Adams Adventures

Best Ever Steak----Indoor Cooking

2010-04-10T22:35:00.000-07:00

Bill and I love steak. Here we only have a gas grill and when it is so dusty you are afraid you will have dust for a seasoning!!!!! I have been trying to find a good way to cook it indoors. Well, I have finally found it!
I found this in my Pineapple Days & Bread Pudding Nights cookbook. We love it well not as good as a grilled steak over charcoal but best we have found for indoors!

1 inch thick steaks ----mine are maybe a little thicker for Bill
salt and pepper for seasoning
black cast iron skillet---I have one that has the ridges in the bottom that I use but have used plain bottom also.

Preheat over to 550F or high as it will go

Place skillet on stove over high heat.

Trim steaks to remove gristle
Season each side liberally with salt and pepper

Quote from cookbook----
"Do not worry about the salt. This is what gives the steak a wonderful brown crust. As I teach in my cooking class---sure the salt will dry the steak out---after about 3 or 4 days."

You can test the temperature of the skillet by dragging a steak across it. If the steak catches and sticks, it is not hot enough.
When the skillet starts to wisp, smoke, place the steaks in the skillet

Reduce heat to medium high.
DO NOT TOUCH OR MOVE STEAKS FOR THE NEXT THREE MINUTES!!!!!
after three minutes, turn steaks and immediately place in oven.

Leave in oven for :

3 to 4 minutes ------medium rare
4 to 5 minutes-------medium
5 to 7 minutes-------medium well
forget about it-------well done

Also remember oven time will vary due to thickness of steak.

I leave Bill's only about 2 minutes!!!!!!!

Cheers!!!!!!

Thirty Three Years of Marriage

2010-04-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

Bill and I have been married thirty-three years on 31st of March. We went to a restaurant that was recommended to us by some friends. It is a Japanese restaurant and is close to our house. It was so perfect! Undoubtably the most romantic anniversary we have ever had! The restaurant is surrounded by a moat with lighted palms all around it. We were seated at a table in front of doors that were open to the moat with a beautiful view. It was like sitting outside but with the comforts of air-conditioning! We tried lobster ceviche that we both loved.

You all know that Bill got a bull for his present but I got a Bottega Bag!!!!!

Bill actually went shopping on his own. He knew they sold these in the Moda Mall (Thanks Ryan) and he went looking. He said he never knew there were so many stores that sold handbags!!!!! Boy does he have a lot to learn. He came in telling me that is is deer skin and will only get softer with use. I love it!
He also got me flowers!

Oh I got him the teak cart to replace the one we left in India-----

Cheers!

2010-04-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

Rivers 5th Birthday

Jessi sent me pictures of Rivers and Brinkly at "his party".

Neither one looks excited.

But they did get a steak and porkchop supper!!!!!
Thanks Brendon and Jessi!

My Youngest Son

2010-03-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

Today is my youngest son's birthday!!!!!!!
Here is his first picture:

And here are some of his most recent ones:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RIVERS!!!!!!!

Bill Sense of Humor!!!!!!

2010-03-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

We have our 33rd Wedding Anniversary coming up Wednesday. Gosh how time flies when you are having fun!!!
He sent the boys this email this morning after I purchased his gift last night:

Boys,

Do yall know what you get for an anniversary present when you have been married for 33 years?

A Lot of Bull!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We are starting a cattle farm to have when we retire!!!! Thanks boys for all the help!

Cheers!

2010-03-26T22:23:00.000-07:00

Bill made it home last night around 17:00. We waited for our call (from someone very special---Matt) and then we went to the Country Club for dinner. We always get the same thing to eat so tonight we both decided to eat something different but you know me at the last minute I reverted to one of my favorites!
This morning the sky really looks like RAIN---if fact I just noticed that is is raining! I love the rain. I just wish it rained more here. The only thing that I do not like about the rain here is the driving. People are so careless here but when it does rain they are worst because the don't seem to understand the oil on the road and water! I have to get out in a little while but I am sure that it will be finished raining before I go.
I wish Bill were off today ----Carlos Santana and Elton John are playing in Dubai and boy would I love to see both of them. They are at the same venue to it could be done. Bill would like Santana but I am not sure he would like Elton!

got to run
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road...........

2010-03-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

Today makes one year we have lived in Bahrain!
We arrived here last year from Singapore around 21:00.
We were going to celebrate tonight but again I am alone on the weekend.
This make three weekends in a row!!!!!!
We intended to make up for it next weekend----it will be our 33rd wedding anniversary.
We have been told about a Japanese restaurant near the Ritz that is supposed to be better than Sato's which we love. If it is better, we will be going there more often as the drive to Sato's is not always fun!

My "places" are still not looking too good but hopefully I will get out some tomorrow.

I am getting excited----baseball season is just around the corner. I have now kept up with my Astros like I did when I was in the USA but last year after we moved into the house we found baseball on the tv more so than we did in India. Guess I will have to learn the players as most of my favorites have retired.

Going to walk the compound in a few minutes but about stir crazy sitting in the house. Maybe I won't get to hot!
Cheers!

Vacation 2010

2010-03-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

Yipeee!!!!!!!!!

We are official! Our vacation will be from 24 November until December 30!!!!!
This means Thanksgiving and Christmas at home this year!!!!
We won't be home for New Years but really am glad we get the two holidays we do!
I don't think I will feel like cooking but who knows!!!!!!!!

2010-03-22T02:55:00.000-07:00

Guess you are wondering why I am posting so many times today (this is #4). I had some pre-cancerous spots on my body froze off last Thursday. I went to the doctor and he said about 4 or 5 places needed to be removed. I went the next day and and he froze 19 or 20 places. He said some of them were cosmetic and why not do them while he was freezing. The places are not pretty so I am staying in and being bored!

I did not win the hummer but now another store is giving away Lincoln Navigators. Cross your fingers!!!!

To all the chefs out there I have added a cook it widget on my blog. It is real neat! Simply type the ingredients you have on hand and it will give you recipes to try!!!!!

Formula One in Bahrain

2010-03-22T01:10:00.000-07:00

Last week was the Formula One in Bahrain. Bill and I had a chance to meet some of the drivers!

Getting ready to race!

Brendon in the lead!

Bill and the drivers after the race!

By now you know I was joking but we enjoyed the Formula One race track for karts in November, 2009!

RUGS

2010-03-22T00:20:00.000-07:00

I have fallen in love with carpets!!!!!!
When we were in Singapore we purchased some beautiful rugs. Bill was not real happy about the cost but he was the one saying "Buy it" "Buy IT!"

Well, one story I like to tell about rug shopping was when we were in Chennai, India. Bill and I went into a "department" store. We were looking at the carpets and saw a beautiful one on the wall. It was a 10x15 and had beautiful shades of blue and green with some pink and beige. The salesman noticed we liked it so he took it down and rolled it on the floor. He insisted that we walk on it. Of course me, I take my shoes off and start to walk on it. I take a couple of steps and Bill behind me starts saying----"GET OFF OF IT". I turn around and he has looked at the price----18,000 USD!!!!!
I immediately get off and the salesman says wait wait you can have for half off!!!!! I am sure if we had really wanted the rug we could have had it for another half off but at that time we were "new" carpet shoppers!!!!!!!
I have really gotten into the shopping now. I have a "favorite" rug store here. They recognise me and can remember all the rugs I have purchased and usually who they are for!!!! I took Ryan and Rachel there while they were here. When we walked in the door, Ryan spotted one of the wall that he liked! It was very pretty and was from Iran. It was a dome pattern---

Rachel got this one:

Now rug shopping has become even easier! There is a man that comes into the compound with rugs in his van. I like some of his rugs but I still really like my store.
Here is a couple that we have bought from him

Bill bought this one for Matt:

Bill bought this one for in front of a desk???????

Here is one I bought in the mall for Matt's room:

It is not a carpet but a fun rug for his room.

2010-03-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

I am so bad about blogging! I thought that I would do it daily or even bi-weekly but lately it has been MONTHLY!!!!!
Where do I start----
Ryan and Rachel came for a week the end of February. One week is really not enough-you don't get over the jet lag until it is time to leave!

We had a great time and ate at some great places.

Trader Vic's-------food not great but atmosphere and drinks are wonderful!!!!!

The Country Club Brennigan's------the food and atmosphere is great! Not a good selection of cocktails!

While I am on Brennigan's Take a look at this

This is one of our fun nights at Brennigan's while Jessi and Bren were here!

This is the service window at Lanterns------This is the first place Bill and I ate when we arrived here in Bahrain. It is an Indian restaurant---just what we were in the mood for---NOT!

