
-long lines at any offical place you visit (phone company, bank, electric/water, etc.)
-large mosques, small mosques, and what I call "mini-mosques". The mini is set up in new developement areas and is similar to a portable school room building. A loud speaker is attached on the outside and a 'steeple' point is on top to signify it as a mosque.
- The Red Crescent as opposed to the Red Cross
-ice skating rinks
-motor cycles weaving in between traffic and horrific speeds
-futbol matches (soccer games)
-fellowship times with 250 + people
-the sun--everyday all day beginning at 5:15am and setting in the evenings around 5:30pm
-something we have NOT seen much of: CAR SEATS! Little babies in the front seat with NO seat belt or safety seat
-Land Cruisers cutting you off at all intersections without even a nod from the driver.
-sand...everywhere you can imagine
-most buildings and business closed by 12:30 or 1:00pm for Ramadan. Everything remains closed (including banks, restaruants, businesses, grocery stores, etc.) until approx 7p or 8p each night. This will change once Ramadan ends in mid-October
-waterfront lined with buildings, boat docks, and restaurants
-people from all nations
-large villas
-our couches covered in orange material against our pale yellow/cream painted walls. OUCH! This will change in time. :)
-sheets from the US that don't fit the 180cm x 200cm mattresses
-cramped workers camps
-a maid's quarter in a home is about the size of a large walk-in closet in the US.
-turkey 'strips' at the local markets as opposed to turkey 'bacon'
-Ramadan reminders not to eat or drink anything in public....it's agains the law during the month of fasting. Don't worry, we can eat all we want in homes at any time of the day.
Quick blessings to pass along:
-we will get a phone line in mid-October (yes...it takes that long)
-we should get a vehicle this week
-a family moving out of the country gave us 5 bags FULL of spices and mixes for our kitchen. Oddly enough, it's equivalent to the food we left to friends back in the States.
-C has been asked by students to attend a few futbol matches
-C's grandma has fallen asleep in this world to awaken with her Father...she's healed and completely whole before the Father.
-E has been asked to tutor local children after Ramadan and possibly teach a small conversation class of local women twice a week.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Pearl of Great Price
Enjoy the view of C&E's new downtown area. The sunsets paint a new expression each evening and they were able to capture just one. All of the pictures were taken just as the sun was setting on the city. Notice that there is a Chili's and a Dairy Queen in this city. Now they are closer to a "Blizzard" than when they were living in the States.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Wednesday is More than Half
For the majority of the Lopez Living readers, Wednesday is typically considered mid-week. Half down, half to go. Not in this part of the world. As C & E were in the car on the way to work, E realized that tomorrow is Thursday...which is the beginning of the weekend. C still has to work on Thursday, but he noticed last week that the majority of the teachers were gone by 2pm. Thursday night the city is packed with cars filled with people of all nations. People might head to the various malls and cinemas or over to a friend's home for a long evening meal. As of now, C & E do not have plans for their weekend, but it will more than likely include REST!
Since the last time the couple checked in with Lopez Living, they have found a flat! It's a 3 bedroom flat with 2 1/2 baths. The living room and bedrooms are very large, and so they swallow all of the provided furniture. The kitchen is decent, although they are asking for the clothes washer to be moved into the guest bathroom. That's actually typical in this part of the world for the clothes washer to be hooked up in the kitchen. The ovens, or 'cookers' as they are called here, are ones usually used in small condos in the States. The couple is looking into purchasing a new cooker before moving in. They can't actually move into the new flat until October 1st. No worries. They will not be staying at their cramped, but nice, hotel until that time. The real estate agent found them a nicely furnished 2 bedroom flat to move into until the 1st. With the help from an amazing couple, they were able to move in late Monday night.
The downside of the temporary housing is that it is a bit further from the academy than they would like and there is no telephone or Internet access. The phone is okay, because they both have mobile phones to communicate with one another and new friends. The Internet is a bummer for E because she has to go to Internet cafes or visit other homes for access. C has it everyday at work, so he is good to go!
