tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6781275227937325202024-03-04T22:26:05.149-08:00Life in the Middle EastA blog about life, photography, living and traveling abroad, and all the other stuff in between.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.comBlogger218125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-91818564943812941702017-08-19T00:16:00.001-07:002017-08-19T00:16:18.254-07:00The Other N WordA few months ago, my son and his friends took his nerf guns to the playground. A bullish group of kids rounded them up, took the nerf guns and started calling them Nazis. My son came upstairs quite bothered about the incident - and rightfully so. But he also did not completely understand why those children were behaving the way they did, and why they were calling them Nazis. He did not even know what a Nazi was at the time.<br />
<br />
"Mom, what is a Nasi?" he asked. The term was so new he didn't understand how to pronounce it correctly.<br />
<br />
A Nazi. The other N word. After the first N word, I think this one is also pretty bad. It should be pretty straight forward, but yet I find it complex. Wars always are, but this should be one of the easiest political terms to break down for a curious soon-to-be-fourth-grader.<br />
<br />
Not only could he be proud that his great grandfather was in the US Air Force at that time, but he could be sure the Nazis were very bad people. They believed they were better than everyone else, hated Jews - and probably others - and killed many people. The countries known as the Allies came together to defeat them.<br />
<br />
Our high level discussion was enough for him at the time, as the bigger, rougher kids on the playground were more a more pressing issue in his world. And frankly, those other kids probably didn't really understand what it meant either. They knew that Nazis were bad. They wanted an excuse to use some cool nerf guns, and to to play out that my son and his friends were the bad guys was their way to do it.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to a few months later. Now we see people proudly calling themselves Nazis. Only they are not misunderstanding a word on the playground. They are running around in my country, the one that my son is a citizen of, and most identifies with in his third-cultureness using the word properly in its full context. Nazi. Wearing swastikas and demanding that everyone but them be a lesser citizen. It is shocking and horrifying.<br />
<br />
I do not know how to tell my son about this, or why this is happening. How do I explain it to a 9 year old? I can't even get my head around it. I had to check the calendar to make sure I did not time travel.<br />
<br />
Fast forward again to Friday morning Facebook scan. One of my black friends I have known since childhood posted on his wall that if you are white and do not stand with him in the fight against racism, you could unfriend him.<br />
<br />
I have had this a lot on my mind lately.. and not just since Charleston, but since, gosh, forever - whenever I see a social injustice.<br />
<br />
Most of my African American friends are pretty quiet. I am sure they are speaking out in other ways. And I don't think everyone has to overshare their opinions on Facebook either, unless they want to. What is happening right now is pretty unbelievable and outrageous, and I am surprised that more people are not speaking out.<br />
<br />
I am a firm believer that complacency is just as bad. And I see so much of it. I keep thinking of Elie Wiesel, Holocaust survivor, that said "The opposite of love is not hate. It is indifference".<br />
<br />
This is what I feel I am observing. No one wants to get involved. No one wants to say anything. "It is happening over there." "Those people are crazy". "Not my circus".<br />
<br />
And to some level I get it. Who wants to get engaged in some social media battle about who is right and who is wrong because everyone seems to listen with their political ego rather than listen with their hearts. When there are a million "ya buts" and "but Obama" and "but emails" and "both sides" responses that have nothing to do with the actions of what is happening right now, I get it. But right now, for me, not saying something looks like indifference and that I do not care.<br />
<br />
So why the long post then? Because I will say this one time, and I felt it needed some background. This is why I don't do well on Twitter because expressing something so complex should be done in more than 140 characters.<br />
<br />
I feel pretty helpless. What can I possibly do from abroad other than write "my" politicians and continue to vote. There is no Facebook post profound enough to express anything that would not have already been said.<br />
<br />
But be sure my dear friend, I would absolutely stand up to a crazed racist in any second. I am with you and I stand beside you. I have no idea what it is like to walk in your shoes and what you are feeling as you watch this unfold is probably so much heavier than what I am feeling.<br />
<br />
Although I feel pretty helpless, I have decided there is one more thing I can do. The best thing I think I can do is to continue to raise my blond-headed blue eyed child to know what is right and what is wrong. Continue to send him to a school that values kindness and respects everyone there. Continue to teach him to respect all religions. Continue to expose him to the injustices of the world so that when he is older he will be part of the solution instead of a part of the problem, or not indifferent to it.<br />
<br />
While his father is from a predominantly Muslim country, he will never really "pay" that price as many Muslims do in the US due to his physical appearance. He is proud of his heritage, but no one ever stops him in an airport because of his skin color or father's origins. Instead, as a Type 1 Diabetic, he gets stopped for juice boxes and wearing a "suspicious" insulin pump that they think is a bomb. I don't share this with you for sympathy, or even empathy. I share this with you so you know the depths that the absurdity runs.<br />
<br />
This is no where near the outrage that you have had to endure my friend.<br />
<br />
I am not optimistic that all of my countrymen and women are raising their children with open hearts and open minds. This worries me - for my son's future and yours.<br />
<br />
However, be sure that I will continue to do my best to counteract the violence and hate that comes from those using the other N word.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-62617175946955708192016-01-23T06:51:00.000-08:002016-01-23T06:52:03.219-08:00The Terrace, Dubai<br />
<span style="font-family: "crimson text" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 20px;">Beyond the grass, across the creek lies a city that was once a desert...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "crimson text" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBilGDm3hYizyGivVMYSHYQMWJmLf_FBt79aAdJGph070vSOPFpeAM7T8lu8-5TKBu8jm4_R2N6hpzzq9ObgHL7DmJu_QdeF0YoszP4_mt6v63Wch-tdWto-Blou-cNIaVTwR5jUyQt-L/s1600/Terrace+1pd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBilGDm3hYizyGivVMYSHYQMWJmLf_FBt79aAdJGph070vSOPFpeAM7T8lu8-5TKBu8jm4_R2N6hpzzq9ObgHL7DmJu_QdeF0YoszP4_mt6v63Wch-tdWto-Blou-cNIaVTwR5jUyQt-L/s400/Terrace+1pd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: 'Crimson Text', serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 1.6em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
A few weeks ago images for a place called The Terrace started showing up in my Instagram feed. Last weekend I went to check it out and it did not disappoint. </div>
<div style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: 'Crimson Text', serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 1.6em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Equipped with tables, comfortable seating space, coffee, tea and a food truck, you can enjoy these small comforts as you watch one of the most spectacular sunsets in Dubai.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5APvcGnCM1CGdjIWJHXIEybR5nKz-2kr9GSXkoyKA2h0Vum6urv08RO-MS5o1usryOkgCxcNZIG15wAXzlEOYmH0aQs8yIXiJCe47EFZV5NY6oEbfLCCRVS1Tu0CsMhBHdx1UN59c1Rw/s1600/Terrace+2pd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5APvcGnCM1CGdjIWJHXIEybR5nKz-2kr9GSXkoyKA2h0Vum6urv08RO-MS5o1usryOkgCxcNZIG15wAXzlEOYmH0aQs8yIXiJCe47EFZV5NY6oEbfLCCRVS1Tu0CsMhBHdx1UN59c1Rw/s400/Terrace+2pd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7Ct2q3-DXM8tGstnvILidYecbsZz6IfsCJkvJ7T174Y0BnOCUBtlD7give-2osKlk2gefpT0q5WxhdCpXjb0PazqOLgi40-1cH_b3AbJ_qTOX8z__01pmxr7Dp7nNCsdPPnBHK_cVcAd/s1600/Terrace+5pd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7Ct2q3-DXM8tGstnvILidYecbsZz6IfsCJkvJ7T174Y0BnOCUBtlD7give-2osKlk2gefpT0q5WxhdCpXjb0PazqOLgi40-1cH_b3AbJ_qTOX8z__01pmxr7Dp7nNCsdPPnBHK_cVcAd/s400/Terrace+5pd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07ltDGFoIiTsvWCy_QNTSa3sJQnG1OPSp2nXFkKLBxqAHIytOlRwKDbVuAcf2vovJ1igXAiUMnSd3hSa7TN7BvOcDp7FJQmQZKf2vq5212a92PIxKJNYffDUJHSiYEzQ_XmOj_r0fVIAp/s1600/Terrace+6pd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07ltDGFoIiTsvWCy_QNTSa3sJQnG1OPSp2nXFkKLBxqAHIytOlRwKDbVuAcf2vovJ1igXAiUMnSd3hSa7TN7BvOcDp7FJQmQZKf2vq5212a92PIxKJNYffDUJHSiYEzQ_XmOj_r0fVIAp/s400/Terrace+6pd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: 'Crimson Text', serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 1.6em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-65879657929477940472016-01-01T02:09:00.000-08:002016-01-01T02:09:51.226-08:00Happy 2016<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zX2cqAveW84kGXzzjNRl1OeTefdZf8WrymsZ1sOHzy7q0rVqh7Z_uuo9Dx-R5s9aa11k-ZK9Bfucs83nQyLmMTcSbsTR9pudNfARRutuLFAsE592kG_7RRPiKe8RoWO50Ed-y_gLv5t8/s1600/BK+2016+NYE2+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zX2cqAveW84kGXzzjNRl1OeTefdZf8WrymsZ1sOHzy7q0rVqh7Z_uuo9Dx-R5s9aa11k-ZK9Bfucs83nQyLmMTcSbsTR9pudNfARRutuLFAsE592kG_7RRPiKe8RoWO50Ed-y_gLv5t8/s640/BK+2016+NYE2+blog.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<br />
2015 closed in a very unexpected way...<br />
<br />
We were at home as usual to enjoy the Burj Khalifa fireworks with neighbors. As the world knows, before midnight a fire broke out at one of the landmark hotels near the Burj Khalifa.<br />
<br />
While we could not see the building due to other skyscrapers in our line of sight, we could see the flames reflecting off the windows of another building.<br />
<br />
Completely confused and unexpected, we were not sure if the typical Dubai new year would continue. We turned off our music, got the kids interested in a movie and sat outside waiting to see what would happen. We were relieved to read that all were evacuated. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_fIzeWAvjZ-GTPfMl0dIDGQ8AlJNWUHTecBJ6hyphenhyphenmmFHoeJqtnaR8MLLH-qAcbzZPyhpebRg8cZ0fzYec3XJKJ8VvXzPP_XOwX_pMgFb295e0hxzTBWDUqH-hDBMVbpz2xMc9WSjSfwVB/s1600/BK+2016+NYE3+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_fIzeWAvjZ-GTPfMl0dIDGQ8AlJNWUHTecBJ6hyphenhyphenmmFHoeJqtnaR8MLLH-qAcbzZPyhpebRg8cZ0fzYec3XJKJ8VvXzPP_XOwX_pMgFb295e0hxzTBWDUqH-hDBMVbpz2xMc9WSjSfwVB/s320/BK+2016+NYE3+blog.jpg" width="209" /></a><br />
Much to our surprise, fireworks went off at midnight. They were beautiful. It was bittersweet as we could see the smoke of the hotel in the background.<br />
<br />
