Smells can be difficult to describe, yet nothing else much captures the uniqueness of a place like a smell... reinforcing memories. Touring Jeddah started with the smell of homemade banana muffins, a breakfast blessing from our fearless leader, Miss Cheryl. Yummers. Then we swung by Starbucks to get fortified with some morning jo, much needed on an yearly morning jaunt. Our happy group woke up together, inhaling the wafting aroma's. We drove through empty roads. Avoiding the heat, people tend to come out only when necessary, or at night. The city is alive into the wee hours. Driving around the harbor, we finally disembarked at a quant little inlet filled with worn out fishing boats. I took a picture of a blue herring, but then was chased down and yelled at by the guards. 'La La!' (no no) But as you can see, it turned out okay. To explain the fish market from a new-bee perspective is difficult. It is a scene and smell I have experienced many times before, tile floors with a maze of drains to wash unwanted matter, smells that are better left behind and the cacophony of voices trying to outshout each other over the crowds of buyers bartering for the best price. There were the ordinary catch of the day~ tuna, swordfish, prawn, lobster, various sizes of sharks; then beautiful aqua blue fish and coral red fish with black pepper spots I've never seen before. Unfortunately I was unable to take photo's. We sloshed through the muck on the floor to watch the buyers take their purchase down to the fish gutters, who prepared them, bagged them and then put them in ice chests. Buyers were able to keep an eye on their catch of the day. Most of the crew headed back to the bus, but Bob and I stayed to witness a 'filet of shark'. Looking at it's stomach, it was one hungry creature. Makes me think twice about the scuba diving lessons. After being 'baptized by a 'sloshing bucket', we'd had enough and headed off to the old part of Jeddah. Very few shops were open as it was only 10 in the morning, but we were able to get in a bit of wheeling and dealing. I thought the markets would be more like the Turkish bazaars in Istanbul, but alas, no. I snuck in a few shots through the bus windows. Please note they were DIRTY windows. Thursday, October 20, 2011
Sites Sounds & Smells
Smells can be difficult to describe, yet nothing else much captures the uniqueness of a place like a smell... reinforcing memories. Touring Jeddah started with the smell of homemade banana muffins, a breakfast blessing from our fearless leader, Miss Cheryl. Yummers. Then we swung by Starbucks to get fortified with some morning jo, much needed on an yearly morning jaunt. Our happy group woke up together, inhaling the wafting aroma's. We drove through empty roads. Avoiding the heat, people tend to come out only when necessary, or at night. The city is alive into the wee hours. Driving around the harbor, we finally disembarked at a quant little inlet filled with worn out fishing boats. I took a picture of a blue herring, but then was chased down and yelled at by the guards. 'La La!' (no no) But as you can see, it turned out okay. To explain the fish market from a new-bee perspective is difficult. It is a scene and smell I have experienced many times before, tile floors with a maze of drains to wash unwanted matter, smells that are better left behind and the cacophony of voices trying to outshout each other over the crowds of buyers bartering for the best price. There were the ordinary catch of the day~ tuna, swordfish, prawn, lobster, various sizes of sharks; then beautiful aqua blue fish and coral red fish with black pepper spots I've never seen before. Unfortunately I was unable to take photo's. We sloshed through the muck on the floor to watch the buyers take their purchase down to the fish gutters, who prepared them, bagged them and then put them in ice chests. Buyers were able to keep an eye on their catch of the day. Most of the crew headed back to the bus, but Bob and I stayed to witness a 'filet of shark'. Looking at it's stomach, it was one hungry creature. Makes me think twice about the scuba diving lessons. After being 'baptized by a 'sloshing bucket', we'd had enough and headed off to the old part of Jeddah. Very few shops were open as it was only 10 in the morning, but we were able to get in a bit of wheeling and dealing. I thought the markets would be more like the Turkish bazaars in Istanbul, but alas, no. I snuck in a few shots through the bus windows. Please note they were DIRTY windows. 