I made my first visit to The Gold City. It was interesting.
I have entered into a new relationship!!!!! Ha that is what the guy told us we are not his customers but we now have a relationship with him. He was a nice guy and Ryan did get some pretty cufflinks.

2010-02-24T19:35:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went shopping not really looking for anything but found some Tyler candles so I bought some of them. The store had a promotion if you spend at least 15BD then you could play a game to win prizes. It was a match game. I had one try and was not really interested but if you played you also got the chances on a new Hummer!!!!! Well I won a vacuum cleaner!! Now if I just can win the Hummer!

I changed the settings on my car to US settings----meaning to read temperatures in F instead of C and Miles instead of kilometers. Well, I have had my car ten months tomorrow and only have 3356 miles on it. At home I would probably have that in 2 months. It sure makes a difference that the stores are very close and I don't have to go far for almost everything.

I made corn and crab bisque from my Southern Palates. I love that cookbook. Mine is getting worn out.

Note to my family----my black dress did not disappear from the earth. Please try to find it!!!!! Wherever it might be :)

2010-02-22T22:43:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since my last post but not much to blog about! I have just doing my normal things. Yesterday I went for a haircut and of course I was running late so I went through the village to get to the Ritz. Well it was my first time to see tires actually burning in the road. I have seen then after the fact with the police already there but this time is different. I was already past the village and on a road that curves around and traffic came to a stand still --I was about five cars back but could not see the problem but could see there were bricks all in the road like a truck had lost some of it's load. The road was too narrow to turn around and several cars were behind me so I just waited. I could see men getting out of cars and removing shovels from their trunks---again I think it is the bricks. Traffic begins to move and when I round the curve I see several tires and a box or couch in the middle of the road and the men are trying to get it where we can pass-----ok done that don't need to do again.

I know that I have talked to some of you about the bathrooms here. This is in the ladies bathroom at the Ritz------

Not only does it clean but the seats are heated!!!!!!
The first time I saw this I was with a friend and she heard me laughing and said don't even try it!!!!!
Too funny.

For Valentines Bill and I received this:

And yes he is his father's son!!!!!

They had another snow day in Mississippi 6 inches in Brookhaven-----guess the global warming thing is fixed! Here are a few of the pictures we received:

I am ready to go out but my Daddy is being slow!!!!

Not sure if I like it but I was sleepy by the time Daddy was ready!

I am ready and LOVE IT!!!!

Please let me back in the WARM house!!!

We Love it too!

Brendon must have been throwing snowballs at him but I am sure he LOVED IT!!!

Rachel was in DC and this is her picture. They got 18 inches of snow.

2010-02-07T19:42:00.001-08:00

SAINTS WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Worth getting up at 1:50 am to watch!

WHO DAT DAY!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-07T06:21:00.000-08:00

WHO DAT SONG

Rachel sent this to me yesterday----Love it

Today is Super Bowl Sunday in the USA. Bill and I are going to try to watch. Being Saints fans for YEARS and this being their first time to go we have to try. So as you guys are enjoying dips, wings and all the normal Super Bowl fare think of us watching eating breakfast casserole and orange juice! I might have some cheese and ham but at 2:30 am -----don't think we want the normal things!
Geaux Saints!!!!!!!!

Bill has made a decision!

2010-01-29T21:15:00.000-08:00

He is going to quit smoking! Matt is the reason. What a wonderful reason to quit. Remember him and let's encourage this!

Cheers!

2010-01-27T03:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the first sand storm of the year. Hey we made it 26 days before we had one. The wind was very strong and the skies were very dusty.

2010-01-24T19:54:00.000-08:00

WHO DAT!!!!!

Having heard this all my life------Hell might freeze over!

Truly got to love the Saints!

2010-01-24T01:25:00.000-08:00

I am truly amazed at what Oil Pulling can do for sinus problems. I have been so stuffy since returning and decided to Oil Pull this morning. I can breathe!!!!!!!!!

Yesterday was my new daughter-in-law's birthday------Happy Birthday Jessi. Wishing you many more.

2010-01-22T08:22:00.001-08:00

Bill and I went to the Country Club tonight for dinner. We were so surprised that all the staff came over and welcomed us back and said they had been missing us. Guess you never know.
Cheers!

2010-01-19T09:17:00.000-08:00

Gosh I guess I am a grandma........ My 5 year old neighbor, Arianne, came and read to me today!!!!!

We are Back

2010-01-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

One day while at home, Juliana caught me rocking Matt. Of course, I had to read to him to get to rock him (HAHAHA). I took out the book I read all the boys when they were growing up. Richard Scary's Best Mother Goose-----
I sent an email when we got back referring to a Nursery Rhyme.

To market to market to buy a fat pig
Home Again, Home Again jiggity jig
To Market to Market to buy a fat hog
Home Again, Home Again jiggity jog

2010-01-06T19:42:00.000-08:00

Last night I got a phone call from one of my very good friends I made in Ahmedabad. They are having great sadness in their family. I am so worried about her and the family. One thing I have learned------good friends come into out lives unexpected but stay for a life time.

Adams Family Minus Nicholas

2010-01-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

We sure missed Nicholas at the wedding. We did include my Mom and Dad. Beautiful Family don't you think?
The wedding was beautiful. We did enjoy the day very much. The newlyweds are in Jamaica for a week and loving life.
Bill and I enjoyed a couple of days in Birmingham with Ryan and Rachel. We dined at Highland Grill while there and it was wonderful!!!! Good food and good company. We even were joined by a "Fancy Kitty". HA

2009-12-27T05:30:00.000-08:00

December

12 Ryan and Rachel engaged!
15 We arrive in the USA
22 Rehearsal Dinner
23 Brendon Handy man shower
   Ryan comes home!
24 Christmas Eve with the family at Chet's
25 Christmas with Acy's
   Rachel arrives
26 Brendon and Jessi wedding
27 DAY OF REST
28 Birmingham with Ryan and Rachel
30 Nicholas comes home!!!
   Home from Birmingham
31 New Year's eve in Mississippi

Our life in December 2009
The Adams Family is growing by leaps and bounds. We are loving it!

2009-12-20T08:27:00.000-08:00

Bill finally got to meet Matt on December 15, 2009. Matt was three months old. Bill could not be any prouder at this moment.

We have alot going on this month. We are so happy.

Brendon and Jessi will be getting married on Boxing Day.

Ryan and Rachel became engaged on 12 of December-----waiting on pictures.

Bill and I are so blessed to have our three sons ( and our girls ) happy and successful in their lives and careers! Matt is just the beginning of little Adams I am sure!!!!!

Matt's Christmas stocking for Quiser and Pappaw's house. Training him right with little Bully!

2009-12-07T22:50:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Holidays! This year I am in the Christmas Spirit.

This is my wreath from India. It was made by Arun from Banya Tree roots.

Our stocking are hung by the Staircase with care!

Greeters!

Santa for my collection.

Christmas Tree with Santa

Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus carved from wood.

Another Santa.

Our Den.

Kitchen

Kitchen table

Guest Bath

Thanks Bren and Jessi for the hand towels!

First time in Almost Nine Months-----NO DUST

2009-12-07T21:58:00.000-08:00

For most people this doesn't look abnormal, but here in Bahrain this is the first time since we arrived in March that everything has not been covered in dust. These pictures were taken at almost 9:00 in the morning. This is the second full day of rain. I am loving it.

We are Having a Thunderstorm!

2009-12-06T12:23:00.003-08:00

It is really raining here. Can't wait until the morning to see if the dust is off the trees.

2009-12-04T22:50:00.001-08:00

Just talked to Brendon------three inches of snow in Southwest Mississippi. He says Rivers is loving it and Brinkly HATES it.

WInter In Bahrain

2009-12-04T06:24:00.000-08:00

Well, today I certainly feel like it is winter. It has been very cloudy all day-----no sunshine. It is only 73 degrees at 16:30. It looks like it will pour and be a "real" Mississippi winter storm. I am trying to prepare myself for the near vacation in Brookhaven. I hear it might snow up to 4 inches there tonight. Yikes. It snowed last year and if it snows this year I will have missed all the snow!

While Brendon and Jessi were here we visited the Tree of Life. I was not exactly what I expected but it was an adventure and something to see.

Brendon and Jessi

2009-11-28T01:13:00.000-08:00

Brendon and Jessica on the Beach in Bahrain!!!!!

We had a great visit hate to see them leave today!!!!! Jessi and I just really got into shopping!

Elephants

2009-11-12T23:00:00.000-08:00

I saw these lamps right after I arrived in Bahrain. I liked them but put off buying and not like most things when I went back to the store they had been reduced. Yeah!!!! I like them.

Of course back in the US I will have to have them rewired. Sounds like a project for Bill coming up.

