“I am not the same having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” ― Mary Anne Radmacher

Getting my traveling papers was quite an undertaking.  You may remember the numerous times I had to visit the stinky building and sit for an eternity until my number was called.  Then, I had to wait and wait for my final residency stamp.  Unlike many of the others who came over with me in August, I was unable to begin my travels and found myself here during EID and Thanksgiving while co-workers were off to enjoy the holidays in places like Jordan, Bahrain, Paris, Dubai, Kenya, and Egypt.  They were frolicking in foreign lands,  and I sat in my apartment quietly counting the ways in which my life had already changed.  In those few short months, I understood how it feels to be a foreigner in a strange land with limited to no words in my repertoire of the native language (Shout out to the girls for teaching me and gladly quizzing me on a daily basis).  And although I wasn't traveling to exotic places, I was acutely aware that I was experiencing new cultures every day through my interactions with the teachers in my building who are from Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, London, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, the Caribbean Islands and India.  Even though, I was already expanding my thinking just by listening to stories of their home countries, I was feeling very antsy and looking forward to a bite from the travel bug!!!!!

On November 16, it finally came!  Although too late to plan a trip for Thanksgiving, I finally got my passport back with my residency stamp and received my civil ID.  It was definitely on and popping from that moment forth.  I was off and flying the friendly skies and have no plans to stop.  I have visited countries I once only read about in books and dreamed of visiting after watching shows on the travel channel.  

Sri Lanka

Malaysia

My first stop, as you know, was Dubai with Camryn for Christmas.  Then I was off to Malaysia to present some of my favorite instructional strategies to a captive audience at a curriculum summit.  PD takes on a whole different meaning when it's in another country and your captive audience is truly an international one.   I was thrilled about visiting here as it is the home of one of my best girlfriends, and she armed me with a list of delicacies I was not to leave without sampling.  She set me up with one of her friends who took me to the local haunt so I could eat like a native,

Thailand

and I successfully sampled every dish but one during that night on the town. Next, I was on to a much needed and absolutely relaxing long weekend in Sri Lanka.  I admired and envied the local people's contentment with the simplicity of life. Sri Lanka is also where I first experienced being mistaken as a Nigerian (LOL).  Then, spring break rolled around, and I found myself landing safely in Thailand where I enjoyed the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and the beauty of Phuket.  Bangkok is something to behold and definitely left a lasting impression.  Phuket brought out my adventurous side.   I snorkeled, canoed,  and explored caves.   Now, I am eagerly anticipating my next destination, a mini tour of Europe with Camryn and my mom (London, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Rome) before I head home for the summer.

We finished the school year during Ramadan now, so daily life has been adjusted.  Our work hours were reduced to 5 (8am - 1pm) which has been great for getting in a nap.  It's around this time that everything closes down and reopens again at sun down (restaurants around 6:30, stores again at 8) staying open until 1 or 2 am.  I tried the late day shopping but am obviously not equipped for such late  night happenings.  Nonetheless, not wanting to miss the opportunity to  soak up more of the culture and expand my knowledge, I attended a Ramadan information session at the Aware Center and enjoyed an Iftar buffet after.   I came away with a deep respect for the strength (physical and spiritual) it takes to fast (no food or water) each day from sun up to sun down, especially in these 115+ temps.

During these nine months, I have found a renewed joie de vivre and gained a new appreciation for living comfortably and happily with the bare minimum. I have refused to buy anything that would not fit into my suitcase, and if it did, it had to have little to no impact on the baggage weight limit for traveling.  I understand what it feels like to feel alone or lost in a swarm of people. I have learned that patience with myself and others must be practiced.  I have stretched my thinking and adjusted my perspective in many facets of my life.   I have altered the lines of my comfort zone, and these days, Inshallah rolls very easily off my tongue.  In the evenings when I sit in quiet reflection, I am often reminded of a meme that best summarizes the entirety of this experience: Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.  I nod to myself emphatically.  I have certainly bought my fair share of travel, broadened my outlook on life, and am, most definitely, richer for it all. 

“I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life's a bitch. You've got to go out and kick ass.” - Maya Angelou

This blog is supposed to be about my travels and journeys, but there is no way I could pass up the chance to veer from the path for just a minute to shout out my fave girl.

