Adventures in the Middle East: Holidays in Jeddah

I have not posted on my blog for awhile because a lot of the things I would love to tell about are things I should not post due to security reasons. Just know that my Father has blessed me with a fellowship of like-minded individuals that have become my family. Another teacher and I found this group of people on Thanksgiving, which was perfect timing! We were able to have a nice turkey lunch with them and have been meeting with them regularly. The group is made up of individuals from all over the world: South Africa, Australia, the U.K., Kenya, India, Canada, U.S.A., etc. It is a blessing to gather with these people who are so diverse in their ethnicities, but unified in their love for our Father!

Another exciting thing that happened this past month was that my mom came to visit for a week after Christmas (after a month-long hassle to get her visa!). A bunch of the teachers got together for the actual holiday to have a nice dinner and exchange gifts. Then, my mom came late the next day and was able to meet my friends and students. She now has a first hand experience of what I deal with every day with my rambunctious six-year-olds, as she came and helped me in my classroom for two days. They were actually on their best behavior for her, and they were still crazy! I also took her shopping at the largest souq (an outdoor market) to get a real cultural experience. We bargained for gifts and souvenirs that she took back to the States with her. Finally, we relaxed by the pool and went snorkeling in the Red Sea. I'm supposed to be going snorkeling again on my birthday, so I will finally be able to try out the underwater housing that I recently got for my camera.

Report cards are due in 3 days, so I will be busy with that. I will try to post again within the next couple of weeks to show you how my underwater pictures turned out...if they turn out. Meanwhile, here are a few pics of how I spent my holidays in Jeddah: