I haven't felt like I had the time or patience to do this until now...as I sit here in the computer lab of the Ford Forestry Center in Alberta, MI. Everything is green outside, the air smells wonderful again, and Lake Superior is just 10 minutes away. I'm very glad to be home, finally.
My last two weeks in Jordan were actually rather uneventful, unless you count final exams. Alhamdulillah, I aced everything. :) On the last day of classes, my friends Sam, Monica and Jafar gave a really funny skit where they made fun of everybody - students AND teachers. I laughed really hard after getting crap about a.my cat, b.my tattoo, and c.my love of minesweeper. Monica wore a blonde wig to better step into her role as Kaye. It was hilarious.
Everybody keeps asking me how it was, and I keep saying "amazing". It wasn't necessarily wonderful all of the time, but I was constantly amazed. I really feel as though I got my money's worth. It was a study abroad trip, and I learned SO MUCH - not just about the Arabic language and culture, but also about being a better, more tolerant and patient person, about life, and about ancient Roman history =).
I decided to make a list of the top 10 things I'll miss about Jordan:
1. Bread and hommos (it's just not the same here)
2. Arabic writing
3. The call to prayer
4. Hospitable people
5. Dawali/manakeesh/mansaf/everything else delicious
6. Monica/Shereen/Trent/Subhi/Hala/Lana/Sahar/Hiba
7. Arabic music and dancing
8. Mount Nebo Wine (the wine of the holy land...=P)
9. Gloria Jean's coffee shop
10. Keefic? Kwayyeza! Wa inti? Hamdulillah! Kwayyeza!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Quick Update
So, I went to the desert for the weekend and notable events included a bedouin dance party and sleeping under the stars.
I had an exam this week and I did fabulously.
I only have 8 more days of class.
I'll write a long, heart-felt, wrap-up blog before I leave.
I had an exam this week and I did fabulously.
I only have 8 more days of class.
I'll write a long, heart-felt, wrap-up blog before I leave.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
It doesn't matter whether or not you're studying. You're always learning about life.
At the time, it feels like WAY more than you EVER wanted to know. The lesson is why people do the things they do - it's not hard to understand, but sometimes it's hard to accept - so, some people choose not to understand. As for me, I'm working on accepting, since acceptance is the first step to recovery. =P
Okay, enough of the heavy. Update: I am very happy in my new home. I looooove my new zamila amreekeeya Monica; I really enjoy spending my entire life with her, from dawn to dusk.
My new host mother Lana is the WOMAN....she's so strong. Her husband lives and works in America, and she's been raising the kids on her own for the past few years. She resists every attempt by her family to get her to move in with them. They don't understand how she can manage a house on her own. They obviously don't understand much. She encourages her daughter Zaina to continue to be BA at soccer, even though, once again, she gets a lot of people asking her how she can support her female child playing sports....the same people who just don't understand. She's good for a quality discussion.
I'm halfway through my second session of classes. The days seem to alternate - one day I'll feel like the all-knowing Queen of Arabic, and the next it seems like I know absolutely nothing at all. And vice versa. That's the mark of learning, right? Learning. Learning, learning, learning. I can't even begin to tell you. L. E. A. R. N. I. N. G. If you ever want your head to feel similar to a stuffed animal that somebody left on the stuffing machine for too long, enroll in an AMIDEAST summer intensive Arabic program. I MEAN THIS IN A GOOD, AMAZING, WONDERFUL WAY.
I miss my cat soooooo much. Roommates: if you read this, please please please give her a hug for me.
I have $100 left in my bank account for the next 2.5 weeks, which translates to about 70 JDs - let's just say it's one of the many reasons I am relieved to be coming home soon.
I <3 Jordan at night.
Ma-Salaama, Shukran for reading my stream-of-consciousness blog entries.
Okay, enough of the heavy. Update: I am very happy in my new home. I looooove my new zamila amreekeeya Monica; I really enjoy spending my entire life with her, from dawn to dusk.
My new host mother Lana is the WOMAN....she's so strong. Her husband lives and works in America, and she's been raising the kids on her own for the past few years. She resists every attempt by her family to get her to move in with them. They don't understand how she can manage a house on her own. They obviously don't understand much. She encourages her daughter Zaina to continue to be BA at soccer, even though, once again, she gets a lot of people asking her how she can support her female child playing sports....the same people who just don't understand. She's good for a quality discussion.
I'm halfway through my second session of classes. The days seem to alternate - one day I'll feel like the all-knowing Queen of Arabic, and the next it seems like I know absolutely nothing at all. And vice versa. That's the mark of learning, right? Learning. Learning, learning, learning. I can't even begin to tell you. L. E. A. R. N. I. N. G. If you ever want your head to feel similar to a stuffed animal that somebody left on the stuffing machine for too long, enroll in an AMIDEAST summer intensive Arabic program. I MEAN THIS IN A GOOD, AMAZING, WONDERFUL WAY.
I miss my cat soooooo much. Roommates: if you read this, please please please give her a hug for me.
I have $100 left in my bank account for the next 2.5 weeks, which translates to about 70 JDs - let's just say it's one of the many reasons I am relieved to be coming home soon.
I <3 Jordan at night.
Ma-Salaama, Shukran for reading my stream-of-consciousness blog entries.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
People aren't always what they seem...but I still have faith in them.
Wellll....I had a slight problem with my current host family, involving...I won't go into details. I've been moved to a new place. I feel awful about my old host mother and the kids...I know they must be really upset. But, there's nothing I can do about it. I couldn't stay there. I didn't feel comfortable. I hate when things like this happen...but they happen. Also, I left most of my clothes there and I have to wait for an Amideast representative to go and pick them up. I should get them sometime later today, but seriously. I just want clean underwear NOW.