Saturday, October 15, 2011
The Red Sea
Tonight we joined the masses for an evening stroll along the shores of the Red Sea. The sun had disappeared by the time we arrived. The sound of jingling bells met us as we alighted from our cab. Small donkeys and horses decked out in ornate saddles, were being used like amusement rides for children. As it is the end of our "week-middle", families were out in droves as were others taking in the sea air. It was interesting to see children flying kites, riding horses and playing chase, all in the dark. Groups of men lounged on rugs they had thrown down to keep from getting dirty. Some brought tables and chairs for their picnic, others rugs and cushions. Their version of a boardwalk was a bricked path along the shore. Ice~cream vans were parked along the curb while venders walked up and down selling glow in the dark 'flying saucers'. As a foreigner one is constantly scrutinized. For new comers it is unnerving. For me, it's more the course of human nature. We are a mere curiosity. Approaching the beach, we happened on a few of the faithful on prayer rugs kneeling toward Mecca. Just as in any religion, there are the few faithful and the few who do things for the motions, the traditions. There is a rhythm to belief that is easy to move to without thought and effort. Do I move in relationship to my God in the same way? Is it an unconscious rhythm or am I truly, consciously, pouring myself into knowing Him. Do I take that precious gift of intimacy with the Creator for granted? Is it a mindless kneeling in a 'direction', or a true offering, sweet in it's painful surrender to Him? I daren't look too closely.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Still waiting
Day 4 of teaching, and I'm still subbing in other classes. They are still deciding what to do with me. (Join the rest of the world...myself included! ha ha) The beauty of this is that I am getting to see the school from all angles. The school is large and split into 3 different buildings. I work in the 1st-4th building (4th boys are in a separate building. This afternoon school was released early as maintenance was required on the speakers.
Today I tried out the swimming pool. Pool is HUGE. I shared it with two little Dutch boys who ended up 'borrowing' my hand training webbed gloves. They had never seen them. I have a feeling I will be swimming from 'here to the moon' in that pool over the next few months.
Have viewed the setting of the sun across the Red Sea. Stunning. The name fits. The sun shimmers in hues of reds, oranges and peaches as it slips into tomorrow, chased by the night sky.
Today I tried out the swimming pool. Pool is HUGE. I shared it with two little Dutch boys who ended up 'borrowing' my hand training webbed gloves. They had never seen them. I have a feeling I will be swimming from 'here to the moon' in that pool over the next few months.
Have viewed the setting of the sun across the Red Sea. Stunning. The name fits. The sun shimmers in hues of reds, oranges and peaches as it slips into tomorrow, chased by the night sky.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Danoob
What is a Danoob you ask? Well it's like a Fred Meyers or Meiers on steroids. This HUGE store carries everything from fine China to limp mint leaves. With list in hand, it was suppose to be an in and out thing. Nope. Nada. Nix. We were overwhelmed, plodding down isles, taking in all the different and unique products. There was a whole isle dedicated to cream cheese spread. Apparently this very popular item is in demand. Nutella comes in 5 gallon containers. Who'd a thunk it? I looked and looked for nutmeg and cloves. None to be found. We will go to the souk, or Bazaar, this afternoon. Maybe it will be found there. Apparently the souk is much cheeper. I hope so. The Danoob is something I will reserve for 'specialty products'.
We were so dazed that we didn't realize the announcement that was made was for prayer, so we were locked in the store until prayer was over. They close the stores here... yep... 5 times a day durning pray. We had called a cab and due to the 30min wait our fare was more then expected. It was a lesson that needed to be learned.
This morning Deidra and I joined some like minded folks for Luncheon. It was delicious, sharing and eating together. It will be great to be part of this lunch group. We encountered many people who work here in other capacities. Today they had a farewell for friends who are leaving. It is a very diverse and accepting group. The food filled not only my belly, but warmed the soul.
Little things that are funny to me...
~my glasses steam up when I go from inside to outside due to the heat.
~how much it reminds me of living in China
~how hard it is to find hangers
~boxes stacked high of non-alcoholic beer in the stores.
