off line

Last week ended nicely.! But the internet connection at home is down since saturday. We are using a 3G card since then. More news soon !

Surprise delivery

After failing to deliver the book case on Saturday March 7, 2009 even though they called to inform us they were on their way, we stopped waiting. Instead we went out for a brunch at Chocolat Royal. Later on Cecilia and Nazlie both visiting Lagos for the first time dropped by for coffee and cake. Then together we went to Cactus Restaurant for dinner. The most talked of place in the city. It was a disappointing experience. The food served was tasteless Lebanese. It is so noisy you would think you are in a sidewalk eatery rather than a restaurant.
Sunday we had a quiet morning followed by a majestic lunch at the Chinese Regent Restaurant in Victoria Island. We had dim sum galore, it was delightful and the service impeccable.
The book cases were still on their way..
Monday started on an extremely sad note. The tragic loss of Jan E. the head of our market in a car accident. He was a remarkable man. He hired me on Sept 1, 2000 in Lebanon to join this company. Everyone was shaken, sad and in shock. This news has put all my petty and vain worries in perspective. It humbled me. Through out the day the news of his death dominated every meeting or phone call in the office.
Just before leaving the office with my guests that evening, I hear that the delivery was done; on top of it they also delivered a complete balcony furniture set. It is true then that good things happens to those who wait! So what is next?

Inshalla boukra

Despite following up and receiving confirmation that the delivery is on schedule; the book shelves were not delivered yesterday.
At one point they told me we are in front of your building!
At another they said we had to return back because we forgot the tools.
On the third call, they finally said the truth; inshalla boukra at 2 pm!
In the meantime my inshalla ok attitude gained another day.

One month

We are here since a month; it went by slowly or let us say not as fast as i am use to!
The settling down is still on going and I firmly take an Inshala boukra attitude now.
My residence permit has not been applied for though I have received all the papers signed and approved. The visa person keeps taking my passport to do nothing with it.
Taking up a membership @ country club is pending an invitation by a member. The rules here are very strict. The invite has not been sent.
This laissez faire attitude is seeping in me too...
I cannot be bothered to join a gym and get back to my fitness routine. Worst of all; in an effort to grow my curly hair a bit long in order to get a new look; I keep postponing the hairdresser appointment but now the white hair is showing all over - I must forget the new hairstyle and fix this. Finally Inshalla boukra the book shelves will be delivered and we get rid of all the remaining boxes in the hallway. Perhaps then our place will be filled with the friendly warmth of our books and I recover my energy!