So today while I was in a book club meeting, it occurred to me that I need to chronicle my time here in Saudi a little better. I've gotten so used to life here that it seems very common, but I think that sharing my perspective with family and friends could possibly be of value to someone, somewhere...maybe.
Today there is news about the shakeup in the government regarding a woman put in the position of Deputy Minister of Education - specifically over woman's education. That is huge...first woman in a ministry position. I know several people that think the Saudis are behind the times, but for a country that is still under 100 years old, this is progress. Good for you, King Abdullah! The King also let the head of the Muttawa go - in favor of someone who might be a little less "iron-fisted." Maybe next year red roses will be allowed during February. :)
Life here is both interesting - I can sit down to a luncheon with 10 women all of different nationalities and different points of view, as well as tedious...I hate having to hire a driver to go to the neighboring compound just around the corner. I also have to ride a bus to do the grocery shopping (or any shopping) and everything closes several times a day for prayer...ugh! Last Wednesday, I had to run all over between two neighboring malls trying to get what I needed in the 2 hours we were at the mall. What a workout! The only positive part of this is that it forces me to organize myself and plan out my shopping for the month when the bus schedule comes out. Monday - IKEA, Tuesday - Tamimi (Safeway), etc.
While it's not illegal to BE a Christian here, it is illegal to go to church. I miss that... a lot. We have friends who we visit with though who are also Christian and we keep each other company. I guess that will have to do for now. There's something about sharing a culture and religion here that causes us to become a tighter knit community. I went to the quilt guild for the first time last night and I knew almost half the women there from one place or another.
Well, Elijah has run out of patience with me on the computer but at least I got something written. My goal is to write every few days about something different...the weather (DUSTY), golf, compound life, trips...just life in general here in the Saudi Sandbox. Living here has given me patience and perspective and I am very grateful for that. I hope it comes across as I continue to write, although I know some days I may share more of my frustrations than my growth.
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It's a miracle! I'm so excited cuz I check this blog all the time and never see any chronicaling going on! Yes, record what life is like over on the other side of the world for the rest of us that are stuck in the U.S.! ;) Besides since the Saudi Boot keeps us from chatting as much as we'd like, this way I can keep up on what you're up to these days even if I don't get to hear it via I.M. Next best thing :) Love you lots and lots!
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