Is US Media Portraying an accurate picture of Saudi Arabia?

Yes...I think what the media portrays for the most part (as much as any news agency can) is accurate.

I've had some question my answer to this question. So...I went to the top 5 news sources and pulled the last 5 news articles written on Saudi Arabia (or even made a reference to Saudi Arabia)...and what may be of surprise to some is that...it's NOT all negative. In fact, a lot of it isn't. However, Saudis (and others) must keep in mind...just like they want to hear and listen to the salacious details of so-called American culture and thereby come to conclusions that all American women are loose, have sex with whomever, and all have boob jobs; Americans are interested is the "juicy" stuff as well and want to read about the young girl forced to marry an old man, or the 75 year old lady sentence to 40 lashes for "mingling" with men. It's not to compare...it's just that everyone seems to just want to hear "the dirt". This is just human nature, unfortunately. So...I think when people listen to the news...they listen to it like it's "gossip", and take from it what they will/want. Trust me...being Black, and American...I too have suffered my share of stereotyping, and false assumptions based on what the news media puts out, so I'm not inexperienced in this matter. With all that stated...check out the links below to the top news organizations in the US...and actually see what is in print versus the tidbits (less than 2 minutes in length) put out by television news. But, then that would require most people to read the news...and unfortunately, most people get their news from television.

Let me apologize in advance if the links don't work. If not...you're a smart person...go to the websites directly and put in "Saudi Arabia" (with the quotes around it). =)

Have a Great Day!!

New York Times:

The Washington Post:

BBC News:

NPR:

CNN:

Taking Pictures....

During my morning walk I took a few pictures to test out my new camera. Along with developing my travel writing skills...I'm upping my travel photo game. That requires a better camera than the cute pink point and shot Sony that I currently have. And, being that I was very good this year ;-) Santa put a new Nikon under my Christmas tree. :-D hehehehehehehe

So...I've taken some preliminary, I'm testing the settings, getting used the the new camera photos. Some are actually pretty decent. All of the flower photos are taken at my house, and the beach photos were taken at the beach (duh), during my morning walk.

Enjoy!!

1 Year Anniversary

Okay....I did it!!! I've lasted 1 year living in Saudi Arabia!! Ohmigod, there was a time I didn't think I would last, and I fantasized about leaving SA at least 5 times during that year. But...here I am...still hangin', and no longer fansizing about my escape. Maybe it's Stockholm Syndrome. LOL...Roland, my husband is Swedish. Anyway...during that time, I've had a lot of questions come my way from family, friends, and from a few of the thousands of people who have watched my videos on YouTube. Today...1 year in...I've answered some of those questions, in the video below.

Anatomy of Firing a Househelper (aka Houseboy)

So...I fired my 2nd Househelper about 2 weeks ago. It was a slow progression starting towards the end of October and culminating on December 14th with me telling him: "Listen...Don't bring your ass over here any more!!" and me slamming down the phone.

Let me take you back...it went something like this:

Monday, October 25th:

After he arrives 30 minutes late, and he's done (his hours are Mondays, Noon - 4:00PM)...I asked Joseph could he come by on Saturday (October 31st) to clean before I left to go on vacation. He told me he could come, but it would be later in the day, because he is in Dhahran on Saturdays. I told him to give me a time, since this isn't our normal schedule, that I would plan my day around what he told me. He said, 1:00PM Cool.

Saturday, October 31st:

I spent time clearing out my office so he could clean the floors in this room (which isn't typical for him to clean). Roland makes plans to be home while I'm at appointments. (I didn't leave him in the house, as I didn't quite trust him yet). Well...when I come home from my nail appointment, Roland tells me that Joseph just showed up. Huh? What?!!! This would make him over an hour late coming to our house, and we had to leave in a little over an hour to run errands in Dhahran before leaving on vacay. Well...the short of the long is...he didn't get to finish half the stuff I wanted done.

So....I go on vacay...had a fabulous time. I come back and his 1st day to be at my house was suppose to be Monday, December 7th. Well...that didn't quite work out. It went something like this:

Monday, December 7th:

Brrrrrrrrrrring...Brrrrrrrrrrrrring (that's my phone ringing @ 11:30AM; he's suppose to be at my house at Noon)

Terri: Hello

Joseph: Hello Mam. I'm sick. I can't come by today...I will come by tomorrow.

Terri: No...you can't come by tomorrow. Just come by next Monday.

Joseph: I can come tomorrow.

Terri: No. Tomorrow doesn't work for me. Come by next Monday.

Joseph: Ok. Mam.

Terri: Thank you

Click (me hanging up the phone)

See...the deal is at this point I'm not liking his ass. For one, he's now inconvenienced me 3 times. And, my feelings are..."you are not going inconvenience me, and it not affect your money". If I had let him come by on Tuesday...his payday at the end of the month would not have been affected (with the exception of the "tip" he wouldn't have received), this way...his money from me would have been a day short. Also...I caught him being mean to my gardner twice, and I don't appreciate that crap...especially since my gardner is exceptional (not one bad word about this guy).

Okay...we're almost there. So...the next week comes. I'm in Al-Khobar running errands and I know I'm going to arrive back about 10 - 15 minutes late. I try to call Joseph twice on his cell. No answer. These cell phones don't have VM. When we get home...he's not here. But...I'm not home 5 minutes before my phone is ringing.

Monday, December 14th:

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrring.........Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrring.........

Terri: Hello

Joseph: Mam. How come you didn't answer the door when I came by?

Terri: I wasn't here. I had errands to run. I called you twice.

Joseph: Why didn't you call me?

Terri: (looking at the phone like she can't believe this mutha "u know what") I called you twice. And, there was no answer.

Joseph: I don't answer that phone. You should have called me at home.

Terri: I don't have that number. And, if you're not answering your cell phone, how am I suppose to reach you? What if you're not home?

Joseph: You should have called me yesterday.

*a few more words were said before I finally told him*

Terri: Joseph...Listen here...don't bring your ass over here any more.

CLICK (that's me slamming down the phone)

When I hung up the phone...I was like...In-effing-credible!!!!! Doesn't this MoFo know he's like a penny a dozen and that I can pick up another one of him, like I'm picking weeds out of my yard!!!!?

So...I'm semi-looking again. I'm hoping this time to find someone good, that I like, without an attitude...who appreciates people who appreciate a job well done.

Gawd!!! Good help is truly hard to find!!

