I love visiting family and friends. I sometimes think of going on vacations and skipping visiting…but I really do enjoy visiting family and friends. I also love to have people visit us. In the States this was easy…just drive or fly and you had a free room at our house. Here in Saudi it can be more difficult. They only allow immediate family to visit. Immediate family means parents, grandparents and siblings. Which is kind of sad because there are SO many people we would love to host and have come and visit us here in the desert Kingdom. But we did have visitors!
Mom and Dad Wright came to visit us. My company immediately approved it and we were sent an e-mail from the Ministry approving the visit. Then our friends at Diran Visa, after some paperwork..e-mails..and phone calls, finally got Mom and Dad their visas.
Mom and Dad arrived on 11 Feb. Laurie made sure the room was perfect..making me drag stuff up there and help make the bed. New towels had been bought along with new pillow cases. Stuff for the bathroom..creams, shampoo and body wash…were put in cute baskets and ready. We even had chilled water for them (a tip we got from Val..she always has water in the guestroom).
Timmy and I went to pick them up at the airport. I wanted to get behind the doors and meet them in the luggage area. I figured it would be easier without Laurie (this is a man’s world). Laurie stayed behind at the villa to make sure everything was perfect. Timmy and I get to the airport. Up the escalator. Then down, because I had forgotten my wallet. Then up again. We consulted the board…the flight had landed. It shouldn’t be a problem to get behind the doors..mafi mushkala. Up we go to talk to the guard. I flash my million dollar smile…”Marhaba.” The guard looks at me..I was expecting a response.
“My Mother is here. It’s her first time and I have her abyaa. Can I meet her?” I’m still smiling.
“No.” This isn’t registering with me. I’m using my million dollar smile and that has never failed me.
“My mother is very old.” Mom Wright isn’t that old…but I wanted to meet them.
“No.” Hmmmm…this isn’t working at all like it’s supposed to.
“I work for the RSAF. See here’s my badge.” I give him my badge…still smiling.
“No.” Obviously he doesn’t understand…that’s the problem.
“I’m going to call someone that can explain who I am and why I need to help my Mother.” I call Capt Ziedan, the nicest Saudi officer and the one that got me to come over here. He doesn’t answer. So I start to call a Col that owes me a favor. But before I do….
“ID.”
I give him my RSAF badge. He looks at it.
“Dubai?”
“Yes. They’re coming from Dubai.”
He points to the tray. Timmy and I empty our pockets, walk through the metal detector and we’re in! (I knew my smile would work!)
There’s Mom and Dad at the immigration counter. They smile and wave at us. They finish up. One of the airport guys get their luggage…Mom puts on her abyaa..we go through security..then to the car.
They loved the villa. They loved that Laurie was here waiting for them. Ohhed and ahhed over their room.
For the next 13 days we had a great time. We went to Clock Tower (Dad loved taking pictures there…and so did the guys that he took pics of), to the malls, the camel souk, Fort Musmak, the top of Kingdom Tower where we could see for miles and old Riyadh (where history really does come alive if you listen..Laurie has a great post on this). We had an amazing time with them. We went places that we’ve been wanting to go to but haven’t. We saw things we haven’t seen since we’ve been here. But the best thing was just having visitors.
Timmy loved coming home and seeing his grandparents. Grandpa Wright would help with homework and ask questions to make sure Timmy understood. Grandma was here to ask about Timmy’s day and to shower him with her love.
Mom and Dad always told me how much they enjoyed eating whatever I had cooked. They both wanted to help Laurie with whatever she needed them to do (mostly she just wanted them to relax). In the evenings we sometimes watched “The Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency” (on DVD…really good) or “As Time Goes By” (also on DVD and really good). Other evenings we were out and about.
The visit was over too fast. When I came home from work on Wed Mom and Dad were gone. Our compound transportation had taken them to the airport, along with Laurie and Timmy (Laurie and Timmy came back). The villa seemed empty.
Now we have to work on my Dad and step-Mother.
IF the rules ever change…ALL of you are invited to be our guests and put us to the test (ha)!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Witnessed to
Thursday we went grocery shopping at Hyatt mall. They have a nice grocery store that we like called Danube. We finished shopping and were on our way to the car. Laurie made a detour so it was just Timmy and I leaving the mall with the bag boy behind us pushing the cart and ready to load the groceries into the car.
