Monday March 31, 2008
Two Observations for the Day.
1. Thank God that I learned English as a native lanugage. Tonight I had to correct the essays written by my esl class that I teach and I must say that being a native speaker of English is a god-send. I mean these kids really struggle to construct sentences that are clear and grammatically correct. I also bet these papers take a good amount of time to write and still they come out way worse then these rapidly made blogs. This is why I try to take a good amount of time to really go over their papers and rewrite as improve it as much as possible. I would like to consider myself an aspiring Ms. Franke or Prof. Lindley with my critiques, but I don't know if they are getting through to them. It's so frustating to not be able to help them more and to be limited by time and space. By the way, have I mentioned just how difficult teaching is? I know have much more respect for all my teachers and professors and way more respect for those teachers who are truly good. I don't know how they do it.
Second, I want to comment on the mentality of our hallmates. I call the 4th floor I live on the zoo. It's not out of affection, as the key differnce between the zoo that was any section in Keenan, minus 2North and the zoo that is Zamalek Dorms is that at 11:00 the noise stops in Keenan. People study in Keenan or they know that other people are sleeping or studying so they don't blare the music or hold dance parties at the early hours of the morning. Keep in mind that these dance parties are just guys. If there were girls at these parties I might be more tolerable, but as such their simply lack of respect and awareness is tiresome. I think every night a different person from the floor has gone out and told them to pipe down. Either they are malicious jerks who want to mess with us, or they are just clueless and don't realize that they are not the center of the world. I mean granted this is a hard jump to make and it actually occurs in many steps but these guys are still on the first pad. I don't know how to get through to them, and at a certain point I don't really care to try and make ammends with them. This is because they are unwilling to make any steps, so why even bother.
Okay, enough of my rant about English and respect. Hopefully next time I will talk about something interesting in regards to Egypt.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Day 71
Sunday March 30th
Today I took the first few steps towards trying to improve myself. I started by cleaning my room. A clean room is always a good step to a clean mind. It did help, as I felt better about my surroundings. I also did laundry today, which although always a stressful endeavor in the dorms as there are very few washers and dryers, it still felt good to do. Now the next step will be to keep my room clean. Responsibility is such a tough habit to form.
I also went to boxing. Apparently me and this other American are the only two good enough to go to Boxing Nationals. We leave the 7th. I have to buy a mouth guard. I don't know if it was the Captain pushing us more or me pushing myself, but today's workout was tough. I started off by showing up early and running for awhile and then we just did conditioning for awhile. At the end I could barely lift my arms. Its a good thing we then just worked with the sandbag, because I was exhausted. It felt good to be that tired. It means I actually challenged my body.
Still looking for an apartment. I found somebody who knows a good place and hopefully JP will take me to look around this week.
Today I took the first few steps towards trying to improve myself. I started by cleaning my room. A clean room is always a good step to a clean mind. It did help, as I felt better about my surroundings. I also did laundry today, which although always a stressful endeavor in the dorms as there are very few washers and dryers, it still felt good to do. Now the next step will be to keep my room clean. Responsibility is such a tough habit to form.
I also went to boxing. Apparently me and this other American are the only two good enough to go to Boxing Nationals. We leave the 7th. I have to buy a mouth guard. I don't know if it was the Captain pushing us more or me pushing myself, but today's workout was tough. I started off by showing up early and running for awhile and then we just did conditioning for awhile. At the end I could barely lift my arms. Its a good thing we then just worked with the sandbag, because I was exhausted. It felt good to be that tired. It means I actually challenged my body.
Still looking for an apartment. I found somebody who knows a good place and hopefully JP will take me to look around this week.
Day 70
Saturday March 29th
I woke up and found myself still tired. I had slept a little bit away from everybody else to be with my thoughts. But since I had a hoodie and had slept on the leeward side of the mountain I avoided being covered in sand like the rest of my compadres. It was really bright and I couldn't sleep anymore and no matter how peacefully you sleep, I still couldn't find the mountain all that comfortable. Although, I would gladly do it again.
We set off towards the white desert this time. Here my constant whining and asking finally convinced our guides to let me drive. It was awesome. Driving in the sand is kind of like driving in the snow and kind of nothing nothing like it at all. You don't have any traction, but at the same time, slight movements make you totally change direction. Also there is a lot of stuff in a desert that you can hit, so they kept me to the baby course. I still had a lot of fun, and cruising through the desert at 100 km/hour is always a hoot.
We continued to drive around and see the sights and eventually went to an oasis for lunch. We just beat a group of 2 tour buses packed full of Belgium or French High schoolers. I would hate to take tours in those buses as they are constricting your freedom in traveling and limit your experience. However, from the looks of the kids I don't know if many of them could survive in Egypt without the tour company. Although at the same time, I don't know if I have the confidence and skill to survive here either.
I woke up and found myself still tired. I had slept a little bit away from everybody else to be with my thoughts. But since I had a hoodie and had slept on the leeward side of the mountain I avoided being covered in sand like the rest of my compadres. It was really bright and I couldn't sleep anymore and no matter how peacefully you sleep, I still couldn't find the mountain all that comfortable. Although, I would gladly do it again.
We set off towards the white desert this time. Here my constant whining and asking finally convinced our guides to let me drive. It was awesome. Driving in the sand is kind of like driving in the snow and kind of nothing nothing like it at all. You don't have any traction, but at the same time, slight movements make you totally change direction. Also there is a lot of stuff in a desert that you can hit, so they kept me to the baby course. I still had a lot of fun, and cruising through the desert at 100 km/hour is always a hoot.
We continued to drive around and see the sights and eventually went to an oasis for lunch. We just beat a group of 2 tour buses packed full of Belgium or French High schoolers. I would hate to take tours in those buses as they are constricting your freedom in traveling and limit your experience. However, from the looks of the kids I don't know if many of them could survive in Egypt without the tour company. Although at the same time, I don't know if I have the confidence and skill to survive here either.
Day 70
Friday, March 28th
Today we are going to the Black and White desert. These deserts are part of the Sahara, so you could say we are going to the Sahara. Pretty crazy. We woke up at 7:00 AM and pilled into a mini-bus that would take us to the Oasis. While, many people continued to sleep, I couldn't put my new book down.
The book is written almost as a diary of this man's journey in the marines through OCS. There was one part that stuck out to me as particularly interesting. The author was talking about how he had never been truly tested. Sure, his college years at Dartmouth were hard, but he was always sure he would make it through with good grades. There was never really the chance of being tested and failing. This was not the case at OCS, as the school really pushes you to think and act as an adult. This resonated deeply with me, because I too have never truly been tested. College has been tough as was high school. But I have never been asked to give me all and find out that its not good enough. I have always had my hand held throughout life, by people who love me and want to protect me and help me. But even though, I am now at the age of 21 I am not grown up, I do not take life seriously. I would stay I am grown up when it comes to one thing: school. I take that very seriously, because in the 5th grade someone challenged me and said that I didn't have what it takes to make it. No one has ever challenged me when it comes to anything else in life, whether it be physical, emotional, relationship-wise, or mental. I am not sure if I know how to think on my feet or problem-solve or act as a leader should. I have assumed leadership positions throughout my life, but I have no idea if I am a good leader. I know that when it comes to confidence, I am not always swimming in it, and that when the pressure is on, I haven't had any experiences where I can take the heat. I freak out over the little stuff and stress and don't have the confidence to make it through.
So I have been thinking a lot about what OCS offers me, and about how it fits into my life path. Two thoughts have been surfacing. The first, is whether or not I have what it takes to actually be a Marine officer. I have assumed that if I could qualify physically, meaning my eyes and physical strength then I would be able to make it. No, reading over what OCS is actually like, I have begun to question whether or not I have what it takes to be a good leader. The second, is the quote by Thucydides, that states roughly that the best man is the one trained in the severest school. I would like to imagine that my intellectual mind has been trained in one of the more severe schools in the world, and that as a result of it I have come out a smarter more educated man. This I am not to sure of. But I also know, that grades aren't everything in life, in fact academics are only a small facet of life. If I want to be the best person I can be, the most able, the most competent, the most able to make a difference in the world, maybe OCS is the perfect school to continue that part of my "education." John Paul has been talking about how the moment when you stop being a child and start acting like an adult. I know that in most aspects of my life I still act like a child, and I want to change that. I need to get on the ball and start acting with responsibility. I think OCS offers me exactly that.
As for the Black and White Desert, it was also amazing. We got to drive around in Toyota Land-Cruisers and the people who took out spoke perfect English and we were able to talk all about Egypt and life in general. It was a lot of fun. Also since they were a bit on the younger side and we were a bit on the younger side they took us over over all the rocks and hills and raced through the hills. There is a reason they call this part of Egypt, Toyota Town, because all the jeeps they used were the land-cruisers, middle-east version. You can't buy these in America as they are designed specifically to endure the harshness of the desert. We got to travel all over and see some pretty spectacular views of the desert.
At night we camped out in the middle of no where, and it was incredible. There was a nice wind to keep the bugs away and the sky was clear. You could see the universe stretch on forever and it made you feel every small. It also made me wonder, in a universe so epically big, so indescribably immense, why would I think that I am some one special. I am a less than a speck in the sands of the time and space, yet for some reason I have the audacity to think that I am someone special, that I for some reason matter. But at the same think, I don't think this audacity is so ridiculous, I don't think its absurd to believe that I am someone important and that my existence for some reason matters. Now, this might be naive of me to think, but I do believe it. I mean in a universe so huge why should I care about anyone, they too are just specks. But that's the thing, I think we are all special and I think the only way we can explain how I can not only think but actually believe that I matter is because there is something more, something else out there. Maybe, its just my fear of being alone, but i don't think so. It's difficult to describe, but I feel as if, there is more than just this earthly existence. I will gladly talk to anyone about these thoughts, but not in the confines of the blog anymore.
I felt well that night, under the stars, away from civilization, but at the same time so close.
Today we are going to the Black and White desert. These deserts are part of the Sahara, so you could say we are going to the Sahara. Pretty crazy. We woke up at 7:00 AM and pilled into a mini-bus that would take us to the Oasis. While, many people continued to sleep, I couldn't put my new book down.
