awake and wondering

well, it's 3:06 a.m. and i'm awake. went to the dr. yesterday morn. for my weekly and found out that the baby is engaged, which means that he's turned now and has moved into the birthing position. i could tell before we even went that something was different. i've been having mild cramping for 3 days now, so they monitored me yesterday for a while to see if i was having contractions and i was, but only slight ones - and it only happened twice so that's a good sign.

we scheduled my c-section for feb. 11th, but i have a feeling that i'm going to go into labor much sooner. if the way my stomach feels is any indication.... then it could be within the next few days. i don't know but the dr. did say that i could go into labor at any time. i hope not, but i can't see lasting two more weeks... but maybe i will.

i decided to get outta the house the other morn., so i went to visit my SIL at the kindergarten right around the corner from our house. as soon as i walked in, the lady who works there told me that i'm going to have the baby w/in 10 days. i'm like "no... i still have 3 weeks. there's no way that i'm gonna have the baby by 10 days." she said i must be having a big baby then.

now, after going to the dr., i realize she may be right. she's had 6 kids, so i guess she knows a thing or two about having them, but... i would have rathered she not say anything. there's a part of me that thinks she almost willed it upon me. i told my husband that i didn't like her saying that and wished she wouldn't have said it, but..... what to do. he told me not to worry, but here i am.... worrying and feeling like i'm about to have this baby!

my husband has decided that i have to stay in the bedroom and not walk around. even the dr. i saw yesterday who will do the anesthesia told me not to walk around a lot or do anything. so, i called my mom and told her. she said that it doesn't matter what i do because if i'm going to go into labor, then i'm going into labor and nothing will matter. so i'm sure that's why i can't sleep. all these thoughts are running thru my head. one is... how will i know if i'm going into labor. my mother says, "oh, you'll know." that's comforting. ;) another thing keeping me awake are the lists i'm making in my head of all that needs to be done prior to my going into the hospital. not a lot, but just enough to keep me awake obviously.

i hate being awake at this hour and not being able to do anything. it hurts to move... it's difficult to walk... i can't sit for long periods w/out pain.... being so limited is not my cup of tea. i feel like the whole world is asleep and i'm sitting here WIDE AWAKE w/ my mind going 100 mph w/ worry, anxiety, fear.... just too many things.

i guess i could talk about An Inconvenient Truth. Al Gore's documentary on global warming or Marie Antoinette, which i watched yesterday. but, i'm not in the mood to go into the details of either... maybe later.

for now, i'll stop typing since i'm sure i'm keeping the hubby awake - this keyboard isn't as quiet as you'd think! and since i was able to get a few things off my mind... maybe i'll get sleepy. here's to hoping, right?!

She Wastes No Time

The good ole days must be playing hard on Hillary's mind because it hasn't been a week since putting her hat into the ring and she's already starting a smear campaign against Barack Obama.

And it's getting really ugly.

Apparently, when Barack was a small child, his mother married an Indonesian Muslim man and they moved to Indonesia. At the age of 6, he started school there. Well, not that this is a problem, but Hillary's camp has started saying that it wasn't any ordinary school but an Islamic Madressa - you know... they're making it seem like it's one of those kind of schools where they teach the kids early on to become Islamic militants and where the kids sit on prayer mats all day, praying and learning to recite the Quran word for word.

And... they're saying that he was raised by a Muslim father... ok... and the problem w/ this is???

I almost forgot... the school IS NOT one of these schools, btw. News agencies have gone there and spoken to students and also teachers, and the school is like any other school where normal subjects are taught.... isn't it ridiculous that ppl felt the need to go there and just make sure that Obama is on the up and up - that he was telling the truth. They just HAD to find out - but can you blame them. Lord knows we don't want no Islamic militant running for Prez... unbelievable. Truly, I'm beside myself on this one.

See... what did I tell you guys - ppl aren't open minded in the States. They are racist - even more than they'd like the outside world to believe, and, to me, this shows it so clearly. If they weren't then why even bother checking up on this. Why not go w/ what Obama says. He said it wasn't that and that he wasn't raised in that way, but they didn't listen.

I guess that's why there's been such an issue over his religion. Every body's been talkin' about how Obama wasn't always Christian - oh gosh, Lord knows we can't have a non-Christian in the Oval Office.

I had issue w/ that one as soon as they mentioned it because I personally don't see the problem. Who cares what religion he is. Isn't that what America is about? Freedom? Hasn't everyone been saying how tolerant we are of other religions?? Me, personally, I don't think so.... because those hardliners and religious fanatics will make sure that this continues to be a HUGE issue in the press.

Who the hell cares if he's Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Atheist or what. It's his life and that shouldn't be a factor when running for President, but someone will run this into the ground and make sure that all of those church goers KNOW that he was raised a Muslim - even tho they haven't come out and said it.... but they have said he wasn't raised a Christian - but they do mention that he converted - hallelujah...!!

It's a shame that these games have already started.... it's so early, but I guess when it comes to Hillary and her backstabbing ways, so much time has already passed and I'm sure she feels like she's way behind. She sure wants to wipe him out fast, doesn't she... I wonder why!???

This all makes me sick. I had hoped that this time would be different, but I'm obviously very naive. I can't believe that I even thought for a minute that it would be different because it's ALWAYS the same. This crap starts and that's all they focus on. Now, Obama will have to spend tons of money and time deflecting this crap when he should focus all of his attention on the issues at hand. I like this man and even though he's really new to the whole game and has only been a Senator for two years, I was really hoping he stood a chance... now, I'm not so sure.

This also shows me that Hillary isn't a good candidate either. Her husband was like this when he ran, and it appears she's no different. Too bad.

But hey, I can't even vote so what do I care... and since I live here now, why am I getting all bent outta shape? Lord knows that the American people don't want no Muslim in the White House... I'm surprised they even elected one as Senator..... but that's different, right?! - and I'm not talking about Obama... he's a Christian, remember.

Live and Learn

Years ago, a friend of mine passed on an interesting little book to me. The title is Live and Learn and Pass It On. It lists sentences, basically, of people aged from 5 to 55 sharing what they've discovered about life, love, and other good stuff. It's a small little book, but has 159 pages of these little jewels. Here are a few and then I'm gonna add a few of my own at the bottom. I'd love to hear some of yours as well. Since life is different for all of us, I'm interested to see where it has taken you.

First... from the book... and these are random pullings from the book:

1) I've learned that untold treasures are found in the imagination of a child. - Age 30

2) I've learned that when you judge others, you are revealing your own fears and prejudices. - Age 49

3) I've learned that when I drop a slice of bread with jelly on it, it always lands jelly-side down. - Age 33

4) I've learned that my mother sometimes laughs so hard she snorts. - Age 7

5) I've learned that if there were no problems, there would be no opportunities. - Age 19

6) I've learned that there are people who love you dearly but just don't know how to show it. - Age 41

7) I've learned that being a success at the office is not worth it if it means being a failure at home. - Age 51

8) I've learned that humming a tune when you're upset can ease your mind. - Age 14

9) I've learned that when Mommy and Daddy shout at each other, it scares me. - Age 5

10) I've learned that when bad times come, you can let them make you bitter or use them to make you better. - Age 75

ok, here are just a few from the book. And here are a few of my own....

1) I've learned to be careful of what you wish for because it might just come true.

2) I've learned that life, indeed, is like a box of chocolates and you never know what you're gonna get.

3) I've learned that it makes you a better person to say that you're sorry.

4) I've learned that I love to spoon and snuggle with my husband at night.

5) I've learned to not be afraid to try new things... that way I don't look back and have regrets.

6) I've learned that I really like to walk barefoot in cold grass.

7) I've learned that life is too short to worry about getting wet in the rain.

8) I've learned that you can eat too many dark chocolate cupcakes with cream cheese icing!

9) I've learned that I would have rather taken piano lessons than baton twirling lessons.

10) I've learned that there are instances when you shouldn't be completely honest.

Well, this is my list. I can't wait to hear some of yours.

The race is on

Goodness, goodness... Mrs. Hillary Clinton has made it official. She will now run for President. I knew it would happen - it was only a matter of time.

I like Hillary, and I think it's interesting that she's wanting to be on a first name basis w/ the voters... a strategic move on her part and one that, I feel, will make her seem more down-to-earth to many ppl. In her web video, it shows her sitting in the living room on the sofa w/ a nice lamp behind her... very common... don't you think?

She's a smart lady, that's for sure. I wonder if she'll be our first woman President??!! It could happen.... and wouldn't it be funny to see Bill as the First Man/Husband!?!! I sure hope he doesn't do anything stupid and keeps his willy in his pants... because that could make or break her in the eyes of many. But knowing Hillary, she's probably given him a good talkin to.... but... to think about it, I think he's been on pretty good behavior for a while now, and I think he knows better than to mess this up for her.