As Timmy and I come out of the mall there is a Saudi man standing there. Not a big deal after all this is Saudi Arabia and there are a lot of Saudi men. This man had a smile on his face. He stuck his hand out and gave me a very firm handshake (a little unusual in Saudi as a firm handshake can be seen as a sign of aggression). He asked “Are you Christian?” I replied “Yes, I’m Christian” (the Saudi’s want you to believe in some religion and I’m never afraid to tell people when they that I’m Christian). He could see that we had groceries so he asked if he could walk with us to the car. Sure. So we walk to the car.
As we walk he asks me “Have you ever studied the Koran?”
I replied “Yes. I’ve studied the Koran when I took a religion class from my university.”
“Very good” he says and smiles.
“What would you say is the main difference between the Bible and Koran?”
I answered “Well Christians believe that Christ is the son of….”
“No, I’m not asking what you believe. I want to know what you think is the difference between the Bible and Koran.”
“The difference, to me, is that the Bible was written by many prophets and the Koran was written by one.” I was hoping this is the right answer..or at least close to the right answer. By now we’re at the car.
“Yes” he smiled. “That’s correct. The Bible has many authors and they might see things differently. But the Koran was written by one person.”
He then takes my hand again and shakes it. He smiles and tells me “You are my brother. I don’t care if you are Christian or Muslim because you are my brother and I love you.” That touched me. I told him that we are brothers. He wished me a good day and was gone.
It’s unusual for a Saudi to approach you and ask about religion, etc.. I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. We were two friends talking about religion. It was an interesting experience and I’m glad I had it.
Jew, Christian, Muslim..we really all are brothers and sisters and we need to remember that…especially here in the Middle East
As Timmy and I come out of the mall there is a Saudi man standing there. Not a big deal after all this is Saudi Arabia and there are a lot of Saudi men. This man had a smile on his face. He stuck his hand out and gave me a very firm handshake (a little unusual in Saudi as a firm handshake can be seen as a sign of aggression). He asked “Are you Christian?” I replied “Yes, I’m Christian” (the Saudi’s want you to believe in some religion and I’m never afraid to tell people when they that I’m Christian). He could see that we had groceries so he asked if he could walk with us to the car. Sure. So we walk to the car.
As we walk he asks me “Have you ever studied the Koran?”
I replied “Yes. I’ve studied the Koran when I took a religion class from my university.”
“Very good” he says and smiles.
“What would you say is the main difference between the Bible and Koran?”
I answered “Well Christians believe that Christ is the son of….”
“No, I’m not asking what you believe. I want to know what you think is the difference between the Bible and Koran.”
“The difference, to me, is that the Bible was written by many prophets and the Koran was written by one.” I was hoping this is the right answer..or at least close to the right answer. By now we’re at the car.
“Yes” he smiled. “That’s correct. The Bible has many authors and they might see things differently. But the Koran was written by one person.”
He then takes my hand again and shakes it. He smiles and tells me “You are my brother. I don’t care if you are Christian or Muslim because you are my brother and I love you.” That touched me. I told him that we are brothers. He wished me a good day and was gone.
It’s unusual for a Saudi to approach you and ask about religion, etc.. I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. We were two friends talking about religion. It was an interesting experience and I’m glad I had it.
Jew, Christian, Muslim..we really all are brothers and sisters and we need to remember that…especially here in the Middle East
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Our Timmy
I don’t usually write about Timmy. But a friend’s blog reminded me that time with our Timmy is short (he’s already 9 years old). I, like our friend, hope that what I’m / we’re doing is right for Timmy.
I’m so proud of Timmy..yes proud. It was 18 months ago when I met him and Laurie at the Riyadh airport. I still remember scanning the crowd and not seeing Laurie’s blond hair or Timmy’s red hair. For a moment I panicked thinking they had either missed the plane or were being delayed somewhere by security in the airport. Then I looked and saw a lone woman with a scarf on wearing a coat filling out paperwork. Near her was a red headed boy who did not look happy. I was proud of Timmy for leaving everything he knew behind and flying across the world to be with his Dad to a live in a foreign country.
I remember the first year of school…much bigger and academically challenging school than he came from. He kept a lot of stuff to himself but one evening he let it all out in sobs. What was really upsetting him were some bullies on the playground. After the evening of sobs he walked into the principal’s office the next morning, by himself, and told her about it. She took out a year book and had Timmy point out the boys. I was proud that he had the courage to go to the principal’s office by himself and point out the boys…the situation was resolved.