The book is written almost as a diary of this man's journey in the marines through OCS. There was one part that stuck out to me as particularly interesting. The author was talking about how he had never been truly tested. Sure, his college years at Dartmouth were hard, but he was always sure he would make it through with good grades. There was never really the chance of being tested and failing. This was not the case at OCS, as the school really pushes you to think and act as an adult. This resonated deeply with me, because I too have never truly been tested. College has been tough as was high school. But I have never been asked to give me all and find out that its not good enough. I have always had my hand held throughout life, by people who love me and want to protect me and help me. But even though, I am now at the age of 21 I am not grown up, I do not take life seriously. I would stay I am grown up when it comes to one thing: school. I take that very seriously, because in the 5th grade someone challenged me and said that I didn't have what it takes to make it. No one has ever challenged me when it comes to anything else in life, whether it be physical, emotional, relationship-wise, or mental. I am not sure if I know how to think on my feet or problem-solve or act as a leader should. I have assumed leadership positions throughout my life, but I have no idea if I am a good leader. I know that when it comes to confidence, I am not always swimming in it, and that when the pressure is on, I haven't had any experiences where I can take the heat. I freak out over the little stuff and stress and don't have the confidence to make it through.
So I have been thinking a lot about what OCS offers me, and about how it fits into my life path. Two thoughts have been surfacing. The first, is whether or not I have what it takes to actually be a Marine officer. I have assumed that if I could qualify physically, meaning my eyes and physical strength then I would be able to make it. No, reading over what OCS is actually like, I have begun to question whether or not I have what it takes to be a good leader. The second, is the quote by Thucydides, that states roughly that the best man is the one trained in the severest school. I would like to imagine that my intellectual mind has been trained in one of the more severe schools in the world, and that as a result of it I have come out a smarter more educated man. This I am not to sure of. But I also know, that grades aren't everything in life, in fact academics are only a small facet of life. If I want to be the best person I can be, the most able, the most competent, the most able to make a difference in the world, maybe OCS is the perfect school to continue that part of my "education." John Paul has been talking about how the moment when you stop being a child and start acting like an adult. I know that in most aspects of my life I still act like a child, and I want to change that. I need to get on the ball and start acting with responsibility. I think OCS offers me exactly that.
As for the Black and White Desert, it was also amazing. We got to drive around in Toyota Land-Cruisers and the people who took out spoke perfect English and we were able to talk all about Egypt and life in general. It was a lot of fun. Also since they were a bit on the younger side and we were a bit on the younger side they took us over over all the rocks and hills and raced through the hills. There is a reason they call this part of Egypt, Toyota Town, because all the jeeps they used were the land-cruisers, middle-east version. You can't buy these in America as they are designed specifically to endure the harshness of the desert. We got to travel all over and see some pretty spectacular views of the desert.
At night we camped out in the middle of no where, and it was incredible. There was a nice wind to keep the bugs away and the sky was clear. You could see the universe stretch on forever and it made you feel every small. It also made me wonder, in a universe so epically big, so indescribably immense, why would I think that I am some one special. I am a less than a speck in the sands of the time and space, yet for some reason I have the audacity to think that I am someone special, that I for some reason matter. But at the same think, I don't think this audacity is so ridiculous, I don't think its absurd to believe that I am someone important and that my existence for some reason matters. Now, this might be naive of me to think, but I do believe it. I mean in a universe so huge why should I care about anyone, they too are just specks. But that's the thing, I think we are all special and I think the only way we can explain how I can not only think but actually believe that I matter is because there is something more, something else out there. Maybe, its just my fear of being alone, but i don't think so. It's difficult to describe, but I feel as if, there is more than just this earthly existence. I will gladly talk to anyone about these thoughts, but not in the confines of the blog anymore.
I felt well that night, under the stars, away from civilization, but at the same time so close.
Day 69
Thursday March 27th
Really not much to report from the front today. Spent some time at the DDC, where I actually found some good links to good information. I also picked up a book on the making of the United States Marine Officer, called "One Bullet Away." When my battery died, I read it at work. After tutoring I read it on the bus. After Dinner, which I shared with Courtney's dad and sister who were visiting, I read it until late at night. I couldn't put it down. Perhaps because it was the first book I had read that wasn't about politics or for class. Perhaps because there was something else that really interested me. I did kind of feel like Rory though when she is always reading her books, in any free time she could. This also made me miss home.
Really not much to report from the front today. Spent some time at the DDC, where I actually found some good links to good information. I also picked up a book on the making of the United States Marine Officer, called "One Bullet Away." When my battery died, I read it at work. After tutoring I read it on the bus. After Dinner, which I shared with Courtney's dad and sister who were visiting, I read it until late at night. I couldn't put it down. Perhaps because it was the first book I had read that wasn't about politics or for class. Perhaps because there was something else that really interested me. I did kind of feel like Rory though when she is always reading her books, in any free time she could. This also made me miss home.
Day 68
Wednesday, March 26th
Another day of classes, minus Art and Architecture. Classes are still moving, expect for Ivan's which I found ridiculously difficult to stay awake for this time. It could be because I am really tired or it could be because he is really boring. Probably both. On another front, a lot of people are getting sick, like violently sick around school. I don't know what's going around but a lot of people are either coming back from their vacations with something or something is going around the campus. It has symptoms that sound like a stomach virus. I am taking extra attention to washing my hands and what not. Or maybe, me drinking the water is going to make me immune to the effects. You never know.
Another day of classes, minus Art and Architecture. Classes are still moving, expect for Ivan's which I found ridiculously difficult to stay awake for this time. It could be because I am really tired or it could be because he is really boring. Probably both. On another front, a lot of people are getting sick, like violently sick around school. I don't know what's going around but a lot of people are either coming back from their vacations with something or something is going around the campus. It has symptoms that sound like a stomach virus. I am taking extra attention to washing my hands and what not. Or maybe, me drinking the water is going to make me immune to the effects. You never know.
Day 67
Tuesday March 25th,
The easy class day, Tuesdays are always welcome. I decided to not go into the DDC and instead catch up on some reading and sleeping and get ready for my English class tonight. As Katie, John's future wife, was in town, it was just me teaching the kids tonight. I felt bad for them. Anyways I set up a good routine where they would have lots of time to talk in conversation. Its really tough teaching this group of kids because, A. we only see them for 1 and 1/2 hours every week, which just isn't enough for them. Second, there are so many different levels in the class and so many different things that people need, I now understand how hard teaching must be, especially if the kids can't speak the same language. Teaching is tough, especially for some one like me, who has no teaching experience and doesn't really know the material all that well. I blame West Valley for not making grammar at all important in their curriculum.
The easy class day, Tuesdays are always welcome. I decided to not go into the DDC and instead catch up on some reading and sleeping and get ready for my English class tonight. As Katie, John's future wife, was in town, it was just me teaching the kids tonight. I felt bad for them. Anyways I set up a good routine where they would have lots of time to talk in conversation. Its really tough teaching this group of kids because, A. we only see them for 1 and 1/2 hours every week, which just isn't enough for them. Second, there are so many different levels in the class and so many different things that people need, I now understand how hard teaching must be, especially if the kids can't speak the same language. Teaching is tough, especially for some one like me, who has no teaching experience and doesn't really know the material all that well. I blame West Valley for not making grammar at all important in their curriculum.
Day 66
Monday March 24th,
Class. I was so tried after my trip that class was tough for once. Arabic didn't come as quickly and it took longer. My brain wasn't up to speed, so listening was tough. Luckily though I made it through the day and since my Art and Architecture class was canceled for the week, I used that welcome break to not go crazy. A pretty typical day through and through, although it did feel pretty weird coming back to Cairo after being in Jordan and Israel. I am not quite sure how the trip changed me or if it did at all. I am not sure how Cairo at all is changing me. Otherwise, all systems are go, other than being tired and a little sick from Jordan. However, I feel a runny nose is kind of a permanent fix here in Cairo as your body tries to cope with the massive pollution intake.
Class. I was so tried after my trip that class was tough for once. Arabic didn't come as quickly and it took longer. My brain wasn't up to speed, so listening was tough. Luckily though I made it through the day and since my Art and Architecture class was canceled for the week, I used that welcome break to not go crazy. A pretty typical day through and through, although it did feel pretty weird coming back to Cairo after being in Jordan and Israel. I am not quite sure how the trip changed me or if it did at all. I am not sure how Cairo at all is changing me. Otherwise, all systems are go, other than being tired and a little sick from Jordan. However, I feel a runny nose is kind of a permanent fix here in Cairo as your body tries to cope with the massive pollution intake.
Day 65
Sunday March 23rd
Today I woke up bug-bite free. I had wore the same clothes as last time, except this time I covered my face with a towel and put bug repellent on my ankles, hands, waist, and face. Anywhere bugs had a place of entrance. So instead of eating the guys the girls had eaten alive that night. We still didn't sleep past 7 and so spent the morning on the beach again. The beach reminds me a lot of Flathead lack in Montana, where you can walk out forever and the water is warm and there mountains right next to it.
We left around 10 to get to back through Israel. We weren't sure how long they would detain our muslim friend so we decided to give her a lot of time before we had to catch the 4:30 bus. This time they only messed with her for about 15 minutes. We were thus able to spend a lot of time in Eliat, hanging out in the malls. Israel, is like a little America in the Middle East. They dress and act Western. We went shopping and got some good deals. It was weird being in a country where they had infrastructure and space in between buildings and didn't have 30 people doing one person's job. Development is nice, running water and bathrooms are nice. I miss development.
We were really happy to get back to Egypt. Most of the security guards greeted us with open arms and didn't mess with anybody. Except for at the metal detector. Here they said the knives we bought at souvenirs were big problems in Egypt. I knew they were shitting us, and simply wanted to keep the knives for themselves, and I wasn't about to let them screw us over. So as I argued in terrible arabic and knowing that eventually they would have to cave in to the power of my passport, our little muslim friend came up to talk with them and said how we were her friends and that the gifts were for her brothers (in arabic of course). They caved in and let us pass. The girl felt better as finally her being of a brown descent helped her rather then hurt her. I remarked at how f.u.b.a.r. race is in general.
After crossing the border we found a mini-bus driver who was willing to take us for 40 pounds each straight to zamalek. It was 3:30 and we would have had to wait for a hour to get out of there. Plus, the bus only took them to New Cairo station and we would have to catch a taxi the rest of the way. It was scheduled to get in at around midnight. We opted for the mini-bus and gave our bus-tickets to other AUC students who were also making their trips home. It turned out to be a good purchase as we got back by 10 and had some time to settle in before class started tomorrow.
Today I woke up bug-bite free. I had wore the same clothes as last time, except this time I covered my face with a towel and put bug repellent on my ankles, hands, waist, and face. Anywhere bugs had a place of entrance. So instead of eating the guys the girls had eaten alive that night. We still didn't sleep past 7 and so spent the morning on the beach again. The beach reminds me a lot of Flathead lack in Montana, where you can walk out forever and the water is warm and there mountains right next to it.
