Wes got a high-tech phone last night at the mall.
It's totally not fair because his is way better than mine...
Mine? About 300 dirham.
His? About 1200 dirahm.
Sad thing is I bought him the phone since he won't be paid for another month. That's OK though, he knows that he's gonna have to buy me something shiny from Tiffany's ; )
ANYWAY, want to call Wes? Send him a text message?
011 971 50 329 4592 *
*It's just the same way you call me, except his last 4 digits are different.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Out of my ears
Today I got a text message, actually three in a row, at 7 a.m. on my mobile phone. My They Might Be Giants "Telephone" ringtone had Wes and I fumbling for my phone.
HSBC, my bank here, lets me know whenever something happens to my account. This message was letting me know a large deposit was made.
"OH, I got paid today. Cool."
When I got to work it hit me that it was the end of the month, and indeed, it was time for my monthly pay.
Even cooler was the brown little envelope I got today that repaid my expenses from our move and visa processing. Instead of a check it's all cash.
Me: I feel like I just got paid off by the mob.
Co-worker: Everyone should get paid like this! It's amazing. Look at my giant envelope full of cash.
HSBC, my bank here, lets me know whenever something happens to my account. This message was letting me know a large deposit was made.
"OH, I got paid today. Cool."
When I got to work it hit me that it was the end of the month, and indeed, it was time for my monthly pay.
Even cooler was the brown little envelope I got today that repaid my expenses from our move and visa processing. Instead of a check it's all cash.
Me: I feel like I just got paid off by the mob.
Co-worker: Everyone should get paid like this! It's amazing. Look at my giant envelope full of cash.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
A Lebanese night out
The Lebanese Flower is located just around the corner from our hotel. Thanks to James and his nifty new Nikon camera, we have some photos of our evening.
The bright outside sign and garden/outdoor seating.
Shwarma, anyone? A sandwich costs about 3 Dirham (less than $1).
A man making some tasty falafel.
On the phone with my Mom. Also note the food spread.
The aftermath of our meal.
Wes and James smoke shisha (or as known in the West, hooka).
Wes and I.
Elysia gets her after dinner treat.... Mmmmm.... chocolate milkshake.
The bright outside sign and garden/outdoor seating.
Shwarma, anyone? A sandwich costs about 3 Dirham (less than $1).
A man making some tasty falafel.
On the phone with my Mom. Also note the food spread.
The aftermath of our meal.
Wes and James smoke shisha (or as known in the West, hooka).
Wes and I.
Elysia gets her after dinner treat.... Mmmmm.... chocolate milkshake.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
::Drumroll::
Wes got a job today! Hooray!
So it looks like we're officially going to not be poor (or less poor) for once in our lives. Not only that but he doesn't get deported!
Deported? I bet your scratching your heads at that one. Well here's the big secret...
We found out, after getting married, that wives cannot sponsor husbands AND THAT only husbands can sponsor wives. So we got married in a rush for nothing! OK, not for nothing... but it was a big reason for getting married before we left.
We didn't want to tell everyone because we knew people would start freaking out. (Sorry moms and dads!)
Thankfully he's got a job doing IT at my company. They really needed someone who spoke English and knew networking/computer systems/etc. so it worked out anyway.
And, yes, we're still planning that big Michigan wedding/reception. Stay tuned for details.
So it looks like we're officially going to not be poor (or less poor) for once in our lives. Not only that but he doesn't get deported!
Deported? I bet your scratching your heads at that one. Well here's the big secret...
We found out, after getting married, that wives cannot sponsor husbands AND THAT only husbands can sponsor wives. So we got married in a rush for nothing! OK, not for nothing... but it was a big reason for getting married before we left.
We didn't want to tell everyone because we knew people would start freaking out. (Sorry moms and dads!)
Thankfully he's got a job doing IT at my company. They really needed someone who spoke English and knew networking/computer systems/etc. so it worked out anyway.
And, yes, we're still planning that big Michigan wedding/reception. Stay tuned for details.
Towel weekend
I'm foreseeing a poolside/beach weekend in our near future. Tomorrow it's supposed to be 86 and sunny. This weekend, a bit cooler at 77 ... but sunny.
Don't worry, I'm sure by April I'm going to grow to hate the sun. Especially when it's muggy and 95 everyday.
Don't worry, I'm sure by April I'm going to grow to hate the sun. Especially when it's muggy and 95 everyday.
V? What about X?
Flash back to 2001: Elysia goes away for the summer to Europe where she literately bounces around Europe. Why does she bounce?
This is why:
V: Also known as liquid crack
I know what you're thinking, "Elysia, it's just Red Bull but with a different name." WRONG. So wrong. Two cans of this stuff will make you talk faster than you ever have in your whole life. You'll clean the house, do laundry, organize your drawers and scrub the insides of your fridge. That's two 250 ml cans. IMAGINE what three cans can do to a person...
So, what's in it? "A carbonated energy drink with 5 essential vitamins, invigorates you, replenishes energy levels, and improves mental alertness." Essential vitamins? I didn't know crack became classified as a vitamin.