I’m proud that Timmy wants to do after school activities. He comes home excited looking over the list and picking two. Last time it was cooking and board games. Timmy would come home with recipes that we could make (French toast being his favorite he learned). This time around he wants to perform in the Wizard of Oz and baseball. I would have never done these activities and I’m proud that Timmy wants to do them and does them.
We’re not a sports oriented family but while we lived in Texas we signed Timmy up for T-ball. We all loved it. It was awesome to see Timmy go from hitting the ball off the T to seeing a coach pitch it to him and him hitting it. Here in Saudi he still enjoys playing baseball and basketball. I’m proud that he signs up each season for basketball….dribbles his heart out…makes some good shots…does his best. As for baseball he does well in that too. Last year was a little tough with the temps at 100….I made sure he drank plenty of water (but it was still tough). Timmy even got hit with the baseball and still kept playing and going. I’m proud of that.
I’m proud that he has developed a love of books. I love seeing him read. The school here promotes reading and he has to do a reading prompt each school day. But he reads even on the weekends. Timmy likes his adventure books or books about inventing something.
I’m proud that Timmy wants to listen to the scriptures, say family prayer and have Family home Evening. He wants to learn about religion. I don’t think I really cared one way or the other when I was 9…but Timmy does care.
I’m most proud that Timmy has learned and shows empathy, sympathy and inclusion. I know he doesn’t get this from me (I pretend not to care…because then I would get teary eyed). Laurie cares. But Timmy has a sense of empathy, sympathy and inclusion that is awesome. In Texas there was boy in his class who others excluded but Timmy always included him. When we left Texas Timmy’s teacher wrote him a note that said she hoped her son would grow up to be like Timmy (that brought tears to my eyes…still does). Here Timmy showed a friend empathy and sympathy when that friend had some of his friends die. Timmy told him that he knew what it was like to be without someone you really loved and liked. The counselor told Laurie that she got teary eyed when Timmy showed this awesome empathy and sympathy.
Timmy has his faults (messy room….leaves his stuff all over…) but we’ll work on that and one day, inshallah, he’ll learn the importance of a clean room, desk, house, etc… Timmy is a picky eater…again though it’s something we’re working on (and lately he hasn’t cried when I put veggies on his plates…he accepts them and nibbles at them).
I see a bright future for Timmy. But I hope that as he gets older that Laurie and I aren’t left behind or forgotten. I hope that Timmy will always want us around and to be included in his life. I hope that the memories Timmy has of his parents will always be good ones.
Yes, I’m proud of our Timmy.
I’m so proud of Timmy..yes proud. It was 18 months ago when I met him and Laurie at the Riyadh airport. I still remember scanning the crowd and not seeing Laurie’s blond hair or Timmy’s red hair. For a moment I panicked thinking they had either missed the plane or were being delayed somewhere by security in the airport. Then I looked and saw a lone woman with a scarf on wearing a coat filling out paperwork. Near her was a red headed boy who did not look happy. I was proud of Timmy for leaving everything he knew behind and flying across the world to be with his Dad to a live in a foreign country.
I remember the first year of school…much bigger and academically challenging school than he came from. He kept a lot of stuff to himself but one evening he let it all out in sobs. What was really upsetting him were some bullies on the playground. After the evening of sobs he walked into the principal’s office the next morning, by himself, and told her about it. She took out a year book and had Timmy point out the boys. I was proud that he had the courage to go to the principal’s office by himself and point out the boys…the situation was resolved.
I’m proud that Timmy wants to do after school activities. He comes home excited looking over the list and picking two. Last time it was cooking and board games. Timmy would come home with recipes that we could make (French toast being his favorite he learned). This time around he wants to perform in the Wizard of Oz and baseball. I would have never done these activities and I’m proud that Timmy wants to do them and does them.
We’re not a sports oriented family but while we lived in Texas we signed Timmy up for T-ball. We all loved it. It was awesome to see Timmy go from hitting the ball off the T to seeing a coach pitch it to him and him hitting it. Here in Saudi he still enjoys playing baseball and basketball. I’m proud that he signs up each season for basketball….dribbles his heart out…makes some good shots…does his best. As for baseball he does well in that too. Last year was a little tough with the temps at 100….I made sure he drank plenty of water (but it was still tough). Timmy even got hit with the baseball and still kept playing and going. I’m proud of that.