We left around 10 to get to back through Israel. We weren't sure how long they would detain our muslim friend so we decided to give her a lot of time before we had to catch the 4:30 bus. This time they only messed with her for about 15 minutes. We were thus able to spend a lot of time in Eliat, hanging out in the malls. Israel, is like a little America in the Middle East. They dress and act Western. We went shopping and got some good deals. It was weird being in a country where they had infrastructure and space in between buildings and didn't have 30 people doing one person's job. Development is nice, running water and bathrooms are nice. I miss development.
We were really happy to get back to Egypt. Most of the security guards greeted us with open arms and didn't mess with anybody. Except for at the metal detector. Here they said the knives we bought at souvenirs were big problems in Egypt. I knew they were shitting us, and simply wanted to keep the knives for themselves, and I wasn't about to let them screw us over. So as I argued in terrible arabic and knowing that eventually they would have to cave in to the power of my passport, our little muslim friend came up to talk with them and said how we were her friends and that the gifts were for her brothers (in arabic of course). They caved in and let us pass. The girl felt better as finally her being of a brown descent helped her rather then hurt her. I remarked at how f.u.b.a.r. race is in general.
After crossing the border we found a mini-bus driver who was willing to take us for 40 pounds each straight to zamalek. It was 3:30 and we would have had to wait for a hour to get out of there. Plus, the bus only took them to New Cairo station and we would have to catch a taxi the rest of the way. It was scheduled to get in at around midnight. We opted for the mini-bus and gave our bus-tickets to other AUC students who were also making their trips home. It turned out to be a good purchase as we got back by 10 and had some time to settle in before class started tomorrow.
Day 63
Saturday March 22nd,
Last night I decided to sleep covering my body from head to toe. I used my hoodie, long pants, and socks. I then covered my face with my hands. The mosquitoes still annoyed me all night, waking me up and buzzing in or around my ears. I hated that hostel. When I woke up my hands were covered in bites at least 10 to a hand. It was very annoying.
We woke up at 7:00, unable to sleep anymore in the heat. We then waited around till about 9:00 for breakfast. The breakfast was simple Mediterranean food complete with the sweet tea, which i consumed in large quantities. After breakfast we went down to beach again to cool off. I forgot to mention, but on Thursday when we went down to the beach, JP happened to step on on some sea urchins. These are some very unfriendly creatures to step on as their long spikes hurt like hell. We weren't sure what to do, but this guy came along with his flute and bagged cotton candy and told us that we have to put cigarettes out on them, or else he has to go to the hospital. We thought he was shitting us, put he insisted on it, and even performed the process himself. I have video of it. Its actually hilarious. The guy wouldn't accept any payment and said that Allah would pay him. Nice guy.
Well at about 1 or so, Jameel showed us to take us to Wadi Rum desert. This is Jordan's other big attraction in the South and we spent the rest of the afternoon until sunset riding around in the back of a Toyota truck soaking in the sights, sun, and sand. It made me really miss my truck from back home. The Wadi Rum desert is where Lawrence of Arabia fought the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. The guide showed us where he kept his horses and where he stayed. Pretty sweet.
We got back for dinner and got dropped off in Akaba. We had eaten at the same restaurant for the last two nights and decided to change up to something new. However, the new experience we got wasn't the food but the ride back. Taxi's are pretty expensive and when you are traveling with 8 people you need more than one. So we went looking for a mini-bus which is the way to get around. However, the mini-bus driver we got was not what we expected when we got in. He seemed pretty nice at first, but then he offered us a cigarette that turned out to not be a the normal kind of cigarette. Luckily, none of us smoke, as this high was clearly smoking hash while driving. He was really having a good time and when we made it back to the hostel we wanted to break-dance on the beach. We gave him a fake-phone number and told him we would call him. He was one crazy guy, and I am happy that the car couldn't go to fast up the hills because of us.
Last night I decided to sleep covering my body from head to toe. I used my hoodie, long pants, and socks. I then covered my face with my hands. The mosquitoes still annoyed me all night, waking me up and buzzing in or around my ears. I hated that hostel. When I woke up my hands were covered in bites at least 10 to a hand. It was very annoying.
We woke up at 7:00, unable to sleep anymore in the heat. We then waited around till about 9:00 for breakfast. The breakfast was simple Mediterranean food complete with the sweet tea, which i consumed in large quantities. After breakfast we went down to beach again to cool off. I forgot to mention, but on Thursday when we went down to the beach, JP happened to step on on some sea urchins. These are some very unfriendly creatures to step on as their long spikes hurt like hell. We weren't sure what to do, but this guy came along with his flute and bagged cotton candy and told us that we have to put cigarettes out on them, or else he has to go to the hospital. We thought he was shitting us, put he insisted on it, and even performed the process himself. I have video of it. Its actually hilarious. The guy wouldn't accept any payment and said that Allah would pay him. Nice guy.
Well at about 1 or so, Jameel showed us to take us to Wadi Rum desert. This is Jordan's other big attraction in the South and we spent the rest of the afternoon until sunset riding around in the back of a Toyota truck soaking in the sights, sun, and sand. It made me really miss my truck from back home. The Wadi Rum desert is where Lawrence of Arabia fought the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. The guide showed us where he kept his horses and where he stayed. Pretty sweet.
We got back for dinner and got dropped off in Akaba. We had eaten at the same restaurant for the last two nights and decided to change up to something new. However, the new experience we got wasn't the food but the ride back. Taxi's are pretty expensive and when you are traveling with 8 people you need more than one. So we went looking for a mini-bus which is the way to get around. However, the mini-bus driver we got was not what we expected when we got in. He seemed pretty nice at first, but then he offered us a cigarette that turned out to not be a the normal kind of cigarette. Luckily, none of us smoke, as this high was clearly smoking hash while driving. He was really having a good time and when we made it back to the hostel we wanted to break-dance on the beach. We gave him a fake-phone number and told him we would call him. He was one crazy guy, and I am happy that the car couldn't go to fast up the hills because of us.
Day 62
Friday March 21st,
Today we went to Petra. Petra, according to the recent online world poll has been voted, one of the new wonders of the world. I have been hearing about the splendors of Petra since my first semester at Notre Dame, when Professor Amar ranted about it for what seemed like weeks. Petra is probably the number one tourist site in all of Jordan and after today I could understand why its gained such a reputation.
We woke up at 6:00 AM in order to get picked up at 6:30 by Jameel, our friendly mini-bus driver who we hired through the hostel. In all reality, we couldn't have slept that much later because the sun beat through the poorly constructed bamboo stalks and it became way too hot to sleep. I had decided to sleep in my sweatshirt and shorts and noticed bites all over my knees and legs as soon as I woke up. The bugs had come out that night and had feasted on me and the other guys making for a very uncomfortable night. So by 6:30 Jameel showed up, surprisingly exactly on time, and we made our way towards Petra. I slept most of the way in the mini-bus. Sleeping in such a small space takes ingenuity and a low comfort threshold. There is no way to really recline or stretch out. I think there are some pictures on facebook documenting my sleeping arrangements. Regardless, it was still better than the hut that we stayed in at the hostel.
I awoke during the trip to find us pulling up to a highway overlook. Jordan is a beautiful country, it kind of reminds me of Montana near Flat-head lake mixed with Washington around where Lake Missoula sculpted the landscape, mixed with the Arizona desert. So gorgeous. We took some pictures as all tourists do whenever they show up somewhere. I wonder what people did before they had cameras when they traveled? I personally don't take so many pictures because I like to enjoy the scenery rather then just snap shots of it.
We finally got to Petra around 9:00 AM. Showing up in the Morning is the best idea, not only because its cooler but you get more time at a massive area and the early on sites look best with the sunlight on them. Petra is a good couple clicks from the entrance city of Abu Mussa and is reached by following the Petra Aqueduct road. This canyon is stunningly beautiful in itself and it takes you along this aqueduct carved into the side of the canyon. As you meander through the canyon suddenly you run into a road block of people all with their cameras out. I was like, "what the heck are all these tourists doing." Then you look up and see the Treasury in full light through the canyon walls. This is like one of those magical "oh wow" moments and has been well documented by many photographers. I think you are to google Petra this is one of the first pictures you see.
However the Treasury is only one tiny part of Petra. The city is huge as it used to hold 40,000 people I think. The greatest part about touring Petra is that you can pretty much go wherever you want. There are a lot of easy paths for the old people to follow, but if you have some energy and some nimbleness in climbing you can go just about anywhere in this expansive canyon city. I took advantage of my youth and not only climbed amongst the tombs but also just went off the path entirely and started hiking through the desert and mountains. I found myself alone on a mountain in completely tranquil spot. I understand the fears of the vanishing quiet, and here in Petra I found one of those spots where it was just me and mother nature.
Petra is all about exploring. The next time I go I would definitely bring power bars or energy drinks or something, because all the climbing around wears you down. There is a lot of tombs to see and a lot of exploring to be done and the only thing that kept us from doing more was the lack of energy. Some people do Petra in three days. We did it in one and we were absolutely exhausted afterwards. I remedied this problem by buying ice-cream from the Indiana Jones Shop. It was amazing.
Jameel our driver picked us up and took us to watch sunset over the Jordanian Mountains and then we were back to the hell that was our hostel.
Today we went to Petra. Petra, according to the recent online world poll has been voted, one of the new wonders of the world. I have been hearing about the splendors of Petra since my first semester at Notre Dame, when Professor Amar ranted about it for what seemed like weeks. Petra is probably the number one tourist site in all of Jordan and after today I could understand why its gained such a reputation.
We woke up at 6:00 AM in order to get picked up at 6:30 by Jameel, our friendly mini-bus driver who we hired through the hostel. In all reality, we couldn't have slept that much later because the sun beat through the poorly constructed bamboo stalks and it became way too hot to sleep. I had decided to sleep in my sweatshirt and shorts and noticed bites all over my knees and legs as soon as I woke up. The bugs had come out that night and had feasted on me and the other guys making for a very uncomfortable night. So by 6:30 Jameel showed up, surprisingly exactly on time, and we made our way towards Petra. I slept most of the way in the mini-bus. Sleeping in such a small space takes ingenuity and a low comfort threshold. There is no way to really recline or stretch out. I think there are some pictures on facebook documenting my sleeping arrangements. Regardless, it was still better than the hut that we stayed in at the hostel.