Now from her own view point, here are some words from E:
--I am thankful that I have been in this part of the world several times before moving. If not, I would have probably pulled out all of my hair by now. It definitely takes patience and a 'manana' (or tomorrow) mentality to survive. Take for instance my temporary drivers license. A man from C's school took both he and I to the local Dept. of Transportation in order to fill out all of the proper paper work. This included submitting multiple passport photos and having the document typed in another language. Once all of that was done, I had to take an eye exam. Let's just say that I said a little prayer before going in because even with my glasses, I still have trouble seeing at times. After passing the exam we went to another location to turn in all of the stamped paperwork. Then we were thrown into a volley between two workers because neither one of them could (or maybe just would) read my driver's US license because it was in English. This women waved us off as if we were flies and said to come back tomorrow and maybe someone would be there to translate my driver's license into their language. Apparently, a native speaker has to translate on the official document my driver's license from English to their language. Nice. The man who drove us yesterday said that he would call sometime between 9am and 12pm today to take me. I'm not holding my breath.
Last week I ended up at one of the various malls for lunch. What's different about the Food Court in this part of the world is the "Ladies Section". Most public areas, including restaurants, sports clubs, and parks, have a section for women only. A very nice Persian restaurant adjacent to our hotel even had a separate entrance on the side for women. Women unescorted by men are usually found in the Ladies Section. That's where I ended up enjoying my lamb shwarma and mutable. Besides some Asian girls, I was the only one not completely covered. I felt kinda lonely until a precious little boy playing with a balloon tried to get me to play with him. I love it when the Father sends me a gentle reminder in the midst of awkward moments.
The local women completely cover their bodies in an abaya. Many of which or ornately designed with beading and sequence. These women are not hurting financially and even though they are completely covered, they are covered in style. The only part of their body which can be seen is their eyes. Some women even wear a thin black cloth covering their entire face. Unusual in other parts of the mslm world, but typical here. You might wonder what to do when you see one of these women walking towards you. I generally smile and make eye contact--when you can see their eyes. It's amazing to watch their eyes widen with my genuine contact with them. I would assume that many western women turn away or stare awkwardly at them as they pass in the malls and on the streets.
C has introduced me to many colleagues from the academy and I always remind myself not to stick out my hand like I typically would in the States. It is not appropriate for a man and woman to touch unless you are related. Therefore, our natural instinct of reaching out and shaking hands with a new person is offensive and culturally not acceptable. Now, if the man extends his hand first, then it's okay. But that is not very common.
I was doing good with this until C introduced me to a man who had been raised in the States, but has in the past decade moved his life and beliefs to this region. When I stuck out my hand he waved me off. Ouch! At first I was embarrassed by my cultural mistake, then I was ticked off because the guy was an American and should know better. Of course I would naturally shake the hand of another American! But, in the end, I'm a woman and what I think or believe in this region doesn't make a dent within the male dominated society.
Yesterday I spent 3 hours at a local Carrefour (found everywhere in this region) to purchase all the household items needed to set up house. After filling up my cart with only household items, I realized that I didn't have room for groceries. I paid for the items in my cart and then headed back into the store for the food items. For those of you in the South, I cracked up when I found several "Kroger" brand items. While shopping I ran into a mom with 2 kids who had just arrived from Houston. We both shared our arrival experiences and helped each other find a few items in the massive store. It's comforting to hear an accent so close to home.
I would like to say that I have the most amazing husband! Saturday I was sick...we are talking REAL sick. One of our new friends offered to drive us around to search for housing. There is a reason most people drive 4wd and SUV's here. Many times a paved road ends and you are required to create your own. So, each time that happened, my stomach churned just a wee bit more. By the time we decided to quit our search we took another roundabout and I had it. Don't worry, you are not going to read something gross! For the sake of young readers, I'll just say that I lost my lunch on the side of the road. C was right there holding me up and then washed off my feet. (note to self: do not wear flip flops while stomach is queasy.) He took care of me the rest of the day AND did all of our laundry at a friend's home. WOW! Much love to you Mr. Man!
Points to Ponder:
--C's students arrive on Sunday. Ask for quick memory with names/faces and that he will feel confident in the classroom.
--C's relationship with fellow teachers will continue to deepen.
--Thanks: great time of fellowship last Friday! Wonderful opportunities to plug in with like-minded people.
--Thanks: no driving accidents...continue to lift that up!
--E will discover more opportunities to meet women
--C&E: continue in their personal study time; work together in all situations; find favor in purchasing a vehicle at the end of the month.