Facebook Is Killing My Blog

Facebook is killing my blog...I think. It seems like I spend more time on FB than anything else. I created my blog to keep friends and family back home, up to date, about my move, how I was coping, etc. etc. About 3 - 4 weeks into living in SA, I was told by a friend, "if you're bored, get on Facebook. Everyone is on it". Sure enough, she was right, everyone was on it. Then I got my friends who weren't on it; on it. I got my mom on it, even my son. Now I spend so much time updating them on the most meaningless of things, that I haven't felt like writing in my blog. I think that's about to change. FB is an okay tool to use to stay in touch with people, update them on our lives, even to advertise your latest venture or your blog. But, those short blips, are no substitute for actually sitting down and putting out something that people may want to read, something with a little more substance. So....I've signed off from Facebook for 5 days. That's right...I've signed off, and I'm going to use this time to get back on track with this blog and my travel blog.

Something else that I notice about FB is that it really can give the "illusion" of friendship. But, it's just that...an illusion, a mirage. Because, really, isn't friendship more than just reading someone's blips, and looking at their photos? IDK....but I'm considering establishing the practice of...if I haven't seen you in 2 years, and I haven't talk to you in 3....maybe you shouldn't be on my friend list (because really, these "friends" have access to some personal information). IDK...Is that person I used to party with 10 years ago a friend just because we've "reconnected" on FB? If we were friends, wouldn't we have stayed in touch? Do I really even know this person now? IDK...but this is kinda what I'm thinking.

Anyway....I'm taking a break. That should get me motivated to post my 1 year anniversary video post.

Feeling Like It's Christmas

This is going to be my 1st Christmas in Saudi Arabia. And, I'm totally feeling the spirit of it; this week. But...it took a minute at first. I was in the states until the 3rd of December, and if you've ever been in the states anytime after Halloween you know, you can't not know it's the Christmas season. Now, personally, I refuse to get into Christmas until after Thanksgiving. I mean really, I'm gonna spend some money...no need in trying to rush me out shopping. Anyway...I went to a friends last week and on the ride home I was telling Rolle how I wasn't feeling like it's Christmas. Then I walked through the front door and while I was out socializing, he had put up the Christmas tree, and it's lights were twinkling. I was so happy and thankful for the "kick into the season". See...the deal is....I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the Christmas season, and I really want to find myself attending festivities starting with Thanksgiving all the way up until the New Year.

Well...here we are it's the 21st, 4 days out. Today, I've been listening to Christmas music all day (everything from Classic to Pop, from Hip-Hop, to Elvis), wrapping gifts, and making sweet treats. I make this family fudge that I've been making for over 30 years, and about 4 years ago I added a newbie, a really good friend's family recipe for Peanut Brittle. This stuff is off the chain, ohmigod...i just hope I don't eat it before I deliver it. I've got 4 Christmas parties/gatherings that I'm going to this week...and the fun starts tomorrow. So....It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!!

My Favorite Christmas Songs:

Joy To The World - Whitney Houston

All I Want For Christmas - Mariah Carey

This Christmas - Patti Labelle

Santa Baby - Kylie Minogue

I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus - Jackson 5

Wishing U Peace, Love, & Happiness this Holiday Season & Always!!

Good 2 B Home

It feels soooo good to be home and to not be living out of my suitcase. We've been on the road for 5 weeks which is the reason I haven't posted anything in over 6 weeks. LOL. We started out in Seattle, stayed there for 10 days...then we went on a road trip to San Diego (pictured), stayed there for 2.5 weeks, during that time drove up to

Los Angeles twice, flew back to Seattle, stayed there a day, then it was back to

Saudi. We did SO MUCH stuff, it was awesome. We went to concerts, historical tours, amusement parks, the beach, shopped, hung out and celebrated Thanksgiving with family and friends. We went to the American Music Awards!!! I could hardly believe I was there. That shi*t was crazy! crazy!! I have a lot to share, but since I'm trying to be a "travel writer", and I have to work on my story telling skills...

I'm going to use this past trip to write a few travel articles. In fact, I have 4 planned articles from this trip. They will be posted on my travel blog, Black Chick On Tour.

Even with all of that...I was ready to come home, and settle down. The thing is, I've been back 6 days and I feel "normal". Not like, "I'm back in Saudi"; as I have in the past. That's cool. The jet lag is still getting me, but that will pass. Now...the funny thing is...I'm

still living out of suitcases...Hehehehehehehehehe....

P.S. In celebration of what will be my 1 year "Living in Saudi Arabia" anniversary that's coming up in a few weeks, I'm working on a video post in which I answer some of the questions that I have received over this year from family, friends, and people who have viewed my videos and have stopped by my blog. =) So stop back by in a coupla weeks to check that out.

Peace!!

Airport Security - Saudi Style

When you leave SA for any destination, you have to go through immigration or security...where they check your passport, and "other stuff". Well...in them checking the "other stuff"...they found a problem with my passport. Well...really it wasn't a problem, but it meant I had to wait while the guy got a supervisor to correct the problem, blah blah blah blah *eye roll*. Apparently the problem was that I went to Bahrain the weekend before, and my passport is registered as leaving SA, but not that I ever returned; which clearly was not true, since here I was at 2:00AM in the airport trying to get on a plane to Amsterdam/Seattle.

I wasn't too surprised that there was a problem, since most things don't seem to run smoothly in SA, but what was surprising was the really nice airport immigration security dude. He joked with my husband and I about Roland getting a 2nd wife...I just laughed, as Roland told him, "yea, no thank you. one is enough". The other security dude loved that, him and Roland high fived (i think I just made this word up) in agreement. After all of this banter, we were asked to "have a seat over there"...gawd...the worst words in the world when it's 2:00AM, and you just want to get to the freakin' gate. Well...as we were having a seat and waiting, the security dudes started offering us food, little snacks. I was completely surprised. It felt good. I tend to view the Saudi security people (all of them, regardless of where they're located) as stern and harsh. And, here you have this young man (who is on wife #1, but he can get another one in 2 years; apparently you have to wait 3 years in between getting another wife, IDK) serving us up food. We'd politely accept, eat that, and then he was coming out, offering a different plate of snacks. We were like, Wow; now this is the way to send people off, and it shows that just because you have a semi-serious job doesn't mean you can't be nice.

Can you imagine TSA, giving you some snacks while you wait? Yea...I didn't think so.