I awoke during the trip to find us pulling up to a highway overlook. Jordan is a beautiful country, it kind of reminds me of Montana near Flat-head lake mixed with Washington around where Lake Missoula sculpted the landscape, mixed with the Arizona desert. So gorgeous. We took some pictures as all tourists do whenever they show up somewhere. I wonder what people did before they had cameras when they traveled? I personally don't take so many pictures because I like to enjoy the scenery rather then just snap shots of it.
We finally got to Petra around 9:00 AM. Showing up in the Morning is the best idea, not only because its cooler but you get more time at a massive area and the early on sites look best with the sunlight on them. Petra is a good couple clicks from the entrance city of Abu Mussa and is reached by following the Petra Aqueduct road. This canyon is stunningly beautiful in itself and it takes you along this aqueduct carved into the side of the canyon. As you meander through the canyon suddenly you run into a road block of people all with their cameras out. I was like, "what the heck are all these tourists doing." Then you look up and see the Treasury in full light through the canyon walls. This is like one of those magical "oh wow" moments and has been well documented by many photographers. I think you are to google Petra this is one of the first pictures you see.
However the Treasury is only one tiny part of Petra. The city is huge as it used to hold 40,000 people I think. The greatest part about touring Petra is that you can pretty much go wherever you want. There are a lot of easy paths for the old people to follow, but if you have some energy and some nimbleness in climbing you can go just about anywhere in this expansive canyon city. I took advantage of my youth and not only climbed amongst the tombs but also just went off the path entirely and started hiking through the desert and mountains. I found myself alone on a mountain in completely tranquil spot. I understand the fears of the vanishing quiet, and here in Petra I found one of those spots where it was just me and mother nature.
Petra is all about exploring. The next time I go I would definitely bring power bars or energy drinks or something, because all the climbing around wears you down. There is a lot of tombs to see and a lot of exploring to be done and the only thing that kept us from doing more was the lack of energy. Some people do Petra in three days. We did it in one and we were absolutely exhausted afterwards. I remedied this problem by buying ice-cream from the Indiana Jones Shop. It was amazing.
Jameel our driver picked us up and took us to watch sunset over the Jordanian Mountains and then we were back to the hell that was our hostel.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Day 61
Thursday March 20th,
Leaving Egypt was not a problem at all. The bus let us off at the Taba bus stop which was about a 10 minute walk from the Israel border. It was about 6:00 or 7:00 in the morning. Since we were not sure about how crowded the bus would be on the way back we decided to play it safe rather than sorry and buy the return bus tickets as soon we got there. Only one other group of travelers did this. Some didn't do it because they weren't sure when they coming back and we don't know why others didn't do it. We felt like were either really ahead of the game or missing a rather important piece of information. Anyways, we walked to the Egyptian border filled out the paper-work and were good to go. We had to pass through some metal detectors but in Egypt these mean nothing if we are foreign looking. I have stopped even emptying my pockets of medal to try and not set off the alarm. So our exit visas were stamped and we left the country for the nominal fee of two pounds. It pays to the have the visa.
The security situation on the other side of the border was a completely different story. Luckily we had heard all of stories about the super-secure nature of Israeli society and were ready for the change of pace. First of all, being foreign was not a free pass. They stopped us and made us go through the same metal detectors as everybody else. Second, if you weren't white, you were singled out. Luckily, since it was so early in the morning the only people passing through were students. So a lot of the Arab, or Black or Brown kids got the benefit of being associated with the white students. However, they were still given more questioning and eventually ended up taking much longer to get through the security. The group ahead of me, had one kid an American who was born in Africa who had a very Muslim name. He was pulled aside early on. The one Muslim who was traveling with us, who is one of the most innocent sounding and looking girls I have ever seen got held for 3 hours at the border. They asked her questions about everything from her parents to her religion. Apparently they were running back-ground checks while they kept her waiting. The other story is that they just wanted to mess with her. Us white folk got through in about 15 minutes. Luckily the border station is right on the Red Sea and waiting around there wasn't the worst thing in the world, at least for us.
While were waiting for our friend to get through, Ryan and I went exploring outside of the border gate. We actually went looking for Megan, but couldn't find her. We did find a rather large recycling bin though, which through us both for a loop. Not being able to find Megan was bit disconcerting, and goes to show the necessity of having designated meeting zones and following the three most important rules of of wilderness travel. We did eventually find her, exactly where she said she was going to be, but still not in plain view. Anyways, we loaded up into a white Mercedes mini-bus and for 50 shekkals were on our way to the Jordanian Border. During this time we dared not speak in any Arabic, because although it is an official language we didn't want to say anything that might set the security state on us. And a security state it is. Rather than the black wool clothed, AK-47 wielding, sitting down, tattered Egyptian security, many of the Israeli security forces wore casual clothes including Crocs, khaki's and polo shirts. However, there was one striking different, these guys also held black and yellow M-16's, and stood with the gun around their shoulders, finger running along side the edge of the trigger box. These guys looked serious.
We didn't stop in Israel on our first trip. We just saw the development from the windows of the car and it looked amazing. However, when we did get to Jordan we were quite able to be able to speak arabic again. However, their arabic is much more similar to Fusha, which made my day. The other problem is that there is only one taxi company at the border and he charged us 15 dinars to the hostel. Since the dollar is so weak, it converts from about 1.3 dollars to 1 dinar, the trip turned out to be quite expensive.
We did get to see the world's tallest flagpole in Akaba. It was really huge and I was really excited to finally see it. I wasn't so excited about out living conditions in the hostel there. Basically there were none. We lived in a hut, with bamboo walls that didn't keep out the sun or the bugs. We didn't have a flap on the door and the showers were in the same room as the toilets. This was kind of gross and it meant you couldn't have any toilet paper in the bathroom lest it get soaked too. This was a crazy experience.
So we checked in and stayed down on the beach of the Red Sea until the second group of our friends showed up. We then went to get some food and finally finished unpacking.
Okay, I am really tired right now, and before the sentences stop making sense I am going to get the bed.
Leaving Egypt was not a problem at all. The bus let us off at the Taba bus stop which was about a 10 minute walk from the Israel border. It was about 6:00 or 7:00 in the morning. Since we were not sure about how crowded the bus would be on the way back we decided to play it safe rather than sorry and buy the return bus tickets as soon we got there. Only one other group of travelers did this. Some didn't do it because they weren't sure when they coming back and we don't know why others didn't do it. We felt like were either really ahead of the game or missing a rather important piece of information. Anyways, we walked to the Egyptian border filled out the paper-work and were good to go. We had to pass through some metal detectors but in Egypt these mean nothing if we are foreign looking. I have stopped even emptying my pockets of medal to try and not set off the alarm. So our exit visas were stamped and we left the country for the nominal fee of two pounds. It pays to the have the visa.
The security situation on the other side of the border was a completely different story. Luckily we had heard all of stories about the super-secure nature of Israeli society and were ready for the change of pace. First of all, being foreign was not a free pass. They stopped us and made us go through the same metal detectors as everybody else. Second, if you weren't white, you were singled out. Luckily, since it was so early in the morning the only people passing through were students. So a lot of the Arab, or Black or Brown kids got the benefit of being associated with the white students. However, they were still given more questioning and eventually ended up taking much longer to get through the security. The group ahead of me, had one kid an American who was born in Africa who had a very Muslim name. He was pulled aside early on. The one Muslim who was traveling with us, who is one of the most innocent sounding and looking girls I have ever seen got held for 3 hours at the border. They asked her questions about everything from her parents to her religion. Apparently they were running back-ground checks while they kept her waiting. The other story is that they just wanted to mess with her. Us white folk got through in about 15 minutes. Luckily the border station is right on the Red Sea and waiting around there wasn't the worst thing in the world, at least for us.
While were waiting for our friend to get through, Ryan and I went exploring outside of the border gate. We actually went looking for Megan, but couldn't find her. We did find a rather large recycling bin though, which through us both for a loop. Not being able to find Megan was bit disconcerting, and goes to show the necessity of having designated meeting zones and following the three most important rules of of wilderness travel. We did eventually find her, exactly where she said she was going to be, but still not in plain view. Anyways, we loaded up into a white Mercedes mini-bus and for 50 shekkals were on our way to the Jordanian Border. During this time we dared not speak in any Arabic, because although it is an official language we didn't want to say anything that might set the security state on us. And a security state it is. Rather than the black wool clothed, AK-47 wielding, sitting down, tattered Egyptian security, many of the Israeli security forces wore casual clothes including Crocs, khaki's and polo shirts. However, there was one striking different, these guys also held black and yellow M-16's, and stood with the gun around their shoulders, finger running along side the edge of the trigger box. These guys looked serious.
We didn't stop in Israel on our first trip. We just saw the development from the windows of the car and it looked amazing. However, when we did get to Jordan we were quite able to be able to speak arabic again. However, their arabic is much more similar to Fusha, which made my day. The other problem is that there is only one taxi company at the border and he charged us 15 dinars to the hostel. Since the dollar is so weak, it converts from about 1.3 dollars to 1 dinar, the trip turned out to be quite expensive.
We did get to see the world's tallest flagpole in Akaba. It was really huge and I was really excited to finally see it. I wasn't so excited about out living conditions in the hostel there. Basically there were none. We lived in a hut, with bamboo walls that didn't keep out the sun or the bugs. We didn't have a flap on the door and the showers were in the same room as the toilets. This was kind of gross and it meant you couldn't have any toilet paper in the bathroom lest it get soaked too. This was a crazy experience.
So we checked in and stayed down on the beach of the Red Sea until the second group of our friends showed up. We then went to get some food and finally finished unpacking.
Okay, I am really tired right now, and before the sentences stop making sense I am going to get the bed.
Day 60
Wednesday March 19th,
Well today we head off to the Jordan. As I do not consider the Sinai Peninsula Asia, as soon as I cross into Israel, I will take my first steps on the Asian continent. I guess that's something to note as being a milestone in life. Does it really change who I am or make me all that better of a person. I don't know. I don't feel all that different, but they say traveling changes you. I guess as in with most things in life, we shall see.
I also got back my paper and test in Art and Architecture and took my speaking colloquial. Everything went pretty well. Although I still feel terrible at my language skills, maybe I am improving ever so slowing. I really would like to be proficient in it. Maybe not fluent, but at least proficient. Can I least get that.
