Butterfly on the Wall

Drivin' Miss Lazy

2011-06-09T10:41:00.000-04:00

After much consideration and being tired of being a stuck at home lazy bone, I finally decided to begin driving in Kuwait. Actually, being a passenger has been kind of sucking for me. Waiting for the husband to get home or taking a taxi has been "taxing". The shady taxi drivers can be a rip off or a pain in the ass to negotiate prices with before getting in. I've had a couple of regular drivers that have turned out to be huge disappointments because one turned out to be a greedy ass always trying to get more cash out of me and the other one kept sending drivers that didn't even speak English. I mean, this one dude didn't even understand, "Stop right here." Last week, I literally feel out of the cab onto the street and skinned both knees because the idiot parked on a huge curb. So, I'm glad to be done with the taxi cab drama. I know the husband is glad that I am not a "passenger seat driver" to him anymore either. I'm always telling him watch out or slow down.

So today I drove to the Coffee Bean and went to a mall near my house all by myself. No scratches, dents , cuts or bruises. And nobody got the wrath of my cuss out. I told Spanks and she said I sounded excited like I just got my drivers license. And I am. I'm excited and cautious out here on these crazy roads.

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

2011-05-24T16:55:00.005-04:00

Last week at nine o'clock at night, my husband and I were enjoying a movie at home when the doorbell rang. He looked in the peep hole and Uh oh! The weird, swinger, neighbor skank from upstairs! I decided to take my friend's advice... Ignore them at all costs and they'll get the hint that we don't like them and don't want to be bothered. So we continued to watch TV and talk loud enough for her to hear us not bothering to open the door. She rang the doorbell for several times and then I guess she got the hint...

Not! That Ho-Bag came back a couple of days later in the daytime. Still, trying to blow her off passively, I ignored her and called my husband at work. As she continued to ring the bell, I was getting really pissed off. I told him what was happening in case I turned up in a Kuwaiti jail for beating her ass senseless. She got the hint from hearing me talk loudly enough and not answering the door. She left... for a few minutes and then she had her MAID ring my doorbell! All the while, the Ho-Bag hid down the staircase that is visible from my peephole.

I started looking for my keys to open the door. I'm going to have to cuss this bitch out, I thought. But before I could even get to them from my purse, the maid tried to open my door! Yes! She actually started jiggling the door handle. Fuming, I dumped out my purse, grabbed my keys to unlock the door, and literally growled my words at the maid as I swung open the door. "Why are you trying to open my door?! Don't be trying to open my F***ing door!"

The maid looked so scared I felt sorry for her for a second. But I didn't stop my rant. She looked down the staircase with pleading eyes and the Ho-Bag emerged from hiding. Saying, "Excuse me, excuse me..." Like she thought I was going to talk to her. I thought this was a perfect time to direct my fury at her so I cut her off from anything she had to say. I looked her straight in the eye and said, " Obviously I don't want to be bothered by you and don't you EVER try to open my f***ing door again!" I slammed the door, pretty sure she got the hint now. I really hate that I had to do it that way. But I don't want her thinking that she or her perverted husband can come anywhere near me or my man.

The line in the sand is officially drawn.

Help! My Neighbors are Swingers!

2011-04-16T14:21:00.000-04:00

So I take it the subject line brought you here. It wasn't a typo. Let me start from the beginning to paint a more clear picture. This is going to be LONG. For a few months now, I've suspected that my neighbor upstairs is getting abused by her husband. I would hear crying/sobbing all the time during the day and sometimes at night my husband and I would hear running, stomping, doors slamming and screaming and wailing like she was being hit. I say LIKE she was being hit, because I have no proof that he actually hits her, although it clearly sounds that way.

One night, he even locked her out of the apartment and she was lying down in front of her door and crying in her abaya and niqab. I let her come in to use my phone to call her husband, because she told me that she lost her key. (I didn't see any bruises when she took her niqab off) Turns out he had locked her out of the apartment, because he let her in about 30 minutes after she used my phone. He had even called back my number and my husband answered my phone. I was like.... "Tell him that it's MY phone!!" I didn't want her to get "allegedly" beat up again.

The next day, she showed up at my place without the abaya with her sisters and asked if I'd like to join their party. I was cooking dinner, so I kindly declined. They came back later with two slices of yummy chocolate for me and husband. I thought that was so nice. I told her/them that I would visit her for coffee when I got back from Turkey. I was leaving the next day. So, when I got back from vacation, I baked some homemade oatmeal cookies (Thanks for the recipe Spanks!) and brought them along with her plates. She wasn't home. I tried again the next day, but no answer. I didn't want to give her stale cookies, so on the 4th day, I went upstairs with her plates and some Turkish candy I brought back from Istanbul. Now we begin the real story...

This time she was home and so was her husband. They invited me in and the first thing I noticed was how small the dude was. I was thinking, "Girl, you let this little focker beat your ass??" I sat on the sofa and noticed how nice the place was furnished and gave her the compliment. Her English was not that good, but she understood a lot of words. Her husband translated some. After telling her how much I liked her taste (in furniture, not men) she showed me around the apartment. Somehow we got on the subject of music and I told her how much I like Arabic music. By that time we were in the bedroom which had LED lights around the bed. Different. But kind of cool. So, she and I were in the bedroom talking about music and her husband came in then. He told her something in Arabic and she turned on the TV which had MP3's of Arabic music. He told her to dance. And I was thinking .... uh, okay? Now let me tell you my mindset at this moment. I had just come from Turkey and hung out with some great people. They liked to have fun and dance and were cool to hang out with. I was thinking, "Wow, some cool Kuwaiti's"... different, but open. I didn't know how open. So, I sat on the floor and was clapping to the music (off beat), nodding my head and closed mouth smiling... thinking, "Strange." She asked me where my husband was and I told her that he should be awake from his nap.

I went downstairs to get him and said,"Look, we'll stay for 10 or 15 minutes and go." I was really trying to be neighborly. Back at their apartment, the door was left open for us to come in and we stood in the living room saying hello? They called us back into the bedroom. Her husband was relaxing on the bed and she was standing by the TV putting her hair in a bun. Introductions were made and my husband said how nice their place was too. I thanked her for showing me Kuwaiti dancing and said that I had recently been to a Kuwaiti wedding. Why did I say that? Her husband was all encouraging and told her to dance again. I looked over at my husband puzzled. And he looked confused too. Still, trying to not be rude we clapped off beat looking ever so awkward. I wanted to get out of there but I just didn't think. Her husband was like, "Dance, dance. Please dance." So we got off the floor and tried to dance to the Arabic music. She danced with my husband and her husband was dancing near me. At one point, I turned to look at her and paused..."Did she just touch my husband's chest??" I turned back to her husband and he was scooching his pelvic region all close to me. That was it! I was like, "Man! It's hot in here.... Wooo, I'm so tired! I'm going in the other room." I quickly went into the living room. The wife came in there with me and started showing me her wedding pictures. That is when I learned that she is from Saudi, her husband is Kuwaiti and she is the second wife. My husband was in the bedroom talking to her husband. Then her husband said something in Arabic and she was running back to the bedroom. Then her husband came in the living room and sat next to me on the sofa while I was looking at their wedding album. He made small talk and then he started rubbing my lower back and a little of my side asking, "Is this okay, yes?" I immediately said, "No, it's not okay!... And he said, "Why not?" So I said, "Because I'm for my husband and we don't do that!" Then I called to my husband, "We need to go Lulu (grocery shopping)!" My man came out and I was trying to catch his eye so he could see that I was uncomfortable. He missed it. His wife was trying to take my husband back to the bedroom to dance for him and I said, "No, we've got to go." I wanted out of there! Her husband was asking if we could come back later that night for like an hour.... yeah right! I stepped in and said, "No. He's got to work and we've got to go." I moved towards the door and wanted to run!

When we got back inside our apartment. I was like, "He touched me!" I told my man how he was rubbing my back. And my man said, "She touched my back too! Ugggggh!" We looked at each other and said, "What the hell just happened? What the hell did they think was gonna go down!?" Oh my gosh, I want to rinse my brain out and forget this ever happened! I felt like I was in a bad Seinfeld episode. We called Desert Girl on the way to Lulu (grocery store). I said," Girl,tell me I'm not crazy and this is not a normal custom here!" She confirmed that they were not normal but crazy and that we were like the stupid people that moved to a haunted house and wouldn't move.

So the moral of the story is: When in doubt, GET OUT!!!!
It's time to move.

I Love Istanbul!

2011-04-09T12:58:00.000-04:00

Fireworks over the Strait of Bosphorus. An amazing view from our apartment.

I have a friend that I worked with in the U.S. for over ten years... I'll call her Fun Girl. She's Turkish and back living in her home country, Turkey. We haven't seen each other in a couple of years and since I'm so close, living in Kuwait, she invited me to hang out with her and celebrate our March birthdays. Her husband, Shutterbug, who I also know very well, booked an apartment over looking the Strait of Bosphorus. My hubby tagged along for a few days and we enjoyed ourselves immensely.

We arrived on a rainy night and had to walk about a block to the apartment. Apparently, the place we were staying at, was undergoing massive street reconstruction. They were paving the road and relaying cobblestone. Glad I wore comfortable shoes! By the way, if you're traveling to Istanbul, don't even bother packing too many diva shoes. The cobblestones, roads, and stairs will end up ruining them. One thing that impressed me , though, is the fact that the workers paved this incredibly long block in a couple of days. Hmmm... something that Kuwait could learn from...