I’m proud that he has developed a love of books. I love seeing him read. The school here promotes reading and he has to do a reading prompt each school day. But he reads even on the weekends. Timmy likes his adventure books or books about inventing something.
I’m proud that Timmy wants to listen to the scriptures, say family prayer and have Family home Evening. He wants to learn about religion. I don’t think I really cared one way or the other when I was 9…but Timmy does care.
I’m most proud that Timmy has learned and shows empathy, sympathy and inclusion. I know he doesn’t get this from me (I pretend not to care…because then I would get teary eyed). Laurie cares. But Timmy has a sense of empathy, sympathy and inclusion that is awesome. In Texas there was boy in his class who others excluded but Timmy always included him. When we left Texas Timmy’s teacher wrote him a note that said she hoped her son would grow up to be like Timmy (that brought tears to my eyes…still does). Here Timmy showed a friend empathy and sympathy when that friend had some of his friends die. Timmy told him that he knew what it was like to be without someone you really loved and liked. The counselor told Laurie that she got teary eyed when Timmy showed this awesome empathy and sympathy.
Timmy has his faults (messy room….leaves his stuff all over…) but we’ll work on that and one day, inshallah, he’ll learn the importance of a clean room, desk, house, etc… Timmy is a picky eater…again though it’s something we’re working on (and lately he hasn’t cried when I put veggies on his plates…he accepts them and nibbles at them).
I see a bright future for Timmy. But I hope that as he gets older that Laurie and I aren’t left behind or forgotten. I hope that Timmy will always want us around and to be included in his life. I hope that the memories Timmy has of his parents will always be good ones.
Yes, I’m proud of our Timmy.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Something is going on
Things have been very interesting things going on here at Jadawel Compound since the break-in a few weeks ago. Let’s start at the beginning.
A few weeks ago we all heard about a break-in where a safe had been stolen along with other stuff. The occupants were on vacation. When they came back and discovered the robbery they reported it. The driver, maid and d / m’s Mother were all taken to jail. The investigation is still going on.
The driver has been released. The women have not been released (which is why we had to hire a new maid). Rumors are that the Mom is the mafia princess (I’m not sure what that entails but at least she has a title).
Rumor is that a note with 50,000SAR (about $13,000) was thrown over the wall. The note was an apology for stealing their stuff. Interesting…but there’s more.
There have been at least 4 more break-ins. At one of the break-ins a note was left thanking the residents for the food…but making fun of them for not having anything worth stealing.
There were two attempted break-ins but a resident was in each of the villas and the would be thieves were scared off. But there’s more.
Rumor is that the security guys are shaking down the maids for money. They are telling the maids that they will frame them if they don’t get money. I’ve noticed that the maids aren’t walking around like they used to…they’ve gone into hiding.
Another rumor is that at least one security guy is a pimp for some of the maids..and of course getting his fair share of the money they’re making. Some of the maids are very young and pretty so I could see this happening.
Another interesting tidbit of corruption are the profitable parties. There are, rumor, 4 villas that charge everybody 75SAR ($20) to attend these parties. These parties aren’t limited to Jadawel residents…lots of young Arab (Saudi, Lebanese, Syrian and Jordanian) guys are coming onto the compound and partying. Again, the security guys are getting a cut because they 1) allow the Arabs on and 2) they move the furniture out of the LR and DR for the night and then move it back the next day.
Things are interesting here at Jadawel. I think I’ll have to take a walk late on Wed night to see what villas are partying. At least it’s never dull in Saudi Arabia.
A few weeks ago we all heard about a break-in where a safe had been stolen along with other stuff. The occupants were on vacation. When they came back and discovered the robbery they reported it. The driver, maid and d / m’s Mother were all taken to jail. The investigation is still going on.
The driver has been released. The women have not been released (which is why we had to hire a new maid). Rumors are that the Mom is the mafia princess (I’m not sure what that entails but at least she has a title).
Rumor is that a note with 50,000SAR (about $13,000) was thrown over the wall. The note was an apology for stealing their stuff. Interesting…but there’s more.
There have been at least 4 more break-ins. At one of the break-ins a note was left thanking the residents for the food…but making fun of them for not having anything worth stealing.