The bus ride in the evening was once again a crazy experience. This time the bus was completely full of Americans, probably 80%. Most of them are going to Israel or the beach for the extended weekend. It was nice travelling with so many people because, well, there is safety in numbers. However, despite the lack of Egyptians the bus driver still played the music way to loud and had the terrible video going. Even though I learned from last time and wore glasses I still wasn't able to sleep much. But you can't really except to walk away from a vacation and actually be rested. What kind of vacation would that be?
Well today we head off to the Jordan. As I do not consider the Sinai Peninsula Asia, as soon as I cross into Israel, I will take my first steps on the Asian continent. I guess that's something to note as being a milestone in life. Does it really change who I am or make me all that better of a person. I don't know. I don't feel all that different, but they say traveling changes you. I guess as in with most things in life, we shall see.
I also got back my paper and test in Art and Architecture and took my speaking colloquial. Everything went pretty well. Although I still feel terrible at my language skills, maybe I am improving ever so slowing. I really would like to be proficient in it. Maybe not fluent, but at least proficient. Can I least get that.
The bus ride in the evening was once again a crazy experience. This time the bus was completely full of Americans, probably 80%. Most of them are going to Israel or the beach for the extended weekend. It was nice travelling with so many people because, well, there is safety in numbers. However, despite the lack of Egyptians the bus driver still played the music way to loud and had the terrible video going. Even though I learned from last time and wore glasses I still wasn't able to sleep much. But you can't really except to walk away from a vacation and actually be rested. What kind of vacation would that be?
Day 59
Tuesday, March 18th
Tonight I got to to teach two English classes for better world. One of the teachers for the 400 level didn't show up, so in addition to my 200 level intermediate class I got to teach this advanced class English. Now normally I teach class with John, who really knows his Grammar and in many cases is the better teacher of the two of us. He understands what he is teaching and I think feels more comfortable in the teaching role. However, for this class John and the other teachers didn't want to stick around, but as I couldn't just leave these kids hanging I stepped up to the plate. Let me tell you, it was so much fun.
They said they wanted to know slang. Well I gave them slang and I gave them slang that only Americans would understand. But since I had no pre-planned lesson or idea of what they should be learning it was just me talking in stream-of-consciousness about whatever came into my mind. I explained to these kids words like Hood, Ballin', that's whack, kicks, and C.R.E.A.M. This last one got me off onto tangents about the state of equality in America, and the idea of the American dream. Thus, I started talking about Obama, and wrote Margret Mead's group on the wall about a small-group of people. I talked about how dreams are the only thing that make life worth living. They basically got an hour and a half of me trying to explain the core tenants of America and writing any slang I used on the board as I went. It was incredible. Even though I had no idea what I was doing, I was just talking and they were taking it all in. My only hope is that it was able to inspire them or that some of the lingo they might be able to use some day.
Tonight I got to to teach two English classes for better world. One of the teachers for the 400 level didn't show up, so in addition to my 200 level intermediate class I got to teach this advanced class English. Now normally I teach class with John, who really knows his Grammar and in many cases is the better teacher of the two of us. He understands what he is teaching and I think feels more comfortable in the teaching role. However, for this class John and the other teachers didn't want to stick around, but as I couldn't just leave these kids hanging I stepped up to the plate. Let me tell you, it was so much fun.
They said they wanted to know slang. Well I gave them slang and I gave them slang that only Americans would understand. But since I had no pre-planned lesson or idea of what they should be learning it was just me talking in stream-of-consciousness about whatever came into my mind. I explained to these kids words like Hood, Ballin', that's whack, kicks, and C.R.E.A.M. This last one got me off onto tangents about the state of equality in America, and the idea of the American dream. Thus, I started talking about Obama, and wrote Margret Mead's group on the wall about a small-group of people. I talked about how dreams are the only thing that make life worth living. They basically got an hour and a half of me trying to explain the core tenants of America and writing any slang I used on the board as I went. It was incredible. Even though I had no idea what I was doing, I was just talking and they were taking it all in. My only hope is that it was able to inspire them or that some of the lingo they might be able to use some day.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Day 58
March 17th,
Today was a pretty simple day. Woke up, went to class, went to another class, had class canceled and went to colloquial where I didn't have to give my presentation. It was quite a happy class day, now that I look back at it.
As for the state of the world, its beginning to take its toll on me. Even though I have all this free time now, I still can't get around to doing things that I need to. Like maintaining correspondence. Granted I am not being a great time manager but i think there is something more happening here than that. I think the culture of Cairo, the go with the flow, don't get stressed out, just enjoy things as they go. Its a kind of rational ignorance, or rational laziness if you will. I can't change the world so why not enjoy it.
This new mentality of mine is bullshit and I have got to overcome it.
Today was a pretty simple day. Woke up, went to class, went to another class, had class canceled and went to colloquial where I didn't have to give my presentation. It was quite a happy class day, now that I look back at it.
As for the state of the world, its beginning to take its toll on me. Even though I have all this free time now, I still can't get around to doing things that I need to. Like maintaining correspondence. Granted I am not being a great time manager but i think there is something more happening here than that. I think the culture of Cairo, the go with the flow, don't get stressed out, just enjoy things as they go. Its a kind of rational ignorance, or rational laziness if you will. I can't change the world so why not enjoy it.
This new mentality of mine is bullshit and I have got to overcome it.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Day 57
March 16th
It occurred to me, just right now actually, that America really gets under my skin; grinds my gears, busts my birches, if you will. America is allegedly one of the richest countries in the world. They have the second highest average income and the largest economy by far. We are supposedly this great nation, a country whose freedom and liberty make it a country set upon a hill. Yet are we really a country set upon a hill?
No.
Despite all this money, all these natural resources, all this opportunity we still let our people live in poverty, we still let genocide rage in Africa, and are the number one contributer to what might just end life "as we know it" on earth: climate change. We lack the audacity and the determination to take on these struggles and instead only make excuses. Sure these problems are complex, very complex. But they are not intractable by any means. There are solutions to climate change, there are solutions to the education system, there are solutions these problems, but they just require monumental efforts on the parts of the United States. Okay, I shouldn't oversimplify these issues by saying if we just try harder we can solve all the worlds problems. There are a lot of people out there putting all their body and soul into these problems and I don't want to say that the only problem is a lack of caring. This is indeed far from the truth. But we do need to stop making excuses for not dealing with these problems.
Primarily, the Global climate change problem. I have remarked earlier that the Kyoto Accord would do nothing to remedy the global warming problem because it doesn't take into account the developing world. However, how do we expect the developing world to get behind the green movement when the country with the largest economy in the world doesn't want to take a stance because of the economy of America is too fragile. Too Fragile, I ask, come to Egypt and I will show you fragile. Okay, maybe I not mad at America per se, but I am mad at the Bush administration. Seriously, worst president ever in my mind. Okay, maybe not the worst, he does have some redeeming qualities but wow did he screw up big on a number of things. No matter what happens in 2008, at least he will be gone.
It occurred to me, just right now actually, that America really gets under my skin; grinds my gears, busts my birches, if you will. America is allegedly one of the richest countries in the world. They have the second highest average income and the largest economy by far. We are supposedly this great nation, a country whose freedom and liberty make it a country set upon a hill. Yet are we really a country set upon a hill?
No.
Despite all this money, all these natural resources, all this opportunity we still let our people live in poverty, we still let genocide rage in Africa, and are the number one contributer to what might just end life "as we know it" on earth: climate change. We lack the audacity and the determination to take on these struggles and instead only make excuses. Sure these problems are complex, very complex. But they are not intractable by any means. There are solutions to climate change, there are solutions to the education system, there are solutions these problems, but they just require monumental efforts on the parts of the United States. Okay, I shouldn't oversimplify these issues by saying if we just try harder we can solve all the worlds problems. There are a lot of people out there putting all their body and soul into these problems and I don't want to say that the only problem is a lack of caring. This is indeed far from the truth. But we do need to stop making excuses for not dealing with these problems.
Primarily, the Global climate change problem. I have remarked earlier that the Kyoto Accord would do nothing to remedy the global warming problem because it doesn't take into account the developing world. However, how do we expect the developing world to get behind the green movement when the country with the largest economy in the world doesn't want to take a stance because of the economy of America is too fragile. Too Fragile, I ask, come to Egypt and I will show you fragile. Okay, maybe I not mad at America per se, but I am mad at the Bush administration. Seriously, worst president ever in my mind. Okay, maybe not the worst, he does have some redeeming qualities but wow did he screw up big on a number of things. No matter what happens in 2008, at least he will be gone.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Day 56
March 15th,
Today we went on a field-trip with my Islamic Art and Architecture class to the Nilometer and Ibn Tulun's Mosque. Since we were with a class we got to take a bus to both of these sites and not have to pay for entrance, which nicely removed the stress of trying to get around and what not. The class is supposed to have 40 kids, but only about 20 of them showed up for the field-trip, so we had a nice small group with a well-educated professor who was the best tour guide I have had in this country.
The first place we visited was the nilometer. This is the oldest Islamic monument in Cairo, built in 861 by the Abbasid's in order to measure the height of the Nile. You see, if the Nile was above 19 cubits high, then there was enough water to release the dams and flood the fields. This meant the city wouldn't strave and they could then pay taxes on this agriculture to the Abbasids. So basically knowing if the water level was going to over 19 cubits or not was very important to the Egyptian society and thus this momument was very important to egypt. We also got to wonder around the palace grounds that the monument is located on. It was fun imagining what the palace must have looked like in the 9th century. The Nile would have been wider, less polluted and less overcrowded. It might have actually been nice to live there.
The second place we visited was Ibn Tulun's mosque built sometime around 870 by Ibn Tulun. The Mosque resembled the Abbasid architecture as it had the exterior staircase on the mosque and was just freaking huge. Even stranger, it has a really freaking big ablutions fountain. Not quite sure why it was so big, but when it was reconstructed they definitely built it big. We got to wonder around the mosque and analyze all the artwork and what not. Apparently in this early form of architecture the arabic script lacks letters. This makes reading the inscriptions extremely difficult to decipher. Even the Egyptian students struggled to read all of it. Afterwards I was so hungry that I ate a ton, sleept a bunch and played my game I just downloaded. It's called World inConflict, and its pretty addicting. I should probably be doing something more productive with my time, but its Egypt, its a country where its hard to stress about about things... and what's less stressful then defending America against a bunch of commies who decided to take over Seattle. Poor choice on their part.