All of Camryn's life, I made decisions with the thought that what lay ahead would always provide us with better than we had.  Each new job I took meant big changes for her, changes that, to a child, were life shattering.  She moved from school to school (9 in total) from the time she entered until she graduated last June.  She would make friends and then be forced to leave them shortly thereafter. She learned to be alone in a crowded room and be completely OK.  She had grown accustomed to being the new girl, and while many would have worn that badge like a scarlet A, she seemed to place it squarely on her chest more as a badge of honor that screamed, "You should get to know me.  It just might change your life." LOL  She grew more confident in herself with each passing year.  She is funny, smart, personable, sometimes moody and a bit mouthy, but always affectionate and extremely compassionate.

2017 Convocation

Over the years, she was thrown a lot of those proverbial curve balls.  With the death of Papa at the midpoint in her 9th grade year,  I worried about how she might find her footing again, but it was wasted worry.  She kept marching to the beat of her own drum and never took a misstep academically.   She landed each quarter of every year very safely on the honor roll, her resilience and motivation on constant display.    She finished high school as an honor graduate (earning a full scholarship along the way) and focused her sights on college.  Little did she know, the new curve ball coming would be the biggest yet and test the very strength of her being.

With my decision to move to Kuwait, she was forced to grow up in a way she probably never imagined.  She was essentially on her own at 16 and would have to become an adult, ready or not.  All I could do was pray that once again this change wouldn't be catastrophic for her, and as always, she keeps meeting and beating the challenges placed before her.

She tackled her first semester by taking on 18 hours and another 17 second semester.   Because of the credits she earned while in high school, in January she was classified as a sophomore and has earned her rightful place on the Freshman Honor Roll and the Dean's list. Her travels here to visit me during the holidays have opened up new ideas for her, and she is even considering studying abroad so she can continue to travel the world.

As we countdown to her 18th birthday this August, I am faced with accepting that my fave girl is definitely growing up.   I absolutely love watching who she is becoming and am super proud of all that she has accomplished.  She has definitely gone out and grabbed the world by the lapel, kicking ass and taking names along the way.  I can't wait to see what life has in store.   I just hope the world is ready for her because she is coming!!

"Life is either a great adventure or nothing." - Helen Keller

Christmas Dinner at Benihana

Christmas Vacation with my Fave Girl!!!

Excited doesn't even capture what I was feeling about finally reuniting with my fave girl.  We have never been separated for this long, and the 4 months were only eased through constant video chatting and social media posts.  I was eager to share with her my new home away from home and immediately began thinking about what adventures awaited us through travel.  It is absolutely realistic to make travel plans here without worrying about breaking the bank, and I was anxious and excited to begin my travel experiences with Camryn.

The first leg of our adventure originally included a trip to Cairo, Egypt, but recent unrest within the country gave me second thoughts about that journey (We will still go someday.),  so we settled on exploring some of the treasures of Kuwait to begin our adventure.  There are some nice shopping options, and I knew Camryn would love haggling with vendors at the souq.  Luckily, one suitcase she brought was full of items I requested from home (Dang, I forgot the grits!!),  and I think she was trying to fill it with things to take back.  At City Centre, a sonq-like shopping mall, she found some fabulous buys on Uggs and came away with three pairs, a couple pairs of platform sneakers and some super cute mesh loafers.  Later, we went out to the souq in Fahaheel and haggled with the shopkeepers over handbags and watches.  She bartered over a pair of Beats, while I warned her about authenticity to no avail.  She bought them anyway and left the with me. :-)    Nonetheless, we spent the day there and came home exhausted.

After a few days in Kuwait, we moved on to Dubai where the adventures took center stage.  There was no way I could have even imagined the shenanigans we could encounter.

Day 1 - From the moment we arrived at the airport, I should have heeded the signs that this trip was going to be full of twists and turns.  In spite of my strategic planning for an early flight (8:30) so we could be tourists and sightsee, we were grounded by extreme fog in Dubai that gave us a 2 hour-delay in an overcrowded airport.  After long lines in customs, we were finally able to check into our hotel around 4:30, completely exhausted.  Instead of venturing out, we decided to shower order room service, get an early night's sleep and be ready to go the next day.