As one friend summed up, it was a difficult year for many. Many things happened in the world, and for others many personal changes are happening. What a surreal way to close out 2015.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwpW3mY52kVwM4hlxssorKFbpVgd68gE1SS7uKuE4MgOvn9CjYYthjll8ii4nPUgx0jX66e9xLJIwi8RAtG89U8Z7bGbOl3Sm-Ixzv5ULPOL6EsCJky_YZ8vHvPyNNQx8XPx52fQEpekOY/s1600/BK+2016+NYE1+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwpW3mY52kVwM4hlxssorKFbpVgd68gE1SS7uKuE4MgOvn9CjYYthjll8ii4nPUgx0jX66e9xLJIwi8RAtG89U8Z7bGbOl3Sm-Ixzv5ULPOL6EsCJky_YZ8vHvPyNNQx8XPx52fQEpekOY/s320/BK+2016+NYE1+blog.jpg" width="211" /></a><br />
Several weeks ago my son's Boy Scout troop got a chance to go to the fire station and meet some of the Dubai Civil Defense team. It was impressive, and I learned a lot. In particularly, I learned that they do have plans and the ability to respond to these kinds of things. I certainly wish them well and thank them for containing this to the best of their ability.<br />
<br />
No resolutions for me for 2016... 2015 closed with another reminder that we never know what the future holds and life can change in an instant.<br />
<br />
I just want to keep doing more, stay healthy and motivated to make a change in the world - even if a small one. My blog hiatus has been a result of focussing on that in the last few months of 2015.<br />
<br />
I hope that 2016 will bring a lot of change. Watch this space.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-33587885628122242132015-10-16T23:03:00.001-07:002015-10-16T23:04:22.608-07:00Chamonix & Mont Blanc<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKjwh0JG0Om-O_ra1cJsOFa7R9X3F1FndlYLE_4E3n93GwTt1bRyLEI2AeTQQv__aPWR554-Qr0ZPvzsK_Mxp0_80Tq1nOvkDqTQm_XmlLjZ3859M5LZunoqieR6nMsfLE68K-JtGgEH6/s1600/Mont+Blanc_2+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKjwh0JG0Om-O_ra1cJsOFa7R9X3F1FndlYLE_4E3n93GwTt1bRyLEI2AeTQQv__aPWR554-Qr0ZPvzsK_Mxp0_80Tq1nOvkDqTQm_XmlLjZ3859M5LZunoqieR6nMsfLE68K-JtGgEH6/s400/Mont+Blanc_2+rs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you haven't seen them yet, some images from my August trip to Chamonix are up. I didn't think I was a mountain person, but I might be now. Beautiful weather, everything outdoors - what a great place to spend the summer!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pameladurantphotography.com/chamonix---the-alps---mont-blanc">http://pameladurantphotography.com/chamonix---the-alps---mont-blanc</a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-74154980628226396202015-09-26T08:41:00.000-07:002015-10-16T23:04:46.690-07:00The Realities of LifeIt was the second week of second grade.<br />
<br />
Things were going well, but it was a sad weekend for the UAE. As if there was not enough happening on this side of the world, the UAE and some other countries have been clashing with rebels in Yemen. The UAE lost 45 soldiers over that weekend.<br />
<br />
This may be the biggest loss of its kind for this 43 year old country - it has been in the several years I have lived here. Officially three days of mourning were observed.<br />
<br />
Until now, I have somewhat sheltered my son from the harsh realities of the world. I am very matter of fact with him, but I figure in time he will learn what a challenging place the world is, so let me let him enjoy innocence as long as possible.<br />
<br />
The morning after the announcement, he caught a glimpse of a picture in the newspaper I was reading and asked me to go back to it. It was an image of the caskets returning home covered in UAE flags. While we are not citizens, my son was born here and he is quite proud of our residency. He loves the UAE and feels a sense of pride about living here.<br />
<br />
He asked me about the picture. I decided it was better he take that step with me than learn it from the playground. So I told him. I explained to him there was a battle in another country and the UAE lost many soldiers.<br />
<br />
"How many?" he asked. When I answered that question his mouth stayed open for a long time as he digested the information. He asked how they died. Unsure how deep to go, I told him it was in a battle and I was not sure.<br />
<br />
I went on to explain that this was a very sad day for the UAE and there were three official days of mourning - including 24 hours of classical music or continuous prayer on all radio channels.<br />
<br />
Being the curious child that he is, he asked to hear what was on the radio. Our usual morning show we listen to on the way to school was now a continuous stream of classical music.<br />
<br />
Thinking he might become too melancholy, I offered to play some music from my phone. "No. It's okay. Leave it." he said.<br />
<br />
After several minutes he asked me if the flags would be at half mast. I hadn't even thought of that, but I told him they probably would be. Sure enough when we arrived at school, all the flags were half mast.<br />
<br />
I left school looking at the flags again knowing that this is the day I opened the door to the other part of the world he has yet to be informed about. I barely opened it. It was just a crack, but there are so many things behind that door that we can't hold it closed forever.<br />
<br />
.... I wrote the above article the night after this discussion happened, but did not publish it right away. A few days later, the UAE had another official mourning period. This time not due to a battle, but because Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum lost one of his sons, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed. May he rest in peace.<br />
<br />
My son heard the praying on the radio and asked if it was for the soldiers. When I explained why, he did not ask too many questions this time, but spent more time thinking.... The door ever so slightly cracked a little more.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiR5F7ksQZso_F36w5vp94tt3-sUIti-ODroVlVHtOj3CWuW9Gf_SlC8L8QmdSDBaNKDCiiaz-FEdfAfnBkAD3tiS5BOBNPUPxRPPnnjSqotA2LiD9XtyPg8XhMzoJWLzO4UZY5EeDXStd/s1600/2015-09-06+08.27.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiR5F7ksQZso_F36w5vp94tt3-sUIti-ODroVlVHtOj3CWuW9Gf_SlC8L8QmdSDBaNKDCiiaz-FEdfAfnBkAD3tiS5BOBNPUPxRPPnnjSqotA2LiD9XtyPg8XhMzoJWLzO4UZY5EeDXStd/s400/2015-09-06+08.27.14.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flags at half mast in Dubai during the mourning period</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-5529444426756601302015-09-05T00:11:00.003-07:002015-09-05T00:13:03.735-07:00Syrian Refugees - How are you helping?I did not have the "typical" US university experience. I lived at home, worked and took classes at an inner city community college for a while until I moved on to a full university to complete my degree.<br />
<br />
One of the best lessons I had there was in a three minute conversation with a fellow student. We were in a very advanced math class together and this guy was incredibly intelligent. Like the guy that could always solve all the problems in any exam. He was typically quiet, but seemed so comfortable and wise with his knowledge, and knew more than the instructor.<br />
<br />
There were many international students at the school, so one day before class I inquired about his background. In that three minute conversation I learned he was from Cambodia. Before he came to the United States, he and his father lived for 10 years in a refugee camp.....<br />
<br />
This was before the internet. Before the general population had any idea of what leads up to and happens when populations are displaced. Needless to say, I was shocked when he shared his story. To my knowledge I had never met someone that lived in a refugee camp. And the fact that he lived there 10 years to get to the US to attend a community college that some people might dismiss from the definition of quality education left me speechless.<br />
<br />
Now that we have access to that information, Facebook, Twitter and all other social media have been inundated with an outcry to help Syrian refugees. The image of the boy that drowned and washed up on a beach in Turkey was a huge tipping point in this crisis, and got people's attention. I have probably seen this image 100s of times in the last two days.<br />
<br />
Is it sad, awful, and has everyone wondering "How did it get to this?" Sadly, it has been a crisis situation for some time.<br />
<br />
I could see my Facebook newsfeed full of outcry for countries and their leaders to do something. Only a few people actually shared links about how to help.<br />
<br />
Yes, there are many things countries can do, but just opening a border is not enough. Once this displaced population arrives they need the infrastructure, supplies and volunteers to help. This is where we as individuals come in. What can <b>I</b> do?<br />
<br />
I spent some time yesterday looking for specific charities that offer relief for diabetic Syrians. Since my son has Type 1, this is a subject very close to my heart. I know that a Type 1 refugee would not survive without insulin. If I were suddenly displaced, every ounce of my being would be focussed on getting insulin.<br />
<br />
Through my search, I concluded that the crisis is so big that I cannot find a way to specifically support diabetes for Syrian refugees at this time. I think this speaks to the magnitude of the situation.<br />
<br />
If you google "how to help Syrian refugees" many options come up. I have decided to start with some of the organizations in <a href="http://www.pri.org/stories/2015-09-03/5-groups-doing-important-work-help-refugees-you-may-not-have-heard" target="_blank">this article</a> from PRI.<br />
<br />
Before you dismiss it, and your potential to help, take some time to look up "famous immigrants and refugees". You will find reference to people like Steve Jobs' father (a Syrian migrant), Albert Einstein, Madeline Albright and many many others that have had a huge impact.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-21282628464071611572015-07-17T06:58:00.001-07:002015-07-17T07:03:53.045-07:00Croatia<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaa-EwYLHD34BXpLkoSO9OivKHXi4r7rAEKpbp2T9BBKLBDPq00AZ9VsQfuSqscZJyBuLj5qpKO8XJ7hCsOYeSsM2vyYkGYFwlFmG22Jm8LkVZWlUY4gjbKLR5ma5QpXPmpCXzzOfnGE0/s1600/Starfish+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaa-EwYLHD34BXpLkoSO9OivKHXi4r7rAEKpbp2T9BBKLBDPq00AZ9VsQfuSqscZJyBuLj5qpKO8XJ7hCsOYeSsM2vyYkGYFwlFmG22Jm8LkVZWlUY4gjbKLR5ma5QpXPmpCXzzOfnGE0/s1600/Starfish+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The water near Croatia's Hvar island - it really is that amazing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A few weeks ago we returned from a dream. One week in Croatia with six close friends and all seven of our children. I took over 1,100 pictures. There were many laughs shared and many memories made.<br />
<br />
After finally freeing up some space on my Mac, I was able to upload the images and relive the breathtaking experience all over again for a few short minutes.<br />
<br />
For now, I leave you with this beautiful water. It is deep. Our boat is parked. The shadow is us peering over the side of the boat amazed at the natural beauty of this place, and how clearly we could see that starfish.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-26427434000718931542015-06-23T09:39:00.000-07:002015-06-23T09:48:47.365-07:00A visit from Gurkan Genc<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbduSRoxu2MA1HVpJ-N1EMaspfG3cFTHlsRhE_CfzlCGt-JQwspwFG0x7laJ-M7eS4NexxhCFlG9FQQm3z7msZQLjbt0lDD-FXZqsfLnmOxY7FiCDUuauQcWmZjiBo11tLfVFurVBxVi_s/s1600/2015-06-23+09.26.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbduSRoxu2MA1HVpJ-N1EMaspfG3cFTHlsRhE_CfzlCGt-JQwspwFG0x7laJ-M7eS4NexxhCFlG9FQQm3z7msZQLjbt0lDD-FXZqsfLnmOxY7FiCDUuauQcWmZjiBo11tLfVFurVBxVi_s/s400/2015-06-23+09.26.44.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eat your heart out Ellen Degeneres - This selfie is way better than your "biggest" one!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The school year is almost finished in Dubai - two days to go and I will have a 2nd grader!!! Wow.<br />