I'm now at a new place. It's just a mother, Lana, and her two children. The father lives in America. I really like it a lot. Lana is wonderful, and so are her children. I have my own room, AND there is another American student living here. Her name is Monica. She's awesome. I hate to say it, but I can already tell that I'll be much more comfortable here. Things are more low-key. It's only women and babies. I have much more privacy. Inshallah, pictures of my new family will be up soon. I'm not going to the wedding I was going to go to with my other family, but I'm going to a DIFFERENT wedding today with my new family. Go figure. Lol. Monica is loaning me a dress.
Tomorrow I'm going on a second trip to the Dead Sea with Amideast...very excited about swimming. I'm swimming so much this summer - I didn't think I would be at all. I love swimming. Actually, I've realized, I need swimming. I've totally lucked out.
It's really hard for me to express myself in this blog without being too explicit about current events in my life. All I can say is that I try not to hate people for their actions - I try to feel sorry for them. It's hard.
I guess it would seem to an outsider like this has been a super traumatic transition for me, but it really hasn't, for some reason. I'm just glad I'm where I am.
I'm now at a new place. It's just a mother, Lana, and her two children. The father lives in America. I really like it a lot. Lana is wonderful, and so are her children. I have my own room, AND there is another American student living here. Her name is Monica. She's awesome. I hate to say it, but I can already tell that I'll be much more comfortable here. Things are more low-key. It's only women and babies. I have much more privacy. Inshallah, pictures of my new family will be up soon. I'm not going to the wedding I was going to go to with my other family, but I'm going to a DIFFERENT wedding today with my new family. Go figure. Lol. Monica is loaning me a dress.
Tomorrow I'm going on a second trip to the Dead Sea with Amideast...very excited about swimming. I'm swimming so much this summer - I didn't think I would be at all. I love swimming. Actually, I've realized, I need swimming. I've totally lucked out.
It's really hard for me to express myself in this blog without being too explicit about current events in my life. All I can say is that I try not to hate people for their actions - I try to feel sorry for them. It's hard.
I guess it would seem to an outsider like this has been a super traumatic transition for me, but it really hasn't, for some reason. I'm just glad I'm where I am.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
I am currently eating a cucumber whole.
This is because I'm trying to diet. Because for the past two mornings I had free breakfast at a hotel in Aqaba and I am ashamed of the number of pastries I ate.
The Red Sea is beautiful. The water on the beach is very clean and the resort I stayed at with Trent, Shereen and Emily was fabulous. We could only afford it because one of our study abroad program helpers got us a deal. I spent the entire time just swimming and laying in the sun. It was great.
My trip is more than halfway completed now. My first round of classes is over, and my week-long break is nearly over. I start up again on Monday. I'm glad because, frankly, I am slightly bored just sitting in my bedroom in Amman. It doesn't take much, hey?
I'm not going to lie, I really miss home. I miss Michigan, and the Great Lakes, and trees, and my cat, and my family, and my friends, and MTU, and Houghton, and Suomi, and the Portage, and McLain State Park, and the farm, and Pelkie, and the Sturgeon River, and Taco Bell, and people turning off the TV and the lights when they leave the room.
That said, I'm still going to enjoy my time here as much as I can because I only have five more weeks. Tomorrow I get to go to a wedding party (yay!), and soon the World Cup will be over and I'll be able to get into restaurants without a minimum charge again (double yay).
The Red Sea is beautiful. The water on the beach is very clean and the resort I stayed at with Trent, Shereen and Emily was fabulous. We could only afford it because one of our study abroad program helpers got us a deal. I spent the entire time just swimming and laying in the sun. It was great.
My trip is more than halfway completed now. My first round of classes is over, and my week-long break is nearly over. I start up again on Monday. I'm glad because, frankly, I am slightly bored just sitting in my bedroom in Amman. It doesn't take much, hey?
I'm not going to lie, I really miss home. I miss Michigan, and the Great Lakes, and trees, and my cat, and my family, and my friends, and MTU, and Houghton, and Suomi, and the Portage, and McLain State Park, and the farm, and Pelkie, and the Sturgeon River, and Taco Bell, and people turning off the TV and the lights when they leave the room.
That said, I'm still going to enjoy my time here as much as I can because I only have five more weeks. Tomorrow I get to go to a wedding party (yay!), and soon the World Cup will be over and I'll be able to get into restaurants without a minimum charge again (double yay).
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Tolerating Intolerance
I am straight. I am Buddhist. However, recently, I got involved in a conflict between homosexuality and Christianity. How did it end? I cried because people are intolerant, and I cried because I lost my temper and became intolerant myself.
How do you find the balance between respecting the beliefs of others and standing up against something you know is wrong? Where is the line between a peaceful person and somebody who fights for peace?
"An engineering professor is treating her husband, a loan officer, to dinner for finally giving in to her pleas to shave off the scraggly beard he grew on vacation. His favorite restaurant is a casual place where they both feel comfortable in slacks and cotton/polyester-blend golf shirts. But, as always, she wears the gold and pearl pendant he gave her the day her divorce decree was final. They're laughing over their menus because they know he always ends up diving into a giant plate of ribs but she won't be talked into anything more fattening than shrimp.
Quiz: How many biblical prohibitions are they violating? Well, wives are supposed to be 'submissive' to their husbands (I Peter 3:1). And all women are forbidden to teach men (I Timothy 2:12), wear gold or pearls (I Timothy 2:9) or dress in clothing that 'pertains to a man' (Deuteronomy 22:5). Shellfish and pork are definitely out (Leviticus 11:7, 10) as are usury (Deuteronomy 23:19), shaving (Leviticus 19:27) and clothes of more than one fabric (Leviticus 19:19). And since the Bible rarely recognizes divorce, they're committing adultery, which carries the rather harsh penalty of death by stoning (Deuteronomy 22:22).