Our street where we stayed was under construction

Our apartment building was very old; much like Istanbul itself, yet I found it very endearing nonetheless. As for the 6 flights of stairs that kicked my ass everyday... I was not expecting. Like I said, the building was very old. We would all go out and walk, walk, walk. Up and down the streets; seeing amazing things all day and then come back and trudge up those old-ass, curvy flights of stairs. I was so out of breath and thankful when I got to the top everyday, that I forgot to take a picture of them. Living in Kuwait has made me lazy and I had promised myself that after I got back from Turkey that I would kick up my exercise routine. Well, God has got jokes! 'Cause my exercise routine was in FULL effect in Istanbul. To get around you must walk! Although there's every mode of transportation available... buses, taxis, ferries, subways.... You still have to walk up hills and stairs and cobblestone terrain to get to transportation! By the end of the week, I was used to it, though.

Within a 5 minute walk from our apartment was fresh fruit stands offering juice... yummy and nutritious!

Imagine when the flowers bloom on this old rooftop garden ... charming!

The buildings are very old in Istanbul, but I thought the I the mix of old and new textures was cool and artsy looking.

The end of Istiklal Street. The hub of great shopping and eating.

I loved walking up and down Istiklal Street.

A quaint Mediterranean house on Princess Island.

Getting around on horse and buggy, or bicycle on Princess Island.

A local baker with fresh goods daily.

So THIS is how they get heavy furniture up those narrow stairways!

There's a gazillion cats in Istanbul... but hey, no rats! I couldn't resist feeding all the kitties.

Next time, I'm going to try the bikes instead of the stinky horse and carriage to get around Princess Island.

The famous traditional fish boats next to the Galata Bridge. I highly recommend you taste a fish sandwich here!

Local vendors and good eats near Galata Bridge. Close to the enormous spice market.

The Bosphorus bridge in Istanbul. One side is in Europe and the other crosses the Asian continent.

They were playing/singing "Sweet Georgia Brown" Theme for Globetrotters.

A boat ride on the Strait of Bosphorus

I had a fantastic time visiting with Fun Girl and Shutterbug. I must mention, that on the second night, they took us out (me and hubby) and surprised me with a birthday cake and Turkish gypsy musicians played while I belly danced at the restaurant. I had so much fun! I would definitely recommend visiting this friendly city. Loosen your belt because you will eat great food! I have yet to post more pictures. I did get to see the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), the Cistern and the Aya Sophia (Hagia Sophia). I will post more pictures and video after I sort through them.

My first dust storm in Kuwait

2011-03-25T19:00:00.001-04:00

Here I was just taking my lazy nap on the couch, when I woke up coughing. I couldn't breathe well and as I got up to get some water, I looked looked outside the window and couldn't see much of anything except, the dim car lights of the crazy people trying to drive in this weather.

Here's a video that was shot a few hours ago of this nasty storm.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIq1V3wm3s0

What A Gift

2011-03-12T06:20:00.000-05:00

I can't remember the last time I spent the ENTIRE day with a group of friends and somebody didn't get on my nerves. I am so blessed to have amazing friends here in the desert. People who I actually love and adore and with the most authentic personalties. Yesterday, I spent time with LOL, Desert Girl and Slaps. And I had the pleasure of meeting the most pleasant Kuwaiti family who hosted an awesome time at their winter retreat in the desert. I shot an air rifle, fed myself with the best Arabic rice and meat, fed a bunch of chickens and ducks, and fell in love with this little puppy. Good souls, great fun and perfect weather = SMILES

Today is my birthday and one of the most precious gifts I have is a group of REAL friends who lift and build each other up with raw humor, sound advice and not a speck of bitchy jealousy.

Thanks LOL, for my cool and funky henna tattoo.

And Desert Girl, you really surprised me with this super elegant flower arrangement. Thank you! I LOVE purple :) I thought my hubby sent them!

He sent me a yummy edible arrangement.

What a gift it is to be loved!

New Year New Me

2011-01-11T16:13:00.000-05:00

I started a new work out regimen in December; figuring that if I started early, my on set of procrastination wouldn't setle in. So far, I've been sticking my new year's resolution of losing a few pounds.

I've been working out to videos online at Exercise TV. They have great videos that you can stream for free or for a $9.99 fee a month, you can have unlimited access to hundreds of work out videos. I get bored easily with the same routine, so this is working for me.

Rain!

2010-12-31T05:45:00.000-05:00

How symbolic. It's raining on New Year's eve in Kuwait. Well, it's morning on Dec. 31st, but it's still symbolic to me. I've been here almost 7 months and almost forgot the smell of rain. What a treat on this day... Washing away the old and in with the new! Have a Happy New Year!

Taba Heights, Egypt Vacation

2010-12-18T09:42:00.006-05:00

I was so excited about going to Egypt for the first time. I had some awesome highs and some big ass lows; Mainly due to travel and transportation FAILS. In my last post, I was at the Cairo airport with the husband waiting for 5 hours to the connecting flight to Taba. We flew in using Egypt Air. First mistake. Never again will I use that crappy ass airline. Customer service sucks. The flight attendants didn't look happy. Smiling at your customers goes a long way with me. And they seemed annoyed when asked questions. What's up with that? I mean, the condition of the plane was shabby and old. The seat I was in had some dirty ass looking ashtray still on the armrest. I felt squished in like a can of sardines. In my opinion, I was one step above flying with the chickens and goats. After 3 hours, we landed in Cairo and I was happy to stretch my feet.

After 5 hours of trying to stay awake in the ghost town airport, we hopped a tiny plane to Taba. In a little under an hour, we arrived at Taba airport! Hurray! Well, not so hurray! I thought there'd be an Egyptian welcome wagon... sort of like Hawaii. You know, instead of hula dancers with leis, there'd be smiling attendants eager to show us to baggage claim and loads of taxis to take us to the resort. Not! It was a one room weigh station. We got our bags in minutes and headed outside with the rest of the pack. We were literally in the middle of the desert. (Click on the pictures for a larger view.)

Desert mountains and rocks as far as the eye could see. There were a few buses and one van outside. To make a long story short, the van that was supposed to take us to the Taba Heights resort left us. Apparently, our name wasn't on the list and even though we were holding our hotel confirmation, the driver refused to load our luggage and take us. I was pissed. We tried calling the number on our confirmation and it was the wrong number! My cell phone was on the fritz, there was no internet, no pay phones. I got scared then. Everyone spoke little or no English. For a moment, I thought we had come to the wrong airport. I had a hissy fit and started to cry. A security guard came to our rescue and after making some calls, he was able to find the number to the hotel and arrange for a car to pick us up. A few tears and 30 minutes later, we were off to the resort. I was in a terrible mood... for about 15 minutes. Then I saw my first glimpse of the sea on the Sinai Peninsula.

After miles of desert and mountains, I was so excited to see the beautiful ocean!

We asked the driver to stop so we could take pictures of this beautiful site. We ended up in this cove a few days later, on a snorkeling excursion. About ten minuets and an armed passport/checkpoint later, we arrived at the resort.

The Sofitel main entrance

I would rate the Sofitel at Taba Heights a 4 star hotel on a 5 star location. Here's a video peek at the main entrance and lobby.

The check-in counter was to the right of the lobby fountain, behind th glass doors. When we got there, the manager had heard about our ordeal at the airport and he was very apologetic. Even though, the problem was had because of my travel agent, he treated us to an ala carte dinner at the Asian restaurant there. The hotel is all inclusive, however, some people tire of the buffet choices (We didn't!) so there were 3 restaurants at the hotel offering ala carte menus. Also, there was a free shuttle running to the other four hotels on the island. Many choices for food and excursions. And all the alcohol you could drink!

Our room itself had a great view.
Click to see my room video here.

The Plaza Room view from the enclosed balcony. You can see Saudi Arabia just off the horizon.

We lucked up on the room with the best view! Room 308

Pool side looking towards hotel restaurant.

Poolside overlooking the sea and Saudi Arabia in the distance.

I was impressed at how beautiful the scenery was. It was like I was walking in a picture from a travel magazine. Nature painted a perfect backdrop for this amazing hideaway.

A view from a walk up trail

A great view of the entire Taba Heights resorts

This walk up trail is next to the Hilton which was next to the Sofitel.

Here's a video from the beach... sorry, it was a little windy that afternoon.

The only thing that bothered me was this smell that would come from bathroom after the water was run in the sink or shower. Needless to say, we brushed our teeth with bottled water the whole stay. I didn't come for the water in the room anyway. We came to have fun and fun we did!

We went to Colored Canyon and hiked an amazing trail. Although we were surrounded by canyon sand and almost no plants, the air was free from dust and smelled fresh like clean air should.

I was surprised to see vegetation in the canyons.

The canyon textures were stunning to see.

A camel! How'd they do that?

Colored Canyon

A view of Colored Canyon

A Bedouin home. That camel was real! He looked so thirsty and dry that I thought it was a statue at first.

One of my favorite times was on a quad bike excursion through the mountains. I felt like Laura Croft on Tomb Raider!

After almost drowning on my first attempt... I'm not a very good swimmer... I learned to snorkel (with a life vest) and saw beautiful fish and coral.

We snorkeled around Pharaoh's Island. This is the fortress of Saladin.

This fish came right up to the camera! Doesn't it look like its smiling?

Underwater pictures and video taken with my Olympus Stylus Tough 6020 camera.
5m/16ft Waterproof.

I'm still trying to figure out what kind of fish this was. An eel of some sort?
It kind of scared me so the video is only about 10 seconds.

An Indian Lion fish.

A sea cucumber.

This is the coral that the fish eat. Coral is a living organism that takes years to grow. I avoided touching or damaging it when taking these pictures.

On our last day in Egypt, our flight back to Kuwait had a 10 hour layover, so we decided to tour the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. We even took a camel ride.

I avoided the stinky gifts they left on the ground.

Say cheese!

The city near the pyramids was crowded and dirty/dusty. Don't wear your nice shoes here.