This will be a tough race because she's also up against someone that I feel could be a terrific President and that's Barack Obama from Illinois. I like what he stands for, his ideas, and think he could really help America get back on her feet.... if he were to take a seat in the White House.

I saw him on Oprah some time back and he's an amazing man. If you haven't seen his web video, you should watch it. Also, here is another video that tells you about the man, his life and his accomplishments.

This will be an interesting race, that's for sure. I just hope the candidates don't take it down the road of slur tactics, but instead decide to focus on the important issues facing the American population and the country as a whole. It's time for a change and I think both of these ppl can bring about positive change to America.

Dinner at Bohemia's

Outside of the restaurant, Bohemia, in Adliya. It was dark and this pic is blurry... and you don't get to see the whole bldg... but, it gives you an idea of the place.

This isn't the best pic of the outside of the restaurant... it doesn't show the height of the bldg.... and how cool it looks, but this is the best we could do when there were so many cars out front and a constant stream of traffic.

The dinner we had wasn't as great as I had hoped. The place was nice on the inside w/ light burgundy and teal colored walls, nice light fixtures, a beautiful old wooden door at one end of the dining area - if you know the doors in Muharraq, then you'll know what type of door this was... overall the ambiance was really nice. Drinks were good. I had a marvelous orange, banana and strawberry juice that was just incredibly delicious, and Hashim had the house red wine, which he seemed to enjoy. The waitstaff were courteous and knowledgeable, which is always good when ordering... but the food, well, it could have been a lot better, I think.

For appetizers, I had an avocado and crab meat mix on red cabbage, but it came out looking a lot different than I expected and the taste was just too strong on the fishy side, which I don't care for. I think it would have been better if they had used some lemon and other herbs in the mix, but... they chose a different route, and I think if they had put the mixture right on top of the red cabbage and put a dressing on top of that, it would have been extremely tasty, but as you can see, they brought out the mixture in halved avocado shells - not nice. Hashim had a calamari salad, which ... after he ate the calamari and some of the salad, I had the remaining- and it was delicious. The dressing was some type of balsamic mixture w/ lemon and maybe even a tad of mustard... w/ spanish olives, aubergine pieces (that were to die for), small little baby onions that weren't too crunchy and melted in your mouth, tomatoes, mushrooms and yellow bell pepper. ummmm... it was so so good.

For dinner, I had first wanted pasta and should have gone w/ that choice, but I let the hubby talked me into having salmon, which I figured would be good for the baby. So, I chose a grilled salmon steak with a creamy garlic and white wine sauce, au gratin potatoes and a veggie mix. Hashim decided on a t-bone steak w/ a creamy pepper gravy, french fries and a salad.

I didn't like mine at all. The salmon was way too fishy, which I can't stand - thankfully I had the gravy to dip it in. I only had a small amount of it and brought the leftovers home to feed to the outside cats! The potatoes were the best thing on my plate. I ate every single, delicious bite of those. They were rich and creamy w/ the added benefit of being mixed w/ an aged cheddar cheese. It delighted my taste buds.... ummmm... heavenly. The veggies were pretty plain. Hashim's steak was good, he said. He ate every single bite... but if I were the chef I would have chosen something different to go w/ the steak other than french fries. It seemed too much like a chain restaurant to me. His salad was very plain w/ lettuce, tomatoes and such thrown on a plate w/out a dressing and such. It was a bit disappointing.

We didn't have desert, since I had gotten a bday cake for the hubby at a great place called LiLou's. It's a dark chocolate cake w/ dark choc. icing, thin and crunchy dark choc. leaves on the sides of the cake decorated w/ gold veins, dark choc. flowers on the top in one corner, and a musical note sheet on the top - for affect.

The cake is just to die for. It has the best flavor, is moist and much bigger than I expected. It has a nice crunchy filling in between the layers that reminds me of rice crispies in some type of light and creamy glaze.... very nice. I will say, this place knows bday cakes!

At first, I was a bit disappointed w/ the cake. I was to pick it up at 10 and when I got there, they couldn't find it and it wasn't ready. They gave the excuse of their power being out that morning... but I had ordered it days in advance, so I was a bit miffed over it. I waited some 30 mins, when they told it would take 5 mins. When I got it, it looked nothing like - or rather the scroll on top - the picture they had shown me. It was then that I asked if they had just put the scroll on the cake and he said, "yes". The scroll didn't look like the picture and I was really pissed. After telling him that I was disappointed w/ it, I took the cake and hoped that the hubby would like it.

He did... and that's the most important thing, right?!! It was and is utterly delicious. I also bought candles for the cake and come to find out, they were magic candles that lighted back up after blowing them out. So... after singing happy birthday to my husband, he made his wish and blew out the candles. Not 2 seconds later, the candles were all relighting... and not only that, but they had some type of little sparklers inside... so it made it all very festive. :) After about the 5th time of trying to blow those babies out, we decided to read the back of the package which said you had to put them out in water! It was all great fun ... but he now wonders if his wishes will come true, seeing that the candles didn't go out... I wonder if that makes a difference! ;) I'm sure it doesn't... and I'm sure all his wishes will come true this year... I can feel it! :)

Well... this was our night out. I can't write descriptions about food like my friend, Olivia... she is the master at tantalizing your taste buds and giving you every scrumptious detail of what she ate.... but... at least you have an idea! :)

sleepless night

I got my first real taste of being up all night lastnight. I've had nights for the last few weeks of hardly getting sleep, but lastnight, I got pretty much zilch. Since we went to dinner late and I had a few glasses of water and some juice, I was up most of the night visiting the bathroom. At one point, I stumbled outta bed, could hardly see and told myself that this is nothing and I better get prepared for a lot worse. Not that it made it any better.... I just sat there wondering how I would cope. I've heard so many horror stories... weeks of sleepless nights.... not being able to think or function... and I sit and wonder how I will do it. I know that a woman's body, the mind... your physical self kicks into high gear and pulls you through it.... I just wonder, worry, ask myself if I'm ready. I've been told by a few, lately, that I won't be able to do it - but I know I will. I'm sure I won't be the life of the party for weeks, maybe even months, but... I will be able to do this. Maybe they had housemaids to take the baby... their mothers to take the baby... but I am the one who will take the baby in my case.

I can say that I know better today though. I will try to finish all my water in the early part of the day so that, maybe, I'll be able to sleep better tonight. If not for myself, for my husband. I kept him awake as well... I thought I was (even tho he said nothing), but this morning he told me that he didn't get any sleep lastnight and that he's really tired. I feel bad and don't know what to do other than possibly moving into the baby's room at night if it doesn't get better.

I'm just soooo tired. I feel sick to my stomach from being so tired and only wonder what it'll be like when the baby comes. It's bad enough that I can hardly get outta bed once I lay down, but now, on top of that, I can't sit up when trying to get outta bed or roll over w/out it being an event ... as much as you'd think that these things wouldn't be an issue... they are... they become just impossible. Lastnight, I think I repositioned myself while trying to rest ... well, maybe 30 or so times. I lay on one side until my arm goes numb, then I roll over - which takes great effort - and lay on that side until the same thing happens. Then I roll over again and again and again.

They say it's better to sleep sitting up. I laugh at this and wonder how I'd do that. I've tried propping myself up in bed w/ pillows but I can't sleep like this. My tail bone hurts like crazy and it just isn't comfortable. I'm thinking a reclining chair might work.... or maybe the sofa in the hallway upstairs. It has lots of pillows... but... when I have to get up at night, I can't imagine having to walk down the hall, in the dark - pregnant, going into the bedroom, making my way to the bathroom and then going back to the sofa. It just seems like an accident waiting to happen.

Maybe tonight will be different. Maybe lastnight was an isolated incident - but I don't think so. I think it's only the beginning to be honest. aaaahhhh.... sleep. You know, I heard years ago that this is God's way of preparing you for motherhood... and I do agree. I guess I'm in the beginning stages of my lessons!!!

happy day to you :)

It's his BIRTHDAY!!!

Oh man... another year has flown by and the hubby is feeling it... for it is his birthday today!

So... a BIG Happy Birthday to Hashim!!

I wish you every happiness, and I hope you get so many things that your heart desires and longs for this year!!