So why are they having such a good time? Probably because they wouldn't think of worrying about rules that seem absurd, anachronistic or - at best - unrealistic."
Good story, right? So, why can't the same thinking be applied to biblical prohibitions of homosexuality? Why do we find it so easy to wear gold and pearls but so difficult to accept people who love differently? To me, it seems there are two answers. One must be fear. People fear differences, so their natural response is hate. The second is a lack of free thought. Why haven't Christians taken the time to examine the "rules" put down in the Bible, and see if they match up with Jesus' philosophy? It's not even a difficult chain of logic. What was Jesus for? Loving everybody. What was he against? Hurting people. Do gays love each other? Yes. Do they hurt anybody? No. I cannot believe that this extremely simple piece of critical thinking is so beyond the reach of much of humanity.
I cannot remember Jesus saying a single sentence about "unnatural sexual practices" or anything like that. Why? Because sexual orientation is a minor detail compared to all of the other threads that make up the fabric of a human being! What about if they are loyal, honest, and compassionate? Does it really matter what they do in the privacy of their bedroom?
I hate myself when I lose control. I hate myself when I lose my temper. But I also cannot imagine a world in which I don't try to open people's minds, no matter how futile the task is.
How do you find the balance between respecting the beliefs of others and standing up against something you know is wrong? Where is the line between a peaceful person and somebody who fights for peace?
"An engineering professor is treating her husband, a loan officer, to dinner for finally giving in to her pleas to shave off the scraggly beard he grew on vacation. His favorite restaurant is a casual place where they both feel comfortable in slacks and cotton/polyester-blend golf shirts. But, as always, she wears the gold and pearl pendant he gave her the day her divorce decree was final. They're laughing over their menus because they know he always ends up diving into a giant plate of ribs but she won't be talked into anything more fattening than shrimp.
Quiz: How many biblical prohibitions are they violating? Well, wives are supposed to be 'submissive' to their husbands (I Peter 3:1). And all women are forbidden to teach men (I Timothy 2:12), wear gold or pearls (I Timothy 2:9) or dress in clothing that 'pertains to a man' (Deuteronomy 22:5). Shellfish and pork are definitely out (Leviticus 11:7, 10) as are usury (Deuteronomy 23:19), shaving (Leviticus 19:27) and clothes of more than one fabric (Leviticus 19:19). And since the Bible rarely recognizes divorce, they're committing adultery, which carries the rather harsh penalty of death by stoning (Deuteronomy 22:22).
So why are they having such a good time? Probably because they wouldn't think of worrying about rules that seem absurd, anachronistic or - at best - unrealistic."
Good story, right? So, why can't the same thinking be applied to biblical prohibitions of homosexuality? Why do we find it so easy to wear gold and pearls but so difficult to accept people who love differently? To me, it seems there are two answers. One must be fear. People fear differences, so their natural response is hate. The second is a lack of free thought. Why haven't Christians taken the time to examine the "rules" put down in the Bible, and see if they match up with Jesus' philosophy? It's not even a difficult chain of logic. What was Jesus for? Loving everybody. What was he against? Hurting people. Do gays love each other? Yes. Do they hurt anybody? No. I cannot believe that this extremely simple piece of critical thinking is so beyond the reach of much of humanity.
I cannot remember Jesus saying a single sentence about "unnatural sexual practices" or anything like that. Why? Because sexual orientation is a minor detail compared to all of the other threads that make up the fabric of a human being! What about if they are loyal, honest, and compassionate? Does it really matter what they do in the privacy of their bedroom?
I hate myself when I lose control. I hate myself when I lose my temper. But I also cannot imagine a world in which I don't try to open people's minds, no matter how futile the task is.
Friday, June 18, 2010
An Arab Wedding and Petra
I sincerely hope my English doesn't get sketchy from lack of use. What in the world would I do without writing skills.........*shudder*.
So, I'm almost done with my first session of Arabic classes. I can hardly believe how much I've learned! Apart from reading and writing relatively well, I can understand about 50% of what is said to me (if spoken slowly)! I can also get across my point in most situations, albeit by using rather roundabout words. I've done very well and aced my exams/quizzes, although it doesn't matter because it's just going to show up as 5 transfer credits on my transcript. Ah well.
I had all kinds of plans of perhaps going to Turkey or Lebanon or Egypt over my week-long break, but honestly, I'm running out of money. On that note, it costs 60 JDS to get into Petra - that's almost 90 US Dollars! Even though I was annoyed at the price, it was definitely worth it. I'm not sure how I can describe it....let's just say that it's a fabulous, massive, ancient city carved into the walls of a large canyon. I think that pretty much sums it up. Honestly, I was just as appreciative of the natural desert rock formations as I was of the ancient architecture. See Facebook/Flickr for pictures. I'm very sunburned and I saw real Bedouins! How cool.
Last night, I attended my first Arabic wedding. Before you ask me - the bride wore a white gown shipped in from the United States. Jordanians LOVE American wedding dresses. There was no church, the thing was held mostly in a hotel ballroom. We actually ate and danced BEFORE the ceremony. Oh, dancing....the party actually started at the bride's home, and I kid you not, a posse of dancing and singing Jordanians followed her out the door, into the limo, and all the way to the hotel to welcome her. Apparently I picked up Arabic dancing quite well. Whatev - it doesn't matter where you are; if you can move your hips, you can move your hips.
Sorry this blog isn't super deep, but I'm too tired to relay how surreal it was to be standing in a city that was once bustling with pre-Jesus citizens, or how much I love how full of life Arabs are. Oh wait, I just did.
Ana tabbanih kteer wa anna biddi douche wa takhti.
Ma-Salaama.