There were two attempted break-ins but a resident was in each of the villas and the would be thieves were scared off. But there’s more.
Rumor is that the security guys are shaking down the maids for money. They are telling the maids that they will frame them if they don’t get money. I’ve noticed that the maids aren’t walking around like they used to…they’ve gone into hiding.
Another rumor is that at least one security guy is a pimp for some of the maids..and of course getting his fair share of the money they’re making. Some of the maids are very young and pretty so I could see this happening.
Another interesting tidbit of corruption are the profitable parties. There are, rumor, 4 villas that charge everybody 75SAR ($20) to attend these parties. These parties aren’t limited to Jadawel residents…lots of young Arab (Saudi, Lebanese, Syrian and Jordanian) guys are coming onto the compound and partying. Again, the security guys are getting a cut because they 1) allow the Arabs on and 2) they move the furniture out of the LR and DR for the night and then move it back the next day.
Things are interesting here at Jadawel. I think I’ll have to take a walk late on Wed night to see what villas are partying. At least it’s never dull in Saudi Arabia.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Getting Groomed
For 22 years I got a haircut from either the barber or the beauty shop (I liked the beauty shop best...friendlier) on base. The military has all these rules on how the hair should look, be cut, etc.. and I accepted that. Before the military Mom and Dad decided how my hair was cut. Then I retired from the military and realized I could do whatever I wanted with my hair. I love it when the guys decide to grow the pony tail...love is a pretty strong word...amused is more like it. Personally I like the clean cut look.
Before I left San Angelo a new hair salon opened (I can’t remember the name of it). I went in and asked if I could get my hair cut with scissors...no problem. Wow my haircut looked better. I went again a few days before flying to the KSA. At that appointment I also asked if she could wax my ears (I get hair on my ears now!!!!). The stylist said she had never done that but was willing to try. She waxed my ears and then yanked out the hairs...my ears were so clean and shiny (the stylist liked the way my ears looked and said she was going to recommend this to all of her male customers).
I get to the KSA and notice that most Saudi men are very well groomed...much more than just a haircut. So I felt confident that I'd be ok when it came to a bager. Our compound has a barber and he’s really good. The problems...only open twice a week and you have to book a month to 6-weeks in advance. Sometimes I just want to drop in.
One day I was very frustrated and needed my hair cut so I stopped at a nice place. The sign said it was a Turkish Barber. I've had my hair cut in Turkey and like it. I go inside. One young guy speaks some English. He’s a stylist. I get my haircut, shampooed, he uses string to “pluck” the hair from my ears AND he trims my eyebrows. Wow. I had never been so pampered. I went back two more times. The third time he was gone and the other guy did a good job...but when he “cleaned” my ears he burned the hairs off...yes burned (my ears looked good but it was little nerve racking).
I found another Turkish Barber near..relatively speaking..our compound. Very limited English but we manage to communicate. The second time I went they asked if I wanted a manicure and pedicure. Sure why not. Then he looked at my ears and nose. The next thing I know he’s stuffing hot wax up my nose...lets it cool and then yanks it out along with all the nose hair. Wow did it hurt. BUT the inside of my nose looked better. He waxes my ears...they look very nice. The manicure and pedicure are nice. Suddenly I realize this is why women go to the beauty salon...to get groomed and pampered. I liked it.
This last time I went I not only got my ears, nose, haircut, manicure and pedicure but they also did a facial and shaved me. Wow. This is the life. Go and get fussed over for two hours and walk out looking and feeling better. This morning the guy at the gas station mentioned that I looked better (you know it’s a good day when the gas attendant mentions you look good).
Now I don’t just get my haircut...I get groomed and I like it. It’s a whole new world.
Before I left San Angelo a new hair salon opened (I can’t remember the name of it). I went in and asked if I could get my hair cut with scissors...no problem. Wow my haircut looked better. I went again a few days before flying to the KSA. At that appointment I also asked if she could wax my ears (I get hair on my ears now!!!!). The stylist said she had never done that but was willing to try. She waxed my ears and then yanked out the hairs...my ears were so clean and shiny (the stylist liked the way my ears looked and said she was going to recommend this to all of her male customers).
I get to the KSA and notice that most Saudi men are very well groomed...much more than just a haircut. So I felt confident that I'd be ok when it came to a bager. Our compound has a barber and he’s really good. The problems...only open twice a week and you have to book a month to 6-weeks in advance. Sometimes I just want to drop in.