Big Bus Ridin'

Day 2 - We started this day with the Big Bus hop on, hop off tour.  We had great seats on the upper deck and decided to just ride the entire route to see the city and hop off as we made our way around the second time to take in the local favorites.  Little did we know, our first hop off would be our only. Before we could even get to the sidewalk, we were approached by several men asking if we wanted to see goods ranging from handbags to pashminas to jewelry.  We followed two guys to a shop filled with fabric, and I mentioned that we wanted to see handbags.  He eagerly motioned for us to follow, and we were led down an alley to the back of building and into an apartment building.  Sensing my apprehension, the guy kept assuring me that it was okay and safe, just illegal!!!!!  He led us to an apartment door that opened to reveal a "store" with multiple displays of handbags, sunglasses, watches, etc. There wasn't a designer alive whose items weren't on display.  At first, I didn't see what I wanted, so one of the other guys quickly pulled a lever and the wall gave way to a secret panel in the display shelves that opened to a room  where he retrieved additional handbags...the kind of stuff you see in movies.  All of this made me nervous; I was sweating bullets and giving Camryn side eyes all the while calculating the distance from where I was standing to the door.     We made a couple selections; he offered a price; I declined; he lowered; I declined again and again and decided it was time haul tail. Just as we made it to the door, another man entered and joined in the banter.  He kept sidestepping, blocking our path, followed by one of the men who yelled at us because we weren't buying. I gave Camryn a knowing glance, and we made a mad dash through the door and to the elevator and got the hell out of there!!!  Once back on the main street, we caught our breath purchased some things from a few vendors there and journeyed back to the hotel with a story to tell.  I was hoping that would be the highlight of the day, but the fun just kept on coming.

Later that evening, we decided to hit the marina for dinner and boarded the metro.  Halfway through the ride, we discovered that we had boarded the train going in the opposite direction of our destination.  Going with the flow, we figured we would just ride it to the end and back until we found the restaurants...NOT!  As we approached the last stop on that line, we hear, "All passengers must exit the train!"  SMH  Laughing hysterically, we got off, boarded in the other direction and tried again for the marina.  When we got to the correct stop, and tried to exit the station, our metro passes would not work.  Seems we had crossed zones without proper tickets and  were sufficiently chastised by the policeman as he ushered us to the attendant to purchase new tickets.  Finally, at about 9:00pm, we made it to dinner at a Chinese/Indian bistro where the food was delicious and plentiful.  This was just day 2, and I still had high hopes the remainder would be a little less eventful, but it wasn't.  

Day 3 - We had big plans to visit the Dubai Mall  and Aquarium and the Burj Khalifa. The walk from the train station into the mall and down to the attraction was longer than The Green Mile!!  A stop at the restroom was definitely in order, so I navigated my way there while Camryn waited for me outside.  No sooner than I came out, she came walking over to me pretty quickly. It seems some random guy, pretending to be on the phone, started walking close to her and offered her some little packet of something he had in his hand.     Telling him, "No," she picked up her pace to come find me.  As she was telling me, we looked back to see him waving very happily at her.  He and his friend then followed us around the mall, into a crowed elevator and continued to follow us, waving until we go lost in the vast waiting crowd at the Burj Khalifa, yet another story for the books.  We finished this day with a trip to the aquarium, got henna tattoos and did some more shopping before retiring for the night.

Day 4 - We saved the best of our trip for last full day...the dessert safari.  We had a great driver who showed up in his crisp white dishdasha and a bright yellow hat with big black letters that said, "Tell me what you think?"  We drove quite a distance to the desert riding by rows and rows of power lines that looked like tall women waving and beckoning us to come on join the fun. Rolling dunes and free roaming camel could be seen on either side.  We stopped at a small, crowded road side store where we could use the bathroom and grab some snacks.  Camryn held and posed with a falcon before we jumped back in the car only after getting the tires inflated for dune bashing.     Once in the desert sand, we spun, and thrashed, and screamed our way through the dunes.  At the campsite, we smoked shisha (yes, I let her smoke a little) got more henna tattoos and enjoyed the colorful and festive show of traditional dances.  We ended the evening with a late snack at Denny's and rang in the New Year together in the comfort of our cozy hotel beds.   

Day 5 - By day 5, we were both ready to go and had our fill of Dubai and all the foolishness.  After breakfast and a stop in the mall to pick up more stuff to fill her suitcase for the return flight to the states, we caught the train to the airport, each of our arms loaded down with bags.  Of course as luck would have it, somehow between the first and last stops, Camryn put her Victoria Secret bag down and left it, and I was the one who had to go trudging back along the route to find it not really believing that I would, but I did!  (A testament to the people and their beliefs, someone had given it to a guard on duty, and the bag was returned with all of its contents.)  At last, we boarded our plane and ended this trip just as we had started it...with a delay.  One hour and 20 minutes later, we were on our way.  

Two days later, my fave girl boarded a flight back home, and I have been counting down the days till we are together again!!!  Summer 2017 is sure to be a blast!!!