Today we went on a field-trip with my Islamic Art and Architecture class to the Nilometer and Ibn Tulun's Mosque. Since we were with a class we got to take a bus to both of these sites and not have to pay for entrance, which nicely removed the stress of trying to get around and what not. The class is supposed to have 40 kids, but only about 20 of them showed up for the field-trip, so we had a nice small group with a well-educated professor who was the best tour guide I have had in this country.
The first place we visited was the nilometer. This is the oldest Islamic monument in Cairo, built in 861 by the Abbasid's in order to measure the height of the Nile. You see, if the Nile was above 19 cubits high, then there was enough water to release the dams and flood the fields. This meant the city wouldn't strave and they could then pay taxes on this agriculture to the Abbasids. So basically knowing if the water level was going to over 19 cubits or not was very important to the Egyptian society and thus this momument was very important to egypt. We also got to wonder around the palace grounds that the monument is located on. It was fun imagining what the palace must have looked like in the 9th century. The Nile would have been wider, less polluted and less overcrowded. It might have actually been nice to live there.
The second place we visited was Ibn Tulun's mosque built sometime around 870 by Ibn Tulun. The Mosque resembled the Abbasid architecture as it had the exterior staircase on the mosque and was just freaking huge. Even stranger, it has a really freaking big ablutions fountain. Not quite sure why it was so big, but when it was reconstructed they definitely built it big. We got to wonder around the mosque and analyze all the artwork and what not. Apparently in this early form of architecture the arabic script lacks letters. This makes reading the inscriptions extremely difficult to decipher. Even the Egyptian students struggled to read all of it. Afterwards I was so hungry that I ate a ton, sleept a bunch and played my game I just downloaded. It's called World inConflict, and its pretty addicting. I should probably be doing something more productive with my time, but its Egypt, its a country where its hard to stress about about things... and what's less stressful then defending America against a bunch of commies who decided to take over Seattle. Poor choice on their part.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Day 55
March 14
Last night we got to eat dinner at the house of a Navy Commander in Egypt. My roommate's mom met a friend at the commissary in D.C. who knew about this family who was living in Egypt. So John got in contact with them and they invited us over for dinner last night. It was absolutely incredible. Not only was the couple incredibly generous, funny, and kind, but also their house was like Little America in Egypt. It was absolutely incredible.
First of all, they had the Armed Forces Network. This means they got ESPN. They also had American food and drink. It was basically like heaven. I got to drink Coors Light and St. Pauli's Girl, eat Lasagna and watch basketball. I was so happy.
What's more, they had a Wii. After dinner we ended up playing Wii Sports and other games. It was so much fun. The couple was so nice they even let me spend the night. Eventually they went to bed, but I stayed up playing guitar hero and watching the Cleveland Cavaliers play the Washington Wizards. When I woke up, I got to eat more lasagna and drink Ovaltine. It was incredible. They were the nicest people and it really made me want to work abroad for the US.
Last night we got to eat dinner at the house of a Navy Commander in Egypt. My roommate's mom met a friend at the commissary in D.C. who knew about this family who was living in Egypt. So John got in contact with them and they invited us over for dinner last night. It was absolutely incredible. Not only was the couple incredibly generous, funny, and kind, but also their house was like Little America in Egypt. It was absolutely incredible.
First of all, they had the Armed Forces Network. This means they got ESPN. They also had American food and drink. It was basically like heaven. I got to drink Coors Light and St. Pauli's Girl, eat Lasagna and watch basketball. I was so happy.
What's more, they had a Wii. After dinner we ended up playing Wii Sports and other games. It was so much fun. The couple was so nice they even let me spend the night. Eventually they went to bed, but I stayed up playing guitar hero and watching the Cleveland Cavaliers play the Washington Wizards. When I woke up, I got to eat more lasagna and drink Ovaltine. It was incredible. They were the nicest people and it really made me want to work abroad for the US.
Day 54
March 13
The price of food is rising across Egypt. I generally go to this hole-in-the-wall take away restaurant for Tameea for Lunch. I go there because it is 50 piasters for one sandwich. This week they raised the prices to 60 piasters. Although this means nothing to me, other then the math becoming harder to calculate and change harder to break. However, for the rest of people who buy their food her this means that if they buy 2 sandwiches a day for lunch they are paying an extra 4 pounds every month. Although this doesn't seem like much, when you are making less than 300 pounds a month everything adds up. On Wednesday, I found out that the price of my other lunch destination, Koshri-Tahrir, or K-tah, as we like to call it, had its 3 pound meal go up to 4 pounds. These are just small indications of a larger world-wide problem.
You can look at the New York Times or Google News to see the articles about the rising prices of wheat world wide. It has special ramifications for Egypt who is one of the largest importers of wheat in the world. It also has one of the largest government subsidy programs to keep the food prices low for the millions of Egyptian poor. The government allegedly spends 1.7 billion dollars on the subsidies on this program. Because many working Egyptians make less than 300 pounds a month this subsidy is critical for meeting their basic needs. However, as the price of wheat for the bread keeps rising, the government costs continue to increase. When the price of wheat increases, it is felt across the entire spectrum of Egyptian life. If this prices continue to increase, we will either see the effects of inflation or the effects of mass-starvation. Either way, the future is not good for Egyptians and developing countries throughout the world.
Now for why the price of wheat and other commodities is increasing. As far as I can tell, the increasing prices is simply due to a shift in the demand curve. Since there are more and more people in the developing countries clamoring for more and more food and with the supply not increasing at the same rate, the prices increases. In my opinion, the demand for food may soon become one of the world's biggest challenges. To increase the supply of food you can either create more arable land or make the land currently farmed more productive. The former, is not exactly a solution as there simply isn't a lot of land around. Unless we want to stop cutting down the rain forest or other precious ecological areas. The former is where the solution must lie and I don't know enough to speak to the possibilities of this.
However, there is also the problem of climate change and what kind of effects this will have on the yield and size of farmland. Higher temperatures require more water to irrigate and generally cause lower levels of production. If the climate does change we could also lose a lot of the farmland we have now. These two effects will dramatically increase the price of food.
Seeing this rising price of food makes me, first, hate ethanol even more. How can America morally believe that Ethanol, which really isn't all that good of an alternative to oil, other than the fact that its made in America, be considered a feasible renewable energy. The use of ethanol, is morally reprehensible in a world where there actually isn't enough food to around any more. Second, I am glad to know that my work and summer work will actually be contributing to the research and science that is on the very cutting edge of the problems that will face the world. Water and Food. Its what the wars of the future will be fought about. Crazy.
The price of food is rising across Egypt. I generally go to this hole-in-the-wall take away restaurant for Tameea for Lunch. I go there because it is 50 piasters for one sandwich. This week they raised the prices to 60 piasters. Although this means nothing to me, other then the math becoming harder to calculate and change harder to break. However, for the rest of people who buy their food her this means that if they buy 2 sandwiches a day for lunch they are paying an extra 4 pounds every month. Although this doesn't seem like much, when you are making less than 300 pounds a month everything adds up. On Wednesday, I found out that the price of my other lunch destination, Koshri-Tahrir, or K-tah, as we like to call it, had its 3 pound meal go up to 4 pounds. These are just small indications of a larger world-wide problem.
You can look at the New York Times or Google News to see the articles about the rising prices of wheat world wide. It has special ramifications for Egypt who is one of the largest importers of wheat in the world. It also has one of the largest government subsidy programs to keep the food prices low for the millions of Egyptian poor. The government allegedly spends 1.7 billion dollars on the subsidies on this program. Because many working Egyptians make less than 300 pounds a month this subsidy is critical for meeting their basic needs. However, as the price of wheat for the bread keeps rising, the government costs continue to increase. When the price of wheat increases, it is felt across the entire spectrum of Egyptian life. If this prices continue to increase, we will either see the effects of inflation or the effects of mass-starvation. Either way, the future is not good for Egyptians and developing countries throughout the world.
Now for why the price of wheat and other commodities is increasing. As far as I can tell, the increasing prices is simply due to a shift in the demand curve. Since there are more and more people in the developing countries clamoring for more and more food and with the supply not increasing at the same rate, the prices increases. In my opinion, the demand for food may soon become one of the world's biggest challenges. To increase the supply of food you can either create more arable land or make the land currently farmed more productive. The former, is not exactly a solution as there simply isn't a lot of land around. Unless we want to stop cutting down the rain forest or other precious ecological areas. The former is where the solution must lie and I don't know enough to speak to the possibilities of this.
However, there is also the problem of climate change and what kind of effects this will have on the yield and size of farmland. Higher temperatures require more water to irrigate and generally cause lower levels of production. If the climate does change we could also lose a lot of the farmland we have now. These two effects will dramatically increase the price of food.
Seeing this rising price of food makes me, first, hate ethanol even more. How can America morally believe that Ethanol, which really isn't all that good of an alternative to oil, other than the fact that its made in America, be considered a feasible renewable energy. The use of ethanol, is morally reprehensible in a world where there actually isn't enough food to around any more. Second, I am glad to know that my work and summer work will actually be contributing to the research and science that is on the very cutting edge of the problems that will face the world. Water and Food. Its what the wars of the future will be fought about. Crazy.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Day 53
March 12th,
Okay I realize that this blog is kind of becoming repetitive and more of a journal than an actual blog. Anyone hoping to actually find out about Cairo is probably getting bored by this blog. There are two reasons for this. I am in my routines and therefore don't really see anything new. Second, I have been here for 53 days and most things that I do see I have talked about already. I'll try and something interesting to write about in the future. Yes, this post was a total cop-out, but I am tired after doing 5 hours of Arabic homework, and I want to go to bed.
Okay I realize that this blog is kind of becoming repetitive and more of a journal than an actual blog. Anyone hoping to actually find out about Cairo is probably getting bored by this blog. There are two reasons for this. I am in my routines and therefore don't really see anything new. Second, I have been here for 53 days and most things that I do see I have talked about already. I'll try and something interesting to write about in the future. Yes, this post was a total cop-out, but I am tired after doing 5 hours of Arabic homework, and I want to go to bed.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Day 52
March 11th,
Since I finished my tests and grant, I have no idea what to do with my time. My arm still hurts from the injury sustained on Sunday in boxing, so I decided to not go today. I'll have to get back into that routine after I get healthier. Also since the DDC was closed, I didn't have anything to do for my 5 hour break. It was a rather odd experience, not really having anything to do, but still being in school. Kind of like High School. Man, sometimes I miss high school.
