HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Tonight Phil and I went "trick or treating" for Kuwaiti Dinars! Of course, "the marathoner" costume worked perfectly for our cause and by visiting (only!) three apartments, we raised $40 for TEAM DIABETES!!! The grand total is now $779 and with your help on this SPOOKY evening, we can break the $1000 mark! Halloween is a perfect day to make a donation and by doing so you will be offsetting the sugar damage that occurs every year on October 31st! Not just that, but you can lead into "Diabetes Awareness Month" feeling good :)

Please click on "donate" to make this Halloween an even SWEETER one!

WATCH OUT!

While making dinner....

Lindsay: Phil I need you to turn that on now please (pointing to the oven).

Phil: Just give me a minute!

Lindsay: I don't have a minute!

Phil: No wonder why I don't let you cook very often. You turn into a COOK-ZILLA with that apron on!

Odds and Sods

1) I ALMOST was the proud mother of an orphaned kitten, for the third, fourth or fifth time that I can remember. I was NOMINATED (yep, NOMINATED!) as a "really good home" prospect for a wee kitten who had been tortured with acid. It even came to school to visit me.......

Phil said no. So for the third, fourth or fifth time that I can remember, I am NOT the proud mother of an orphaned kitten.

2) Christmas decorations (including artificial trees!) are out at IKEA. I don't believe Christmas can ever be celebrated "too early", although Phil disagrees with me and is convinced that Halloween must happen first. But, really, if "Fred Claus" and "Miracle on 34th Street" are playing on the television, there are more people on my side than HIS! (With the use of my 'but please, hunnie' face, we agreed on NEXT WEEKEND! WOO HOO!)

3) Today we scored tickets to CIRQUE DU SOLEIL on NOVEMBER 25th!!!! It is in Kuwait for the first time EVER and we have the privilege of being apart of the audience! I can't believe it! It will be a great way to celebrate "one month until CHRISTMAS"!!!

4) I have an arts and crafts trolley. It is AMAZING. It has five compartments and wheels and I purposely change my mind about where to set up my "working place" simply to take advantage of its mobility. I love portable A's & C's....and I am really hoping that someone in our building invites me up for craft time so I can take my trolley in the elevator.

5) Yesterday our taxi driver told us that "Phil" means ELEPHANT in ARABIC!!!! Before getting too excited, I was sure to confirm this with other Arabic speaking people at the mall today (because you know how much I ADORE elephants)! Well - GUESS WHAT?! IT IS TRUE! (And this LOVE must be, TOO!)

Who's More Hurt?

Arriving home after an afternoon of basketball......

Phil: Hunnie, I'm home! I got a black eye from being elbowed in the face!

Lindsay: (runs out from the kitchen) WHAT?!!!! (starts to cry)

Phil: (laughing) Hun, it's okay. I'm okay!

Lindsay: (still crying) I know...but your eyes are already bad. You don't need a black eye to make things worse....

Phil: No, I can see fine! (still laughing....AND LOVING the black eye)

Lindsay: Well your students are going to think that you got into a fight. And they really will because of your attitude!

Phil: I don't have an attitude!

Lindsay: Not all the time.....but sometimes you do. (whimpering)

THIS NOVEMBER - GO BLUE FOR DIABETES!

In the days leading up to November 14th, The Pearl Curriculum will be teaming up with Patti Friday (my Mom!) to bring awareness to World Diabetes Day 2010. In doing so, we will be raising funds for the Canadian Diabetes Association through our membership with TEAM DIABETES. If you wish to be apart of it, YOU CAN BE! Here's how:

1) Make a $14 donation to Phillip or Lindsay by clicking on the "Donate" tab above. Please note the significance of the $14 donation to World Diabetes Day itself and to the discoverer of insulin - Frederick Banting! (November 14th is his birthday!)

2) Get creative. FIND BLUE and CAPTURE IT! If you can't find it, MAKE IT! "Blue" is the only requirement, so allow your imagination to guide you from there!

3) Submit your photo of SOMETHING BLUE to pattifriday (at) hotmail (dot) com (http://www.pattifriday.com/) , where it will be posted and admired by onlookers of the artistic type :) You never know - your contribution to this cause just may land you your next 'arts and crafts' GIG!

Further details may be viewed on Patti Friday's blog.

We look forward to seeing the products of your compassionate talent! Take a camera and GO! FIND BLUE! HELP OUT! HAVE FUN!

