I promised a few friends I would explain how we went about getting rid of just about all our belongings when we left the United States. The first time, we only had about two and a half months to do so: trying to strike a balance between efficiency and getting some cash. Post all our … Continue reading How to downsize, like really.
Author: newdfw
What it’s like to downsize to a few suitcases
Twice in the last 7 years I've consolidated all our belongings to a few suitcases. One time we were a family of four. The first time, we had a baby (and so much baby stuff). At one point we were living as a family out of 2 hotel rooms (no kitchen) for 70 days. Another … Continue reading What it’s like to downsize to a few suitcases
Finding Home
I'm fascinated by the idea of HOME. After moving more times than my age, I'm searching for its meaning and its location.
What it’s like to be a Hotelwife
Tips for living in a hotel
Thanksgiving in the middle east
When you live, well, not, in the USA, celebrating Thanksgiving can be awkward and downright depressing. The first Thanksgiving abroad is the worst: you haven't adopted new traditions yet and the old ones just don't work. But most people try to force it anyway. The only way around this is to have a big neighbor potluck on … Continue reading Thanksgiving in the middle east
Camel “Farm”
This is a guest post written by my outstanding (and oh so patient) husband. He was personally invited by one of his high school students to visit the family's Bedouin style camel farm in the desert of the Arabian Peninsula. The time finally came, I جيمس والدو (James Waldo) was invited to be the guest … Continue reading Camel “Farm”
Sea Turtles
Where to find sea turtles in the Arab Peninsula.
Potluck Water Truck
This is one of my favorite memories from our first month living in Abu Dhabi. We had a wonderful potluck this weekend with our neighbors, celebrating two weeks of living in our building. Everyone dragged chairs, food, and coolers into our building lobby. We ate chili and fry bread while the kids played soccer in … Continue reading Potluck Water Truck
International Falconry Festival
While we lived in the desert, we had the chance to attend the International Falconry Festival right in our town. Things you need to know: Falcons are the ultimate companion/hunter/pet in the United Arab Emirates. Etihad Airlines allows falcons in the cabin with their owners. These birds are carefully bred, expensive to buy, and treasured … Continue reading International Falconry Festival
Roundabouts
How to drive in a roundabout.
Annoyingly Curious 