<br />
Having lived in Turkey, and with a husband from Istanbul, I have had the privilege to meet some very interesting people along the way. Today one of those interesting people visited my son's school.<br />
<br />
Gurkan Genc is currently in Dubai on his trip around the world. Who is Gurkan Genc? In short, he is a guy from Turkey who is touring the world on his bicycle. Did I mention he is doing this all alone?<br />
<br />
According to his website, he started this in 2012 with a 7 year plan. He is about 3 years into it. He will cross a total of 84 countries in 7 continents over 7 years.<br />
<br />
He has seen extreme cold temperatures ranging from -57 C / -70.6 F to extreme heat, perhaps hotter than the 50 C / 120+ F he experienced biking from Saudi to Dubai.<br />
<br />
This morning he talked to over 150 first graders about his experiences. Stories included how he survives on so little, not seeing anyone or any living plant or creature for 12 days while crossing the Gobi desert in Mongolia, riding on snow and more adventures in an action packed 45 minutes.<br />
<br />
And the kids has so many interesting and relevant questions. A few of my favorites:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>How did you get water?</li>
<li>Where do you get food?</li>
<li>Why did the police follow you? (He was the first bicyclist allowed to cross Saudi, so he received a police escort for many miles. Why? "Because they liked me" he said.)</li>
<li>What was your favorite place? (Japan and a little village near Granada, Spain)</li>
<li>Do you wear a helmet?</li>
<li>What is the name of your bike?</li>
<li>Did you have training wheels?</li>
<li>Where do you poo?</li>
</ul>
They could have kept going, but due to time, I am sure he will receive many emails from a curious group of first graders. I mean, second graders.<br />
<br />
His most important message was, "Believe in yourself. And don't give up on your dreams." People told him he was crazy in the beginning. But after some time, he said "as you keep going and start achieving your goals, they will believe".<br />
<br />
If you would like to read more about Gurkan, or follow him, you can find his website <a href="http://www.gurkangenc.com/en" target="_blank">here</a> and all his other links to social media.<br />
<br />
After Dubai, he will take off to Oman and start heading to Africa. After he conquers Africa, he will head to the Americas!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-15916091137559717442015-06-19T06:28:00.000-07:002015-06-19T06:31:10.210-07:00You Could Do More?"You Can Do So Much More".... my new boss said to me yesterday.<br />
<br />
We were talking about work and she asked me what I wanted to do. She is aware of my ability - I used to be a consultant and all that good stuff. She asked me what I would like to do because I could "do so much more".<br />
<br />
She didn't mean that I am being lazy and not working. What she meant was that I can climb the corporate ladder - shoot for a higher position and whatever else comes with that.<br />
<br />
It is flattering, but I politely declined. I have worked on several projects and throughout those there is always that crazy week or two, or eight, where your life is not your own because others are late, things are chaotic and it is just out of your control because well, stuff happens. I cited this as my reason. And it is not completely untrue. I can do that from time to time, but I do not want every week of my life to resemble this.<br />
<br />
What I didn't tell her is that I already am doing more. A lot more. I pull more all nighters than I ever did as a young adult out with my friends. The amount of responsibility that comes with the role of working mom and caretaker for a Type 1 Diabetic is "So Much More".<br />
<br />
Crazy presentation to prepare, up all night waiting for others' input. I'd take that over any sick night my child has with diabetes. I promise the night full of vomiting, keytone and hypoglycemia watch, and all else that comes with that is much more challenging than building a business strategy.<br />
<br />
In addition to taking care of my son's health, I also have more opportunity to be a mom than if I were in a higher position. Diabetes aside, why would I want to miss his life events because I am over allocated? I am already multi-tasking on several things, so why would I want to carry more? I don't. I'm not sure it is possible - especially if they don't develop time travel or figure out how to make the days longer.<br />
<br />
And, while I do not have a lot of free time, I do squeeze in some diabetes advocacy and activities from time to time. Before the "Big D", I was a healthcare manager and consultant. I left that job to focus on my son's health. Yes, irony. With that background, it is very hard for me to sit back and not "do more".<br />
<br />
So could I do more? I could probably do with more sleep, but who has time for that when there is so much to be done!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQkXYqeu-dAAkTICKGKouxHHhQ2zAzirxLvauD3UjY420gYG4jPP_5zPHqgTabWqUkz2KTo6OTWPIXjIwBykZqU5p12_Il9RgwctFAZvDiHm2P9SQ-WBGZZFt4ym42GoxlvCchrpFqMM5/s1600/table+to+do.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQkXYqeu-dAAkTICKGKouxHHhQ2zAzirxLvauD3UjY420gYG4jPP_5zPHqgTabWqUkz2KTo6OTWPIXjIwBykZqU5p12_Il9RgwctFAZvDiHm2P9SQ-WBGZZFt4ym42GoxlvCchrpFqMM5/s1600/table+to+do.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-51925672119332640102015-05-15T05:51:00.002-07:002015-06-21T04:59:49.326-07:00I Love You Because You Travel<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8BSxk_pG9YShGgEK2PbTMhyphenhyphenxRQdFSRl6H7jUsTYCptRCYEOO09cdeuSUzEApsa9zZwR0IFeYsRM_1_ZPJWKBor9ynMFpLIO4aGOfowFKu2yzsZ2b3kfC94AIobNuglwUrD4YQBz6bVM_j/s1600/2015-05-15+15.35.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8BSxk_pG9YShGgEK2PbTMhyphenhyphenxRQdFSRl6H7jUsTYCptRCYEOO09cdeuSUzEApsa9zZwR0IFeYsRM_1_ZPJWKBor9ynMFpLIO4aGOfowFKu2yzsZ2b3kfC94AIobNuglwUrD4YQBz6bVM_j/s400/2015-05-15+15.35.16.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love you because you travel (with me) all the time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Once again, a bit off the blog, but I still exist in the world. Busy, but great.<br />
<br />
Last week there was a Mother's Day celebration in my son's school. They surprised us with breakfast and some of their arts and crafts. One of them was this picture. I love you because... The message from my son was "You travel (with me) all the time". He does not have the "with me" on the board, but this is what he told me as he shared why he loved me this Mother's Day.<br />
<br />
I was touched and pleased at the same time. He doesn't have to follow me, be me, be what I wasn't, be what I wish I could do, or any of that. My husband and I travel because it is what we love to do.<br />
<br />
Before having children, I always wondered if a child would slow us down. Well, it didn't. Over time, those visits to new places have become important time to explore something as a family. We love to experience the world and other cultures and places.<br />
<br />
In talking about our plans for the year, one thing my husband and I both agree on is that we will not give up our travel. There are many things we can do without, but travel is not one of them. We love it, and are fortunate that our son appreciates it too.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-92106639158182225092015-03-05T11:32:00.003-08:002015-03-05T11:33:30.420-08:00Dubai is so Clean!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge48mVRt0S7_tvzY8mG5AZ3Q83vYGXbkLCYo2FBj34FeeO2zDISxSHZ4QPmmSk995AAxoiaVayeHvcm27wHsRMY7LFHxijZ7-kfszLsUCHO2Hyef3uZ6urNwKlRF7AANLZGp1esMIVOFqA/s1600/IMG_8882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge48mVRt0S7_tvzY8mG5AZ3Q83vYGXbkLCYo2FBj34FeeO2zDISxSHZ4QPmmSk995AAxoiaVayeHvcm27wHsRMY7LFHxijZ7-kfszLsUCHO2Hyef3uZ6urNwKlRF7AANLZGp1esMIVOFqA/s1600/IMG_8882.JPG" height="352" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Last week I went to a Sting concert with friends. One of my friends went to the bathroom (portable) and when she came back she showed us a picture she took of the toilet area because it was so clean. And it was. Spotless.<br />
<br />
Fast forward a week later. I am looking for a taxi to go to an area with next to no parking. I find one and as I am walking to get in the car, the driver throws his trash out on the street?! Is he kidding me? Sadly, not.<br />
<br />
Instead of getting in the car, I went to his window and asked him if he dropped something perhaps? A little confused he asked what I was talking about. When I refused to get in his taxi until he picked up his trash, he apologized, quickly picked up his trash and put it in a plastic bag he had in the car with other trash.<br />
<br />
Despite the amount of people here cleaning, I am always shocked at the amount of trash I see thrown on the ground. I feel it is because they know someone will pick up after them? Or they really have that much disregard for the community and environment? I'm not sure which is worse.<br />
<br />
I've seen it in our parking garage. Trash that was obviously thrown out from a car parked in its designated space. I politely pick it up for them and place it on their windshield so they can easily find it when they return.<br />
<br />
I know there are a lot of things unfair about what people are paid, but what is unfair is that the society that is paid better contributes to the mess they have to clean up.<br />
<br />
As I went for a walk last night, I was reminded of this. Seeing the constant clean up around the construction sites to keep it tidy and then I came across this guy in the picture I took diligently cleaning a garbage can. Wow.<br />
<br />
Keep Dubai and the UAE Beautiful. Pick up your trash and teach your kids to do the same.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-35116314912053479882015-02-18T11:54:00.001-08:002015-02-18T11:54:55.404-08:00There is no Grey in the UAEThe decision was made a few days ago to not screen <i>Fifty Shades of Grey</i> in the UAE. It is officially banned. I also read it was banned in Kenya, Malaysia and a few other countries.<br />
<br />
I scanned social media and responses to local articles about this. And you know what? Not a single comment was negative about this decision. I think for the first time in social media in the UAE, the consensus was unanimous. Now that may not be a true representation of some of the population, but maybe no one who disagreed dared to respond to this one as many book and movie reviews have been quite harsh.<br />
<br />
No one took to protesting about rights, or if you don't want to see it, don't go to the cinema attitude. It was all a very positive "way to go".<br />
<br />