“Just 'cause there's snow on the roof doesn't mean there's not a fire inside.” ― Bonnie Hunt

I saw a sign once that said, "Age doesn't really matter unless you're a cheese." That thought has popped back into my mind repeatedly over the last week as February 2nd inched closer and closer and I processed growing older but definitely better.

Hopping out of bed on my birthday morning, I admittedly felt a tinge of sadness. I live on the other side of the world, and this birthday would not be spent with my family. There would be no traditional dinner at a local eatery. I was going to begin my birthday 8 hours before my older brother, first at last!   As I got dressed while watching my guilty pleasure since 1989, The Bold and the Beautiful, I noticed my knees seemed to crack a little louder when I stooped to pick something up. I caught a glimpse of the sliver sparkles in my hair and swear they seemed to be a little more intense and plentiful (Camryn once told me my grey hair reminded her of Easter basket grass...smh.), but undaunted I touched up my curls so they wouldn't go awry and carried on. I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out, but I headed to work ready to embrace 45 and make it a great day.  

It was a typical day at ACA. MAP testing was on the schedule to complete before the end of the day, and we had a late afternoon assembly. I was going to be busy as usual, but it was definitely starting on a good note. Some teachers ordered my favorite chai latte for me, and of course, I couldn't pass up the chance to add a scrumptious mushroom, egg and swiss croissant to go along with it, the breakfast fit for a birthday queen. When I strolled down the halls I enjoyed the many happy birthday shouts from the students as they passed. I even got a full rendition of "Happy Birthday" sung first in English then Arabic when I entered one 9th grade class to start their tests. I am sure they saw every one of my teeth when I smiled. And it got better. As I worked my way to the stage during the awards ceremony, I was serenaded again this time by the entire school...what a rush!!!! The girls decorated my office and brought me some of my favorite things, none of which I needed, but all of which I thoroughly enjoyed (cookie cake, cheese stuffed bites, and cupcakes with 18 sitting atop two). Although I had to push past a great annoyance that threatened to steal all my joy midway through the day, I had to remember that I wasn't cheese and I was going to celebrate this day of growing a year older. Yes, I was turning 45, feeling 18 in my head, and had a pep in my step.

I ended the day with good food, blueberry shisha, a whole lot of laughter and welcomed conversation that swerved waaaay too far to the left, and I loved it!!! It was definitely a GREAT day. Life is good. I am smiling. I still have my teeth, and I am ready to set the world ablaze because age doesn't matter when you're having the time of your life.

PS - I put in my earbuds and actually remembered to turn on the music today!!! There is hope for me!

"What if today, we were just grateful for everything?" - Charlie Brown

When I first sat down to write this entry, I felt an overwhelming sense of anxiety and couldn't put my finger on the reason.   I was trying to categorize and organize all the things sloshing around in my head.  Yes, it was Thanksgiving, and no, I was not with family.  Yes, this was my dad's favorite holiday meal and, no I hadn't cooked the full meal since he passed.  Yes, I loved all of the dishes on the menu, and no, I didn't enjoy them as much I did when he was alive.   Each good thought was counterpunched by another, and I felt myself slowly sliding down that slope that I was sure would find me mentally curled in a fetal position rocking away the darkness.  I knew I had to dig myself out and quickly or the return could take a while.

I needed a feel good moment to happen so I trolled the internet in search of a posting of the full length holiday classic A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving to lift my spirits.  I loved all of these movies as a kid, and as an adult,  I quickly recognized the subtle humor peppered throughout.  A good guttural laugh and a few hearty chuckle-worthy moments into the film, and I could see the light again.   So I called upon the muse of Marcie, and let the feelings of thankfulness flow which culminated in this listing of things for which I am grateful today and everyday (in no particular order):