Sidenote: Phil is so into the idea of "going blue" that he came home from basketball with a shiner! Yes, lovely shades of blue are decorating his eye area at the moment and I am trying to tell him that dedication doesn't always have to mean pain. Perhaps that will be my "blue" picture. Although at this point, I think it's simply too obvious on his face. I'm up for a bigger challenge. Wish me luck!

Get started now!

1. DONATE: Click HERE.

2. SUBMIT your BLUE image: Email pattifriday (at) hotmail (dot) com - don't forget to include your online contact info, social media info - twitter/facebook - and your website if you have one.

A Walking Diamond.

Yesterday I had a parent teacher conference with a woman who sparkled from head to toe. She was covered in diamonds - her earrings, her necklace, her bracelets, her watch, her wedding ring (MY GOSH - HER WEDDING RING), her other rings.....AY, AY, AY! She looked like she belonged on the red carpet at the Academy Awards, and our conversation was similar to an E! True Hollywood Story. I found out that her husband, father, and brother-in-law are featured in the American textbooks we use at our school. I found out that her current project is decorating the family home and a team of seven engineers were waiting for her after she was finished speaking with me. I learned that she carries three cell phones, and was told the order that she answers and responds to them, based on level of importance (side note: I am always told to call her "priority number"). I learned that she has two secretaries that I can bypass by saying "science teacher". Oh - and I learned that her favourite show is America's Next Top Model. (I should also mention that parts of my "celeb-like" encounter were 'interrupted' with a discussion about her child.)

Not a bad experience to get paid for.

Playing Dress-Up.

Right now I am home alone - having a tea, watching fashion television, and waiting to take out the pink rollers in my hair. I have a hot date with my hubby this evening and I want to look extra-special for him when he arrives home from basketball! I believe it will shock him, as he's used to my "it's the weekend" ponytail :)

The Parkinson Morning Song.

Created during our 'getting ready' routine on Sunday and performed everyday since....

A kiss and a tea and a kiss and a tea,
And an "I LOVE YOU!" and a "YOU LOVE ME",
A kiss and a tea and a kiss and a tea,
And an "I LOVE YOU!" and a "YOU LOVE ME"!

It sounds especially excellent in the elevator on the way to the bus and you will be happy to know that we are beginning to incorporate actions. This morning we had an unexpected audience join us from floor six. Haha, the SUPER CHEESY COUPLE - BUSTED!

Gulf Fat Tax?

Check this out:

http://www.arabianbusiness.com/fat-tax-needed-cut-diabetes-epidemic-357263.html

I think it's a GREAT IDEA!

Dear Abby

A couple of weeks ago my husband, Phil, told our friends that he believes he is Spiderman. Of course I thought he was joking, but he continued to express his connection with the name "Peter Parker" and the super-human qualities of both himself and the superhero. I chose to ignore his claim, but the other day I reached a point where I cannot any longer. His belief in "being Spiderman" is back with even more seriousness since he received his hematology results from the school nurse. Phil has been informed that his blood type is "AB-", the most rare blood type in the world. Only 0.5% of people have the same blood type as him and he is convinced that this is a further piece of evidence to support his true identity. He even made an announcement to a group of colleagues expressing his "true" self. It is never-ending and reputation-wrecking.

Please help me deal with this impossible situation. I am utterly embarassed.

Yours truly,

Wife of "Spiderman"

Team "D" Tuesday, Week #10

This evening we heard an enthusiastic knock on the door. Guess who it was?! Sarge and Captain - trick or treating for Dinars in the Hawalli district of Kuwait! They are aiming to off-set the sugar overload that happens every Halloween by collecting funds for diabetes research, education, and awareness. Make a donation to TEAM DIABETES and help this dedicated crew turn a sweet holiday into an even SWEETER one!

Click on the "Team Diabetes" tab to make your move!

Done Right. Feels Wrong.

Yesterday I finished my report cards in 8 minutes. (Insert "ya right" face HERE). EIGHT MINUTES?! The number of minutes that comes after SEVEN minutes?! The number of minutes that becomes before NINE minutes?! Yes, I did them in LESS THAN TEN MINUTES! And it feels absolutely, disgustingly, "they couldn't have been done correctly" WRONG. No comments. No attendance. No anything extra. Just the grade. Hollas. Finished. Onto the next thing.

We must be in report card heaven.

Go Big or Go Home.

While eating dessert (apple crisp with vanilla icecream)....

Lindsay: Hun, next time we aren't getting low-fat icecream!

Phil: Why?

Lindsay: Because it tastes funny.

Phil: What does it taste like?

Lindsay: Like ice chips.