PS--we do have pictures of the area and will get them up when possible
Since the last time the couple checked in with Lopez Living, they have found a flat! It's a 3 bedroom flat with 2 1/2 baths. The living room and bedrooms are very large, and so they swallow all of the provided furniture. The kitchen is decent, although they are asking for the clothes washer to be moved into the guest bathroom. That's actually typical in this part of the world for the clothes washer to be hooked up in the kitchen. The ovens, or 'cookers' as they are called here, are ones usually used in small condos in the States. The couple is looking into purchasing a new cooker before moving in. They can't actually move into the new flat until October 1st. No worries. They will not be staying at their cramped, but nice, hotel until that time. The real estate agent found them a nicely furnished 2 bedroom flat to move into until the 1st. With the help from an amazing couple, they were able to move in late Monday night.
The downside of the temporary housing is that it is a bit further from the academy than they would like and there is no telephone or Internet access. The phone is okay, because they both have mobile phones to communicate with one another and new friends. The Internet is a bummer for E because she has to go to Internet cafes or visit other homes for access. C has it everyday at work, so he is good to go!
Now from her own view point, here are some words from E:
--I am thankful that I have been in this part of the world several times before moving. If not, I would have probably pulled out all of my hair by now. It definitely takes patience and a 'manana' (or tomorrow) mentality to survive. Take for instance my temporary drivers license. A man from C's school took both he and I to the local Dept. of Transportation in order to fill out all of the proper paper work. This included submitting multiple passport photos and having the document typed in another language. Once all of that was done, I had to take an eye exam. Let's just say that I said a little prayer before going in because even with my glasses, I still have trouble seeing at times. After passing the exam we went to another location to turn in all of the stamped paperwork. Then we were thrown into a volley between two workers because neither one of them could (or maybe just would) read my driver's US license because it was in English. This women waved us off as if we were flies and said to come back tomorrow and maybe someone would be there to translate my driver's license into their language. Apparently, a native speaker has to translate on the official document my driver's license from English to their language. Nice. The man who drove us yesterday said that he would call sometime between 9am and 12pm today to take me. I'm not holding my breath.
Last week I ended up at one of the various malls for lunch. What's different about the Food Court in this part of the world is the "Ladies Section". Most public areas, including restaurants, sports clubs, and parks, have a section for women only. A very nice Persian restaurant adjacent to our hotel even had a separate entrance on the side for women. Women unescorted by men are usually found in the Ladies Section. That's where I ended up enjoying my lamb shwarma and mutable. Besides some Asian girls, I was the only one not completely covered. I felt kinda lonely until a precious little boy playing with a balloon tried to get me to play with him. I love it when the Father sends me a gentle reminder in the midst of awkward moments.
The local women completely cover their bodies in an abaya. Many of which or ornately designed with beading and sequence. These women are not hurting financially and even though they are completely covered, they are covered in style. The only part of their body which can be seen is their eyes. Some women even wear a thin black cloth covering their entire face. Unusual in other parts of the mslm world, but typical here. You might wonder what to do when you see one of these women walking towards you. I generally smile and make eye contact--when you can see their eyes. It's amazing to watch their eyes widen with my genuine contact with them. I would assume that many western women turn away or stare awkwardly at them as they pass in the malls and on the streets.
C has introduced me to many colleagues from the academy and I always remind myself not to stick out my hand like I typically would in the States. It is not appropriate for a man and woman to touch unless you are related. Therefore, our natural instinct of reaching out and shaking hands with a new person is offensive and culturally not acceptable. Now, if the man extends his hand first, then it's okay. But that is not very common.
I was doing good with this until C introduced me to a man who had been raised in the States, but has in the past decade moved his life and beliefs to this region. When I stuck out my hand he waved me off. Ouch! At first I was embarrassed by my cultural mistake, then I was ticked off because the guy was an American and should know better. Of course I would naturally shake the hand of another American! But, in the end, I'm a woman and what I think or believe in this region doesn't make a dent within the male dominated society.
Yesterday I spent 3 hours at a local Carrefour (found everywhere in this region) to purchase all the household items needed to set up house. After filling up my cart with only household items, I realized that I didn't have room for groceries. I paid for the items in my cart and then headed back into the store for the food items. For those of you in the South, I cracked up when I found several "Kroger" brand items. While shopping I ran into a mom with 2 kids who had just arrived from Houston. We both shared our arrival experiences and helped each other find a few items in the massive store. It's comforting to hear an accent so close to home.