Cheers!

"The Swamp"

2009-11-12T21:01:00.001-08:00

I have been looking for an arrangement for my dining room. I have looked several places but they were all too expensive so I decided to make one. I love orchids and sparkles. I saw one similar to this and it was around 250 BD (663 USD) yikes. I looked around until I could find similar items at lower cost. I do have a pretty penny in it but anywhere close to 250 BD.

Bill calls it "The Swamp" you all know his way of naming things.

Orchids are Blooming

2009-11-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get my orchids to bloom again. When I returned from Matt's arrival there were buds on this one. Day before yesterday this bloom opened.

I have them in the dining room window where they get lots of light.

O forget to tell you Guess who is Due in Two Months

2009-11-11T22:45:00.000-08:00

SANTA

and Matt is ready!!!!!!

Still has the blue eyes!

Matt's First Halloween

2009-11-11T22:37:00.001-08:00

Matt started the day out as a cute pumpkin.

Then switched to a cowardly lion from the Wizard of OZ.

So cute. His other grandmother made his lion outfit. She is very talented.

Hey he still has blue eyes!!!!!

2009-10-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

Matt's pictures. Juliana had a wonderful young lady photographer come to our house and take pictures of him. She is fantastic. Her name is Lindey Magee. We would highly recommend her to anyone!!!!!!!!!!

Isn't he beautiful????? Are they not a lovely family???????

2009-09-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Matt loves his cap!!!!!!

Life Lesson

2009-09-17T20:42:00.001-07:00

The only thing in life worth stealing is a kiss from a sleeping baby~~~~~~

2009-09-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

Matt update-----isn't he grand?

Wallace Matthews Adams

2009-09-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

Sleeping peacefully!!!!
Little Bulldog!!!!!
Just love him!!!
Best kisses!!!!

Wallace Matthews Adams arrived today at 12:07. He weighted 8 lbs 9 ozs. and was 19 3/4 inches long.

People are correct nothing better than a grandchild.

Cheers!!!!!!!

2009-09-13T07:33:00.000-07:00

Still waiting on AA----they are stubborn like their father. Yesterday was AA's due date. Nicholas was exactly one week late. Juliana goes back to the doctor Tuesday ---if we don't go before. I bought a girl camouflage and and a boy camouflage outfit yesterday. I ask Juliana to wash both and we can give the one we don't need away.

Loving being here with my kids but really miss my husband.

Promise to keep you updated.

Cheers!!!

Waiting

2009-09-09T05:54:00.001-07:00

Hey, as most of you know I am in good old Mississippi, waiting on AA to make its appearance. I am really getting excited. I have already done most of my shopping to take back with me and will be packing the suitcases today or tomorrow. I don't want to spend time worrying about that when AA gets here.

I am thoroughly enjoying the weather here. I have not had a chance to get out by the pool for pleasure purpose yet but I am enjoying drinking my coffee and with the wonders of wireless internet (something I never thought we would have here) checking my email relaxing on the porch in the mornings by the pool.

I have seen almost all my family and really enjoyed catching up with them. I really miss all the "drama" of the Acy's. HA

I have not slowed down since I arrived though. I have met the future daughter-in-law, had a couple of doctor visits, bought Ryan a new vehicle, had a labor day BBQ, met the new in-laws, and SHOPPED!!!!!!!!

Many things have changed since I was here in January and I like getting out and checking things out in Ole Brook. One of my favorite stores is going out of business so I am glad I have been here to shop there on their last days. I have seen people I have not seen in 3 or more years ----just not enough time to visit.

I am planning a day with my best friend Becky. I really miss her and can't wait to spend some time with her.

AFTER 7 MONTHS BABY ARRIVES

2009-08-18T00:54:00.000-07:00

Bet you were thinking AA----not this is our "baby".

Bill came home early yesterday so that we could cook a tenderloin for Ryan to have when we got here. His flight was to arrive at 20:05 so we needed to leave for the airport around 18:30 due to traffic. We were sitting in the kitchen and decided to check online for his flight information. He had arrived in Doha ahead of time so we were looking at his flight here to be sure. We found that his flight had been cancelled. I called the airlines to check and they rebooked him on a later flight to arrive at 21:45. We went out to the airport around 20:30 and waited--------at 21:35 said it was delayed about 9 minutes. At 22:00 finally said arrived. We waited and waited around 22:40 we were getting worried that something was wrong. Bill had gone across the airport to try to see better if he saw him. As Bill was walking back to me MAD as you know what I saw Ryan. It was so good to see him. He said that everything went well and he had no problems and had actually slept part of the way. Of course, when we walked outside I think the humidity was around 95%-----yuck.

I forgot to post

2009-08-15T00:23:00.000-07:00

Today I really started the countdown until I leave for AA ( Adams Addition for those of you who don't know). Ryan arrives Monday!!!!!! So it got me going on what to have ready for Bill while I am gone. So far, I have made 3 packages of Chili, 4 Red Beans with Rice, 4 pounds of Andouille, 4 Crawfish Etouffee and have a huge pot of homemade soup of the stove.

I have already started a list of things to bring back--we can most things but things like gumbo file, good trash bag ( this one I really don't like but Bill is insistent that I bring them-----what does it matter if the trash bags don't have drawstring??????) crab boil--liquid ( I can make the dry kind), meds, etc.

Happy Birthday, Rachel!!!!!!!

2009-08-14T22:24:00.001-07:00

Today is the birthday of a lovely young lady, Rachel. Wishing you all the best on your birthday. Enjoy your trip you deserve it. Lots of love.

2009-08-05T21:17:00.000-07:00

This is my first attempt at jewelry making!!!!! Think I will make it into a necklace instead. I am suppose to add more dangly bead but the last dust storm has really made my life miserable!!!!!I can not shake the sinus stuffiness. Things are good here. Counting the days until Ryan comes.

Cheers!!!!!

2009-08-04T01:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of our gardener and the dates from "our" trees!!!!

Dates

2009-08-04T00:53:00.000-07:00

As you can see our compound is full of dates:

Today the man came to cut the dates in my yard. He let me take some pictures.

They got a whole pickup load from my yard. I think they cut about 6 or 7 pickup loads from the compound. The dates have to be dried and then they can be eaten.

2009-08-03T23:54:00.000-07:00

Bill and I are not allowed pets in this compound. That is one thing I had really wanted when we moved here but this place was too nice not to move here and I gave up on the pet idea. Well, We have pets anyway. We think they are mongoose. We stared noticing them about 2 months ago but they are getting braver now. Last Thursday(Bill's Saturday) we were sitting in the den and I noticed one looking in the window at us. Literally standing on its back legs propped in the window staring at us. By the time Bill could raise up and get his camera in position, it was gone. I took these yesterday afternoon. There were two there but I could only get one on camera.

2009-08-02T00:13:00.000-07:00

This last week, the building with the turbines in the middle had the turbines turning THREE days in a row. I was so excited. I am not sure if Bill has seen them turn yet or not but I think I am up to 6 times now.

I have been really busy this last week. A new family with the company came to town and I have been trying to show her where to get all the essentials. It has been fun for me. I finally when to the doctor for my back pain. I am now doing physio therapy for it. It is feeling much better.

I have signed up for jewelry making classes. Not sure if it is for me after one lesson. I can not hold small things with my finger tips. I am trying though and will post a picture later of my first bracelet. I am probably going to turn it into a necklace. We started out with plastic beads and can work up to the good stuff (semi-precious stones) after a while. At my rate I will never make it to the good stuff. Who knows if I do---- guess what everyone will be getting for Christmas!!!!

Our internet has been horrible due to dust storms. I can not even talk on my phone at times. Thursday morning we woke up with the sky very dark----almost like it was going to rain ---wishful thinking on our part. It only got worst as the day went and by Friday it looked " Dark" all day!!!!!!! Of course, my sinus problem is back and I am back on the oil again. Hey it works so why not. Because of the bad internet I have not been able to finish my post on the dates. Hopefully the internet will pick back up and I can finish my post. The gardener came by the other morning and asked did I eat dates and if not could he cut them and take them. I would never eat as many dates as where in our garden so I told him he could have them. I would rather buy mine anyway with the nice carmel coating and pecans inside. HA

Getting ready for visitor in two weeks I am so excited. I am planning some trips for us. I think that Ryan will enjoy it here. We have not seen him since January so we are both real excited to see and hug him!!!!!!!!

Going for a visa run this weekend but this time I made sure I leave early and get back at noon not at midnight.

Got to run take care.

Cheers!!!!!!

Our Green Compound

2009-07-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

The main road to compound.......
The access road to our compound.....
Entering the compound......

