Mike said he would check at work this morning and let me know if we would try to get my passport stamped today. We called Angela and she said if we went she would like to go too. Mike called and we decided we would go to Hatta and get passport. Angela had talked with a neighbor who does this every month, and she gave us directions and info on how to get there. So at 10:30 am off we went to Hatta. It was a nice long drive. We arrived in Hatta around 3:30 pm, go our passport stamped to exit UAE. Surprise, I didn’t have to pay a fine, they give you a 10 day grace period, I could of waited 4 more days. We then drove about 2 km into Oman and got our passports stamped for in and out. They call this a visa run. The immigration officer joked with Mike about having 2 women with him. Especially since Mike made a comment about yesterday Angela was his girlfriend and now she was his daughter today. (When he called Angela yesterday evening he said hi girlfriend and she told him he had the wrong number. He said wait and quickly put me on the phone.) At the window she said since I came in the same car I guess I can be a member of the family, maybe your daughter. You had to be there, but the officer laughed and joked about it. After getting that straightened out we got back in the car and drove back to UAE. Went on the wrong side of the building, someone told us this side is nationals other side foreigners. So we went and got our passports stamped so we could go back in. Since it was now 4:30 we were hungry. Mike decided he wanted to eat a Tony Roma’s in Dubai. But he got turned around and it took us an extra 30 minutes to get to the mall. We arrived close to 6:30 for dinner. After we ate, we went shopping. I got tennis shoes for golf – little tread, so I wouldn’t mark up the browns. And I had been looking for a purple shirt I could wear here and I found one with Angela’s help. She was glad on the way home that I sort of told Mike to slow down and put 2 hands on the wheel when we were going through a construction area. She said she was glad she wasn’t the only one to do it and wished Luigi (her husband) was there to hear it. We finally got home at 11:30pm. A long day since I woke up at 5am. Tomorrow Mike has golf in the morning. I will try and sleep in. It is Borouge competition. Should be fun, dinner will be provided at 7 pm, so will be a fun social time for me too.

Friday – Mike played golf, said he didn’t do well and that it was extremely hot. He ended up in 5th place, which I don’t consider bad. He won the draw prize. It was 100 dirhams, which is close to $25 in USA. Annika pulled a golf card out of a hat and he said no not that one and it was his. Rather funny. The dinner was nice, we ate outside and there is a nice breeze that comes from the ocean.

Sat. we went to Abu Dhabi. Mike likes to get away from Ruwais on the weekends. Maybe one day we will stay in town. I get scared on the road and make noises that upset Mike. The drivers go so fast and drive dangerously. There are many road fatalities here. I got some paper for making some more floating star cards. We will see if I get them done.

Sun. was origami in the morning. We made three dimensional cards. It was fun and I didn’t mess up this time. Mike asked if there are ever any failures. I told him I am the worst origami person in the group. He thinks the cards I do are good.

Mon. was golf in the morning. I played, but did poorly. I picked up the ball almost every hole. You pick up after 10 shots so you don’t slow down the groups. Maybe one day I will get the swing of the golf club down.

Tues and Wed. was the same as usual – golf in the morning, darts, then Rummikub wed.
We got ready for Oman on Wed night, left early Thursday morning. We arrived in Abu Dhabi before 9:30am to pick up the rental car. They were out of gps systems, so just had are small maps to go by. The border check to leave UAE confused us. We got to the check point without going through immigration, so had to park car and find the correct building, after a few wrong doors, a worker took us to the right place. Thought I would use the bathroom in the Omani border check point. Changed my mind after going in – it was disgusting. We had a nice leisurely drive through Oman. We went to Sohar and drove along the coast line to Muscat. Stopped and saw the sights in several of the towns. Of course the fort we stopped out was closed for renovations, maybe another time.

Had fun in Oman – loved the souk in Muscat. I purchased a few Xmas gifts for family. The mosque was really beautiful. We were going to the museums in old muscat first but they were closed so went to the mosque. Mike had been to the mosque in Abu Dhabi and they provided covering for you, and thought they would in Muscat. I purchased a scarf and the clerks wrapped in around my head properly. We purchased a book that described all the things in the mosque, they didn’t have tours. It seems you get them before you go to the mosque.
We arrived back in UAE late Sat. night. We stopped for dinner in Abu Dhabi. The drive back home seemed to take forever. I think it just seemed longer, because we drove straight back and didn’t stop to take in the sights along the way.

Sun was origami – we had it in the morning, since several people were gone. We had a choice of star, holly, or hearts. Mike was told he needed to move out of the camp – since we have an apartment in town also. So we gathered his things and moved.

I spent Mon. morning organizing Mike’s things. He might be able to find them when he needs them. It was golf in the afternoon. I just couldn’t get my club to hit the ball. Mike played tennis in the afternoon and got home just before I did. We went to the camp to eat dinner, they were having their quarterly bbq. They had lamb and shrimp, it was really good. Better than their usual fare.

Tues. was golf in the morning. Riitta played and was expecting her first grandchild. Tarja hit the tree and there was much talk and excitement. We weren’t sure what was going on. Found out while they were discussing what the rules were, Riitta got a phone call saying she was a grandmother to a baby girl. After we finished we had a glass of wine to celebrate. She leaves this evening for home and a visit with the granddaughter. I didn’t get home until almost 1 pm. I was tired so after showering I took a nap. It was dart night, so we went early and ate at the club house. Mike’s team was in the finals at darts, we lost to his team the first game. We only had to get the bulls eye, they got the 4 numbers they needed before we hit the bull’s eye. Oh well it was fun. There were a few new people playing. We had to remind them that they had to pull their darts out of the board after they were through. They don’t remove themselves one of the ladies said.

Wed. is Rummikub. There were only 4 of us to play. One person had to leave, so we started again. I won this time. I will do laundry this afternoon and then think about what to do for dinner.

4th week in Ruwais

Friday was a quiet day. Mike has a slight cold, he slept until 1 pm. But we decided to go with Marek Sat. to Abu Dhabi and hit golf balls and go to a bookstore he found.

Sat. we left for Abu Dhabi around 8 am. I was fine, but when we arrived my neck was sore. I guess I twisted it in the car. I tried hitting the golf ball, but couldn’t swing the club without pain. So I went to the club house to wait while they finished at the driving range. We went to the gold souk, but it was close to closing time, so the stores were not letting anyone in. I did manage to go to the 6 dirham shop(like everything $1 store at home) and get a tension rod for curtains in the kitchen. I purchased the wrong size last time we were there. They wanted to close early. So we decided to try the bookstore. While going there we realized it was the bookstore we had been to the week before. I told Mike I didn’t think it opened in the afternoon until 5 pm. That was the case. So we went to eat an early dinner or late lunch at the Philippine House. I don’t really like it but Marek does. It is ok and the bbq chicken was ok. Since we were done and it was another hour before the stores would open we decided to go back to Ruwais.

Sun. Mike went to work and I went to origami at Jeanny’s house. We made cards with string. Unfortunately, although I was careful I wasn’t careful enough. I cut a few of my strings. Decided I would fix at home. But instead of fixing the mess, I made it worse, but breaking the hole and the threads on one side all became loose. So I will try making another one after I go and get some more paper. Mike really liked the card. I still had to finish the center star. When I got home I started making curtains. We decided to wait until Jan. when I come back to get a sewing machine, since I have been busy most days. So I hand sewed the extra fabric I brought that matched the sheets for the blow up beds. It takes awhile to make curtains by hand, at least for me.

Mon. I decided to try and play golf in the afternoon even though my neck was still bothering me. They decided to play best ball. I did fine the first hole, they used my t shot and chip shot. But after that my neck started hurting again and it made me swing funny and I did lousy for the other 3 holes. Although my putting wasn’t too bad, and I think they used one of my putts too. I am the newest beginner of the group.

Tues. I opted out of ladies morning golf. Mike decided to play some golf after work. So I worked on the curtains some more. Finished the ones to hide the trash can. Then it was time to get ready for darts. We arrived early so we could have dinner at the club house. But everyone was running late, so darts didn’t start until after 8:30. Made for a late evening, but not only was my neck bothering me after darts, now my back is hurting. Guess I am walking or holding my shoulder funny. Hopefully a few more hot showers and heat packs will help. I couldn’t sleep, so got on line and found Trish and Ruth C on facebook and talked to them for awhile. I think the advil finally worked and went to sleep.

Wed. after sleeping in played Rummikub. I ended up with a score of zero. With five players I was in 3rd place. That is the best I have done so far. So I was happy. Maybe next time I will improve again. Angela was saying she wasn’t going home and Annika asked if she would get her passport stamped since the regulations changed. She said she forgot all about it. Made me realize I needed to check the requirements to see if I would have a problem. I got home in enough time to check and get ready for the Texas Scramble at the golf club. Found out that the regulations changed from when I was last here from 90 days to 30 days. I have been in the UAE 34 as of today. I was not playing, but walked the course with Mike’s group. I got the few balls that went out of bounds. There were 2 teams and the teams tied – so there was no winner or loser. Afterwards there was a dinner of fish and chips. Talking with a few people found out the fine for overstaying is 100 dirhams a day – which is close to 28 US dollars. So Mike is now checking to see where the closest border with stamp is. It looks like we will be going to Al Ain soon. If he can get off work tomorrow we will go then. It brings back memories of Korea. You would think I would learn. I did finish my curtains for the kitchen. So now I no longer have sheets on any of the windows. Yeah!!

Another week in Ruwais

Sun. Mike let me have the car. I drove to aerobics and Elaine asked if I needed a ride home afterwards and if I wanted I ride to origami. I accepted the ride to origami, but said I had the car today. I tried to find the Emirates Shopping Center on the way home, but got so lost, decided just to head home and try later. I started hand laundry and had tuna fish for lunch. Got ready for origami and went to class. We made a star or you could make it into a flower. Mine didn’t look too good, so I will try again and put the best one on a card. Around 5 I went to the Emirates Shopping Center to find the laundry service. It was closed, so bought a few things at the store, fruit and drinks. It still wasn’t open, so came home. Mike was home, we decided to hit golf balls and drop of the laundry. I did so so on my golf. Hit a few good shots – he keeps telling me not to try to hit the ball so hard. I think I am just trying to hit it. Oh well. Afterwards I asked to eat at the club house again. We did and there was a surprise inside. One of the Arabs had brought his hawk. Mike and I each had our picture taken with it. He was a very interesting fellow and we enjoyed talking with him.

Mon. was ladies golf in the afternoon. I went to aerobics in the morning and did laundry when I got home. I did fine in golf at first, but after two holes my stroke went wild. Afterwards Mike and I ate at the golf club. We tried the chicken Marsalis – but it was sooooo hot I could not eat it. I had the bread that came with it.

Tues. was ladies golf in the morning. Angele and I played together so the other women could play more holes for their competition. We kept score. I got zero points and Angela got 4, which isn’t bad for playing only 4 holes for a beginner. Needless to say I definitely need more practice. I can’t seem to figure out how hard to swing the sand wedge when I get close to the hole. My ball goes back and forth over the brown (in UAE with sand courses the green is called brown, since it is really brown). Really frustrating and disappointing when I finally get close to the brown in 5 strokes only to take 4 strokes to get on the brown. Then comes the putting, oh well maybe one day. At least I didn’t lose a ball or go in the water today. It is funny you have to sweep the browns, to erase your foot prints in the sand. So you try to walk in each other’s footsteps as much as possible. I cooked dinner tonight. We had the ground beef – which I mixed with spaghetti sauce. Cooked penne pasta and we had a meal. I also cut up fruit, so we had a fruit salad. I made the brownie mix we bought. I egg yolks were bright orange red, so I wasn’t sure they were good, but thought if I cooked them they might be ok. Well after the brownies came out of the oven I had to try them. They were good and I didn’t get sick. Someone told me later that some of the egg yolks are that color, it is caused by what they feed the chickens. I have no idea. Mike was surprised by my cooking.

Wed. we didn’t play games. Wed. is usually ladies game day. Most of the group went to Abu Dhabi to meet with an old friend who moved there. So I hemmed the curtains, only got one done. I got distracted, worked on my origami and read some of the book I borrowed from Jeamy. This obviously wasn’t a memorable day, can’t remember what else I did. But I do remember a nap.

Thurs. Mike had off. We were going to play golf in the morning, but Mike has a cold and we didn’t sleep well with his snoring. Instead we went and played in the afternoon. I did great the first two holes, except for getting on the green. Mike had me hit four or five balls when I got close and went over, so I could gauge how to hit the sand wedge. I will see if that helps. Then he thought I needed to put some wrist into my swing. Not a good idea. I ended up hitting the mat which hurt my wrist. Mike said I was casting. If you are a golfer maybe you know what he means. We saw Lars and Annika playing too. It was getting dark and I had had enough after 4 holes, so Mike played some more and I put my things away. Sat with Lars and Annika, Annika said you are not supposed to try to put wrist motion into your swing until you have golfed for at least 6 mos. So we will see if it confuses me to go back to my original swing or not. Since I was staving we ate at the club house. I really like their pepper steak – you can have it as a sandwich or a steak with gravy. Either is delicious. We went home and watched some burn notice. The slingbox is a little off, so it isn't the best way to watch tv. I may just have to go to itunes and buy some shows. We will see.

Yesterday (Sunday) I did the dishes. I only used one small squirt of dish liquid. Got the dishes cleaned, but the soap bubbles still came up the drain pipe. Stopped the drain for a little while and then ran water as I finished draining the sink. That worked, no more suds coming up the drain. I then went to aerobic class. I walked there and arrived a little late, but missed the warm up walking part. Since I walked to class figured I didn’t miss anything. I got a ride home after class.
Ate lunch, warmed up left over pizza. Then started the hand laundry, you can’t do it all at once, you run out of cool water. So I have gotten half of the items cleaned, the rest will be done tomorrow.
I got picked up by Tarja. She was waiting for me at the side and I was waiting in the front. I looked out a few times, but missed her. She got out of her car and found me. I will remember to wait outside next time. We went to origami class. Enjoyed making the wreath, next time I will make a star shape. Jeamy told me to take some of the tea bags home, so I can make another design. I did, so I can make some more cards. Tarja told me that tomorrow is ladies meeting and before the meeting they go bowling. In the evening is golf. So tomorrow may be a busy day too.
After class I decided to cook dinner. Started the chicken and was beginning to get the pasta ready, when the internet people came by to connect our apartment. I stopped my prep work and let them work. I am so excited I now have internet in the apartment. Yeah!!!! They finished about 5 min. before Mike got home. So we just had chicken, coleslaw, and canned fruit for dinner. It was the first dinner I cooked in Ruwais. No great meal, but not bad. I got on the internet after dinner and Mike went to camp. After Mike got back home we decided to see if sling box worked. It was downloading something, so decided to go for walk. We went to the tennis court area and walked, then got home and watched on iTunes Burn Notice. There was nothing on the sling box. Need to start recording things, so we can watch during our evening.

Monday – I walked to the rec club and went bowling. I did really well for me. For practice, I got a spare and a strike, but then it was downhill. My first game I got 114 and second game just 69. My excuse is my arm was getting tired. After we finished bowling we went to an area in rec club and had our meeting. They are planning a party in Dec for spouses too. But we will be out of town then, I will be in the states. Afterwards, several (8) ladies went to lunch. It wasn’t bad, but some of the food was very hot. I walked home afterwards and will see about finishing the hand washing. I went golfing in the evening with Tarja, Jeamy, Annika, and Angele. It was ok. They invited me to play golf the next morning, so I will try. Angele and I said that we would play by ourselves, so that we wouldn’t hold them up. That evening Mike and I ate at the camp. Food so so.

Tuesday – I got up early. Why did I say I would play golf at 8 am? Angele and I played several balls from where we landed, but it was so hot by the time we stopped we were drenched. We went inside the club house and had coffee and water. After cooling down we played pool. Of course, the team I was on, Tarja and I, lost both games. Annika won both the golf game and pool – she was the big winner. When Mike got home we went to the store and picked out curtains for the apartment. Of course we only had 6 choices, and 1 didn’t have enough to make curtains. The one we picked only had enough to do 1 curtain, so the blue will be in the living room – hope it goes with our blue couch. The maroon will go in the bedroom. It should make the bedroom dark at night, so maybe will be easier to sleep. They will deliver Oct 8 – the same day as the furniture. It will feel like Christmas. We went to darts, had dinner there. I choose spaghetti with meat sauce and Mike had the pepper steak sandwich. The spaghetti was not made with tomato sauce, but wasn’t bad. But Mike let me switch meals with him. The pepper steak wasn’t too peppery and it was delicious and filling. We played 3 games of darts and my team won. It was a shock. Angele was team captain and didn’t feel up to the task, but she did a great job. The team captain has to throw one dart at the board and the person closest to bull’s eye starts. Since our team won we all got a free drink. I was told you had to have a drink, so I ordered a Heineken and took one sip and gave it to Mike. I drove home since he had had a glass of wine with dinner.

Wed I got up and went to exercise. It was a struggle, since I didn’t sleep well last night. But feel better now that I have exercised. It is off to get showered and dressed. I decided to do laundry and was doing internet search. While I was deciding what to have for lunch the doorbell rang. I forgot it was Rummikub afternoon. Annika was are you ready; I told her I was sorry I forgot, she was worried I was hurt. Since I don’t have a phone they called Mike to find out apt number. (Mike asked me when he got home if I did this on purpose so he would see the need for me to have a phone.) Left the laundry in sink and went to Jeamy’s house. I should have stayed home. I was the biggest loser, which isn’t bad in itself, but most of the time I barely got to lay down anything. Angele took me home, but stopped at the grocery store first. She wanted to get fish and it is fresh fish day. I decided to get a small bottle of milk and more tuna fish (canned). Tomorrow it will be tuna for lunch. When I got home I finished the laundry and started dinner. Wasn’t sure how cooking penne pasta in microwave would work out, but it wasn’t bad. Mike came home and said curtains were ready and they were coming at 5:30 to hang. The man came around 6 pm while I was cooking dinner. He was talking under his breath most of the time. Don’t think it was because he was happy. The drill bit broke and he had to go get another one. He got the brackets up, dropped the drill from the ladder and when he went to put up the rod found out the rope was not strung on rod. So he left the brackets and started on the curtains in the bedroom. He hung them up and then had to leave to get new rod for living room. Dinner was done, but Mike felt we needed to wait to eat until he left. The curtains in bedroom looked good and it seems like they will block out the light better than Mike’s garbage bags. They might have done a better job if they were of higher quality. The worker came back and put up the new rod and hung the curtains. They drag the floor, Mike felt they were ok. After the man left he said I would have no trouble tacking them up to the correct length. Guess he feels I don’t have enough to keep me busy. We ate dinner and then watched 2 episodes of Burn Notice. Found out when it is on at home and scheduled the sling box to record it. That is about all that happened today.

Interesting reading

Just thought I would share some of the funny things you see.

At the camp the had:

Green Piece Soup - Mike said it earlier said Green Peace Soup, but they were informed that was not the correct spelling.

Coalflower with cream sauce

cabbeg salad

My favorite is the beauty parlor and several barber shops in the UAE are called saloons, instead of salons.

This sign when passing by while going 80 mph was very confusing. I asked Mike what was it no hair? But after passing other signs that weren't worn out, I realized it was no u turn.

Oct. 1, 2009

I lost my mp3 player on Sat. It was a sad day. We went to Abu Dhabi and on the way home stopped to get gas and at the local grocery store. Then went to the camp to eat dinner and get on the internet. After unpacking when we got home found out no mp3 player. Checked the car, Mike went back to the camp. No mp3 player. I had a hard time sleeping, since I was so upset.

Next day, Sun was a work day for Mike. He left me the phone since it was the day for origami. I did the hand laundry in the morning and had lunch. I then decided to wait in lobby for my ride. I noticed a sign said lost sans disk with grey covering. Contact 3303. So I decided to put below my lost item and wrote lost sansa mp3 player in gray case with ear phones, Contact 3004. Origami class was nice. I made card with an oriental man in hat carrying a lantern. It was nice seeing other women and talking to them in English. Two of us were new and never done this before, so we sat across from each other. 3 were Finish, 2 Dutch and 1 form Ireland. Got home and cleaned house. Sweeping the floor is a daily necessity. Mike came home and we went to camp for dinner and internet use. After coming back – Mike went back to camp to drop off dirty laundry. While he was gone the door bell rang, it was the man from 3303 who wrote the lost notice. He had found my mp3 player and that was the notice he wrote. He returned it to me and wouldn’t take a reward. I was so happy. Mike said I was lucky. He also was glad; he had stopped at the bank to get cash and told me to take 50 dirham’s. I thought I only took 50, but mistook a 200 for a 20. While I was looking through my wallet for a reward noticed the mistake, so left him the 200 on the counter. He was glad; he didn’t want to tell me he lost 200 dirham. So it was a good day.

Mon, I swept the floor and went through some of the papers Mike had laying around. Have a little bit more to go through. Then put away the dry hand wash and did dishes. I went for a walk before Mike got home. It wasn’t too hot in the shade. We went to the golf course to practice hitting golf balls and then threw darts for 15 min. practice. I will never be a great dart player, but am consistently hitting the board now. Then we ate at the camp and got on the internet. After getting home we went and played a little tennis. It was still hot and I play in pants and decided after about 30 min I had enough. Went back to the apt. and watched an episode of Burn Notice on my computer.

Tues, I have done nothing. Did sweep floor and read some of my book. But otherwise it has been an unproductive day. Will probably get out my knitting and do a few rows, but without the couch there really isn’t a real comfortable place to work. Tonight is dart night at the golf club. So we will have dinner there and then play two rounds of darts. Hopefully we will be done by 11 pm. Mike has Thurs off so I am deciding what I need to purchase in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi. We will go to the stores and do some shopping. I will probably get some items for origami. It is a weekly event and I have none of the tools here. Have several of the items at home, but that won’t help me. Well I was a team leader this week. We lost are first game but won the next too. They were all really close. Just who would hit the last target first? We didn’t get home until after 11pm. I was asked to go to Rummique (sp?) tomorrow. I will be picked up around 1 pm. So have tomorrow morning free. Then was told on Thursday after 9pm it will be ladies night at the Danat. We are planning on going to Abu Dhabi Thursday, but should be back by 9 so will try to make it. Most of the ladies I know won’t be there, so I will see if I can find them.

Wed, I took pictures of apartment, so my mom can see where I live. So if you are on facebook you can see them to or just ignore them. I have asked my brother to help my mom view them, since she isn’t very computer savvy.

Thurs, Mike was off so a run into Abu Dhabi. It was a nice trip. We saw Lars and Annika there. Found a rug for the apartment we will think about and then go back and get if I still want it. I decided to try to see how things will transport in the car, so purchased some fresh chicken, frozen pizza and frozen ground beef. Couldn’t find ground beef fresh, and the only type frozen was minced, so we will see what it is like when I start cooking. So far the only meals I have cooked are breakfast – toast and lunch – just for me. It was ladies night at the Lattitude - the bar in the Danat. I went around 9:30 it started at 9. Told Mike to pick me up in an hour. Had a coke and talked to a few ladies, but the band was so loud it was hard to talk. It ends at 11pm, but I left around 10:30 when Mike got there. He was going to play golf Friday and I didn't want it to be a late night.
Around 2 am the alarm sounded in our apartment complex. Mike wouldn’t get up and check. Said only get worried if you smell smoke and we are on bottom floor so could get out. I of course am a worrier and stayed up. It finally went off after about 15 – 20 min. No fire trucks came and they are stationed across the pond from our apartment. I didn’t hear anything about the alarm from anyone in the morning. I was going to go for a walk in the morning while Mike left to play golf, but since I was up until 5 in the morning decided to sleep in.