Not Going to Happen!

While making dinner....

Lindsay: (knowing full well that it is Football Sunday) Phil! I have a really good idea for tonight. We should light candles and turn off the tv and have a romantic meal!

Phil: (gives an "are you serious?" look)

Lindsay: (bursts out laughing) No? Okay....well maybe we can try for next Sunday. (continues to laugh)

BUTTERFLIES.

I feel like I don't see Phil very much anymore. We are teaching in separate divisions, with different timetables and active after-school activities. Right now, he is coaching his team to a victory (I hope!) and I am about to leave for a two-hour tutoring session! Tomorrow night he has a soccer practice and I have a three-hour tutoring session. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday night will also be filled with various appointments that require us to be out and about apart, rather than at home together.

This chaotic and fulfilling life seems to characterize our most recent weeks in Kuwait. Although it is exciting to have our own adventures and responsibilities, I have begun to really miss Phil from Sunday to Thursday! In fact, my "I'm so in love" butterflies are stronger than ever and every time I see him, I get a little nervous. Haha, I'm such a nerd.

But he's so wonderful......

Home, Capitalized.

There they are - Loonette and Molly - two gals who know a comfy couch when they see one! This weekend, Phil and I took a lesson from this clown-doll duo and purchased our own big comfy couch for the living room! Although, we didn't just purchase ONE couch, we purchased TWO...and a big comfy chair to accompany them! It wasn't our intention to walk into the mall and find new furniture, but when a sale is good, a SALE IS GOOD! And, let me tell you, there are NO REGRETS from this newlywed couple! Comfort makes all the difference in a "HOME" and we feel much more comfortable in ours. We will post pictures when the room is complete, but inform you now of the chocolate brown/turquoise decor!

Ohhhh - I feel like Martha Stewart! Growing up is so much fun. Hey MOLLY - don't you agree?!

"The Tea is Ready"

This is what Phil believes when the water in the kettle has boiled. He may also use the phrase "I made you tea" interchangeably with the former. My more experienced tea-drinkers would agree with me that the tea is FAR FROM being "ready" when the kettle whistles! And so, I am trying to make him understand this from an athletics perspective. Here is what I have come up with so far.....

"Hun....it's like showing up for a game at the rink! Just because you're THERE, doesn't mean you're ready to play! You still have to put on your equipment, fill up your water bottle, say good luck to your teammates.......Do you see what I'm sayin'?"

I'll let you know if it is effective or not. I'm sure the laughter we've already had over the issue will continue....especially when I discuss wishing his teammates good luck. Baha - I ADORE MY HUSBAND!

Mad Musicals 6!

Phil and I spent another evening at the Kuwait Little Theatre on Friday night. It was even better than the previous outing, being a collection of musical numbers from some of the biggest Broadway hits. The show began with "Oh The Thinks You Can Think" from "Seussical the Musical" and continued to amaze with songs from Rent, Les Mis, Grease, Chicago, Hairspray, and more! You can bet that our feet were tap-tap-tapping and you can bet that our hands were clap-clap-clapping (haha - sorry, but Seuss has inspired me!). The next show is a much-anticipated pantomime before Christmas! Apparently this event sells out every year. Let's hope we're included in the "lucky ones" who score tickets!!!

Tradition, CONFIRMED!

So we didn't quite make it to the Avenues yesterday. But according to the people who witness our Friday ritual, it is STILL a tradition. The following instances took place due to our change of plans:

1) Phone call from our Egyptian friend at the mall - "Where are you?! Are you okay? I am worried because I did not see you today," he exclaimed!

2) Text message from our friend, Ryan. "Basketball was moved up today. Guess you won't make it because you'll be at the Avenues."

3) Conversation with the Brits - "You aren't coming with us to the Avenues?!".

Haha, I like it. And I think we can call this our very first "well known" Parkinson tradition.

Tee Hee!

An indication we're starting to "belong" here.......

Lindsay: (shocked) Psssssst! JENNY! I just saw two people holding hands!!!!

Jenny: (also shocked) Really?! You should have seen what I saw at the mall the other day!!!!

To Our FELLOW TEACHERS:

We received this message from a colleague the other day. It happened to come on the perfect day (in the sense that it was actually the most un-perfect day). We are paying it forward for those who are also feeling symptoms of "The Dip"......