Looking back up the road to the entrance

At our garage looking back..... Bill parks here and you can see where I park .......

Beautiful.

2009-07-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

Hey lots of things to tell ---some of you already know. Last Monday I had to go to Qatar for a visa run----I have a five year visa and a CPR card but I still have to leave the country every 4 weeks. I went over to Qatar about a 20 minute flight---you don't get up good until you are down. I visited with a couple from Texas that works for the same company and then returned that night. They took me for lunch in a beautiful mall. The ceiling looked like the sky. The clouds actually looked as if they were moving. Beautiful----I didn't take my camera out because I didn't see many tourist there and not sure. That afternoon after work Frank Wayne came over for a visit. It sure was nice to see someone from home. I enjoyed the visit. When I got back to the airport, I was upgraded to first class ---yea for only 25 minutes home--why can't I get that on the long haul flights----HAHAHA.

Ryan got a promotion and we are so proud of his accomplishments!!!!!! He has a busy summer coming up and is going to try to squeeze a trip over soon.

Our landlord gave Bill and I complimentary memberships to the Country Club here. It is a very nice place and also close by so no getting out on the main highways to go to a nice dinner. They have four restaurant there and people who have eaten there say the steaks are wonderful. His wife is so nice to me. She cooked for me while Bill was in the US in May, given me shopping tips and invited us to go boating with them when she returns from her Holiday. It sure is nice to have good neighbors!!!!!

I have never noticed but yesterday I saw that all the imported items, chips, dishwasher tablets, cheese etc are not packaged like they are in the States. They are packaged in foil wrappers. The packages look the same but are foil lined. I had brought with me some Finish Power Ball dishwasher tablets (not knowing if I could get them here) they are starting to crumble----I guess the moisture is seeping into the plastic wraps. But needless to say ----you can buy them here in foil lined packs. I don't think there is much you can not buy here. I am going to ask about andouille from the market was soon as the pork ban from the US is over.

I know I have mentioned that we have date trees-----they are loaded with dates and are ready to be picked. This compound is so pretty. I will try to upload some pictures later today. I woke up early this morning very congested and know why now that the sun is up the humidity has to be 90 % ---all of the windows are covered with moisture on the outside. Don't think it is the heat here as much as the humidity.

Only Sara and Jarret have guessed on the picture in a earlier post. Does everyone know what it was? Jarret knows.

Going to go out and water the plants -----will post pictures of compound later.

Cheers!

Monday Morning

2009-06-28T21:58:00.000-07:00

Today is a typical Monday Morning. I am trying to recover from the last week.

I went to the Ritz-Carlton to have a hair cut and color. I have been using a guy (Elais) there and really like him. I think my color looks almost as good as when Christi did it back in Jan. He has been trying to tell me I only need to wash my hair 2 times a week-----I usually wash everyday or at least every other day----I am trying but this heat and humidity makes it really hard for me. He is Lebanese and says my hair will become more beautiful if I will try his suggestions. Well, when you all see my hair please tell me it is MORE beautiful so I can feel better about the horrors of many bad hair days I am having!!!!!!!

Bill had a dentist appt. yesterday at 16:30 so he came home to shower and change before going there. At 16:00 the dentist office called and the dentist was sick so they rescheduled. He is hating all this dental work but it is his own fault.

We had company last night for the first time in our new home. I made gumbo for all the guys in the office and their wives. Well, I had purchased a rice cooker because the microwave we have here is a dinosaur. Never having used a rice cooker I waited until 17:00 to start everyone was to be here at 18:30. Well around 18:00 still looked like rice and water to me so I decided to put some in the microwave just in case-----well traffic was back up at the immigrations and the last of the company did not arrive until 20:30 and by that time I had 2 gallons of rice!!!!!!! I had a rice cooker in Chennai but only Anu used it ---wished I had paid attention a little more. Lesson learned 4 cups of rice and 8 cups of water make alot of rice just takes longer!!!!!!!!! And that was just in the rice cooker.

I have worked on the house really hard this last week. It is really becoming home ---just needs my family, their loved ones and my Babies (Rivers and Brinkly) to make it more so.

Not that I needed them but I did buy some more carpets for the house. I have no idea what I will do with them when Bill retires. I guess I can store and change them out every month or so. I really like all the carpets I have. Carpet shopping here is great much better than in India. I never found the shops like I have now. The shop owner will put every carpet out that he has in stock and say ---This one is great you want? Of course, you have to have your shoes off and walk on each carpet to feel how great it is. By the time you leave the store it is knee deep in carpets.

I need to tell you all that driving here is crazy. It is not crazy like India in the fact that they do stay in the lanes but it is not usual to see people backing up for a block or more because they have miss a turn ---backing against traffic and traffic just keeps dodging them and going right along. Yesterday I was sitting at a red light in the third lane of six lanes. The first two lanes were turn lanes. Well, it seems the car in the front of the fourth lane wanted to turn so while we were waiting on the light, he pulled over to the first lane and backed into the second lane in front of another vehicle so he could turn-----I laughed till I cried.

Well, my helper is here so I better run. Take care.

Cheers!!!!!

Meeting People

2009-06-24T02:32:00.000-07:00

I have met several new people lately. Yesterday I took some things to get framed and was introduced to some people from the American Women's Club. They have officially closed for the summers---as it seems lots of people leave for the summer holidays. They will still have informal meetings once a month for coffee and I was invited to come and join in. I think I will go and have a look but I can tell you I will not get as involved as Junior Auxiliary been there done that. I would like just to do the fun things maybe a little volunteer but not whole out.

Yesterday we also received a copy of a newsletter praising our youngest, Ryan for his hard work. We are so proud of him. He is doing what he loves and is really great at it. Congrats Ryan for all our hard work. If you would like a copy, email me and I will be glad to send it to you.

Going for a haircut so better run.

Cheers!

Gumbo Tme

2009-06-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Bill is really wanting gumbo----we do not have andouille sausage. I have resorted to making again. I am doing it different than last time. This time I cut the pork tenderloin into thin slices and then seasoned it -left it for two days then pounded it with a meat tenderizer and cut it into small squares. I fried it softly.

Hope it works out for us. Will post and let you know.

Refrigerator Home

2009-06-18T23:42:00.000-07:00

Bill and I were so glad to see this back yesterday after a three day trip to the shop turned into a two week stay!!!!!

If you are wondering why we were so upset-----this is what they gave us as a standby!!!

For Someone Special!

2009-06-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

Today is my baby sister's birthday. Here it is 7:19 on June 18. Since I am not able to be there with her I am wishing her a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY here!!!!! I won't say which birthday but I think it is in the twenties since I am only 32-----HAHAHAHAHA

Seriously Happy Birthday Sara Ann!!!!! I love you and miss you!!!

Recent purchases

2009-06-17T00:49:00.000-07:00

I have been doing a little shopping. I have added the following to our collection:

The first item (some of you know) but guess what it is????????? Every house should have one!

I had been looking for a chest for a while. This is an antique chest from India. The front is part of an old door.
This is my camel stool or table. I probably will use as a table. I need to find a round piece of glass for the top!
Let me know if you figure out the first picture.

Take care.

Cheers!

Date Trees

2009-06-17T00:33:00.001-07:00

We have date trees all over our compound. Here is one right by our front door!!!! I need to find out it I like dates.

Catching Up

2009-06-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

Today I am just catching up on some things I have missed in posting. Sometimes it is just too hard to take time to post. HA

This picture is to show how cloudy it is here today. Looks like it might rain (yeah right) at any time. I first thought it was another sand storm but the wind is not blowing any just real cloudy!

I have finally finished unpacking all the boxes and putting things away. The landlord is sending a crew to hang pictures for me today---they don't want us damaging the walls so hey hurt us send someone. I am going to post pictures again when they are finished with the work.

Our refrigerator as I told you when out a couple of week ago. The repair company came and said they would be taking it for three days ---- well again unlike India (where they would have repaired on site) it is still gone. They did bring me a standby unit but three days is now 2 weeks and supposed to get today---holding my breathe.

Our villa has automatic sprinklers but they don't reach all my plants and the gardener is afraid to water as he might be told he is using too much water by the landlord. I am watering my plants in the morning now. Yesterday at 7:30 is was 93 degrees, so today I decided to go earlier---well this morning it was 97 at 7:00!!!!! I just decided that is the perfect time to shower after watering the plants or jump in the pool.

Yesterday we found out I have to leave the country every 4 weeks or be penalized for being in the country too long. I can not drive into Saudi as women are not allowed to drive there. Bill was at work in Saudi so a man with the company came and picked me up to "leave". Everything when well but maybe next month I will fly over to Dubai to shop. Sounds like more fun to me!I could go early and return the same day!!!!!