Friday, Mike came home from golf and I hadn’t gotten dressed yet, so we got ready and went to the camp. Had lunch and I am now on the internet. It only took me about 3 hours to get my photos uploaded on facebook. But at least they are there now. I have been here over 2 weeks now. Seems unbelievable.

week 2 Thurs and Friday

Thurs. - Mike and I went to Dubai. He took me to the Festival Mall first where we ate at On the Border. Didn't get to Dubai until afternoon, then walked around the mall. Afterwards we drove around the city. Started getting dark, so went to Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall and walked around. Ate at Tony Romas. Looks like I am eating at the same places I liked in Seoul. Mike really likes this last mall as it is decorated like different countries. There is an Egypt section, Tunisa, etc. I am sure we will go back another day. We didn't get home until 1:30 am on Friday. Slept in on Friday and hung out at the camp and used their internet connection.

Ruwais in 2009

My 2nd trip to Ruwais

Patt Anderson took me to the airport Wed. I arrived a little before 4 pm. for and 8:30 pm take off. The check in did not open until 4:30pm, so I waited. The plane was on time and it was fairly empty, so I had a row to myself. Of course in economy the armrests do not go all the way back, but I managed to sleep anyway. Watched several movies between my 2 hour naps. Saw Speed, 17 again, and something else I don’t remember. I also did a few Sudoku puzzles. The layover in Doha wasn’t long. That flight wasn’t long either and my blackberry started its international roaming. So at least I know I can get emails. Mike was there to pick me up. I arrived and cleared customs around 11:30 pm Thurs. Abu Dhabi time. We went out to dinner, since during Ramadan the restaurants are open until around 1 or 2 am. Mike decided to try a Mexican restaurant he found, the only one in Abu Dhabi. It is passable. We arrived home and I tried sleeping. Did manage to sleep some.

The next day, Friday, I unpacked. Then we went driving around Ruwais, so I could see the changes since the last time I was here. They don’t seem to worry about pollution as the flare where Mike works was burning. It was burning when I arrived too. Took a few pictures and we went to Donat a hotel where we have membership to their gym. Then we went to the camp and I had lunch, got on the internet, watched TV, and had dinner. We were watching the end of a show when security came and I was told to leave. I cannot get back in camp until my marriage license is translated into Arabic. So thank goodness for my blackberry. Our apartment was supposed to be connected to the internet, but it didn’t happen before Ramadan and they couldn’t tell Mike when it would be connected. Sometime after Ramadan he was told.

Sat, I read books, did Sudoku and tried to decide what things I need for the apartment. Mike brought over the electric kettle so I can have hot chocolate. But for the hot chocolate I have you use milk. It gets too hot in electric kettle, but we used it anyway and had milk spilling out of it. Didn’t make too much of a mess and the hot chocolate was delicious. It is nice they keep the apartment so cool. We went to the Danat (the local hotel) to their Italian restaurant. Mike was in shorts, so we came back home and he changed into pants. The food was good. We were going to go to the local golf club to see who was there, but they got free dirt to spread on the road, but the dirt ended up being dug up old road and there are huge piles of asphalt and the path was blocked. We will go another time.
Sun, we went to Abu Dhabi and actually got some furniture. Yeah!!! We went to IKEA first, decided what couch, dining table, etc. we wanted. Mike was feeling shaky from his diabetes, so we left and had a quick snack. Then decided to go to Carrefour and got a microwave, toaster oven, hooks to hand things, etc. We liked one refrigerator, but it was out of stock. The other small ones we looked at didn’t have as big a freezer section, so decided to see what Ruwais had. Mike had heard they could order one easily. Then back to IKEA. We ordered our couch and dining table, they will arrive Oct 8. We got two floor model chairs, since they were out of stock, a night side table, a lamp, dish starter set, bathmat, and other misc things. Saw they had a true value store. We needed a step ladder so we can reach the top shelves in our bedroom closets. They had many sizes – got one and also a shoes rack and a pressure shower curtain rod to hang curtains in the kitchen. After eating at the mall we came home and unpacked. It was a long day. Of course facebook didn’t work today. Said service can’t connect. I figured it was blocked by UAE filters.

Mon, is Eid holiday. Mike went to the camp and got lunch and checked email. The VP emailed his ok that I can go to the camp with the marriage license cert. I have. But I told Mike he needs to go without me in case there is a mix up. Don’t feel like waiting in the car. I stayed home and read Nicholas sparks book the Choice. We went to the beach late in the afternoon. My comment is it is still very hot even under the umbrella. Went to the gas station by Mike’s work and got a chicken pizza and cheese garlic bread for dinner. Had to see what their garlic bread was like. Pizza wasn’t bad, a lot of veggies on it though. (If you don’t know me well you don’t know I don’t eat many veggies) Afterwards we went to the local electronics store. It had about 5 refrigs in boxes. Only one small one. It was a Korean brand refrig and didn’t have a picture of what it looked like inside or dimensions. They have discontinued making it, so we decided to wait on the refrig. Of course who ever told him they will order was wrong. May go tomorrow back to Abu Dhabi and look at a different Carrefour or try Lulu’s too and see if we can get a refrig.

Tues. we went back to Abu Dhabi. Tried another Carrefour but they had less selection. Then went to Lulu’s. Found a refrig. We liked but decided to look again at the original Carrefour. We ended up getting the refrig from Lulu. Yeah. I now can have cold drinks and get food for another day. Maybe even cook. Facebook worked today. Maybe just a glitch in the system. Saw some friends in LA son died in a car crash. What a tragedy. My prayers go out to his family. This evening we went to the golf club and played darts. I missed the board my first time, but did end up getting the bulls eye my last throw to help us win. There were 4 teams of 4. I think I was the worst player, but my team won one game and lost one. Mike’s team lost all his games. Met some women there, so on Sun (which is a work day) I will go to Jeammy’s house and do origami. They meet once a week and do that. Jeammy told me that she swims and was told once that she couldn’t swim without sleeves and shorts on her swim suit, she said why it is just women’s club and no Arabic women are there. She began swimming and when director came out she didn’t stop. When she finished the director was gone. So she still does it. I may go with her, don’t know that I would of kept swimming.

Wed., we just stayed around Ruwais. Since I can now go back in the camp, I am using their internet. Maybe we will have it soon.

Visit to Los Angeles/Churchill's visit

Arrived and that evening went on a picnic in the hills. There was a concert in the park, so we entertained too. Wonderful evening and met two lovely ladies.

I have eaten well. Grilled Salmon, chicken salad, grilled pork chops at the Churchills. Food at In N Out Burger, mall food court, Terranea resort, and Uncle Bill's Pancake House.

Saw the movie Julie/Julia. Really enjoyed it. Found out Julia Childs was tall over 6 ft and for the movie Meryl Streep stood on a box at times to look taller.

Ruth and I painted John's room. It turned out really well. But I did spill the paint tray on the drop cloth, thank goodness it was almost empty. Taking the window treatment down was a pain. The people who lived in the house before used at least 4" screws. Took almost as long to take out the six screws as it did to paint the entire room. But for dinner steak on the grill, yum.

Worked on the quilt the next day.

Friday we decided to paint Stevens room. It was a lot harder. Guess we were tired from painting John's room.

Had Mexican on Sat. Sun. night we went to the Hollywood Bowl and heard the symphony play Rodgers and Hammerstein selections. They showed bits of the movie with the music, was great.

Monday we worked on the quilt and cleaned up so when Jay got home the house looked like we didn't trash it. Went to the botanical gardens and heard the local orchestra play. It was such a wonderful weather we had a good time. Was fun to see what everyone brought to eat. We didn't bring anything though.

Went home on Tuesday so I could get ready for UAE>

Still in the USA

I have been in the states since November 2008. I am suppose to join Mike in New York City. He has a meeting there towards the end of March. So we plan on seeing the sights of NYC and then head back to the UAE together.

He has bought a bed, so no more blowup beds. Yeah!

I have been keeping busy with visiting my children and mother. While at my mom's I helped her put things away so they could do the deep cleaning and then put everything back after they finished. While we were doing that we went through her drawers and cabinets and tossed or gave away things she no longer wanted or needed. I made a few fabric covered clothesline bowls. They were fun to make, but I would love to take a class to see how to do some of the techniques they talk about.

This weekend I am going back to TCU for mom's weekend at my daughters sorority. They have a fashion show to raise funds for the women's shelter. It should be fun.

Things are really quiet at home.

Ruwais

I have arrived. The trip was pretty uneventful. I do have to say that business class on Emirates airline was really nice. Of course, I got picked to have my carry on smelled by the trained dog. But I didn’t have to have it gone through by the secondary check point. It didn’t seem like such a long trip, but that could because it is shorter than the trip to Seoul and back.

UAE entry is easier than the states or Seoul. I did not have to fill out any forms and being in business class you get a fast track pass, but there was no line anyway. Mike was there to meet me. But I was picked to have my luggage go through the scanner, but it was quick. He didn’t have a car, but a driver. So a nice relaxing drive to the flat. Saw the lights of Dubai and the traffic, but not much else.

The 4 – 5 hour trip to Ruwais seemed to last forever. Getting out of Dubai took forever. Traffic is bad, not sure if it is as bad as Seoul at rush hour, but seems comparable. We stopped about halfway home for gas and to eat something. It was a choice of pizza, burgers, chicken, or donuts. I had chicken and had Mike get donuts for the next day’s breakfast. Good thing, nothing at the flat. Nothing but walls, sink, windows, cabinets in kitchen and in bedroom, and a bathroom. No tub in the bathroom, but a big shower.

The Kitchen The living room

We got home and saw our flat. It isn’t bad, just nothing in it. Had to blow up the beds and make them, then sleep until Thursday. Mike has every other Thursday off and it was his Thursday off. So we spent time viewing what was in the area. It is hot!! Although this is cool weather, can’t imagine what it would be like in the summer. We have a good view out our window. We can see the manmade lake from the kitchen window. Did see a deer the first day, but haven’t seen it since. We ate lunch and dinner at the recreation club. It is the men’s rec club. The womens is elsewhere. There is a store about 5 blocks away with a little shopping and a salon for men and one for women. Funny thing is they spell it saloon instead of salon. Marek picked Mike up and he went to the camp and got a few things.


Friday is their Saturday. It is the day that it usually spent at the beach. So Marek took us to the beach. Is a nice beach and the water is warm, but nice and clear. Mike and Marek went to the camp for lunch and brought things back for me to eat. We met some Polish people that Marek knows and I met the wives. We came back to apartment and then got ready to meet them for drinks at the beach. We only had snacks for dinner thinking that there we would have snacks at the beach. That didn’t happen so I ate the crackers and fruit we had at the flat when we got back. The ladies mostly speak Polish and a little English. I talked with them some, but mostly talked with the men, since they speak English better and the wives were discussing things in polish. Guess I may have to learn polish. They said they would take me this coming week. We will see how well we communicate then.


The hotel’s beach The view from the beach – bait shop
Saturday Marek, Mike, Thomas, and I went to Abu Dhabi to the mall. It takes about 2.5 hours. We stopped halfway for a break. It helps you not get sleepy, since the scenery is all sand. Mike wasn’t feeling well. So after looking at things didn’t buy anything. We mostly rested. Have found the bed I think will be best and a table and chairs. Will get the starter set of dishes and pots and pans from IKEA when we go back. The washing machines won’t fit in the space allocated for it in the flat. So it will have to go next to the refrig. Will have to get something to go in the space where it is suppose to go. I have decided that I will get a toaster oven and portable burners. Maybe a microwave too. Decided to wait and see if Borouge will pay anything for furnishing the flat before we go spending much. Found out I can go in the camp for a short visit (an hour maximum). So went after we got back and Mike brought me dinner from the cafeteria. He has TV, so watched that. The internet wasn’t working, so still no contact with the outside world. Borouge doesn’t know where the international phones are, so no calling anyone either.


We have no contract yet. They say they are negotiating it. Mike isn’t sure who they are negotiating with, it isn’t him. So he isn’t sure he wants to stay here. We will see. That is why we aren’t buying things yet. But maybe if I buy things he will decide to stay.

Sunday Mike went to work and I stayed at the flat by myself for the first day. He called and he got a car yeah. So we now don’t have to walk everywhere. I did go outside for awhile and decided I didn’t want to walk far. Had crackers and cheese for lunch. When Mike came home we went to the place to get internet service. He found out what he needs, so hopefully he can get all the forms tomorrow and turned in, so we can get internet soon. We ate at the rec center again. It was Indian food this evening. Not bad, but seems like pretty much the same thing all the time. The apartment smells we are on the ground floor and have open drains in the floor. They smell sometimes and the maintenance people come and take off the cover and stick their hands down it and push things around. It takes the smell away. So no more smelly apartment. Yeah!! One of the pipes of water has a leak it is in a closet so one of the floors of the small closets is wet. But since the floor in those closets is lower than the flat floor we don’t have water in the flat. They are supposed to fix it this week; they have to get in the apartments above us. Guess we are lucky we get to hear everyone shower or turn on their water. But it could be worse. It is a nice view from the kitchen so that I am thankful for.

It is Monday and I am writing this blog. I will see what else I get done today. Yesterday I did a cross word puzzle and picture puzzle and organized the things in the kitchen cabinets. Wow. But still feel a little jet lagged. I am getting up at 2 or 3 for an hour or so and read. But think I will soon get over that. Mike came home and went to play tennis at the hotel. So I tagged along. Thought I might be able to access the web from my computer, but not unless you are a guest. Next time will see about asking Thomas for his password and log in. He is staying there until his wife and two children come along with their furniture.

Tuesday I now have a routine. I get up and exercise for an hour or more, then either read or do a crossword puzzle. I am working on some yoga poses and can now do the tree for 1 min. Not a great accomplishment, but every little bit helps. It is one of the poses you do on the Wii fit. I am determined to keep in shape while I am here. After dressing I decide which craft I will work on and get the things I need for it. Today I made a necklace from wire and beads. Tried knitting, but decided I need help to move on. So that will have to wait. Two rows and I am stuck. Yarn over knitting and yarn over purling have me confused. Will get help with it when I visit my mom in NC, either from my mom or sister in law Carol. Went with Mike to the camp for dinner, even ate in the mess hall. Someone else has their wife with them, so Mike decided it was ok. After dinner we went to the activity room where I accessed the internet. Only had a little while before it closed, so didn’t get much done. Just checked on the bank accounts, of course Borouge wired the money to the wrong acct, so had to adjust payments and it took all my time. Maybe tomorrow I will be able to email people.
Thursday found out we have no internet in the apartment (flat) complex. I was not happy, but after a day or two calmed down and started thinking of solutions. Will probably get satellite service. Here it is rather expensive. Set up is over $200 US and monthly fee over $100 US. Since we aren’t sure what the company will pay for us living here we are waiting to see what happens with the contract. But I am sure whether they pay or not I will get internet. Mike wants to make sure I am happy. He is surprised by how I have not complained and taken things in stride. Thursday is the drinking night. So we went to the bar at the local hotel. The men from the camp pay for a bus to take them and bring them back. Since if you get stopped and have any level of alcohol you are deported. I had OJ while Mike had a beer. But like all bars it was loud and smoky. Next time I think we will have drinks on the beach. That is so much nicer.