Kaye
So, I'm almost done with my first session of Arabic classes. I can hardly believe how much I've learned! Apart from reading and writing relatively well, I can understand about 50% of what is said to me (if spoken slowly)! I can also get across my point in most situations, albeit by using rather roundabout words. I've done very well and aced my exams/quizzes, although it doesn't matter because it's just going to show up as 5 transfer credits on my transcript. Ah well.
I had all kinds of plans of perhaps going to Turkey or Lebanon or Egypt over my week-long break, but honestly, I'm running out of money. On that note, it costs 60 JDS to get into Petra - that's almost 90 US Dollars! Even though I was annoyed at the price, it was definitely worth it. I'm not sure how I can describe it....let's just say that it's a fabulous, massive, ancient city carved into the walls of a large canyon. I think that pretty much sums it up. Honestly, I was just as appreciative of the natural desert rock formations as I was of the ancient architecture. See Facebook/Flickr for pictures. I'm very sunburned and I saw real Bedouins! How cool.
Last night, I attended my first Arabic wedding. Before you ask me - the bride wore a white gown shipped in from the United States. Jordanians LOVE American wedding dresses. There was no church, the thing was held mostly in a hotel ballroom. We actually ate and danced BEFORE the ceremony. Oh, dancing....the party actually started at the bride's home, and I kid you not, a posse of dancing and singing Jordanians followed her out the door, into the limo, and all the way to the hotel to welcome her. Apparently I picked up Arabic dancing quite well. Whatev - it doesn't matter where you are; if you can move your hips, you can move your hips.
Sorry this blog isn't super deep, but I'm too tired to relay how surreal it was to be standing in a city that was once bustling with pre-Jesus citizens, or how much I love how full of life Arabs are. Oh wait, I just did.
Ana tabbanih kteer wa anna biddi douche wa takhti.
Ma-Salaama.
Kaye
Sunday, June 13, 2010
What I've Learned So Far About Jordan
I thought it might be a good idea to sum some of this up so I can keep track. After all, one of the best things I can do with my experience is to teach everyone what I know when I get back home.
1. Most people do NOT hate Americans and are NOT terrorists. They get excited when you try to speak Arabic and they LOVE Obama.
2. Arabs are extremely hospitable, and will offer you food and drink until you burst.
3. It's considered rude to point the bottom of your foot towards someone.
4. Lots of everyday phrases like "alhamdillallah" and "insha'allah" have religious roots. You use them even if you're not religious.
5. There are radio stations that play Britney Spears and Ke$ha, and there are also radio stations that exclusively feature the Q'uran being read aloud.
6. Family is EXTREMELY important. I cannot stress how much of a role family plays in Arab society.
7. Personal space does not exist.
8. A Jordanian woman can wear whatever she wants. Your dress code is influenced mostly by your family and personal beliefs. Most women who wear hijab really believe in what they are doing.
9. The call to prayer really does go off 5 times a day, and It's beautiful.
10. Jordan needs more animal shelters =(.
1. Most people do NOT hate Americans and are NOT terrorists. They get excited when you try to speak Arabic and they LOVE Obama.
2. Arabs are extremely hospitable, and will offer you food and drink until you burst.
3. It's considered rude to point the bottom of your foot towards someone.
4. Lots of everyday phrases like "alhamdillallah" and "insha'allah" have religious roots. You use them even if you're not religious.
5. There are radio stations that play Britney Spears and Ke$ha, and there are also radio stations that exclusively feature the Q'uran being read aloud.
6. Family is EXTREMELY important. I cannot stress how much of a role family plays in Arab society.
7. Personal space does not exist.
8. A Jordanian woman can wear whatever she wants. Your dress code is influenced mostly by your family and personal beliefs. Most women who wear hijab really believe in what they are doing.
9. The call to prayer really does go off 5 times a day, and It's beautiful.
10. Jordan needs more animal shelters =(.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Friday, June 4, 2010
As Umeee makes an omelette...
I just saw my little host brother and sister fight in front of me for the first time....I can't help but find it REALLY funny. A lot of things about people and families are truly universal.
It is so hot here. I take a shower and I'm not even finished getting dressed again before I already feel gross. I think I'm getting used to it, though. Mind over matter....I have just accepted the fact that I am going to be hot for the next two months.
I had two more quizzes yesterday and I aced them both!!!
It's the weekend.....yay....I'm learning SO MUCH Arabic but my brain needs a break. I just had a big breakfast and now I'm going to sleep for a bit because it's the weekend, dangit. Tonight the gang and I are going to Souk Jara, an open-air market on Rainbow street with hand-made crafts, organic food, and other hipster-like things....=) After, we're going to another Friday-night concert nearby. They have a local artist play at Souk Jara every week!
Anyways....things are pretty quiet in Amman. Idk if you've heard about what Israel did (attacked a flotilla of humanitarian aid ships to Gaza OUTSIDE of their boundaries, those a-holes)...but don't worry, there's really nothing going on here, beyond some peaceful and security-regulated demonstrations. All demonstrations here must have govt. clearance, so that the police can ensure things stay safe.
I'm very excited because I'm going to have the chance to attend an Arabic wedding while I'm here in July!!! Joud and my aunt are already teaching me Arabic dancing...it's a good time. =)
Anyways, not much more to report.
Ma-Salaama!
It is so hot here. I take a shower and I'm not even finished getting dressed again before I already feel gross. I think I'm getting used to it, though. Mind over matter....I have just accepted the fact that I am going to be hot for the next two months.
I had two more quizzes yesterday and I aced them both!!!
It's the weekend.....yay....I'm learning SO MUCH Arabic but my brain needs a break. I just had a big breakfast and now I'm going to sleep for a bit because it's the weekend, dangit. Tonight the gang and I are going to Souk Jara, an open-air market on Rainbow street with hand-made crafts, organic food, and other hipster-like things....=) After, we're going to another Friday-night concert nearby. They have a local artist play at Souk Jara every week!