I hope this finds you doing well during what we often come to realize as one of the most difficult months of the school year. Seth Godin, one of my favourite business thinkers, wrote a book I have found useful to return to over time: The Dip: A Little Book That Teaches You When to Quit (and When to Stick). The idea is represented in this image:




In short, it visually explains the feelings we often have when we start feeling like our efforts are not achieving results. That point at which we want to toss in the towel. What separates those who excel from the others is that they push through The Dip and, in the process, develop that greater level of knowledge and craft that distinguishes them.

Keep this in mind this month as you confront the tough stretch. This is when the real learning happens and, consequently, the real teaching, too.

(Jim Scotese, A Way to Teach, October 19, 2010).

Placing an Order.

Phil: What do you want on your veggie sub?

Lindsay: I want lettuce, tomatoes, onions - lots of them......

Phil: Ewwwwwww!

Lindsay: ........cucumbers, green peppers, jalapenos, black pepper - make sure they don't put ANY salt on it....because sometimes they do....

Phil: (laughs) Anything else?

Lindsay: Yes, mayonnaise. Light mayonnaise.

Phil: I don't even think they have light mayonnaise.

Lindsay: Ask for it anyways. Oh - and you know how they sometimes go down the sub and then back up the sub? Make sure they only go down the sub. With the sauce that is. I don't like too much sauce.

Phil: (rolls his eyes) For crying out loud....

Lindsay: (laughing) I'm serious. One application is enough. Oh - and don't forget to get something for yourself!

Phil: (sighs and leaves apartment)

Lindsay: (yelling after him) I LOVE YOU!

Team "D" Tuesday, Week #9

Considering our strong background in puzzle assembly and MENSA activities, we thought we'd be a lot better at this "searching for a cure" thing. We've looked everywhere for an end to diabetes - high and low, east and west, over and under, outside and inside. We referred to each other with terms to stimulate discovery, such as "Detective", "Charles Darwin", "Angelina Lansbury", and....our favourite....."Sir F.G. Banting". We even requested our mission to be captured in B&W, bringing us back to the roots of all great achievements. Alas, we remain defeated and send out the following notice:

Attention: Problem Solvers with Generous Souls

Please help us in our search for the cure! Your support will bring our long and exhausting hunt to a much-welcomed close and your kindness will be valued for years to come. Donate to TEAM DIABETES and contribute to a mission that will affect millions! Click on the "Team Diabetes" tab to make your move!

Many thanks,

Sargeant Snowflake and Captain Canada

See Ya Later, Honey!

Our Monday schedule:

5:30 a.m. - wake up and get ready for school
6:30 a.m. - catch bus to work
6:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. - school hours
3:00 p.m. - bus ride home
3:15 p.m. - do the morning dishes, have a snack, prep for tutoring and practice
4:30 p.m. - Lindsay heads out for tutor job #1
5:30 p.m. - Phil heads out for soccer practice
6:00 p.m. - Phil begins soccer practice
6:30 p.m. - Lindsay comes home from tutor job #1
6:35 p.m. - Lindsay heads out for tutor job #2
7:00 p.m. - Phil finishes soccer practice
7:30 p.m. - Phil arrives home from soccer practice
7:35 p.m. - Phil starts to make dinner (haha....I hope!)
8:30 p.m. - Lindsay arrives home from tutor job #2
8:35 p.m. - the Parkinson's eat dinner together (FINALLY - some time ENSEMBLE!)
8:55 p.m. - "GOODNIGHT!" (insert 'too tired to roll over and kiss each other' HERE)

Nine.

The number of students I had come for extra help today!!! Their willingness to improve made my day :)

FOOTBALL SUNDAY.

In both the country we came from and the country we came to, today is Football Sunday in the GREATEST sense of the word. Phil had his second game of the season after school today and has yet to return home, staying to watch the game that followed his game...and perhaps the game after that. Although I want to relax with him later, I know that my hopes don't stand a chance! When he gets in, it will be "figure out the game plan for the game" time, followed by "game time". I believe tonight is his night to host the guys, which means I will be early to bed with a cup of tea and a few downloaded episodes of Gossip Girl! I wish he could lay beside me for just a tiny bit, but how could I possibly interrupt the little-boy excitement he has on Sunday evenings? His happiness is too contagious to squash....plus it's adorable.

His love for sports is the sweetest thing.

Under The Sea.

This is how we spent our lazy Saturday afternoon - at the Scientific Center's Aquarium! We made the trip with a colleague and his family and - let me tell you - sharks never STOP being cool. If it weren't so bustling with people, we could have sat in peace and found our zen for the week ahead! There is something so calming about watching marine life pass by......

Our First "BIG" Event!