And then you get into the small print near the bottom: "Not suitable for children, pregnant or lactating women, or persons sensitive to caffeine. Usage 2 cans max daily."
Needless to say, they don't sell this stuff in America. Probably because you never find out what the "5 essential vitamins" are since things don't have to be fully labeled here.
::slurp::
Good thing we're not in American anymore.
This is why:
V: Also known as liquid crack
I know what you're thinking, "Elysia, it's just Red Bull but with a different name." WRONG. So wrong. Two cans of this stuff will make you talk faster than you ever have in your whole life. You'll clean the house, do laundry, organize your drawers and scrub the insides of your fridge. That's two 250 ml cans. IMAGINE what three cans can do to a person...
So, what's in it? "A carbonated energy drink with 5 essential vitamins, invigorates you, replenishes energy levels, and improves mental alertness." Essential vitamins? I didn't know crack became classified as a vitamin.
And then you get into the small print near the bottom: "Not suitable for children, pregnant or lactating women, or persons sensitive to caffeine. Usage 2 cans max daily."
Needless to say, they don't sell this stuff in America. Probably because you never find out what the "5 essential vitamins" are since things don't have to be fully labeled here.
::slurp::
Good thing we're not in American anymore.
Monday, February 25, 2008
RE: Another Seattle throwback? Probably.
I wasn't going to post about our meal at Al Fanar yet because I was hoping we could get some of our photos to accompany this entry. Normal that wouldn't be a problem but now our camera won't connect to the computer for some god awful reason. This is officially the last straw concerning the camera. Thank god I get paid on Friday.
Anyway, about dinner... here are the two highlights.
The View: I thought it was amazing. I think Wes did too, even though he downplayed it the next day for some reason. The feeling of rotating was a bit odd though. I compared it to feeling drunk and watching the room spin — just at a slower speed. Eventually you do "stabilize" and don't notice it as much. We both agreed that lunch might be a better time to go because you can see more of Abu Dhabi. It's actually surprising how many building are not lit at night in the capitol.
The best salmon, ever: I have never tasted better salmon than what Wes ordered as an appetizer. And this is coming from someone who lived in the Pacific Northwest for over three years (and ate great fish all of the time). The dish he ordered had raw, bright-red cuts of Norway salmon that seriously felt like they were melting in my mouth. Accompanying the salmon was a thin cream cheese roll on the side with sliced and marinated cuts of shaved apple. The overall presentation was also great. I had a bowl of creamy potato soup with truffle. Although good, it wasn't the salmon dish.
The rest of dinner was good but not something to write home about. The service was good and attentive. My main course was good but I wouldn't order it again (beef tenderloin with a mustard-gravy). Dessert was good, although not what I was expecting (it was a malvia pudding from South Africa).
But yes, I'd definitely go back and try something else. Oh, and I'd get the salmon.
Anyway, about dinner... here are the two highlights.
The View: I thought it was amazing. I think Wes did too, even though he downplayed it the next day for some reason. The feeling of rotating was a bit odd though. I compared it to feeling drunk and watching the room spin — just at a slower speed. Eventually you do "stabilize" and don't notice it as much. We both agreed that lunch might be a better time to go because you can see more of Abu Dhabi. It's actually surprising how many building are not lit at night in the capitol.
The best salmon, ever: I have never tasted better salmon than what Wes ordered as an appetizer. And this is coming from someone who lived in the Pacific Northwest for over three years (and ate great fish all of the time). The dish he ordered had raw, bright-red cuts of Norway salmon that seriously felt like they were melting in my mouth. Accompanying the salmon was a thin cream cheese roll on the side with sliced and marinated cuts of shaved apple. The overall presentation was also great. I had a bowl of creamy potato soup with truffle. Although good, it wasn't the salmon dish.
The rest of dinner was good but not something to write home about. The service was good and attentive. My main course was good but I wouldn't order it again (beef tenderloin with a mustard-gravy). Dessert was good, although not what I was expecting (it was a malvia pudding from South Africa).
But yes, I'd definitely go back and try something else. Oh, and I'd get the salmon.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Show and tell
A SMALL sampling of the produce section.
One of Wes' favorites: Rambutans.
Bag of chewy sugar cane.
A WHITE and RED kiwi.
Basic root vegetables and some other stuff.
One of Wes' favorites: Rambutans.
Bag of chewy sugar cane.
A WHITE and RED kiwi.
Basic root vegetables and some other stuff.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Another Seattle throwback? Probably.
Tonight Wes and I have dinner reservations at Al Fanar, the revolving restaurant at Le Royal Meridien. While the food is supposed to be fantastic (ex. malva pudding with black truffle ice cream), the view of the city is supposed to be equally as great.