Tonight we're trying a new place called Bohemia's (new for us)... I hope it's good. He's been relaxing and working on a new look for his blog today.... and I've been kind enough to not make him do anything around the house - dang these birthdays! ;)

The weather has been perfect today - prob low 70s or high 60s, and tonight is looking to be nearly the same, which makes for a splendid day.... I also gave him some much needed time alone by having a long lunch w/ some friends, so he's really a happy camper! ;)

Anyway... I'll run for now.... and again, Happy Birthday my love!! :)

An interesting talk with my MIL and SIL

During this past Eid holiday, we went out to eat w/ my in-laws. While chatting w/ my MIL and one of my SILs, the topics of breast feeding and staying at my MILs house after the birth came up. I had already decided that I wouldn't be staying at my MILs house after coming home from the hospital. There are many reasons for this, but the thing w/ them is that they totally believe that the woman shouldn't be around the husband for 40 days after the birth. I disagree w/ this. I'm of the belief that my husband will help out w/ the baby and we will share things, and we'll both bond w/ the baby. Most ppl in this region don't believe in the husband helping w/ anything. He must have his rest and not be bothered w/ the slightest thing is the mindset of many or at least my in-laws - Lord forbid my husband not get 8 hrs of sleep a night or get up during a feeding!! Not just my MIL believes this, but each and every female in this household believes this.

In the States, yeah, you get help from your mother and such, but the husband is also involved, and I plan to raise our baby w/ the help of my husband - thankfully he agrees. I can't imagine if he didn't. I've told my MIL this, but it falls on deaf ears. She was the same when it came to imagining her son being in the delivery room w/ me. I heard all the horror stories of how he would never forget and it would never be the same and such. I dismissed it. But, now that I've decided to have a c-section, this won't be an issue, and funny enough, she is exhilarated at the fact that he won't be in delivery w/ me! lol

Well, I heard one story after another of all the bad things that can happen to the baby in the first few days and weeks after birth. Thankfully, I'll be in the hospital for 5 of those. But, it got to a point that I was somewhat scared and I guess she saw it on my face and again insisted that I come to the house after coming home. Yes, I know it'll be stressful on me to be by myself, but I know I can do it. I have that strength and I'm ready.... I don't need to go there and have things that I don't believe in told to me or insisted upon being done. You know??

Anyway, after this discussion, we went on to breastfeeding. I was then told that I should not breastfeed around anyone, INCLUDING my husband. That, if I did, it wouldn't be good for the baby to see this. Ok, what part of the baby seeing my husband come into the room will affect him and his life? I majored in psychology w/ an emphasis in child psychology, and never once did I study anything like this. So, I guess this is the problem w/ half or more of the world out there... they were breastfed in front of ppl.

Yeah, I understand not breastfeeding in public and this is something that I won't do because I'm just too bashful, but in front of MY HUSBAND???? She went on to tell me how my SIL (her daughter - who wasn't there at that point) never breastfed around her and that she insisted on her not doing so. Then my other SIL piped in w/ how she didn't breastfeed around her husband and would never do that. Well, she only tried breastfeeding for like two weeks, if that, so I don't understand the point really. Matter of fact, most of these ppl didn't totally breastfeed their babies because no one would spend the time needed to breastfeed, which I intend to do, even if it takes 2 hrs at a time, which they say happens. But, then they remind me how they breastfed for 2 years... how they consider feeding their babies for like 15 mins. breastfeeding... well, I don't get it, but maybe that's the life here.

Well, I told them straight up that I intend to breastfeed in front of my husband. No one said a word. I waited to see what or if anyone would try to tell me how wrong I was for my beliefs, but they didn't. And really, I don't care what they think. There will come a time when my husband comes in the room when I'm feeding, or when he sits w/ me at night - which is a great way for him to bond w/ the baby as well. And... what about the nurses at the hospital? Are they not supposed to see this either? phew... it all just is exhausting mentally. Thank goodness I do my own thing and plan to do so after the baby.

I was also told how I should start feeding the baby food at 2 mths. My MIL said she did this w/ my husband and the one SIL said she started feeding her baby bananas and such at two months. I'm not planning to do this. I will introduce food at 4 mths. I was also told how I should give some type of sugar water to the baby after he's first born in order to clean out his bowels and to keep him from being cranky... I've personally never heard of this and when I told my mom, well, she didn't know what to think.

But you know, I was talking to an Indian friend of mine and she said they believed the same. That you feed the baby sugar water for the first several days after birth - BUT... they weren't doing this and didn't believe in it. Her husband is a Pediatrician and doesn't agree w/ it... so I feel pretty good about not doing this.

So.. what are your thoughts?

yeah, ok, i'm a witch but w/ a "b"

for as much as i'm trying my hardest to control my emotions, some things just really erk me to no end and one of those is ppl not being clean. i can not stand for things to be filthy and for ppl to not bathe and such.

anyway, like i've said, i'm a clean freak and i expect that from the girl that is working for us as well. yeah, i know i said that i'd never get another person to work here, but we did. and right now i need it because i can't clean the house or do much of anything, so it's good that she's here... or at least i think so on some days.

today, while sitting downstairs and having breakfast, i started thinking about this girl, her room and the fact that she's taken some of my hair things w/out asking and is wearing them. this is something that the previous girl did and i'm not in the mood for that crap to start happening again. i haven't said anything to her about this and it's been happening for months now... i guess my logic has been why say something coz the hair thing didn't cost hardly anything, but really, when you look at it, it's the principle of the matter, not the cost of the item.

if she had asked me, i would have given her the hair clips... but she didn't. instead, she chose to take them from my stuff and wear them w/out asking. my husband says it's because i'm too nice to her and give she and her husband things... because of this she thinks she can take anything. i don't know what it is, but i put an end to it today.

i guess about two months ago, she and her husband (who works for my FIL) were living in the room downstairs (inside the house) which is our office. after seeing ants going in and out of the room from under the door, i decided to go in there and have a look at how they were keeping the room. mind you, i had told her to keep that room clean and since she has friday's off, to clean it on fridays. needless to say, i called my husband to the room immediately so he could see how they had been living. the room was beyond filthy. it was at this point that we decided to have them move to the room outside. you wouldn't believe what the room looked like. the small fridge we let them use was so dirty and something from inside had leaked all over the nice carpet i put in there and they hadn't bothered to clean it up so there were dead ants all over the floor that they had obviously killed but neglected to clean the crap from the floor, food was on the floor and under their bed, dirty plates were on the cabinets, ants were everywhere and it smelled bad.

while they were moving their things, i came across my glasses on their bed. these are my prescription glasses which had been in the kitchen. i took them and immediately asked my husband why they were in her room. he asked her husband and her husband said that they weren't using them... ok, if they weren't using them, then why were they in that room?!! i had obviously made the mistake of giving her husband prescription glasses from satiya, the girl that used to work for us, so maybe they assumed they could have the other ones... i don't know but i don't go for that stuff. this was the first of it. then, i saw one of my hair clips in her room, then she had taken several things off of the computer desk and was using this stuff for her personal use. as soon as i saw this, i took it back and put it back on the computer desk - but didn't say anything. well, that afternoon, i went in the computer room and the stuff that i had taken back was again missing. so... i told my husband and he asked her about it. she denied having it and pretended to not know what he was talking about.

what did i do? i went out to her room and asked for the items. she said she didn't have them and i told her that i knew she had them and to give them to me. she then went to the cabinet and took the items out. i took them from her and told her that these are mine, not yours and you can not have them. ok.. that was settled, or so i thought.

so, i guess for the last couple of weeks, she's been sporting another of my hair clips. every time i see it in her hair, it pisses me off, but i don't say anything. well, today when i made the surprise inspection of their room - for the main purpose of seeing if she's taken anything else of mine and to see if she has my other missing hair clips - i see that their room is absolutely filthy. as i said, we give her friday's off and i've told her multiple times to clean her room on fridays, which she said that she was doing.... but she is not.

when i went out there, for one, i could hardly fit through the door of the room. yeah, ok, i feel like a cow right now ... maybe even look like one too, but when you can't fit thru the doorway of a room... well, that makes you feel your size real quick and it did. but, believe me, i managed to get in there and i'm glad i did. (thought i'd add a little humor for all of your amuzement! ;) )
but, i couldn't get thru the door because they have sooooo much stuff all over the floor and such...

