Well we actually went to work today. Sort of. Day 1 of the 3 day orientation. And it didn’t even feel like a full day of work since we got back to the hotel apartment around 2 pm. That is something to get used to! We were briefed on the ADEC code of conduct, the electronic systems, and an awesome cultural talk from an Emiratee (how do we even spell that?). She was hilarious. She went over the does and don’t in this culture.
- Don’t sit with your foot crossed and the sole facing to someone. It’s disrespectful. If you’re going to cross your leg, cross it where the sole faces downward.
- Don’t ever shake hands, pass something, or receive it using the left hand. It’s unclean!
- Personal space. Don't crowd in on the opposite sex. (not evident at stores where folks from anywhere around the world just jump in line to get helped or whatever. I'm learning to be more forceful and keep my place in line. It's crazy!
One thing that was particularly interesting is that when His Excellency Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili who is head of ADEC (I guess like the Superintendent) walks in the room or goes to speak or even leaves the room you stand up. The respect factor is huge here. They even reiterated how society puts teachers in a more respectable position then we’re used to.
Lately we’ve been trying to occupy our time with various things like grocery shopping – since we have limited space we go quite often. And now that we know our time is almost up at the hotel apartment we’ve picked out all of our furniture to furnish our villa. There are items that are quite expensive but since we know our time here is temporary we went on the cheap side. We are given $20,000 AED (dirham’s) which is about $5600 USD. So we are able to furnish the living room, all bedrooms, dining room table, and appliances and still have a little left over for kitchen items. Not bad!
Now our only real worry or concern is logistically how to get the furniture ordered, paid for, and delivered in a timely fashion. And while we don’t have our money yet – it’s all on hold. But Insha’Allah it’ll all happen somehow.
We are starting to learn how things just don’t happen as quick and as punctual and timely as we’re used to in the U.S. Today Jennifer went to get something copied at a photocopy shop and someone told her it’ll open at 5. So she waited around she then come 5:15 the shop person shows up. But the other issue is its Ramadan and things don’t get hoppin’ until the evening. Go to the mall at 10PM and it’s packed. Still bizarre to us!
Jennifer’s birthday is tomorrow and we’re thinking of attempting Mexican food. Not sure what it’ll be like. For my birthday we went to Chili’s. Food was 100% like home! Except the margarita. I just assumed you order a margarita and it’ll be the same. NO! It was so tart! But Caralyn loved it. I think she felt cool drinking what appeared to be an adult drink. But no alcohol. And when you sit down you get some dates as an appetizer. We stuck with our chips and salsa. I can still taste it! Reminded us of home!!!!
And Caralyn. Everyone just stares at her and smiles. I think they think she’s like a china doll in real life! We never leave the cab or the mall without someone just grinning when they see her! Even the other LT’s think she’s adorable. Not that she isn’t! It’s just something we never really got in the U.S. They just dote over her!
Looks like Thursday we’ll get our vehicle. We’re trying to get some clarification on the whole visa thing and renting a car. Rumor (or rumour) has it we need our residency visa. Insh’Allah we’ll have a vehicle – a Chevrolet Cruze. Better than a two door!!!
Stay Tuned…
YUM! Just like at home! Couldn't get enough salsa!
Dates - a freebie at Chili's. I actually liked them. We bought several the other day - from two different places in the Middle East. I really liked the UAE ones. Jennifer's not a fan of them!
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Cute Pic...Caralyn likes some margaritas. Of course no tequila in it!
Ties....not my friend. But they have to be here.
Say goodbye to capri's and hello to wrist, neck, and ankle. (to be covered!)
That was the "hint" to remember if clothing is appropriate for females here.
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| Edible Arrangements - even in the UAE! |
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