Again, we promise pictures.
it is so amazing
my mustache that is. E insisted that I shave it for my interview, but she failed to realise that the entire IT department consists of Indians and Pakistanis, all of whom have mustaches. i took some photos of it when it was in the Ghengis Khan style as well as the more common place sherrify look it is now and will post them when I am able to have internet without going to the coffee place around the corner.
so far the temp has been quite nice, especially after coming from michigan with a foot of snow. I need to get a new set of sunglasses however, my eyes have been feeling sunburned.
the smells, colourful stores and signs, the blue skies, the greenery everywhere mixed in with the sand, rocks, and roads, the call to prayer five times a day, and most especially getting refamiliarised with the metric system for driving and the daily temp. it is all like some flashback to earlier in my life. I intend to get a recording of the calls to pray for those of you who have never heard it before, it is quite interesting as it is sung 5 times a day, and sounds quite pleasing. I am sure that anyone who lives right next to a mosque thinks I am crazy to say so as the loudspeakers are meant to be heard a great distance.
Every block we drive by is full of excitement, there is more construction here than I have ever seen in any city I have visited in my life. In just a few blocks, there are more cranes throwing up massive buildings than the entire city of Seattle. It is common to see 5 cranes all taking turns lifting loads in one block at all hours of the day and night. As soon as I can find a suitable place where to take photos from I will post some to show as much as possible the extent of the city. Everywhere I look there are buildings, all of which average around 20 storeys. the quality of them is unbelievable. in the US most buildings are built using cheaper materials, but here everything is marble, hardwood, and beautifully ornamented. The architecture tends to be a great mix of Islamic and western styles, with many buildings varying from each other in design and details. this makes for some amazing scenery, as everything we drive by looks different from many of the surrounding buildings. All of these buildings have small businesses on the bottom floors, and the range of available services puts many cities to shame. Instead of a few large chains (of which where are still plenty) most of the work is done in these smaller places. I will post photos in the future trying to show some of what I am trying to explain.
the plant life is surprisingly varied, and I have yet to see anywhere that has plastic plants. the cost of labour here is so low that it is possible to have armies of gardeners maintaining them so that the whole city has beautiful greenery. It is not as green as Washington but that is only because in WA it is so effortless to have green plants, the real beauty of the green here is how much work goes into maintaining it. there are more birds here than most places in the US, even the medians in the middle of the busiest roads have birds nesting, a meter away from the drivers pounding on the horn. We have seen many stray/feral cats but so far, only a single dog. Elysia just ran out of the coffee shop to try to pat it, but reports that it growled at her. Since the only dog that is not considered unclean is the Saluki, unless its owner finds or retrieves it soon it is likely to.... not last long.....
the most fun thing to do is drive around in the taxis, they drive pretty wildly, and it is like an exciting rollercoaster ride every time. they love the horn, it is the most commonly used thing on the roads aside from the gas pedal (used to suddenly increase speed to intimidate the pedestrians who look like they were about to dare to cross the road)
parking here is very funny, I got a couple of shots of how it works here. seeing a whole line of cars parked is one thing, then realising that they are all parked in the middle of the road makes it quite another. I hope we can get a car at some point in the future, I am excited to drive.
I went to the mall and once again, was surprised at the quality of everything. it is multiple floors and there are fountains, sculptures, and finely done tiled floors everywhere. the underground store Carrefour was the most extensive grocery and goods store I have seen yet. Think of the best specialty markets where you can get high end items from around the world and imagine about 5 of those all combined with a super large Meijer (Fred Meyer for you west coasters) Throw in a few ethnic markets and that is what this place was like. any kind of fruit that you can get anywhere in the world is available fresh and beautiful in this HUGE area. I found fresh rambutan and Durian even! the next section has spices that it isnt worth mentioning since the majority of them are not available in the US. this is probably another 'need a photo' item, and some will be on the way soon.
E is looking bored right now so ill write more later. having a hot laptop sitting on my lap at the moment is starting to get uncomfortable too. I could write all kinds of stuff, but will save that for a time when I can get the photos online. This will happen as soon as I get the proper transformer and plug for my external drive where I save the photos.
more to come later, Ill find out tomorrow about the job, so I should soon have a laptop and a way to get online.
richest city in the world indeed. it is cheap to do most things, so anyone who wants to visit should come, but maybe not for a while as the summer months are going to be scorching hot and might result in skin grafts for anyone visiting from any of the more northern states, I hope to have a semi protective tan before I get to that point myself.
so far the temp has been quite nice, especially after coming from michigan with a foot of snow. I need to get a new set of sunglasses however, my eyes have been feeling sunburned.
the smells, colourful stores and signs, the blue skies, the greenery everywhere mixed in with the sand, rocks, and roads, the call to prayer five times a day, and most especially getting refamiliarised with the metric system for driving and the daily temp. it is all like some flashback to earlier in my life. I intend to get a recording of the calls to pray for those of you who have never heard it before, it is quite interesting as it is sung 5 times a day, and sounds quite pleasing. I am sure that anyone who lives right next to a mosque thinks I am crazy to say so as the loudspeakers are meant to be heard a great distance.