their trash can was completely full and there were ants coming out of it.... that was the first thing to set me off. and then, her husband, who stays w/ her in the room, has been smoking and putting his butts out on the top of the trash can and they don't clean it, so, not only could that cause a fire, but.... it was disgustingly filthy. then, they had old plates of food in there, which i've told them time and time again to not leave uneaten food or dirty plates in their room because it attracts bugs - and how ppl could sleep w/ bugs crawling around everywhere and such is beyond me. the carpet was gross and covered w/ crap... the bathroom, well, i could hardly get the door open but when i did, it's rather obvious that they don't clean the bathroom. the toilet seat was covered w/ fresh and caked-on urine. obviously her husband doesn't lift the lid to urinate and there was piss all over the top of the lid. now... you wanna talk about mad... well, this really made me mad. i wondered how she's going to the bathroom... does she sit down on that crap?!! they don't use anything to wipe - no toilet paper or anything, which i don't get, but, again, my husband says it's a cultural thing and something they're not raised w/... ok... i get that... but for God's sake, CLEAN THE BATHROOM.

i looked around for stuff... but, i was so angry that i didn't look in the cabinets or drawers to see if my clips or anything else was there. yeah, you might say it's an invasion of their privacy, but i'm to the point that i don't care. when you take my things w/out asking, then i feel like i have the right to look thru your stuff. call me a beeaatch if you want to and i'm sure they think i'm one, but, again, i don't care.

after squeezing my fat bod thru their doorway again and claiming freedom to myself, i came inside, went upstairs and immediately started telling her that i will not stand for her room to be dirty. (i don't yell.... i just get a real stern sound in my voice, which i think is enough) i told her that i have told her on many occasions that she is to clean her room on fridays and she isn't doing it. i told her that she is to go there right now, clean the trash, the bathroom and pick up everything that is laying everywhere in that room. funny how she never knows what i mean when i saw "now", but she understood me this time.

this is when i called my husband and insisted that he call her husband and send him to the house. when her husband arrived, my husband had also arrived, and i proceeded to tell her and her husband that i will not stand for that room to be a mess. i asked them if they live like this in sri lanka, he said nothing. i asked if they clean their house there and again he said nothing. i told him that i have told her over and over again to keep that room clean, and then i told him that i will not stand for them pissing on the top of their toilet seat and that this is their last chance to keep that room clean. he got a smile on his face, which pissed me off and i let into him a little more. he's a dirty person and why he can't lift the lid to pee is something i can't understand.

what i've done in the past, when she refuses to listen to what i saw and follow my directions is take things from them... like the DVD player we were allowing them to use. i told her that if she doesn't do as i say, then i will take the TV. this seems to work... believe me. because the last time, when she kept leaving the windows open and our cats would get out or the outside cat would get in, i'd ask her who left the window open and she'd swear she didn't do it... well, i know i didn't do it and the hubby didn't do it... so did the cats open the window???? this is when i got mad and took the DVD player. since then, the window has never been opened again, except to clean it and it's always closed properly.

oh... and while i was telling him all of this to tell to her - because she doesn't or pretends to not understand most of what i say, i went up to her and pointed to my hair clip in her hair and told her that that hair clip is MINE. and that she is not to take anything else that belongs to me and asked, "is that clear?". i told her that satiya used to do that and that i made it perfectly clear when she came and was trained by this other woman NOT to take my things and here she has been taking my hair clips. i told her to keep that hair clip because i didn't want it, and that if she had asked, i would have given it to her, but that if she took anything else w/out asking, i would not stand for it. i should have told her that i would take the money from her salary, since that seems to work in making sure something is done properly.

so.... i guess about 20 mins ago, she came into the bedroom to clean our bathroom. i could tell from her sniffling and such that she had been crying... yes, i felt like a cad, but... if i don't act like that, they refuse to do as i say.... so... she went into the bathroom and i went in there after her. i lifted the toilet seat and told her that for now on she is NOT TO ALLOW her husband to pee all over the toilet seat. i asked her how she goes to the bathroom w/ the toilet seat covered in piss (this is the only word she knows in english for urine) and she just looked at me. i told her that for now on, her husband is not to piss on the toilet seat and that if he does, he will not be staying w/ her in the room any longer. we shall see what happens.

yeah, i'm a bitch on days... especially w/ my pregnancy, but because i was shown the true sense of what happens, if you don't say anything, w/ the last girl that worked for us, it has changed me and i won't go thru that crap again.

baby room pics

these are some pics of our baby's room. hubby painted shelves today that will be hung tomorrow and he's gonna paint the ceiling blue w/ white fluffy clouds this weekend.... i'm still trying to decide if we should add more animals or leave it as is... so maybe within a week or so, we'll decide. the beautiful quilt you see in the crib is the baby's quilt that my mom hand made for me. it's soooo sweet. it has numerous animals on it that she painted - horse, cat, duck, cow, pig, rabbit and a few others... so if you can't tell, i love animals. :) and i'm hoping that that love will be passed to the baby. and, i'm hoping that once i feel better, i'll be able to draw and paint a big vine w/ huge leaves on it above the door, and then paint his name either in the leaves or beside them... i think that'll be cute. we still have a few things to get for the room and for the baby... but at least it's starting to take a definite shape.... which is really exciting.

Out with the old, in with the New

Happy New Year everyone!! May you find every happiness in the coming year, and may the world be more peaceful.... I really hope for that.

Wow, this past year has flown by.... isn't it odd how the older you get, the faster time flies. I can remember being a young girl and just dying to be 15 or even 18, and gosh, the thought of turning 21, well, it was a day that I longed for.

Now, as I'm getting older, I cherish time more than anything and only wish it would slow down. I can only imagine how fast it'll pass with a baby! Here my niece is 6 years old and I can remember when she was a little baby, which seems like yesterday. My SIL's both have children around the age of 1 1/2 yrs., and I can remember them as tiny babies like it was yesterday.

The new year has been good so far. The hubby spent all day yesterday finishing up or doing the final touches on the baby's room, putting together the crib and helping me w/ all the little extras. It's so cute... actually quite adorable, I must admit. We did a jungle theme in the room w/ two colors of paint on the walls - tan on the top and green on the bottom, w/ the green going up and down like hills - it took him about 3 days to paint it and he did a fantastic job... not sure if I could have done better myself! ;) At first I thought we would try to draw and paint a jungle theme on the walls and I asked my mom to draw some monkeys for me (I'm not good w/ drawing animals), but wouldn't you know it - one of my favorite stores (Manazel) had boxes of all different types of decorating sticker schemes for children's rooms at their store and one just happened to be a jungle theme! I could hardly believe it. It's perfect and it looks so precious on the walls.

There is a tall tree where you can measure the height of the child - as he grows - and the tree has a monkey hanging from the top, there are huge leaves w/ big eyes poking out, a lion, tiger, giraff, turtle, birds, alligator, flemingo, paw prints, big bugs, elephant... just all sorts of animals that will allow for hours of imagination to play in the mind of the baby as he is growing up. I love it and I hope he does too!!

I even have a mobile for the baby's crib that is a jungle theme. It's so cute and goes w/ the room perfectly. We're gonna take pics to send to my mom, so maybe later today I'll post some online.

Getting it done has really helped me to feel more at ease. That room was a total disaster and I found myself getting all panicy over it, and now.... it actually feels like things are coming together. The birds are still in the room and we've decided to move them downstairs today and put them in the office. I hate putting them in there because the window is small and the light isn't bright, but for right now, it'll have to be ok. At least there's a window and we go in that room every day, so they'll have lots of interaction and such.... plus, it won't be as noisy as it is in the mornings w/ them right next to our bedroom.

Well... I hope all of you are having a wonderful new year, had lots of fun on New Year's Eve... and, if you're off, are enjoying the time. Bahrain is on holiday right now for Eid - so here's a BIG Happy Eid to to all of you as well.... gosh, I almost forgot!!

Happy day everyone!

and soooo.... he's dead

Well.... today marks the end of Saddam Hussain. We found out before lunch today and, really, to be honest, I don't agree w/ the death penalty. Even for a man such as that, I don't agree w/ anyone being put to death. I'm sure a lot of it has to do w/ the way I was raised and in a church that is against the dealth penalty or maybe it's just that I have a real problem w/ anyone but God giving death to someone.... because when I look at it, I think, who are we, as humans, to kill another human being.

Some of you believe in an eye for an eye or say that he deserved it because of all that he did to the Shi'a's in Iraq, but even still, I don't agree w/ it. Do I believe he should have suffered in this life, yes... but that can easily be done in prison.

I was watching BBC News earlier and it showed him in the final minutes... walking into the area where they were to hang him - they were talking about the black coat he was wearing to keep from getting a chill and how he refused to put a cloth over his head... just to sit and watch this is something I couldn't do. He was a crazy man, he was a killer, he was a torturer, he was a lot of things... but I couldn't sit and watch what was about to happen to him.

Really, it all makes me feel really sad. I hate when ppl are put to death. Yes, call me crazy if you want and argue w/ me... tell me how wrong I am for my beliefs, how wrong I am to feel the way I feel about this - about a man such as this - but I do.