I started reading the one book they have in the AUC library about Water Wars. Its a liberal rag calling the World Bank a terrorist organization. Her arguments are unsubstantiated and her emotional and personal story that she intertwines through her thesis detract from the point of the book. I was quite disappointed by the book and the lack of resources at the AUC Library, which is considered the best library in the Middle-East. I think this is just one sign of what is wrong with this country, or what's great about America. We just have higher standards for almost everything.
They also only have two dryers for the dorms. This is really annoying and a complete hassle. There are more washers than dryers, what does that say about the planning performed by this place. Oh well.
Since I finished my tests and grant, I have no idea what to do with my time. My arm still hurts from the injury sustained on Sunday in boxing, so I decided to not go today. I'll have to get back into that routine after I get healthier. Also since the DDC was closed, I didn't have anything to do for my 5 hour break. It was a rather odd experience, not really having anything to do, but still being in school. Kind of like High School. Man, sometimes I miss high school.
I started reading the one book they have in the AUC library about Water Wars. Its a liberal rag calling the World Bank a terrorist organization. Her arguments are unsubstantiated and her emotional and personal story that she intertwines through her thesis detract from the point of the book. I was quite disappointed by the book and the lack of resources at the AUC Library, which is considered the best library in the Middle-East. I think this is just one sign of what is wrong with this country, or what's great about America. We just have higher standards for almost everything.
They also only have two dryers for the dorms. This is really annoying and a complete hassle. There are more washers than dryers, what does that say about the planning performed by this place. Oh well.
Day 51
March 10th.
Its my birthday today. I must say it was a pretty good birthday in hindsight. I don't really know how I did on the two tests, but the important thing is that they are done. I also finished my grant. So I don't really know what to do with all my time now that all those things are out of the way. The day started off last night after Midnight when JP gave him his present of Monopoly: US Marines, in arabic. Its a pretty crazy looking game and I look forward to playing it. My roommate got me the Alchemist, which apparently is one of those books which everyone should read.
In my Arabic class, after the test, the class sang me happy birthday (in arabic) and they made me a doughnut "cake." It was pretty sweet, complete with a blue crayon candle.
I think one of my favorite parts of my birthday was having Holly wish me happy birthday every time she talked to me. It was pretty funny.
We celebrated my birthday at the Grand Hyatt in the revolving restaurant. This place was the definition of ritzy. They had people playing baby grand piano's in the lobby and in the lounge. There were about 12 of us total who went to the Restaurant. Let just say the price range made it so we didn't order actual food. I did however get a "Zombie" drink. I asked if they wanted to see my I.D., they didn't. I was kind of disappointed by this. I guess I won't really realize the positives of this age until I get back into the states. I think there are a bunch of things I can do now. I am not quite sure what, but I think I am fully an adult now. I probably should start acting like one. However, I do know that the 21st birthday, means just 4 more years until the big 25. Then I get to run for Congress. Pretty pumped about that.
Its my birthday today. I must say it was a pretty good birthday in hindsight. I don't really know how I did on the two tests, but the important thing is that they are done. I also finished my grant. So I don't really know what to do with all my time now that all those things are out of the way. The day started off last night after Midnight when JP gave him his present of Monopoly: US Marines, in arabic. Its a pretty crazy looking game and I look forward to playing it. My roommate got me the Alchemist, which apparently is one of those books which everyone should read.
In my Arabic class, after the test, the class sang me happy birthday (in arabic) and they made me a doughnut "cake." It was pretty sweet, complete with a blue crayon candle.
I think one of my favorite parts of my birthday was having Holly wish me happy birthday every time she talked to me. It was pretty funny.
We celebrated my birthday at the Grand Hyatt in the revolving restaurant. This place was the definition of ritzy. They had people playing baby grand piano's in the lobby and in the lounge. There were about 12 of us total who went to the Restaurant. Let just say the price range made it so we didn't order actual food. I did however get a "Zombie" drink. I asked if they wanted to see my I.D., they didn't. I was kind of disappointed by this. I guess I won't really realize the positives of this age until I get back into the states. I think there are a bunch of things I can do now. I am not quite sure what, but I think I am fully an adult now. I probably should start acting like one. However, I do know that the 21st birthday, means just 4 more years until the big 25. Then I get to run for Congress. Pretty pumped about that.
Day 50
March 9th,
It's the day before my birthday. I have two tests tomorrow, one in Fusha and the other in my Islamic art and architecture class. I am not really worried about the Fusha test, but I don't have any clue about the Art test. I don't think i have taken an Art test since the tests we took in AP European history.
Well this will be my last day as underage. I have no idea what the future holds for me, but I feel like its almost like a personal new year. I don't know why exactly, but I feel that this day I can renew my life or take it in a new direction or do whatever I want with it. I don't know why this is different from any other day, but for some reason it is for me.
It's the day before my birthday. I have two tests tomorrow, one in Fusha and the other in my Islamic art and architecture class. I am not really worried about the Fusha test, but I don't have any clue about the Art test. I don't think i have taken an Art test since the tests we took in AP European history.
Well this will be my last day as underage. I have no idea what the future holds for me, but I feel like its almost like a personal new year. I don't know why exactly, but I feel that this day I can renew my life or take it in a new direction or do whatever I want with it. I don't know why this is different from any other day, but for some reason it is for me.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Day 49
March 8th
Saturday was spent traveling back from Sharm el-sheikh. There were Egyptian women on this bus. All three of them, but at least I know they can travel on the bus. I spent most of my time on the bus sleeping and trying to read. The Bus was very bouncy and reading was rather difficult. Looking out the window onto the Sinai made you realize just how awful man has been to this earth. The road between Cairo and Sharm, a road with very little traffic and even less homes, was covered in trash. It wasn't as bad as Cairo, but it definitely had a noticeable littering problem. It was awfully disappointing. How do you teach people about how their actions effect one-another? The rest of the day was spent eating, checking the world to make sure its still intact, and working on my grant. I think i finally got it done.
Okay I am going to bed.
Saturday was spent traveling back from Sharm el-sheikh. There were Egyptian women on this bus. All three of them, but at least I know they can travel on the bus. I spent most of my time on the bus sleeping and trying to read. The Bus was very bouncy and reading was rather difficult. Looking out the window onto the Sinai made you realize just how awful man has been to this earth. The road between Cairo and Sharm, a road with very little traffic and even less homes, was covered in trash. It wasn't as bad as Cairo, but it definitely had a noticeable littering problem. It was awfully disappointing. How do you teach people about how their actions effect one-another? The rest of the day was spent eating, checking the world to make sure its still intact, and working on my grant. I think i finally got it done.
Okay I am going to bed.
Day 48
March 7th
Sharm- el -sheikh. We finally arrived after leaving Cairo at 10:45 PM at night and taking a 6 and half bus ride across the Sinai Peninsula. I have been wondering all day in Sinai is Asia or still Africa. If it is Asia, I have made it to my third continent. However, I have a feeling that it doesn't really count as Asia. Either way, the experience in itself was amazing, regardless if I went to Asia or not.
First the bus-ride. The girls in our group were the only girls on the bus. We were also the only foreigners. So either Egyptian women don't travel, or just don't travel at night. None the less it was odd to be on a bus full of Egyptian men. I shouldn't say full, because the bus we took was 80 pounds, pretty expensive for most Egyptians. Therefore it was really only the wealthy Egyptians who were traveling on the bus with us. Also, Egyptians don't sleep. So in order to entertain all the Egyptians the bus played Egyptian Video and music. The Video was about Omar and Selima, and it looked like a Teen movie. I couldn't help that thinking the smooth-talking, clash- clown, wealthy, athletic Omar was the ideal that Egyptian men looked up too. I hope this is not the case because lets just say there are better role models out there.
When we finally up in Sharm, it was 5:00 AM. Our rooms weren't ready for us to check in. So we made the best of our time and went to the beach. The beach was really just a sandy cliff, and it was amazing. We were elevated about 30 feet off the water, where there was a coral reef. The water was a beautiful light blue and we could see tons of colorful fish hanging out. We went down the path and jumped in. The Red Sea is salty. Very Salty. Even if you get just a little water in your mouth, its disgusting. You have to like clench your mouth shut. After that, I wandered back to the beach area and feel asleep for the rest of the morning. We would go swimming again and John and I also rented snorkeling equipment. It was a good purchase. Even though we didn't stay out that long being able to see underwater was a pretty magical experience.
When we finally got to check in at around 12:00, they had free lunch. I love free food. It was amazing. The workers at the hotel, the Sol y mar, were also amazed that we could speak broken Arabic. They were like noticeably thrilled and were happy to help us. I think that's just an indication how little the rest of the tourists knew. The other tourists were European. They brought with them their European dress codes. I was actually taken aback by the fashion I saw. Many of these fashions wouldn't cut it in America, much less in Egypt. But I guess the Egyptians didn't care here. I was trying to understand why I was bugged so much by the lack of decency, and it wasn't the lack of caring by the Europeans for Egyptian customs. If I was in Europe and saw the fashion I would be equally taken aback. I first thought that the women weren't respecting their own bodies, but the guys also didn't wear that much either. Its just pretty much the exact opposite of the hijab. If I don't judge the Egyptians, then I won't judge the Europeans.
We spent some more time on the beach, got free dinner and then hit the downtown. The downtown was like Europe transplanted. The girls were basically wearing the same stuff they did on the beach. It was kind of culturally shocking. That being said it was really nice and I enjoyed walked around the streets. It was expensive for Egyptians standards and I don't think I would want to stay there for more than a week. I feel I would run out of things to do. I mean living the life of luxury is nice, but its also pulling a blindfold over your eyes.
Sharm- el -sheikh. We finally arrived after leaving Cairo at 10:45 PM at night and taking a 6 and half bus ride across the Sinai Peninsula. I have been wondering all day in Sinai is Asia or still Africa. If it is Asia, I have made it to my third continent. However, I have a feeling that it doesn't really count as Asia. Either way, the experience in itself was amazing, regardless if I went to Asia or not.
First the bus-ride. The girls in our group were the only girls on the bus. We were also the only foreigners. So either Egyptian women don't travel, or just don't travel at night. None the less it was odd to be on a bus full of Egyptian men. I shouldn't say full, because the bus we took was 80 pounds, pretty expensive for most Egyptians. Therefore it was really only the wealthy Egyptians who were traveling on the bus with us. Also, Egyptians don't sleep. So in order to entertain all the Egyptians the bus played Egyptian Video and music. The Video was about Omar and Selima, and it looked like a Teen movie. I couldn't help that thinking the smooth-talking, clash- clown, wealthy, athletic Omar was the ideal that Egyptian men looked up too. I hope this is not the case because lets just say there are better role models out there.
