Since yesterday was kind of like a half day I was unable to meet all of my students. But today we have schedules and I was able to meet all of my students. The girls are really sweet and I hope this will be a good year. I know that it will be very challenging because I am someplace new, different, and don’t speak the language fluently. I used up all the Arabic I know and my students said that I must be fluent. They are so kind because I never spoke one sentence just words. Since there are no textbooks I will have to make or find all of my resources which worries me. I know I can do this but I’m worried about having the time to do it. I am really worried about Scott because he is doing all of this while taking graduate classes online. Pray for us – we need a lot of strength and confidence right now. I felt really homesick today and I think it is just because I want some sense of normalcy. At home I know where to buy the cheapest groceries, I know where everything around the house, and I know how to cook at home. Right now things are all new all at once and so everything takes twice as long. I really just can’t wait for a month from now when we have things under control and have a rhythm and a routine. Now to give you an idea of how far out in the desert my school is let me show you two pictures.
Picture One: What most of the roads in Al Ain look like . . .
Picture Two: The beginning of the desert road that brings us to Nahel Schools
As we drive further and further into the desert we see camel herders following their camels. There are black camels, brown camels, and even white camels! My favorite was when we saw a camel herder following his herd on this four wheeler!!! Here’s some more pics of our drive:
If you click on the picture above you can see one of the camel herds. So after 30 min of this we pull into the small town of Nahel. We then go over three speed bumps and our school appears:
The school is set up really nice. There are two main atriums and off of each one are doors that lead to each classroom. I love it. The English teacher office is on one side of the atrium and I have to walk to my classroom on the other side of the atrium. I get to feel the warm breeze and dozens of beautiful desert birds buzz all around me. I love the indoor-outdoor feel of it all – not to mention the the fact that the girls are really really sweet. They are kind, polite, and most of them want to learn. Here is a picture of the first atrium off of my office:
There are big canopies to block out the hot sun and provide shade and if you look close you can see the doors leading to all of the classrooms. There are murals on the walls of Bedouin culture and Emirati pride – its a great building. Can’t wait for this weekend where I can catch up and get properly ready for next week!! Masalaama . . .
Linda Griffith said:
Jenna, I am reminded of a verse Scott quoted many years ago – Isaiah 58:11 – “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” This verse seems so appropriate for your location right now, and I trust you will both find it to be a reality in your lives. I love you both so much, or as Grandma would say, “Ich liebe dich!” I’m praying for you.
jennainabudhabi said:
Wow what a great verse and how true it rings for both my situation and where I physically am. God always is good – Ich liebe dich AWK!
barnandco said:
Ah-h Linda….what a beautiful and perfect verse for them. How encouraging!
Jenna and Scott…give yourself time. You guys are so resourceful and creative, and I,m sure all of you teachers r in the same boat and you,ll get ideas and help from each other. Always in r prayers and hearts, mom and dad :). š
Linda Griffith said:
Lynn, that verse actually came from Scott, after he had been in Guyana, I believe. They are indeed resourceful . . . spreading peanut butter with a wrench!!! What a special couple they are! I’m so thankful that God brought Jenna into Scott’s life. Scott and Jenna, I just know God is going to use you both in wonderful ways and that you will both be a blessing to many people. Love, Mom
Lynn barnett said:
Linda…and of course we are so-o-o thankful that the good Lord brought Scott into Jenna’s life!!! He gives here so much perspective, support, and unconditional love! As parents we are so lucky they have each other on this journey.
Hope things are well with you and Tony. Take care. Love, Lynn š
Linda Griffith said:
More thoughts – Shway, shway – Do you know the song “Step by Step”? It goes like this: Oh God, You are my God and I will ever praise You. Oh God, You are my God and I will ever praise You. I will seek You in the morning and I will learn to walk in Your ways and step by step You’ll lead me and I will follow You all of my days.
I’m trusting God to continue leading you both, step by step, as you are probably soon ready to get up and face a new day. Much love to you both!
mwilde818 said:
Jenna…It’s natural for you to be homesick occasionally…especially when you are facing so many new situations.The 1st few days of school are always stressful…in Buffalo or halfway across the world! Consider this…you are in a beautiful building with respectful students who want to learn….and they were impressed with your Arabic skills. Seems to me you’re off to a great start!
jennainabudhabi said:
You know what Marry? You’re right! There are so many positive things going for me and so much to be thankful for. Thanks for the perspective.