I have not read the books, although they were sold here. I realize I write this with a lot of hearsay. However, that hearsay all points in the same direction. This movie is not romantic. The characters have serious issues and it paints a very misleading picture about what love is and about how it is okay for an uber wealthy guy to use his power to control and manipulate a young girl.<br />
<br />
As the story unfolds, the amount of grey seems to grow according to the articles I've read. In seeking an objective opinion I read conservative and liberal publications. It was interesting to see my Facebook friends of both sides come together with a common opinion in my feed for a change.<br />
<br />
Stalking, breaking into your apartment, threatening you, physically harming you... all major red flags in any relationship that say you should run like mad and consider calling the police.<br />
<br />
So, now what.<br />
<br />
Go see the movie or download it if you are curious. Decide for yourself. I should, but I won't.<br />
<br />
If you look up the statistics on how many women are raped and abused by the minute, by the 1,000, its not good. And it doesn't seem to be getting better. From what I read, this film is not going to help improve this by any means.<br />
<br />
So, while some things may be controlled here in the UAE, it may not be such a bad thing. Perhaps the film is just all hype and really not abusive. In that case, then the UAE governing body that reviews and controls what is released here has done us a favor and saved us from 125 minutes of bad film.<br />
<br />
Either way, we thank you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-54962029485461400002015-01-06T09:01:00.001-08:002015-01-06T09:01:59.124-08:00Happy New YearMy New Year thoughts are on <a href="http://www.pameladurantphotography.com/happy-new-year" target="_blank">my photography site blog</a>.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you do not wish to click there, here are the images. The LED show that was seen from the front is running until January 9th at 6:45pm and 11:45pm. I can't wait to see it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQAX8IVC9oKK2-l3a2a5oRGAK9xIsmEP6za8yVucT4fS3empZsFpysqv-F3NvgCZLNFRr7RHl8_0V5CstMKfsjN8ZlCs2c4ApInRs5QwOlgYg09dON4itwlGUdUW0opcClyYBUIMafDfR/s1600/Burj+Khalifa+2015+NY+2+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQAX8IVC9oKK2-l3a2a5oRGAK9xIsmEP6za8yVucT4fS3empZsFpysqv-F3NvgCZLNFRr7RHl8_0V5CstMKfsjN8ZlCs2c4ApInRs5QwOlgYg09dON4itwlGUdUW0opcClyYBUIMafDfR/s1600/Burj+Khalifa+2015+NY+2+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burj Khalifa New Year Eve 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywxgGkMwz7E_8gMTO-awlF1PEXkALp2tyH9SFXKL96U7jxx2Lx-gIM5pkrLmgqNB35mELU7AQwdx6zbXm6FY3jqNUOJYXGjL1BpLbjHGtjEKR-iGLzM5pU9K4MciS4I7b6KwxCGazODM1/s1600/Burj+Khalifa+2015+NY+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywxgGkMwz7E_8gMTO-awlF1PEXkALp2tyH9SFXKL96U7jxx2Lx-gIM5pkrLmgqNB35mELU7AQwdx6zbXm6FY3jqNUOJYXGjL1BpLbjHGtjEKR-iGLzM5pU9K4MciS4I7b6KwxCGazODM1/s1600/Burj+Khalifa+2015+NY+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burj Khalifa New Year Eve 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaRboQPqzXXIaf9NNF3MCK8KsezL7vAh7ETzc-xdCmxfvI3jzd2gTy91tJpzK6HoxCEzkmyDB20wLGvtl6P2O54Izgc1nFLv18Ksipm3TpdRS9hEYsB1PfVnD5zRyKp17FZwM51wx3kVUC/s1600/Burk+Khalifa+2015+NYE+3+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaRboQPqzXXIaf9NNF3MCK8KsezL7vAh7ETzc-xdCmxfvI3jzd2gTy91tJpzK6HoxCEzkmyDB20wLGvtl6P2O54Izgc1nFLv18Ksipm3TpdRS9hEYsB1PfVnD5zRyKp17FZwM51wx3kVUC/s1600/Burk+Khalifa+2015+NYE+3+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burj Khalifa New Year Eve 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-44850876300295480912014-12-19T01:50:00.001-08:002014-12-21T00:44:30.727-08:00Why No Blogging? Perhaps it's the Homeroom Mom Gig?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipw892pSs1DDsy2g2OMi647FAUHvMqDvx65FHo3d67yd_vclU44aW7-Qk445-D2Ai_vcKg5PomLugXSMuQtVVOBxvCkDGrms49Ryji_tHXvsQDzYU2_5pm7WrCgOJquytl5bTJCDWB_yHM/s1600/2014-12-18+20.46.25-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipw892pSs1DDsy2g2OMi647FAUHvMqDvx65FHo3d67yd_vclU44aW7-Qk445-D2Ai_vcKg5PomLugXSMuQtVVOBxvCkDGrms49Ryji_tHXvsQDzYU2_5pm7WrCgOJquytl5bTJCDWB_yHM/s1600/2014-12-18+20.46.25-2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I copied this idea from Pinterest. Its supposed to be a reindeer, but<br />
kind of looks like a muppet?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have not blogged anything here, or at my photography site since completing it in October. That is a long time for all the randomness that floats around in my head. I'm surprised I didn't burst in some kind of rage.. Or maybe I did.<br />
<br />
For everyone, this time of year is really busy. Work is busy, the holidays are busy, trying to advocate for diabetes is busy, being a mom is busy, taking your kid to school is busy, keeping your diabetic cat from attacking your pumpkin cheesecake is busy.. and then some. <br />
<br />
One other thing that has kept me busy was the gracious "nomination" to be my son's homeroom mom this year. Nomination may not be the right word, but about one month into school I received a phone call one day. "So you've volunteered to be the homeroom mom." Me - "No, I did not volunteer".<br />
<br />
For those not familiar with the Home Room Mom, or Class Mom concept, it is basically someone that helps the teacher out with activities and recruits parent volunteers and such. I have no idea how this tradition got started, and I am baffled it exists here because all teachers have full time assistants. I appreciate everything they do, and it is not like they are not busy. I just wonder when the need for a third person to do all this extra fancy stuff became necessary.<br />
<br />
Something tells me the internet could have helped it along. Forums and such for moms to share their super mom abilities could feed this phenomenon. And now we have Pinterest with all those amazing ideas that people add to their boards but have no time for.<br />
<br />
The woman on the phone was the pack leader of the homeroom moms and went into this long detailed explanation of what the job required and how rewarding it is. Yes, rewarding it is. I was one of three last year and this worked out great. However, I was not planning to single handedly take on this task with a full time job and everything else on my plate. I am very involved in my son's life and activities, and I am not sure I am the right profile to do this for a whole class.<br />
<br />
Every year a form goes out asking for volunteers. I politely completed it telling the teacher I could not fulfill this position, but I am happy to help when I can. What resulted was basically a call for volunteers to step forward and everyone took one step back but me.<br />
<br />
Somehow my message was misconstrued. In the same way people thought Milli Vanilli could sing their own songs back in the 1980s, someone thought I was crafty and available.<br />
<br />
While I enjoy doing things for my son and being involved in his life while he still thinks it is cool, I would be lying if I said I did not wonder why more moms who do not work do not volunteer for this position.<br />
<br />
When I made a list of supplies needed for a request for a snowman pancake party and distributed it, the amount of volunteers for plastic cutlery was astounding. These other moms are very nice, and really I get that we are all busy. However, 80% of the moms volunteered for plastic cutlery. I don't mind, but then this left me with the trouble of trying to lobby for the other "cool" items on the list that were not chosen. Do I just assign the fruit salad? Ask? Beg?<br />
<br />
The other moms are incredibly "impressed with the amount of bags" I bring to a class function. And shocked when they learn I work too, and I did not buy the pancakes. One mom even feared me because she forgot the strawberries for the snowman's nose! While I paused internally, its nothing that can't be resolved with an extra blueberry and a smile, or raspberries that the teacher felt compelled to bring because she happened to have them!<br />
<br />
Thanks to the internet and Pinterest I delivered AND found a craft. I could never dream up these crazy things on my own, but copy one? You bet! I was not the kid that cheated in school, but in adulthood, cheating on a craft for school. No ethical dilemma there.<br />
<br />
So happy busy holidays to you all. We are having a few friends over tonight. Seems I told a friend the gathering was last night. I must now make sure that was not the case for everyone and someone shows up tonight to eat all this food!<br />
<br />
Amazing I remembered the pancakes!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Q1D2RBnzp5KyvoN_mQ3rXeESsNiZLSOYaKpazOw-Bxe1W2Fko8oDfonebYm9Vpl1jCnKLMECfe1zCdwla_BJQz0wVmLKdLwJuK1kwCPMfgVjn8GA52avuDwSI-IPLUDr44_9FSAp8Z58/s1600/2014-12-18+08.32.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Q1D2RBnzp5KyvoN_mQ3rXeESsNiZLSOYaKpazOw-Bxe1W2Fko8oDfonebYm9Vpl1jCnKLMECfe1zCdwla_BJQz0wVmLKdLwJuK1kwCPMfgVjn8GA52avuDwSI-IPLUDr44_9FSAp8Z58/s1600/2014-12-18+08.32.11.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the masterpiece pancake snowman</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-12439286108541109552014-10-23T21:21:00.000-07:002014-10-23T21:21:35.266-07:00I did it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2I2ForcMfdlpWyEj25BHdgboGJQjd1cZvZ9RhgjZedi7jtEHyTmNvCyl87DEM_6ZkMrHdWrWClONqAmkfBpUoCQ7fy4sXuUGu_mq-28d4RsiQjpy_elzO5iEYuvRXVHo3mcIzJL9xqNkN/s1600/Photo+Site+Cover.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
I have not posted for three weeks. With much going on, and much to say, I have also been working on launching my photography website. While I love sharing it here, I thought it would be nice to get more of those images off my hard drive and document them in a website.<br />
<br />
For now, I will continue to keep my writing about Life here. Or, possibly post it in both places for a while as I will blog there as well.<br />
<br />
I have been pouring my thoughts out here since 2008! It is not something I am not ready to drop just yet. And, writing my rebuttal to all that media discussion in Dubai about how people with nannies or hired help are just lazy is really cooking in my head.<br />
<br />
If you have a few minutes to click over to <a href="http://www.pameladurantphotography.com/" target="_blank">Pamela Durant Photography</a>, I would be very pleased to hear your feedback.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-42622781115278463402014-10-02T08:09:00.000-07:002014-10-02T08:17:51.711-07:00Safa Park<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2rIW_LPUf_RBzz0N3p0nV_yrLj0q5FbvserttPOkrSrhsnS5_PdQBvi5Ys7pnHeKB9SDAy_fWRO_Ct5YpczQrQQwjcFfir5B4XH87GXLaVBJiU59CzGSFnrN3N5oARnp-kOwP-9d4P6Q/s1600/Under+my+favorite+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2rIW_LPUf_RBzz0N3p0nV_yrLj0q5FbvserttPOkrSrhsnS5_PdQBvi5Ys7pnHeKB9SDAy_fWRO_Ct5YpczQrQQwjcFfir5B4XH87GXLaVBJiU59CzGSFnrN3N5oARnp-kOwP-9d4P6Q/s1600/Under+my+favorite+tree.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safa Park April 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My heart broke a bit today. There is a large canal project that started in Dubai last year that will run right through the city. There was a lot of discussion when it was presented to the public because the fate of the city's beloved Safa Park was at question. <br />
<br />