Friday is their Sat. So we got ready for the trek to the desert. After packing we got our laundry and dropped it off at the camp. Ate lunch at the camp and then left in Marek’s company car. We were to meet at the LIWA hotel about 2 hours away. It is on the Liwa Oasis – the blub says the Fertile Crescent shaped oasis bordering the vast Rub Al Khali Desert (known as the “Empty Quarter”). They had snacks and then instructions – when we stop deflate tires to the pressure of 18. When driving use low gear they will pull out if we get stuck. We didn’t have a gauge and when we did the tire I deflated was at 17, the others were 18, 16, and 11. But we told it was ok. So off we went. Marek and Mike drove the first day. We got stuck once and dug ourselves in so had to be pulled out. But we weren’t the only ones. We were a big group (34 cars besides the tour guides). Later were told it was too many, next time they would only allow 10 cars. We got to a camping spot around 6 pm. You picked your spot and then grabbed your tent, sleeping bags and pillow seat. Glad Mike knew what he was doing I wasn’t sure if I would have figured out the tent. We then pumped up our blow up beds and we were ready for night time. It was hot, but cooling off. They said when the sun went down it would get cool, but didn’t feel it yet. The bathroom facilities were over a dune and find a private spot. It was a far walk to find a place to squat outside of the range of site and one must be careful not to step where others had stopped or your shoes could be dirty. Much better in the dark to find some place. The stars were wonderful. The guide pointed out Venus, Mars, Saturn, etc. They cooked potatoes, beef, lamb chops, and chicken. It was a feast and enough no one went hungry. After supper they started a fire and some of the children roasted marshmallows. We went to bed early some stayed up late. You can hear lots in the desert at night. Did not appreciate the man who used the facilities right behind our tent. There was evidence of it in the morning.


Next day we awoke and had breakfast. I made Mike walk the dunes with me and be look out while I used the facilities. It was a rather long walk, but dune walking is interesting. Several of the group left. So instead of 34 cars we were down to about 24. A Volvo was too heavy and kept sinking in the sand so it went back. They would never have made it. I drove three times and got stuck every time. The first time was when two cars ahead stopped and we either stopped or ran into them. Afterwards learned you just go around them if possible. But the guide got in the car and drove it off, no pulling. Mike, Marek and I all got stuck at least once. The last time I got stuck we were to go over a side of a slight hole and the car slide sideways into the hole. I tried to drive out, but ended up getting stuck, the guide had to pull us out. But when he came to investigate he saw a better pathway and had everyone else go that was, since I was the second car to get stuck there. We were suppose to get back to the roadway at 2, but didn’t make it until 5pm. The best drive was the one Marek had, you go straight down the dune to the bottom. Just drive off the edge and let gravity do the work. Of course after we all got down the guides drove down quickly. They used gas and we were told no way. You might have flipped if you made a mistake. But dune driving is definitely fun. I can see my son Bryan having a great time. We got back and after inflating the tires back to proper pressure, I made them stop back at the hotel to use the facilities. Enjoyed a real bathroom and sink where I brushed teeth and washed as much as possible. When we got to Gyahita sp?, the car got washed and cleaned. It looked like a new car again. We even got back to the camp in time for dinner. Ate and packed then came back to the flat. It was a long but good day.

Home

I am in Sugar Land still. I visited all my children. Trish and Bryan the weekend after arriving in Houston. Amanda the first weekend in October. It was parents weekend at TCU. I didn't do any of the parent activities, except the football game. Instead we visited and went shopping. She now has a table to eat meals on and two chairs to sit in while she eats. Found Wii fit while we were shopping so bought the game and played with it before I left. It said I was about my age and slightly overweight. So guess I will work at losing some of that weight. I enjoyed the Wii fit and am practicing my yoga, so when I come back I will be able to master the techniques.


Amanda had fall break starting Wed. so she came home and was going to take me to the airport. But Thursday morning Mike called and there was a slight problem, so I didn't leave. I will leave in about 10 days. I am thinking Oct 20 or 21. So that way I can vote early and not hassle with absentee voting. We will see what happens. Now that Ramadon is over and peoples vacations are ending, maybe the problems can get resolved. But I can work on my quilt I started over a year ago and a few other projects. Might even get motivated to work on the flower beds in the front yard. But I will see if I can visit some more with my friends before I leave and enjoy the things in the states while I am here.

Back home Sept 24

Sat. Trish and I went shopping in Birmingham. We mainly just window shopped, did get a few things. Ate at the Tavern, it was good and we could watch the Alabama game on their tv. So was fun. Spent all day and when we got home Trish went over to a friends to visit.



Sun. I hung curtains and pictures while Trish studied.



Monday I finished up the rest of the chores and talked to the men about mowing Trish's backyard. Not sure they really want to do it, but got two quotes one for $30 and another for $35. Her yard is tiny and I get my yard in TX done with flower beds weeded for less than that. Oh well may go back to getting a mower. Took Trish and three of her friends out to dinner before I left on Tuesday to Desperados Steakhouse. It was good steak and the girls really liked the mashed potatoes. Was a fun evening.



Tues. I drove to New Orleans. Before I left I got a call from Ruth and she told me Sue Beigler had died. She suffered from ALS. She will be missed. Bryan, Marj and I went out to dinner at Pascal's Manale. Didn't get the bbq shrimp which they are known for, but what we had was good. Really liked my asparagus/shrimp soup. They thought it was good too.


Wed. I returned the rental car after jumping the blue taurus. It is old and doesn't like sitting in the garage. Then did some errands.

Thurs. cleaned and straightened things up. Had dinner with Pat Baker and Debra Gallemore. We caught up on what was going on with every one's family. They are doing fine and Debra in a grandmother again. Debra still doesn't have electricity. Hopefully she will get it soon.

Friday had lunch with Pat Dickerson. Also called a roof person to put a chimney cover on our chimney. He will do it on Monday of next week. Yeah!!!

The weekend was quiet. I fed Ruby (neighbors dog) while they went on a NASCAR driving weekend. They told me it was a lot of fun. Hung the plates back in the kitchen and other pictures that were sitting in my room. Hadn't rehung them since I had the house painted this past spring. Went to church and visited with friends there.

Monday I went to my old bible study. Was great seeing everyone again. Afterwards we went to lunch. Enjoyed catching up with everyone. Afterwards I mailed packaged, deposited checks, and got my hair cut. It is really short now. Figured I needed it short for the middle east. Talked with Mike he has a five day weekend. He will try to keep busy. He is adjusting well to the middle east. He is still in the hotel and probably will be there until I arrive. Then we will settle into our accommodations. Looks like we will be in the company complex. Let you know what it is like when I find out.

Home for a visit after Ike Sept 15

Sad to leave Jay and Ruth's had a great visit. Arrived home Monday, but it was dark so couldn't see much damage. No trouble getting a rental car, they were all stored at the airport I think. Had lots of choices. There was an accident on the beltway so it took me over an hour to drive home, but that was ok, I was home.



Tues. went through most of the mail in the morning. Had a letter from the deed restriction office - needed to trim the bushes. Since my neighbor Patti raked my front yard, I didn't have much hurricane damage to fix, so trimmed the bushes and thinned out the lariope(sp?). Carrie next door invited me for breakfast. It was delicious - pancakes, bacon, and sausage. Then I came home and got together the things Trish wanted. Will leave tomorrow and visit with her for the weekend.

Wed left for Tuscaloosa. I went to New Orleans and had dinner with Bryan and Marjorie his girlfriend. It was late, so spent the night with him. We ate at Upperline - it was nice. In the morning I stayed around and we went lunch with Bryan. We ate at Crabby Jacks - they have huge po-boys - I only ate half of mine so Bryan has another leftover for lunch tomorrow.
Got to Tuscaloosa on Thursday in time for dinner. Trish and I went out to eat. She told me all the things she would like done while I am here and I will see what I get to.

Fri - I tried weedeating the backyard. The weedeater I brought from home didn't work. So looked into buying a new one. Met a yard man in Home Depot - he explained the different items to us and said why didn't we hire someone. Told us to look in the phone book. But after talking some more he will come out and give us an estimate on the cost to mow her backyard. Trish is keeping busy with law school, so doubt she would keep up with the lawn mowing anyway. We will see what he quotes. We went to the movies and saw The Women. We enjoyed it, Trish says she may get the movie when it comes out. Not sure I liked it that much.

Heard from Mike - went driving around exploring - he put his feet in the Indian Ocean. Said he will try to check out the housing in Ruwais - saw the camp for single people, but not the married housing. Guess I will find everything out when I get there.