• Facial tissue because this dust is working up an allergy I have never had.  Tissue is now my best friend.  I suspect it's a combination of the cat dander and the desert dust that finds me reaching for one all too often throughout the day.
• My mom and her road dawg, Aunt Lauretta, my sister and my brother who have really stepped in to try to fill the void that was created in Camryn's life when I left.  They made sure she got settled into her new digs in college and ensure that she is in touch with family when she is feeling alone.  
• Cooler temperatures that allowed me take two leisurely walks today just to think of all the things going right in my life.  Camryn told me when I left that she hoped Kuwait would treat me well, and so far so good.  I am loving it here even with all of the challenges of residency, traffic, and the usual heat.  
• The Sultan Center cause it's a short walk from work and sells products from home like Tostitos chips, salsa and cheese dip.  
• Chips and dip cause I needed a snack before I headed to dinner tonight.  Besides that, this is my go-to meal when I am too tired to cook. 
• My cousin Jackie and her family who have taken Camryn in for the holidays and who I know are feeding her well.  I am especially grateful for C who scooped her up for the ride to Florida.
• Having my passport back although it came too late for me to make travel plans for this break.  I have already booked flights and hotels for my Christmas break travels and am reviewing my bucket list for spring break and summer.  
• An old friend who showed up unexpectedly in my life all the way over here in Kuwait and asked some questions that I have avoided hearing and avoided answering even more.  I can't wait to see what comes of this look in the proverbial mirror.  I suspect it's going to be GREAT!!   
• The kindness of others who have extended themselves to make a very happy Thanksgiving for everyone away from friends and family.  I am blessed to have two dinners on my schedule this holiday break, and even more blessed because I don't have to cook it or clean up afterwards.  #winning 
• Kuwait cucumbers, yes cucumbers.  OMG these are the best I have ever tasted and they are sized just right.  For me, they are like potato chips.  I can't eat just one!!  
• Pomegranate seeds sold by the cupful.  In spite of the youtube videos and the tutorial sent to my by the Elliott girls, Sarah and Erin (with Grant doing his own thing in the background), I have not found a way to cut one without making a mess. Think I'll stick with the cup.
• Technology that allows me to stay in daily touch with my those back home 24/7!
• The good fortune to have this opportunity to do the job I love and gain immensely through personal and professional contacts I am making here.  My eyes are wide open, and I am graciously receiving it all.  

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Life is short! Smile while you still have teeth!!

I know it's been a little bit since I've posted, but I have a good excuse.  I've been busy, very busy.  Remember, in one of my first posts I told you I had big plans just like that little mynah bird.  Well, I  have been deep in phase one of my plans and been busy doing a little bit of this, a little bit of that and a whole lot of nothing, which is everything I have wanted to do!!!

Surprisingly, time has passed very quickly.  It's November, and I am well into my 3rd month here.  The temperature has fallen with day temps in the upper 80s.  I have taken advantage of the pleasant weather by walking home from school or to the grocery store or sitting outside at a restaurant for lunch or dinner. Even though this transition has been exciting, it has not been without it's challenges, but I try to remember that life is short, AND I still have my teeth, so I smile.  

The residency process has been long and frustrating and I have not finished yet.  I completed Step 1 before I boarded the plane:   a battery of medical tests (I am sure I am the healthiest person on the planet after all of that.), verifying degrees through the clearing house and authenticating all of my documents at the state and federal levels before sending them to the Embassy for authentication.  Once I arrived and Step 2 began, I learned that all of the medical tests would be repeated along with a new passport photo session and fingerprinting.  While most only have to undergo the medical process once, because of all the mixups with my work visa (that I found out was cancelled only after I arrived) I was fortunate to have to go 3 times.  By the third trip there,  I knew that the struggle was absolutely real.  I entertained myself by making videos during each of those 4+ hour waits, long lines, unpleasant smells and facilities that caused more than a few wrinkles in my brow, but Snapchat helped me to smile and allowed me to share that smile and my teeth that I still have with others!!

We have just finished with 1st quarter at school and are now into the shortest 2nd quarter I have ever had.  It has only 22 instructional days and is inclusive of 7 days for exams...go figure!!!!  Teachers are scrambling to get material taught to mastery, reteach and review material as needed, create exams, and meet grading requirements.  I am still creating 2nd semester schedules (the entire scheduling process here differs from what I know), providing teachers with PD, observing instruction, etc.  I can happily say that I am fortunate to have some teachers on staff who are young and have been here for a few years and know the lay of the land.  They take me to places I haven't seen (the fabric souq, Cup Cafe for a little American-ish atmosphere, the Cocoa Room for American-like breakfast (I still struggle with Middle Eastern breakfast that is just, well, uh, food, any kind of food you want.  I had an egg wrap this morning that, along with the eggs, had french fries, cucumbers, and tomatoes...smh. But I digress.) These teachers allow me to share my silly videos with them, and on those days that I find my pressure rising and a headache coming on, they seem to sense just when I need some tomfoolery in my life and invite me somewhere that reminds me how short life is and that I should be enjoying every minute.  So I pretend I'm a bootleg Tyra Banks and have an impromptu photo shoot as I touch the back of my teeth with my tongue and smile cause I still have them.

