Getting Settled Into Kuwait, Year 2

My New Digs

They told me, but I just didn't believe them.  It cant be that bad, I mused. Well... dust, everywhere. It coated everything. I had to sweep up little piles, vacuum and mop multiple times and still... dust. I was slipping and sliding in my house shoes (inside flip flops).

I am in a new larger (but not too big), 11th story apartment.  It isn't perfect, but I love it.

Above is a short (30 second) video that covers a wider scope than I posted on Facebook (to me FB peeps), but from the same window.

View from my living-room window.

Things are now organized and clean enough to relax.

The kitchen is just off the living-room.

Master bath to the left and hallway to living room, etc. to the right.

Fun clock purchase I forgot I got, right before I left for the summer. 

View from kitchen window. The gulf is the distance, but the smog/dust/whatnot is making it hard to see that. 

So, this happened: I had been considering a maid to clean my windows, because they have dust storms here and I have amazingly grand windows, but I was still on the fence about it. And then I spend countless hours cleaning the tiled floors of my 6 rooms. And then she, a maid, came to my door and the words just came out of my mouth, "Yes, I would like you to come once a week." 

Wherever you are be all There.

I recently reflected: as busy as I am getting my classroom ready, commencing my grad classes and trying to tackle that aforementioned dust... I still find myself checking out this world clock a lot.




I almost feel disloyal being happy here. I had such a fulfilling summer. Any lack of connection I felt living in the Middle East last year, was met and exceeded through my sum, sum, summertime. I was sad to leave. And I am sad I'm not there. I was, and am, however, hopeful for this year here. 

It's pretty exciting reconnecting. Saying (and meaning) "It's great to see you!" and hugging people you are truly happy to see. Doing this over and over, does something to you. Sharing happy and adventurous (we are all world travelers!) summer stories with Kuwait-made friends, and acquaintances you realize you really like, does... something. The commonality of coming together with other child and knowledge lovers to gear up for another school year does ... something... something good. 

My Kuwait faves.

Looking expectantly forward to blooming where I'm planted, during year 2.