The Great Pyramids of Giza

The Great Pyramid

The original entrance (North Side)to the Great Pyramid that is sealed.

The second entrance that visitors may now enter. To learn more about these entrances of the Great Pyramid go to http://www.guardians.net/egypt/gp1.htm

It was surreal standing on the stones of this pyramid.

You can see the original sealed entrance above and the intrusive entrance below it.

View of the Sphinx from the street.

The Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Khufu

Once we got back to Kuwait, I could have done without Egypt Air losing my luggage and being rude about their oversight. We did manage to get it 24 hours later. We had to go back to the Kuwait airport to get it, though. If I wasn't clear about it before, let me say it again... Egypt Air sucks! Now that's all said and done I will say that I'm grateful for being able to visit this place that I've always wanted to see. I enjoyed my Egyptian adventures and my lazy time at the Taba Heights resort. I recommend bringing along a very good world phone when traveling to another country. A GPS with additional travel guide and information would be good too. Although the problems I had worked out in the end, I will be more prepared next time. I'm looking forward to venturing out to other areas of Egypt... any recommendations?

Life List, Egypt... Check!

2010-11-28T01:30:00.001-05:00

I had the most fantastic Thanksgiving at LOL's. We cooked and stuffed turkey together and invited an array of international friends. From Germany, Canada, Ethiopia, Scotland, Spain. It was really cool to share our American tradition and mix it up with an international flair... and boy, could LOL's friend from Germany, cook!

Now, I'm sitting here at the airport in Cairo, still with a full stomach from Desert Girl's post Thanksgiving barbecue, earlier last night. What a wonderful way to end a great week with friends. Great food, hilarious company, and now I'm putting a big fat check mark on my to do's life list... Egypt!

I'm stuck here in Cairo's ghost town airport for 4 hours. On my way to Taba. I'm excited to see what Egypt has to offer... ready, set go!

It's Better Than Cirque Du Soleil

2010-11-18T18:01:00.001-05:00

Last night, I had the time of my life hanging with LOL, Desert Girl and Slapperella at my first Kuwaiti wedding.
I got the girls all gussied up at my house.... slumber party style. Lots of giggles and roll on the floor laughing. I loved how my hubby made us a fruit tray and bought us pizza; then he disappeared to let us do our thang. A-plus baby, for becoming invisible and deaf to our howling laughter and fabulously inappropriate girlie talk! Afterwards, we snapped some pictures and we donned our abayas. We rolled out the door covering our stylish and sexy dresses. We were running a little late, so Desert Girl was behind the wheel clipping corners like she stole it. Picture me flopping around the back seat trying to finish pinning LOL's hair up while miss lady was fish tailing. Hilarious.

When we got to the location, the ladies at the entrance greeted us so nicely. Actually, it was mostly family in the lobby and we got to meet the bride before she made her grand entrance. I was in awe of all the glitz and glam. White makeup, sparkles, eyebrows snatched back more perfect that Ru Paul's... This definitely ain't no Western wedding, I thought. No men around, so yay! The abayas came off and we made our way to the seating. All eyes were on us.

The music was roaring with traditional tunes sung by live singers. The room was decorated beautifully. I was expecting to see crazy textures and colors that didn't match, but the decor was quite elegant and tasteful. From the velvet wall coverings to the daintily covered chairs. Not too long after we sat down, the bride made her entrance. I remembered sitting up straighter and oooing and aahhing like when I was a kid at the circus. I turned to Desert Girl and shouted over the roaring speakers that this was better than Cirque Du Soeil. I mean, it really was. It was like the most spectacular, extravagant, drag-queen royalty parade you ever saw! Now I see that the queens in the states are probably trying to mimic these girls. And the hair! I so want to buy like ten bags of weave and practice one of those Grecian x 3 hair-do's.

After the family danced around the bride during her walk to her seat on the throne, we decided to dance. Well, me Slaps and LOL did. Desert Girl sat and cheered us on. The ladies on the dance floor were kind enough to show us a couple of moves and we joined right in. I don't know how to Arabic dance, but I do know how to salsa and rumba! A little shimmy here and a little shimmy there... waving my arms a bit, I sashayed my ass up and down the runway. I had so much fun laughing at myself and enjoying the music. I think most of the women there were proud of us for joining in and trying.

There are two negative things that stood out, unfortunately. And it's a shame too because I know a lot of thought and money was put into the decor. Although, the dress I got from Debenhams was glamorous and elegant... the spanks rolling down underneath were not. I had to take a "powder" moment in the bathroom to give those suckers a pull up. I KNOW you ladies who wear them know what I mean. Slaps and LOL went along and boy what a trifling mess that bathroom was! Soaking wet floors and wet tissue all over the place. I thought maybe I would use the restroom too, but decided against it because there was no dry tissue anywhere except the half dry nasty balls of tissue all over the floors. Then I thought, OK let me walk to the back so I could hike up my spanks... I walked towards a stall holding my dress up so it wouldn't touch the floor. I was looking down to watch for water puddles and uggggh! What is that??!! Remember that caterpillar toy from when you were a kid? Well, some nasty ass woman decided to take a dump on the floor and it looked like this except it was brown. Seriously, lady? The toilet was right there!

I mean, WHO does that kind of shit? No pun intended. Well, maybe a little pun. Anyway, the other thing that was a turn off was the food. I am a germaphobe in case you didn't know. I had no plans to eat any of the buffet, but I didn't want to appear rude when one of hosts of the party waved us over to come and eat. Me and LOL went to the buffet. The place where apparently grace and manners go out the window. Pushing, bumping, stepping on dress tails. First we couldn't find any clean plates and when we found a server girl she had a crate of freshly "cleaned" plates. Before she handed each of us one, she wiped them with a corner of table cloth! I had to consciously close my mouth. We went around throwing a few things that looked good on our plates and proceeded to stand in the middle of the buffet room and nibble so our hostess would see us eating the food. But after I saw like 10 women taste testing and eating with their forks out of the serving dishes, I thought I was going to be sick. We left our plates on an abandoned table and bolted back to the dance hall.

I can't remember if it was before or after the meal, but when the time for the husband and men came, we all had to put on our abayas. It was a fun ad festive entrance as the men danced and threw money up in the air for the couple. It reminded me of the baller style dudes in a strip club... Make it rain! As the men and the groom's family danced along the runway/dance floor. The music was so festive and lively. I thought it was a shame that all the covered ladies barely tapped their feet. Oh, the difference from a moment ago. LOL had said how sad that the men couldn't see how beautiful all the women looked and I agreed. Afterwards, a nervous looking bride was escorted out to live at her new family's home. We all danced again till my feet and legs hurt. The ladies on the dance floor got more comfortable and chatted with us as we danced. Mostly, just wanting to know who we were married to and where we were from. It was funny to see as we got nods of approval and hearing them go off in Arabic about what they thought of us. Smiling and nodding. I wondered if it was all good. But I really didn't care, I had just gone to my first Kuwaiti wedding!

The Atlantis in Dubai

2010-10-29T14:02:00.001-04:00

The hubby and I had the most wonderful time in Dubai. We were so busy trying to do everything that I had to come back to home to Kuwait and take a vacation from my vacation. We stayed at the Atlantis and flew in using Emeriates. Let me just say that I love the purple colors on the plane. The seats and aisles were more roomy and I enjoyed the personal video monitor at my seat.

It was so cool to watch the the front view (what the captain was seeing) and the belly aerial view of the flight. We even got a meal even though the flight was just a little over an hour. The flight was indeed more pricey than the other airlines, about $100 more per person. But we wanted to ride in style and it certainly was an upgrade.

The hotel entrance was classy looking, filled with sea shell and ocean themed pieces.

The first thing that grabs your attention is the enormous geyser fountain in the middle of the lobby.

The decor and finish in every part of the hotel was grand. With the sound of the water fountains, to the aroma of essential oils and softly playing music; the experience of strolling through the hotel was utterly relaxing.

The outside views were just as amazing. It was truly a five star experience as far as the overall appearance and upkeep of the hotel. And the staff worked tirelessly and with a smile to keep every guest satisfied.

The views outside were just as amazing and very well kept. It was a royal experience.

The panoramic view from our room was a joy to see from the terrace. It's hard to believe that this massive oasis was man-made.

We took a stroll at night on the walkway and discovered where the water park was located. With a quick trip from the regularly running shuttles (about 5 or 10 minutes) we were off to our water world adventure.

As a warning, the water park will cause you to have severe laughing spells. Those with serious sticks up their butts should avoid this experience as you will be sure to have a good time.

I am happy to say that I took "The Leap of Faith". This slide was awesome and scary and breathtaking fun. I highly recommend it.

After feeling like a kid and lazing around a couple of days, we swam with the dolphins... err, actually, waded with a dolphin named Cathy in shallow water since I couldn't tread water for a half an hour in the deep end. We got to kiss, hug, play, pet and dance with Cathy. This was a highlight for me as I truly love dolphins and their playful nature.

Although we only stayed for four days, we dined at a couple of restaurants in the hotel which were divine. And even went out for a night on the town to dine at the Emirates Towers Vu restaurant which was truly a 5 star meal. We also managed to visit the Burj Khalifa Tower which is 2,217 feet tall (828 meters). The tallest building in the world that was just completed this year. The observation deck was way up there with clouds... literally! I was so in awe of the towering height that my feet were tingling.

Our short trip felt longer because we had so much fun. I'm looking forward to going back soon.

In Dubai Beeooch!

2010-10-19T18:14:00.000-04:00

Finally! I'm in Dubai for more than just a quick visa extension. Staying at the Atlantis hotel and LOVING it so far. Time to get off line and live life...

