Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Christmas 2013

It is that time of the year again.   The time has flown by, and I can't believe that Christmas is almost here.  For once I feel like I'm running behind schedule with most items, like this Christmas letter.  

My second year here in Dubai has been more comfortable, but the whirl wind continues.  The pace at work is faster than ever.   I have to say that I love my students, and I love the curriculum that I am teaching.

With that being said, I want each of you to know that you are in my thoughts constantly.   I am so thankful for all of your support!   Follow me in the review of the year.  I hope I remember everything.

J-just another new year
a-an amazing night under the stars in the Maldives
n-new year with new friends
u-underwater with whale sharks
a-another sunny day
r-running in the morning, still
y-yawning in the afternoon

F-feeling chilly in the early morning
e-easing into a routine, finally
b-becoming familiar with Dubai
r-running, running, running
u-under the covers in the cool evenings
a-away in Doha with the MUN students
r-resting on the couch
y-taking with friends

M-marching to the beat of KHDA inspection
a-away to Miramar with students for WWW
r-reacing for the regulator and diving with students
c-checking to make sure all of the kids are tucked in
h-having fun in the sun

A-aiplane trip to Turkey
p-playing in cappadocia with Wendy
i-Instanbul was amazing
l-laughing during our hot air balloon ride

M-making plans for the summer
a-away at the beach
y-yearning for June

J-just counting down the final days
u-unfortunetely saying goodbye to some good friend
n-next stop - Colorado Springs, Las Vegas, and Utah
e-enjoying snuggle with the cats

J-jogging in the daylight
u-unbelievable time with friends
l-laughing with Audrey in Crested Butte
y-yesh - I'm sick of y's

A-accepting that it is time to go back to Dubai
u-using the last days to pack and rearrange clothes
g-getting the luggage ready to go
u-unsually upset about leaving the cats again
s-saying goodbyes, again
t-time to greet Dubai

S-school starts
e-evaporating out in the heat and humidity
p-planning for Eid break
t-time to have fun with friends
e-enjoying old and new friends
m-making plans for Christmas
b-beach going 
e-exalting in the less hot mornings
r-relaxing in the sun

O-organizing a birthday brunch
c-countless choices of semi--precious stones in Katmandu
t-time to catch another flight
o-off to explore Katmandu
b-being caught off guard with life in Katmandu
e-enjoying my birthday with friends
r-running in the cool mornings - finally

N-nothing like baking banana bread and making toffee
o-opening up new adventures
v-visiting with friends
e-enjoying some down time over UAE Day break
m-making candid yams for out Thanksgiving dinner
b-basking in the sun, yes, in November
e-enjoying Thanksgiving with friends and peanut butter M&Ms
r-roaming around Abu Dhabi

D-decking the Christmas camel with holly
e-excitment building for Thailand
c-counting down the days until break
e-enjoying the Clarke's 30th
m-making to an IB Workshop on International Mindedness
b-busy as all heck
e-eating way too many goodies
r-rushing to the airport for my fight to Thailand

Christmas is soon approaching.  May we all take time to reflect on our lives, and the life of our savior.  Be thankful for all that you have in your life.  Know that I am grateful and thankful for each one of you.  You have touched my life, and I grateful for you.

As a new year rolls into town there are many new opportunities that await.  Many windows and doors open for you.  Walk with faith, courage, and confidence.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year!

Pam