winding down

well, 1 week to go before we come back home for summer vacation. can't believe how fast the time has flown! that would explain the lack of blog entries for the past 2 weeks.

it's been a whirlwind, really. lots of leaving parties, gatherings, etc. one friend is leaving tomorrow for cyprus, packing up her husband and 4 kids, taking 6 one-way tickets and winging it. kids are going to be going to greek public schools - no one speaks greek, mind you. that certainly takes balls, if i may say. all the best to her.

the biggest news of the 2 weeks is that my closest friend here, sara, is leaving as well. it was a bit of a surprise for her as well, but she has to do what is best for her family. they are trying to stay in the UAE, but may end up in spain with the intention of returning here in 2 years. we'll see what happens, but many people are sad to see her go, myself (obviously) included.

we've been hitting the blue souq quite frequently and our last trip is saturday. serge, julian and i are at the pool every day of the weekend, and often during the week as well after serge finishes work. it is HOT and disgusting here. at least the pool is refreshing and there's somewhat of a breeze. can you call light wind that's over 100 degrees a breeze? i feel like a breeze implies cool. but anything helps when it's 115 and climbing.

this week we had a ladies' night at the golf club with something like 40 expat women from RAK. the last hurrah before the summer break. 

off to enjoy the rest of the weekend before i have to pack - hopefully not at the last minute in a horrible panic as per usual...