Too Funny...The Vacuum Cleaner

Before I moved to SA (10 months ago); I made a few purchases. One of them being a new vacuum cleaner. I picked up one by Dyson, which is suppose to be one of the best. Well...about a week ago, my mom asked me how I liked it? I started laughing. She was wandering what was up...and then she said..."Terri, have you even used the vacuum cleaner" (she knows I HATE to vacuum, i think it's the noise). And, then I told her, that the vacuum cleaner had been used, and I guess I like it, but how I personally have never used it. Then I went on the relate how when it was 1st used, our 1st house helper didn't know how to turn it on, and he came to me...but the funny thing was, I didn't know how to turn it on either. Inside I was laughing, because here I was with K (not his name) and we're both looking for the on switch. How this must have looked to my house helper, that I didn't even know how to turn on my own vacuum cleaner. And, my attitude is like, "don't know, don't care". We eventually figured it out. But, then when my 2nd house helper started, I had the same problem, when he wanted to know how to use the hose. Again, I didn't know. LOL...how soon we get spoiled. But...I tell you...this is something I may have to deal with when I move back to the states. It's like, I know this will sound so bad, but we need to import some Indians (not being any kind of way, but they are the cheap labor force in Saudi Arabia). LOL But, then I think we have...they're all Engineers, Computer Programmers, Analyst, IT Project Managers, etc. LOL...No house cleaning for them.

Officially I'm considering Myself a Travel Writer

So...officially I'm considering myself a travel writer.  LOL.  Have I sold any articles?  No.  But, you don't have to sell anything to be a travel writer.  You just write about your journeys and what you discover.  I am taking some travel writing courses.  It has already help me with my writing, how I view my vacations, and how I plan them. Now...I've always been a planner, and I LOVE all the prep work involved in planning a vacation.  So...these are just added tips.  I've created my Black Chick on Tour blog to showcase my writing, but I also will be sharing travel tips, along with photos and videos of the various destinations.  Right now, I'm planing some of our activities for our upcoming vacation.  Well...actually, it's our repatriation trip, but still...it's a vacay from our daily lives.  We're going to spend a week in Seattle and 4 weeks in San Diego, with a side trip to Los Angeles.  We're driving from Seattle to San Diego (about 1200 miles).  I plan on writing about our activities on this trip, but hopefully it will come across in a fun and informative way that will make people want to visit that place.  While on vacation, I will probably not be writing much in my BCIS blog.  So...if you wanna see what I'm up to...check me out at Black Chick on Tour.

Peace!!

Had a Blast @ The Ball

What can I say but that we had a blast at the Ball.

I love to dance...got to do that.

I love to hang out and eat good food and have drinks with friends...did that.

I love to party as hard as possible for the given situation...did that.

Closed the party down at 5AM...did that.

Going to The Ball

One of the things you learn while living in SA is that you have to "make your fun".  In the US we are used to have many forms of entertainment from which to choose.  Not so in SA.  Socializing comes in the form of gathering at people's homes, and organized events (typically a party, that may have some theme) put on my various organizations.  Some of those organized events can turn into the highlight for your week.  I happened to have one that I'm attending tomorrow.  And, guess what..it's the highlight of my week.

We're attending the Commodore Ball.  LOL.  It's a freakin' ball!  I've been to fabulous formal parties, but nothing that is officially called a ball.  This is the first event of this kind that I'm attending in SA.  Well, actually, it's happening in Bahrain.  We got a room and we're hanging for the weekend.   I love this kinda stuff.  Working the whole look for the evening from head to toe.  I love it!!  I ordered a dress from Nordstrom's.  Online, it was beautiful, a rich vibrant red, what I got was dull red with a cheap looking mesh material over matte jersey.  Ugh!!!!!!  On the other hand, the shoes and accessories I ordered are fabulous, and go perfect with a dress I already had, and that no one here has seen me wear.   So...it's all worked out.  My nails are done and my hair is fierce (the line from an old 1986 song titled "the men all pause" my a female group called Klymaxx).  =)  I've spent the week getting hair, nails, feet, facial, and my dress altered (i've lost weight since I last wore it).  I'm so so ready.  And, I'm excited.  Roland got a tuxedo made.  He's gonna look really handsome.  I'm looking forward to another great weekend in Bahrain.

Stepford Wives?

Recently (actually about a month ago) I was speaking to another "Aramco" wife...and she stated something like the following, "these single girls think that we're all Stepford Wives".  This is a loose quote, as these are probably not the exact words, but close enough.  The label "Stepford Wife" (based on the novel, circa 1972, by Ira Levin) is usually applied to a woman who seems to conform blindly to an old-fashioned subservient role in relationship to her husband, compared to other, presumably more independent and vivacious women.  Since I heard this, I had to let it marinate.   I mean really...was I a Stepford Wife?  At first I was like, "hell no!!" because I don't blindly conform to anything, and I accept no one as an authority over me.  Besides...I talk way too much shit to be a Stepford Wife.  =)  But...then on the other hand...since I've been in SA, my life does revolve more around my husband.  And, it did take some transitioning into since I'm an independent, vivacious woman, who is used to having a job, and her own money.  However, what is wrong with making sure I'm not looking all tired when my husband comes home from work, or creating a nice home environment, or having a meal ready?  Hell, he's been the one out there all day dealing with BS (and regardless of the job, I know every job has its BS, and people issues).

In fact, I think some (not all but some) of these single ladies need to take a lesson.  Being independent and making your own money is good.  Equal pay for equal work, I'm all for it.  But, thinking you don't have to do for your man, is a huge mistake.  Women need to be women, and embrace those unique abilities, and men need to be men, and harness those unique characteristics.  And, we need to respect each other for them.   I think that is a lot of what is wrong with relationships now.  Men and women do not know how to relate to each other.  So...you better learn how to take care of your man, or you may be without one.  And, please make sure he's a real man.  That means, he has the means and the desire to take care of you and your children, before you marry his ass.

So...after much marination, LOL, I've decided that if they want to think I'm a Stepford Wife, that's okay.

BTW:  The 1975 movie version of this book was actually pretty good.  The remake with Nicole Kidman...not so much.

Later

Another Monday....

Well, here I am on another monday catching up on my blogging.  What's been happening?  Lots of parties for some reason this month.  Went to Bahrain last weekend to celebrate a friend's birthday.  Did some shopping then had drinks at Senor Paco's.  That was fun.  Got another B-Day party this Thursday, then next Thursday there's a ball, and that's a 2 day event with beauty treatments, pre-funking, then the actual ball.  The ball is a annual event put on by the Yacht Club.  This will be my first time attending.  It's held in Bahrain at the Crowne Plaze. I'm not a member of the Yacht Club, but I sure do like a good party, with great friends...so I'm totally there.  And, also, I love getting all dressed up and pretty.  Roland had to get a tuxedo made.  We picked it up last week.  They did an exceptional job.  I provided the tailor with a picture of a tuxedo by Hugo Boss, and he duplicated it perfectly...down to the Hugo Boss lining in the jacket and the vest.  The cost...$200USD!!!  Which included the jacket, pants, vest, 2 shirts, bow tie, and cummerbund.  =)  Now that's a bargain.  I ordered my dress from Nordie's (my fav store), however, when I got it, I wasn't feeling it.  The color wasn't as vibrant as it appeared online, in fact the color is dull and the fabric looks cheap (and trust...the dress wasn't cheap) But, the shoes...are perfect (I love them!!), and they totally work with a gown I already have, so...it's working out.