I know that many are happy, but what will his killing do for the world? Will it calm Iraq? Will it take away the violence in that country? Will it make the ppl happy there? Will it end all the daily killings and car bombings? No. Today, if I'm not mistaken - since his execution - there have been 3 more car bombs that have killed some 50 ppl. I truly believe that everything will escalate now. The U.S. is looking at sending in more troops... troops that aren't there. Will they start to draft ppl again in the States? I doubt it... but, where will these extra troops come from? How long will it be before the U.S. pulls out? How long will it be before the Iraqi forces can feel secure enough to take care of their country? Will it ever happen? Will peace ever come to that country?

There are so many questions, so many things that can't be solved w/ the killing of Saddam Hussain..... but it's too late now.

Well, just found out that hubby has found a clip of the execution online and he'll probably watch it. We are so different in these things.... I can't, I won't watch it. I have a hard time understanding why someone would want to.... but that's just me.

LATE Merry Christmas

Can't hardly believe that I totally forgot to leave a post on my blog yesterday about Christmas. Seems like blogging is the last thing on my mind as of late.... so for all of you out there, I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!!

The hubby worked yesterday, so he opened his presents late in the day... me, well, I opened my presents days ago, so I had nothing to open yesterday! But, even still, it was nice to watch him open everything.

I cooked yesterday and made some of my favorite dishes including the turkey, macaroni & cheese casserole, baked beans, candied sweet potatoes and mashed potatoes and some delicious turkey gravy. It was yummy. I think Christmas dinner is one of my favorites. Growing up, my mom always fixed ham and turkey on Christmas (I love ham). I haven't had ham in I don't know how long... I think I've even forgotten how it tastes! I don't know if they sell it here, but I bet they do... I wonder how many ppl actually buy hams here in Bahrain.

We went to a wonderful dinner party the other evening. I met some really nice ppl and even met a blog friend that I've long talked to but never knew personally. I didn't know it was him until we were about to leave, so I didn't get the chance to chat, but it was really nice putting a face to the name. So... hey there Moclippa! It was nice meeting you!! I didn't have a chance to ask, but are you back here for a holiday break? Glad to hear that you like studying in the States... especially all the concerts! There are a lot of concerts in the States, huh?! I sometimes long to see some of my favorite artists... or at least know that the opportunity is there - if I wanted to see them - but living here, it's sorta tough. Good to know you're enjoying it though!

hmmm... oh yeah, there are a lot of friends that have changed their blogs to the new format, and since I didn't do it when I had the chance, I can't leave comments on your blogs now. I've tried over and over, but it won't allow me to post a comment and blogger won't allow me to upgrade at the moment. So... maybe once blogger allows those of us who were lazy and didn't change or upgrade immediately to Beta to post comments and such, then I'll be able to comment on your blogs... who knows. Until then, I'll keep reading.

You know, this holiday season I've met some of the nicest ppl. I've met several British women that are married to Bahrainis, some British couples, one German lady that's married to a Greek guy - she was so interesting and funny (I love the German accent) and he seemed very introspective, some Indian couples, a very charming and charismactic Bahraini woman who told the best stories and was so charming and charismactic, and even some really nice Bahraini guys... just some of the nicest people. It's been such a good time. I think since living in Bahrain, which has almost been 4 years now, this has been the first year that I've met so many nice and friendly ppl.

What I've noticed most, when meeting ppl from different backgrounds (or these particular ppl), is how honest and personable they are, and I must say, I really like the British. The women seem so honest and so willing to be open and friendly. I hadn't thought that before because we once wen't to the British Club and ppl weren't friendly, but I've had a total change of heart! American women can be the same (friendly and all), but sometimes you get a lot of fakeness w/them - even the men. Not all of them - it purely depends on the setting and who they are, their backgrounds and such, but so far... I really see a difference between the British and the American women - a good difference. Maybe it's just that us expats that are married to Bahrainis are of a different caliber! ;) Maybe we have some type of umphhhh that others don't have (kidding here), but really, so far I've met some of the nicest women that are so similar to me. They are so willing to be friends and it's not fake... I like that. When I moved to Bahrain, I lost a lot of my friends because they disagreed w/ my decision to move here. They also disagreed w/ my marrying my husband..... so it's really nice to meet other women who have done the same and to find their company so enjoyable. You know??

I will say though, I do think there's something to meeting an expat that's married to a Bahraini. They can identify w/ you and what you're feeling, things you've gone through... there's just some type of comfort level that's almost an immediate tie that binds you.... which may sound weird, but it's true. Or at least I feel it. Maybe I'm the only one. Altho, as soon as I say that, there was this Bahraini woman that I met the other night, and I loved listening to her. She was different than most I've met here... she had a freedom, an openness about her that was terribly attractive and you immediately wanted to be friends w/ her. She talked so fast in English and I felt myself engaging immediately. She told me about how she's been to Bloomington, Indiana, which isn't far from where I grew up, and about how much she loved it there. I think everyone around us thought we were crazy to talk about such a small town w/ such love and admiration.

With respect to my pregnany, my dr. put me on 3 weeks of medical leave yesterday. I'm allowed to walk about a little and do some things, but not too much. She thinks my body is trying to go into early labor and wants to avoid it at all costs. I do too. I don't want to have the baby early and would prefer to be safe rather than sorry. I'm feeling pretty good altho I have days where I'm either terribly grouchy and no one wants to be around me, or I have pain in my stomach and can't do anything.... or I'm the most lovable pregnant lady you've seen. Too bad I can't tap into those lovely days and put it into my veins intravenously... my husband would love that!! Because they seem to be few and far between!

So... I will either be writing a lot on my blog or not. Lately I've been bored of blogging or just focusing on other things, so I haven't blogged at all. My sister asked what happened and what's the matter, but it's not that... I think my mind is totally committed to other things right now and blogging hasn't been a priority. I'm not sure. I've thought about blogging... cuz I've seen a couple of pretty good movies including The Holiday w/ Cameran Diaz, Jude Law, Jack Black and Kate Winslet. It was really nice. A chick flick, but a good click flick. I even teared up towards the end. I recommend it to anyone who wants a nice feel good movie. We also saw Little Miss Sunshine. I liked this movie. It was filled w/ all sorts of what I'd call "real" moments. Real in that it showed how some families interact w/ each other, the stress of family life, the stress of not getting what you want in life, but how not getting what you want doesn't make you a bad person. It was a sweet movie that filled me w/ laugher at times and made me think about life.

Oh yeah, we also watched that movie Borat. I laughed outloud a couple of times, but what got me more than anything was how the movie showed the racist behavior of Americans and how stupid some ppl are in some states in the U.S. I've known this and have had lots of ppl tell me how wrong I am about this when I've talked about it (racism in the States), but I've worked w/ some the most racist ppl over the years, so it was no surprise to me. The movie shows it clearly. Made me wonder what these ppl are thinking now... but some of them are probably so stupid that they didn't even realize they were in the movie... even tho he's being sued by many for making them look bad. But you know, how can you make someone look bad?? That quality is in your nature or it's not... plain and simple. I don't recommend paying full price at the theatre to see the movie, but it's a good rental.

Anyway... happy day everyone.

War on Christmas

Yesterday I was watching some news program and they were talking about this religious Jewish leader that decided he was going to take this airport to court in Seattle, Washington, because they had 14 Christmas trees erected in their airport at each exit. He told them that if they didn't take the trees down, then he would file suit against them. So... what did the airport do?? They took the trees down.

They interviewed some travellers at the airport and asked their opinions, and everyone they talked to couldn't understand the logic behind someone, a Rabbi, complaining, and the fact that the airport actually took the trees down.

Really, I don't get this. This kind of crap has been going on for years now. All of a sudden, groups of ppl are getting their panties in a wad and wanting Christians to stop celebrating Christmas or at least, not show any signs of the holiday and Lord forbid, say the words "Merry Christmas". It's all a load of crap, I think. Now, because ppl are so afraid of being politically incorrect or of offending someone, you find that a lot of ppl have gone to saying "happy holidays" or "have a joyous holiday season", instead of the good ole "Merry Christmas".

It all makes me wonder what these Rabbis and such think when they walk into stores in the U.S. and there are Christmas trees everywhere. Makes me want to laugh. Who are they to tell an airport to stop a tradition that they've had for years?!! Who are they to tell them they'll sue them if they don't take the trees down!! Who are ppl to say that we can't use the words "Merry Christmas" any more or make ppl feel so bad about it, and that we, as a society, stop using such words so as to not make any particular group mad.

