Being a Veg-head abroad

A phrase that I committed to memory day one is....Ana nabateyeh or أنا نباتي (I am a vegetarian).

Vegetarianism is not completely a foreign concept here, most people have at least heard of it. Although no one really comprehends why one would not want to sink their teeth into a juicy slice of meat -- well as long as it's not pork, ha!

Here meat is both part of the culture and part of the religion. It is sacred and often used for religious purposes as well. For example during Eid Al-Adha (عيد الأضحى‎), the "Festival of Sacrifice" or "Greater Eid," families traditionally sacrifice an animal, usually a sheep or goat. The meat is then divided into three parts; one portion for the family, on for neighbors or relatives, and the last is given to the poor.

As my friend Naoufel Testaouni said it's "the biggest animal slaughter of the year."
Most local people I speak to are like:

"Oh your a vegetarian....but you still eat chicken, right?"

"Nope no chicken," I say.

"WALLAH!?!?!"

"Yeah, really. And no fish either."

I guess it's pretty similar to the reaction compared to the majority of people back home. Just in Western culture vegetarianism and other dietetic lifestyles (raw food diet, vegan, gluten-free/intolerant, lactose intolerant, and so on) are more common and mainstream.

It's ok though because I understand why I am a vegetarian. And although a lot of those reason do not necessarily exist here in Jordan, I feel that it's wrong for me to change something that is a crucial part of who I am, simply because I am living in another country. Especially when I know I will be returning to the USA in less than a year.

In tone with the welcoming culture of Jordanians', people have been very accommodating to my dietary choices, or lack-there-of. Like when I went to my student Fadi's home for some traditional cuisine, his mother was kind enough to prepare a plethora of salads for me. And she made the stuffed grape leaves without the typical ingredient of lamb.

Same when I eat lunch with my students, no one orders meat cause "Miss" is with us.


I'm doing pretty good being a vegetarian here, although I desperately miss my boca products, tofu, and Trader Joes. I have mostly been eating veggies; cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, pickles, eggplant, peppers, an the like. Fruit; oranges, clementines, and apples (note to self - eat more bananas!!) And then of course hummus, masab'baha, falafal, eggs, and bread. Oh and soup, soup, and more soup.

The moral of the story: It's been almost four years and I am still committed to the cause. 5 year plan...turn vegan, insha'allah.

Arabeeze; the language of the youth.

Arabeeze is a new and popular language in Jordan, mainly among the collegiate youth. In Arabeeze you mix English and Arabic by writing words using Roman letters and numbers. It is purely a written language.

I think Arabeeze is mostly used among the youth because of the popularity of networking sites like MySpace and Facebook. These sights have allowed people to connect in ways never thought possible. Using Arabeeze allows users to type in a more universal font, since Arabic script is not always included on a standard keyboard.

Arabeeze is treated as a "slang" language and thus not appropiate to use in a more professional setting. But, it's used often to communicate between friends and family members via Facebook, emails and texts messages.

With help from my friend Rouchen I have constructed a key below:

2 - أ (a)
3 - ع (ayn)
5 - ﺥ‎ (kh)
6 - ﻁ‎ (ta)
7 - ﺡ‎ (ha)
8 - ﻕ‎ (q)
9 - ﺹ‎ (sa)
9' - ﺽ‎ (da)

AIESEC Madison Banquet Video

Made this video for my LC back home!

Sorry it was kinda boring, hahah. I was trying to be professional, blah.

Get it girl, get it, get it gurrlllll!

دبكة!!!

Dancing some Dabkeh (دبكة) with my students.

Dabkeh is a traditional folk dance of Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine.

Hahahaha I need A LOT of practice!!!

Messitna habibitna.

Reduce.Reuse.Recycle.

This post is a long time coming....but after the 350 event it's about time I punch it out.

About 2 months ago I attended an AIESEC event called "iGreen." This was a sweet event hosted by AIESEC Amman. At the event I had an opportunity to learn about environmental realities here in Jordan and share my passions in living sustainably. We also did a bit of 'action steps' brainstorming on how to make Jordan and Jordanians more green, although I wish there was a more concrete and measurable outcome from this event.