Here it is - another soiree to add to the oh-so-eventful "Kuwait" memories we've been building.....

On Thursday evening, we attended a "farewell party" for a Pakistani couple who have lived in Kuwait for three decades! We didn't actually know the couple, but we had an "in" with a colleague at work and she invited us to experience her culture in a fancy setting! The party was held in a special room at the Crowne Plaza and we were lucky to be seated at a table with the Brit's, our American neighbours, and an American girl who teaches at our school, too. The food was delicious and on-going (we were informed that they LOVE to feast!) and the games were full of excitement and competition (Richard won chocolates in an altered version of the well-known game of BINGO).

Later in the night (in addition to MORE and MORE food....and encouragement to eat it), they played Pakistani music from the 60's and we all had a good laugh over being the only table who couldn't follow along with the lyrics (handed out to all guests in Urdu). A microphone was being passed around throughout the sing along and different people took turns blurting their heart out to their childhood music. Richard and Phil were disappointed that the much-anticipated karaoke took the format of traditional songs, as they had been practicing "Don't Stop Believing" and other Glee Soundtrack favourites on the cab ride there. Oh well, Jenny and I considered it a positive thing for both our marriages and for the Ambassador of Pakistan, who was also in attendance that evening.

At the end of the evening, each table was asked to recite the poem they wrote to the departing couple. Phil didn't want to take the credit for being the author of such brilliance (really - he's my ROMEO!), so I had the pleasure of sharing it with the crowd. I think they appreciated our effort in making the most of a goodbye party for strangers!

Once that was finished, we (the cool ones) rode the space-ship like elevators a few times before hopping into a cab home and calling it a night.

Here are some photos from our night of SPLENDOR:


FEATURED ABOVE: Two ladies enjoying some "SUPER-DUPER-MOCKTAILS" - a very pretend 'daquiri' and an even-more pretend 'mojito'.

FEATURED BELOW (on purpose): Two men forbidden from even a mocktail. This is what a "too-outrageous-already" companionship does to you. "Just SIT and be QUIET!"

Things that are bothering me....

1) AY AY AY! I have never seen so much fast food consumed by school children......EVER. Healthy eating does not seem to be a priority in this place and it makes me want to scream when I link this to obesity rates and type 2 diabetes. YEESH - it is tough to see the preventable.

2) SLOW THE HEK DOWN! What's the rush?! Why not take the foot off the pedal a smidgen and save lives while you're at it? JEEZ.

3) Trips to the "female" doctor? Hmmm - only if you're married. Because why would a SINGLE woman require medical attention....down there? GAHHHHH.

4) PLEASE and THANK YOU. Two little words that take two little seconds....or less! Does money eliminate manners? It seems to. Here.

5) Take care of your belongings. Be sad when they break. Not everyone can just "buy another one".

Sorry. I feel better now.

P.S. the lemon is a meditative link for certain readers ;)

Necessities.

While browsing the "Office Depot"....

Lindsay: Phil - I NEED these. (Shows Phil a box of Crayola Mini-Stampers - "Expressions" Edition)

Phil: What are they for?

Lindsay: Hun, they are mini-stampers. And these ones are particularly handy for "expressing yourself".

Phil: Okay...but what are you going to use them for?

Lindsay: For expressing myself, of course. Let's say I wanted to write my Daddy a letter.....I would write "Dear Daddy (smile mini-stamper), I (eye mini-stamper) love (heart mini-stamper) you very much (exclamation point mini-stamper)." Do you get it?

Phil: Alright....if you NEED them.

Five hours later, while making a calendar for the month of October....

Lindsay: (Speaking loudly, out-loud, on purpose) Hmmm...October 22nd.....Kuwait Little Theatre to see "Mad Musical" (music note mini-stamper). Ohhhh - October 25th.....our four month anniversary (heart mini-stamper).

Phil: (laughing)

Lindsay: (also laughing) I just want you to know that I told you so!

Phil: I'm glad you're having fun!

BOB THE BUILDER.

Ah - my hubby's new name. He has been in our living room BUILDING THINGS all day long! Thanks to his hard work and dedication to (baha) my "bathroom renovation project", we have two fancy white cabinets (a his and a hers) to organize our getting ready/cleaning up items.

Good job, love. Now - onto my "bedroom enhancement project".....I'd like "us" (baha) to start it tomorrow....