Anyways....things are pretty quiet in Amman. Idk if you've heard about what Israel did (attacked a flotilla of humanitarian aid ships to Gaza OUTSIDE of their boundaries, those a-holes)...but don't worry, there's really nothing going on here, beyond some peaceful and security-regulated demonstrations. All demonstrations here must have govt. clearance, so that the police can ensure things stay safe.
I'm very excited because I'm going to have the chance to attend an Arabic wedding while I'm here in July!!! Joud and my aunt are already teaching me Arabic dancing...it's a good time. =)
Anyways, not much more to report.
Ma-Salaama!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
LOL Already sick of blogging.
Well, today is a milestone. After school, I was able to fit in a nap, dinner/family time, ALL of my homework, and a trip out with Jumana, Shereen and Emily. Ilhamdilallah!
Assef - I am sorry. I haven't been very diligent with this blog. Here's a brief summary of the last few days:
1.) I saw a bunch of old Greek Orthodox churches and ancient ruins in Madaba, took a trip up Mount Nebo where Moses supposedly hung around, stepped into the Jordan River where Jesus was supposedly baptized (although for me, far more significant is the fact that Israel diverts most of the water, so this ancient river is down to little more than a trickle), and floated in the dead sea.
2.) The dead sea was very fun, it felt like I was in space, but the saltiness burned every little cut on my body and I could only stand it for 15 minutes.
3.) Happily for me, there was a nice, cold, non-salty swimming pool at the resort we visited. Shereen and I spent a few joyous hours swimming and sunbathing. My new bathing suit is jamila kteer!
4.) I ACED my first Arabic test!! 9.5/10. Go me! Imtihani Arabeeya jayeeda!
5.) Ma-salaama.
Assef - I am sorry. I haven't been very diligent with this blog. Here's a brief summary of the last few days:
1.) I saw a bunch of old Greek Orthodox churches and ancient ruins in Madaba, took a trip up Mount Nebo where Moses supposedly hung around, stepped into the Jordan River where Jesus was supposedly baptized (although for me, far more significant is the fact that Israel diverts most of the water, so this ancient river is down to little more than a trickle), and floated in the dead sea.
2.) The dead sea was very fun, it felt like I was in space, but the saltiness burned every little cut on my body and I could only stand it for 15 minutes.
3.) Happily for me, there was a nice, cold, non-salty swimming pool at the resort we visited. Shereen and I spent a few joyous hours swimming and sunbathing. My new bathing suit is jamila kteer!
4.) I ACED my first Arabic test!! 9.5/10. Go me! Imtihani Arabeeya jayeeda!
5.) Ma-salaama.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
1 AM Again
Tuesday was my day off, and it was fabulous. Shereen, Emily, everyone else and I walked from coffee shop to hookah bar to restaurant, sipping coffee, smoking shishah, and eating falafel/mango puree/baba ganouj. Also, I got my scholarship check deposited in my account! I was able to pay off my Dad for my taxes + plane ticket loan, pay my Houghton rent in advance for the entire summer, pay off my credit card, and still have a SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT left over. Like, I'm thinking enough for a trip to Egypt, maybe. Also, I went for a mini-shopping spree at ZARA. Best. Store. Ever. I got two shirts and a gorgeous pair of shoes.
Since it was Jordanian independence day, we went to King Hussein Gardens for an Independence Day Celebration. It was a riot! I have never seen so many excited Jordanians in my entire life. They were dancing and clapping and waving flags, and they were ALL decked out in their red-and-white-checked scarves (kind of like the one you see Yasser Arafat wearing, except it actually symbolizes Jordanians). I love traditional Jordanian music. The only unfortunate part is that the exuberant dancing is left to the men - the women just watch and clap. Kind of lame. Funny story - I walked up to a group of dancing guys to get a few pictures, and my friend's host mom actually walked up and pulled me away! I guess it's considered dangerous to get close to dancing men, but they didn't seem scary to me. They were all smiles and were pretty much fighting to get in front of the camera. I guess that was my "crazy American" moment of the day. For pictures, see my Flickr.
Today it was back to the grind, and boy, is it a grind. I officially know the entire Arabic alphabet, which means that I can read aloud any Arabic script I see and write down any word I hear(in theory). But let's not forget...Arabic is HARD. Imagine a language with two different kinds of D's, T's, K's, S's, H's, and TH's...spelling is so difficult, because I'm not good at telling the difference between the "soft" and "hard" consonants yet. That being said, Shereen, my Arabic-extraordinaire classmate (It's her parents' native language, she has an advantage) says that she is impressed and so are the teachers, and that I'm progressing quickly. I hope so. My brain feels jam-packed. I guess that's how it's supposed to feel. I feel lost sometimes, but I'm working my butt off and getting into it.
*Cough, cough*. I'm not sure if I've contracted a virus or if it's all of the smoking in the house, but I'm hacking up a storm. I spoke to my host mother about it, and she said she was so sorry and that they would start smoking outside on the balcony only. Still feels a bit like a cold, however. We shall see.
Since I'm feeling sickly and I had a METRIC TON of homework tonight, I was looking forward to just going home, doing my homework, and crashing early/having some free time. Madam Al'Araj picked me up from class at 3, and no joke, we were not home until 6:15. There was quite a long list of stops...I never want to hear the phrase "just ten minutes!!!" ever again.