I can not figure this out so I will post some pictures on another post! Take care.

Cheers!!!!

Sand Storms and Updates!!!

2009-05-31T22:33:00.000-07:00

I think this is pretty common here but was very unusual for me. It looks like fog (?) but is sand!!! I could not get a good picture of the sand on the road but it looks like waves of sand.

The cars in the parking spaces look like they have been there years with a huge accumulation of dirt. We are having our cars washed three times a week. We are getting the gardener here in the compound to do it. He comes at 4:30 to wash before Bill leaves for work.

I guess sand storms are something we will have to get use to. I am glad the oil pulling is keeping my head unstopped or I would be MISERABLE. Although I am having a pretty sneezey day from this yesterday, I know it would be worst if I had a stuffy nose.

Anyway an update on our lives---------

Bill spent 4 days in Houston last week and I stayed here :( I wanted to go but the cost of the flights are high and I really want to wait and go when the little comes!!!!!! Nicholas, Juliana and Brendon went out to visit him. Jessica was supposed to go but she had a bad car accident on the way to meet them and ended up in the hospital. I really thought that Brendon would not go but after her telling him he needed to go he did. Bill and I have not met her but she does sound like a very nice young lady. I jokingly told Brendon ---she will go to great lengths to keep from meeting your Dad. Seriously, we are glad she is ok and it sounds like she will be around for a while so we will meet her soon.

Brendon is engaged! I am so happy that he is finally happy. I wish him and Jessica all the best in the years to come.

I am getting out and going more each day. I like it here. Things are good and we are able to get just about everything we need ( I still have not andouille sausage here :( !!!!)

Our refrigerator compressor when out yesterday and are waiting on Samsung to come for a visit--nothing like India---they would come in a few hours----but better than the week wait in the US ---- they are supposed to come this morning.

I fired the maid. I was not happy with her work. She never came on time(sometimes 2-3 hours late) but she would work over. Her ironing was horrible. Bill is funny about his shirts so that was not good. I had been noticing since my shipment came that it took her about 2 hours to vacuum the upstairs---yesterday I found out why. She was vacuuming a room that I had not totally unpacked. I was in another room upstairs trying to finish the straitening there and I need to put some things in the room she was cleaning----as I walked in she had the vacuum running but she was holding up a shirt I had in a box there. Well that was it. I let her finish the day and then said sorry I do not need you anymore. She also asked to borrow money(400BD-1062 USD) a couple of weeks ago ( I do not need another child HAHAHA). I really do not like firing people but that really added to my mistrust. Well better gone than sorry. I do have another one that was recommended to me by a neighbor. The neighbor has used her for a while but this girl only works part-time jobs and the neighbor wanted a live in. We will see how this goes.

We better run for now. Hope each and everyone is safe and well.

Cheers!!!!!

Hey Southerners

2009-05-22T08:59:00.001-07:00

We are having fried dill pickles for supper!!!!!!! Fried shrimp (prawns) and loving it!!!!

We have Almond trees in our yard!!!!!!

One Week Oil Pulling

2009-05-20T22:00:00.001-07:00

Who would have ever thought that swishing oil in your mouth would help with my stuffy sinus. Well, I have been doing it for one week today and I can breathe better each day. Hey if it works and it doesn't seem to be causing any harm so why not.

Our shipment( all 219 boxes---where did all of this stuff come from!!!!!!) came this week and I have been super busy with unpacking---I thought the movers would have done more unpacking than they did. In India, they unpacked everything. I really didn't want them to unpack my clothes but they didn't even unpack some of the pots and pans. I found a box yesterday with all of my trash cans in it ---I was thought I left them behind. We did have some damage to furniture that we had not had before but nothing I don't think can not be fixed or replaced.

Everyday the villa is looking more like a home---we are so excited. I will update pictures soon.

Got to run.

Cheers!

Oil Pulling Day #2

2009-05-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Can still breathe but not has good as yesterday. Gonna stick with it for about 14 days to see if it really helps. I did make it 20 minutes today but it was tough. I think the olive oil was too thick so I did purchase sesame seed oil today will let you know how it works. I can see why it says it is detox for you-------lots of drainage---yuck!!!!

Enough yucky things!!!

Cheers

Update

2009-05-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

I can still breathe!!!! Amazing since we had a horrible dust storm today.

We also purchased a Trailblazer LT today. It is brand new and was cheaper than the 2 year old Range Rover with 28, 000 miles. Oh for your information. You can buy a car with American Express----long story, for another day.

Cheers!

Homeopathic Medicine

2009-05-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

Ok Today I am trying out a new sinus remedy------or at least one of three I plan to try. I have been plagued with stuffy nose since I arrived here. I have taken all the meds I had and none of them seem to work for any length of time. I read an article on MSN the other day about homeopathic help for sinus problems. One of them involved swishing sunflower oil (10ml) in your mouth for 20 minutes then rinsing the mouth and drinking 1-2 glasses of water. I woke this morning and could not breathe. I didn't have any sunflower oil but I had extra virgin olive oil. I thought of well give it a try until I can get sunflower oil. Well, I did not make it 20 minutes only about 10 but i CAN BREATHE!!!!!!!. Working on my second glass of water-----will keep ya'll updated. If you want to check it out try www.oilpulling.com . The second remedy is apple cider vinegar and the third is drinking a tomato, garlic, tabasco hot drink. Will try the other two after the grocery visit----I NEED TO BE ABLE TO BREATHE all the time and not sure I can do this oil thing but worth trying.

Well I decided to add the following----my inspiration:

Oil Pulling: swish 10ml of sunflower oil around in your mouth first thing in the morning for 20 minutes, then spit it out and rinse well, then drink a large glass of water. Supposedly it pulls infection from your mouth, sinuses, etc.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Drink it straight from the bottle twice a day...about 1-2 tablespoons at a time, if you can stomach it. I couldn't, so I got it in pill form form the health food store.

Tomato Tea: Take tomato juice, 1 clove of crushed garlic, lemon juice, and tabasco sauce...heat it all up and drink it while it's very warm. It seems to cure sinus infections VERY quickly. It tastes pretty good, too!...like a warm bloody mary.

Remember fish spa (which I loved even if it looked gross!!!!!!)-----I will try anything once well maybe not anything but these seem ok to try!!

We are going out to try to buy a car for me today. Will update you all later.

Cheers!

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T21:17:00.001-07:00

On Mother's Day, Bill was offshore but I did hear from all of my wonderful sons, daughter-in-law, and two other special young ladies. This made my day. It only could have been better if I were with them all. Thanks to all the wished me a happy Mother's Day.

I enjoyed a talk with my own Mother. I had been trying to call her for a couple of days but when we got no answer Bill said ---maybe they moved. Yeah right!!!!!

A small update on here---our shipment is suppose to arrive on the 12 (today) it will have to clear customs and then should be here at the house hopefully by Saturday or Sunday (I still can not get use to Sunday being a work day here :( ----We have not heard from the movers since last Saturday so are not real sure on the arrival dates. The house is ready for the shipment but not real excited about all the straightening that will come with ALL the stuff. I am afraid some of my things will have to be trashed-----I thought they were only going to be in storage about 1 month and it has been 5 months and some of that was not in cool storage in Singapore so I am sure some will have to go!

Better run.

Cheers!!!!!

Sights of Bahrain

2009-05-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of the Gulf.......not good but then again all I have at the present time. The water is so blue/green. As pretty as the water in Mexico........

Instead of red lights, Most of the intersections are round about---- this is the Pearl Round About.

This is not a good picture but all I have at the present:

Today I saw the turbines turning on the twin towers of Bahrain. This is the first time since we have been here that they were turning. We (Bill, Brendon, and I) watched a show on Discovery Channel while we were in Singapore. They made it sound like they turned all the time. They were turning real slow but turning. One of the ladies that is from here said she only saw them turn about three times a year!!!!

Colors

2009-05-03T08:53:00.001-07:00

This is the color that the property manager called yellow------- it also has dusty pink carpet which I made them remove-----HA

This is for all of you that have complained about updates!!!!!

Cheers!!!

Villa Downstairs

2009-05-03T08:12:00.000-07:00

The TV Room this room is yellow!!!!!!!

The living Room---remember our shipment is not here----Hope it has left Singapore but not sure---Yikes!

The Laundry Room

The dining Room---this room is Magnolia

Pantry and Butler's pantry-----Together they are as big as my pantry in Ahmedabad!!!!

Our Favorite room of the house---the kitchen ( the table and chairs are mine)

Outside of Villa

2009-05-03T06:28:00.001-07:00

When we first came to see the house these were all down the front sidewalk but now they have been weeded out. Think the lady took some with her.