One day I was very frustrated and needed my hair cut so I stopped at a nice place. The sign said it was a Turkish Barber. I've had my hair cut in Turkey and like it. I go inside. One young guy speaks some English. He’s a stylist. I get my haircut, shampooed, he uses string to “pluck” the hair from my ears AND he trims my eyebrows. Wow. I had never been so pampered. I went back two more times. The third time he was gone and the other guy did a good job...but when he “cleaned” my ears he burned the hairs off...yes burned (my ears looked good but it was little nerve racking).
I found another Turkish Barber near..relatively speaking..our compound. Very limited English but we manage to communicate. The second time I went they asked if I wanted a manicure and pedicure. Sure why not. Then he looked at my ears and nose. The next thing I know he’s stuffing hot wax up my nose...lets it cool and then yanks it out along with all the nose hair. Wow did it hurt. BUT the inside of my nose looked better. He waxes my ears...they look very nice. The manicure and pedicure are nice. Suddenly I realize this is why women go to the beauty salon...to get groomed and pampered. I liked it.
This last time I went I not only got my ears, nose, haircut, manicure and pedicure but they also did a facial and shaved me. Wow. This is the life. Go and get fussed over for two hours and walk out looking and feeling better. This morning the guy at the gas station mentioned that I looked better (you know it’s a good day when the gas attendant mentions you look good).
Now I don’t just get my haircut...I get groomed and I like it. It’s a whole new world.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
"Hajjis, sit down!"
We went to Germany again (can you believe it?) to spend some of the Christmas season with the Troils (minus Eric who is in Afghanistan). We had an awesome time (more about that later). We left Riyadh at 0200...yawn...early morning. When we checked in we were told that the flight would be stopping in Jeddah...no problem. Our flight from Riyadh to Jeddah was ok. The plane was pretty full but the flight attendants were pleasant. Everything was going well.
We land in Jeddah. All the Saudi’s get off. There are just a handful of us expats left on the plane. We’re thinking this is going to be a great flight to Germany. After about 45 minutes we’re asked to sit down in our seats. One of the expats asked if the flight was going to be full and was told “Yes.” And “Yes” it was full.
On the plane they came...the Turkish horde. The boisterous, big and hygiene deficient Turkish Hajjis. Now I’m not trying to disparage the Hajjis...but wow it was site I’ve never witnessed before up close (I’ve seen stuff like this on TV).
All Muslims, if financially and physically able, are supposed to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. There are whole tourist agencies built around the Hajj. It’s incredible. But when you consider that over 3 million attend Hajj this year and the number keeps going up..well that’s a lot of money. I know that most of the Hajjis are just humble people doing something to help build their spirituality and understanding of their faith.
As the Turkish Hajjis entered the airplane it was as if the rest of us didn’t exist. Here we are sitting quietly in our seats and then all this commotion. One man kept telling the flight attendant that he was supposed to get a window seat and was expecting the expat sitting there to get up! The flight attendant told him that his travel agent may have told the traveller he was getting a window seat but he wasn’t. She pointed to his three seats and in a firm voice told him to sit down (she had to repeat this three times before he and his group sat down). The Hajjis would look at their tickets, the number and then just sit wherever. I’m not sure if they couldn’t read the number or if they just saw an empty seat and decided what the heck I’ll sit here. The flight attendants were going crazy trying to get everyone in their assigned seats. Even when the seats were found the Hajjis would wander around the plane chatting with each other. Finally, in exasperation, one male flight attendant, in a loud voice, said “Hajjis, sit down!” Some did and some didn’t. Over the loud speaker came the announcement “Open seating...please find a seat and sit down.” That created even more chaos.
After an hour the Hajjis were finally in their seats and the plane was ready to take off. We’re in the air cruising and the coughing begins. Not just one or two people but half the plane! Cough, cough, cough. I felt like germs were crawling on me and I was contaminated. I wanted to scream, run down the aisle, open the emergency hatch and parachute out and then burn the clothes I was wearing. I could tell Laurie was not enjoying the flight at all. Lucky for Timmy he was sleeping.
The loud talking, the wandering, hygiene deficient and the coughing....sigh...it didn’t make for a good flight for me. BUT I also have to remember that for the Hajjis this was the high point of their life. They were excited. They had done Hajj. They couldn’t wait to tell their experience to family and friends waiting for them in Germany. So I kept repeating “Serenity now,,,serenty now....”
