My Classroom and Some Abu Dhabi Scenes

Church and Taxis

I've been attendingEvangelical Community Church in Abu Dhabi. The church recently built a new building (first picture). Apparently, they have much favor with the local government. I was so surprised by the expository preaching done at this church and in the home group. It's amazing!! In Taiwan and America, where Christianity is acceptable, few preach the Word. However, in a restricted nation, the Word is preached properly.

There are tons of Western shops here including IKEA. I like this store, but my roommate and I need to wait until we get paid!! IKEA blowout! Getting a taxi in Abu Dhabi can be a bit difficult. Sometimes I wait 30 minutes for cab. When one finally comes, I have to fight off people who want to cut ahead of you. However, if you go to shopping centers, you can not hail a cab from the side of the road. You must go to the taxi cue and wait and wait and wait.

I'm thinking purchasing a used car might be a very good investment here. That and gas is cheaper than bottled water!

Emirates Palace

We went to see the Picasso exhibit at the Emirates Palace. One day, I would like to stay in this hotel. We ordered some chocolates which had real gold on them (and yes, you eat the gold). Apparently, it's good for the skin. Who knew. And yes, that is the sea in the fourth picture. It's blue, blue, blue water for miles and miles around. The best part is that I live 5-10 minute walk from the beach!!

A Few Images from Abu Dhabi

There are more Baskin Robbins in a 10 block radius than in all of Manhattan!!! YUM!! :)
(But no Rocky Road...Bummer)!

My New Home

Houston, We Have Landed

I arrived at 10pm last night. Never have I been treated so well as a woman before. The male airport staff escorted me to the front of the lines for my visa and eye scan. The men were made to wait while I got my stuff taken care of. I felt almost bad cutting the line of 50 men. Not! :)

I met my administration last night. They took us to our apartments to get settled in. Mine is located in the downtown area and I'm on the 3rd floor. My roommate is from England. Our place is very large and I even have my own bathroom!!

We stayed up far to late in a returning teacher's apartment. I met a woman from Spain and got to speak some Spanish with her last night.

We have lots of meetings and tours this week. Getting settled in.

I won't have internet access in my home for some time. Please be patient. No pictures yet. I must wait until I get my resident visa to do that. I will try to update from school if I can.

I have a feeling this is going to be a good place for me. Everyone seems so positive, encouraging and very supportive. Very different from Taiwan (in general). I can honestly say that I'm excited to be here. I want to make the most of the next two years.

Just to give you an idea of the weather: Last night it was 98 degrees at 10pm. Today will be around 115 degrees!!

Leaving in a Few Hours

I can't believe it's time to leave already. I've had a rough summer and am looking forward to going, but on the flip side, had a fantastic summer with new family (ei CCN people). I love you guys and will miss you. I look to next summer to spend time with you again...

Do the things I can't do...and do it well with excellence unto Him.