That being said, the Al'Araj family are some darn good people. They seem to have been inspired by my pinings for Rosalie. We're getting a cat!! After about an hour of expressing my concern that they're only getting it for me, that it's a big responsibility, that they can't just neglect it once I leave, etc. etc., I was reassured that the whole family really does want a cat and that once she is trained up, Joud will make a very good pet owner. =)
Well, I have to get up in 5.5 hours (FML), but I cleaned my room, showered, and did every homework assignment to my best ability. I hope I'm not still all scratchy-throated tomorrow.
Ma-Salaama,
Kaye
Since it was Jordanian independence day, we went to King Hussein Gardens for an Independence Day Celebration. It was a riot! I have never seen so many excited Jordanians in my entire life. They were dancing and clapping and waving flags, and they were ALL decked out in their red-and-white-checked scarves (kind of like the one you see Yasser Arafat wearing, except it actually symbolizes Jordanians). I love traditional Jordanian music. The only unfortunate part is that the exuberant dancing is left to the men - the women just watch and clap. Kind of lame. Funny story - I walked up to a group of dancing guys to get a few pictures, and my friend's host mom actually walked up and pulled me away! I guess it's considered dangerous to get close to dancing men, but they didn't seem scary to me. They were all smiles and were pretty much fighting to get in front of the camera. I guess that was my "crazy American" moment of the day. For pictures, see my Flickr.
Today it was back to the grind, and boy, is it a grind. I officially know the entire Arabic alphabet, which means that I can read aloud any Arabic script I see and write down any word I hear(in theory). But let's not forget...Arabic is HARD. Imagine a language with two different kinds of D's, T's, K's, S's, H's, and TH's...spelling is so difficult, because I'm not good at telling the difference between the "soft" and "hard" consonants yet. That being said, Shereen, my Arabic-extraordinaire classmate (It's her parents' native language, she has an advantage) says that she is impressed and so are the teachers, and that I'm progressing quickly. I hope so. My brain feels jam-packed. I guess that's how it's supposed to feel. I feel lost sometimes, but I'm working my butt off and getting into it.
*Cough, cough*. I'm not sure if I've contracted a virus or if it's all of the smoking in the house, but I'm hacking up a storm. I spoke to my host mother about it, and she said she was so sorry and that they would start smoking outside on the balcony only. Still feels a bit like a cold, however. We shall see.
Since I'm feeling sickly and I had a METRIC TON of homework tonight, I was looking forward to just going home, doing my homework, and crashing early/having some free time. Madam Al'Araj picked me up from class at 3, and no joke, we were not home until 6:15. There was quite a long list of stops...I never want to hear the phrase "just ten minutes!!!" ever again.
That being said, the Al'Araj family are some darn good people. They seem to have been inspired by my pinings for Rosalie. We're getting a cat!! After about an hour of expressing my concern that they're only getting it for me, that it's a big responsibility, that they can't just neglect it once I leave, etc. etc., I was reassured that the whole family really does want a cat and that once she is trained up, Joud will make a very good pet owner. =)
Well, I have to get up in 5.5 hours (FML), but I cleaned my room, showered, and did every homework assignment to my best ability. I hope I'm not still all scratchy-throated tomorrow.
Ma-Salaama,
Kaye
Monday, May 24, 2010
jayeed
Al Salaam Alaykkum.
Today, I feel sooooo much better. A hot shower (albeit with extremely low water pressure) and a good night's sleep helped a lot. My in-country director, Hala, was also a large factor. She is so understanding, and I was able to tell her about everything that was going on with me. She is GREAT. She is one of the most eloquent, intelligent, interesting, cool and warm-hearted people I have ever met.
Julie and Mom: Today, I wore the sequin-pocket shirt, and it looked great.
I now officially know roughly half of the Arabic alphabet. It's so cool - I'm reading street signs! I'm usually not sure what the words mean, but I can translate that curly script into something spoken aloud! I'm also picking up quite a bit as far as actual communication goes. Between my family and my classes and my new friends, I learn new words all the time. I can't believe it's only the fourth day. I've learned so much already, and I can't wait to see where I'm at at the end of the summer.
I already feel at home in Amman. It is interesting, beautiful, and exciting, but most importantly, the people are extremely hospitable. If any of you readers have negative perceptions of the Arab world, I would think again. While some are conservative and all are different from Westerners, Arabs are warm, friendly, and always ready to help you out. They are also incredibly full of life. They laugh a lot, eat a lot, and hang out in groups a lot.
While a large portion of Jordanian women cover their hair with a scarf, it is CERTAINLY not a necessity. I can walk around in jeans and a t-shirt and look quite normal.
My host family could not be any more welcoming and accepting. While officially Muslim, they really seem to be more open to ideas than anything else. They all thought it was really cool that I'm a Buddhist. Joud loves to dance, and I kid you not, today, we were busting a move to Pitbull in the living room (with her mother looking on and encouraging it!). I showed them some videos of the dance team, and they were delighted. They are very excited because they just realized that I'll be staying for 11 weeks instead of 5. They want to take me to some weddings.
I'm so thrilled because I already have friends and a life. I met a girl named Shereen in my class, and we've quickly become friends. She is from Texas, but her parents are Palestinian and spent a large portion of their lives in Jordan. Consequently, she knows quite a bit of Jordanian Arabic, which comes in handy for me. Also, one of her college friends is actually a Jordanian native who is home for the summer. Shereen is living with this friend, and through them, I've been able to meet all kinds of Jordanians my age! We all hang out together and it's so much fun.
I feel sort of bad because I got home at 11:30 and I woke my family up because I got lost on the way home and had to call them, but I can't be that upset about it. I had a GREAT time tonight. We went to a shishah (hookah) bar, and just sat and smoked hookah and sipped coffee for hours. Then we got ice cream, and to end the night, we drove around listening to a mix of American pop/rap and Jordanian traditional music, singing and dancing and just being goofy.
My life is so perfect right now, and the little devil in my brain always has something to say when that happens..."you're going to mess it up, Kaye". I just tell him to shush.