As we landed I told Laurie that we needed to just sit on the plane until the Hajjis had gotten off and she agreed. I did get up to get a suitcase for the female Hajji sitting in front of us. She smiled and thanked me.
The Hajjis had mostly debarked so we got up and got off the plane. We got our luggage and went to passport control. There were the Hajjis...but lined up and being quiet. As we left the area the doors opened and there were hundreds of family and friends waiting for the Hajjis. I knew they couldn’t wait to hear the stories and that the Hajjis couldn’t wait to tell their stories.
It was by far one of my worst flights...but...what’s a little chaos. We got to Germany ok...we survived the Hajjis...we had an awesome time in Germany. The flight back to Riyadh...practically empty and quiet and best of all no coughing.
We land in Jeddah. All the Saudi’s get off. There are just a handful of us expats left on the plane. We’re thinking this is going to be a great flight to Germany. After about 45 minutes we’re asked to sit down in our seats. One of the expats asked if the flight was going to be full and was told “Yes.” And “Yes” it was full.
On the plane they came...the Turkish horde. The boisterous, big and hygiene deficient Turkish Hajjis. Now I’m not trying to disparage the Hajjis...but wow it was site I’ve never witnessed before up close (I’ve seen stuff like this on TV).
All Muslims, if financially and physically able, are supposed to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. There are whole tourist agencies built around the Hajj. It’s incredible. But when you consider that over 3 million attend Hajj this year and the number keeps going up..well that’s a lot of money. I know that most of the Hajjis are just humble people doing something to help build their spirituality and understanding of their faith.
As the Turkish Hajjis entered the airplane it was as if the rest of us didn’t exist. Here we are sitting quietly in our seats and then all this commotion. One man kept telling the flight attendant that he was supposed to get a window seat and was expecting the expat sitting there to get up! The flight attendant told him that his travel agent may have told the traveller he was getting a window seat but he wasn’t. She pointed to his three seats and in a firm voice told him to sit down (she had to repeat this three times before he and his group sat down). The Hajjis would look at their tickets, the number and then just sit wherever. I’m not sure if they couldn’t read the number or if they just saw an empty seat and decided what the heck I’ll sit here. The flight attendants were going crazy trying to get everyone in their assigned seats. Even when the seats were found the Hajjis would wander around the plane chatting with each other. Finally, in exasperation, one male flight attendant, in a loud voice, said “Hajjis, sit down!” Some did and some didn’t. Over the loud speaker came the announcement “Open seating...please find a seat and sit down.” That created even more chaos.
After an hour the Hajjis were finally in their seats and the plane was ready to take off. We’re in the air cruising and the coughing begins. Not just one or two people but half the plane! Cough, cough, cough. I felt like germs were crawling on me and I was contaminated. I wanted to scream, run down the aisle, open the emergency hatch and parachute out and then burn the clothes I was wearing. I could tell Laurie was not enjoying the flight at all. Lucky for Timmy he was sleeping.
The loud talking, the wandering, hygiene deficient and the coughing....sigh...it didn’t make for a good flight for me. BUT I also have to remember that for the Hajjis this was the high point of their life. They were excited. They had done Hajj. They couldn’t wait to tell their experience to family and friends waiting for them in Germany. So I kept repeating “Serenity now,,,serenty now....”
As we landed I told Laurie that we needed to just sit on the plane until the Hajjis had gotten off and she agreed. I did get up to get a suitcase for the female Hajji sitting in front of us. She smiled and thanked me.
The Hajjis had mostly debarked so we got up and got off the plane. We got our luggage and went to passport control. There were the Hajjis...but lined up and being quiet. As we left the area the doors opened and there were hundreds of family and friends waiting for the Hajjis. I knew they couldn’t wait to hear the stories and that the Hajjis couldn’t wait to tell their stories.
It was by far one of my worst flights...but...what’s a little chaos. We got to Germany ok...we survived the Hajjis...we had an awesome time in Germany. The flight back to Riyadh...practically empty and quiet and best of all no coughing.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Holiday Concert
Yesterday was the Holiday Concert at the American International School-Riyadh (AIS-R). I asked my boss if I could take time off to attend and he smiled and said yes. I planned for a 50 minute drive (even though the school isn’t that far from my office…the highways are packed in the afternoon). I used all 50 minutes.