I once worked for this Jewish firm in the States and we weren't allowed to put up a Christmas tree.... I always hated that. Here the CFO's and such were in NY, but we, in Dallas, weren't allowed to put up a tree or even decorate the office. Lord forbid anyone celebrate the birth of Christ..... or even put up a tree just to have some holiday spirit. Because really, to look at the holiday closely, many will find that a lot of families don't put up trees or decorate for the religious reasons... it's a tradition and it brings out a feeling inside of you.... it brings back memories... it gives you a good feeling.... the kids love it.... it's just a way to celebrate the holidays. I can't say that I think it's good or bad really - not to do it for the religious reasons - but I know that I love to decorate for Christmas. Do I think about the birth of Christ? Did I think about this as a child? Yes and yes. But I don't put up my tree for that purpose, nor do I give gifts for that reason.... but I never forget, which I'm guessing, that most who celebrate Christmas, don't forget either. Here lies the problem w/ these other faiths... or is it just a way to cause a problem?

I was listening to 106.3 lastnight and they were talking about a 'war on Christmas', and how a lot of ppl have stopped saying the word "Christmas". Just recently, Billy Bush was giving some speech or was marking the lighting of the huge Christmas tree outside the White House or something (caught the tail end of this, so I'm not sure), and he used the words "Merry Christmas" over and over again, while others talking during this same event did the same, but when it came to signing off that evening, the news anchors said "have a joyous holiday season".

Personally, I believe we should be able to celebrate any holiday we want and say the words related to that holiday w/out the likes of other religious groups saying anything. I can't imagine it if we weren't allowed to put up a tree here in Bahrain. I'm happy because I get to see trees standing tall in stores here.... even some very Muslim stores, you will see Christmas trees decorated w/ lights blinking.... and even once, when I was shopping a few years back at Seef Mall, I was in a store and there was another person shopping and they asked, "are you Christmas shopping" and I said, "yes"... and then they said "Merry Christmas". It was really nice and it gave me a warm feeling inside - just to feel that bond w/ another person at Christmastime, especially when you're so far away from the U.S. I can't imagine a world where we're not allowed to have such joy.

Hello hospital

The last week has been kinda weird in that last Tuesday night I started having contractions, which are called Braxton Hicks, but mine were a bit stronger and scared me a lot. I've been having these for the last few weeks, which is normal and the nurse from my antenatal class told me that it is to be expected. I hadn't worried so much about them until the other evening when I was at the grocery and my stomach started tightening up and letting go to the point that I thought I was going into labor. It had been doing this, at this level, for two days, so... I went to the hospital/drs. ofc. and was admitted that night so that they could monitor me, give me meds to stop the contractions and make sure everything was ok. I got a shot/injection that nearly knocked me out, meds to strengthen the baby's lungs and another med to stop the contractions, which it did... the meds to strengthen the baby's lungs were a precautionary measure - just in case I delivered. That way, the baby would be - hopefully - able to breathe on his own and such.

Thankfully, the baby is ok, I'm ok and the contractions have stopped - for the most part. I've been having a few today but nothing like last week. I'm on bedrest until Sat. I go back to the dr. then to make sure all is fine. If I had the baby now, he'd live, but the bad thing is that I wouldn't be able to bring him home immediately, and I wouldn't be able to have him in the hospital of my choice. The only hospital equipped to handle a premature baby is Salmaniya - the govt hospital here, and I DO NOT want to have the baby there! So... inshallah (God willing), the baby waits and will be ok until my 38th week.

I've decided to have a c-section. I was gonna try for natural birth, but because of my age and because I've been having some probs w/ gestational diabetes, it'll be easier to have a c-section. Plus, I can arrange for that to be done and don't have to worry about anything. Or at least I hope :) From what we've gathered, looks like I'll have the c-section around Feb. 5th... so that means we're having an Aquarias baby! I was first thinking we'd have a Picses, but not now. I've read all sorts of things about young Aquarians and it seems as though they can be pretty stubborn and such, which isn't anything new cuz both me and the hubby are stubborn as all get out. In the Chinese calendar, we're having a boar. So w/ the mix of each of these and the mix of our genes, I'm hoping that we have a creative little spirit that loves music, art, animals and life. But don't all parents want their children to love what they love?

I haven't been doing a lot except watching TV. We decorated, or rather the hubby decorated, the Christmas tree lastnight. It's beautiful. I'll take a pic and post it the next time. I haven't wrapped my family's presents, but will have to do that tomorrow or the next day so that we can get this stuff in the mail.

The meds I'm taking make me really tired, so I haven't been online at all or reading blogs - which I miss a lot. Really, I haven't been doing a lot of anything. I get rather paranoid any time I feel tightening in my stomach .... afraid that I'm going into labor. But, thankfully, it hasn't happened and hopefully wont until it's time.

Oh... when I went to the hospital last week, I sent a message to my director to let him know what had happened and that I wouldn't be at work the following day, well.... the hubby goes to work the next day and says that I was in the hospital and what does everyone say and start spreading around??? That I had the baby. I got I don't know how many msgs asking if I had the baby and what was the sex or that they had heard I had the baby and wanted to know the sex. For some reason, it really pissed me off. I guess w/ the stress of everything, I couldn't appreciate it for anything other than gossip, which I loathe. I don't understand ppl saying something for the sake of saying it when they have no solid evidence or information. Yeah, maybe it's that ppl are excited or such... but I don't see it as that. Again, I'm sure the stress of it all, combined w/ the fact that I have three more months left, combined w/ the fact that I do not want to have the baby YET.... combined w/ ... IF I had had the baby, they would have known.... well... you get the point.

anyway.... this has been the exciting news as of late. I wanted to post about "The Opera in the Park" we went to two Thursdays ago, but I haven't as of yet. Thought Olivia might be interested in that. It was wonderful. We took blankets, sat under the stars, and listened to some beautiful singers from the UK and a pianist turn out some of the best tunes.... so.. when I get a few minutes of wanting to write, then I'll post some of the info on that for any of you that might like it.

Take care... and I hope to get around to some blogs that I dearly love in the next day or so. I miss all of you! :)

when it rains, it pours

This is a picture of Muharraq at 8:45 a.m., yesterday, Nov. 26th. Muharraq is one of the biggest cities in Bahrain. (edit: hubby said that one of the license plates on a car is Saudi, so maybe this isn't Bahrain after all... apparently Saudi gets a lot of rain up north)

We had a major rain storm yesterday... hence the picture. I woke up to huge bangs that sounded like bombs dropping at about 4 a.m., with each one getting louder and louder - obviously as the thunder got closer - then all of a sudden at about 5:00 a.m., it started to down pour.

This is the first time, since living here, that I've experienced such heavy rain that lasted all day long. And... for that matter, I've NEVER heard thunder before in this country. It was quite different than thunder in Dallas and in the States... like I said, it sounded more like bombs dropping than anything. It was the weirdest sound and sort of frightening. When I heard it, I kept thinking... "what is that sound" - wondering if a construction crew had already started working that early (which isn't odd - it happens a LOT). I love heavy rain, the kind that lasts for days, but the rain here wrecks havoc on the streets and in the homes. I wonder how many of these ppl had insurance... and, if so, does the insurance cover such damage?

The streets in Bahrain aren't equipped to handle so much rain. You get massive flooding like you see here. So many streets were like small little lakes yesterday. It took us about 30 or so mins. to get to work yesterday, whereas it usually takes about 5 mins. I tried going down a street lastnight and it was totally flooded and blocked off. I wound up having to turn around and come back home. I can't imagine living in some of these areas that were heavily flooded. The open land next to our house has a small little lake in it now... but it's nothing in comparison.

Our house was leaking like crazy yesterday morning w/ little ponds forming in some of the bathrooms and in a couple of the rooms. Our garage had a steady stream of water coming down one of the walls. Any day now, I feel like something will happen and our garage will crumble. No, it's not that bad, but I can't get over how poorly things are built here. Our house isn't that old and it leaks like crazy. I can't imagine how it would be if it rained for several days w/out stopping. I think the whole country would collapse. Makes me wonder what ppl were thinking when they planned the streets and what type of ppl built these homes. There are no groups that come and check to be sure you're building properly.... no wonder houses are in such bad shape.

And the roads - they're crazy. Ppl act crazy... honking at you if you don't move fast enough. Lastnight when I was going down this flooded street, I stopped to allow a little tiny car to turn in front of me, and you'd think that I got out of my car and just left it there w/ the way ppl were honking. Plus, I don't take any risks when I'm driving and by myself. I try to be careful, especially in bad weather. Really, there were a few times that I felt like getting out of the truck and saying, "look, I'm pregnant... STOP honking at me and learn to have some patience." But, in all actuality, they wouldn't have cared. These ppl are like crazy idiots.... thank God you're not allowed to have guns here!