Driving Me Crazy

2010-10-01T15:41:00.003-04:00

Before I came to this country, I read that Kuwait has one of highest car accident fatality rates. Now living here, I see how it's true. I am often terrified when riding in a car or taxi. The ride usually consists of me holding the overhead grip at least once because of some insane driver in a rush or not paying attention. I've also noticed an alarming number of people who don't wear seat belts. And children playing on the dashboard.

Keeping all of that in mind, today, the hubby and I spent a couple of hours at the Kuwait Scientific Center in the Aquarium. Just some good old fashioned family time. The aquarium is much smaller than the massive ones like the Georgia and Tennessee Aquariums in the U.S. but I still found it to be filled with unique and interesting specimens like bats, penguins and killer sharks. The video touch-screens describing each exhibit were a nice touch as well.

On the way home my cheerful mood was grossly violated when not 2 minutes away from the Scientific Center, we drove past flashing lights and an apparent car accident. An SUV's front end was run up on the curb and 3 police cars were on the scene. I was thinking, "Oh, not another accident. I hope no one was..." And then I saw him. A man was lying on his left side in the fetal position. I thought maybe he was in pain, waiting for an ambulance. He wasn't moving. Then I saw the top of his head. There was a gigantic hole in it and his brain was spilling out from his skull. I squeezed my eyes shut and wished that I had not looked. Other than a funeral, I have never seen a dead body. After feeling very scared, shocked and very sorry for the man, I began to get very angry.

First of all, I should never have seen that, no one should. I started thinking that I had just come from a place where there were hundreds of children, and that many of their families were probably right behind us in their cars. What if I child saw that? There were enough police cars on the scene for one of them to have covered that body. Police officers are often the first responders and they should have survival kits with a blanket in their trunks.

How can this culture cover up a woman's body in an advertorial photo by blacking out too much leg or photo shopping a fake shirt on a woman because it exposed too much cleavage but no one rushes to cover a man's brains spilling out on the street? Censorship is so strong in this country. OK I get it. But what about real life? It just seems backwards to me. Speaking of backwards, on the WAY to the Scientific Center, we saw a local driving an SUV with a sun visor on the front driver's side. It covered the entire window! I know he couldn't see the side view mirror. I guess he thought he wouldn't need it since most of the drivers here just lane jump with out looking anyway. I just keep thinking about that poor, unfortunate man. Was he trying to cross the street? Did the car just jump the curb? Or did someone like the dumb ass I saw earlier ( that couldn't see properly from the drivers side because he was driving with a sun visor at night) decide to not slow down because everyone here seems to think they have the right of way? What happened to pedestrians having the right of way? Is that even a law here? It should be. But then again... the traffic laws don't seem to be enforced here.

Top ten things that trip me out in Kuwait

2010-09-26T07:39:00.000-04:00

10. Roasted Camel... need I say more?

9. Teased hair exposing extension tracks.

8. Halloween...I mean, wedding makeup

7. Clerks that follow you around the store to "help" but know NOTHING of the products that their selling.

6. The special higher price for Americans at some retail locations.

5. The blatant theft of intellectual property. Using another company's actual logo or name. Such as: Facebook Cafe, Dior Salon, Best Buy, Batriq (using a turned to the right McDonald's M as their B)

4. Little kids playing outside after midnight.

3. Five year old Bedouin boys selling nuts and candy at traffic intersections.

2. Niqab wearing drivers that can't see peripherally and cause auto accidents. AND it's my fault if

she hits my car!

1. Women who use 30 volume hydrogen peroxide to bleach their face and body. :-( That causes cancer!

Stop the madness and just continue to wear Kabuki white makeup instead.

"Settling" In

2010-09-13T06:57:00.000-04:00

I have come to discover that being settled in Kuwait really means lowering your expectations and being happy with what comes your way. After sleeping on the couch (a big cozy couch) for two weeks, our bedroom furniture that we had made finally came... late of course. Everything is Inshallah here. Mind you, we moved into our new place during Ramadan. So, I was surprised, when they rang the doorbell at one in the freaking morning! I was like WTF? Dang! I've got to cover up and put on some appropriate clothes and shit? Plus, the husband had to get up for work at 4:30 AM. I was so pissed. And the bed didn't even get here until the NEXT day. So, finally when it got here the mattress smelled like formaldehyde and stale cigarettes. Like, the workers in factory made the mattress in the warehouse stitching with cigarettes hanging out of their mouths with no ventilation. We kept sleeping on the couch to let it air out for a few days and covered it with a flannel blanket before putting sheets on it. I still smelled it though. I have a nose like a dog. Just ask the husband. When he's at the front door. I can tell if he ate garlic for lunch. So now I sleep on top of the duvet to not put my face near the mattress. Oh well, that's what we get for buying a cheap ass mattress. I just didn't want to drop a wad of cash on a mattress that we were just going to leave here. I thought, buy a cheap mattress, and invest in an expensive matress cover that we can take back home. So now, I'm shopping around for a thick, mattress cover to mostly mask the factory odor that I still smell and to give it more bounce. Although, the quality is really that not bad at all.

During Ramadan I became addicted to the X'Box game Dragon Age. The husband thinks it's cute because he's a tekkie gamer nerd himself... My handsome tekkie nerd. Anyway, being that mostly everything was closed in the day and the city came alive like ants to a grain of sugar at dusk; I kept my ass in the house for most of Ramadan. And Oh! These people cannot drive! Also, I think the people that drive here think that a car horn is a musical instrument. They just honk their horns randomly, for no reason at all. On the few occasions that I did go to a mall or store, I usually left in a pissy mood because some hungry ass person was in a rush or would try to cut in line in front of me. I don't know what it is here, but some of the "entitled" folks think they can just march their ass in front of me. One night, a woman in an abaya cut in front of me AND shoved me with her bags. I was so in shock! I had to stop myself because she was about to get a straight New Jersey cuss out. That's where I'm originally from. The hood. I would like to say that all my years of schooling and hard work have diminished the hood in me, but alas, this so isn't true. You can take the girl outta the hood, but not the hood outta the girl. I am humble and sweet, I am. But you invade my space or take me there. I will show you where I was born. I turned to the husband and said through gritted teeth. "I'm about to GO off. I'm about to GO to jail. She just cut in front of us and pushed me!" As I was looking at him, my eyes were wide eyed and my lips were pursed. He pleaded with me not to make a scene. I just spoke loudly and said "How is she just going to cut in front of me like that?! Who does she think she is!?" A clerk quickly opened another register and waved us over to try and avoid a confrontation. Before I walked away I bumped her ass right back. I was SO mad. I went home and told him not to bring me out until Ramadan was over.

Now that Ramadan is over. My sleep is normal. I wake up in the morning... not the afternoon and my skin is thanking me for the sunlight. I am no longer a vampire playing video games until the wee hours. I have everything that I need, and mostly everything that I want in my home. I've been working as a freelance stylist for weddings, and I'm feeling like things are finally looking up in Kuwait. I'm finally settled in.

Honey, I'm Home!

2010-07-30T20:08:00.000-04:00

Got the key to our new flat. Mission accomplished! We didn't end up renting from the first very nice owner we met last month. Things fell through... moving on.

Got a lovely flat in a corner villa with a beautiful garden to boot. I'm relieved to finally settle in a place that I can decorate and call my own home while here in desert ville. Now, let's get to the business of shopping. I hope I survive all the Ramadan madness sales.

I've Been "Possessed"

2010-07-29T14:54:00.007-04:00

Boo-hoo, waaaaah, bitch, bitch, moan. I've been a whiny new form of myself since I've been here in Kuwait. And not the usual craziness that's caused by my gender. I really had to catch myself the other day, because I'M sick of me right now. Realistically, I'm aware of the fact of what negative thoughts can do to you. How they start in your mind, then you start believing the thoughts and then the absurd untruths whirling and twirling around in your mind, spew out of your mouth in the form of vicious word vomit. We all do it at some point or another, and I've been guilty.

I've never experienced so many setbacks and disappointments until I got here... New country, new rules... things getting done at SNAILS pace. I've been so mad at my husband's sponsor. Holding up his passport and ruining our anniversary trip for August. We've been apart for 18 months with 4 month visits in between, so when I got to Kuwait, I thought that we'd be in the honeymoon phase and planning trips and going places RIGHT NOW. I'm a right now kind of girl. God is working on that in me. And if there was EVER a place for me to experience this thing called patience, it is right here in this country.

I've been taking a lot of deep breaths and in between a moment of peace and succumbing to Acceptance; my sweet, loving, ever-patient husband bought me this Piaget Possession ring.

I fell in love with the craftsmanship and meaning of this ring. I tried looking for this exact piece all over the internet but couldn't find a picture. Come to find out, it is a limited edition design released for the Kuwait opening of Piaget in 360 Mall this year and I got the last one. I am possessed... with the good stuff. Grace and people who love me. Most of all, I'm possessed with the love of an encouraging spouse. That's really all that matters in the end. I'm choosing not to be binded by the negative crap that periodically crosses my path. Thanks for the exquisite reminder, honey!

Weekend Warriors

2010-07-10T15:57:00.007-04:00

I got my feet wet... I mean, dusty this weekend. Went out with some friends and let this bitch kiss my husband.

Well, she stole a kiss actually, but he couldn't resist her advances. She's just so darn cute...

Me and the husband broke bread with Desert Girl, The Aggie and a new friend I'll call Star at the Muhallab at the Palms.

I had my first serving of Arabic coffee and it was OK tasting. A bit bitter and earthy. It smelled like myrrh. Not sure what's in it, but I'd try it again. The fish and rice dishes were delish! The tea after our meal was yummy yummy and I drank too much. I was scared to pour myself more tea since I was sitting right next to the hot coals the teapot sat on. I'm still all googly-eyed about the differences in culture, but find it fascinating and interesting none-the-less. The service was 5 star although the setting is comfy and cozy and very family friendly. I'm looking forward to going again.