Every block we drive by is full of excitement, there is more construction here than I have ever seen in any city I have visited in my life. In just a few blocks, there are more cranes throwing up massive buildings than the entire city of Seattle. It is common to see 5 cranes all taking turns lifting loads in one block at all hours of the day and night. As soon as I can find a suitable place where to take photos from I will post some to show as much as possible the extent of the city. Everywhere I look there are buildings, all of which average around 20 storeys. the quality of them is unbelievable. in the US most buildings are built using cheaper materials, but here everything is marble, hardwood, and beautifully ornamented. The architecture tends to be a great mix of Islamic and western styles, with many buildings varying from each other in design and details. this makes for some amazing scenery, as everything we drive by looks different from many of the surrounding buildings. All of these buildings have small businesses on the bottom floors, and the range of available services puts many cities to shame. Instead of a few large chains (of which where are still plenty) most of the work is done in these smaller places. I will post photos in the future trying to show some of what I am trying to explain.
the plant life is surprisingly varied, and I have yet to see anywhere that has plastic plants. the cost of labour here is so low that it is possible to have armies of gardeners maintaining them so that the whole city has beautiful greenery. It is not as green as Washington but that is only because in WA it is so effortless to have green plants, the real beauty of the green here is how much work goes into maintaining it. there are more birds here than most places in the US, even the medians in the middle of the busiest roads have birds nesting, a meter away from the drivers pounding on the horn. We have seen many stray/feral cats but so far, only a single dog. Elysia just ran out of the coffee shop to try to pat it, but reports that it growled at her. Since the only dog that is not considered unclean is the Saluki, unless its owner finds or retrieves it soon it is likely to.... not last long.....
the most fun thing to do is drive around in the taxis, they drive pretty wildly, and it is like an exciting rollercoaster ride every time. they love the horn, it is the most commonly used thing on the roads aside from the gas pedal (used to suddenly increase speed to intimidate the pedestrians who look like they were about to dare to cross the road)
parking here is very funny, I got a couple of shots of how it works here. seeing a whole line of cars parked is one thing, then realising that they are all parked in the middle of the road makes it quite another. I hope we can get a car at some point in the future, I am excited to drive.
I went to the mall and once again, was surprised at the quality of everything. it is multiple floors and there are fountains, sculptures, and finely done tiled floors everywhere. the underground store Carrefour was the most extensive grocery and goods store I have seen yet. Think of the best specialty markets where you can get high end items from around the world and imagine about 5 of those all combined with a super large Meijer (Fred Meyer for you west coasters) Throw in a few ethnic markets and that is what this place was like. any kind of fruit that you can get anywhere in the world is available fresh and beautiful in this HUGE area. I found fresh rambutan and Durian even! the next section has spices that it isnt worth mentioning since the majority of them are not available in the US. this is probably another 'need a photo' item, and some will be on the way soon.
E is looking bored right now so ill write more later. having a hot laptop sitting on my lap at the moment is starting to get uncomfortable too. I could write all kinds of stuff, but will save that for a time when I can get the photos online. This will happen as soon as I get the proper transformer and plug for my external drive where I save the photos.
more to come later, Ill find out tomorrow about the job, so I should soon have a laptop and a way to get online.
richest city in the world indeed. it is cheap to do most things, so anyone who wants to visit should come, but maybe not for a while as the summer months are going to be scorching hot and might result in skin grafts for anyone visiting from any of the more northern states, I hope to have a semi protective tan before I get to that point myself.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Complain-o-the-day
Taco Bell.
That's what this place is missing.
Even among the sea of TGI Friday's, Chili's, McDonald's, Hardees, Burger King, Starbucks, Cosi, Pizza Hut and KFC there isn't a thing like Taco Bell.
(There is, however, a Chi-Chi's. Go figure.)
Yes, I'm loving all the exotic fruit, cheeses and fine dinning....
But all I want at this very moment is a .89 cent bean burrito with no onions and extra sour cream. Oh, and a few packets of hot sauce with clever (but dumb sayings) printed under the Taco Bell logo.
That's what this place is missing.
Even among the sea of TGI Friday's, Chili's, McDonald's, Hardees, Burger King, Starbucks, Cosi, Pizza Hut and KFC there isn't a thing like Taco Bell.
(There is, however, a Chi-Chi's. Go figure.)
Yes, I'm loving all the exotic fruit, cheeses and fine dinning....
But all I want at this very moment is a .89 cent bean burrito with no onions and extra sour cream. Oh, and a few packets of hot sauce with clever (but dumb sayings) printed under the Taco Bell logo.
A visual for all curious parties
Until I get home for a photo...
It's a bit like this:
Yesterday I was also informed that he was going to buy mustache wax so he could have add a "more pronounced curl" to the ends.
Some couples fight due to jealousy or money ... we fight over facial hair.
It's a bit like this:
Yesterday I was also informed that he was going to buy mustache wax so he could have add a "more pronounced curl" to the ends.
Some couples fight due to jealousy or money ... we fight over facial hair.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Safe and sound and hairy
Wes made it to Abu Dhabi very very early this morning. Although it took him forever to go through customs (I was actually starting to worry because he was the last one to come out), he's here and in one piece.