Last week in Seoul

Monday I was hoping to hear the exact time of departure, but that was not to be. It is now Wednesday and we aren't sure if we will be leaving. The powers to be have not yet authorized his travel, so we will wait and see what happens.

Tuesday I went to the AWC (American Women's Club) meeting to say Hi and Bye to my friends. They have a raffle at the end and I got a lovely necklace. Actually Ina got the necklace, but she only wears two necklaces so gave it to me as a parting gift. She is so sweet. After the meeting we went to eat at Buddas Belly in Itaewon then coffee and to the express bus terminal for shopping. Liza had to get some groceries and I needed to get out of the apartment. I stayed home all day yesterday and was getting tired of sorting and going through papers.

Wed. I went to the craft class at Oakwood. We made two flower hair ribbons. It was fun. Mike came home from work so I could go, since the packers were to come. They came, but no boxes and not a big enough car to take our stuff. So after the secretary translated, DHL said they would be back before 4 pm. Then I went to lunch at Mita's since it was my last week. I thought it would be just her and me, but it was a surprise lunch with the girls from Oakwood. The picture is of the girls, Leanne had to leave before the photo. The food was great and it was a total surprise. I had a good time. The packers came back, but they just threw things in boxes and said they would pack at their office. So off they went. Mike and I went to La Grilla to celebrate getting things packed up.

Thurs. work gets an email from the packers what to do with the things that they would not pack and send. They couldn't pack playing cards or Mike's medicine. Told them to bring them back to our room before 10am tomorrow. Also found out that the tickets have not been approved for our travel. After a few more phone calls and some hassle they were approved. But with Ike threatening we changed my reservations to have a stop in Los Angeles before going to Houston. Mike will go straight to Dubai and get a car to Abu Dhabi. We ate at On the Border for our last meal in Seoul and ran into Debbie and Gene. So we ate and visited with them.

Friday. Finished packing, but Mike waited for the DHL packages. He took me and my bags to the City Air Terminal and then we came back for an hour before I would have to leave for the airport. DHL came at 9:30am and we went to the air terminal. I went to the Korean Air lounge to wait for Mike. He caught up with me around 10:45. We had some food then walked the terminal. I left for LA and he went to the Korean craft area and made a hanji box and got to play a flute. Which according to him, he couldn't make it make a sound. But he got to keep it. It was a good way to spend his free time before his flight. I arrived in LA and Ruth was waiting for me. On the way home from the airport we stopped for lunch and caught up with what was happening. She told me that IAH (Houston airports) were closed at 10 am Fri. morning. We watched the hurricane news, had dinner and watched the new some more. Mike called to tell me he arrived safely in Abu Dhabi and was staying at the Hilton. I also talked to my mom and the girls to let them know we were fine. Couldn't get in touch with Bryan. I fell asleep and finally decided I needed to go to bed and did.

Sat Watched the news and wondered why when there was mandatory evacuation about 10,000 people stayed on Galveston Island. They were lucky the storm surge wasn't as high as predicted. Talked with my neighbor, my house is fine, the only damage she noticed was the chimney cover blew off. But she found one in her front yard and it is in my garage now to be put back on. No electricity yet and it may be awhile. My plans now are to stay in LA until Monday and fly home. But that depends if they are flying into Houston and I can get a rental car. My neighbor Carrie said if the electricity is still off tonight she will clean out my refrig and freezer. I have great neighbors. Jay and Ruth went to a social event tonight and I am watching their dog Toots. Toots and I had a good dinner and are watching tv. I will probably go to bed soon, since I still feel a little jet lagged.

Sunday I checked with my neighbor again to see if I would be able to get home. She told me they now have electricity. So that is good news and grocery stores are open. Yeah!! So I am getting ready to fly home. Not sure if I will have a rental car available or not, but getting to Houston is good. Will let you know how that goes later.

This weekend Mike got a call asking him when he was coming to Abu Dhabi and on Monday got another one saying he needs to be there. So looks like we will be going sooner rather than later. He still doesn't have a contract, but has been told he will soon.

Well they don't celebrate Labor Day in Korea. But I took a day of rest and watched the hurricane news. Glad that New Orleans levees survived and that Bryan was safe in Alabama. Did go exercise in the evening with Mike, so maybe I will maintain my weight, since I can't seem to lose any. It is Mike's fathers birthday. But forgot to call and wish him a Happy Birthday. Hope he had a good one.

Tuesday we to Kim's brauhaus for lunch with Ina, Liza, Collen, and Ruth. Had a great time visiting. Ruth's mother and sister are coming for a visit and Ina's sister is to arrive today. Colleen leaves for holiday in England and France on Friday. So they all will be busy. Mike and I needed some papers notarized, so went to the US embassy. It closes at 3:30 and we arrived at 3:20, so had 10 minutes to spare. Afterwards we went to Itaewon and ate at Hard Rock cafe and then walked around. It was a nice evening, so we got some exercise then came home by subway. Looks like I need to start packing, but since I am a procrastinator, I will probably wait until next week.

Thursday my embroidered boxes came. Love them Then I went to book club with Liza, Ina, and Colleen. We ate in Itaewon first at the Flying Pan then went on to Elizabeth's house in Itaewon where the meeting was this month. We discussed Eat, Pray, Love. Ok book, but no one raved about it. Afterwards we went shopping in Itaewon. Colleen bought a Louis Vuitton purse for her sister who she is going to visit on Friday and a wallet to match. I purchased a suitcase, since we gave the girls one of ours when they came for a visit, so they could take the souvenirs home.

The weekend was slow. We just went through things and rested for the upcoming week. Sunday was Todd Tapley's 40th Birthday. They just moved to Seoul with their two children from Sugar Land. We went to his party, just stayed a short while since moving day is quickly approaching.

Week of Aug 24

Wed. the 26th I went shopping with Colleen. We went to Insadong and I bought another brush for my display. While we were there Ina called and said she would go with us to Namdaemun. We ate at Spaghetteria, it was ok.

Thurs. I met Ina and Colleen at Naebong where they live and we taxied to Namdaemun. Found the embroidered boxes I wanted as a souvenior. Ended up getting them, they are making them and will deliver Sept. 4. Can't wait until they get here. We ate at the OKitchen in Itaewon. Was a fun day. Mike and I went to the gym when he got home.

Friday - went to Oakwood's ladies coffee. Afterwards 5 of us went to Garak market. We bought fresh veggies and fruit. It is definitely and interesting place to go. Some of the things you have to buy large quanities, since they sell to the restaurants here. Amiee and Meeta are buying fish at the market there. Most of them are alive until you buy. We got a little wet from the fish flopping around in the low water they were in. You have to be willing to walk in the smelly water there.

Sunday - we had a picnic by the river. There were about 14 from Oakwood who went. We left at 3pm. Had food, some of the guys played soccer and visited. Had a good time and got to know some of the spouses. Garrick and Alan are playing football.

Week of Aug 17, 2008

Sunday morning we got up early and met the Rantas at Butterfinger Pancake. Attached are a few of the menu items. The Koreans tell it like it is. It was delicious. After breakfast we all came back to Oakwood and played Sequence and watched the Olympics. We saw Phelps win his 8th medal. Then it was time for lunch. We ate at On the Border. It was good too. Then went shopping. Mike got the cords he needs for hocking the ipod up to the tv so we can watch tv shows and movies on the tv. The Rantas have rented movies and said it was good.



The menu items didn't transfer from the phone so here they are:



Morning After

Big Fat Jay's Special

The Big Fat Special



The Koreans say it like it is.





Monday was gym day and shopping. Swam in the morning and then got ready for grocery shopping. Got good snacks on the whole, but did get a few cookies at costco. Forgot my peaches in the van, and when they first called me said I got my fruit, then realized I also bought peaches. So had to call back and tell them the peaches were mine. When Mike got home we went to the gym and he hit golf balls and then treadmill. I did the treadmill and bike and a few of the machines. Then for dinner we went to Pho Hoa (a Vietnamese noodle restaurant) Afterwards I wanted a flaked ice dessert, so we went and had one at Paris Baguette. Not as good as the ones at Paris Croissant. The ones tonight had marshmallows in it.