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

To stay in tune with Kuwaiti culture, Phil and I have made "going to the mall" a weekly event (recall: SHOPPING is a recreational event here. It is number two after camping with satellite dishes............and there is no number three.). Every Friday morning (when the traffic is nice and....SAFE!), we journey to the Avenues for some "Starbucks-in-hand" people-watching (last week we watched a fairly accurate representation of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE - LIVE), some big-time grocery shopping (watch-out CARREFOUR, we have a long list this week!), and some "the house could really do with one of these" browsing around (my focus this week is: bedroom and bathroom items). We often consider sleeping in and skipping this outrageous tradition, but always stick to the plan and get excited to head out the door.

Today I am particularly eager to shop around because we are also on a hunt for Halloween costumes! With no "thrift shop" to resort to, this year may take the lead in "costumes that required the most effort" (haha, either through extra tutoring or creative arts and crafts!). On that note, Survivor has concluded and Phil is encouraging me to hop in the shower!

HELLO AVENUES! HERE WE COME!!!!!

Friday BLISS.

Right now, Phil and I are sitting side-by-side, drinking vanilla tea and enjoying some fresh banana bread. He is following "Survivor" on the t.v. and I am reading comforting messages from home.

I couldn't be happier.

Team "D" Tuesday, Week #8

In honour of THANKSGIVING, we ask you to check out our "THANKS" tab! Here, you will find the names of the individuals who have so kindly supported TEAM DIABETES! Your name can be there too! Visit our "Team Diabetes" page to make a donation!!!

Teach THIS!

During an economics class on consumerism....

CONVERSATION ONE:

Teacher: What things did you have to consider before buying your Bulgari watch?

Student #1: Bulgari or Rolex?

Teacher: Okay...looking back at your purchase, are you satisfied with it?

Student #1: No. I should have taken the Rolex. It was more glittery.

Teacher: (no comment).

CONVERSATION TWO:

Teacher: Alright, let's hear from someone else. What things did you have to consider when purchasing your new Mac?

Student #2: Nothing...

Teacher: Well - were you replacing an old computer?

Student #2: No.....I just wanted the newest one.

WHAT do you say in these situations?! Haha.....we are in ANOTHER WORLD over here!

A Queen and Her "King".

While trying to fall asleep in the new bed......

Phil: Lindsay......we have a KING SIZED BED and I have the same amount of room I had with the double!

Lindsay: Yes....because you like to sleep in a ball. If we got an even bigger bed, you would STILL sleep in a ball. I like to maximize my comfort. I take advantage of the space that is available to me....YOU DON'T!

Phil: That's because I can't!!!

Lindsay: Don't be silly. Goodnight hunnie.

When it comes to surprises - one plus one equals.....ZERO!

Today after school, I tried to surprise Phil by coming home early when I was supposed to stay late and he tried to surprise me by staying late when he was supposed to come home early. Haha.....it must be a SUNDAY! Only something this silly would happen on the first day of the work week!

World Teachers' Day

October 5th was "World Teachers' Day" and I don't think either of us realized this until we were surprised with chocolates, cookies, and ROSES at work! These small gestures make all the difference when trying to adjust to a new school. Since the first day we stepped inside the building, we have been recognized as important people and treated as such.

We like it. It's a nice change :)

A Good Night's Sleep, INSHALLAH!

At this very moment we are waiting for a delivery that is bound to make our marriage top-notch. That delivery is........A KING SIZE BED!!! Since we got here, we have been (barely) sleeping in a double and, let me tell you, it is simply NOT big enough. Phil claims that I take up most of the bed and has actually moved to the living room to sleep on the couch, insisting that there is more room on our itty bitty couch than in bed with me. My argument is this: there is no "bed" for me to "take up" when it comes to a "shouldn't-have-been-invented" double bed. How can I possibly occupy something that isn't there to begin with? Beats me! But Phil still chooses to play the whole "she does snow angels in her sleep" card. Haha.....

Inshallah, the king size bed will arrive at "5 or 6 or 7 or 8 or 9 o'clock" (yes, this is what we were told!). If it does arrive, we can officially call the old bed "Dain's bed" (visit soon, DAIN!) and our partnership will move from a 10 to an 11. Ahhh - I can't wait!

CHEER-ME-UP MUGS!

Everybody needs one and we have officially found ours. Miss Barbie and Mr. Spiderman.....for those days when a cup of tea in a "normal" mug won't do! They have already cured one splitting headache and a small bout of homesickness.

What does your cheer-me-up mug look like?!

Thanksgiving Dinner.