This weekend, I'm going to see Biblical Jordan (Jerash, Madaba) and the Dead Sea! I can't wait to lay on a beach.
I miss my family and friends and cat back home. Love you all.
Ma-Salaama,
Kaye
Today, I feel sooooo much better. A hot shower (albeit with extremely low water pressure) and a good night's sleep helped a lot. My in-country director, Hala, was also a large factor. She is so understanding, and I was able to tell her about everything that was going on with me. She is GREAT. She is one of the most eloquent, intelligent, interesting, cool and warm-hearted people I have ever met.
Julie and Mom: Today, I wore the sequin-pocket shirt, and it looked great.
I now officially know roughly half of the Arabic alphabet. It's so cool - I'm reading street signs! I'm usually not sure what the words mean, but I can translate that curly script into something spoken aloud! I'm also picking up quite a bit as far as actual communication goes. Between my family and my classes and my new friends, I learn new words all the time. I can't believe it's only the fourth day. I've learned so much already, and I can't wait to see where I'm at at the end of the summer.
I already feel at home in Amman. It is interesting, beautiful, and exciting, but most importantly, the people are extremely hospitable. If any of you readers have negative perceptions of the Arab world, I would think again. While some are conservative and all are different from Westerners, Arabs are warm, friendly, and always ready to help you out. They are also incredibly full of life. They laugh a lot, eat a lot, and hang out in groups a lot.
While a large portion of Jordanian women cover their hair with a scarf, it is CERTAINLY not a necessity. I can walk around in jeans and a t-shirt and look quite normal.
My host family could not be any more welcoming and accepting. While officially Muslim, they really seem to be more open to ideas than anything else. They all thought it was really cool that I'm a Buddhist. Joud loves to dance, and I kid you not, today, we were busting a move to Pitbull in the living room (with her mother looking on and encouraging it!). I showed them some videos of the dance team, and they were delighted. They are very excited because they just realized that I'll be staying for 11 weeks instead of 5. They want to take me to some weddings.
I'm so thrilled because I already have friends and a life. I met a girl named Shereen in my class, and we've quickly become friends. She is from Texas, but her parents are Palestinian and spent a large portion of their lives in Jordan. Consequently, she knows quite a bit of Jordanian Arabic, which comes in handy for me. Also, one of her college friends is actually a Jordanian native who is home for the summer. Shereen is living with this friend, and through them, I've been able to meet all kinds of Jordanians my age! We all hang out together and it's so much fun.
I feel sort of bad because I got home at 11:30 and I woke my family up because I got lost on the way home and had to call them, but I can't be that upset about it. I had a GREAT time tonight. We went to a shishah (hookah) bar, and just sat and smoked hookah and sipped coffee for hours. Then we got ice cream, and to end the night, we drove around listening to a mix of American pop/rap and Jordanian traditional music, singing and dancing and just being goofy.
My life is so perfect right now, and the little devil in my brain always has something to say when that happens..."you're going to mess it up, Kaye". I just tell him to shush.
This weekend, I'm going to see Biblical Jordan (Jerash, Madaba) and the Dead Sea! I can't wait to lay on a beach.
I miss my family and friends and cat back home. Love you all.
Ma-Salaama,
Kaye
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Not. Feeling. Well.
First of all, let me say that this is already a fabulous experience in so many ways. Wonderful host family, awesome city, ancient Roman architecture, interesting and challenging language lessons...the problem, however, is that my stupid body is not allowing me to enjoy any of this.
I'm still suffering from severe jet lag. I couldn't fall asleep last night until 2 in the morning and had to wake up at 7. I woke up feeling like death. This lack of sleep is causing my ever-present anxiety issues to go FULL STEAM AHEAD. I am so so so anxious, for no reason (so my brain creates reasons). It's the worst feeling ever. In turn, the anxiety is exacerbating the issues that my digestive system is having with different food. Don't get me wrong, it's all delicious, but I'm just not used to it.
This is the most steam I can muster to write a blog today. I love Arabic but it took every ounce of energy I had today to stay awake and make my brain work, and I still have lots of homework. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be feeling more myself and will be able to give more details. For now, let me just say..."ana tabbanih". (I am tired).
Ma-Salaama,
Kaye
I'm still suffering from severe jet lag. I couldn't fall asleep last night until 2 in the morning and had to wake up at 7. I woke up feeling like death. This lack of sleep is causing my ever-present anxiety issues to go FULL STEAM AHEAD. I am so so so anxious, for no reason (so my brain creates reasons). It's the worst feeling ever. In turn, the anxiety is exacerbating the issues that my digestive system is having with different food. Don't get me wrong, it's all delicious, but I'm just not used to it.
This is the most steam I can muster to write a blog today. I love Arabic but it took every ounce of energy I had today to stay awake and make my brain work, and I still have lots of homework. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be feeling more myself and will be able to give more details. For now, let me just say..."ana tabbanih". (I am tired).
Ma-Salaama,
Kaye
Friday, May 21, 2010
I made it!
Salaam allahykum.
Well, here I am, typing away under the covers of my new bed so I don't disturb my adorable new little sister, Joud Al'araj.
After an uneventful morning of watching 'The Godfather' and eating waffles, I headed to the airport with my entourage. I miss my family already, but I did my best to keep the good-byes short and sweet. No use dragging that stuff out. Upon entering the airport I immediately binged myself on some fast food and then set about mentally preparing for 16 hours (total) in an airplane. The trans-atlantic flight was actually pretty swell. I watched Juno for the 2894492837th time, listened to my i-pod, and enjoyed my new age (21) by ordering a big old glass of wine and then conking out for the rest of the flight. Also, they served me paneer with chicken curry for dinner! It was FABULOUS.