The next day me and the husband went to The Avenues. I love, love, love P.F. Changs! We had a nice time shopping and browsing. Until... I had to go to the bathroom. I've already been to the restrooms in The Avenues and find the facilities very nice looking and well attended to. I like how there are plenty of stalls. There was another lady right behind me when I entered. I didn't turn to look at her at the time. All of the restrooms were occupied when I first came in, but after a few seconds, since I was first in line, I took the next available stall.

Without all the details of my business in the toliet... I was quick. I just thought I'd share this for details sake. As I was washing my hands and looking in the huge mirror that all the stalls have, I noticed that the desert air had gotten to my hair. OMG! I was looking like a mixture of Diana Ross and Chaka Khan in the 80's. My hair was twice as big as earlier because I had come outside with damp hair. No air drying here ladies. You need product and a blow dryer here! So anyway, I took a few moments to brush my mane. Then I felt the need to blot my makeup. I was humming along as I primped. Then some lady knocked on my door. I said, "Yes?" She replied rather rudely, "Are you finished?" My reply was, "What!? No!" Then I proceeded to take my merry-ass time... Re-brushing and re-touching my makeup. Who did she think she was rushing me? I don't think so. Afterwards, I opened the door and a woman wearing an abaya was standing right in the doorway. I stood standing there for a second and looked left, then right. And said, "It SURE looks like there's a lot of doors in here for you to be knocking on!" And went on my way... continuing to hum. I heard her suck her teeth and give a "Hmmn!" with righteous indignation. I was so annoyed.

I'm not sure if she was the one behind me when I came in. But if she was, why the hell did she try to rush me when all the other doors were occupied as well? Did she make assumptions about me? Do I look like someone who can be pushed around? Not this sistah. I do tend to change my looks often and can sometimes look exotic in the face. My style of dress is trendy/classy. Some people here have even approached me speaking Arabic when they speak English as well. I've been told that I look Native American, Egyptian, Indian. I descend from African and Native American... But who cares? I don't play that caste system shit here. I really didn't take that long in the bathroom. And even if I did, that would be my business. Shoot, I could have been doing a courtesy flush in there and needed more time, even though I didn't. The bottom line is that rude is as rude does. Be rude to me and I'll be just as snotty and self-righteous to you.

The MASK Store... I mean MAC Store

2010-07-06T20:43:00.002-04:00

I worked for MAC Cosmetics in my early days as a professional makeup artist in the states, so I was excited about visiting the MAC store in Kuwait. I promise you, I'm no hater when it comes to another artists techniques, but jeez! I was in a state of shock upon entering the store at the Avenues. I can understand wearing a little more coverage if your feeling a little insecure or perhaps a bit more pimply. But DANG! Some of those girls working there looked like they were wearing skin-toned kabuki masks! And not in a pretty way. Punched up blush? Sure, I'm for a little more sometimes, but PUNCHED-ON, unblended blush that goes way down to your jaw line doesn't look good on anyone. I was really expecting to see more polished looking staff working there since MAC is a cool and trendy cosmetic line.

I was very disappointed to see the poor counter practices, which means in the states, poor sanitary habits. Typically, when eye shadows are displayed for public sample, the potential customers should be encouraged to use disposable cotton swabs when trying on eye colors. There were none present. When hundreds of women circle their dirty fingers on all those pretty eye shadows... hello? Germs form. Oil from skin contaminates eyeshadow and you can usually recognize when bacteria is present by looking at the condition of the makeup. The surface looks spotted and or bumpy and it will have a ring of discoloration. It is time to trash the makeup when it looks like that! Styes and pink eye are highly contagious. If you're going to get your makeup done at ANY cosmetic counter, pay attention to the state of the cosmetics you're sampling, if the the artist uses spatulas, hand sanitizer and clean makeup brushes. INSIST on cleanliness and demand they open new samples if necessary.

Pity Pots Cost A Lot

2010-06-27T06:28:00.002-04:00

I've decided to get off my pity pot. Feeling sorry for myself wastes too much time. Nothing has been going my way and I'm used to controlling everything. Being in Kuwait has forced me to be patient. I've fallen in the shower (I got so mad that I just showered with the curtain and rod on the floor) Burned my head with a curling iron (Nothing a little makeup can't fix) and we lost the apartment that we wanted. The guy gave it to someone else because we didn't put any cash down. Lesson 1 learned: See a flat you want, put money down. In Kuwait, it's all about the cash. After boo-hooing, snapping at the husband and having a couple of "pajama" days, my ass( or is it my ego?) is hurting from this damn pity pot... either way, I've been acting like an ass and I'm tired of being pathetic. I'm in a brand new country, yes. It's a little scary, yes. But I am with my husband and that's the most important thing. We had a little pow wow session this weekend and we are focused on team "US"... back in the game... Back to square one with finding another apartment. But that's okay, it's not like we don't have a roof over our heads right now.

Moving...Already!

2010-06-19T20:54:00.008-04:00

Whilst I'm grateful for the company housing that the husband's job so graciously is providing, I'm at odds with the location. We currently live in an area that is crazy full of construction. It seems to be part of Kuwait's decor. When I look out my window, there are grand villas across the street... lush, colorful and grossly expensive villas. There are huge, unfinished villas across from them; generously decorated with dusty piles of rubble and dirt. Two streets over from villa land is the hood. Or the ghetto as I call it. And next to that? More piles of rubble and garbage. I guess they don't believe in waste disposal here. It's down right trifling.

With that being said, we decided to go apartment hunting the other day. I got an email from a friend who said that someone came to her office specifically looking for Westerners to rent to. Perfect timing and the price sounded right up our alley. Deciding to kill two birds with one stone, we also called a listing we found online in the town nearby the referral from my friend. When we got to the first location, the referral, the husband and I were extremely impressed with the layout, design and size of the apartment. It's situated among other established villas and has minimal construction on the block. I'm just glad that I can walk outside and not get dirt and dust all over my clothes and shoes. We won't have our car until next week so we came to the location in a cab. The owner of the apartment, a very well dressed Kuwaiti man who spoke relatively good English, was kind enough to have his driver take us to another location to meet the real estate agent of the OTHER place we found online. Talk about niceness. He seemed confident that we'd be calling him back.

Fast forward to the meeting place... McDonald's. The woman pulls up in a Jeep with a lady passenger in the front and tells us to follow her. We explained that we don't have a car and she responds in an accusatory tone, that WE should have let her know that. She went on to say that she didn't have much room in her Jeep. At this point, I wanted to tell her to forget it then. I really was put off by her attitude; not to mention her attire, but I'll get to that later. The husband looked at me like, whatcha wanna do now? Just as I was about to tell her "peace out"... she insisted that we ride with her and warned it might be a tight squeeze. Her passenger, partner, or who ever she was got out to let us in the back seat. She was wearing a wife beater, tank-top, wrinkled capris and flip flops. Not a good look for showing an apartment, I thought. We crammed our way into the back and WTF??? I couldn't breathe because the interior REEKED of cigarette smoke. I mean, it smelled like they were using an air freshener called Rodeo Road House. They started conversing in their language... I'm guessing Polish... which I thought was rude as hell. So I looked over at my husband and told him in Spanish that this car stank of smoke and if my hair smells like cigarettes when we get out, Imma be pissed. There are things that you don't do to a sistahs weave. Touch it, or blow smoke in or around it when she JUST washed it an hour ago. We got to the apartment in just under 4 minutes, so I finally let out my breath. I grabbed some of my 16 inch wavy hair cascading on my back and smelled it. I didn't care if that Realtor was looking or not. Luckily, it didn't smell.

The place was a high rise. On the way up in the elevator, I noticed the two chicks were checking out my attire. I was thinking keep looking beeches, you could learn a thing or two. The one lady who was the driver and apparently the contact person, was in her 50's. She donned a disheveled pony tail like she had been mopping ALL the floors in her house ALL day. Wearing the two tank-top style, showcasing her armpits and wrinkled capris... What I'd wear to clean my toilets. Who, in their right mind, wants to rent from someone dressed like that? They complimented me on my jeans and top... but I caught them eying my jewelry. The apartment was not to our liking. It had a sea view, but the apartment looked kind of crappy inside with old fixtures and a bad paint job. We quickly said no thanks. She then offered us another apartment for a higher price. I said sure, lets take a look. In the lobby and on the way to her funky vehicle, she made a statement that really pissed me off. She said that my husband didn't look American. That he looks Egyptian and that he should cut his hair shorter. WTF??? My man's family is Salvadorian... I know he needs a haircut... I'M HIS HAIRDRESSER! The box with my hair clippers is sitting on a pallet at the APO. But, who did this bitch think she was telling me that? What the hell was that supposed to mean anyway and what were AMERICANS supposed to look like? I felt a cuss out coming on... But I smiled and grit my teeth and said, "You can't see that he's Latino?" She said, "Yes, after closely looking and hearing his American accent." Like all was well and OK after inspection.

We rode in that stank-ass car for a minute or so and came to a nicer looking high rise. The place had a sea view and nicer furniture. It still was no match for the unfurnished apartment we saw earlier. The husband and I went to the living room to tell them thanks for showing us blah, blah, blah. And do you know what those two nasty, trashies were doing? SMOKING! Sitting on what would be our furniture... IF WE HAD WANTED THE PLACE... and chain smoking like old ladies in a retirement home. Are you SERIOUS! I began backing out of the apartment and the husband followed suit... backing our way out of the smoky-ass living room. And the chick followed us! We're backing out and she's walking towards us. Ugh! She put out the cigarette and said if we want the place, they will need first and last months rent... blah blah blah. I couldn't hear because I was losing oxygen. I just nodded my head and kept walking. Then she had the audacity to say that her fee would be 200 KD. I bobbed my head towards the hubby and tried not to laugh out loud. He said, "Thanks, we'll let you know."