It was so interesting to be in a room with people from all over the globe and hear their accounts of environmental practices in their country; Canada, China, Hungary, and Portugal. There was a nice mix of of people attending the event. Many "lettuce heads" (a.k.a. people who know a lot about being 'green') and "potatoes" (a.k.a. people less informed about the 'green' movement, but eager to learn). Haha I just came up with those analogies hope they work!

Anyways, I repped the U.S.A. with a fellow member of @US, Sophie. As I have an upbringing/lifestyle choice in the areas of organics, local food, and vegetarianism - partially thanks to my father....this is the route or presentation went.

AIESEC Jordan is doing a lot here to bring environmentalism to the forefront. Mainly, by bringing in international talent (interns) to work for multiple corporate sustainability companies, whose impacts reach far across the Arab World.

It's been really hard for me to ignore my innate habits of recycling. But here it just isn't an option for most of us. The only way (that I know of) in which one can recycle is through a 'green' company that recycles. A luxury I, and 99.9% of the people in this country don't have.

Also, living in Irbid, I don't have access to Carrefour and an organics isle. But I do have the opportunity to to shop locally. I can buy fruits and veggies from a stands on the side of the road next to the farm they were grown in. I use local olive oil (the olives were picked by my student from the olive trees on his property and then pressed by him into olive oil). I can buy eggs at the suk that are still reminiscent of dirt and the occasional feather.

Another plus about living in a small country, is that when I read on a label "Made in Jordan" I can be confident that this product only traveled TOPS 300 miles from farm to table.

Although it has been challenging to keep the shop-a-holic at bay, I have become more minimalistic. More out of necessity rather than personal preference, but for the better.

And I always try to reuse all I can.
1. Water bottles. Which sadly litter every street corner and beautiful landscape here. A result of living in a country that lacks natural aquifers and fresh rivers and lakes, forcing it to dependent on foreign H20 and thus millions of plastic water bottles to transport that water here.

2. Tea bags. Duh, you can use them more than once people! And one bag is good for a whole pot of tea, not one 4 oz. glass.

3. Egg cartons. When I first got to Jordan I was struggling to figure out how to store and organize all my jewelery without the GIANT jewelry box I have at home. Well wallah!




First step - convince all my students to use a trash can instead of the street. Today Fadi asked me "Miss should I throw this out the window or in the garbage?" "The trash can!" I replied with a duh look on my face.

At least they know trash receptacles exist now.

“The true servants of the most gracious are those who tread gently on the earth.” The Qu’ran. Sura 25, verse 63. Well even the Qu'ran is saying it, so yellah let's listen up!

350 Event

This weekend I went to a candlelight vigil at the Roman Amphitheater in downtown Amman for a 350 event.

"350.org is an international campaign dedicated to building a movement to unite the world around solutions to the climate crisis--the solutions that science and justice demand. The number 350--as in parts per million, the level scientists have identified as the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere. But 350 is more than a number--it's a symbol of where we need to head as a planet." (350.org)

I had not yet been inside the Amphitheater and boy was it beautiful at night, esp with the candles and the giant portrait of King Hussein shining down on us.

Although I thoroughly enjoyed the event and the chance to think and talk about 'green issues' here in Jordan, I gotta say that for a 'green' event....it was pretty black.

The whole point was to spread the word about climate change and ways we as individuals can make positive change in our communities and insha'allah in the world. So why then did we use an estimated 3,000 and 3,000 tea lights (both one-time-use products) to illuminate the amphitheater? Why were there we have 25 2x2 posters, half in color none-the-less? Why were there a bunch of handout materials (again printed in color) and not even double-sided!

All we did was create a larger footprint on this planet. The "green wave" recently hit Jordan, so I am pleased to see events of this nature taking place in this country, but in order to make a measurable impact we really need to practice what we preach.

On a lovely side note, some amazing pictures resulted and fun was had.

Interns Christmas!

Last night we gathered at the usual hangout location "JJ's house" for a Christmas party. It was so nice to spend some time with all of the interns here in Jordan. The night was full of jolly Christmas tunes, holiday sweets, a trimmed tree, and charades. Oh and don't forget the booze and dirty Santa jokes! Good ol' times.

Of course the holidays make the home sickness set in a bit, but it's a nice pick me up to celebrate and gather with friends.