I read several articles in the local papers, and I seem to recall reading on more than one occasion that the park would remain as is, and the water was going to run next to it. As of today, I am not so sure.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Z04YS-wL6QiYGPopdZ02zZfIW1l6RGJBoqeEePJzvRXz1J8CUW9axa0_cnkK2-9ZGY6CbhyphenhyphenX-zh-0hapiZKFf_GYjjQNWNfjWHcGmRTZKt8KwHE52IBRTsuAYBgSTRZpmtjrwHt16Sj8/s1600/Safa+Park+School+Trip+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Z04YS-wL6QiYGPopdZ02zZfIW1l6RGJBoqeEePJzvRXz1J8CUW9axa0_cnkK2-9ZGY6CbhyphenhyphenX-zh-0hapiZKFf_GYjjQNWNfjWHcGmRTZKt8KwHE52IBRTsuAYBgSTRZpmtjrwHt16Sj8/s1600/Safa+Park+School+Trip+2014.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foggy Morning Safa Park Field Trip</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Every morning as I take my six year old son to school or drive to work I pass the park and witness the progress. The trees in the parking lot on the Sheikh Zayed Road side where cleared to make way for new roads. This did not surprise me as I expected the parking lot to go. <br />
<br />
Fast forward to today as I drove along the side of the park and there I saw the demolition happening inside the park. How can this be? I was speechless. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvB__qtbxFEe8HWNDhdB3gaU3OVdWuG-8NLBS_BBNoD5WD8kJcLlE-Luvoi06cqqMtwobFABOX_n5q0PvmG5yk3gTTC2IKwZ1r06rpaZE_GpHLN2d_gdoBcaXiezxJ5RY-xE5jMEZ1vT7/s1600/2014-03-01+11.55.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvB__qtbxFEe8HWNDhdB3gaU3OVdWuG-8NLBS_BBNoD5WD8kJcLlE-Luvoi06cqqMtwobFABOX_n5q0PvmG5yk3gTTC2IKwZ1r06rpaZE_GpHLN2d_gdoBcaXiezxJ5RY-xE5jMEZ1vT7/s1600/2014-03-01+11.55.11.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite tree in Safa Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
My son was with me and equally shocked. He started to talk about how sad many of the trees looked, and began to label them. "Happy, sad, happy, sad, sad, happy..." The number of sad trees quickly outnumbered the happy ones. He then realized the fate of the trees along the perimeter and several meters into the park. These will all be cut down.<br />
<br />
I am not a typical tree hugger, but my heart aches a bit to write that sentence. <br />
<br />
Safa park was a gathering place for many. It was representative of Dubai with all the many walks of life and cultures enjoying the largest, urban green space in Dubai. It has been around since at least the 1970s, maybe longer. For a country that is only 42 years old, it is an important landmark.<br />
<br />
Citizens and residents would go there to meet, enjoy time off with their family, play sports, do yoga, enjoy the new cafe that opened, visit the market, read a book, take a school trip, and more. Just a quick Google search for Safa Park and its significance is quickly understood.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKcfTgQLKLhTbytU8v1kxAh-w3V86pMByrqKOKq4W0Gv0u-nqgL9jhOGo04Lh2q2qljdCTu7FQFN1wTU66EeqA4Z8TTCSWFcw4dw2ahb5apQ_9l4koPWfNfoKKaWuyT55ltEUOX1_c_lt/s1600/Safa+Park+Burj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKcfTgQLKLhTbytU8v1kxAh-w3V86pMByrqKOKq4W0Gv0u-nqgL9jhOGo04Lh2q2qljdCTu7FQFN1wTU66EeqA4Z8TTCSWFcw4dw2ahb5apQ_9l4koPWfNfoKKaWuyT55ltEUOX1_c_lt/s1600/Safa+Park+Burj.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burj Khalifa Overlooking Safa Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We had my son's birthday party there earlier this year. He liked it so much he was considering it again for next year.<br />
<br />
I see the other areas that Dubai has developed and they are beautiful once finished. They landscape and care for them well, and there have been many new parks that have come up in the last several years I have lived here.<br />
<br />
I appreciate them all, but Safa Park has this unexplainable soul. As soon as you enter the park gates, there is an energetic calm given off from all the nature there. Perhaps this is why so many of those trees look sad long before the construction has reached them. The impact of demolishing one side is felt by the other. It is very interesting how nature is in synch this way.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7jgg0vf6hZYSwYkVlY5vPJko0Ow7L0FFZPsuPO5dgc00NI7O0SAhKAoZbQKRQA0OGJBfoYDZVZ_q2ODzHkuaCbO4HqGMvC6hr23A_JTqZMxh9hLBocveOnH3i5J9CXSvYZDr8x3XJgUG/s1600/Watchin+S&E+in+Safa+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7jgg0vf6hZYSwYkVlY5vPJko0Ow7L0FFZPsuPO5dgc00NI7O0SAhKAoZbQKRQA0OGJBfoYDZVZ_q2ODzHkuaCbO4HqGMvC6hr23A_JTqZMxh9hLBocveOnH3i5J9CXSvYZDr8x3XJgUG/s1600/Watchin+S&E+in+Safa+Park.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching my son & husband in Safa Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Many of the pictures I have seen of the development look nice. Some look green, which is good, but in the meantime it is heart breaking to watch. As the cooler months set in, and the seasonal birds migrate through they will find their beloved park in a different state. <br />
<br />
I feel a little helpless and at a loss for words as I write about this. I am a resident of Dubai and maybe it is not my place to share this opinion. Perhaps, but I love that park, its nature and what it represents for Dubai.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So often, I really wish the way forward did not come with a price of something that seemed so perfect in the first place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1oVQfs4JMpz8F-l9qLDz6p4M7aCu44LKbqt4WRgYPSIRGpCXCjemgDAG7_BEmu8cTU_9DtR41quhbMaVHIrorzYKEYka1M7_AsypwvPAdtUUFnEikZiE4eRuERmkX39D1Xc90cbnpkP_/s1600/Safa+Park+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1oVQfs4JMpz8F-l9qLDz6p4M7aCu44LKbqt4WRgYPSIRGpCXCjemgDAG7_BEmu8cTU_9DtR41quhbMaVHIrorzYKEYka1M7_AsypwvPAdtUUFnEikZiE4eRuERmkX39D1Xc90cbnpkP_/s1600/Safa+Park+Tree.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-FQitzDD-xoA%2FVC1g-PdA6XI%2FAAAAAAAAHZ4%2F5xn9V7PcgYs%2Fs1600%2FSafa%252BPark%252BBurj.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKcfTgQLKLhTbytU8v1kxAh-w3V86pMByrqKOKq4W0Gv0u-nqgL9jhOGo04Lh2q2qljdCTu7FQFN1wTU66EeqA4Z8TTCSWFcw4dw2ahb5apQ_9l4koPWfNfoKKaWuyT55ltEUOX1_c_lt/s1600/Safa+Park+Burj.jpg" -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-82615510600997885642014-09-16T09:08:00.002-07:002014-10-03T22:43:07.166-07:00Dressing to Drop Off the Kids<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dxb3.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Parents-visitors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://dxb3.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Parents-visitors.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture from the 7Days article discussing<br />
the school drop off dress code</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After I dropped my son off at school today, I had a laugh out loud moment as I listened to the local news on the radio. A school in Dubai posted a sign addressing what the moms are wearing during school runs.<br />
<br />
A colleague and I often joke about this as there are some really attractive moms here. There are moms from all over the world living in Dubai, and they dress in many different ways. And yes, there are a few that I have even done a double take on as I venture off to work in my "corporate uniform". Sometimes its a wow, she looks great. Other times its a wow, I can't believe she wore that!<br />
<br />
I totally agree with dressing for the occasion, and while the school run is not what I consider an occasion, I do respect that I live in a place that is not always so casual in it's dress code. <br />
<br />
Despite the tolerance here, and probably well over 90% of the families are from elsewhere at my son's school, there are times I have made a conscious choice to modify something. However, I think I own some dresses in the figure above. I am sure I have a sundress like the one on the left of the picture. The others just really aren't my style. Although the second one could be going to the gym, and that could be me and many other moms on certain mornings.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, I have no Captain America t-shrits that show my stomach. Phew.<br />
<br />
I do have skirts and wear a lot of them. Some above the knee, and a few below the knee. When I wear the ones below the knee, people keep looking at my stomach to see if I am pregnant! No one looks at anything when it is a short skirt.<br />
<br />
I am not any of the three with straps. My shoulders never offend because I am always so cold from the massive amounts of climate control here. I would not be able to tolerate wearing those without a sweater or shawl.<br />
<br />
But in all seriousness, as I've mentioned in other posts about the dress code question before, I get it. But why is this particular discussion always about women? There is no dress code mentioned for men.<br />
<br />
I have seen some dads at drop off that made me think wow, I can't believe he wore that. Most are heading to work in their standard pants, shirt and ties. Some in shorts, and that is okay too. But there have been a few that look like they just rolled out of bed. I have nothing against rolling out of bed. I mean, haven't we all just done pretty much exactly that to rush to get our kids to school on time? However, I think we should roll out and get dressed before we leave the house.<br />
<br />
My first request would be can we please ask the dads not to drop their kids off in boxer shorts? Or shorts that look like boxer shorts? It is just inappropriate and way more offensive than a sundress.<br />
<br />
Here is the <a href="http://7daysindubai.com/dubai-mums-warned-cover-dropping-kids-school/" target="_blank">7 Days article</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-23657420943859260352014-09-11T10:46:00.000-07:002014-10-03T22:44:34.778-07:00Confessions of a Mom Whose Kid is "Too Busy"<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Two weeks
into the new school year and I am late to schedule any after school activities
for my first grader. I know what we are considering, but waiting for his
school that is slow to schedule their after school activities may be causing us
to loose places elsewhere. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">One of
the many beauties of Dubai - you can find a class for anything and everything
here, and a lot of it is really good quality. I want my son to be exposed
to, and try different things, but how much is really too much?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Every
year I see one or two local newspaper articles about over scheduling one's
child. They must have enough downtime to be bored. They must feel
bored. I used to read those articles and think, ya, awful parents.
How dare they over schedule their child? Apparently some mild form
of modern abuse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">After
some internet search, I see there are even books written on the subject. By
definition, I now fall into a certain category of parent. But really, I
am NOT that parent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">In the
NYTimes last year there was an about this very subject. It
was written by a parent of two busy children titled <i>Overscheduled Children -
How Big a Problem?</i> Bruce Fieler and his wife both work, and their
kids participate in a fair amount of after school activities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I can
totally relate to everything he said in that article since both my husband and
I work very full time jobs. And even if I didn't work, would it matter?