I would like to say that I have the most amazing husband! Saturday I was sick...we are talking REAL sick. One of our new friends offered to drive us around to search for housing. There is a reason most people drive 4wd and SUV's here. Many times a paved road ends and you are required to create your own. So, each time that happened, my stomach churned just a wee bit more. By the time we decided to quit our search we took another roundabout and I had it. Don't worry, you are not going to read something gross! For the sake of young readers, I'll just say that I lost my lunch on the side of the road. C was right there holding me up and then washed off my feet. (note to self: do not wear flip flops while stomach is queasy.) He took care of me the rest of the day AND did all of our laundry at a friend's home. WOW! Much love to you Mr. Man!
Points to Ponder:
--C's students arrive on Sunday. Ask for quick memory with names/faces and that he will feel confident in the classroom.
--C's relationship with fellow teachers will continue to deepen.
--Thanks: great time of fellowship last Friday! Wonderful opportunities to plug in with like-minded people.
--Thanks: no driving accidents...continue to lift that up!
--E will discover more opportunities to meet women
--C&E: continue in their personal study time; work together in all situations; find favor in purchasing a vehicle at the end of the month.
PS--we do have pictures of the area and will get them up when possible
Monday, August 27, 2007
104; feels like 124
WHEW! They have arrived in their new city and have settled into their cozy hotel on one of the major thouroughfares in the city. Upon arrival, the two searched the hundreds of people for the name placard bearing their family name. None was to be found. After going through customs and weaving around other arriving passengers, E stayed by the curb outside while C whet back into the airport to inquire about transportation to our hotel. E wasn't too worried...at least she had her ALL of her luggage which was 100% different than her experience in SY the previous summer.
C has finished his first day on the job and leared that the academy has over 65 nationalities employed as faculty and staff. C found it much easier to call his collegues by the name of the country of origin rahter than trying to pronounce some of the names. He said it was interesting to The complex is the largest of its kind int he world! His classroom will be given to him in the next few days...then E ha to come up to the campus and assist in decorating.
Yesterday E took care of purchasing mobile phones and C took care of renting a Honda City for the month. It's a safe car (a bit larger than an accord) and doesn't smell like smoke. Most used and rental cars smell like a tobacco factory, So C & E settled on renting the 2007 model...never been used.
The weather is HOT! It's tempting to stay inside all day, just so the heat doesn't melt glasses to a pers on's face. If you would like to know what 124 feels like---fly on over! Or you could just turn on your oven to 125 and leave the door open to see how warm it is outside. The inside temperature is anywhere from 65-75. Nice and cool!
C&E got to enjoy a nice regional meal last night with some new friends. The lamb was fantastic and the hummus , mattable, and fatoush (salad) were the perfect compliment to the meal. The evening ended with hot mint tea and cream caramel So much for loosing those extra 'newlywed pounds'!
E is touring the oceanfront this afternoon with another American and hopes to take C out this evening when it is much cooler. Tomorrow C goes back to work and E goes back to househunting.
Points to ponder:
--YES! We arrived safely with all luggage
--THANKFUL: We have a place to stay and a vehicle for one month
--Jet lag: it's a nasty beast and needs to be GONE from our systems in order to us to function at full capacity
--E locates a 2-3 bedroom flat (apartment) before Rmadn begins on / near Sept 13th
--C continues to build relationships wih those at the Academy...adjustment to the new position.
C has finished his first day on the job and leared that the academy has over 65 nationalities employed as faculty and staff. C found it much easier to call his collegues by the name of the country of origin rahter than trying to pronounce some of the names. He said it was interesting to The complex is the largest of its kind int he world! His classroom will be given to him in the next few days...then E ha to come up to the campus and assist in decorating.
Yesterday E took care of purchasing mobile phones and C took care of renting a Honda City for the month. It's a safe car (a bit larger than an accord) and doesn't smell like smoke. Most used and rental cars smell like a tobacco factory, So C & E settled on renting the 2007 model...never been used.
The weather is HOT! It's tempting to stay inside all day, just so the heat doesn't melt glasses to a pers on's face. If you would like to know what 124 feels like---fly on over! Or you could just turn on your oven to 125 and leave the door open to see how warm it is outside. The inside temperature is anywhere from 65-75. Nice and cool!
C&E got to enjoy a nice regional meal last night with some new friends. The lamb was fantastic and the hummus , mattable, and fatoush (salad) were the perfect compliment to the meal. The evening ended with hot mint tea and cream caramel So much for loosing those extra 'newlywed pounds'!