When we finally up in Sharm, it was 5:00 AM. Our rooms weren't ready for us to check in. So we made the best of our time and went to the beach. The beach was really just a sandy cliff, and it was amazing. We were elevated about 30 feet off the water, where there was a coral reef. The water was a beautiful light blue and we could see tons of colorful fish hanging out. We went down the path and jumped in. The Red Sea is salty. Very Salty. Even if you get just a little water in your mouth, its disgusting. You have to like clench your mouth shut. After that, I wandered back to the beach area and feel asleep for the rest of the morning. We would go swimming again and John and I also rented snorkeling equipment. It was a good purchase. Even though we didn't stay out that long being able to see underwater was a pretty magical experience.
When we finally got to check in at around 12:00, they had free lunch. I love free food. It was amazing. The workers at the hotel, the Sol y mar, were also amazed that we could speak broken Arabic. They were like noticeably thrilled and were happy to help us. I think that's just an indication how little the rest of the tourists knew. The other tourists were European. They brought with them their European dress codes. I was actually taken aback by the fashion I saw. Many of these fashions wouldn't cut it in America, much less in Egypt. But I guess the Egyptians didn't care here. I was trying to understand why I was bugged so much by the lack of decency, and it wasn't the lack of caring by the Europeans for Egyptian customs. If I was in Europe and saw the fashion I would be equally taken aback. I first thought that the women weren't respecting their own bodies, but the guys also didn't wear that much either. Its just pretty much the exact opposite of the hijab. If I don't judge the Egyptians, then I won't judge the Europeans.
We spent some more time on the beach, got free dinner and then hit the downtown. The downtown was like Europe transplanted. The girls were basically wearing the same stuff they did on the beach. It was kind of culturally shocking. That being said it was really nice and I enjoyed walked around the streets. It was expensive for Egyptians standards and I don't think I would want to stay there for more than a week. I feel I would run out of things to do. I mean living the life of luxury is nice, but its also pulling a blindfold over your eyes.
Day 47
March 6th
Thursday...
Thank God. It means the end of a week full of stress and hardship. It also means the start of the weekend. We are going to Sharm el Sheikh, a Sinai resort town on the Red Sea. I hear that's its really touristy, but that its gorgeous. It should be an experience.
Thursday also means that I get to go to the Desert Development Center. Currently I am applying for the UROP grants for the summer. I feel this application has been immensely beneficial to lighting the path of my future.
You see, before at the DDC, I was doing research on whether or not solar power could be used to power development in the third world, where the simple lack of power inhibits any hope for moving forward. However, since I asked Dan Lindley to be my adviser, I was forced to make make the project more related to security studies. I finally came up with the solution. I would analyze whether or not solar power can prevent the cause of resource wars. This brings together my current to tracks of interest. The first, the imperative need of this planet to address the coming environmental catastrophe. This is more than just global warming, which in itself could change the entire face of this world, this is about the soaring price of grain and corn as the demand increases world-wide, this is about the pollution in the Nile Delta that will reduce the ability to produce enough food. It also ties in my interest to stop one of the world's other great evil: war. Man can be so inhumane to man in so many ways, especially through war. This cannot be a way to solve problems in the future and we need to work to reduce the chances that it will ever happen. So my research will determine if solar power can allow these developing oasis communities to produce more food and water and therefore help to stave off the impending doom.
Thursday...
Thank God. It means the end of a week full of stress and hardship. It also means the start of the weekend. We are going to Sharm el Sheikh, a Sinai resort town on the Red Sea. I hear that's its really touristy, but that its gorgeous. It should be an experience.
Thursday also means that I get to go to the Desert Development Center. Currently I am applying for the UROP grants for the summer. I feel this application has been immensely beneficial to lighting the path of my future.
You see, before at the DDC, I was doing research on whether or not solar power could be used to power development in the third world, where the simple lack of power inhibits any hope for moving forward. However, since I asked Dan Lindley to be my adviser, I was forced to make make the project more related to security studies. I finally came up with the solution. I would analyze whether or not solar power can prevent the cause of resource wars. This brings together my current to tracks of interest. The first, the imperative need of this planet to address the coming environmental catastrophe. This is more than just global warming, which in itself could change the entire face of this world, this is about the soaring price of grain and corn as the demand increases world-wide, this is about the pollution in the Nile Delta that will reduce the ability to produce enough food. It also ties in my interest to stop one of the world's other great evil: war. Man can be so inhumane to man in so many ways, especially through war. This cannot be a way to solve problems in the future and we need to work to reduce the chances that it will ever happen. So my research will determine if solar power can allow these developing oasis communities to produce more food and water and therefore help to stave off the impending doom.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Day 46
March 5th
Well the test went fine. I hope. It's done now. Anyways, I apolgize for the lack of pictures on this blog. I promise to update it sometime. I am applying for the UROP grants for the summer. I had no idea the deadline was so soon. Basically I have to stay up all night doing them. Oh well, better get to it.
Well the test went fine. I hope. It's done now. Anyways, I apolgize for the lack of pictures on this blog. I promise to update it sometime. I am applying for the UROP grants for the summer. I had no idea the deadline was so soon. Basically I have to stay up all night doing them. Oh well, better get to it.
Day 45
March 4th,
Test tomorrow in Comparative Politics. Hopefully it will go well. You can never be sure with these tests. This week has been a pretty rough load. I have to apply for grants for the summer and these will be due the 10th. That will be a big day for me. I thought English again today. I don't understand a thing about English grammar. I feel bad for these kids and I am glad John is there to help me. Granted it makes it less of a formative experience for me, but its probably better for the kids we teach.
Test tomorrow in Comparative Politics. Hopefully it will go well. You can never be sure with these tests. This week has been a pretty rough load. I have to apply for grants for the summer and these will be due the 10th. That will be a big day for me. I thought English again today. I don't understand a thing about English grammar. I feel bad for these kids and I am glad John is there to help me. Granted it makes it less of a formative experience for me, but its probably better for the kids we teach.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Day 44
March 3rd
I am very tired at the time of writing this. I have been up late doing homework, and I still don't feel like I am anywhere closer to being finished. Luckily one of my tests on Wednesday was moved back to March 10th. I think that means I will have two exams on my birthday. Oh well, there could be worse things. Primaries tomorrow. Lets see where America whats to go.
I am very tired at the time of writing this. I have been up late doing homework, and I still don't feel like I am anywhere closer to being finished. Luckily one of my tests on Wednesday was moved back to March 10th. I think that means I will have two exams on my birthday. Oh well, there could be worse things. Primaries tomorrow. Lets see where America whats to go.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Day 43
March 2nd,
So today was another day of studying. It sucked and I also feel as if I wasn't too efficient in my studies. I really need to work on this if I want to do well here. Actually maybe not. We'll see, as the first test is tomorrow in Arabic. I did however take a break from studying to go on a Felucca ride with Peter who is visiting from Dublin and some other friends. This was my first Felucca ride and I must say it was quite an experience. It was very peaceful being out on the water on Sunset in Cairo. Everything just seemed to flow together and my school work and all the stresses of life just didn't seem to matter as much. I felt almost at one, or at least at home in the city, and at that time I was really looking forward to spending the rest of the summer here. However, then I remembered that spring is the good weather season, and in the summer it might be unbearable. Oh well, hopefully I will adjust. I have a lot of stuff on my plate this week, from finding an apartment for the summer to applying for grants to taking a bunch of tests. But if I can get it all done, next week is my birthday, and that's pretty special too.
So today was another day of studying. It sucked and I also feel as if I wasn't too efficient in my studies. I really need to work on this if I want to do well here. Actually maybe not. We'll see, as the first test is tomorrow in Arabic. I did however take a break from studying to go on a Felucca ride with Peter who is visiting from Dublin and some other friends. This was my first Felucca ride and I must say it was quite an experience. It was very peaceful being out on the water on Sunset in Cairo. Everything just seemed to flow together and my school work and all the stresses of life just didn't seem to matter as much. I felt almost at one, or at least at home in the city, and at that time I was really looking forward to spending the rest of the summer here. However, then I remembered that spring is the good weather season, and in the summer it might be unbearable. Oh well, hopefully I will adjust. I have a lot of stuff on my plate this week, from finding an apartment for the summer to applying for grants to taking a bunch of tests. But if I can get it all done, next week is my birthday, and that's pretty special too.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Day 42
March 1st
The only notable thing that happened to me today was that I purchased Plane tickets for Spring Break. Before I talk about that, let me detail to you the extent of my homework load. I have 4 tests next week, one in each one of my classes, plus regular homework, plus a paper in one of my classes. At Notre Dame, I believe I would be freaking out right about now. But here, It just doesn't seem to matter as much. I don't know if it's because the classes are so much easier, or if its just the laid back work ethic here, but everything just seems like stressful. I suppose if I had bad on one of these tests, my survival instincts will kick in and I will go back to high stress, but right now I am lackadaisical enough to spend time blogging about how lackadaisical I am. Pretty crazy.
As for Spring break, we are going to Athens and Istanbul. I am really excited about this as I know a little bit more about Greek History and I am looking forward to seeing everything. We are taking a train from Athens to Istanbul and stopping for like six hours in Thessaloníki. It should be fun. Plus Istanbul is just awesome, its the 4th largest city in the world and it spans two continents. How sweet is that? Well now, I must sleep so I can wake up early and study. So I am not stressed, but that doesn't mean I am a slacker.
The only notable thing that happened to me today was that I purchased Plane tickets for Spring Break. Before I talk about that, let me detail to you the extent of my homework load. I have 4 tests next week, one in each one of my classes, plus regular homework, plus a paper in one of my classes. At Notre Dame, I believe I would be freaking out right about now. But here, It just doesn't seem to matter as much. I don't know if it's because the classes are so much easier, or if its just the laid back work ethic here, but everything just seems like stressful. I suppose if I had bad on one of these tests, my survival instincts will kick in and I will go back to high stress, but right now I am lackadaisical enough to spend time blogging about how lackadaisical I am. Pretty crazy.
As for Spring break, we are going to Athens and Istanbul. I am really excited about this as I know a little bit more about Greek History and I am looking forward to seeing everything. We are taking a train from Athens to Istanbul and stopping for like six hours in Thessaloníki. It should be fun. Plus Istanbul is just awesome, its the 4th largest city in the world and it spans two continents. How sweet is that? Well now, I must sleep so I can wake up early and study. So I am not stressed, but that doesn't mean I am a slacker.
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