Last night we were invited to attend a "Canadian Thanksgiving Dinner". It was hosted by our neighbours across the hall (now rated as A+ Americans) and helped me get over the wee "homesick" cry I had after talking to my Dad earlier in the day. The delicious main courses were prepared by different couples in the building and we joined forces with the Brits to bring fresh bread and a selection of specialty cakes. I also offered to make the centerpiece, a "WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?" turkey. Jenny helped me with the feathers and we asked all guests to write something they were thankful for upon arrival. In the end, we had a turkey decorated with a whole lot of appreciation! Ah - my vision, COMPLETED!

This weekend we give thanks to all of you - those who support and love us through good choices and bad ones. We appreciate the kindness, encouragement, and understanding you have given us and hope we do a good job of loving you in return.

Have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND, CANADA! And, PLEASE - eat a few pieces of pumpkin pie to make up for the slices we've missed!

Lots of love,

Lindsay and Phil
xoxo

Sometimes eyes do the talking....

While watching a television show with crying babies....

Phil: Hun, you're going to take care of our baby whenever it cries, right?

Lindsay: (gives Phil a dirty look)

Phil: Okay....we'll take turns.

Lindsay: (gives Phil another dirty look)

Phil: Okay....I'll take more turns.

Lindsay: (smiles at Phil)

Those SILLY Brits!

During another one of our "who's English is correct?" conversations....

Lindsay: UGHHHH! I can't figure out how to put my new cell phone on t9 word....

Jenny: What is t9 word?

Lindsay: You know...where you press the numbers and it automatically forms words for you? It is much faster.

Jenny: Oh....we call that "predictive text".

Lindsay: (bursts out laughing) YOU WOULD!

Hello?!

I feel this title sums up our work week quite nicely. We were busy, busy this week and received several messages questioning our whereabouts! Well, we are ALIVE and WELL. Here's what kept us from the blog (and the book!):

* TUTORING. I tutored every night - sometimes visiting more than one household in a single evening! It seems a bit overkill to most, but I really enjoy having "biology" time and "middle school" time, since I do not experience either of these at work! The students I tutor are nice to work with, and I am well taken care of whenever I am at their.....mansions. (A cup of tea goes along way with many, but a VERY, VERY FAR WAY with ME!)

* COACHING. Phil is coaching the varsity boys soccer team and frequented many "pitches" this week to complete his try-out process. One of the fields had prime waterfront location, couches for rest breaks, and water/gatorade stations for the thirsty participants. Not surprisingly, this field belonged to a student, who also provided round trip accommodation for Phil and the assistant coach, Richard, to get to and from the field. Things sure are different here!

Anyways, this week we hope to have more time to share our adventures in Q8 (<---- "Kuwait", in cool-student terms). If the city ever fails to be interesting, you can bet our relationship makes up for it!

Team "D" Tuesday, Week #7

ATTENTION: "GLEEKS"

Yes, it's Tuesday. Yes, you want to enjoy good times with the "Shoe-ster". Yes, a bag of chips would complete the evening quite nicely. But, LISTEN HERE! When watching the show that you love the most, why not get up and jam with your favourite characters? Spin around with Artie, raw-raw with Quinn, and frollick with Kurt. They'd love the company....and, as you know, they would certainly embrace the competition! Sue Sylvester said it best when she joined forces with Miss Olivia N.J. for a re-make of the classic, "Let's Get Physical". So have some fun and do your health a favour as you help to prevent type 2 diabetes!

P.S. Embrace the headband.

Bill Nye or Bieber?

It's a no-brainer for me...but try convincing forty fifteen year old's that BILL trumps BIEBER....

Student: MISS! It's important! They're saying he's actually an old man!

Me: Student! THIS (referring to B.N.) IS IMPORTANT! He IS an OLD MAN!

Student: Huh?!

Me: The OFFICIAL wise guy wins today. We'll talk about Bieber once there's proof.

When you think you've escaped....

There are many moments in Kuwait where we think, "WOW - they have it WAYYYY more together than Egypt does!". And then, there are moments like NOW:

I just finished making a THANK YOU card with my new stamp set (shout out to AUNT LAURA!). The "stamping" part was a HOOT and I took advantage of every stamp and ink colour during the process. The "send to neighbours" part was less of a HOOT...and more of a HOLLAR. GAHHHHHHH! As if the adorable notecards DO NOT fit in the envelopes that accompanied them in the "stationary set" that I purchased. TOO BIG?! This must be a prank.

Hmmmmm...are these memories of Egypt or new memories of Kuwait? Not sure. Give me a few months to sort things out.

Until then, "for show" envelopes it is!

COUPLES NIGHT OUT!