I would probably not enroll my child in any fewer activities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The
"experts" say that children need time to be free and be bored.
I totally agree, and we experience this. However, I also agree with
the NYT article. Boredom leads into the "Can I have the iPad?"
request. No. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">My son is
very happy to draw, play legos and do other things, but iPad is The Bomb in
their world. And once they learn more about apps, download, etc, they
want more. Who doesn't? Look at all the adult Candy Crush addicts
out there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Last year
he still had plenty of free time to play, and many of his friends were in the same
activities. Like Fieler, I also feel these activities are helping him grow and
learn about different things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">What they
are not is me coddling him or competing with other parents or kids - the main
criticism in the books cited. Be sure, I could care less about what the
next kid does or what other kids' parents think. I'll let someone accuse
me of being too interested in my son, but caring about others to the point it
is a competition? ...No. </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">For us,
it is about trying, or doing your best. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Once when my son was three, he told me
he "can't" do something. All of my hair stood up on end. I
basically explained to him that this is not a word we use. I'm not sure
if he got it at that time, and in all fairness to him he was just being a whiny
three year old that day, as you do. But "can't"? It is a
4-letter word. We "try".</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I
emphasized the word so much that when he was frustrated putting together the
cute little car track he had, from that day on, those tracks were fondly known
as "tries".<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I don't
want to sound like one of those people that walked up hill both ways to school
in the snow, but... When I was young, I played in the forests of rural Ohio.
(Okay, maybe I wasn't in the forrest that deep, but it felt like it).
My friends and I played outside all day, and our parents didn't worry
about us being abducted. I do not really worry about this in Dubai, but I am aware that we live in a much different time. We also do not have forests here either. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">When we
later moved to Texas, I recall being outdoors with my friends at the playground
a lot. We have a playground here, but its not the same. This is a
big city, and we can't easily rally the neighborhood for a game of anything, or
playground experimentation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">My
favorite quote from the article, “As a general principle, there is a line
between a highly enriched, interesting, growth-promoting childhood and an over
scheduled childhood,” he said. “And nobody knows where that line is.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">So if no
one knows where this line is, why are we trying to define it? Experts
always want to put kids or parent behaviors, in some kind of box. Maybe
this doesn't fit in a black or white box. Exploring and learning can
be grey. It should actually not walk a straight line, but maybe zig zag a bit?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I do not
have all the answers, but to all those other parents that are
genuinely trying to do right by their child and keep them busy,
learning, healthy and happy without being overly competitive - carry on.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;">For the NYTimes article referenced above, please click <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/13/fashion/over-scheduled-children-how-big-a-problem.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-82801694548922779472014-08-30T01:21:00.000-07:002014-08-30T01:24:45.347-07:00... and there was Palio<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmr_S6DJy9FA8X2cME1nKL6rb7aLYlIOY5F0Zqkly_vyJle8w6w1g-vH0fnsM_g_8M1JCogpFXjor5S-eModnoRR19aTvhw4VELvQwO5bcI4iKF6jpsHRyqGveO1Cmsxnz_X9BlKn-lcQ/s1600/Paleo_5rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmr_S6DJy9FA8X2cME1nKL6rb7aLYlIOY5F0Zqkly_vyJle8w6w1g-vH0fnsM_g_8M1JCogpFXjor5S-eModnoRR19aTvhw4VELvQwO5bcI4iKF6jpsHRyqGveO1Cmsxnz_X9BlKn-lcQ/s1600/Paleo_5rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palio di Siena, Italy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
We happened to be lucky enough to catch Palio di Siena this summer. Palio is held twice a year, in July and August. After seeing Piazza del Campo several years ago, I tried very hard to imagine how that worked in what seemed like a small space for a horse race on somewhat banked cobblestone street.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I learned that they lay thick, hard dirt over the brick around the square so the horses can race. This doesn't always keep the horses from slipping, but more humans fall than horses. I read this is quite common as it is a bareback race. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEK00q3TS7IW_vq8megO13OhX6nB1k19aooEJgV6QDyzrSIdeTWH3KbYh6ed2n8TOd4sD15-nfJozXZdtriVwIc2Gnqi7zRAlNrMrtn8sJs0GygNd8dID9aboRYMHg_Ekb5_VWgpZSrGpF/s1600/Paleo+2+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEK00q3TS7IW_vq8megO13OhX6nB1k19aooEJgV6QDyzrSIdeTWH3KbYh6ed2n8TOd4sD15-nfJozXZdtriVwIc2Gnqi7zRAlNrMrtn8sJs0GygNd8dID9aboRYMHg_Ekb5_VWgpZSrGpF/s1600/Paleo+2+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piazza del Campo filling up with spectators to watch Il Palio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
According to information on Wikipedia, the event dates back to the 14th Century. The races replaced bullfighting, and the first races were on buffalos and then donkeys. It was not until 1656 that the "modern" Palio was established.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We caught a practice run two days before the big race day. The crowds still come out for it, so you can experience the real thing even if you are not there for the finale.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We went back to Siena the day of the final to meet some friends. While we did not watch the event, we did see the <i>Contrade</i>, or districts, parade their horses through the streets in full traditional dress. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW55dNIS75n0gayr4BHxIJo0EgAqUcID4gruZLkAEGOZ6N2O-dPU6XXPat2ZqXU6OyBlmBvf30CmP3fVeWbiST4pqd2izBG8LDDTUiRnCQHk1U6PWqDUPs3U1Lvaro3g0OnUTPAYzemMr1/s1600/Paleo+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW55dNIS75n0gayr4BHxIJo0EgAqUcID4gruZLkAEGOZ6N2O-dPU6XXPat2ZqXU6OyBlmBvf30CmP3fVeWbiST4pqd2izBG8LDDTUiRnCQHk1U6PWqDUPs3U1Lvaro3g0OnUTPAYzemMr1/s1600/Paleo+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A horse entering Piazza del Campo for Palio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tickets to watch the event on shop balconies are sold for a premium price. We stood in the square, which was free. While we did not have a bird's eye view of the race, we were still able to enjoy the event. If we needed to use any facilities, the side street bar where we had drinks before had no issues with us going back there.</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Hjd-m_hZDdPxoRnJKbFIqkDJN2dvH-TcUiPxBhZMUCl3kYKvqdnN4G432d79E8s2Ebhb4Vcm0p3A8Bl2fvemcMhRcCknQiMCbNBatKimtu7Exev9tKpxTCIDoq-Iw061HpIt8Jph_z3A/s1600/Paleo_4rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Hjd-m_hZDdPxoRnJKbFIqkDJN2dvH-TcUiPxBhZMUCl3kYKvqdnN4G432d79E8s2Ebhb4Vcm0p3A8Bl2fvemcMhRcCknQiMCbNBatKimtu7Exev9tKpxTCIDoq-Iw061HpIt8Jph_z3A/s1600/Paleo_4rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The streets of the piazza are cleaned before Il Palio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSY5oLiM8m_MtWO5m5SUhNHIYmjeJbxQ62BJdf1wM8ajb-xb27qkBFWtPcoL_8jMvXlL0-J52EqxPddjWMSILSdDvZ1pc96ZV_m4luGZGctSKA6Pngmaqfsk1I_0FUWrp6LbIhwXj5jaDV/s1600/Paleo_6rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSY5oLiM8m_MtWO5m5SUhNHIYmjeJbxQ62BJdf1wM8ajb-xb27qkBFWtPcoL_8jMvXlL0-J52EqxPddjWMSILSdDvZ1pc96ZV_m4luGZGctSKA6Pngmaqfsk1I_0FUWrp6LbIhwXj5jaDV/s1600/Paleo_6rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palio requires a lot of waiting for a short race, but it is worth the wait.<br />
Blink and you might miss the horse running by!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-13455878629576663322014-08-23T02:58:00.000-07:002014-09-16T23:13:41.159-07:00Never Underestimate the Hashtag #Back in Dubai. Summer is almost over. - Almost sounds like a Haiku.<br />
<br />
This month I made the very long trip to the US for a few days. As it was just my son and I, with some encouragement from my husband, we decided to fly from Dallas to Houston. <br />
<br />
My son had been asking me what it was like to fly on a "US plane". Without being blunt and informing him the service is not typically as good as Emirates, he got to experience a lot of challenges first hand.<br />
<br />
There was a lot of confusion about gates and things prior to take off. The "go to gate A2", only to be told "go back to A1" that told you to go to A2 is par for the course. I know if this were to happen in other countries, the manner in which it is done would be more polite.<br />
<br />
I flinch a bit when the employee working to check people in at the gate gets assertive because I am standing in line patiently. I realized this is a norm. Airline employees do not realize they are doing it, but the needed service tone of "may I help you" comes out more like "why are you standing there?" I received a very stern "Can you PLEASE move over here so I can check you in?!"<br />
<br />
We arrive to Houston fine. Unfortunately, our luggage does not. Sadly, it seems to happen to me almost every time I fly in the US. My luggage never arrives with me. But this one - a 45 minute direct flight?<br />
<br />
I go to report the luggage. They write it up, and I can check back after 24 hours. That's a long time for only a 45 minute flight away. I figured they would recover it, but I am impatient. And while I am always prepared for luggage loss, the rest of my son's diabetic medical supplies were in those bags. I had much more to loose than clean clothes if they were not recovered.<br />
