Qasr al Hosn..Finally!

I just couldn't stay away any longer.  On a spur of the moment decision I bought a ticket for Abu Dhabi last Thursday and flew over to see Russell and Talitha.  They headed to AD from Dubai and I met them there early Friday morning. And I mean early.  I landed at 6 am which meant i was at the Doha airport by 4 am. So out the door by 3:30...you get the picture. But it was worth it! We talked about the wedding, ate breakfast at a favorite place, Mugg and Bean(coincidentally a South African chain) , took naps and then headed to this new festival in downtown Abu Dhabi. Qasr al Hosn Festival which centers around the Qasr al Hosn or Palace Fort. I have wanted for years to get in there. It's a fort that sits in the middle of the city and until this year it has been closed to the public.  The watchtower, the first structure, was built in 1761 to protect the freshwater well discovered in Abu Dhabi. In 1793 the ruling Sheikh expanded it into a small fort and residence with further additions in the 1930s.  The Fort was the seat of government in Abu Dhabi until 1966. For five years I drove by it, just itching to get in.  In spite of the sandstorm blowing across the entire Gulf Region, the three of us headed out and my wish was finally granted! They are doing a great job restoring it and preserving it. It was fun to see it with the kids. :)

Flying February

After our return from Russell and Talitha's wedding and Tom and Bonnie's departure,  the fog rolled into Doha.. It  much reflected what I was feeling. The wedding week was so much fun. Having  friends here for a couple of extra days afterwards,  was icing on the cake. They left, the fog rolled in, and I walked around like Winnie the Pooh's buddy Eeyore.

That's me, on the right. 

We are back into our routine now. School-Robert, Work-Mike,  teaching English-Me, which by the way, I am really enjoying. I have had some wonderful Qatari students this year and a fun lady from Spain. Yes, sometimes we slip into Spanish. :)  .

The days are flying by. Summer plans to be made. Flights, dates, locations. I can't believe it is already February.  In March we are taking a quick trip to Bahrain with Jeff and Mary Kenney to visit a friend there. Last time I was there with Mary was during their Arab Spring Uprising. Mike hasn't been so it will be fun to go together. Robert is preparing for the Youth Group's spring break trip to Nepal. Sallie gave him tips over Christmas... :) I'm excited he gets to go.

Off to teach!
Happy Valentine's Day!



   

This region can really get into decorating.