Each day brings something new for me to learn and laugh about.  I spent more than a few seconds Tuesday trying to figure out the Arabic textbook.  Arabic is read and written from right to left so the back of the book is the front.  I couldn't figure out how to open it and must have flipped that book over 10 times before a student felt sorry for me and came to help.  Just this morning, I locked my apartment door, put the key in my bag and grabbed the handle to leave, realizing that I had just looked myself INSIDE instead of locking the door from the hallway.  More than I would like to admit, I am still getting in the elevator without going anywhere because I forget to press the button.   And at least twice a week, I find myself marveling in disbelief that I have actually packed my life into 3 suitcases and a carry on and moved across the world.  At this point, I am anxiously anticipating winter break, counting down the days till Camryn is here (one month from today), and living by the mantra that life IS short, and I smile as often as possible because I DO still have my teeth.  

"Venture outside your comfort zone. The rewards are worth it." - Rapunzel

When we think of the things in life that make us feel safe and secure, the list can be longer than anticipated once those things cease to exist or at least in the way we are most familiar.  Letting go of what we know and embracing what is can be scary, exciting, painful, and tremendous.  Life's experiences cause us to re-examine what we think and reshape what we thought to be true.  After being here only one month, here's what I know:

Creature comforts from home do exist, and I was happy to have them when I first landed, but I came for adventure so my shopping cart looks a little different with each trip I make to buy groceries.  The added plus is that these stores are a part of the mall, so I can do ALL of my shopping in one trip.  It's Wal-Mart on another level.  The downside, I somehow still manage to get lost on the taxi ride home and can never really figure out where I am or how to tell the driver to navigate the streets.  SMH

Clockwise from top left:

Remains of a Superfood Salad; one of many dishes served at 

Naranj; Cold Stone Creamery all the way in Kuwait; 

the options available at Tim Horton's, a Canadian favourite; 

If you want to eat it, Kuwait has it and will deliver it right to your door!!  It seems as if Kuwait is known by many as the food capital of the world, and this little app called Talabat makes it possible to to conduct your own in-home tastes tests with just a few clicks.  There is obviously no shortage of restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops, and I have been making my way around the dining scene, one restaurant at a time, and while I have found myself drawn to many of the known favourites, (Chilis, PF Changs, and Starbucks)  I have also enjoyed some unfamiliar options like a Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine that caused a party in my mouth!!.   There is a smorgasbord out there and I fully intend to sample them all even if it's while sitting on my couch!

There is a saying that goes a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.  Well here, a biscuit in the hand is worth 300GB.  That's right, I said 300. This little gadget (better known around town as a biscuit) is my mobile router that offers me 300GB, yes, 300GB, of data for about $15 a month.  I can video chat everybody!!!!  It fits in my pocket and keeps me connected wherever I am.  Someone needs to tell Verizon to get with the program.

Kids are kids everywhere!!!  They may come from different backgrounds, have different fundamental beliefs, be accustomed to different facets of living, and represent an array of physical characteristics, but they are still kids who want someone to hear them, care about them, set boundaries, and help them sort out what they see for their futures.

The music of the day and night here is a car horn.  I actually think drivers must be frustrated musicians and composers constantly engaged in a melodic battle to see whose note rings the loudest.

Riding in anything that moves is a serious test of faith!! Being an unlicensed driver is bliss because the rules of the road are like nothing I have ever experienced.   Round-abouts take on a whole different meaning when the right-of-way is given to the inside lane...say what now?  Sidewalks are not made for walking but for parking, and painted lines in the road are obviously just for decoration when two lanes on your side of the median quite easily become five if that's how you want to roll.   You know; Get in where you fit in!!!   For my time here, I'll stick to riding in a taxi with my eyes focused on my phone, so I can avoid looking at the road. Maybe that's why I keep getting lost...hmmm!!!

Swimming in the Gulf

The bakala (this country's version of a Quik Trip or 7-Eleven or Kangaroo) are at the bottom of almost every apartment building and give the idea of a convenience store new life.  What would cost me $6 -$8 in the US will usually be $3 or less here which is detrimental to my figure and my sugar and Lord knows neither area needs any added interference or pressure!!!

In the past few weeks, I have literally and figuratively jumped into the deep end.  Yesterday's boat trip
on the gulf to a little island in the middle of the sea was relaxing and refreshing.  Although I haven't yet let go of my fear of heights and didn't dare jump from the upper deck like so many of the others, when we stopped and anchored about 45 minutes from our island destination just to cool off and enjoy the sea, I wasted no time joining in the fun and checking off another thing on my bucket list. Now more than ever, I am anxiously and excitedly waiting for Camryn to come in December so we can share some of the adventures together.  I'm still working on my mom, but I think she's coming around.

Finally, there is ABSOLUTELY something new and beautiful to behold in the most unlikely places. Respect and reverence for lives lost extends around the world and demonstrates how turmoil affects everyone.  While the news and media can give you insight into what's happening elsewhere, we all need to be mindful that those views are not all encompassing.

The First Days

My first few days seemed to run together.  I kept asking everyone back home when I called, "What time is it there?"  I was often awake and on the phone at 3am because I was all out of sorts.  My phone showed local time and my tablet showed SC time and Alabama time.  I worried that I was never going to get these three time zones organised in my head.

But wait...let me fill you in on some of the happenings.  On the day of arrival, those us landing were greeted by the orientation team waiting patiently at Starbucks just outside baggage claim for us to clear customs.  Their smiling faces and cool bottles of water were a welcomed sight after two days of flying which included a 12 hour journey from New York to Dubai. (Shout out to Emirates airlines and the superb experience.  Food and beverage service was unending and $1 on-air wifi made it possible for me to use all of my apps to chat, text, and even call my family along the way.)

From the airport, we were whisked away to our respective furnished apartments and given a quick tutorial on how to operate appliances before being left to settle in for the evening.  The team had stocked our refrigerators with some grocery staples and left a welcome packet on the coffee table that included a prepaid SIM card with international minutes and a data plan.  I wasted no time swapping the cards, calling home and video chatting Camryn so that we could both settle our minds.  Shortly after, I headed to the shower and was off to bed completely exhausted.  The sun rises here fairly early so by 5am the skyline view from my apartment window is hazy but fabulous!

The View from My Apartment

The next day I met the other part of my school admin team: the principal, also new, and the middle school AP who is returning.  I will be the high school AP for the girls campus.  The three of us have been chatting via email since May and were eager to put faces to names over brunch.  I knew instantly this was going to be a great partnership when I heard loud knocking and unfamiliar voices in the hallway calling my name as I looked through the peephole to see all of this taking place at the apartment across the hall.  Meeting them was like being with old friends and hugs were definitely in order before we were off to brunch and a little shopping. I managed to get lost on the cab ride home, however, and felt badly for my driver who had to ride me around in circles for 5 minutes until I figured it out.  He must be use to that, though, because he gave me his card so I could call him in the future, and since he already knows where I live,  and I obviously don't, he will definitely be my guy!!

"Get busy living, or get busy dying!" - Morgan Freeman - The Shawshank Redemption

August 9th, I tearfully boarded that plane knowing I had just said goodbye to my fave girl, my chest tightening with every breath.  Was this the right thing? We were doing this all wrong.  I was supposed to be dropping her off not the other way around. Was she going to be okay without me.  More importantly, was I going to be okay without her!?  The tears just wouldn't stop coming.  I thought back over the last two weeks and realized how very full my life has been even with its ebbs and flows, it's highs and lows.  During those days, I focused my attention on Camryn, lining up all the things for her trek to college.  I constantly asked her if she was truly okay with this change.  We watched old home movies and laughed heartily at the foolishness that has always been our lives. We had our annual Lucas/Maybank Blowout (which doubled as my going away party), and I had a BLAST!!!   I spent time with my brother and sister and my niece and nephews, knowing that our interactions would soon be limited to phone calls, texts and video chats.  I hugged them both my siblings more tightly than I think ever have before. I wasn't going to see anyone for a year! I'd have to wait till next summer for spray chicken, vodka infused watermelon slushies, a rainbow of jello shots, and macaroni reminiscent of my grandma Helen Lucas's.  I texted my O'Neill cousins who wished me well and shared their  hopes for a safe journey.  I spent some quality time with my mom, eating our fair share of snacks and treats and vowing to make better choices with each bite. I awoke each morning (except one :-)) to the smell of childhood breakfast favourites - shrimp and cream of wheat, grits, bacon, sausage, and salmon patties - and being asked about dinner requests before I could finish eating.  I reached to hug her just because I needed to hug my mom.  I spent a few minutes with my sweet Sassi in her new home and knew she would be in good hands.

Of course, I missed my dad even more and went to the cemetery to make sure I still felt the same about my decision.  I knew if it wasn't right, he'd find a way to let me know, but that peace and serenity was as strong as ever.  And then I made my way to Charlotte to hang out with Camryn and my mom before boarding the plane.