E is touring the oceanfront this afternoon with another American and hopes to take C out this evening when it is much cooler. Tomorrow C goes back to work and E goes back to househunting.
Points to ponder:
--YES! We arrived safely with all luggage
--THANKFUL: We have a place to stay and a vehicle for one month
--Jet lag: it's a nasty beast and needs to be GONE from our systems in order to us to function at full capacity
--E locates a 2-3 bedroom flat (apartment) before Rmadn begins on / near Sept 13th
--C continues to build relationships wih those at the Academy...adjustment to the new position.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
14 hours until departure
At this point, C&E should be snoozing away and resting peacefully in the guest bedroom of the Caplinger's home. Instead, they are still up, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Caplinger, as they experiment with creative packing techniques. Apparently it is cheaper to have excess weight in a 'checked bag' than it is to pay the expenses of an extra 'checked bag'. Even Houdini would be impressed with the ways they stuffed clothes, books, DVDs, Cd's, cookware, educational material, shoes, sports equipment, and a painting into 13 checked bags. Oh yes...it's 13! They began with 16 checked bags and have weened it down to only 13. Thanks to friends loaning C&E a 15 passenger van, they will be able to load everything to the airport in one trip.
The past several days have been stressful for the couple. It is never easy to uproot from one location and transplant life into another time zone. Emotions run high and energy runs low...real low at times. For instance, it's 1am and the update is just now making it off the 'To Do List', but at least it is being done!
C&E would like for family and friends to please lift up their stamina for the next several days. Although they will arrive in country on Saturday evening, C begins work the very next morning at 8am. While he is adjusting to a new time zone, new culture, and new occupation, E will be scavenging the city (population:300,000) for a home and a vehicle. They will also be adjusting to how to live with one another within the boundaries of a more conservative culture.
Points to Ponder:
--our family members who will be learning to communicate via Skype rather than in person
--our friends who will be learning to go through the weekly events without C&E around
--our new home: location, neighbors, large enough to host friends!
--C's new job: flexibility, understanding, and connection with co-workers
--E's new role: full-time house wife...it's a NEW ONE for her!!!!!
--our new fellowship: connection with like-minded people
The past several days have been stressful for the couple. It is never easy to uproot from one location and transplant life into another time zone. Emotions run high and energy runs low...real low at times. For instance, it's 1am and the update is just now making it off the 'To Do List', but at least it is being done!
C&E would like for family and friends to please lift up their stamina for the next several days. Although they will arrive in country on Saturday evening, C begins work the very next morning at 8am. While he is adjusting to a new time zone, new culture, and new occupation, E will be scavenging the city (population:300,000) for a home and a vehicle. They will also be adjusting to how to live with one another within the boundaries of a more conservative culture.
Points to Ponder:
--our family members who will be learning to communicate via Skype rather than in person
--our friends who will be learning to go through the weekly events without C&E around
--our new home: location, neighbors, large enough to host friends!
--C's new job: flexibility, understanding, and connection with co-workers
--E's new role: full-time house wife...it's a NEW ONE for her!!!!!
--our new fellowship: connection with like-minded people
Friday, August 17, 2007
One week to go!
The BOGS (Big Ol' Garage Sale) was a huge hit! It was unbelievable to watch people arrive even an hour before the sale was supposed to begin. They were blessed beyond their prys and were even able to help a local charity with nice women's clothing.
They are meeting with friends and family everyday and filling footlockers with belongings. It's a tedious process emotionally and physically. The plan is to be out of their duplex by Tuesday and staying with friends until Friday morning. Their flight leaves on Friday afternoon and they will arrive in their new city on Saturday morning (US time).
This is a short one due to time and tasks to be accomplished. Thank you for your prys, support, and encouragement. They could not do this without it!
They are meeting with friends and family everyday and filling footlockers with belongings. It's a tedious process emotionally and physically. The plan is to be out of their duplex by Tuesday and staying with friends until Friday morning. Their flight leaves on Friday afternoon and they will arrive in their new city on Saturday morning (US time).
This is a short one due to time and tasks to be accomplished. Thank you for your prys, support, and encouragement. They could not do this without it!
Sunday, August 5, 2007
And the lucky number is...24!