Once I landed in Kuwait, things got hairy. People kept telling me that my "booking had been cancelled", and sending me to various help counters (I must have walked that entire airport at least five times). Finally, I ended up begging the man at the gate. I showed him my passport, my itinerary WITH the KWI-AMM flight on it, and my baggage tag which showed that even though I wasn't in Amman yet, my luggage was. He was an absolute angel about it and was able to just give me a handwritten boarding pass on the spot. It all turned out okay, but....F*** YOU, TRAVELOCITY.COM.
My host mother is wonderful. Manal (sp?) Al'araj is the most hospitable woman I have ever met. She has pretty much devoted every second of her time since I got here to meeting my every need/want. It's gotten to the point where I'm starting to feel slightly guilty, almost. My new home is in a VERY nice apartment complex just a couple blocks from a shopping mall. It's beautiful inside - and the best part - wireless internet!! My new little brother and sister are ADORABLE. Mahmoud, the oldest, promptly presented me with a baby chick upon my arrival (how long his mother is going to let him keep it running around her upscale apartment is beyond me). Joud has so many questions for me about my life in America that I can hardly keep up. She already wants me to take her shopping tomorrow.
I am ALREADY learning some Arabic just by being around my family. New words under my belt include: please, thank-you, no problem, bathroom, and beautiful. P.S. - one of the first things my new mom told me was that I was very beautiful. It was a nice way to be welcomed.
Tomorrow, I have orientation at 9 AM, so I should wrap this post up. I love and miss whoever is reading this and I cannot WAIT to start some photography.
ma-salaama,
Kaye.
Well, here I am, typing away under the covers of my new bed so I don't disturb my adorable new little sister, Joud Al'araj.
After an uneventful morning of watching 'The Godfather' and eating waffles, I headed to the airport with my entourage. I miss my family already, but I did my best to keep the good-byes short and sweet. No use dragging that stuff out. Upon entering the airport I immediately binged myself on some fast food and then set about mentally preparing for 16 hours (total) in an airplane. The trans-atlantic flight was actually pretty swell. I watched Juno for the 2894492837th time, listened to my i-pod, and enjoyed my new age (21) by ordering a big old glass of wine and then conking out for the rest of the flight. Also, they served me paneer with chicken curry for dinner! It was FABULOUS.
Once I landed in Kuwait, things got hairy. People kept telling me that my "booking had been cancelled", and sending me to various help counters (I must have walked that entire airport at least five times). Finally, I ended up begging the man at the gate. I showed him my passport, my itinerary WITH the KWI-AMM flight on it, and my baggage tag which showed that even though I wasn't in Amman yet, my luggage was. He was an absolute angel about it and was able to just give me a handwritten boarding pass on the spot. It all turned out okay, but....F*** YOU, TRAVELOCITY.COM.
My host mother is wonderful. Manal (sp?) Al'araj is the most hospitable woman I have ever met. She has pretty much devoted every second of her time since I got here to meeting my every need/want. It's gotten to the point where I'm starting to feel slightly guilty, almost. My new home is in a VERY nice apartment complex just a couple blocks from a shopping mall. It's beautiful inside - and the best part - wireless internet!! My new little brother and sister are ADORABLE. Mahmoud, the oldest, promptly presented me with a baby chick upon my arrival (how long his mother is going to let him keep it running around her upscale apartment is beyond me). Joud has so many questions for me about my life in America that I can hardly keep up. She already wants me to take her shopping tomorrow.
I am ALREADY learning some Arabic just by being around my family. New words under my belt include: please, thank-you, no problem, bathroom, and beautiful. P.S. - one of the first things my new mom told me was that I was very beautiful. It was a nice way to be welcomed.
Tomorrow, I have orientation at 9 AM, so I should wrap this post up. I love and miss whoever is reading this and I cannot WAIT to start some photography.
ma-salaama,
Kaye.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The Start of a Great Adventure
Thanks to Katie Bor for inspiring me to start this little cyber-hole up again. It's unfortunate that I couldn't come up with the idea myself - I AM leaving the country, after all, and it seems like a good idea to document my travels.
In addition, the Benjamin A. Gilman scholarship I just had the fortune of receiving requires me to do some kind of project involving my study abroad experience. I wonder if a blog will suffice?
I'm spending this week making the rounds, trying to cram in visits with the multitude of people I have to spend ungodly amounts of time with because they're convinced I'm not going to come back alive.
Visiting is a 24/7 job.
I'm also gathering up the last of my trip necessities: an international plug adapter, gifts for my host family, and the Skype screennames of select individuals.
That doesn't leave much time for fantasizing, but when I really want to sit down and get all excited and have a good daydream, I just bust out my scarves. They're beautiful. Beautiful and flowy and so perfectly appropriate for a summer in Amman, Jordan that I can hardly contain myself. But, I must contain myself, because discussion of my journey is sort of a somber topic for others in my home.
6 Days!!! =) =) =) =) =)
In addition, the Benjamin A. Gilman scholarship I just had the fortune of receiving requires me to do some kind of project involving my study abroad experience. I wonder if a blog will suffice?
I'm spending this week making the rounds, trying to cram in visits with the multitude of people I have to spend ungodly amounts of time with because they're convinced I'm not going to come back alive.
Visiting is a 24/7 job.
I'm also gathering up the last of my trip necessities: an international plug adapter, gifts for my host family, and the Skype screennames of select individuals.
That doesn't leave much time for fantasizing, but when I really want to sit down and get all excited and have a good daydream, I just bust out my scarves. They're beautiful. Beautiful and flowy and so perfectly appropriate for a summer in Amman, Jordan that I can hardly contain myself. But, I must contain myself, because discussion of my journey is sort of a somber topic for others in my home.
6 Days!!! =) =) =) =) =)
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