And yes, I had good reason for my previous post on not remembering what he looks like. He arrived with the most ridiculous (but hilarious) sheriff-inspired mustache. Yes, it even curls at the ends. He's been told (by me) that he has to shave before his job interview on Thursday. He was not happy and informed me, "I've been growing this for three months!" To which I replied, "I don't care."
I will let nothing stand in our way of FINALLY become financially stable. Not even a mustache. And everyone knows how much I enjoy a good mustache.
And yes, I had good reason for my previous post on not remembering what he looks like. He arrived with the most ridiculous (but hilarious) sheriff-inspired mustache. Yes, it even curls at the ends. He's been told (by me) that he has to shave before his job interview on Thursday. He was not happy and informed me, "I've been growing this for three months!" To which I replied, "I don't care."
I will let nothing stand in our way of FINALLY become financially stable. Not even a mustache. And everyone knows how much I enjoy a good mustache.
I'm WAY official now
Today I got my residences visa! Hooray! I can now travel and leave the country as I please.
I guess a month wasn't too long, although the process was kind of insane. Beyond the fingerprinting, photographs, x-rays and mounds of paperwork I also got tested for HIV/AIDS twice! I am negativeX2. Ha.
Next up, since I now have a residence visa...
-U.A.E. Drivers License
-U.A.E. Drinking License
You're going to be soooo jealous when I show you my drinking license.
I guess a month wasn't too long, although the process was kind of insane. Beyond the fingerprinting, photographs, x-rays and mounds of paperwork I also got tested for HIV/AIDS twice! I am negativeX2. Ha.
Next up, since I now have a residence visa...
-U.A.E. Drivers License
-U.A.E. Drinking License
You're going to be soooo jealous when I show you my drinking license.
Monday, February 18, 2008
About a month and a half
It's been that long since I've seen Wes. It's true.
But the wait is almost over. In a few hours I'll hire a cab and retrieve my husband from the airport.
Although we've gone longer without seeing each other (remember when Wes and I lived apart for eight months when I first got to Washington?), it's always seems hard to be separated for longer than a week's time. It's strange because it seems that whenever we are apart for longer than a month we both forget the little things about the other. Like, right now, I'm having the hardest time remember what he looks like. OK, I know what he looks like, but I've forgotten smaller details that you take for granted when you're around a person a lot.
But most of all I'm excited and curious for him to see things in Abu Dhabi... like the shops and buildings.. not to mention our downgraded hotel. Ha. I'm even more excited to go pick out our "new life" together.
Things are really getting good now.
But the wait is almost over. In a few hours I'll hire a cab and retrieve my husband from the airport.
Although we've gone longer without seeing each other (remember when Wes and I lived apart for eight months when I first got to Washington?), it's always seems hard to be separated for longer than a week's time. It's strange because it seems that whenever we are apart for longer than a month we both forget the little things about the other. Like, right now, I'm having the hardest time remember what he looks like. OK, I know what he looks like, but I've forgotten smaller details that you take for granted when you're around a person a lot.
But most of all I'm excited and curious for him to see things in Abu Dhabi... like the shops and buildings.. not to mention our downgraded hotel. Ha. I'm even more excited to go pick out our "new life" together.
Things are really getting good now.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
It wasn't a trash can after all!
Or should I say a rubbish bin? (Everything here is English-English.)
Anyway, the mail I sent out over a month ago FINALLY arrived at my Mom's house on Saturday. I was really worried that I had dumped the stamped letters into the trash after not being able to get confirmation on if the red box, was indeed, a mailbox.
No word yet from my Dad if he has received his birthday card.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Too exclusive to say no
Today I got this response from some co-workers:
"Ooooohhhh... you're going out to dinner with someone who is NOT your husband... ON VALENTINE'S DAY?!?"
Yes. Yes I am.
I'm going out to dinner with a copy editor at work. James, a self-proclaimed foodie with a lot of street cred, got reservations at the Italian restaurant in the Millennium Hotel. Hard to come-by reservations are not a thing I can pass up.
James met the chef last night and apparently got chummy with him. And that's the only reason we got reservations.
I'll let you know how the food (and wine) is.
Hey! I know you expected me to sit at home by myself and cry but if Wes isn't here then I go on about my day as if it weren't Valentine's Day. Just another day with a can't-pass-up dining reservation.
Hilarious and sad
Don't know if you caught this story but check out how the U.A.E.'s neighboring country is NOT celebrating Valentine's Day today.
Saudi Arabia bans all things red ahead of Valentine's Day
Every year, officials with the conservative Muslim kingdom's Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice clamp down on shops a few days before February 14, instructing them to remove red roses, red wrapping paper, gift boxes and teddy bears. On the eve of the holiday, they raid stores and seize symbols of love."
Wow, right? The part that gets me is that they have a REAL Vice Squad! Just like in "Thank You for Smoking" but not for the same things.
Don't worry, a clampdown isn't the case here. Red roses, stuffed animals, cards and sediments of love are everywhere.