The front door and sidewalk......

View from the front door----Bill's car the white one---one I am driving the silver one.

The private entrance to the pool.

Side yard (below) Tennis court in bottom picture

More back yard

This is the back yard

This a the view off of the TV room. The door leads to the maid's quarters.

Update

2009-04-18T00:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I found out I could get a Bahrain driver's license by showing my US license. I think I will do that----I am told that it will help me when I go to open a banking account. We need to open a banking account since we are being charged 3% on all our debit card purchases and withdrawals---When I was in India I complained enough to our bank they waived them on my card but not Bill's. I might do that again but who knows if I can get them to do it again. Might be worth a try.

Today or tomorrow I am going to get to pick out the furniture for our house----the property manager had told us he had furniture but now he is saying I will take you to pick out ----funny he doesn't drive and I don't have a car yet so how are we going?????

Today is my nephew's 21st Birthday!!!!!!!!! Hope he enjoys the day!!!!!!! I don't know his cell number or his email so here is to you----HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BUDDY!!!!! LOVE YOU!!!!!!!

Got to Run----miss you all

Cheers!

Villa is ours!!!

2009-04-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

We got the house we have been wanting. Bill got in from offshore and we were able to finalize all the legal issues of the house and sign the lease. They will start working on the painting today so hopefully we can move in on the 20th of April. As I earlier stated the three rooms were orange. The property manager said they are not orange they are yellow---well they looked tangerine to me!!!!! I told him the rest of the rooms are yellow and he told me no they are magnolia. HA!!!! I said that I was very familar with magnolia being from Mississippi and that is our state flower and they rooms were not Magnolia but yellow----He said here in Bahrain they are not that color----duh!!!!! I guess now with a new language I guess I will also have to learn new colors!!!!!!

Of course, all our things except what we had sent air from Singapore(things we had purchased in Singapore) are still in Singapore in storage. Hopefully we can get a permanent resident card and get them on the way. I think that it will take 10 days once we have the cpr card. Oh well, I will get just enough things to get us by ----- we are so ready to get out of the Hotel.
Just a short update.
Cheers!!!!!!

Gas Prices

2009-04-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Bill has a Ford Explorer. I have been driving it while he is offshore. Today the light came on and said low fuel. The needle was still half way between 1/4 and empty but I decided I better fill up now. Now not knowing the price fuel I went to the bank and got money out to be sure I had enough. I pulled in the station a young man came and filled the tank and ask for 5.200 BD, which equals 13.79 USD. I thought I would faint. When was the last time you pulled into a gas station and filled up a large vehicle for less than 14 dollars!!!!!!

Still waiting on the company approval for the house. Met with the property manager again today to clear up some issues and hopefully it will pass the test.

Happy Easter to all !!!!!!!!

Villa----(house)

2009-04-09T00:12:00.001-07:00

I was told yesterday I was not looking at a house I was looking at Villa. Ha this country girl still said house but was corrected everytime!!!!!! Think we have the "villa" we wanted. The lease has been forwarded to the main office for approval. As soon as it is approved Bill can sign and scan back to the landlord with the 1 year payment and we can MOVE!!!!!!. I can not wait to take pictures and send to you all. I did not take pictures because the owner was still in the house when we looked at it. They moved out on Sunday so I might try to find my way back out there today and take a couple of pictures. I love this "villa" (house). It is in a compound with a great kitchen, washroom and great bathrooms!!!!!!!!!! You never notice how much you miss a bath until you have no bathtubs!!!! This house has a tub in all the bathrooms---in fact a jacuzi in the master bathroom with a nice shower for Bill too. Our house in India did not have a tub and I really missed one.

Bill is offshore so I am learning the city. I hate GPS systems. I would rather learn the city the old fashion way but landmarks. I already know my way around a little. The other day a friend took me to see some more villas and she did not know the area where we were but I did----HAHAHA I had been all over that area for 3 days with the other Realtor so I was able to tell her how to get somewhere.

Seriously, I am getting out this afternoon to check out the malls more. I can't wait-----shopping for clothes will be better for me here as they carry the Uk sizes and I can wear them!!!!!!Asian sizes do not like me. Got to get going.

Oh one more thing before I go. I saw my grandbaby for the first time yesterday!!!!! It has Nicholas's nose I think-----I am sure my grandchild will be beautiful---how could it not be with just beautiful parents!!!!!!!! And grandparents too!

Miss you all

House Hunting Better Today

2009-03-31T19:36:00.000-07:00

Today the weather was AWFUL!!!!! Sand storm made it look overcast all day and cold to me. It was around 73 but that is cool compared to what I have been used to----really had my sinus's messed up for about the first 2 hours of house hunting .

Today was much better in the house hunting area. I saw four that I really liked. Two were in compounds which I didn't think I would like but they are in small compounds with only like 6 houses. Only one does not have a private pool but it has a private entrance to the compound pool(it is the compound owner's house) --2 have hot tubs--all are 4/5 bedrooms with attached baths----down side only 1 has a great kitchen. Bill is going tomorrow to look so we should be making a decision this weekend (Friday-Saturday is the weekend here). I think that I have a favorite but really want Bill to help in the decision. One problem is the furniture----we have some but not enough to furnish a house. One of the four is fully furnished. They have said I could pick out furniture and ask the owner to purchase and add the amount to the rent . It might make the price out of our range but we can only submit an offer and see what they say. I am really getting into this now----first day the picking were pretty slim---I did see three I would like Bill to look at so right now we have 7 on our "short" list which is really too long----I know but I have so many "wants". I know that I have to adjust that so we will see. Bill's weekend is Thursday/Friday to we will look around then and discuss.

Today was mine and Bill's 32nd anniversary. We didn't do much just went down for a light dinner and have decided to wait until we know the city better before we have our anniversary dinner.

We are looking at trying to get me a car. I can drive here but the company only provides one car and Bill drives into Saudi everyday for work----it is not like in India were I could have the car all day while he was at work. Taxis are very expensive here not like SIngapore at all. We are not wanting to buy a car but think that renting is about $900 USD a month----not really something that we want to do.

Taking the day to go to the mall to look at furniture just to get an idea of the cost---maybe someone can tell me cheaper place to get furniture but right now I need to get idea of style so I can go from there.

Enough rambling ........
Take care

House Hunting IN Bahrain

2009-03-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

Hi. I went house hunting yesterday. It was very interesting to say the least. I did not find any that I could not just live without. I really would like a pool this time around. I know that is silly but I have one at home and would like to have one here. It was always on my list in India and I never got one but this time I really am trying to find one. Another of my wants is a nice kitchen. It seems all the houses here that I have been shown have small wet bar kitchen in the house with a much nicer kitchen OUTSIDE---yes actually you leave the house and go into an outside room that is the kitchen. This is for people I am sure that have cooks. I want to do my own cooking ----unless I could find another Anu. I did see one that a a decent kitchen inside but it had 6 bedroom and 7 baths-----think it is a bit large for us. I will go again today and look some more. The realtor keeps bringing up the beach houses----they are located on a small island about 1 hour from the causeway that goes to Saudi. Meaning Bill would have to leave around 4:30 instead of 5:30-----don't think it would be wise to do that but a house on the beach does sound nice---- I will try to take come pictures today.

Another thing I wanted to post was that Bill and I saw the twin towers here that have the turbines between them. We are living close to them now and we have yet to see the turbines turn. We had watched a documentary on them with Brendon while in Singapore. Really thought that is was neat and wanted to see this . Maybe we will see them turn before long.

Take care

Arrival in Bahrain

2009-03-26T08:16:00.001-07:00

We arrived here last night. We were met at the airport by Jim and Sandi. They helped us rent a car and lead us to the hotel. They even brought enough groceries to get us started. This was a very pleasant surprise. Today after unpacking the suitcases we took a short trip around the area. We saw a couple of supermarkets and then Bill got a call for a short introduction meeting back at the hotel. I dropped him off and went back to one of the supermarkets to pick up a couple of things we had forgotten to bring and to take a look around to see what all they had. We will be okay here. They seem to have everything. Things are expensive here but have not quite gotten the hang of the new money exchange to I will have to let you all know how expensive when I do. Better run. Bill getting out of meeting and I need to see what is next. It is 18:30 now so need to decide time difference. Take care.