I was nervously excited as expected and didn't sleep long before my alarm sounded, and then, I was off to begin this long awaited journey.  From Charlotte to New York to Dubai to Kuwait, I was watching my life's landscape change as if I were a patron at at movie theatre with only the tears falling from my eyes down my face to remind me that this was indeed my life, and so as I sit her at 1 in the morning on my bed in my new home on the other side of the world, I am comforted by the fact that I am definitely getting busing living cause I refuse to die with the regret of never trying.  #TAOA

Just Doin' Me!!

                                                                                               

From the moment I first heard "Just Do You" by India Arie, I knew these were words I wanted Camryn to hear, internalize, and live!!  This song is all about taking that calculated risk, exploring life, creating your own path, and controlling it, and I have had this song on repeat in her life ever since.  When I thought she was losing her way, I reminded her of a few passages from the Bible, and blasted this song.  When I felt that self doubt was kicking in, I played this song! When I thought she might be affected by the treatment or words of someone else, I played this song.  I have always known that she can be whatever she wants because she is absolutely smart, and witty, and personable!  I just needed her to know and continue to believe that.  

Then I thought, if this mantra is good enough for Camryn, then of course, these words are good enough for me.  So to those who have nothing but negativity to toss in my direction, who ask if I'm crazy, who tell me repeatedly how hot it is as a way to change my thinking, who are just not on my team, don't waste your time because I am just doing me!!!  Every story needs someone to write it, and I am absolutely excited about revising mine!!!!

Yes, I Am Moving...Again!!

Moving is second nature for me and almost like breathing.  My cousin, Leslie, told me a few years ago that she stopped writing my address in her book in pen (yes, she still had an address book back then) because it never stays the same for too long. The reality of that hit home when Camryn graduated this past June from West Florence High School, the 9th school she has attended (and the one she attended the longest at 2.5 years).  I like to think that all of these moves just make us people who adapt super easily to whatever comes. At least that's my story, and I'm sticking to it, so what's one more move?!

I must say, though, this new move is my most adventurous of all, and I am super excited about it, just not about the packing.  I keep trying to figure out how to pack up my life in three 50 lb suitcases and a 15 lb carry-on. The word downsizing doesn't even do justice for what's going on in this place.

Right now, I sit amongst wall to wall boxes and bins and bags in a small space I have carved out for myself on the couch just so I could take a break to eat and write for a few.  Free space right now is a much sought after thing up in here.  Camryn said yesterday that there is so much piled in the hallway that she gets startled when she walks out of her room because she keeps thinking someone is standing there.

There is a section for Habitat for Humanity, a section for Goodwill, a section for storage and a much needed section for trash.  Although, I am not one to save much  (A friend of mine would disagree with this statement since I save almost everything Camryn has ever made me or written or worn that was special), and I have already downsized twice before, this kind of move is really forcing me to make some decisions about the things we have and need.  It's amazing how much can be accumulated in short periods of time, but I am really looking forward to this minimalistic beginning to my new expat life.

Oh well, I must get back to it.  Time's a wasting!

#TAOA

Life has brought many changes my way over the last four years, and with this impending empty nest flashing before my eyes,  I am not so sure I am ready to embrace this latest change at all.  See, my life for the last 16 years has been all about Camryn, and I enjoyed every minute of it.  My days and weeks were filled yet predictable:  weekday volleyball games and weekend tournaments, acting as Camryn's personal chauffeur, spur-of-the-moment mother/daughter road trips and adventures that gave me time to spend with my fave girl and bond before we reached this point we find ourselves in now.

In a few short weeks, she is headed off to college to begin her life, and I am faced with the reality that I am going to be left behind, lonely and bored.  All sorts of thoughts and questions flood my mind: What am I going to do with myself? How will I find purpose again?  Do I really know how to just be me, not Cam's mom, and enjoy life?  Would never ending sadness and depression loom around the corner?

For her, this is an exciting and scary time and equally so for me as well.  Deep inside, I know that change is good, but it is hard to accept sometimes.  I also know that I need to snap out of these dreary thoughts, get myself together, and audaciously chart a new path for my life.  After weeks, no months, of wallowing, I am deciding and choosing to view this change as something to look forward to instead of something to dread.  It is clear that time is passing swiftly.  With each unencumbered moment, I reminisce on all the things I wanted to do before I became a mom, and I feel an overwhelming sense of urgency to put my thoughts into action.

So in 30 days, I will be grabbing life by the proverbial horn and making moves, BIG MOVES because, like the little boy who sang out to the mynah bird,  I've got plans, BIG PLANS, I say!




PS: Shout out to Jaime Miranda for helping me to capture my essence through a hashtag#!
#MsAlgebruhhhPresents