So before we left, the weather began to warm up. The week we left temperatures were between 100-110. I know, crazy for May right? Well, because of the heat and the constant sand storms, it was more than Abby and I could take. Abby has mild asthma, but her allergies were going crazy and poor thing was not feeling well at all with all the sand flying around. So, one week ago, we headed home. 31 hours from door step to door step and here we are, at Grandma and Pop Pop's home for the summer.
I have to post a bit though about life in Saudi since I feel I missed so much in the 7 months I was there! First, the beach (which to me is one of the best parts)!
In mid-April with the weather warming up, we were introduced to a second western beach, a bit further from Yanbu, around 1-1/2 hour drive, but much easier to get to and much nicer than the first we visited when Abby and I first arrived. The beach is call Al-Hassi and it's also protected by the Saudi Coast Guard. The views are amazing, as is the snorkeling and diving there. We aren't able to go snorkeling or diving with Abby - yet - but our friends that go with us do and the treasures they bring back are so colorful and beautiful. Also, the water is so shallow and clear that sometimes fish venture to the edge and we've seen star fish, sponge, coral and non-stinging jelly fish right on the edge of the water while swimming.
We usually travel in a group of 10-20 people, take a tent and spend the entire morning until mid-afternoon enjoying the beach. Abby loves it - she's started treading water with her floats and tries to go under just a little (she will be in swim lessons this summer). It's so relaxing, and although it's hot, there's always a breeze at the beach, so it's not unbearable by any means.
Because the beach is protected by the Coast Guard, western bathing suits are acceptable. It is truly a place you lose yourself. Abby has coral and shells galore - and she tried to sneak home a hermit crab the last time, but Mommy caught him and returned him to the sea! We love flying our kite there and of course building sand castles and playing in the water! It's not only a challenge to get the kids out of the sea, but also some adults. Some even ate their lunch while standing in the Red Sea on our last visit!
Now that we are comfortable journeying there and have good directions, I'm so excited when we return in the fall to visit Al Hassi again. This has certainly become one of our favorite weekend activities - especially with friends :)