<br />
It bugged me. So, before I went to sleep I decided to take it to Twitter. I hashtagged lostluggage as well as the name of the air carrier. <br />
<br />
As our metabolism is not completely adjusted, I wake up in the early hours of the morning to check my son's blood sugar when we travel. When I looked at my phone to set my alarm for the next check, I saw I had a response on Twitter. Wow - only about 2 hours after my tweet! That was impressive.<br />
<br />
After the exchange of a few public tweets, the airline suggested we take it offline and they sent me a few numbers and other websites to contact throughout the ordeal. This was very helpful in locating the luggage, and much more pleasant than speaking to a computer.<br />
<br />
My luggage arrived the next day. Pleased to have it, I was disappointed it was damaged and incredibly dirty. I have never seen that much dirt on a luggage. Ever. Nor has my luggage been damaged in other places I have travelled to.<br />
<br />
I am still working out the damage bit, and the airline sent me some alternative sites via Twitter messaging that I would not be able to find easily myself.<br />
<br />
The moral of the story is, if you have a customer service need that is not being met, or needs some facilitation, do not under estimate the power of the hashtag. Those companies that are smart will address your need quickly. It doesn't take a harsh tweet. Just put something out there to get the issue moving.<br />
<br />
Happy, safe travels to all.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-39386109606420194002014-07-29T14:30:00.001-07:002014-07-29T14:30:43.675-07:00Thoughts on Immigrants, Guest Workers & RefugeesIt has been a few weeks since I watched the World Cup final between Argentina and Germany at some ridiculous o'clock hour at a random smokey bar with some coworkers in Dubai. While I was hoping for an Argentina win, Germany played a very good game. I also had the privilege to watch them clean up Brazil on their journey while surrounded by Germans.<br />
<br />
Better than the game they played was one of the stories that came out after the event was over. Mesut Ozil, one of the players on the German team made a donation to pay for the surgery of some needy children in Brazil. Before the event started, he payed for the surgery of 11 children. After Germany won, ESPN reported that he increased the number to 23. The previous 11 represented the number of players, but 23 was the number of the entire team.<br />
<br />
Mesut Ozil is not a very German name. It is obviously Turkish. Previous articles I read said he is a second generation Turk who was born in Germany. While he may be a rare case of extreme financial and athletic success in any class, his family at one time were migrant workers. In a time where one of the consistent headlines in many countries is how to close the border to keep foreigners out, I wonder what would have happened if Germany kept out Ozil's grandparents. <br />
<br />
Reading this story, I can't help but wonder who will be the next Mesut Ozil. Will he or she play football, get a university degree under extreme circumstances, find a cure for cancer, foster world peace....<br />
<br />
Just maybe some of our much needed resolutions will come from the offspring of a refugee that has fled a war torn country, or from someone that has moved somewhere else for a better life. There was a time when a list of the most famous refugees circulated the internet and there you saw Madeline Albright, Albert Einstein and others on the list.<br />
<br />
Twenty-three. It might be a small number, but for those children and their families, it's a huge deal. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-74432843002393124792014-07-28T12:50:00.000-07:002014-07-28T13:33:36.454-07:00Learning to Ride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivefrFdERe0asFi8h-j3BOXNoksGE2rj9bnAOt9i3Z1WdLresb3uF-wtv1ns5539kxxESs6pdrCKk_LevJDu8KVtqG1z3vDynl-kIu8PnjG3bDlkTBNyWNpOXkZ6sPxOUizIon3Hj0gkou/s1600/Erin+bike+ride+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivefrFdERe0asFi8h-j3BOXNoksGE2rj9bnAOt9i3Z1WdLresb3uF-wtv1ns5539kxxESs6pdrCKk_LevJDu8KVtqG1z3vDynl-kIu8PnjG3bDlkTBNyWNpOXkZ6sPxOUizIon3Hj0gkou/s1600/Erin+bike+ride+rs.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My son rode a bike for the first time without the training wheels yesterday. Knowing him well, I asked my mother-in-law to have her neighbor remove the extra wheels before we arrived to her summer home in the rural Marmara region of Turkey. <br />
<br />
I am not one of those pushy parents that drives their kids to do things before they are ready - actually quite the opposite as I feel kids are under so much pressure to achieve at such a young age in the modern world. However, I have realized that as a parent, sometimes we need to insist to encourage them to realize their potential as they grow. Or this is just a big assumption on my part that will result in an epic fail.<br />
<br />
Living in Dubai our children have access to many great things, but sometimes the simple things like riding a bicycle through the neighborhood is not so convenient. There are a few cookie-cutter neighborhoods where it is possible, and there is an amazing bicycle track but you have to drive to get there. It is not always easy to just go outside and hop on your bike. This is the make up of the city and the weather is not always great in the summer months.<br />
<br />
The first day without the wheels, he refused. He wanted the bicycle the 4-year old across the street was using. Unknown to him, she has the training wheels from his bike. The second day he was still not pleased with the situation. The third day, with a little help to start, he was riding almost immediately.<br />
<br />
I am forever amazed at the stories I read about diabetic children. They take many needles every day - pricks to check blood sugar, long needles to insert catheters if they use an insulin pump, or several injections every day if they don't pump. Not to mention the blood draws from veins for regular check ups that are so hard to find on small children. - All much more difficult than riding a bike for sure.<br />
<br />
I have learned a lot as a parent, and maybe even a bit more as the parent of a diabetic child. This week's lesson learned: You are always stronger than you think. Most likely, your fear to try something new is a small drop in the bucket compared what you've already accomplished or endured. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-80134448290950357902014-07-19T23:19:00.000-07:002014-07-19T23:22:36.390-07:00Sassi Bianchi, Italy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5Qm12_MZFYO6SjDB2Wz08dG_EqSmGKOJTeKNi4v6RZfP-jeFgm6R1ftm3_0mwanMpEilKIsvdsFmMp5kOF0Et4D5CkwOlCjOq0fhb5zCDzYpy8D_-vhKvzveGQdTvQFVT4ObsA7MwEEx/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi+1+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5Qm12_MZFYO6SjDB2Wz08dG_EqSmGKOJTeKNi4v6RZfP-jeFgm6R1ftm3_0mwanMpEilKIsvdsFmMp5kOF0Et4D5CkwOlCjOq0fhb5zCDzYpy8D_-vhKvzveGQdTvQFVT4ObsA7MwEEx/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi+1+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sassi Bianchi's vineyard overlooking the lavender field</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For the last few years, we've been talking about going to Tuscany with friends. We decided enough talking, and this year we went. We stayed at Sassi Bianchi, a 40-hectar farm hidden in the hills of Tuscany. Owned and managed by Concetta and Palo, the 16th century farm houses are in great condition, and you can feel all their efforts to keep the place quaint and functional. On most mornings you can see Palo working on the farm somewhere.<br />
<br />
Sassi Bianchi is beautiful and full of life. I loved the over dose of oxygen and exploring the property with the smell of lavender in the air. Our large, communal family breakfasts were a great start to the day, and we enjoyed closing the day at the same large table after visiting the nearby towns and villages as the kids played outside catching fireflies.<br />
<br />
Sassi Bianchi is one of those places that I definitely hope to return to - frequently!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1Wpg2YAbDcB28EaZje7MOTAKXNj7Vy5QqPLmPuHsvJSRLFM2SEwKuvtcPv-t8tEcPh4TMzOZlkLv_cJkEPTmleK54bRPuNtyuXiwH455erAS3VUDmDKsTHREaWeUsoQb8pMVEuAVrwjQ/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_1+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1Wpg2YAbDcB28EaZje7MOTAKXNj7Vy5QqPLmPuHsvJSRLFM2SEwKuvtcPv-t8tEcPh4TMzOZlkLv_cJkEPTmleK54bRPuNtyuXiwH455erAS3VUDmDKsTHREaWeUsoQb8pMVEuAVrwjQ/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_1+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many meals, bottles of wine and laughter were shared here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimag1aHCY58v4rAjl3uosnaY75JCUOyOLPOndMxRlCFHdhrqD9WLcY7-bwBVaAg4hP5bGtTfCgUghCov6V_yqUfZ7ouVtihc4_gBCBQVRze6JMiwCI8hIJEPphTDiJmvriTo41MOMnpB01/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_2+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimag1aHCY58v4rAjl3uosnaY75JCUOyOLPOndMxRlCFHdhrqD9WLcY7-bwBVaAg4hP5bGtTfCgUghCov6V_yqUfZ7ouVtihc4_gBCBQVRze6JMiwCI8hIJEPphTDiJmvriTo41MOMnpB01/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_2+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the Sassi Bianchi farm houses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBjhxZ9zGXh_clfshiM-N7A4r43v9oGY4hADjCDmGZvRalP7jjfRgKmFyBIqsPJ8N2lTwhow_onIPCPOnsOE6pqOOjnqHGwIVtVFukogb6uV9R3_8CLNxLZdRSjWk3MDt4PEWvKSgail9/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_7+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBjhxZ9zGXh_clfshiM-N7A4r43v9oGY4hADjCDmGZvRalP7jjfRgKmFyBIqsPJ8N2lTwhow_onIPCPOnsOE6pqOOjnqHGwIVtVFukogb6uV9R3_8CLNxLZdRSjWk3MDt4PEWvKSgail9/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_7+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lavender was beautiful and the number of butterflies and bees it attracted were amazing.<br />