When we got back to fresh air we laughed. "IF" and that's a big if... As if I were high on crack... we were going to pay somebody 200 KD to find us an apartment that we can go directly to the owner ourselves for, it wouldn't be to a racist, chain smoking, icky, chick like that.

We called the Kuwaiti guy back and tried not to sound desperate... Whew! Moving in next week. Thanks M!

Al Manshar Rotana

2010-06-16T23:32:00.010-04:00

My husband and I stayed at the Al Manshar Rotana hotel in Fahaheel for my first weekend in Kuwait. I was reminded what region I am in when hotel security stopped our vehicle and scanned it with explosive detection devices. I thought, whoa, they really just checked our vehicle for car bombs! Comforting, yet not so comforting thought on my first night in Kuwait. I was reminded about the imminent danger once again, when we had to walk through a metal detector in the hotel entrance. The hotel is rated a 5 star, I would give it 4 stars since I believe that 5 star hotels should be aesthetically pleasing 360 degrees around... There is a beautiful pool on the roof over looking the city.

However, on the opposite side of the hotel is construction. Actually it looks like construction was halted, so the area on that side of the hotel looks dirty, dusty and baron. I forgot to take a picture of this unsightly area.

I noticed many locals in traditional clothing that were apparently staying there, but thought it odd that the music playing on the roof was American hip hop.

The rates are relatively pricey, however I found the service to be rather good. On the second day, my husband called down to the desk and no one answered, so he hung up and said that he supposed it was busy. About 30 seconds later, the clerk from the front desk called and apologized for missing the call and proceed to answer his question. I thought that was pretty cool. We enjoyed massages and sea salt scrubs before we checked out... In separate rooms. No sharing the experience together here. Not in this country. A word of warning to the shy, you will be nude for the body treatments. Although the therapists are professional in covering you quickly after you disrobe, it would have been nice to know ahead of time that the treatment is in your birthday suit.

I notice the little things when I visit hotels and I liked the electronic room keys that work by placing your key card in front of the pad. And the "do not disturb" feature was a cool touch as well. Once inside your room, you can leave your card in the slot and a bed icon lights up for the staff to see on the outside door so as not to bother you. Those little touches may not mean much for others, but I like the techie stuff in hotels. The husband and I like unique bathrooms. We've been dreaming up ideas on how to re-do ours back home, so when checking out the bathroom digs, I really admired the marble shower stalls... Very roomy and the rain faucet fixture was heaven. I have never seen a retractable clothesline in the shower. I thought that was odd, but useful. I am not that well traveled... yet. I've only been to the Bahamas, and islands in the British West Indies... so I've never seen a bidet. Heard of them, but never "experienced" one. I giggled when I saw it in the bathroom.

We took advantage of the complimentary breakfast inside the hotel and sat outside on the balcony overlooking the attached mall. The food was remarkable and I enjoyed having my eggs made to order and brought to our table. The waitstaff was quite attentive.

All in all, I would recommend the Al Manshar Rotana hotel in Fahaheel, Kuwait.

First Day in Kuwait

2010-06-14T17:14:00.002-04:00

I made it to Kuwait! Man, the heat really is like walking around with a hot blow dryer on your face.

Because I used a meet and assist service, it only took me 2 minutes to get my visa. Really, it only took a couple of minutes! I felt like royalty when I got off the plane and an Asian lady with a red jacket was standing there holding a sign up with my name. The young lady also walked me around the airport and took pictures of me since I was wide-eyed with tourist like amazement. We sashayed through that airport so fast... Basically, I was pushed to the head of the class. And I'm glad too, because if you're an expat, getting off the plane and entering the terminal can be confusing. There are no signs, no directions and when you follow the pack of other lost expats and visitors... you find yourself standing in front of the visa counter where there's a man just sitting there smoking a cigarette and chatting with his buddies... He gets to you when he gets to you. So needless to say, I would recommend using the escort service BEFORE you get here. If you don't, you run the chance of getting lost or you'll have to follow the rest of the lost visitors. While sitting for my couple of minutes, I noticed a couple of packs of 20 visitors asking each other... where do we go? where's the line? where's the form? I even got the evil eye from a few when my escort waved me over and handed me my visa to sign in the time it took them all to mindlessly survey the area. They looked puzzled, miffed, and was probably thinking, "Who the hell is she?" Well, I said I felt like royalty.

When it came time to get my luggage, that process was just as fast. The young lady escorted me to the baggage claim area and snapped her fingers at a nearby porter. There was a family that was clearly there first and they tried to get his attention, but he ignored them and made a beeline for me and my escort. They didn't look too happy either. I was like, whoa! Shocked, but honestly, I didn't really care about anybody else at that time because all I wanted to do was hug my husband. Speaking of hugging my husband, I asked the lady was it acceptable to hug my husband and she looked at me like... girl please.... and said, "Pshaw, you have an American passport!"

My luggage was not on a carousel, it was lined up next to a carousel with other traveler's luggage... I suppose the workers pull it off and line them up. I don't know. I was glad that I had tied purple tulle to identify my two bags quickly. After the porter loaded my bags, we all walked to the X-ray machine and my purse and luggage was loaded on the belt. They didn't open any of my luggage, only my purse was searched in front of me. The security guard tried to look official and intimidating, but I was looking him up and down like, dude, you better not spill any of my liquid makeup on my Coach bag. Every time he pulled something out all rough like, I would quickly pick it back up and gently re-wrap or package it. He picked up my mini contact solution bottle and asked me what it was. I pointed to my eye and said for my contacts... I mean, like dude, can't you read? I was getting a little pissed, because he was sloppy and slow, pulling out my contents and I was hoping that I didn't have a tampon or something in there. Finally, a supervisor or something came over and waved him to stop and he pushed my purse back in my direction with a caveman grunt. He didn't scare me. But he would have been scared if he spilled my makeup.

The waiting area was close by and the lady asked me if I could see my husband in the waiting crowd. Looking left, right, left... I couldn't see him. Then finally, I eyed him timidly standing with his hands interlocked. I was thinking, why in the world is he just standing there all scared looking? Then I laughed out loud because I knew he was afraid that I would run and leap into his arms and kiss and wrap my legs around him like I do at the American airports. I remembered where I was.... There would be no kissing him like the end of an American love story. I gave him a conservative hug and whispered in his ear, "Get me outta here so we can kiss!"

Little Wonders

2010-05-26T00:30:00.000-04:00

Around this time last year a bird had made it's nest in my rose tree in front of my patio. I think some sort of rodent got to it because one day there were four eggs and then another day there were two and then the next day they were gone. Last month I noticed a new bird's nest in the same area, so I took a picture hoping that the eggs would stay untouched. Here's a picture of the eggs.

I wish I knew what kind these are. I wonder why the eggs are differnet colors. The little bird protecting her nest is just a tiny brown bird. I'll have to do a bit of research.

Anyway, today I was going to treat the roses for blackspot, but decided against it because they hatched! I took a couple of quick pictures before the mommy came back... but she was close by chirping at me. I made sure not to touch them.

Life is precious.

Kuwait: Before

2010-05-21T18:30:00.002-04:00

Yay! Three weeks and counting before I land in Kuwait. I'm sure it's going to be quite an adventure. I'm feeling less nervous because I've been fortunate enough to make some good contacts that live there now. One friend, Desert Girl, has been there from the start. This chica has the funniest and most informative blog. If you want to know the real deal Kuwait, I would definitely recommend her as a good read.

Some other Kuwait blogs and forums I recommend are 2:48AM, Crazy in Kuwait, Blog Catalog, Just Landed, InterNations and Expat Exchange. Of course, if you are traveling to another country besides Kuwait, you may search that relevant country in the forums. I'm sure there are many other good sites, but these are the ones that I have visited and have found to be valuable. Feel free to post others that you recommend.

One thing that I suggest before even going to Kuwait or any other country you've never been to, is to join sites and forums geared towards life in that country. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Also, it's helpful to not be so incognito and hidden as many people are on those sites. If you are real to the 100%, then chances are that you will make some good contacts and authentic friends.

Time to get off this computer and get to packing...

The Bitch on My Back

2010-05-02T21:58:00.002-04:00

For several days now, I've been feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Not to mention, I've poked and prodded my husband's unending patience with my bitchiness. I mean, you would think after finally getting the news that I will be in Kuwait with my adoring husband next month, that I would be on cloud 9 right? Not so much. It's not that I'm not grateful for everything good that's come to me, it's just that lately I've been feeling tired, crappy and weighed down... like I have a bitch on my back. And I guess that bitch is PMS.

I've been dealing with this bitch for several days now. I've tried drinking a little wine, eating salt and vinegar chips and indulging in chocolate. (my usual monthly remedy). None of that worked this month. I even got off my lazy ass and hit the gym. I over worked myself and was so stiff that I could hardly bend my legs and arms for a few days. So I booked a 90 minute hot stone massage with my massage therapist. I told him that my stress level was high and to hit me hard with the hot stones. During my treatment, I asked him to press harder with the hot stones and I made a joke that I really needed him to beat the bitch of my back. I never talk much during a massage except to tell the therapist where I ache, but this time I told him that I was having trouble crossing all the lists off in my head and that I was PMS-ing badly. He said that he could relate to the lists in my head and that he would pray for me... pray for my peace. At that moment, he was digging a hot stone in my back and forcing my resistant muscles to relax, but it was as if he literally spoke peace into my spirit and I began to cry. Quietly, and softly at first, but then I asked for a tissue and began to sob and blow snot and sob. I told him that I wasn't crazy and that I was glad to cry. He said that emotional therapy is a big part of massage and that's what it's mostly for. I cried a little more and said, " I am not perfect, and I can't do everything." I realized that the bitch on my back was me. I've been working too hard, achieving goals, planning, doing, creating... but not resting my mind and my spirit. I'm glad I took the time to listen to me. So, one thing at a time. One thought at a time. I am not perfect. But I m perfectly happy with who I am. And I am in need of a siesta. I am looking forward to joining my husband and landing in the sand on June 11th.

