First thoughts

It actually runs smoother than I expected. At least it sounds like it runs smoothly. I really don't mind taking 18 flights of stairs. Really.



A common scene. I don't think permits are an issue here.



Boys club?

12.25

I haven't spotted any pyramids yet - but I've been assured they're still there.

OK - so we all make fun of L.A. traffic, myself included. I worked with people who had a 2 hour commute both directions. I really could not understand why one would choose such a commute. Well - some places you have no choice. Tomorrow - I have a maybe 7 mile commute to the school, not far, but I was told to leave at 7am to make the 8am class. I hope they're being overly cautious. They're locals so I doubt. it. I might be spending my entire time just figuring out a quicker way to/from Nasr City.



Mom - I actually found a nativity scene to add to your collection!

AND FOR THE LAST TIME: I've honestly never been safer than when I travel in a Muslim country. They are all very thoughtful, kind, considerate, patient and forgiving. There are random but heart felt Christmas decorations and a few actual faux Christmas trees decorated complete with snow, plus, quite a few businesses are rotating Christmas music. And I've been given many Christmas blessings (which include a mention of this being the celebration of the birth of Christ), very unexpected and far more sincere than what you hear in the states. Muslims are very conscious of what this holiday represents in the Christian faith. What can you say about theirs?

12.24

Frankfurt airport - no christmas decorations. But you can buy special holiday grapa gift sets in the duty free shops. Last year when passing through to/from Oman I flew through Schipol and they were quite festive. Chanda, Craig and Evie got a taste of that.

Met a couple of guys from Orange County on their way to Tanzania. Can't remember their names (seriously - I'd been awake for nearly 29 hours - no luck sleeping on the plane) Ayway - he had spent a month studying in Cairo a few years ago and gave me a few tips. Good thing I wrote those down. Oh - and he picked Tanzania just because it's there, and he's got a good chance of seeing a free-roaming lion. Not sure how he's going to do it but will figure it out when he gets there. My kind of people. My was less than daring: Essaouria because they had a ficus tree older than the U.S. Ah well....there's always next time.