I've been turned on to an organic produce store in Dammam.  Yea!!!  If you know me, then you know that I'm a complete food snob.  LOL

What else can I tell you about.?  Oh Yea...I'm studying travel writing.  Which already has me thinking of my travels in a different light.  I'm excited about that.  I'm still working on my travel blog.  It's sparse right now, but it's going to be full of good stuff hopefully by the end of the year.  Most of the stuff I want to put on it are on my Mac that is currently "under the weather", but hopefully once I get it to the Apple store in Seattle, they can make it better, and more importantly, save my data.

I think it's time I made an updated video blog entry.  I have a combined total of over 15,000 views to my videos, and the last one I made was 8 months ago.  Yea...it's time.  I'll work on that, and I should have it ready in about a week.

Peace!!

Doing Good & Feelin' Fine

Well...I survived Ramadan.  LOL.  Actually, it wasn't that bad.  I only had 2 instances in which I lost my head.  One of those occurred when I was trying to make common sense out of why I couldn't get an espresso, but I could go a few feet away and pick up a coke (BTW:  I don't drink sodas, I'm using this as an example)?  So...I got a little grumpy in my look at the poor clerk.  Oh well...  It's like sometimes things are going so well...it's almost like I lost my head and forgot where I was at. Hehehehehehe

But, mostly I'm doing good.  Today my house helper is here...so that typically gets me in the mood to do domestic stuff.  I'm not to the point where I trust him to leave him in the house alone for any extended period of time.  Therefore, I use that time to catch up on stuff; like writing in my blog.  I will leave him today for about an hour to meet up with a friend at her house in a little bit.  Hoping to give her some helpful information that will put her on the road to healthier eating and better health.  I have some excellent books and recipes I'm gonna share.   I know what it's like to have annoying and sometimes painful ailments.  And, medicine in these cases, almost always makes it worst,  since it is only treating the symptoms and not getting to the why of it.  I mean really; you can turn up the music in your car to stop you from hearing the knock in your engine, but the knock is still there, and in some cases it has made matters worse by not getting to the root of the problem.  I discovered his after doctors put me on medication in which I gained 40 effing pounds; 40 pounds!!!!  And, it was causing aches in my muscles.   What kinda sh*t is that?!!   But, as soon as I got off the medications, starting eating a strict diet of organic, and vegan; started eliminating stress (and NOT via prozac, zoloft, or any of that crap)...my symptoms slowing went away.  And, now I'm back to normal, my weight is good and I'm free from what was ailing me.  Whew...anyway...i've digressed.  LOL.

Anyway....

I'm working on a new travel article for my Black Chick On Tour blog.  It's on Amsterdam.  Have I ever mentioned that  "eyessssss luuuuuves me sum Amsterdam"?  LOL.  Then my day is complete, Roland will be home, and we'll commence with our evening together.

So...all n all. I'm doin' good and feelin' fine.  =)

Kind Words - Soooo Appreciated

I received this message on my FB Wall, from a new friend who has read some of my blog.  And, I'd like to share this.  I love people who motivate.  Very few people motivate people to that person's dreams, whatever they are...they judge and a lot of them just hate that you're trying to do something, anything.  So...Thanks Girl!!!  I will keep on...keeping on!!

 It takes courage to write honestly. -- true writers (honest ones) payed dearly..throughout history..I love your Black Chic In Saudi Blog..Its an Authentic True Voice.. It gives me Great Pride GREAT PRIDE! to support you and your writing!! I WANT to read what you write. and I Protect You. I know you'll never give up being true to yourself...and like the 'radio' song 'you liked me till you heard my shit on the radio' and 'you still curse the day I decided to Stay True to MY Self!" instead of just lovin.. :D We Own Ourselves We Are Power :D & WE USE IT! YAYAYAY!

My 100th Post!!

Even though I've had a not so great week.  And, I had a total relapse over the last few days (meaning I was hating the very sight and smell of this place).  I wanted to make my 100th post a positive one.  So, as I was going to update my FB status with how great it was to have help around the house, I decided to make a post on what I view as positive for me about living in SA.  I will NEVER think it's better than living in the US or Europe, but, hey..there are some positives, and they are as follows:

1)  Really cheap household help.  I'm on my 2nd house helper, and as the saying goes, "good help is hard to find", but they're so cheap, and they're a dime a dozen.  So, if you don't like the one you have, dump him, because you can have another one in no time at all.  

2)  Really cheap gardeners.  Now...I lucked out with my gardener.  He's awesome.  Not one word of complaint about this guy.

3)  Not getting up at 5:00AM to a blaring alarm clock. 

4)  Having time to do what ever in the hell I want (based on what's available to do, which is somewhat limited)

5)  Having the time off to travel, travel, and more travel.  Can't do that on the 3 weeks vacation a year that I got in the states.  

6)  I always lose weight when I get back into SA, after being gone.  And, that's just wonderful.

7)  Gas is cheap, cheap, cheap.  $5.00 to fill up!!

My Get Over Has Gone Kaput!

My MacBook Pro has gone Kaput.  Well not entirely.  It's been determined that either my hard drive or my OS is corrupted.  I won't know it until I get back to the states and can take it to the Apple store for diagnostics.  At least I'm still under warranty.  The good news is that I have a desktop Mac I can access the internet with and work on.  The bad news is every single file that I need to complete projects I am working on; are on the notebook.   These are projects that were going to sustain me until my next trip back to the states.  As I've stated before...I go in 10 week cycles.  LOL... I'm here 10 weeks, then I go somewhere for 2 - 4 weeks.  In between going somewhere...I work on projects, and this is what gets me through my time in SA.

I was working on a Raw Food cookbook (Working Title: Cooking In The Raw) for the past 2 months (I even worked on this project while I was on vacation in August!!); cooking and experimenting with recipes  All of this may be lost.  ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!  I was having this professionally printed, with hard cover, and they were going to be Christmas gifts.  The timing would have been perfect with my trip back to the states in November; I planned on bringing them back with me.  The video projects I'm working on are for my new travel blog (Black Chick on Tour ); the video footage, the text for the narrative, the whole nine is on this computer.  Video from my May 09 vacation; 9 European destinations.  Gawd!!  I hope it's recoverable.  The deal is this...if it's the OS then they will be able to access my files, put them on a disc, before they reload the OS.  If it's the hard drive...I'm pretty much screwed, unless I want to shove out close to $1000 to have the data/files forensically removed.  