Reason why I love and hate the word "مرحبا"

Jordan is such a welcoming country. It's just part of the culture. When people discover that you are not from here they immediately want to make you feel welcomed and at home. I have had the wonderful opportunity to visit many of my students homes and gather with them and their families. They truly are very inviting. Always offering everything they have to their guests; coffee and tea, food, sweets, whatever. Even gifts. These acts of kindness and acceptance have really made my experience here in Jordan.

Jordanian homes are even build for entertaining. A traditional home will have a 'sitting room.' A lavishly decorated room, used ONLY when visiting with guests.

Although I appreciate the welcoming nature of the people here and I definitely don't want it to stop....I have been here for almost 3 months now and people are still saying "marhaba" to me wherever I go. The suk, in a taxi, on the street, everywhere. It makes me feel like I will never be truly integrated with the local population. Like I will always be viewed as an outsider. I'm not a tourist here in Jordan, I am a resident. But, I doubt I will ever fully blend in.

The USD

Last week over عيد الأضحى (Eid Al-Adha) holiday I traveled to Syria and Lebanon. One thing that I found very interesting was the popularity of the USD. My currency was everywhere! Seriously. At the Syrian border they only accepted USD or Lira (the Syrian Pound). And in Beirut USD and Liban (the Lebanese currency) are both widely accepted. You can even pay for the same items using both currencies. Wallah!

It's the strangest thing to go to an ATM on the other side of the world and have the option to extract your currency. I even smelled my dollars to check their authenticity, ha.

Generally I have noticed that people in the Middle East are complete loyalists and nationalist. Everyone has so much pride for their nation. Which is wonderful to see, but for the same reason I was surprised that the USD is so commonly used. Wouldn't you want to use the currency of your own nation.

For some reason it just doesn't feel right....it feels illegal.

Holidays abroad

So it's been 2 months now that I have been in Jordan and that's 2 major holidays I have not celebrated.

1. Halloween.
Halloween is hands down my favorite holiday, especially when in Madison. To dress up and be someone else for a day (or 3 days -- Halloween is an entire weekend on my campus!) is so much fun. Since I was little I always loved to play dress-up, still a favorite pass-time of mine. I even have a dress-up chest in my room, wallah! Ready to go the second anyone says "themed party" or whenever there is an AIESEC conference.

So it was strange not participating in the traditional festivities this year. But praise Allah for Meena Zia! She kept the Trisha King persona alive by being ME for Halloween! HAHAHA. Amazing. Shocking to see the resemblance, utterly jaw dropping, ha.


Meena I <3 you! You've definitely got my attitude down to a T!

2. Thanksgiving.
Probably 2nd favorite holiday. Usually a time to spend with family and friends, cook lots and lots of delicious food; mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, string beans, apple and pumpkin pie....ugh not to mention the gravy! Boy am I making myself hungry. And play charades and cards -- a somewhat tradition in our family. As this was my 1st Thanksgiving away from home, it was a little weird. It was more like the holiday came and went and somehow skipped right past me.

No Tofurkey for this veg-head, just traditional Lebanese cuisine. On a good note, it was oh so delicious and I was in Beirut, Lebanon....so I think I've got a lot to be thankful for.

Christmas is coming up....a.k.a. favorite holiday #3. Expecting a merry time with friends, possibly in Bethlehem and Jerusalem, confirmation coming soon.

New Moon

Ahh saw New Moon last night! Soooo good. Had to like bribe people to go with me lol, but not ashamed of my tween love for the series. Would have been nice to see it with H.K. but could not wait another 8 months to see the film, hahaha.

New Moon was the first movie I saw in the cinema here and boy was it an experience. These Jordanian girls went buck wild EVERY SINGLE time there was even a glimpse of skin or a فاضح scene. It was ridiculous. They were clapping, cheering, "ohh-ing" and "ahhhh-ing" at every hug, kiss, or girl power moment! Half way through the film, me and the other foreigners I went with started joining in. If you can't bet em' join em, right?

Oh and they chatted throughout the entire movie, not cool.All in all New Moon was ممتاز!!! Eagerly awaiting Eclipse, set to be released June 30, 2010!

If age is nothing but a number...

Ok the secret is out! Womp womp. I am only 21. For the last few years of my life (pre-21) I was acting and had basically convinced myself that I was 25. I even had a semi-legit Illinois ID to prove it ha!

But, here in Jordan the majority of my close friends and even my students are older than me. Some almost a whole decade. They are all graduated from college, here in Jordan starting off their professional careers. It has sunk in that I am 21. I am young. Not to toot my own horn, but I'm really proud of myself for being here in Jordan having this experience at my age. I feel mature and I like it.