I figured parking at AIS-R wouldn't bad since I have a pass that allows me to park closer to the school but the line was packed so I ended parking in the main parking lot and walking the “blue mile.” By the time I got to the concert hall…yes hall and it is very very nice…the concert had started. I was looking for Laurie and her assistant pointed to where Laurie was sitting and saving me a seat.
The 1st and 2nd graders were singing funny songs about playing outside in the snow and how they were bored with no school. They were dressed very festive in red shirts and had green and red scarves. It was very nice.
Then the “older” elementary children came out. They were dressed in dark pants and white shirts. They looked so clean and fresh…even angelic. I scanned the stage looking for Timmy. There he was in the back. I was barely able to see him. I mentioned something about sizing the children to Laurie. Laurie pooh poohed that. Then I remaindered her that in military careers hang in the balance on whether or not a person can size a squadron. All the parents started waving to their children…including me. Everybody was excited to see their child / children on stage.
As I sat watching and listening it was amazing. Here are all these children with different social, ethnic and religious backgrounds getting along. I loved seeing the all the dark hair, a smatterings of blonde and then the only red-head (our Timmy). There was brown skin, black, white, Asian, Arab, European, African and American, Christian and Muslim all standing and singing together. It was like looking a little UN. I hope that as these children get older and go through life they’ll remember they are friends.
The songs for the older group were more serious focusing on joy and peace. They sang a song holding candles (the ones with the light bulbs) all the lights were turned out and all you saw were the candles shining and heard their angelic voices singing. I got teary eyed. Even though Christ was not mentioned the song was about all the virtues that both Christians and Muslims are supposed to live up to (love one another and peace).
I was fascinated with a Saudi father. He was sitting two rows in front of Laurie and me and wearing traditional Saudi dress. He wasn’t reclining in the seat but instead was sitting forward with a huge smile on his face and clapping after each number. I don’t know which child was his but he was obviously proud of them and wasn’t afraid to show it.
When the concert was over I realized that it really had touched me. The message was peace, joy and love to all. Isn’t that what all of us want and hope for?
MERRY CHRISTMAS to ALL!!! May all of us have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!!
I figured parking at AIS-R wouldn't bad since I have a pass that allows me to park closer to the school but the line was packed so I ended parking in the main parking lot and walking the “blue mile.” By the time I got to the concert hall…yes hall and it is very very nice…the concert had started. I was looking for Laurie and her assistant pointed to where Laurie was sitting and saving me a seat.
The 1st and 2nd graders were singing funny songs about playing outside in the snow and how they were bored with no school. They were dressed very festive in red shirts and had green and red scarves. It was very nice.
Then the “older” elementary children came out. They were dressed in dark pants and white shirts. They looked so clean and fresh…even angelic. I scanned the stage looking for Timmy. There he was in the back. I was barely able to see him. I mentioned something about sizing the children to Laurie. Laurie pooh poohed that. Then I remaindered her that in military careers hang in the balance on whether or not a person can size a squadron. All the parents started waving to their children…including me. Everybody was excited to see their child / children on stage.
As I sat watching and listening it was amazing. Here are all these children with different social, ethnic and religious backgrounds getting along. I loved seeing the all the dark hair, a smatterings of blonde and then the only red-head (our Timmy). There was brown skin, black, white, Asian, Arab, European, African and American, Christian and Muslim all standing and singing together. It was like looking a little UN. I hope that as these children get older and go through life they’ll remember they are friends.
The songs for the older group were more serious focusing on joy and peace. They sang a song holding candles (the ones with the light bulbs) all the lights were turned out and all you saw were the candles shining and heard their angelic voices singing. I got teary eyed. Even though Christ was not mentioned the song was about all the virtues that both Christians and Muslims are supposed to live up to (love one another and peace).
I was fascinated with a Saudi father. He was sitting two rows in front of Laurie and me and wearing traditional Saudi dress. He wasn’t reclining in the seat but instead was sitting forward with a huge smile on his face and clapping after each number. I don’t know which child was his but he was obviously proud of them and wasn’t afraid to show it.
When the concert was over I realized that it really had touched me. The message was peace, joy and love to all. Isn’t that what all of us want and hope for?
MERRY CHRISTMAS to ALL!!! May all of us have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!!
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