These projects were going to get me over until my next trip back to the states in early November.  Now...I'm bored, and there is nothing I want to work on.  It could be that I'm just wallowing in self pity, because all of this just went down this past week, and I still haven't gotten over it yet.  

In other news.  We finally got a bed.  Gawd!!  Who knew it would be so hard?!!  The 1st place we purchased a bed...they tried to screw us out of an extra 1000 Riyal.  Even when they called back and stated that they would honor the price they gave us...we said no!  But, guess what...they charged our card anyway.  It took almost 4 weeks to get that money back!!!   We went to another store, and our new bed was delivered tonight.  WhooHoo!! No more sofa sleeper.

Ramadan is still in full effect.  I'm not feeling impacted too much...with the exception that I can't go and get my espresso in the AM.  But, other than that...nothing.  Even more shops than usual are closed in the daytime, and no restaurants are open.  But, I don't eat out in SA, so...I'm not really impacted there.  I do want to go to Bahrain next week...and I will feel it then, as I can not have lunch at my fav Italian restaurant; I have to wait until dinner.  But, hell...I can make that work...so...yea...not a big deal, for me.  Cause I'm eating as I always have.  LOL

Anyway...until next time.

Peace!

And, put out a good vibe that my baby (notebook) will be okay.  

1st Day of Ramadan

Today is the 1st day of Ramadan. It will be interesting to see how it celebrated/practiced inside of SA. I do know of Ramadan, and what it's about. However, my experience is limited to picking up my GF back in the day at sunset to hang out and get something to eat. I'm suspecting things will be a little different than that. LOL. For example, today, I have learned that most of these stores will not open until 5:00PM. Also, they request the "non-muslims" not to eat or drink anything in public during the day, during Ramadan.

This is also my 1st day back in SA following 3 weeks in the states, I'm still jet lagged, and therefore have not gone out and about. But, I hear you will not see any Saudi's on the streets during the day...but that the evenings are crazy with activity late into the night. As soon as I get back on the SA time track, I'll get out and let you all know what I see/find

This is day one...I will report back on day 30, and give full Ramadan details.

Unless something interesting happens in the meantime...

Later...

Periodic Updates R Good!!

As most of you can see (or may have noticed)...I don't write in my blog nearly as much as I did in the beginning. That is really because, there isn't much to write about. I could write about my daily existence in SA...but I think that would bore you to tears. But, I think periodic updates are good.

My 45th birthday was 2 weeks ago. 5 friends got together, and we all went to Bahrain for Spa Treatments, Shopping...then they took me to wonderful dinner at Primavera's in the Ritz-Carlton. 6 months ago I knew no one and now these lades have come together to help me celebrate my birthday. Not to be all sentimenty (LOL) but I was really touched and we had a BLAST!! It feels really good to have hooked up with a great group of ladies, who are like minded. I'm still not getting along at RT the way I would have liked, but I'm okay with that. I just have to remind myself to look at the demographics. And, to be thankful for what I have...

I'm still going to Bahrain on an average of twice a month. Hubby and I went out to dinner and a movie a few weeks back. Saw Angels and Demons...it was pretty good. It was filmed in Rome and we had just gone to Rome in May...so we recognized a lot of the locations...we were all excited about that. Did I mention we loved Rome? And, that Bahrain is like a Savior?

Since I've been here...a lot of my posts have been kinda down and depressing (understandably, and anyone who says otherwise is a liar. It definitely takes some "getting used to" to live here). So...I thought I would share an email I sent my family and closer friends back in the states. I have chosen not to upload all the pics I sent to family, but kept the reference as to not interfere with the context of the letter.

Hey Yall,

I thought I would share some pictures of where I'm living. Please note...my place is still a work in progress. I need curtains, which I'm buying when I come back to the states this time around. And, I think I'm going to paint an accent wall behind the couch...I'm thinking a sage green. I'm hanging pictures, which is making it feel more homey. In my long entrance hall way...I'm going to frame and put up some artsy photos I took when we were in Italy. It's coming together slowly but surely. That cord running from the entrance hall to the living room is my internet connection. LOL!! I like to sit on the couch (as you can further see) and have internet access, and we're hardwired, so I have a 50 foot cable stretch through the house. Sometimes when I'm cooking, I bring my computer in there....yea, yea, I know.

The courtyard is where I sit outside and talk on the phone or read a book. Sometimes, I just need heat on my skin because as you can imagine the air conditioning is running all the time. It's slowly coming together as well. Our gardener is awesome, he just keeps showing up with more and more plants. This morning I went outside, and there was a new ficus tree. And, that sandy portion will slowly start to fill in with the ground cover he's planted. When we moved here, both the front and back were sand pits, with sea shells in it. Who knew that you could eventually turn a sand pit into a lawn.

The color of the house is the same with all the houses. Ugh!!!!!!!! It looks like a big box from the outside, but inside the layout is pretty decent and the rooms are well sized. So, I can't complain about my accommodations at all. High ceilings, huge master bedroom, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, storage galore. Oh Yea...did I mention they deduct $*** a month from his paycheck for these accommodations, and that includes, utilities and phone? So...whenever, I get too complainy, these are the things I keep in mind. And, actually, I've been doing really good lately. No complaining...I haven't been angry...I'm feeling pretty good. I've been getting up and walking on the beach 3 - 4 times a week; which I live across the street from. I've been getting out of the house (going to Dhahran) and meeting up with friends, so...

Oh Yea...and the other pictures are of Roland going to work. I walk him to the car when he goes to work, like a good lil housewifee. LOL. Doesn't he look handsome in his uniform?

Miss U All and See Yall Soon!!

5 Good Days In A Row

Wow!!  I can hardly believe it...I have had at least 5 good days in a row.   I went to a birthday party a few days back...that was good.  Oh Yea...then last week we purchased a dining room table...and it was actually delivered on the day and time they said if would be.  That was definitely an "OHMIGOD I can't believe it" moment.  And, BTW, I LOVE IT!!   We found someone to frame our artwork...who has a shop in Khobar...but also works out of a house in Dhahran.  We got 6 pieces framed, 2 with custom frame work, and we actually got that done in 3 days!!  For 1000 Riyals!!  And, he drove up to Ras Tanura.  So...you can see (from what you're reading LOL) that my house is coming together.  Sometimes it feels like time passes soooooo slow here...but I know it's passing because my backyard is landscaped, and the plants are growing.  Just 3 months ago...it was sand with seashells.  