They even make their own lavender honey.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWwQ7YOrJViZ10N34smS2C5IBHrrPMzdMg0NlDx_gNtqzxEG6l0TY0s8jxMD0hA5137u7_AE6v6QJdPXFl4pmg0xCrXOCXYy5mzaR5eJaIPTYZ4cdGVSYI8hXBAwkWRfjSsXdjWHtXMiq/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_3+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWwQ7YOrJViZ10N34smS2C5IBHrrPMzdMg0NlDx_gNtqzxEG6l0TY0s8jxMD0hA5137u7_AE6v6QJdPXFl4pmg0xCrXOCXYy5mzaR5eJaIPTYZ4cdGVSYI8hXBAwkWRfjSsXdjWHtXMiq/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_3+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The duck pond at Sassi Bianchi<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurKEAwb9mjKPTlHYmWM7w08hfg32PN7kCYyqWUc9l5waP_7ujtEsEctwgnDD-0S0eSg2mRr5YZ0eFvQaOL5zDKj2123t8ERjHrvFt3mQoO1m9RzwhPLrCfMDZz-iGyDVwMjlSKb0bMH38/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_4+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurKEAwb9mjKPTlHYmWM7w08hfg32PN7kCYyqWUc9l5waP_7ujtEsEctwgnDD-0S0eSg2mRr5YZ0eFvQaOL5zDKj2123t8ERjHrvFt3mQoO1m9RzwhPLrCfMDZz-iGyDVwMjlSKb0bMH38/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_4+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature and wildflowers everywhere! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LHFSyFN_UQeKJkNlOz5XLcrlTYe8P8AtMHdTpDabfkpOgUiT4Xtoo0t3toQxSEd8VJxMgXFDWi8ASCMi_gUO1-dpwHIZCRQ_hEFSpca-ZWDd19wtksuURlBpMGP4EQAfyhbReSTEL8_z/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_6+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LHFSyFN_UQeKJkNlOz5XLcrlTYe8P8AtMHdTpDabfkpOgUiT4Xtoo0t3toQxSEd8VJxMgXFDWi8ASCMi_gUO1-dpwHIZCRQ_hEFSpca-ZWDd19wtksuURlBpMGP4EQAfyhbReSTEL8_z/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_6+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic gardening means lots of lady bugs!<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUHNxLsG00IM65MOh0fy__eaZLIyTvug2-kliNJpBoYIjDuxbCQk5kTvcT-fHH39uny4gk8pzRAj6OlKqqDi9JoPVxVKULpouvfN7MwQT_Kh-eV50kPZor0VCfOo65Zh7S7dbLvfbulRi0/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_8+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUHNxLsG00IM65MOh0fy__eaZLIyTvug2-kliNJpBoYIjDuxbCQk5kTvcT-fHH39uny4gk8pzRAj6OlKqqDi9JoPVxVKULpouvfN7MwQT_Kh-eV50kPZor0VCfOo65Zh7S7dbLvfbulRi0/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_8+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A walk through the forest at Sassi Bianchi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoP_egdndjLP3Gz8m143EMd93EK46Eh183bGbNENihxo9my-I1XdsHyck_XvBsDDDb_6KpDG3GB9aiFsvCNJlJW33W-Wj8scTD-mRF3-_R1Qxbge4-LYeOfvv7VNHfZDpWr6hQNGrxV5c/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_9+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoP_egdndjLP3Gz8m143EMd93EK46Eh183bGbNENihxo9my-I1XdsHyck_XvBsDDDb_6KpDG3GB9aiFsvCNJlJW33W-Wj8scTD-mRF3-_R1Qxbge4-LYeOfvv7VNHfZDpWr6hQNGrxV5c/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_9+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And more lady bugs!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwYEW2P4R5xErUnpynzz-kNow5GF4ZFEo0L-zYFYMNzbReYP2qgG5o5py0s1pqlI0c40qN40Z17Ej3OubVZBEwqoN0FJYD2zZw9tJA8t4JnvzPA4fF7spIruci2EHF-gluqMATAao5yhX9/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_5+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwYEW2P4R5xErUnpynzz-kNow5GF4ZFEo0L-zYFYMNzbReYP2qgG5o5py0s1pqlI0c40qN40Z17Ej3OubVZBEwqoN0FJYD2zZw9tJA8t4JnvzPA4fF7spIruci2EHF-gluqMATAao5yhX9/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_5+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We look forward to going back to Sassi Bianchi soon!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-YWq21N6mM7U%2FU8rWV0GwQvI%2FAAAAAAAAHUo%2F4BDFpa8RJQI%2Fs1600%2FSassi%2BBianchi_5%2Brs.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwYEW2P4R5xErUnpynzz-kNow5GF4ZFEo0L-zYFYMNzbReYP2qgG5o5py0s1pqlI0c40qN40Z17Ej3OubVZBEwqoN0FJYD2zZw9tJA8t4JnvzPA4fF7spIruci2EHF-gluqMATAao5yhX9/s1600/Sassi+Bianchi_5+rs.jpg" -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-14374834481937665512014-06-23T12:42:00.001-07:002014-06-23T12:42:43.869-07:00Getting Published<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjlnhGGfEjmk0CFcUoDpJmqO8VM48tfCJgLQ0XUIeiTCmLSbAxgGm0MHDKNtZ2DxVRfdjAuOz31ITzByFyQjIIgqPMUGo55DgfH5KvFmdC-X8NU143_7Nzu1awWeB718NoscUJ8ZPUz3s/s1600/Zayed+Un+Book+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjlnhGGfEjmk0CFcUoDpJmqO8VM48tfCJgLQ0XUIeiTCmLSbAxgGm0MHDKNtZ2DxVRfdjAuOz31ITzByFyQjIIgqPMUGo55DgfH5KvFmdC-X8NU143_7Nzu1awWeB718NoscUJ8ZPUz3s/s1600/Zayed+Un+Book+1.jpg" height="76" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A few weeks ago I was pleasantly surprised to receive an email request from a friend who works at Zayed University. They were searching for stock photography with various themes for some iBooks, and were wondering if I had any they might use.<br />
<br />
This is cool for many reasons. One of those being that Zayed University was the first university in the world to cooperate with Apple to fully integrate iPads into their instruction. And of course, for me personally it is exciting.<br />
<br />
While I didn't always feel they were my technical best when I came across them over the years, I was still attached to these images because of the subject matter and how they made me feel. I guess the moral of the story is don't discard something if you don't think its within the constraints of what is considered "good".<br />
<br />
After all, art is all about feelings. Don't be quick to disregard your work as you never know when it might be applicable. Like my previous post, when I went back and looked at what I thought were just okay images, I saw something else that appealed to me later. <br />
<br />
Thank you again to my friend who reached out to me, and thank you to Zayed University for including my images.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Gxr8R_Ou6bnsDEdnG6lsjLWxT_7Feuaj5ubNZUVBL6tvlnPupvNmGS_P8vSd9T_yaXXtVwD-nbryJe1Hq_o9Y7yuWC6gMcoSOXKV1r30n4YhAXO3ghiqQiU3u12BRNMn8gsYyB-3UqX2/s1600/Zayed+Un+Book2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Gxr8R_Ou6bnsDEdnG6lsjLWxT_7Feuaj5ubNZUVBL6tvlnPupvNmGS_P8vSd9T_yaXXtVwD-nbryJe1Hq_o9Y7yuWC6gMcoSOXKV1r30n4YhAXO3ghiqQiU3u12BRNMn8gsYyB-3UqX2/s1600/Zayed+Un+Book2.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-678127522793732520.post-52632778773931005352014-06-07T13:29:00.007-07:002014-06-07T13:29:58.661-07:00The Little ThingsI was going through some old files looking for an image, and I came across these. I suddenly find myself very hungry and missing those little special things that make Turkey special! More often than not, it is the simple things that make a place special. It doesn't have to be grand. It can be a favorite dish, flower or enjoying a coffee during sunset with friends. Summer is almost here!<br />
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuB9MuAnY_9gykqXuNI-PcpNx12TdLZdraZSKjAW43xCX9LdcWTv4nroBJXiPFwUbCJWh1cfUBzaFTisxe7Y6NtBYTrJ0wcWCuG7bvFhsiZvIOuY30QdkyBRFXp_8QB-G5EFDmH72Oud2Z/s1600/Istanbul+Jasmine+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuB9MuAnY_9gykqXuNI-PcpNx12TdLZdraZSKjAW43xCX9LdcWTv4nroBJXiPFwUbCJWh1cfUBzaFTisxe7Y6NtBYTrJ0wcWCuG7bvFhsiZvIOuY30QdkyBRFXp_8QB-G5EFDmH72Oud2Z/s1600/Istanbul+Jasmine+rs.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love walking past the Four Seasons in Istanbul. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">It has some of the biggest, brightest Jasmine ever.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggtY6yowuJ622G36EYak-CitYA9HDy-SkGjW3PkzaywuJ9oVc8ijaNAnbqxUtzNHmR-fMyMWlk1jepiSFyT-4kCPTwqEEJQqrP9mQoyLc4N-ucMHXudgacCDMk_rJk9pViNFaY9jG7Dy-r/s1600/Borek+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggtY6yowuJ622G36EYak-CitYA9HDy-SkGjW3PkzaywuJ9oVc8ijaNAnbqxUtzNHmR-fMyMWlk1jepiSFyT-4kCPTwqEEJQqrP9mQoyLc4N-ucMHXudgacCDMk_rJk9pViNFaY9jG7Dy-r/s1600/Borek+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Turkish Borek, the most amazing savory pastry</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjg8lyBj5IaR60tJEPM_DFQdPYEPgXHQTtlA7aYpp7YX4jiMM5qJyjK6V-KkmgVn0MRRnAM-8rrv3Vf3Guln5qxhz_oiqOJniuVfEXTcWCofGQbFVCQr0XZUATM_m56HM-O0N66LSI8kbq/s1600/Figs+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjg8lyBj5IaR60tJEPM_DFQdPYEPgXHQTtlA7aYpp7YX4jiMM5qJyjK6V-KkmgVn0MRRnAM-8rrv3Vf3Guln5qxhz_oiqOJniuVfEXTcWCofGQbFVCQr0XZUATM_m56HM-O0N66LSI8kbq/s1600/Figs+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Figs. I love the smell of the fig tree so much, I have one in a pot on my balcony. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWOs9338Q6e9wyff1-WodQYDlXrVZGiNhbYvBAd9Ae2fwXr4IIOUpTymhumNv9l0I5g2PgriwFxq34tVtwUn22geKYJN2gJifY2OBUuvxALMCmq6JOtcC_THdcW7gas-1c-Ez4Iq2TZdM/s1600/Olive+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWOs9338Q6e9wyff1-WodQYDlXrVZGiNhbYvBAd9Ae2fwXr4IIOUpTymhumNv9l0I5g2PgriwFxq34tVtwUn22geKYJN2gJifY2OBUuvxALMCmq6JOtcC_THdcW7gas-1c-Ez4Iq2TZdM/s1600/Olive+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Turkish olives for breakfast and olive oil for everything else</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxV2lhVQIrDPvX53gkog9LKTkS1jb9v1LLqSmTTfKigg0UiKHirK3fWGLJeLg7v6bBZPQjGfG-vfZl08MiGx_MmYYfDBdViqsB0AAOz-OIQJsgFou3B-olgE-6BYsBuxheb2r87geV_4t/s1600/Lokum+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxV2lhVQIrDPvX53gkog9LKTkS1jb9v1LLqSmTTfKigg0UiKHirK3fWGLJeLg7v6bBZPQjGfG-vfZl08MiGx_MmYYfDBdViqsB0AAOz-OIQJsgFou3B-olgE-6BYsBuxheb2r87geV_4t/s1600/Lokum+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lokum, or Turkish Delight. Served best with Turkish coffee.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrr3nhSlErwqEU9mI8CDqZ3xUt16X40BTI7Wyj3HUQIDbe_CljpXY3Vg8OUZrA_fpBvnOuZN9HqR_kVjirBHSdlu9o9EqoS8a4l6yqr0gCkPbE74BNHY3PS_aOrfu3rcMyuIUriJWjRy8o/s1600/Turkish+Kahve+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrr3nhSlErwqEU9mI8CDqZ3xUt16X40BTI7Wyj3HUQIDbe_CljpXY3Vg8OUZrA_fpBvnOuZN9HqR_kVjirBHSdlu9o9EqoS8a4l6yqr0gCkPbE74BNHY3PS_aOrfu3rcMyuIUriJWjRy8o/s1600/Turkish+Kahve+rs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Turkish Coffee. After you drink it, someone reads your fal, or fortune, in the coffee<br />left in your cup.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSUCpFqKeWSTjhdOgHaEbBm8O0r6xjoImqhnMZzKUpvwBWzJa_DzVgWQ7w9ECRFK2NkTFUjsXcHm4itOCHRIH3sfmpAxjIL9ETGBlGVYJ9BowNBimV8zxSx8P6DO-4y_fyXueSzKIeSp1/s1600/Sunset+rs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSUCpFqKeWSTjhdOgHaEbBm8O0r6xjoImqhnMZzKUpvwBWzJa_DzVgWQ7w9ECRFK2NkTFUjsXcHm4itOCHRIH3sfmpAxjIL9ETGBlGVYJ9BowNBimV8zxSx8P6DO-4y_fyXueSzKIeSp1/s1600/Sunset+rs.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you look up from your cup, perhaps you will catch a beautiful sunset</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00307101997381819187noreply@blogger.com0