There is a bit of peace over C & E as they have just heard word from the Academy concerning their flights from the US. The official departure date from the US is Friday, August 24th and with the arrival in their country being Saturday, August 25th. Before landing in the capitol city of their final destination, they will stop in Illinois and Germany. When it's all said and done, the total trip time should only be 19 hours. Any bets that might be extended?
Friday, August 3, 2007
We're Leaving on a Jet Plane...
It's official! C & E have FBI clearance and an official invitation from the Academy to move to their new country. In earlier communication with the Academy, August 24th was the tentative move date. From a brief email yesterday, C & E learned the Academy had reserved tickets for them leaving on August 17th! This put them in a bit of a tailspin, but they are working feverishly to have the date moved back to the 24th. Check early next week for a brief blog update concerning their last day in the US.
Today is E's last day at the University and it has been a tearful one for sure. The week has been full of faculty, staff, and students dropping by for one last time. How appropriate that Ms. Rebecca was the final student to drop by the office. She was the very first student that E met at the University. It has been an amazing two years of learning, leadership, and service.
C is still out sweating in the sun as he diligently manicures local lawns. He continues to study more material and make lesson plans for his class. Information about the classroom technology was sent to him and it looks like he will have absolutely anything and everything a teacher would ever dream of for his or her classroom. To E it looks like something out of 'Minority Report'.
This next week C & E are focusing on a HUGE MOVING SALE. When looking around their home at items, they have to decide to sell it, ship it, or store it. If it can be stored for a number of years, why not sell it? If you are looking for some good items to buy and live in the area, stop by their sale.
Points to Ponder:
for C: new job as a teacher; build good relationships with employers, students, and co-workers; the Father would build bridges between C and the key people he meets; sell his truck within 2 weeks;
for E: patience...need lots of it when dealing with paperwork to close out life in the US and begin life overseas; healthy emotional stamina in saying so many goodbyes to wonderful people; thanks for connecting her with a new American friend living in their new country
Today is E's last day at the University and it has been a tearful one for sure. The week has been full of faculty, staff, and students dropping by for one last time. How appropriate that Ms. Rebecca was the final student to drop by the office. She was the very first student that E met at the University. It has been an amazing two years of learning, leadership, and service.
C is still out sweating in the sun as he diligently manicures local lawns. He continues to study more material and make lesson plans for his class. Information about the classroom technology was sent to him and it looks like he will have absolutely anything and everything a teacher would ever dream of for his or her classroom. To E it looks like something out of 'Minority Report'.
This next week C & E are focusing on a HUGE MOVING SALE. When looking around their home at items, they have to decide to sell it, ship it, or store it. If it can be stored for a number of years, why not sell it? If you are looking for some good items to buy and live in the area, stop by their sale.
Points to Ponder:
for C: new job as a teacher; build good relationships with employers, students, and co-workers; the Father would build bridges between C and the key people he meets; sell his truck within 2 weeks;
for E: patience...need lots of it when dealing with paperwork to close out life in the US and begin life overseas; healthy emotional stamina in saying so many goodbyes to wonderful people; thanks for connecting her with a new American friend living in their new country
Friday, July 20, 2007
What can they do for fun over there?
Questions come from all ages concerning the 'big move' in late August. C & E have been doing much reading and research in the past month seeking out answers for the inquiring minds that want to know. Before the information is released, here is a brief update on C & E.
Thanks to the lapse in rain, C has been able to work outside the past 2 days. He would have worked more, but E pulled him away on a plane to Chicago to spend 5 days with her sister's family. Now that they have both been fattened up by Rachel's amazing cooking, he is back out in the heat working on local lawns. When it has rained, C has spent his time reading through lesson plans and through books that will assist him in engaging people of their new culture. He also has mastered the art of making 'The Conga'...it's sweet, fizzy, and fruity! Although, Sonic's Cherry Limeade is still his favorite treat after working outside all day.
And now for E. It's a new segment in life when she is having to learn how to grocery shop for two people--one of which is a MAN! Who knew that chunky hot salsa could disappear so quickly? When she is not dishing out new recipes at home, she is trying to prepare her office and students for the new person hired for her position. With only 7 days remaining at work, she is beginning to feel the pinch of getting it all done. She spends her 'off' hours boxing up keepsakes, stacking items for THE garage sale of the decade, and pitching items not worth keeping or selling. Not to mention the looming task of finishing ALL of the wedding "Thank You" notes. Not to worry, they will all get done before they leave the USA.