Saudi Arabia bans all things red ahead of Valentine's Day
Every year, officials with the conservative Muslim kingdom's Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice clamp down on shops a few days before February 14, instructing them to remove red roses, red wrapping paper, gift boxes and teddy bears. On the eve of the holiday, they raid stores and seize symbols of love."
Wow, right? The part that gets me is that they have a REAL Vice Squad! Just like in "Thank You for Smoking" but not for the same things.
Don't worry, a clampdown isn't the case here. Red roses, stuffed animals, cards and sediments of love are everywhere.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Loving it!
Totally pointless update, but I just wanted to express how much fun I'm having at work today!
Seriously.
I'm learning some great stuff.
Seriously.
I'm learning some great stuff.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Better than any Wal-Mart greeter
Nothing greets customers and small children like this guy.
"Welcome to the Abu Dhabi Co-op. You like balloon? Sledgehammer?"
Everyday he is there. And every time I laugh. Not only is it bizarre and funny but because it's the Purple Teletubbie, Tinky Winky. Only if they knew about the Tinky Winky rumors ...
"Welcome to the Abu Dhabi Co-op. You like balloon? Sledgehammer?"
Everyday he is there. And every time I laugh. Not only is it bizarre and funny but because it's the Purple Teletubbie, Tinky Winky. Only if they knew about the Tinky Winky rumors ...
One month anniversary
Today marks 30 days of being in Abu Dhabi. I survived. I'm still here.
Today also marks the saddest day of my journey, yet. I had to move out of my five star residence at the Le Meridian Hotel. The company said that 2,000 Dirhams a day was too pricey (that's about $700 a day). So, since my apartment is still not ready they've moved me into the Rammy Residence Hotel.
And with that, I have to say boo because, well, it ain't the Meridian.
Well, it was fun while it lasted.
Today also marks the saddest day of my journey, yet. I had to move out of my five star residence at the Le Meridian Hotel. The company said that 2,000 Dirhams a day was too pricey (that's about $700 a day). So, since my apartment is still not ready they've moved me into the Rammy Residence Hotel.
And with that, I have to say boo because, well, it ain't the Meridian.
Well, it was fun while it lasted.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Woohoo! Entertainment!
I just found out Muse is coming to Dubai to play the Desert Rock Festival!
I'm pretty geeked because I actually like Muse and they put on a great show. At least they did when I saw them in Chicago last year. Not only that, but it's finally a concert I want to see (so far Elton John and David Gray have been the only touring acts that have had stops here).
Also playing the festival: As I Lay Dying, Velvet Revolver, Marky Ramone and a bunch of other bands I don't know/care to see (such as Korn).
I'm pretty geeked because I actually like Muse and they put on a great show. At least they did when I saw them in Chicago last year. Not only that, but it's finally a concert I want to see (so far Elton John and David Gray have been the only touring acts that have had stops here).
Also playing the festival: As I Lay Dying, Velvet Revolver, Marky Ramone and a bunch of other bands I don't know/care to see (such as Korn).
Dog fever
The hardest part about taking this new job is definitely being so far from my dog. Sorry, family and friends, I miss you but I REALLY miss my Cassie.
I'm glad that my mom is doing such a great job with her. Basically to the point of spoiling her by feeding her chicken and steak. But I'm really going through dog withdrawal.
Coming home from work without a wagging greeting is hard. Not being able to cuddle is the hardest.
It sounds pathetic but my dog is really like my child and I miss her. An Irish copy editor here is going through the same pains I am. Actually, he's worse believe it or not. He couldn't even talk about his dog with me without getting choked up. But I understood what he was trying to say.
Really though, I'm glad I didn't bring Cassie along. It's not a good place for dogs. There isn't a lot of grass (which should be obvious since I'm in a desert) and there certainly aren't quality pet stores. There's only one animal hospital. And, well, most people consider dogs "unclean" (although cats are A-OK).
But I don't think I can wait until June to have dog interaction. Really, that's far too long. I'm not saying I'm getting a dog. There's no way I'll do that because I don't want the pains of having to make another decision on what to do when I leave. But I have scouted K-9 Friends, a local rescue group, and have volunteered to do kennel work. Depending on how the next few weeks pan out, I am also considering fostering a dog.
Oh, and I signed Wes up as well.. and he didn't know that. But now he does.
I'm glad that my mom is doing such a great job with her. Basically to the point of spoiling her by feeding her chicken and steak. But I'm really going through dog withdrawal.
Coming home from work without a wagging greeting is hard. Not being able to cuddle is the hardest.
It sounds pathetic but my dog is really like my child and I miss her. An Irish copy editor here is going through the same pains I am. Actually, he's worse believe it or not. He couldn't even talk about his dog with me without getting choked up. But I understood what he was trying to say.
Really though, I'm glad I didn't bring Cassie along. It's not a good place for dogs. There isn't a lot of grass (which should be obvious since I'm in a desert) and there certainly aren't quality pet stores. There's only one animal hospital. And, well, most people consider dogs "unclean" (although cats are A-OK).