For the past 3 years I have been working multiple jobs, doing AIESEC, and going to school . I really enjoyed those experiences, but I was always sooooo busy and stretched thin. It's nice to fully devote my time and energy to my work and have free time to explore, develop, and build relationships with people here. It does kinda suck though when I think about having to return to college and put the full-time work lifestyle on hold.

Deep breath. I've got some time before 'real life' starts...and I'm going to make the most of it.

This is a man's world.

One thing that has really been ticking me off lately are the double standards in Jordan for men and women.

For example, around 9 o'clock all the women file into their homes and men litter the streets in packs. I live in an all female 'dorm' with a 10:00pm curfew. To be fair I knew that prior to moving in, but I didn't realize that it would bother me so much. The male students living in 'dorms' don't have a curfew....they can stay out all night if they wanted. Even my male students who are living at home with their parents and families don't have a curfew. Ugh, it's not like I even have anywhere to go in Irbid after 10:00pm anyways....it's more the fact that it's forbidden.

I would guess for the women it's an issue of safety. Go home to your father, brother, or your all female dorm where it is safe. Personally, I have never felt in danger here, insha'allah it will remain that way.

I think I said this before but I am truly happy that I have the opportunity to rep it for all the ladies at my work place. Being the only woman feels awkward sometimes, but my colleagues and students have had very little professional experience with women. It's about time they got a dose and I'm glad I'm the one to administer it!

Ideas on family and independence

Family is an important aspect of Jordanian culture. It is very common for young people here to rely on their family, mainly their parents, well into their twenties and even thirties. For many people it is for financial reasons. They live at home to save money while they are in university or starting their careers. Believe me I understand the benefits in doing that, but I think that the youth here develop their independence much later as a result.

There are so many life changing experiences that I have had being away from my parents, but that time away from them is what's makes me appreciate them that much more. And I'm so lucky to have parents that gave the space and freedom to explore and develop my independence.

For me, it started from a young age. When I was like 9 years old I began going to Lutheran summer sleep-away camps. All throughout high school I ventured on week long volunteer and mission trips across the United States. I have played intensive club volleyball and softball for over half of my life. I went to Kenya and Tanzania when I graduated high school. And I moved away for college. Close enough that I could visit home whenever I wanted, but far enough that I felt as though I was on my own. On top of that I have had more jobs than any person I know my age.

Most of the college students I know here return home every weekend and live with their families. Most of them have never had a job in their life. They don't know how to cook, do laundry, or clean. And I think it's because many of them have never been forced to do these type of things on their own. On one hand I understand the desire to surround yourself with people who love you, understand you, and take care of you (such as your family), but you have to cut the cord at some point, right?

A person does a lot of growing up and maturing when they have to fend for themselves, experiences many Jordanians my age and older have not yet had.

Maid in Amman

My very first weekend in Amman, I stayed with a friend of mine and her family. It was very interesting to see family dynamics within an upper middle class Jordanian family. I sincerely appreciated their hospitality. They arranged a room for me to sleep in, fed me delicious home cooked meals (btw this was the one and only time thus far that I ate meat -- only two small kebobs), and made me feel very welcomed. But to no ones fault, I felt very uncomfortable there.

It is very common for families in Amman to have maids, even live in ones or multiple maids. Growing up in the middle class neighborhood of Oak Park, IL, of course I am familiar with the occupation. But I have never experienced it to this extent. I can't imagine having another person waiting on me hand and foot. Paying someone to fulfil my every need so that I don't have to lift a finger.

I am not saying that people with maids don't work hard or that they are lazy, it really just comes down to a cultural difference, I think.

It was very strange being in an atmosphere like that, even though it was just for a weekend. I pride myself on being independent and self-sufficient, making it even harder for me to accept this kind of help. Simple things like making my own Nescafe, carrying my luggage, fixing agila...all HAD to be done by the maid. I made sure to always say "thank you" whenever she did anything for me, but the other members of the family ordered her around constantly, and simply called out her name when they needed something, without expression any type of gratitude in return.

The worst part is that the majority of the maids here are from Sri Lanka and Indonesia, making them unrecognized citizens, a.k.a. illegal immigrants in Jordan. They are treated as help not as human-beings. They have very little rights and are often mistreated by their employers.