Even though I'm starting to live more...I'm still counting down to vacations and OOK time.  OOK is the acronym used down here for "Out Of Kingdom".   My mom has shipped me a care package... Yea!!!!!!!!!  So I'm counting down to that...should have it in 1 week.  Can't wait to get it, I have stuff from Crate and Barrel, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom's, and Raw Vegan Source.  Then on August 1st...we're outtie.  Going to Seattle for 12 days, then driving down to San Diego for 10 days.   I'm making a few friends...but they're mostly all in Dhahran.  I so wish I could move back.  I like to use the 80/20 rule (which can be used for many things) when it comes to people.  When I meet them...I will not have anything in common with 80% of them.   Why is that?  I found that most people are "status quo" and I like people who are "different", non-judgemental, and who thrive on being "out of the box".  And, Gawd, I HATE people who always want to tell other people what they need to do, should do, or what they shouldn't do.  So...that means...I'm only going to like 2 out of every 10 people I meet.   Please know...I do recognize it goes both ways...so that means that 8 out of 10 people will not like me.  With those odds...I think I may have a hard time finding someone who I completely vibe with on this small camp.  But...time will tell.  Hell...I didn't know I could/would actually have 5 good days in a row.

Peace... and Later...

Michael Jackson - Rest In Peace

Today we have lost an icon.  My condolences go out to his children, his family, his fans.  He will be greatly missed.  There isn't one person on earth who doesn't know at least Michael Jackson song.  May He Now Rest In Peace.

2 Dang Hot

It's over 100 degrees Fahrenheit every single day.  And, it's just getting started.  So... Let me just say:  IT IS TOO DANG HOT to be wearing an abaya.

Enough Said!!

Taking One Box At a Time!!

Finally...I've started to unpack my boxes.  And, the more I unpack...the more I want to unpack.  I started in my kitchen, because (1) we're real foodies (healthy food) and (2) I like to have all my gadgets, various mixing bowls, special knives, etc.   It is always cool to find for example my perfect 2 cup glass measuring cup, that has ways to measure ingredients using 6 different methods.  In the states...it also doubles as a Martini shaker...gotta love that. =)

Well...last night I unpacked a random box...and it had nik naks, framed family photos, and vacation art that I need to have framed (this is perfect timing since I just found someplace on camp to get my pictures framed).  These personal items are what really start to turn a stone cold, gotta have the air conditioning on building, into a home.  It's inspiring me to look at ways of decorating the place.  Because the deal is...the layout of our house is nice, the rooms are big and roomy, especially for just the 2 of us.

Now...I've just received an email where a group of people are donating clothes to women and children in Africa.  OK...so for those who don't know me...I'm a clothes horse. I know I have some stuff I can give away and not miss.  So what does that do?  If gives me motivation to unpack the 6+ boxes of clothes and related apparel items.

What I surmise from all of this is that the energy wants me to unpack (does that mean it wants me to start considering this place home?).  So, I'm taking it...one box at a time.

House Help....Finally

Today we hired what the Saudi's call a "houseboy"...I prefer to call him my house helper.  Houseboy is so degrading.  Reminds of back in the old south how whites would degrade black men by calling them "boy".  The man could be 70 years old...worthy of respect...but they would still call him "boy".  

So...Anyway...he started working today.  I'm going to have him come by once a week, for a few hours.  So...for all my friends in the States...  I do not have a maid.  I will be cleaning my own house, most of the time.  He will only doing the major stuff; washing windows, floors, etc.

I'm a little uncomfortable with him cleaning while I'm online (he's vacuuming as I type)...but I need some motivation to finally move into this house and not treat it as a crash pad (but I think I'm gonna get used to it real quick).  I've been told that I haven't started to consider SA home (I doubt I ever will) and that's the reason I haven't unpacked 80% of my boxes.  I haven't been giving "a rat's azz" about anything here...but that can be depressing, and it's probably contributing to my doldrums.  So...with him helping me get my kitchen prepped (lining cabinets, etc.) I will finally finish unpacking those boxes...then I can have him help me put that stuff up (or clean it, before I put it up)...and it starts there.  Already my living room is looking better, the sand (this gets in/on everything) is off my windows and window sills, and I'm feeling good about this move to hire this guy...I was actually going to call him and tell him not to come by today.  Thank Goodness I didn't.  =)

Decided 2 Unblock

So...I've decided to unlock my blog.  Why?  Because I just don't care anymore.  If people don't like what I write...they can NOT come by.  I will ignore the trolls, and just do "my thang".  

I haven't written in a while because I haven't been in Saudi Arabia.  As some of you know... I left SA for 2 months from Mid Fed - Mid April.  Well I was back for 3 weeks then left left on a family vacation for most of the past 3 weeks.  Hubby, my mom, her friend, and myself.  18 days (i'm counting travel days), 5 countries!!  Spent 4 days in London; went on an 11 night Mediterranean Cruise; then 2 days in Barcelona.  Had a blast...you can check out my review of the cruise here:  

http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=55261  

I've visited so my cities on this trip, and with all my travels...I have decided that it's almost a must that I start a Travel Blog.  During this trip...I took over 1000 pictures and 400 video clips.  And, I'd like to share these; but not on this blog.  So...a new blog it is.  I don't know what I'm going to call it yet.  I like the moniker "Black Chick"...but I haven't come up with anything clever to follow this.  I've temporarily selected, Black Chick on Tour.  But, I would be stealing this idea from a friends blog...so I'm kinda not feeling it...but it does sound cute.  So...if anyone has any real suggestions, holla' at me.

Wow...it kinda feels good to be back writing again.  I think I've had/have a case of the doldrums.  I'm working it out...

Censorship - Gotta Love It...NOT!!!

So...I'm doing research for my upcoming vacation.  On several occasions I've been blocked from going to a site based on something that is on the site.  OK...so let's say you understand if they block p*rn sites.  But, I'm being blocked as I'm researching body piercing shops in London.  I got my nose pierced about 6 weeks ago, and I want the ring changed...since it's not fully healed...I'm looking to a professional to change it.  I've been blocked from 2 sites, and from certain pages within one site.  I wanted information on a specific (Villa Vignamaggio) viney*rd in Italy, so we can do a w*ne tasting at this fabulous villa in Tuscany, I am blocked from that site.

Wanna know what censorship looks like?  This is what I see when I'm being told "NO!!!  U CAN'T GO THERE!!".