ACTIVITIES: C & E could enjoy...
Many people have asked what type of housing C & E will have in their new city. After talking with the Academy and with local Realtors, it appears that they have a few options to consider.
Points to Ponder:
NEXT TIME:
--Do you have to wear that?
--Where/what will you eat?
Thanks to the lapse in rain, C has been able to work outside the past 2 days. He would have worked more, but E pulled him away on a plane to Chicago to spend 5 days with her sister's family. Now that they have both been fattened up by Rachel's amazing cooking, he is back out in the heat working on local lawns. When it has rained, C has spent his time reading through lesson plans and through books that will assist him in engaging people of their new culture. He also has mastered the art of making 'The Conga'...it's sweet, fizzy, and fruity! Although, Sonic's Cherry Limeade is still his favorite treat after working outside all day.
And now for E. It's a new segment in life when she is having to learn how to grocery shop for two people--one of which is a MAN! Who knew that chunky hot salsa could disappear so quickly? When she is not dishing out new recipes at home, she is trying to prepare her office and students for the new person hired for her position. With only 7 days remaining at work, she is beginning to feel the pinch of getting it all done. She spends her 'off' hours boxing up keepsakes, stacking items for THE garage sale of the decade, and pitching items not worth keeping or selling. Not to mention the looming task of finishing ALL of the wedding "Thank You" notes. Not to worry, they will all get done before they leave the USA.
ACTIVITIES: C & E could enjoy...
- cookery classes (that's the way it was listed)
- fencing
- rugby
- wadi and dune bashing
- drama
- camel riding
Many people have asked what type of housing C & E will have in their new city. After talking with the Academy and with local Realtors, it appears that they have a few options to consider.
- a villa* (2-3 bedroom)
- apartment* (2-3 bedroom)
- renting a semi-furnished accommodation = includes air conditioning
- renting a non-furnished accommodation = NO air conditioning
Points to Ponder:
- Thanks for lifting up the need to study and prepare...both have been more diligent in this area since the previous blog
- Wisdom in financial decisions (need to purchase a computer...preferably before leaving; need to purchase a car in new country upon arrival)
- C: understanding of the teaching material; creativity on how to use it in the classroom; strength for lawn commitments during the next 5 weeks
- E: diligence in studying the culture BEFORE arriving; finishing well at University; connection with lady in country to continue; patience in the preparations to move
NEXT TIME:
--Do you have to wear that?
--Where/what will you eat?
Friday, July 6, 2007
Four More Weeks!
Why are C & E smiling? They received an email from their host company of a new arrival date of August 26th. This will allow the newlyweds to extend their time in the US by 4 weeks before heading 7000+ miles away. They will continue working and living in their city up until it is time to move.Here are some facts about where they will be living:
- average days of rain per year = 7 days
- approximate # of nationals living in the country = 250,000
- approximate # of expatriates (that's us!) living in the country = 700,000
- average temperatures in the summer = 107 F(day); 65F (evening)
- average temperatures in the winter = 90F (day); 50F (evening)
- was the #1 location for harvesting pearls in that region for 700 years
- E has already begun to develop a friendship with a young lady in the country; ask that it is a natural connection once they meet at the end of August
- Ask that C continues to be blessed with more work. C & E are thankful for the rain as it gives C more opportunity to work (once it all dries up!).
- Study time for C & E: they are committing to one another and the Father to study materials that will enhance their life and work within their new cultural surroundings. (language, culture, etc.)
Monday, June 25, 2007
Answers to Questions
In an earlier blog, you were asked by C&E to speak to Father about a background check that C needs in order to move. Guess what!...E contacted the AAcademy and apparently the work visa for C is underway. The visa will automatically grant C&E one year within the country. The FBI background check is needed to apply for a residency visa. They will work through the residency visa process once they arrive in country. This means that unless there are some unforeseen hitches in their path, C&E will be departing around the first few days of August.
Here's how you can be an active participant in their life:
Here's how you can be an active participant in their life:
- Contact them before they leave...they want to speak with as many friends and family as possible before the end of July
- Take the initiative to visit with them in person as time permits, either in their city or one close to them
- Create a time with them to enjoy a meal (C is a master on the grill and his homemade tortillas rival any made at a Mexican restaruant.)