Tuesday - my ear was bothering me, so went to the clinic at Mike's work. Found out I had an outer ear infection. The dr told me to be sure and rest, with infection I should be tired. Definitely listened to that and came home and napped til Mike got home. Of course on the way home I stopped at Paris Croissant and had a flaked ice dessert and I ate it all by myself. Mike also sent an email on favorite Korean restaurant http://kr.youtube.com/rekordronny It is really scary and not for those with quesy stomachs. Unfortunately it has backfired, his Korean coworkers that he sent the link to want to take us to the restaurant. They enjoy it and say it is really good. Since I was to take it easy, we went out to dinner at Trombola (an Italian restaurant) It was good and we enjoyed it. I even ate the mushroom soup, which was ok. I went to bed early, missing the Olympic coverage.



Wed.- I slept in and watched the Olympics. Did go shopping and found shoes for our weekend rafting trip. I had left my water shoes at home and we need them for rafting. Thought I would have to by men's shoes, but they had crocs in big sizes - went up to size 10 for women. So I am set for rafting. We ate at Oakwood's new refurbished restaurant. It was good, but the mushroom soup wasn't as good as Trombola.



Thurs. - Liza, Colleen, and Ina came to Oakwood to eat lunch. We went to On the Border. Had a good lunch and visit. Caught up on what has been happening with everyone. Afterwards we went to Starbucks for coffee. I had water. Cooking dinner tonight. We will have pork ribs and veggies. Mike went to exercise while I cooked dinner.

Friday - We went out to dinner and I had a lazy day of resting.

Sat. - We got up early to go rafting. Made it in time for the bus and left to the Handang river. It was lots of fun, but the itinerary was changed. Since it rained Friday, the river was up and no bungee jumping and we went to a few sites since rafting was postponed and instead of a two - three hour trip we had an hour trip. The river was about 2 meters higher than normal. After our trip we went to dinner with the Rantas at Tony Romas. Inhaled our food and had a good time.

Sun. - Rested after the trip and was lazy all day. I did get some laundry done. It was also Bryan's bd, so I emailed him a bd wish. Hope he had a good one.

Monday I went to lunch and met Debra at Chosun Deli. She had already eaten, but I sat with her and we visited while I ate. Mike got home and we went to the gym. After our workout I cooked dineer. We had leftovers of the pork and had bbq pork sandwiches.

Aug 8 - 16, 2008

Friday night was happy hour at Oakwood. We went down and played some pool, had sodas, and ate the snacks. Afterwards we watched the Olympics opening ceremony on the big screen in the lounge. Since it was in Korean, the staff interrupted some of it for us. Was interesting to hear things, but having no idea what they were saying.

Sat. we watched the opening ceremony on the armed forces network, so it was in english. Finally new what really was happening.

Sunday had invited the Rantas(Colleen and Tim) to go on an Oakwood outing to a show called Jump. It is a non-verbal show based on Taekwondo. It was a good show and we enjoyed it. They picked Tim out of the audience to have a part in the show. He did a wonderful job. We ate at On The Border before we went to the show. After the show the bus stopped at the Cheonggyecheon stream and saw the burial stones for an emperors mistress. The emperors son removed them and used them for a bridge. (The picture above and below shows some of the stones) Then we ate at a Korean restaurant and had ginsing chicken soup.

On Monday Mike was to take the secretaries to lunch. But one went on vacation, and the other had plans he didn't find out about until later. But he invited me to go along, so three of us (Mike, Alisha, and me) went to Pho Hoa (Vietnamese Restaurant) It was good, but way too much food. Afterwards we stopped at Paris Croissant and had something called Flaked Ice with red beans and fruit. Wasn't sure how I would like the beans (since I am not a vegetable eater), but it was great.

Tuesday was lunch to say goodbye to some at Oakwood and welcome to some others. We ate at Marco Polo a restaurant on the 52nd floor in the coex. It was great, we had a private room and had a great view. We could see the learning courses for buses and taxis. There were even some driving on the course while we watched from above.

Wed was flower decorating class. I swam before the class, for my first day of exercise for the week. We made an arrangement, and the teacher told us where to get more flowers to make another and how much each bunch should cost - anywhere from 1 - 2.50 US dollars. We will see if I make another or not. I think the teacher has gotten use to us westerners. We do are own thing and don't follow directions very well. She usually tells me I didn't do it right - it is bad, but this time she said fine. But she did say it was european design, so probably more leaway in doing it. Oriental is very exact I have found out.

Thursday Mike went fishing with his work group after lunch and got home after midnight. So he had a long day. They had sushi on the boat for a snack and cooked the rest of the catch when they got back to shore for dinner. Had fish head and their insides made into a soup. Not sure anyone ate that. Mike didn't, at least he said he didn't. I spent the day with Colleen and we went shopping and then played Sequence until Tim came home. I was lucky and beat her. We played two games with Tim and Colleen won one and Tim the other. After that we went to Tony Romas and had their ribs. They were delicious.

Friday was Korean Independence Day. So no work for Mike. But he got a call from Paul who is his boss and works for Borealis. (Mike is working for Borouge the other partner in the joint venture). He wanted to take us to dinner. I suggested Marco Polo since he hasn't seen much of Korea. It was lovely and they had fire works on the water which we watched during our meal. We got back from dinner around 11 pm. We watched some Olympics on the AFN (armed forces network) then went to bed.

Sat. I got up for the hotel's Korean class, only to find out it was canceled. But they didn't tell me. So we went to the gym and swam. Mike walked and kicked in the pool, while I swam. Then for a treat we went to Paris Croissant and split a flaked ice with just fruit, no red beans. Was really good. I cooked dinner and we watched the Olympics. We see a lot of other sports that you don't see much of in the states. I have seen archery, table tennis, judo, weight lifting, badminton and anything else the Koreans are playing in. It is interesting because I recognize words like smash and swish. You can tell when they are excited, but most of the time have no clue why.

That is all for this week. Tomorrow we are meeting the Rantas at Butterfinger Pancake for an american breakfast and then they will come here and we will play some games.

Aug 3 - Aug 9

Slow week.

Monday went shopping with the hotel. Stopped at the flower mart on the way. Purchased some cut flowers and an orchid. Not the greatest at flower arranging, but makes the room feel a little homier. Also went to costco and got Mike a classic Ipod for his birthday. Now he can listen to music on the subway ride to and from work. It holds 80 G which I don't think he can fill, but we will see. Decided he didn't need the 160G. I also went swimming in the morning before shopping so did some exercise.

Tuesday Colleen and I went to Ipark. It is an electronic mart. Colleen had previously purchased a cover for her ipod touch that I liked, so we went to that vendor and I bought a cover for my touch and Mike's classic. We went to Itaewon to eat lunch. As we were leaving the subway we noticed all the riot police, but went in the front door to Hard Rock Cafe as the police were next to the side door. Remembered that President Bush was in Korea that day. We did go to a foreign market and bought frozen green beans. They aren't easy to find here.

Wed tried to go to the gym, but no luck. It is closed the first Wednesday of the month. I forgot, but didn't get all the way there. A fellow hotel guest told me as she was exiting the elevator that it was closed. So I just walked the coex.

Thursday I went swimming again at the gym. After rinsing off in the pool shower, found my goggles were gone. So now I have to get another pair. I was really surprised, because the Korean's rarely take things that aren't theirs. Guess some parent thought they were their childs.

Friday we went to Happy Hour at the hotel. Played several rounds of pool. With another couple played a few rounds of 9 ball. I am getting better, but have a long way to go. Afterwards we watched the opening ceremony of the Olympics. Was different seeing it and hearing it in Korean. The staff did interrupt some of it for us. Watched it Sat. and it made mor sense. Found out how the countries came in, by strokes since China has no alphabet. And why they kept showing the shoes. Didn't realize the athletes were making the prints on the fabric. It was really amazing though.

Well better get moving today so the cleaning staff can clean for me.