So Over Saudi Arabia

I haven't posted since I've been back...because there is nothing to post.  I'm living my life in a fishbowl filled with dust.  I'm so over Saudi Arabia, I find it boring.  You can read previous posts...and just change the dates...nothing has changed in regards to what it's like living here.  So, I'm unmotivated to write about much right now.  Maybe that will change

I'm still meeting new people, but I'm laying low.  I went to this women's coffee meeting I was invited to and I met a few  women...then one walks in and says to me, "you're the lady with that blog.  I recognize you from the picture".   And, my first thoughts are "oh shit.  like I need this BS".  Just the words "that blog"; let's me know there has been talk, or at least that is the assumption I made.  Then I notice one lone "other" black chick there...and I can't help but wonder if this is the B*tch that was writing crap about me on the expat forum.  So, I don't want to have anything to do with her, regardless, because you just never know people; but people know me.  When I say "people know me", I say that because anyone who has had any interaction with me knows that (1) I'm genuine, no BS here, (2) I speak my mind or keep quiet, but never will feed you crap, (3) you will always know where you stand, I don't fake and front, and (4) I won't talk about you behind your back while smiling in your face.  And, these basic, "straight shooter" attributes are really hard to find in people; especially women.

So, I've been spending my time and putting my focus on my husband, our lives, and getting our home in order.  I am going to a beach party next week in Bahrain; that should be fun.  I'm actually looking forward to it.   You can check out the location here:  www.aldarislands.com.   Bahrain...actually is like a savior, for me anyway.  I was there a few days back...I got to shop, went to a movie, eat and drink, and drive; and walk around with some semblance of normalcy (don't have to wear the abaya).  

The good news is that I'm going on vacation in exactly 2 weeks.  =)  yea!!  18 days traveling throughout Europe with hubby, my mom and her friend.  So...that should be fun.  And, of course I will take plenty of pics and video footage.  

I'm actually thinking of creating a travel blog; that would be a good project to get started...I already have tones of footage from previous travels.  Maybe that would be a better outlet than this blog.  I gotta give that some thought.

Later...

Password Protection

Well...I'm back in the KSA.  Nothing new...Same ol, same ol...with the exception that this time...there are going to be a few changes.  One of these changes is that I'm going to Password Protect my blog.

When I created this blog...I DID NOT create it to give advise, get advise, or make friends; and I certainly didn't expect to have a few crazy biotches chasing me down (one of them was trying to force me to have lunch with her!!  How many times do you need to tell a "B" you don't want to have lunch with her and you don't have the slightest interest in getting to know her?  The other was just a "hater" girl spreading lies about me online.).  Granted I have some people who read my blog regularly and appear to enjoy it, and have given me some good advice, however, I don't have the patience for the BS.  I created this blog for my friends and family back home; and to have a written record regarding my  experiences, as I'm making a documentary about my stay here.  Somewhere along the way I got lost and caught up in how many "hits I was getting"; versus my original intentions.  I've made this decision after much consideration.  This will be the last post that isn't password protected.

Friends and Family:  I will be sending you the password soon via email and Facebook.

Everyone Else:  If you're a regular reader; contact me if you're still interested in reading my blog, and if I recognize you, I will email you the password.

Peace!!

Headed back to the KSA!!

It's been a while since I've written.  That's because Black Chick is in San Diego.  I've been here for the past 2 weeks visiting my son and my family.  San Diego is freakin' AWESOME!!  I took some "tourist footage" that I plan to share shortly.  

Well...I'm headed back to the KSA.  And, this time...I'm really ready.  I miss my husband.  And, I have a new attitude.  Also, I'm tired of living out of suitcases (which I've been doing since mid December)...and I'm ready to get my home set up and our lives "back to normal".  Our stuff arrived while I was gone.  So...that's cool.   Can't wait to get everything set up.  

I did so much freakin shopping while here.  I stocked up on cute t-shirts, make-up (I haven't seen my brand in the KSA, and what they have is much more expensive), swimwear (I'm going on vacation in May), kitchen stuff (I don't know if they have kitchen ware stores in the KSA like Bed Bath Beyond; I haven't seen one), shoes, organic/raw snacks that I love, I even bought Roland stuff LOL.  Anyway...I came with 2 pieces of luggage and I'm leaving with 3 pieces and 2 boxes.  

The car service I hired should be here in 1 hour to take me to LAX.  So...I'm out.

Pondering Life in Seattle

It was a beautiful day in Seattle today.   I haven't posted in a while because I'm not a Black Chick in Saudi, LOL, I'm a Black Chick in Seattle, who isn't doing much of anything, other than getting together with friends, and pondering life and stuff.  Stuff I don't feel like sharing so....until I get back to the KSA my posts will be light.   However, I did want to share Seattle.  Seattle is my adopted hometown, and I will miss it.  When it's gray and rainy for days on end,  it is easy to forget how beautiful it is here.  But, when spring actually comes, and it's green, lush, the sun is shining, the trees and flowers are blooming; then summer hits and this town really comes alive.  There is so much to do in the summer time.  Yea...Seattle is cool...this town can hang with the best of them.

View of Mount Rainier from Lake Washington

Elliott Bay

The ferries are as much a part of Seattle as the space needle.  Those are the Olympic Mountains in the background.

Seattle skyline from Alki Beach.

OK - So It Isn't That Bad

Ok...so after a brief hiatus I'm back to my blog.  I'm in Seattle, while Roland is training in Dallas.   I must admit...it's kinda boring.  With the exception of one friend, all my friends are at work.  That gave me a lot of time to think, and read, and think, and think.  I was asked by 2 people, "is it really that bad"?   I thought about that question for a decent amount of time.  And, I've determined, no, it isn't that bad, and, the longer I've been here in Seattle, the more I'm feeling that, "it wasn't that bad".  Besides a few personal hiccups in adjusting to situations and how things are done...it wasn't that bad.  Some of the things I thought I missed I didn't.   What I did miss were my friends.  I've rediscovered my female support system of real friends who where there for me and listened while I whined over a glass of wine.  It's so important to have that, yet when you're the trailing spouse, it appears that people don't take notice that you've undergone a major stressor and that being a newbie...you don't have that female support system of friends you can trust, to help pull you up, when people want to bring you down, or you're just feeling down and missing home. 

