One step at a time, wherever these adventures lead.: Must Start Somewhere

This is the first time in almost 9 months since I have posted any updates. Between last October and August much has happened. Many wonderful travel adventures, experiences, and abrupt eye-opening situations. Each situation continues to present a moment of growth and clarity.

Because many events have taken place during my blog absence, I will need time to back track and hopefully report on current events shortly. Reflecting on 9 months is not an easy feat, and it has tested my patience; probably a factor in what took me so long to start organizing my thoughts again. In addition, the entire process is extremely overwhelming. Nonetheless, I am determined. Luckily I had saved many notes in my blackberry which I emailed to myself. These can help me connect details and link some photos.

I am dedicating upcoming posts to 3 individuals,

whom I was privileged to know and will greatly miss.

Frank Cunningham

Marie Gonnelly

Grandma Pat

November: No Day but Today

I spent some time in Dubai this month to help friend shop for her wedding dress. I will be serving as a witness at her mini ceremony and the big celebration will take place 2013/2014. While we were there, we decided to try out the Dubai Metro system, which was not too bad. Seems to be fairly organized and straight forward. Very family oriented, too.

At the metro platform I took a few pictures, and would have liked to take more but I do not think it is permissible. Soon after I managed to get my images security approached my friend to put her camera away. Also's there's a gold class section too, but we didn't get a chance to get those tickets. However a worker stood on guard/bouncer to make sure the first c;ass door was only accessible by those with appropriate tickets.

Our tickets were 16AED each and we asked the security woman how much first class would be. She said it’s double the cost of a regular one. When asked about the difference between sections she has a sense of humor and opened the door for us to get a glimpse. "Its just the ambiance" sort of with a level of sarcasm. Very welcoming actually. Very clean!!

Must check in and out with your ticket when u board subway and bus

No feet on seats, respectful clothing, no food-"stop by your favorite restaurant instead."

Worth the experience and saved a hassle with major traffic.

Formula One

This time around, I felt slightly invested in the Formula One experience at Yas Island. First my colleagues and I had won free tickets to see the practice run on the tracks for Friday. Of course I had to attend. In addition, a few guests from the UK were in town (for a wedding) and we had to be gracious hosts and show them the best of Abu Dhabi. The free affiliated concerts worked wonders in highlighting the glitz of our city.

My First 10K
November 9 very excited and anxious at the same time- my thoughts when I woke up . That was taken to another level when I met other runners downstairs at 5:15am and realized I was the only staff member with 10 students, and 2 are doing the half marathon. Nonetheless in the moment, I am channeling all the encouragement I have received from family, friends and colleagues. I have to remind myself that this was a personal initiative and not a competition.

Arriving at Yas Island at 6:00am with plenty of time to relax before the race starts at 7:00am. My entire goal-run the entire race and if I exceed my safe goal of 1hr 30mins, then I have accomplished what I had envisioned.
*****Results: 1hr and 11mins 1:11:14 268 entrant out of 335*****

With our students and a fellow faculty member who ran a half marathon barefoot-quite impressive. Next item on my agenda: eating lots of carbs and getting ready for my birthday!

Birthday Countdown

The BIG 30 was on its way, and I was feeling excited to finally cross the line, which many of my good friends had already experienced. I had a plan and list of activities (besides finishing at 10k) and my invitations were already sent. A weekend in Dubai and some time in Abu Dhabi.

My colleagues also had surprise cupcakes for meJ

About this time, I was also learning that my best friend’s father, Frank Cunningham was in the hospital but his health had turned. Then I received a phone call from Kim and it was not the news I was expecting. As much as tried to balance preset plans and planning a short trip to Texas, I had to hit a major pause. I had to find my way to Denton Tx and land before the funeral began. Kim’s family has always been there for mine, especially Frank Cunningham. There was no doubt about my decision and my family was also supportive. Having heard the news, my wonderful friends still improvised a mini get together; we met for brunch before I had to leave.

I left Abu Dhabi on Friday the 23^rd and landed at DFW in time to meet up with Kim and rest of Frank’s family and friends. In the midst of such grief everyone was feeling, this moment gave me an opportunity to reconnect with others who had played a significant role in my life and also meet my adorable nephew John. Spending the week there was absolutely necessary. Also gave me a chance to celebrate my 30^th in multiple ways:

Texas Style Steak which Kim and her husband made in my honor

Jared, Myself, Kim, and Mark in College Station

Kim and John

Me and John, my last night

Since my flight was out of Dubai, it made sense to rearrange festivities upon my return.

As usual my good friends rallied and 2 of them surprised me at the airport. Minutes later our entire entourage met at the hotel, and started preparations to celebrate my birthday. Truly memorable and a great morale booster. Challenging situations in life teach you the value of genuine friendships, importance of support, and the various definitions of the word - family.