Climbing Mountains

2010-04-11T03:40:00.003-04:00

Last week, the weather here in GA was absolutely perfect, so I finally convinced my aunt to climb Stone Mountain. She's been living in GA for 4 years and she shamefully lives 10 minutes from the park. Stone Mountain is one of the world's largest piece of exposed quartz monzonite. (Many people say that it's granite, but it's actually quartz monzonite... just a useful factoid.) The walk up trail to the top of the mountain is mile long; but add 786 feet in elevation and exposed boulders and rocks to climb, and it will be a work out for your ass... literally!

Last year, I climbed it at least twice a week and discovered a new found hobby... Geocaching. Basically, treasure hunting for sport. I found an official monarch butterfly coin, for which you can track online. The owner of the coin wants it to travel far, so I'm planning to take it to Kuwait and find a geocache there to send it on it's way. If you you're a person who like to hike, walk, or bike outdoors, I definitely recommend this sport to break up the monotony. There are over a million geocaches hidden all over the world!

So, as my aunt and I were walking (and taking breaks) and walking. I found myself giving her words of encouragement. Partly because I didn't feel like walking back to my car half way up the bitch (I don't like quitting.) and mostly because I think people should cheer on and encourage people who are doing things for the first time and feeling intimidated or unsure of themselves. I mean, have you ever had someone invite you to do something that they were clearly great at, but you had never tried before? And then they embarrassed you or belittled you as they actually competed with you to make themselves feel better! Or what about those haters that never get off their own asses, but criticize you for trying something new? I can't be alone in this observation... talk about the things that tick me off ... Anyway, on to my story. My aunt is a pretty spiritual person, so when I noticed that she was settling her tushy a little too long on a boulder, I shared with her something that gets me to the top when I'm feeling tired or lazy on my hike. I leave something on the mountain. Something that I need to lose and don't want to bring back with me. Sometimes it's a pound or two, but pretty much every time I climb Stone Mountain, I give it my anger, my confusion, my resentment, my fear of something, etc. That day, I told her that I was leaving my procrastination because lately I had been starting projects all over the house and making lists that I never crossed off. Pretty much not getting a damn thing done. After the pep talk, my aunt got a spark underfoot and was hitting the steeper peaks like a veteran hiker. Around the last 50 yards or so, it gets pretty steep and to keep my pace (and my peace) I start giving the mountain what ever I intend to leave behind, so I left her to make it on her own. I quietly told her that this is the point where everybody has to climb their own mountain and that she could make it to the top on her own. I waited, I watched and I cheered as she made it to the top. I never asked her what she had left behind. I was just proud that she did.

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-27T19:18:00.006-04:00

For some reason on another spring is the beginning of my new year. Perhaps it's because it's my birthday month or because it's precisely the time of year that the purple redbud trees in Georgia are the first colorful trees to wake up from their winter slumber. Arguably, the massive white dogwood trees also let you know that spring has arrived, but color overall makes me feel alive.

This is the month that I'm busy clearing the cobwebs from my garage and the cobwebs from my head. I live by essential oils and aromatherapy. Last week, while doing a few eyelash extension services, I concocted a cobweb clearing solution for the mind by adding 7 drops of Lavender oil, 3 drops of Clary Sage and 1 drop of Peppermint oil to my table top waterfall. It's also a great recipe to add to an oil burner. What a mood lifter! Try it and let me know what you think. I love new essential oil recipes and welcome any other creations.

Spring is also the time that I prune my trees and shrubs, dig in the dirt and am forced to tackle the weeds. I'm an avid gardener. Recently, I discovered that life is much like gardening. In order for your life to flourish, you have to treat the weeds. Sometimes pulling them up and out helps, but when the repeat offenders invade your space, hit them with a more permanent solution... and be done with them. Digging up weeds is a great way to relieve stress and metaphorically get rid of the energy that you may have absorbed from an aggravating person or people in your life. Be vigilant and don't be fooled. There are all types of weeds out there. Some have roots that run very deep and wide and will suck the life out of anything in the vicinity. Then there's the chummy kind, that look pretty; masquerading as a delicate flower. And need I remind you of the crabby kind that need no introduction because they always pop up smack dab in your face with their openly, rude intrusions? Arm yourselves, and get ready this season. Be ready and recognize the type of pesky weed you have in your zone. I don't do weeds and neither should you.

My last and most fun spring ritual to do is to take my ivy, sedum or houseplant cuttings and honor them in a quirky resolutions pot. Write down everything you want to change, or anything you want in the year to come. Get a thin, permanent marker or paint and write every last word around the pot until there's no space left. Get creative! I paint clay pots over the winter and decorate them with crystals and bling and write things like: Laughing really, really hard * Healthy Friends * Divine Presence* Room Service* Having My Prayers Answered* Perfect Timing* Watching Sunsets* A Trip to Venice* Letting Go Gracefully Without Regrets* Smiling Inside... These are a few actual things on my pots. The nice thing is, as you water your new plant or cutting, you are metaphorically caring for your hopes and dreams. I trust that if you do this, everything you write will come to fruition. As my plants perk up, I will post some pictures for more ideas. Until then, happy spring cleaning!

Happy Birthday Mom

2010-03-23T01:55:00.001-04:00

Rushed; hurried; engaged; the day unnoticed

I marked it with an X without even seeing

I think I feel something familiar

In the middle of my being.

Wrapping thoughts around myself,

I forgot about that other pain...

The frustration of not hearing your laughter,

Or to hear you call my name.

March 23rd: The day you called out to the world.

October 8th: The day you reached out to God.

March 23rd: The day you called out to me.

I think I feel something familiar.

Buckets of love flooding,

Flowing; thoughts of your embrace

Remembering the last kiss upon your face.

I think I feel something familiar...

Love

Never

Dies

Happy Me

2010-03-14T12:43:00.002-04:00

I'm in a bit of denial when it comes to aging so when I turned 37 on the 12th, I honestly forgot how old I was. About ten years ago I vowed to be 25 years old for the next 5 years. Oh well, I might as well keep the lie consistent and be 30 for the next decade. I think I look good for my age and I feel like I'm still in my 20's anyway. My hubby bought me some new Coach sandals and a purse. When they came in the mail I wanted to tear those red bows off and revel in my new treasures but I emailed him instead. About four hours later he Skyped me and I was able to let him see me open my gifts in utter glee. Later, my aunt took me to lunch and then off to the jewelry store for two Chamilia beads. (I'm such a Chamilia whore.) I have almost every color. My gift to myself was a trip to the lady doc for blood work to test if I have plenty of eggs. I want to be a mama soon. I hope to get good news in a week.

Highs and Lows

2010-03-09T00:52:00.003-05:00

So it's been a minute since I checked in... I've been working nonstop (BIG problem to have... I should have reasons to complain about this more and more) I worked on an indie film and a beauty makeover show. High and low points? Highs: Being paid early and meeting and working with very talented and fun people. Lows: An annoying crew member on the film set that CONSTANTLY had plumbers butt. I mean, seriously, did he not feel the air up his crack every time he bent down? And he bent down a lot...Jeez. Other than the mother of all ass cracks I've had a very busy and fun few weeks.

Lately, Kuwait has been on my mind. I should know within two weeks when my hubby and I will be together in Kuwait. Corporate bureaucracy... blah blah blah. I've been shopping for less sexy American gear for my desert adventures. Booooooooooo! I wish I could just be me to the 100% when it comes to my wardrobe, but alas, I get enough attention as it is. I could just see me with my hands on my hips shaking my finger at some ogling Kuwaiti man. I hear the men stare a lot at pretty Western women. I mean, I'm not trying to sound conceited or anything but men from my side of town don't hide the fact that they're checking you out... Gets on my nerves a lot. I think it's just the way that they look at me... sometimes dudes grunt like they're actually having an orgasm. I mean damn, man, my pants aren't that tight. Some men should get a clue and learn to check out women sneakily and secretly like most women do. It would sure make me feel less violated. Catch me on a bad day and look at my ass too long and you might get the cuss out. On a good day, I'd smile and coyly make you feel like a piece of shit with a quick witted comment. I'm just saying.

I've been in a weird mood lately. Too many people have been trying to give me their opinion about what I should do with my life... And I didn't ask for the opinion. Can't stand people like that. I'm getting negative. It's time to focus on the good. I feel like I'm standing at a fork in the road. One path leads to "What Other People Say", another is stamped with a sign leading to the town of "A Painful Past" and the other Says "Do You".

Just gonna live life and do me. I seek peace and a happy family. I will create one with my husband. I am grateful that I have a supportive, loving and generous husband that would give me the last beat of his heart if he could. I am blessed with friends that will hold my hand and walk over fire with me if they had to. I have every single thing that I need to live a comfortable life and opportunities that arise to bring me the things that I want. Overall, I would say that I'm pretty fucking happy.

Consulting With Your Stylist

2010-02-12T04:59:00.002-05:00

As I've said before I'm a hair and makeup artist. A professional working in film and television for over 10 years. I've styled celebrities, presidents, news anchors and everyday women.