China

2009-02-23T00:15:00.000-08:00

Well we stayed in Singapore for 1 month and have been sent to Tianjin, China for relief of another ops manager. We are supposed to be here about 2 weeks. We still have our apartment in Singapore. When we left Singapore on Thursday morning 18th of February 2009, it was about 80 degrees Farnienheit. When we arrived in Bejing at 15:00 that afternoon it was 34 degrees F. Talk about weather shock!!!! We had a couple of sweaters with us so Singapore being Singapore (expensive) we decided to wait to get here before purchasing any jackets. Let me tell you it was COLD and they had had their first snow of the year. About 10 minutes out of the plane, I started sneezing and I mean really sneezing like 20 times---as the stewardess was bringing me some tissues the PA was announcing that China reserves the right to deny admission to anyone that is sick ----- (Yikes I am thinking they are gonna put me on a plane back to Singapore) . I took some sinus meds and finally quit sneezing before we landed. As we left the airport (we had about 1 hour 45 min ride to Tianjin) began to get sleepy from the meds. I noticed that no traffic was on the road and felt comfortable enough to drift off -----I woke up about 30 mintues out of Tianjin and could not breath. Looking out I saw still no traffic but did see the roads were almost totally covered in snow as no one had been on them that day. All I could see was the paths of a few vehicles . Now I am worried about ice on the roads. Yikes I was not really comfortable again until we got to the hotel ---- Holiday Inn in TEDA -----earning more free nights ;)
The manager was a guy from Kansas of all places.
The hotel has three resturants ---one Brazilian, one Chinese and one continental. The first two nights we ate at the Brazilian one not bad and the third night we tried to Chinese ---well we will not try again until I can talk to Nancy(my Chinese friend in Ahmedabad) and see what to order!!!!! Saturday at lunch we ate at the Continental one and I told the waitress we wanted 1 order of spring rolls and a hamgurger each. Well the spring rolls came and we snacked on them and then out comes 1 hamburger ----she didn't understand each. So we have learned to say 2 hamburgers please. HAHAHAHA Last night we braved the non English speaking taxi and went out to a couple of places. Here you have a card that you give to the taxi driver and he will take you there. We originally had a magazine with an ad but have learned the card system so we are good to go. HA.
Today while Bill was at work I had the lady in the Club Lounge write the name of a supermarket for me to go do and also things I needed toothpaste, etc. I made it there and back with no problems ---- yeah me-----you all know how hard it is for me to not talk but when no one understands you --you just keep quiet. Well at least outloud anyway.
Cheers

BEST NEWS EVER!!!!!!!

2009-02-23T00:12:00.000-08:00

Bill and I are going to be grandparents!!!!!!!!!
Bill has decided he wants to be PAPAW------other Bill says he has big shoes to fill.
Nicholas and Juliana will be having a sweet and adorable (notice I didn't say precious) little one in September. I am sure it will be the best and most beautiful baby in the whole world!!!!!
Congrats---kids!!!!

Arriving in Singapore

2009-02-22T19:59:00.000-08:00

Another behind post but here goes ------------------
We arrived in Singapore on Jauary 19 at 6:00 but we were ready to go as we had been sleeping for about 20 hours. We were booked in Orchard Parade Hotel ( not where we wanted to be but not our choice) First room they put us in was twin beds pushed together-----well I could see myself on the floor in the middle of the night as the beds moved easily or worse yet Bill on the floor. Next room they move us to has a King bed but no chairs or couches . It did have a bench built into the wall that my feet would not touch the floor-----so much for staying in the room. Well Bill and I got out and met up with some friends of ours. It was great seeing them all after about 3 years. The next week I got busy looking for an apartment for us to be in so we didn't have to stay in the hotel for very long. I felt like I was on House Hunters----- I was shown three serviced apartments and like something about each one of them and hated something about each one of them. Finally we chose the Caribbean at Keppal Bay. It is a three bedroom apartment, it does have a washer and dryer (outside but on a small balacony), maid service 3 times a week, 3 wonderful swimming pools and a mall within walking distance.

Of course we were not able to move until the 28th of Jan because of Chinese New Year -----everything in Singapore shuts down ---really the hotel restuarant closed and we had to go out to find something open to eat dinner.

The morning of the 28th Bill went to work and I packed all the suitcases and was picked up and taken to our apartment. Bill met me there for about 5 minutes just to see where it was and get a key and I was left to start making it home. Pictures to follow later.

Cheers!

Left India in a Hurry

2009-02-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

This is behind a great deal but those of you you know us already know but I just wanted to update any one who might be out of touch with us. Back last year we were suppose to leave India in April but due to some situations beyond our control we were asked to stay until the end of the year. Well----in Novemember Bill sent an email asking were we staying or going. No reply. At least not until December 3 and we were scheduled for our annual leave on December 13 ------10 days for us to get movers, get estimates for the move, get approval and pack a four bed room house ----that of course I had filled to the max!!!!!! The company did ask us to leave the living, dining and bedroom furniture they had purchased but I still had a ton of things I had purchased. Well I left going to the airport on December 12 @ 1400 and the movers were still loading the truck. I did leave Sophia and Arun and know they would make sure all was loaded. Then it was home to a snowy Mississippi for the holidays-----well it snowed two days before we got there anyway. We really enjoyed our time at home for the holidays but it was a very busy time for all. We left the US on January 17 and arrived in Singapore on the 19 of January for a time to be determined!!!!!!

Copper Chafing Dish

2008-12-04T06:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to "Old" Ahmedabad market and purchased this chafing dish. It is very pretty and just could not resist. Would have loved to look around some more but with the city not being "easy" I decided to get this and get out.

Monkey Mania

2008-11-18T18:54:00.000-08:00

This mother monkey was watching all the goings on very quietly on the roof of the guest house.

This morning the monkeys were WILD!!!!!!!!!

I heard them over on the guest house and thought they are going to tear the roof up then one came behind me in the alcove-----it was screaming and scared the life out of me!!!!!

Of course I went inside and got some old bread and put it out for them------think I counted 12 at one time in the yard-----didn't have my camera

so I ran inside. They were all over the place----things have really changed for me I can remember the first time I saw monkeys here in the back yard I was so frightened I ran inside. I was on the phone with Sara and could not decide to which way to run and remembered the door to the foyer was locked and had to go to the pantry door which meant going toward the monkey. Now I just clap my hands and say go!!!! Time

really changes things-----oh boys guess what now lizards don't scare me as much as they used to ----as long as I can see it I am not scared------saw one on the wall in the study the other night and just walked closer to the other wall and out the door ----no screaming fit any longer----HAHAHAHA

Food

2008-11-15T20:22:00.000-08:00

For sometime I have been thinking of doing this blog. Food here in India is definitely different. When I first came here I scouted several stores to be able to find "American" food. Our house owners told us about Icy Pic and Hind Grocery. We actually visited these stores before we moved from Chennai to see what would be available.
Icy Pic--- Located in a basement and has alot of imported foods. They have the frozen meats-chicken, prawns, pork and fish. I have had to learn the names of the different cuts ---breast fillet skinless- supreme chicken; leg quarters - chicken legs skinless; whole chicken -----skinless chicken halved; roasting chicken- chicken with skin. If you notice almost all the chicken is skinless because it is easier for the processors not to have to pick the chicken and they don't do a real good job on the roasting chicken either. There I can pick up Old El Paso refried beans, taco seasonings and tortilla wraps usually. I have found several other things there that have surprised me -----marshmallows -----not Kraft put marshmallow--- I purchased some back in August so I could put on sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving.

Hind Grocery ----my first few visits there not not pleasant----they were located on the ground floor and had mice!!!!!! Not that moving upstairs made the mice go but now it is a cleaner store. I never forget when Ryan was visiting we went there and it smelled so bad like dead mice that the workers were following us around spraying an air freshener-----Ryan was so ready to leave.
I did not go back for awhile after that but then decided to brave it again after they had moved upstairs -----well that day they had Doritos and we were having company so I bought two bags. On unpacking they when I got home I saw chips in the bottom of the bag well guess what ---mice chews on one bag and it was "leaking" . Now I try to visit about once a month and always check the bags or boxes very carefully. They don't have as much as they use to have but can usually get M&M's there!!!!!!!!
I have found several other places to buy imported foods but they do come at a premium price at all of them but sometimes you just have to have them.
Last night Bill and I had company for dinner. It was truly an international meal.
Pork Tenderloin Mississippi cooked on a grill from the US
Baked Beans ---Heinz product of South Africa, bacon -US, Worcestershire sauce - England, Onions - India
Broccoli Casserole - India
Blueberry Dessert -----Blueberries from France, Cream Cheese from England, Pecans from US, whipping cream- Philippines (because there is no cool whip to be found!!!), flour (maida) - India This was my most international dish and also most expensive!!!!!
Wonderful meal!!!!!!!!!!
My next post will be on food also but on Indian products hopefully with pictures.
See ya

Shopping

2008-11-13T21:37:00.000-08:00

After the doctor appt yesterday, I stopped by Fabindia. I saw the cutest little dresses. Of course I bought one for Mary Parker. I don't know if it will fit but maybe next spring. I know a couple more little girls I would buy one for if they have the right size but I am not sure of their sizes. Largest size they had was 5-6 years. Can anyone help out there? This one was a steal for the handwork (in I think).