~the light bulbs haning from strings with no fixtures
~Taxi drivers try to rip you off the world over
~The 'radio banned' music in the US that the kindergarten played here for their national day party the first day. (unedited version)
~how the stores close during prayer time and if you're in them, your stuck until the doors open (it's okay to continue to shop. Maybe this is a ploy to get you to buy more.
I'm not sure how often I will be able to write, once they figure out what they want to do with me. Waiting is what one does a lot of here. The desert, surprisingly, is a place to grow.
We were so dazed that we didn't realize the announcement that was made was for prayer, so we were locked in the store until prayer was over. They close the stores here... yep... 5 times a day durning pray. We had called a cab and due to the 30min wait our fare was more then expected. It was a lesson that needed to be learned.
This morning Deidra and I joined some like minded folks for Luncheon. It was delicious, sharing and eating together. It will be great to be part of this lunch group. We encountered many people who work here in other capacities. Today they had a farewell for friends who are leaving. It is a very diverse and accepting group. The food filled not only my belly, but warmed the soul.
Little things that are funny to me...
~my glasses steam up when I go from inside to outside due to the heat.
~how much it reminds me of living in China
~how hard it is to find hangers
~boxes stacked high of non-alcoholic beer in the stores.
~the light bulbs haning from strings with no fixtures
~Taxi drivers try to rip you off the world over
~The 'radio banned' music in the US that the kindergarten played here for their national day party the first day. (unedited version)
~how the stores close during prayer time and if you're in them, your stuck until the doors open (it's okay to continue to shop. Maybe this is a ploy to get you to buy more.
I'm not sure how often I will be able to write, once they figure out what they want to do with me. Waiting is what one does a lot of here. The desert, surprisingly, is a place to grow.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Trial by fire
Arriving at the flat, we dumped our things and hurried to the compound store. We were greeted by friendly faces, who advised us, as our fridge was empty, to grab some grub, so we could eat tomorrow. We took stock of what we had and cash in hand, were taken to a store just one up from a 7-11. We grabbed water, a bit of well picked over fruit, bread, hobnobs (of course), juice, and the high priority... TP! If you've been to China, you understand quality issues here. It's not quite starched tissue paper, but close. We were told there are better stores.
I must back up. As we alighted from the Van, we were greeted by skin and bones stray cats and kittens, weaving their way through trash that littered the area out side our apartment complex. Even in the darkness of the night, one can see strewn across the tiny strip of dried grass in front of the building.
We have not stopped since our arrival. Up at 5 am so we could catch the bus at 6:15. We were handed our Abaya, as we got on the van. Fortunately it snaps up the front. We only have to wear it outside the compound. Some of the ladies did not even wear one. Jeddah's modernized feeling, is due to their generous flexibility with all the expatriates who dwell here.
Still uncertain to my position, I subbed for a sick teacher. 3rd grade boys, at least 24 of them, and all of them excited and energetic. By the end of the day, my feet were swollen and my brain full of names that I've already forgotten. People were friendly and sweet.
After a quick brake at home, we walked with all the teachers to our superintendent's to eat together. I don't recall much as I was focused intently on trying to keep my eyelids open. I did 'win' a mug, for having been in the most countries. I'm sure I made a GREAT impression... quite, monosyllabic and dazed. Won't they be surprised when jet-lag wears off. (Smile)
September 29th:
This morning we were up and off to the 'VAMPIRES' at 9:30. The hospital was interesting. White walls highlighted the 'shadow people' accompanied by the 'Man who can see them', to get things done. Children are free to roam and run, expressing themselves loudly. Especially the boys. They are cute though. It is noticeable who is the priority, by the length of time we had to wait for things to get done. After blood and pictures (ex-rays), we walked across the dusty road, dodging cars, to another doctors office. We sat in his office together. He asked us if we could hear him, see him... and then he signed the papers and notarized them. It was very typical of my other experiences in Asian culture. At least in the states my doctor actually looked in my ears, eyes, tested my oxygen levels and blood pressure. ha ha!