But I don't think I can wait until June to have dog interaction. Really, that's far too long. I'm not saying I'm getting a dog. There's no way I'll do that because I don't want the pains of having to make another decision on what to do when I leave. But I have scouted K-9 Friends, a local rescue group, and have volunteered to do kennel work. Depending on how the next few weeks pan out, I am also considering fostering a dog.
Oh, and I signed Wes up as well.. and he didn't know that. But now he does.
Lots of poking
In the past few days I've had my fingerprints taken, blood drawn, urine tested, chest x-rayed and, in between, lots of poking. Tomorrow is my final health test to prove that I am 1.)Free of disease (especially HIV/AIDS) and that I am 2.)Fit for work.
Anything less of 100% is grounds for deportation. I kid. Grounds for deportation are positive test results for infectious diseases.
My work/residence visa should be in my hot little hands by Wednesday. Then I'll be able to come and go out of the country as I please. (I've been looking at spending a long weekend in Bangkok since airfare and hotel are so cheap.)
Oh, and FYI, I'll be back in the U.S. in June for Mike and Kim's wedding.
Anything less of 100% is grounds for deportation. I kid. Grounds for deportation are positive test results for infectious diseases.
My work/residence visa should be in my hot little hands by Wednesday. Then I'll be able to come and go out of the country as I please. (I've been looking at spending a long weekend in Bangkok since airfare and hotel are so cheap.)
Oh, and FYI, I'll be back in the U.S. in June for Mike and Kim's wedding.
Friday, February 08, 2008
New do
Since some of you asked to see my haircut, vola! It feels nice to have a lot of the weight off.
(My apologies that some of the pictures look "emo" but I wanted to show the different angles. Just keep telling yourselves that "emo" girls do not wear bright yellow.)
(My apologies that some of the pictures look "emo" but I wanted to show the different angles. Just keep telling yourselves that "emo" girls do not wear bright yellow.)
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Fun on a Wednesday night
Sean scored some "questionable" booze from a store, which sprouted an impromptu party in my room tonight. I even went out a bought some chips for the occasion. With a total of about eight of us, we listened to a "fine" selection of rap and watched my new favorite show "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." (Anyone who has not seen that show and who is a big fan of "Seinfeld," "The Office" or "Curb" needs to run out and get it. Totally amazing.)
After that we went to the sports bar downstairs and Matt told AMAZING Abu Dhabi stories. AMAZING. I've went the extra mile with my blog audience in mind and wrote them down. I'll transcribe them tomorrow when I get some energy.
Anyway, we had a great time.
OH, how could I forget?! I got my first ever Abu Dhabi haircut tonigh! Needless to say, I LOVE IT! (A girlfriend of someone at the paper did it.) Picture to come (when my camera isn't dead).
After that we went to the sports bar downstairs and Matt told AMAZING Abu Dhabi stories. AMAZING. I've went the extra mile with my blog audience in mind and wrote them down. I'll transcribe them tomorrow when I get some energy.
Anyway, we had a great time.
OH, how could I forget?! I got my first ever Abu Dhabi haircut tonigh! Needless to say, I LOVE IT! (A girlfriend of someone at the paper did it.) Picture to come (when my camera isn't dead).
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Pretending is fun, and so is banking?!
I think my personal banker has a "thing" for me.
First of all, I'm not supposed to have a personal banker.
Personal bankers are for those people who are making, oh, millions. But, somehow, I ended up with one. What is a personal banker? Well... a personal banker means never having to wait in line, fill out annoying forms or needing to call a 1-800 number. A personal banker calls you Mrs. Smith and is at your beck-and-call (this means you can call him at home). A personal banker fetches coffee and mixes in your cream and sugar.
Anyway, when I opened my bank account on Sunday I didn't really understand that "if you have any problems or questions come or call me" thing. I mean, I though it was just something nice he was supposed to say. So when I stood in line today (standing in line to get a number so I could wait in another line) I was surprised to see him pop up at my side at escort me to his desk.
I cannot express how much time and frustration this is going to save me.
I guess I should have figured this out. All of my colleagues thought it odd when my checkbook arrived, hand delivered, at work in two-days time (and, for the U.A.E.... two days is RECORD time).
"I've been waiting for over a week for my checkbook! And they aren't delivering it to me. I have to go pick it up!" one exclaimed. "I've also been waiting for over a week to get approval on my form to do balance transfers."
I didn't dare tell him that my balance transfer ability was approved in a matter of minutes. I thought that might crush his spirits.
So yea, back to what I was saying... I think my personal banker has a thing for me. He keeps asking if my husband is coming and when. I don't think he believes that I am married. Maybe its because I laugh and smile every time I say that I am (sorry, but it's kind of funny and I can't help it).
I almost don't want to have a husband if it's going to end my personal banking. Oops. Did I just say that out loud?
First of all, I'm not supposed to have a personal banker.