Business women, stay at home moms, divas with nothing to do except to look fabulous... The average women are my favorite types of clients because I truly enjoy the transformation process. I take pleasure in bringing out the very best look buried beneath the surface. And feel a sense of purpose when that woman learns to keep it up. With that being said, lately I've been bothered by those kitchen beauticians and salon horror stories that sound much like this: "I told her/him to take an inch, but look how short she/he cut my hair!" "This is not the color I asked for!" "I can't believe he/she charged me for this sh@!" "My hair fell out after she/he gave me extensions!" "I look terrible!".

I could go on and on about the rantings of unsatisfied customers but the one thing that rings true to every good style gone bad is that "they didn't listen." Granted, there are terrible stylists out there masquerading as professionals, but most good styles gone wrong are due to poor communication... on both the stylist and the clients part! So before trying out a new stylist or salon let me give you a few tips on how to consult with a stylist.

Your stylist should ask you questions pertaining to your service. I will use hair extensions as an example.
Let's say you have shoulder length hair and you want long flowing locks instead.

1. Before moving on any further, Why do you want them? Is your hair thinning? Do you want fullness all over, or only in the back? It is important for you to explain to your stylist why you want them. Do you want to secretly be a temptress with sexy flowing hair? Do you have a professional career and want just a little extra length? Be sure to tell your stylist if you want layers, or volume or a sleek funky hair cut afterwards. Don't be afraid to tell your stylist a little (or a lot) about your personality. Bringing a picture is always a good idea as well.

2. What type of hair are you adding? Straight hair? Curly hair? Straight hair that waves when wet? The texture of the hair greatly matters when deciding on which hair installation service you want. Be sure that you choose a texture that greatly matches your own, especially take notice of how it reacts when wet. Does it match your texture when wet? When it dries? If not, you will have to give it extra care and groom and maintain it daily. Which brings us to...

3. How well can you manage the hair once installed? Can you use a curling iron, flat iron or blow dryer well? The quality of the hair you purchase is the most important thing. I prefer to use the highest quality hair. Virgin hair, which means that it's hair that has never been chemically processed. Or Remy hair, which is virgin hair that has been altered chemically with color or permanents. If you buy cheap hair, know that its flowing shiny luster will not last long and you will be required to use heat and/or styling products every day to keep your hair looking nice. If you know that you don't like to use products and curling irons or rollers everyday, then buy hair more suited to your own styling experience. You like bone straight hair? Then don't but wavy, you will have to flat iron it after it's washed. You like long curly hair? Then buy mousse and conditioner or it will look like a dry mess after a while. You get what you pay for.

4. Do you want a more permanent lengthening or do you plan to take them out everyday? There are several ways to add length to your hair. A quick and convenient way is to use clip-in hair extensions. You may purchase prepackaged clip-ins. They usually come in 5-8 pieces with wefts varying from 2-8 inches in width. Or your stylist can customize clip-ins for you incorportating highlights and show you how to install them yourself.

5. Bonded/Glue- This is a quick and temporary extension method to add streaks of color or volume and length lasting up to 2 weeks. A special adhesive is used sparingly on the wefts of extension hair and bonded close to the scalp. To prevent damage to your hair always use the special adhesive remover when taking them out. I also highly recommend using a hot oil hair treatment after removing this type of extension.

6. Weaving or Sew-ins- A hair weave is sewn in a clients own hair that is braided down into cornrows on her scalp. A large curved or straight needle and thread is used to sew wefts of hair for the desired look. It takes from 2-4 hours.

7. Hot Fusion - This method of extensions is achieved with a tool similar to a hot glue gun using colored adhesive sticks depending on the color of the clients hair. Hair is separated into tiny sections and the extension is installed strand by strand like tiny micro braids. This process is the most expensive as it gives the client the most versatility in shampooing and styling and it's very time consuming. It takes from 5-15 hours. The adhesive should be removed by your stylist to prevent any hair damage.

8. Cold Fusion/ Micro-Links - This is my favorite type of extension to perform on any client. The method contains no heat and no adhesive. Using a copper tube and hook, the client's hair and extension strand are pulled through and clamped together flat. The results are long lasting. (8-12 weeks) Depending on fullness desired it can take from 3-8 hours. Your stylist can remove them with a plier type tool that reverses the flatness of each copper tube.

All extensions do not cause hair damage. Styling has risk, as long as you hire a stylist that is experienced and trained and you follow the home care instructions; you should have no hair damage. Although I used hair extensions as an example, most of this example can be used for getting other services as well. Remember, the more detailed the information you give and the questions YOU ask your stylist, the better your overall experience will be.

Butterfly Philosophy 102

2010-02-07T02:31:00.002-05:00

Life is like a train ride.

Some people come on board and then get off at the next stop to connect with other trains. Newcomers emerge and go further along for the ride, but later may decide to get off. You might let some of these passengers get back on your train later along the line. Others, you may never see again.

Some people ride on your train and their baggage is so heavy that you have to pull up at the next stop and let them off.

And then there are those rare crazies that you have to seal the doors shut and tell em, "Not on my watch!"

But once in a while you have to squish those crazy bitches on the tracks and keep it moving.

I prefer to have passengers that will ride with me all the way to the end of the line.

Wal-Mart's Shabby Practices

2010-01-27T01:42:00.004-05:00

A couple of months ago I wanted to bake a pie and realized that I didn't have any eggs. I went to Wal-Mart during the dreaded Thanksgiving rush, grabbed a cart and decided to grab some last minute " I forgots". When I got to the eggs section it looked absolutely gross. There were cracked eggs all over the railings and many had fallen in between the grates. I lost my appetite for the pie. I took a picture with my camera phone and when I got to the checkout line I asked to speak to the manager. The cashier looked concerned and asked me if I was alright. I told him that I was until I looked at the eggs section. I showed him the captured image and after looking shocked and apologetic he immediately waived over his floor supervisor and showed her. She then called for the store manager.

About 2 minutes later the store manager appeared so I told him how disgusting and unkempt the eggs section appeared. I went on to explain that I once had salmonella poisoning and explained that it is a terrible sickness to feel and that if that area is not cleaned immediately that his customers may be at risk. He apologized, quickly waived a few floor workers over and said that it would be cleaned immediately... Well...

I went back to the store a week later and guess what. It still looked the same except the broken eggs in the grate were crispy and cold and STILL THERE. I was tempted to call one of my producer friends at my job and get this on TV some how. But then I thought, naaah, this is not a big enough story. I just left and didn't buy any thing that day. I shopped there about 5 more times since November and fast forward to today and tada! It's clean and it only took 2 months to clean it.

I thought this would be the end of my story today, but no, there's more. I was in a very good mood today. I had bought some new beads for my Chamilia bracelet, gotten my nails done and had finally seen that the eggs section in the Snellville, GA Wal-Mart was clean. I've been going through this phase of intending positive things and only seeing the good in people. So, as I shopped in Wal-Mart today I felt a pep in my step and was noticing all the beauty around me... Cute kids with their parents, a clean organized store, no long lines, a smiling and polite cashier..... THEN.... as I get to the door to leave with my purchases in the cart. A big, fat, old lady blocks my path and abruptly asks to see my receipt. Now usually, I say no and keep walking, but her standing in my path caught me off guard so instead I threw up my hands and said that I couldn't find it. Then she walk along side me looking in my cart and said, " I need to check your receipt for that case of water". Now mind you, Wal-Mart bags full of purchases were sitting on top of the case of water I had just bought. Her tone and manner immediately pissed me off (What ever happened to my happy place?) so I said, "Actually, LEGALLY I don't have to show you anything, but here it is anyway." I saw it on top of one of my bags, and I said it in a naa naa naa naa naa tone. I held the receipt for her to inspect and she tried to snatch it from me. So I held on tighter and she tried to pull it from my hands. That went on for about 4 tugs before I shouted, "LADY! (I really wanted to say BITCH! but I said LADY! instead.... Remember, I was in my happy place. This next line was through my teeth...) "Let- go- of- my- receipt." She saw the intensity in my eyes and let go with both hands talking loudly saying over and over again, "I didn't check it, she wouldn't let me check it." I pushed past her rants and said, "And you ain't checking it either, bitch." (awww, I tried, I really tried.) I'd lost my temper for a moment, but by the time I got to my car I was laughing. I attempted to call the manager later to suggest some re-training on their receipt checking policy, but another ignorant lady answered informing me that he couldn't come to the phone because he was unloading a truck. "Just call back," she said. Whatever, I know my rights and my right is to decline a receipt check and to keep it moving.

My only concern right now is that I don't want to lose my temper like this in Kuwait and cuss some rude clerk out. I'm moving there in a couple of months and I've been reading that sales staff are not nice. I'm going to put some positive vibes out there right now and expect nice encounters. Happy place... happy place... happy place.

With the Best Intentions

2010-01-25T23:17:00.017-05:00

I'm new to this blogging experience, but I'm definitely not new to chatting and sharing so I should be okay. I intend to share my thoughts, ideas and ramblings to satisfy my need to write and vent my frustrations. Through my laughable encounters and cooky adventures, I hope the message is clear... My ultimate desire is to inspire.

I've been working as a hair and makeup artist for over ten years at a major television network in the U.S. (Can't reveal that of course... especially since I may feel need to bitch about work. hee hee hee) Yes, I have worked with and know celebrities, but please don't ask because I will NEVER mention the names of people I work with. This is not that type of blog. I may however, mention that yesterday I worked on a film or shot a commercial in California, but I will not give any pertinent details. So again, please don't expect an answer if you ask for any. Although I'm great at what I do and love my job with a passion, I am not just my work. I am also an avid gardener, am crafty with my hands, love to paint canvases and am finding a new found interest in photography.

I must say though, that people watching has been a strong influence throughout my days lately, ergo my blog name. Oh, will I have much to say in the days to come! I hope to make friends of like minds and cross paths with creative and interesting people. I'm embarking on a new adventure. I just got my new and improved passport in the mail today. First stop, Kuwait!