I must back up. As we alighted from the Van, we were greeted by skin and bones stray cats and kittens, weaving their way through trash that littered the area out side our apartment complex. Even in the darkness of the night, one can see strewn across the tiny strip of dried grass in front of the building.
We have not stopped since our arrival. Up at 5 am so we could catch the bus at 6:15. We were handed our Abaya, as we got on the van. Fortunately it snaps up the front. We only have to wear it outside the compound. Some of the ladies did not even wear one. Jeddah's modernized feeling, is due to their generous flexibility with all the expatriates who dwell here.
Still uncertain to my position, I subbed for a sick teacher. 3rd grade boys, at least 24 of them, and all of them excited and energetic. By the end of the day, my feet were swollen and my brain full of names that I've already forgotten. People were friendly and sweet.
After a quick brake at home, we walked with all the teachers to our superintendent's to eat together. I don't recall much as I was focused intently on trying to keep my eyelids open. I did 'win' a mug, for having been in the most countries. I'm sure I made a GREAT impression... quite, monosyllabic and dazed. Won't they be surprised when jet-lag wears off. (Smile)
September 29th:
This morning we were up and off to the 'VAMPIRES' at 9:30. The hospital was interesting. White walls highlighted the 'shadow people' accompanied by the 'Man who can see them', to get things done. Children are free to roam and run, expressing themselves loudly. Especially the boys. They are cute though. It is noticeable who is the priority, by the length of time we had to wait for things to get done. After blood and pictures (ex-rays), we walked across the dusty road, dodging cars, to another doctors office. We sat in his office together. He asked us if we could hear him, see him... and then he signed the papers and notarized them. It was very typical of my other experiences in Asian culture. At least in the states my doctor actually looked in my ears, eyes, tested my oxygen levels and blood pressure. ha ha!
First Impressions
It's Saturday... well, actually Thursday, but here in the land of dust and heat, it is our Saturday. I landed on Tuesday, September 27th, in Jeddah, a sea port city on the Red Sea. As you step off the plane you're hit with a wet heat, a real surprise, as one thinks of a 'desert' as dry. We are blessed to be near the sea.
My flight over was filled with little 'moments'. Arriving at Ohara, in the middle of transferring, the handle of my carryon broke. Now burdened with a filled to bursting carryon and purse, I dodging others scurrying to their destinations, I whipped into Starbucks for a HOT coffee and apple. A babies screaming broke out as I plopped into my seat on the VERY full plan to Frankfurt. I exchanged a resigned glance with a passing steward, both knowing what was ahead. But fortunately baby quieted, and I was moved to another seat. Across the empty seat between us, I spied the most OUTRAGEOUS pair of boots. Green alligator,fading to brown, worn by a young guy with a buzz cut, jeans and an Abercrombie T-Shirt. By the end of the flight I discovered through a 'thick' accent, that this young Polish man was a Catholic priest, who lived in Texas, and was heading to visit his folks in Poland. It takes all kinds.
Not being my 'favorite' airport, I was happy to leave Frankfurt and be on my way to Jeddah. It was not until we were getting ready to land did I begin to consider customs, the precious cargo in my carryon and the Libby's can of pumpkin in my box. Disembarking I noticed only one other woman without black garb. We were bussed to the main terminal and herded to the immigration line. We were the only flight. Surrounded by business men, I watched the other lady wander searchingly for the correct line to be in. We ended up next to each other and lo and behold, it was Deidra. She and I had been communicating regarding the visa for the last month. Conquering immigration, we grabbed our luggage and headed for customs. I had run out of tape to re-tape my boxes if they were opened, but my worry was all for not. They were run through an ex-ray machine, put on our trolly and off we went. Omar met us, and drove us to our flat. Not only were Deidra and I 'traveling buddies', but also room mates. His eye is truly on the sparrow. "And it is my desire to lavish my love on you... simply because you are my chill and I am your Father." I am truly 'lavished'!
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