It also has the rosettes on the bottom randomly. Approximately 11.30 USD.

Dr Visit

2008-11-13T19:53:00.000-08:00

Sunday I had some spots appear on my face-----not just spots but like ant bites all down my nose. They were really sore and of course only being 29 I thought they might be pimples. But they did not feel like pimples ( yeah I know but this does have a meaning). Well by Wednesday still had them and a few more came under my chin-----now I am thinking shingles. They really hurt.
Bill and I have always gone to one of the hospitals for Dr visits when needed but I had a friend that I knew had seen a dermatologist a couple of times so I thought word of mouth would be good. She had seen him at the Apollo clinic but now he only practiced at his own clinic. She had her driver lead me there because the addresses here are too funny. And of course I am still dealing with a drivers that speaks VERY little English and Understands LESS!!!!!
Anyway back to the doctor visit. I got there at 3:45 pm. His office hours were from5 -10 pm. There were two guys there already . Nancy had called ahead and made an appt for me and he had said be there at the time and he would see me so I did not have to wait long. I went inside while his helper was sweeping the porch off. He came in and threw the broom under my feet and pointed to my feet and said something in Gujarati. Then I knew what he wanted me to take my shoes off and of course I went outside and left my shoes. Well at 4:00 he came in and his "helper" sent me in. There were already 6 other people waiting by this time. He first thought I had pimples until I said they itched and hurt. He looked at them closely and then decided they were bites of some sort. He asked did I sit outside much and of course I do and he said don't for a few days yeah right now is the most pleasant time we have anyway he prescribed an allergy pill (five only) and a steroid pill (4 only) and some cream. I left there and when to the drug store and purchased the meds minus the steroid ( do not like to take them and decided if they other two didn't work then I would take). Total cost 209 rupees for EVERYTHING about 4.25 USD. When was the last time you went to a doctor ($3.06) and bought meds( $1.19) for that amount must less a dermatologist!!!!!!
Oh by the way when I came out of his office around 4:15 there were close to thirty people waiting and I had to dig through shoes to get to mine HAHAHA good thing they were bright orange sequins and I could spot them easily. Good thing Nancy called ahead.

Update the bites look much better this morning after applying only the cream.

Bella and Kate Update

2008-11-13T19:47:00.000-08:00

NOPE!!!!!!!! They did not eat a single one! I don't know what to feed them now that was a 2 kgs bag of sausages and now no one will eat them. Well maybe their mom but I don't need more kittens!!!!!!

Mistreated Kitties

2008-11-13T05:11:00.000-08:00

Last night I needed to feed the kittens, Bella and Kate. I had some chicken sausage that we had purchased when we first came here from the caters for the rig. Neither Bill nor I liked it so it was still in the freezer. I decided that I would feed them that. I put in in the microwave and I got it too hot. Of course, the sweet little darling were waiting on me andwhen I put it down they took a bite before it cooled. Yikes!!!!! Well they did not eat it and this morning it was still on the porch! They came around 7:30 to eat and looked at it and turned away. I even when inside and got a cool one and they turned their nose up. I decided

1. They remembered the smell that burned them and they wanted no part of it.

2. They didn't like the smell of it and refused it!!!!!!

Bill and I think the last is correct!!!!!!! He just said if the cats won't eat it how did we think we could eat it!!!! I think we have smart cats. Their mother showed up around 10 and ate it all. Oh by the way, she is expecting again!!!!!

O it is 7:00 pm and Bella just showed up I will update to see it she eats a fresh one.

My Birthday

2008-11-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

Ok I know I am late in posting these but this is from my birthday here in Ahmedabad. I woke up and went thru the house and noticed something on the doors that lead outside to my porch.

Something was all over the floor outside also. I asked Bill and he said he had seen it also.

Opening the door, I saw birthday cards everywhere!!!!!!

There was even a flower arrangement on the table. They were all from Sophia and Arun. The cards were the sweetest. All signed with a short message inside.

They even decorated the front door. It was the best surprise. I had not told them it was my birthday-----guess someone else did! I think there were about 35 cards in all and lots of flowers!!!!!

This arrangement arrived around 8:30 from Bhakti, my friend!!!!!!

What a great birthday even though I was only 29 !!!!!!!

Bella and Kate

2008-11-04T01:00:00.000-08:00

Several months ago a stray cat had her kittens in Bill's bar on the porch. Two of them have become permanent residents. Bella the white one and Kate the grey.

Monkeys

2008-11-04T00:31:00.000-08:00

Sunday after seeing the baby peacocks, We put some bread out in hopes that they would come closer. Look what we got instead.

A whole family of monkeys. They were very rowdy!!!!!!

I think we counted 7 in all including the baby.

They stayed until all the bread was gone and then they went on the roof and played for a while!

Spa here in Ahmedabad

2008-11-04T00:10:00.000-08:00

I have told you about the gym here but now I am going to a Spa to get my hair and nails done. It is wonderful. I have been going to the shop for about 7 months now but the owner, Tanvi, has opened a full spa. I would say it is very close in comparison to the spa at The Park hotel in Chennai only smaller. It has is individual rooms with private steam and showers. That has been unheard of here in Ahmedabad until I found this place. Usually the facial, massages and anything else you have done are done at least two to a room. Always tried to go early when no one else was there. When I have body massages here you just had to leave with the oil on you after the sponged you off------yuck. I would highly recommend this spa to anyone. They hairdressers are very well trained in "western" cuts and colors. I think my hair is almost back to the way I wore it in the US. The color has not been good since I left Chennai were a girl from Canada was doing it. This is another jewel I have found here.

Baby Peacocks

2008-11-01T20:25:00.001-07:00

We have been watching for baby peacocks.
This morning one hen came out with 4 babies and was followed by another hen with 1 baby. I tried to get a good picture but they were in the back of the garden. This picture does show all the babies. Will keep you updated!!!!!

Mississippi Halloween

2008-10-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

ARRRRR HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!
While in Huntsville, Ryan bought Brinkly this Halloween costume. As he has not been around her in a while he thought that it would fit. It did fit but tightly. He says Brendon feeds her too many treats!!! Not true she thinks she is as big as Rivers so she tries to eat as much as him!!!!
Anyway after I put the costume on her the other dogs wanted to pick her up by it!!!! Hence-----

She showed them who was boss. HAHAHA

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T08:49:00.001-07:00

I carved an Indian pumkin for a Jack o lantern. It looks like it has a fat cheek!!!!!!!

We had Trick or Treaters!!!!!

They were so cute.

Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!!!!!!

Monday, 27 Oct, 2008

2008-10-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

Today has been a very busy day for me. It started at 5:30 am. I got up to watch the World Series. I am pulling for the Phillies. It seems funny to be watching the game at that time of the morning but that is the time is comes on live here. I drink coffee and watch the game. I used to always to my Christmas cards while watching the world series. I have not sent Christmas cards in a few years and think I might pull some out in the morning and address them. I will need to finish them tomorrow as the Phillies will more than likely win the series.
After watching the game I went shopping. Our new driver had to take off to take his wife to see her mother so I had the "black" truck* driver. He speaks small English but drives TOO FAST!!!!
He knew the places I wanted to do and we got there quickly. I had wanted to buy some blue lights for Christmas/Diwali. I could not find any but I did find some 'chili pepper" lights and got them to go on the back porch. I then went to DHL/Blue Dart to send a gift to Anu. I had not sent gifts since June so I thought I would do so before the "holidays". Then I went to Star Bazaar to buy fresh vegetables. The stores will all be closed for the next three days for the Hindu holiday. Diwali.
After I got home, my friend, Bahkti, and her boyfriend, Hardick, came over for a while. I had brought her some books back from the US and she wanted to get them. They were real sweet. They looked around our house and then gifted me with a beautiful pearl necklace and earrings. They are so sweet to think of me. I think of her as not only a friend but as a family member here.

Finished project.

Lighting candles

More candles.

Tomorrow is Diwali. It is the biggest Hindu holiday. It is the festival of lights. Their belief is that if there is lights on your house the god will enter and bless you for the following year.

After Bhakti and Hardick left, I went out to light the candles. We all know that Bill and I need all the blessing we can get!!!!!!

* When we came to Ahmedabad, we need three trucks----One for us, one for the Ops Engineer, and one for the Administrator. We chose a white TATA safari and so did Ronnie the Administrator. Ashish, the Ops Engineer chose a black one so we always refer it as the black truck. Just FYI!