Last night, Phil and I went to the "Kuwait Little Theatre" to enjoy a British comedy with other couples from our building. Although it took a while to get there (jeez...at one point I thought we were headed to another country!), it was well worth the drive and certainly worth the price. Most of the attendees (if not all) were expats and judging by the number of empty seats, it seems to be the thing to do in Kuwait! We actually met up with colleagues from the "Singles" building while we were there and headed to a decadent place, called "The Chocolate Bar" for a birthday celebration after the show. The next play is a musical starring a northern Ontario gal who teaches at our school. Tickets are on sale now......and I'm hoping Phil makes an online purchase in the next few days!

WOO HOO! We can add "going to plays" to our long list of recreational activities:

1. Shopping
2. Plays

There. Done. Who said Kuwait was boring?! Haha.

Compliment or Insult?

At the start of class the other day....

Student: Miss, last night I was watching Barney and I thought of you.

Lindsay: You did?

Student: Yes. He reminds me of you.

Lindsay: Hmmmmm.....

LIVESTRONG DAY 2010.

Welcome, October!

Ah - a new month to freshen things up and a great day to give a donation to TEAM DIABETES! Just think - in a mere 2 minutes, you could begin October on a positive note.....and contribute to something that will make the world a better place!

Please visit our "DONATE" page to support PARKINSON'S 4 DIABETES! We are grateful for donations of any size. Remember, every bit helps!!!

An Indoor Ontario?

This is the mall I went to this morning. Can you believe Phil chose to stay home? It was almost like being in Canada.....BAHA.

I suppose it only makes sense that the GREENEST place is indoors.

Whimpering with BIG EARS.

Dear Daddy,

Remember the time we said goodbye in the summer, and while I was crying hysterically you said, "okay Linds, go to lots of cool places this year!"? Well....I should also mention that we're headed to INDIA on spring break!



I finally convinced my Thunder Bay man that India was a GOOD IDEA....and we're teaming up with the Brits for a Golden Triangle Tour.

Great advice, Daddy.

LOVE YOU!

Heartbreakers.

I think you may be able to classify Phil and I as such after this post. And we apologize to the people who are hurt by the decision we made....but we are REALLY excited for what we chose and cannot wait to enjoy the vacation we planned! Well, here it goes.......Phil and I are reluctant to tell you that.......


WE'RE GOING TO SRI LANKA FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(And.....EVEN BETTER....we're meeting MISS EMILY ABBOTT THERE, TOO!!!!!!!! And....ALSO AMAZING.....we're having an "I LOVE ELEPHANTS" theme party for my birthday!)

We are happy. Please be happy for us too.

SENDING LOTS OF "WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH" LOVE TO CANADA.

L & P

XOXOXOXOXOXOXXOOXOXOXOXOXO......

You Live and You Learn!

Last night, Phil and I were out babysitting for a colleague and missed our Thursday night Survivor fix at both the 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. showings. Fortunately, it was also on at 2 a.m. and, being the die-hard fan that he is, Phil set the alarm and woke up to enjoy his favourite game from 2 til 3. Of course, this was an absolutely RIDICULOUS thing to do in my opinion....and I don't enjoy the show enough to ruin my night of rest. So, while he was on the edge of the couch, I was cozy in bed.

You can imagine how funny it was this morning when he woke up to me watching Survivor at the reasonable time of 9 a.m. Haha, and now we know!

Girls ONLY Adventure.

Yesterday after school, Jenny and I engaged in an adventure without the boys. We were eager to check out a book store that our friends had been raving about and ended up exploring even more of our neighbourhood while waiting for the store to open. Wish you were with us, because this is what we saw:

* green, yellow, and bright pink baby chicks
* tiny bunnies wearing floral-print dresses
* a movie theatre featuring IMAX screens...for everyday films
* a cake store meant for extravagant events.....hosted by the most extravagant people
* a "come in if you're rich" fancy gown store (doesn't rich in love count? we went in.)
* a dangerous and scrawny little kitten (think Cruella de Ville, re-incarnated)
* an amusement park with a ferris wheel, a mini roller-coaster, and many various spinning rides

The book store was in the middle of this PERMANENT carnival and was even better than we anticipated! I went home with a travel guide for Dubai, a world map for my room, an "inventors" poster for my classroom, two stamp sets for student work, and arts and crafts supplies for my (fingers crossed) "GIRLS CLUB" at school.

Even with Jenny saying "NO" to the ferris wheel ride, it was a fun way to celebrate the beginning of the weekend.