Personal bankers are for those people who are making, oh, millions. But, somehow, I ended up with one. What is a personal banker? Well... a personal banker means never having to wait in line, fill out annoying forms or needing to call a 1-800 number. A personal banker calls you Mrs. Smith and is at your beck-and-call (this means you can call him at home). A personal banker fetches coffee and mixes in your cream and sugar.
Anyway, when I opened my bank account on Sunday I didn't really understand that "if you have any problems or questions come or call me" thing. I mean, I though it was just something nice he was supposed to say. So when I stood in line today (standing in line to get a number so I could wait in another line) I was surprised to see him pop up at my side at escort me to his desk.
I cannot express how much time and frustration this is going to save me.
I guess I should have figured this out. All of my colleagues thought it odd when my checkbook arrived, hand delivered, at work in two-days time (and, for the U.A.E.... two days is RECORD time).
"I've been waiting for over a week for my checkbook! And they aren't delivering it to me. I have to go pick it up!" one exclaimed. "I've also been waiting for over a week to get approval on my form to do balance transfers."
I didn't dare tell him that my balance transfer ability was approved in a matter of minutes. I thought that might crush his spirits.
So yea, back to what I was saying... I think my personal banker has a thing for me. He keeps asking if my husband is coming and when. I don't think he believes that I am married. Maybe its because I laugh and smile every time I say that I am (sorry, but it's kind of funny and I can't help it).
I almost don't want to have a husband if it's going to end my personal banking. Oops. Did I just say that out loud?
Monday, February 04, 2008
In case you don't believe me
Here's the scoop on Abu Dhabi, from someone else mouth. A little paper called the Chicago Tribune has a story. Check it out.
If you loved 'Fun on the Beach'...
... you'll love this.
A shot menu from a pub I went to last week features "Blown Away" and "Slippin' Nip". Under "Blown Away" it reads, "It will really blow your mind away!" Just to over clarify... your mind only.
A shot menu from a pub I went to last week features "Blown Away" and "Slippin' Nip". Under "Blown Away" it reads, "It will really blow your mind away!" Just to over clarify... your mind only.
Odd, but true!
Weirdness is abound in A.D.
Everyday something happens. Everyday is an adventure.
This weekend was no different.
A seemingly normal invite (a joint birthday party for two adult males) surprised me.
I mean, look...
I would have never guessed Barney would show. I mean, an abundance of booze usually doesn't lead to a purple dinosaur. It may lead to other things... but never to THAT. At first I thought my lychee martinis must have some other "ingredient."
It was a great party though. And, in my opinion, got even better when I taught people the art of Flippy Cup (the Brits that played LOVED the game). I couldn't resist with a ping pong table right there.
Everyday something happens. Everyday is an adventure.
This weekend was no different.
A seemingly normal invite (a joint birthday party for two adult males) surprised me.
I mean, look...
I would have never guessed Barney would show. I mean, an abundance of booze usually doesn't lead to a purple dinosaur. It may lead to other things... but never to THAT. At first I thought my lychee martinis must have some other "ingredient."
It was a great party though. And, in my opinion, got even better when I taught people the art of Flippy Cup (the Brits that played LOVED the game). I couldn't resist with a ping pong table right there.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Great success!
I am now in possession of a fancy little bank letter.
Sean and I (Sean is my Texas work buddy who is quickly becoming my BFF) are making a run to the bank soon. Apparently the bank closes at 3p.m. Talk about banker's hours...
Can you tell that I am excited to finally cash this check? Now to wait three day for it to clear.
Sean and I (Sean is my Texas work buddy who is quickly becoming my BFF) are making a run to the bank soon. Apparently the bank closes at 3p.m. Talk about banker's hours...
Can you tell that I am excited to finally cash this check? Now to wait three day for it to clear.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Free things RULE (part 2)
Crazy.
Right after I posted about how free things kick ass... my whole day, was then, full of freebies. Creepy, right?
Right after that post I got:
1. FREE fancy breakfast
2. FREE dinner
3. FREE booze at a party
4. FREE cab ride home
5. FREE drinks at the bar after
Didn't pay for a damn thing yesterday. Today was a different story. Today cheap things RULED (a manicure, pedicure and an eyebrow wax cost me a grand total of $30).
Friday, February 01, 2008
Free things RULE
Whenever I want to have Internet access I've found I have three options:
1. Go to work: Sadly, I can only check email and blogger.com due to blocking of Web sites like MySpace, Facebook, etc.
2. Go to the mall: For an hour it costs me about $8 to check everything else. But $8 can add up and public keyboards give Elysia bad colds.
3. Rent it: My hotel room has a rental for $35 a day. SUPER pricey in my opinion for slow Internet. But I do get the pleasure of lying in bed while I blog.
Today, my whole Internet world changed when I discovered I no longer have to pay for Internet! Tada! Free HIGH SPEED Internet in my hotel lobby (really, it's not supposed to be free)! Not only does this mean I'm saving money but it also allows me to check Facebook and MySpace again (although, I can say i've missed either). It also allows me to chat with people who do not share my work hours (I'm talking to you West Coast people.... make sure you're on AIM!).
Now my only expenses are food and cab rides.
Life is good.
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