Happy Turkey Day!! :)

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone... especially my family back home and all my American friends. Wow, it seems crazy that it's already Thanksgiving. This year has flown by and now the holiday season is upon us and Christmas will be here in no time. If you'll notice the pic, it has two little Indians standing behind the corn stalks. The significance of this is that when the pilgrims landed in America and started living there, it is said that they wanted to show their gratitude to the Indians for all that they had done for them, so they prepared a huge meal for everyone to give thanks. This is where Thanksgiving came from. Sad that the peace couldn't last w/ the Indians!

I've always really liked Thanksgiving. It's a time when you get together with family and friends for large celebrations with lots of food. My mom is such a good cook... I miss her cooking. She makes some of the best food for Thanksgiving. Some of my favorites are homemade cranberry sauce, her cornbread stuffing... ummm, I can imagine it as I sit here... it's just so good, she makes fantastic and interesting salads, the best macaroni casserole w/ lots of cheese and crackers on the top, green beans, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, choc. pie, pumpkin pie.... and don't forget the deviled eggs, altho my younger sister is the best at making these. I think I could sit and eat 4 or 5 of these at one time... they are that good. :) Ooooh... and she makes the best baked beans.. but now that I think about it, she makes those for Christmas dinner.

And let's not forget the turkey. My mom has always prided herself on her turkeys. They are always cooked to perfection. Nice and tender on the inside while being brown and toasty on the out. To smell one of these cooking in the oven on Thanksgiving is so wonderful... it brings back so many memories of spending time w/ my mom when I was a young girl. My sister has it so lucky in that my mom is there w/ her... I'm sure they'll have a big Thanksgiving dinner... and I'll call and get homesick, feel sad... and probably cry from a longing to be there.

I'm at work today. It doesn't feel like Thanksgiving, that's for sure. I think if I were home and cooking, I'd feel more festive. But... I plan to cook tomorrow. We'll run to the store today to get all the things to make for a late lunch.. including the turkey. I found out yesterday that I have gestational diabetes, so I won't be making the pumpkin and apple pies that I had planned for... or if I do, I won't be able to partake... which makes me mad coz I was really looking forward to it. I haven't had pumpkin pie in at least 4 years.... and isn't it my luck that now I can't have it!!! And... I'll have to be careful of the carbs I eat since they break down into sugar once they're consumed.... fun fun fun.

After lunch tomorrow, I want to bring out our Christmas tree and put it up. I'm also gonna go ahead and decorate the house. I can hardly wait. The hubby brought me back a set of 10 CDs from Dubai of old Christmas songs. The ones from Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole... all the good ones... so can't wait to listen to those. I'll have to dig around and find my Elvis CDs... he does some of the best Christmas music. I also have another good CD from the Carpenters... it's really good. I grew up listening to the old Christmas songs like I'll Be Home for Christmas, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, I Saw Momma Kissing Santa Claus, White Christmas, The First Noel... all the old songs. I've never been a fan of the newer stuff.... I guess it depends on what you grew up on.

I'm gonna look thru Amazon today because I wanna order all the old Christmas movies/cartoons that I used to watch on TV. There's nothing like that here, and I just have to have them. I'm not even sure that they have this stuff available, but I hope. I think that it's really great for kids, and since we'll have a little baby of our own soon and also since I'm a kid at heart... well... we have to get them. Some of my favs are Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, The Night Before Christmas, and we can't forget Cristmas Carol w/ Scrooge. Have any of you seen the one w/ Harry Winkler? Aaaah, that is one of the best ones. I loved it. There's also another one that is really old... it's also one of my favorites, but I couldn't tell ya who the actor is that plays in it. He was really old in it, so I'm not even sure that he's still alive.

Anyway... I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Spending time w/ family for the holidays can also be rough on some, and I've had my fair share of times like that as well... and for others, the holidays bring on depression... which I've also experienced. I just hope that all of you have a good few days off work.... and get to rest, relax and enjoy the fall weather back in the States, and if you don't cook at home, then I hope you can go out and have someone cook for you! I guess what I'm saying is... I hope you have peace in your life and find happiness this holiday.... and may you have a good hearty meal that fills your belly. :)

Princess Anne is in da house!!

Royalty has arrived into Bahrain... not the first time and certainly not the last.... but the nice thing about today is that I got to have a peak at the likes of such just a little while ago. My office is situated right next to the front entrance of our main bldg., and it just so happens that all guests come thru the front door and pass right by my window and office door. So... I got a good lookies at the Princess as she made her way into our bldg. "Sooooo", some of you might be saying and I guess it's not that BIG of a deal, but I thought it was pretty exciting. I see dignitaries coming here all the time but none of them interest me... there's just something about English royalty that makes me take notice. I wonder why... but you know, it's been that way since Princess Diana. Did the whole world wake up and take notice then, or is it just me?! I never paid much attention to English royalty before then, but now... I still watch what's happening to her two sons and I even watched when Prince Charles married what's her face.... Camilla.

Surprisingly, she is very normal looking. Don't know what I expected, but she wasn't dressed up or anything. Had on a cream colored dress w/ pink something on it... maybe flowers or some type of small print. It wasn't a real fancy dress - just simple, but yet she looked elegant... maybe that's due to the fact that she's a Princess, you think? She had her hair up in a bun, which I think is the norm for her, and she came across as rather tall. She had on gloves yesterday when she arrived into the country, but I don't remember seeing gloves today.

Anyway... the hubby said I should run up and say hello... tell her that I'm a Princess from the West... I laughed... can you imagine?!! They're sitting in the formal room right next to me... I can hear someone in the hall clipping their nails w/ clippers!!!!! Now... why are they standing out in the hall cutting their nails at a time like this?? Some men... they have no class! I have to laugh though... I wonder if they realize how loud it sounds?!!

Well, she wasn't here for long. They were prob here for a total of 20 mins.... what's weird is when you walk past the meeting room, everyone will be sitting around on the sofas in a huge half circle... but NO ONE talks. What's up w/ that? Why do ppl just sit, smile and have their pictures taken, but have no real form of communication. Ok... maybe it's formality and there was some talking.... maybe, hopefully there was. There were women in there this time... so... you know there had to be talking! I know they're all gabbing and laughing rather loudly right now... only wish I understood it!

10 weird things about me

I've been tagged by Munther from Drivel of 2 Modern Bahrainis to list 10 weird things about myself... so here goes. Oh yeah, you can find his list on his site - which, after reading his list, aren't things I'd consider weird at all. :)

1. I don't like talking on the telephone, except to my family. If it's someone new that I don't really know, I'll usually try to send an email instead. And even after communicating thru email, I find it extremely difficult to talk to them on the telephone.

2. I'm very particular about the way toilet paper is put on the roll. I find it to be much easier if the paper is facing to the front instead of coming from the back. ;) So, if someone puts it on that way, I will always change it.

3. I live in my head all the time and ppl have called me weird for it. Meaning => I can sit and just stare into space w/ ppl thinking that I'm not concentrating or such, but in all actuality, my mind travels a mile a minute and I'm not only thinking, but I'm planning, organizing, daydreaming, imagining, going over things that have happened.... all sorts of things. Used to, ppl would snap their fingers in front of my face and I've even had a few ppl tell me, "wake up"... but what they don't know is that I'm concentrating more than they could imagine.

4. I can have 5 or more conversations going on at one time and tend to leave many ppl in the dark because of this. There are very few that can keep up... which I guess can be an annoyance.

5. I can also talk really fast, altho I really try not to in this part of the world, and used to be criticized for it.... now ppl just think I'm weird.

6. I used to drink Pepsi and milk together. It's actually not bad... but I haven't in ... I don't know how long. ;) It was a Laverne and Shirley thing.

7. I believe in aliens.

8. I believe in life after death.

9. I also somewhat believe that if we don't succeed in what we are meant to do on earth during our life here, we will be born again and have to keep repeating it until we get it right.

10. I strongly believe in karma. What goes around, comes around. You do something bad to someone and you'll get it back 10 fold.... one way or another. Perfect example => Anna Nicole Smith. Yeah, some of you may think me mean for saying it, but I truly believe she's getting what she deserves.

ok... this is my list. I tag Alfanan, Puppy, Olivia, One Wink and whoever else would like to play along... just let me know so that I can read your lists! :)

drip drip drop little April shower!!