- Ask Father to continue teaching them about being a husband and a wife (It's still new to them, but they are both studying the Word for wisdom and guidance. Eph. 5 is on the fridge!)
- Ask Father to lead them to the home already prepared for them in their new country. They will have approximately one month to look for housing before C begins teaching on Spt 9th.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Captured in Time
May 26, 2007 will reside in the minds and hearts of C and E for a lifetime thanks to the amazing photographer who captured every moment of their special day. Here are some photos for you!
Here is E in front of one of many fountains only one hour before the wedding.
Now we have Mr. TDH (Tall, Dark, Handsome...as E prefers to call him!) He too posed in front of fountains before the ceremony while E returned to a local hotel to await the right moment to arrive.
OOPS! E is leaving right in the nick of time as usual. Thanks to the help of Joel, she was able to make it to the ceremony just in time. Notice that Rachel was not shocked by the late departure.Everyone was ready to go at the amphitheater and the music was perfect for the setting. Plus, many friends and family were asking the Father for NO RAIN during the ceremony. Note: it only rained Saturday morning.
This was E's first glance at C during the ceremony has her father walked her around the platform. Her dad and sister won the award for most tears EVER shed at a wedding.If you look closely enough, you can spot the tip of a white flip flop peeking out from under E's wedding dress. For those preparing for a wedding...flip flops are an excellent choice for comfortable footwear. As long as you can snazz them up a bit.
E was thinking, "Am I dreaming? Am I really the luckiest woman in the world to be marrying the most handsome man?!" Of course her brother, Andy, in the background is still in shock that his baby sister has finally gotten married. Older brother Andy and the couple's friend Kim were the officiants at the wedding ceremony. Kim is actually the man who encouraged the two to meet. It seemed right to have him as a part of the special occasion.
Notice that C was as cool and calm as always. He just smiled and whispered, "I love you", throughout the ceremony.
Presenting: Mr. and Mrs. C & E Lopez!
Beautiful memory of the many friends and family who were able to share in wedding celebration. This was taken after about 800 family pictures were taken! If you think that's an exaggeration, E said her photogrpaher took 1600 photos before, during, and after the wedding and reception. We should thank her for only submitting the few number of photos for this blog.
E's matron of honor was her younger sister Rachel. She and her family made the trip from Illinois down for the wedding. C had his brother Carl as his best man. Carl brought his entire family down from upstate for the ceremony.To end this blog...some candid shots of the newly married couple
taken around the park before heading to the reception.
Want to go for a swim? Swing Me!taken around the park before heading to the reception.
A glimpse of a walk into their future~
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Back from the Honeymoon!
C&E spent a week on a beautiful beach soaking in the sun and and the sights. C had NEVER been to a beach before, nor had he seen any ocean. The look on his face was priceless as he took off his sandals and stepped into the sand. He said, "So is that was sand feels like between toes?" E loved it! Most of their days were spent relaxing by their private pool or by the beach. They did come in 3rd place in an egg toss contest...but the egg busted on E so they were out of the game. The volleyball tournament had them on a the 2ND place team, even though they were the only 2 English speaking people on the sandy court. One of the most enjoyable experiences was the guided snorkeling adventure. E is an experienced 'snorkeler', but it was C's first time. It was amazing to go with a guide who knew when to dive deep into the waters to find sea creatures.
The newlyweds both got to hold the following: star fish (felt like a HUGE spider crawling up E's arm), blow fish (watch out for the prickly sides) and a baby octopus! The pictures are worth a thousand words. After being out in the water for an hour, the couple decided to take a rest in the colorful hammocks overlooking the bay. What a perfect afternoon!Now they have returned home and are trying to get into the swing of everyday life. C is working hard each day with his lawn business, while E is finishing work at the university. They have approximately 9 weeks before moving overseas and each week they are making efforts to visit with family and friends.
Here is how you can be thinking of C & E. In order for C to receive an official invitation and work visa from the country they are moving, he needs an official FBI clearance. The typically turnaround time is 16-18 weeks. They need it in less than 4 because the work visa process takes approximately 1 month to complete. As you can read, C&E are in a time crunch, but they are trusting Father to work out all details--especially the paperwork. You can also ask that the marriage liscence arrives soon in order for E to complete all document name changes before leaving the country.
What a joy it was to celebrate the wedding ceremony with so many friends and family present. They are thankful that so many of you were able to come and that the weather held off so that the wedding could take place outside as planned!
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