After our whirlwind month in Europe it really is good to be "home." I know that sounds strange, but it's true. Abby and I have adjusted to life here, and after living in a suitcase for over 4 months it's so nice to unpack and get a routine again!
Abby has started preschool and is doing great. Today is her 3rd day, we've already had the "I don't want to go to school" fit, but once she gets there, she's doing wonderful. She's learning new songs and is excited to share with us what she's learned when we pick her up. The first day was 2 new songs, and the second big A and little a. So amazed and proud of how quickly she has grown up over the summer. The school also offers Islamic lessons and we have opted for her to take them. The Koran is very near the Bible, and I think it's good for her to understand other cultures and languages. Especially when we're living in them!
I have again started teaching at the women's college in Yanbu. This semester I've taken on 2 classes! Basic English for beginners and the second installment to Conversational English that I taught last semester. My basic English course has over 30 students in it! The women are wonderful and I love teaching them.
All in all we have a busy schedule yet again. Up bright and early for day care (which gives Mommy about 5 hours to myself!) and then to college in the afternoons, somewhere in between are the women's activities, cleaning, cooking and socializing for both Abby and I.
Chuck, my husband is also back to work, which even on vacation I have to say I don't believe he ever stopped!
There have been several new additions to the area as well since we left in May. There are several new families on their way, and 2 who have already arrived that are working for Parsons, my husband's company! It's great to see new faces and meet new people - keeps everything going a bit here in our little corner of Saudi Arabia.
Also, there is a new indoor playground at one of the malls in town. We've looked but haven't had time to try it out yet. Abby is itching to get into it though. It has swings, slides, ball pits and trampolines along with plenty of room to just run. Hoping they will offer birthday parties there to avoid the chaos that was Abby's third birthday last year!
They are also expanding the second mall in the town. There is no word yet on what stores may be added, but we've heard rumors of some western restaurants (KFC and Hardees) so we're all anxiously awaiting the completion of the expansion! You have to remember, Yanbu is a small town and it's the little things we all look forward to! :)
Also, there have been 2 new additions in Jeddah, well maybe not new, but we just learned of them. There is an aquarium that has opened. I've heard it's very nice so we're looking forward to a weekend get away in the new future!
Also, a tourist where you can rent villas for the week or weekend. The village is really a resort, but it's right on the sea and you are able to rent jet skis and enjoy the Red Sea for the weekend i clothing. The compound has it's own restaurants and shops, so it's a nice break without having to travel too far away from home.
We are officially 1/2 way through our contract now - wow has the time flew! We are certainly looking forward to a new year, and i will be updating the blog more regular again, now that we're back from holiday!