Ok, It's not April but you'd think it was by the way it's raining in Bahrain!!!! The rains have finally come and I'm just thrilled. I LOVE THE RAIN!!! I wish I could go outside and run around in it, acting like the little girl that I am, but you know, everyone would think me a nut... ok, I am a nut, but don't tell anyone! ;)

Seriously, it's so dark outside and it's pouring down. It has been sooooo long since the rains have been here. The weather is cool, there's a nice breeze blowing that's makes me a rather chilly. I have my window open and can hear it... now, I wish it would thunder and lightening. They said on the weather report this morn. that it was going to rain and we'd have thunder, but I've heard nothing thus far.

Gosh, I wish I was home. I'd love to have a good book, a nice cup of decaf, while sitting on the porch listening to this beautiful rain. What is it about rain that makes me feel so happy inside? A lot of ppl get depressed w/ the rain. I know my mother hates it. She says it makes her feel depressed... but not me. I've never minded getting wet in the rain... while some ppl run into the store or into the house, I walk as slow as possible. I can remember being in London years back w/ the hubby and it was raining. We walked around outside for hours getting soaked... it was so wonderful.

My MIL loves the rain like I do. Last year, when the rains came, I went to her house and we went outside and ran around like school girls, laughing and getting wet. I sit and think about her now and wonder if she's loving it as much as me. She collects the rainfall in plastic things and keeps it... not every time it rains but the first rainfall of the season. If I'm not mistaken, I think she uses it for something in particular - some type of tradition - or even drinks it. Maybe she doesn't drink it... but I can't remember. It's all for good luck and such though. I like that tradition.

Well.. now it has slowed down quite a bit and it's only drizzling now... :( It sure was nice while it lasted. Maybe I'll be lucky enough to get soaked when I get home... maybe it'll rain like crazy all day today.

Happy day everyone.

Oh yeah.. the hubby is in Dubai so he's missing this. I think it's hot there.... I'm sure he'd love to see the rain... hopefully, if we're lucky, it'll continue for the next week or so.

Casino Royale

We saw this pic lastnight. Wow... what a good movie. I'm a huge James Bond fan and although I was a little disappointed when they decided to go w/ the new guy - Daniel Craig - because I liked Pearce Brosnan as James Bond and I wasn't quite sure if I'd like the new movie or what, but decided to go in w/ an open mind and give it a chance, and, boy, was I pleased.

He's really good as James Bond! I'd say he reminds me of Sean Connery but he's much better. There's something about this Daniel Craig. Is it his ice blue eyes? Blonde hair? Bathing suit scenes?? hmmmmm... I'll let you be the judge because w/ all honesty, it wasn't that stuff that made him sooooo good in my opinion. Yeah, he isn't hard on the eyes, but he's also a good actor. I'm not sure that I've ever seen him before in a movie. Is he mainly a British actor? I don't know, but I can't wait for the next movie... that IS for sure.

There's something about this guy that makes him the perfect fit, and I would have NEVER thunk it!! He pulls you in.... his attitude is different from the others..... there's a seriousness about him that the others didn't pull off. So for all of you out there screaming and yelling cuz Pearce no longer has the role... well, take my word for it and see the movie! It's delicious!

I didn't see the first Casino Royale from years back, so can't say for sure how it compares to the new one, but this movie had a great story line. It had a lot of action but wasn't over the top like the last two movies. The last James Bond movie didn't really sit well w/ me, but this one.... well, it proved to me that Pearce wasn't the right man for the job. This one took you from the edge of your seat one minute to a relaxed story line the next. It was full of surprises and every time I thought it was about to end, it started moving so fast that I wasn't sure if being pregnant and sitting thru this movie was such a good idea.

All the other actors in the movie were also really good. The bad guy played by Mads Mikkelsen was cool and relaxed. He had a bad guy confidence that I like to see. I like actors that can carry off really good bad guys and he did it well, I think. I've never seen this guy before either, so not sure what film credits he has to his name. James' big love interest was played by Eva Green as Vesper Lynd. I liked her in the role. She wasn't over the top like some have been in the past.... and I'd love to give you more details about her character and such, but I won't. The other short-lived, one night stand love interest was played by Caterina Murino. Loved her accent and both women were absolutely gorgeous.... couldn't ask for better girls to go along w/ James Bond.

I won't give any spoilers for it but I'd love to hear if you've seen it and what you thought. If you haven't seen it and like these type of movies, by all means, SEE IT!!!

what's up today and this past weekend

For the last week our office has been under construction. They're repairing bathrooms and the main hall for meetings and such. The fumes have been horrible. Yesterday I decided to stay home, day before I went home at about 10:30 a.m. and today I'm thinking of just taking some vacation until all the work is done. It's just not healthy to breathe this crap in, and since I don't have a choice when getting up to go to the bathroom and such, I'd rather just go home.

Tonight I start my exercise class... I'm excited. My back is killing me and I hope I get some great tips on how to stretch it out or even pop it.... that, I think, would feel just fabulous. My tail bone is also killing me... it's weird the things that hurt... things you wouldn't imagine. I know that the hips move and such, so I'm assuming that's why it's hurting the way it is... but let me tell ya, it's not pleasurable.

Friday night we went to a BBQ. It was the first time in meeting everyone at the party, except for the hosts. I so enjoyed it. Everyone there - except the hosts - were expats married to Bahrainis. There were three British women and one Indian woman. They were sooooo nice. I've never really talked to British women before. My hairdresser is British and I post on some blogs of British women, but I've never had one-on-one chats.... and I loved it. They were nice. Different and better than I expected. We've been to the British Club a few times and the Brits weren't very open and accepting - sorta clickish, so I imagined it to be the same, but it was nothing like that. And the hubby got along nicely w/ their husbands, so it was a nice time all around.

It was good to meet women that have the same issues as me (as an expat married to a Bahraini man), same or similar probs w/ in-laws, and all of them had children, so we were able to discuss so many topics relevant to that.... it was a little slice of heaven. They gave me great advice, told me some secrets on what to expect and such after having kids, as well as how differently ppl treat you after having children in this part of the world.

We also discussed the whole issue of what language to teach the child. I had been leaning towards only teaching English at first for the mere fact that it's my native tongue and since I'm the mother, but they all disagreed. One lady had done precisely that and regretted it. Now, her two sons were having major probs w/ Arabic in school and she's had to send them off for private lessons and whatnot so that they could catch up. So... now, I'm reconsidering all of it and we're thinking that I'll speak English and the hubby will teach the baby Arabic. Plus, what a great way for me to really pick up the language. I know some Arabic... or I should say that I know LOTS of words, but I can't really speak in full sentences... so this will be a great way for me to learn it as well. I had wondered if two languages would only confuse the child but all of them said no. One of the ladies there said that her little girl now uses Arabic as her first language, interestingly enough.

We also talked about schooling and how it can be for kids of American, British or Indian mothers that are married to Bahrainis. They are treated badly in school, depending on where they go, for the mere fact that their mothers are different and this is something that I don't want. Most agreed that it's the public school system that has this problem, altho some have had the problem in private schools. I think a lot of it depends on the name you give the child, what they look like and if they know Arabic. So teaching Arabic will be key, I realize this now. It was nice to see their kids... what they looked like. Sorta gave me a feeling of what our child will look like. Isn't it sad how mean/cruel kids can be. I had my own issues in school from bullies and such, but I can't imagine being picked on, teased and tormented over the fact that your mom is American, British or something different. It's hard enough in school w/ peer pressure and just wanting to be accepted but to add on this... well, I just hope when the time comes that we pick a good school that doesn't have all of these problems. But really, is there any way to escape it? I doubt it.

Gosh, it was just so nice to meet others like myself and to have ppl to talk to. We had a really good time. Oh yeah... and GREAT food. They fixed bbq kebabs, lamb chops, grilled chicken and beef sausages - which were heavenly, and some spicy rice w/ all sorts of things in it, green chilis stuffed w/ pineapple, grilled cheese, salads, garlic bread, and some of the best desserts. I had this divine choc. cake... and I ate every last drop of it! :) I love me some choc. cake, that's for sure. I crave sweets now that I'm pregnant... prob why I've gained so much weight... you think??! :)

But at least I have the exercise class tonight. I hope it'll stretch me out and help me to sleep better. I used to be the drill sergeant that would push my husband when we went out walking/running and such, but not any more. We walked the other night and I wound up laughing at myself. I guess we walked for about 20 mins or so and by the time we were on our way back, I was having to hold my back and wobble like the child was gonna pop out at any moment. Not that I had overdone anything because I now walk at a snail's pace... but it's just funny to see me like this - in seeing the way I use to be - so driven and everything w/ exercise. Now I get tired really fast, my hips start killing me and I can only last for prob 30 mins.... nothing longer. It's weird how your body changes.