I thought I missed daytime television (I don't know why since I worked during the day, but when I stayed home I watched it).  So, I'm home during the day with daytime television.  Television I thought I missed, only to come to realize that it was the familiarity I missed...as I have tried to watch these shows since I've been back (and I've been back in the states for 12 days now), and I'm not really interested.  So...I've found a few things that I miss about being in Saudi Arabia; (1) the $5.00US Fill up.  It just cost me $38US to fill up my Pathfinder, (2) they make the construction trucks and 18 wheelers stay in the far right lane; (3) Hummus (which I guess I can get here, but I had my routine of getting it at the Dining Hall, and it's really good there.  I thought I missed Starbucks...then I get back and I've only been to Starbucks once; I've been getting my daily espresso at the Metropolitan Market, and it's perfect.  So...really...even though I only stayed a short time before I left to come back to the states.  I think going back this time is going to be easier, since I will be coming back to a home, and not a bunch of waiting, and processing, etc. etc.  My shipment will have arrived, so my house will be set up with our things.  The attitude shift is, I've gone from, "ok...I'm doing this.  what is  this going to be like?  I already miss my television shows" to "ok...time to go home.  make sure you've purchased all your extra goodies, done sufficient shopping, have Roland bring abaya to airport just in case, and I will be glad to be home, finally, with my husband"

I may be getting towards the end of Act 2 of Culture Shock (a real phenomena).  And, this out of the blue, early return, has kinda help me put things in perspective and has aided me in developing a new attitude (especially when thinking only about what I've lost or given up).  I've learned that yes, I have some inconveniences by living in Saudi and having to depend on other people; but overall it isn't that bad.  And, as with anywhere I've learned that there are some great people out there and I've learned there are some vicious people out there, and this time around to take it slow.  I've had the demo version; I think I'm going to upgrade and take the entire package.

What Is The Deal?

Let me start by 1st stating that, "NOT ALL WESTERNERS/EXPATS ARE LIKE THIS"  and that as I have mentioned on several occasions how I've met "a lot of really nice people" who have quite frankly welcomed me and are helping me with my transition through their communications and company (i.e. hanging out together)  This is my disclaimer since there are some who can't read and comprehend. (LOL)  Now that I have gotten my disclaimer out of the way....I have to ask:  Why is it that if I get any type of comment to any particular post the person who "takes it out of context and gets defensive" is always a westerner/expat? 

I have yet to get that from an Arab/Saudi who responds to either my posts or videos.  In fact:  on my video comments the Saudi/Arab's are always either welcoming, informing, or trying to educate me a little.  But I never get the "get over it" or "so what" comments from them; it's always (from what I can guess based on the entire comment and/or their alias) from westerners/expats.  

So...before I start getting slandered and receiving hate mail; I'm seriously curious about this phenomena.  What is it?   So...the comments I would like to receive on this are answers to my question as to why the westerners/expats, are the one's who are defensive and in some cases just rude?

Below are the 16 comments (these are all the comments received) on my video: Living in Saudi Arabia:  2 Weeks In.  Please Note the comment from SAUDIBIPASHA who stated:  Thank you for your beautiful feelings towards the My beautiful Saudi Arabia

Following is the link to the video comments page and the all of the actual comments submitted

http://www.youtube.com/comment_servlet?all_comments&v=YuIrsTrOs0I&fromurl=/watch%3Fv%3DYuIrsTrOs0I%26feature%3Dchannel_page

All Comments (16 total)

ALMUHANNAD (4 weeks ago)

abaya looks kool on you

5 stars rate

wenarto (4 weeks ago) 

LOL - 5 stars, I love the black dress, I want one

nvmee8 (4 weeks ago) 

you are so funny!! lol!! that looks so good on you....i would love to go to any country and live like them for a year, you should try to learn arabic !! i cant wait to see the rest of your videos...by the way im watching all the way from cali baby!! haha take care and remember don't eat or drink with your left hand k..laaaaaaaaaaaaate

tlundberg (4 weeks ago) 

All the way from cali baby!! I love it...my home state. I'll be there for about 3 weeks in April...can't wait. And, yes...I plan to take some Arabic classes...but don't expect to hear me speaking it in the near future.

ahilsunnah (4 weeks ago) 

the black dress is a most for her in Saudi or she'll be arrested

tlundberg (3 weeks ago) 

Actually, that's not entirely true. I've seen numerous Western women in the malls without the Abaya on. I hear it's worst in Riyadh, but in Khobar...I see it quite regularly...western women not wearing the abaya. And, I myself, never cover my hair, even when I'm wearing the abaya.

agc3168 (3 weeks ago) 

May I suggest you shop for a "Jallabiyah". There's some really nice ones out there. I'm following your posts with lots of interest, and wish you a pleasant, memorable stay in Al-Khobar.

ahilsunnah (3 weeks ago) 

Well in Jeddah u will but not like Riyad dont evan think about it

ahilsunnah (3 weeks ago) 

well in jeddah u might be but in right or like some rural area u will be and evan might have a hearing with a Judge

h3mmod1990 (3 weeks ago) 

LOL that was very funny , ill subscribe to you , waitng for more !!!

BTW am from qatar next to saudi

akwah2002 (2 weeks ago)

lool ..... I sow your older post first, the one you were talking about moving in ..... I was like : now here is another foreigner (particularly American) who think she is going to a desert and expecting to find camels and oil wells every where.... Saudi Arabia is way more than that .... and I hope you have the time to discover for yourself welcome to Saudi Arabia .... I would pour you a small cup of Arabian coffee if I could :)

tlundberg (2 weeks ago) 

That was you making assumptions about me. And, BTW: in my 1st post NEVER stated that. But...don't act like this isn't the desert...because it is. It is a desert with houses, streets, stores, restaurants, airports, etc...but none the less...it's the desert. And, you know you can't even think about offering me coffee. =) You're on restriction. LOL

mhagrkorea (2 weeks ago) 

hhhhhh cool

akwah2002 (2 weeks ago) 

just like California :) .....( minus everything) loooool

well if you ever had the time to visit Riyadh you and your husband..... just give me a note .... you'll see what I can do.... :)

tlundberg (1 week ago) 

True that! Actually, when we drive around in some spots here it actually looks a lot like the western (inland) coast of Mexico.

I plan to visit Riyadh...I don't know when...but how can I not visit Riyadh at some point, just like I must go to Jeddah.

WHATZUP1400 (1 week ago) 

hay .. nice of you to show a good point of view about Saudi.. 

by the way.. i think you should go to Jeddah.. it's way cool than Riyadh..

both are nice places but Jeddah is better

oh.. i forgot.. wellcom to Saudi :))

SUBAHANNALLAH (2 weeks ago) 

Your soooo lucky!!

SMNOON (1 week ago) 

hey i'm from Saudi and i find you very interesting and funny would you like to be on saudi TV to tell your story ?? that would be awesome .waiting for your reply :)

SAUDIBIPASHA (1 week ago) 

Dear Madam 

Thank you for your beautiful feelings towards the My beautiful Saudi Arabia 

Believe me, the people of Saudi Arabia, a peaceful and good 

I admire your beautiful Madam

ss121ss121 (2 days ago) 

you are welcome in saudi arabia =)