I know that prejudice and racism, unfortunately exist in every society, but watching it take place first hand within another culture is a very strange experience. Being an outspoken, tolerant and accepting person, it is difficult to stand by and watch injustice occur. But being a non-fluent Arabic speaker, on top of being a foreigner and a guest in this country, I feel like it's not my place to step into situations like that.

Similarly, at most work places and offices there are "helpers," who are most likely Egyptian and thus treated like scum. Many Jordanians dislike Egyptians because they have caused a huge increase in the population here. But their presence is necessary. They do the jobs no one else wants to do.

I will compare the situation here to the one we are currently facing in the United States, regarding Mexicans in America. Just to be clear, most of the Hispanic immigrants are Mexican, since Mexico is our southern neighbor, but many people also come from other Latin American countries. Many residents of the US resent this population. Claiming that they immigrate illegally to our country, consume our public resources, and populate our land. But what many people fail to realize is that their lives would be drastically different without the extra labor force of Mexican immigrants. For example, the restaurant industry would cease to exist without them.

Censorship in Jordan

The Western area (mainly the USA) has a large presence in Jordan's entertainment industry. For example, I could turn on the TV at any moment and find episodes of The Simpsons, The OC, LOST (yeah!), Friends, and CSI. Whatever, you name it! Oh and Oprah. Even the crap American television made it here e.g. According to Jim.

But in following with the more conservative societal and religious beliefs of the country, censorship on television and in films is very prominent. I am used to the 'radio edit' version of songs, which of course they have here in Jordan as well, but when all aspects of romance, love, and sex are completely cut out, a lot of the plot and entertainment value is lost.

It's funny to be watching an episode and all the sudden "snap" new scene, no explanation. Just "poof," gone as if it never existed.

Even 'boot-legged' movies that you buy on the street (btw one of my fave parts of Jordan!) are censored. I was surprised that even Twilight was changed! I mean that movie (although amazing) was designed for fragile, virgin tweens....so why is it not suitable for the Jordanian youth? The one and only steamy scene -- when Edward and Bella kiss in her room (for all of 2.5 seconds) was spliced. Imagine my disappointment at that!

Cultural tib-bits.

1. If you give the 'peace sign' here, it is interpreted as a 'V' for 'victory' in Palestine. I need to keep my hippie tendencies in check.

2. Do not. I repeat, DO NOT rest your feet on the back of someones chair (while they are sitting in it)...it's very offensive! In class one day we were watching a movie, so I was chillin' out and relaxing and wanted to put my feet up. I put them on the back of one of my student's chairs and the whole class busts out. He was so offended that he asked for my formal apology.

3. I found a sweet Palestine lanyard (40 piasters) and had to have it to add to my anklet collection, but today one of my students saw it around my ankle and took it offensively. There I go again, me and my dirty feet haha. I obliged and tied it around my wrist instead.

More coming soon....insha'allah.

قهوة و شاي من فضلك

One of my favorite parts of the culture here in Jordan is the obsession with drinking tea and coffee! At home I get shit for my 4 cups of coffee a day habit -- which believe it or not runs in the King family. But here it's completely kosher.

A cup of Nescafe with breakfast. Arabic coffee first thing when I get to work. Then tea with lunch. A quick coffee after work. Tea once I am settled in at home. Earl gray during my Arabic lesson. Well you get the point, ha.

Caffeine really does affect my mood. I need it to survive. I know I should kick the habit, or at the least cut it back, but that's not gunna happen while I'm in the Mideast. It's way too good. Way too cheap. And way to accessible to stop now! Plus can one really be expected to turn down drive through coffee from Abu Subh--(spell check please)??? I think not.

Now I am a student too!

I decided to start taking colloquial Arabic lesson in Irbid with a friend of mine. I have class for about an hour, 5 days a week which is costing me 100JD. Although I studied Modern Standard Arabic at my university in the states - for one semester, a year ago, I might add - it has proven to less helpful than I expected. Mainly because the difference in the Jordanian dialect and the amount of "slang" used here.

Yes I can write and read - well at least sound out words without knowing their meaning, ha. I can count and tell people my name, where I am from, where I work, etc. I know tons of objects (like window, door, car, coffee, sugar, etc. - the useless stuff)...but simple day-to-day activities are challenging without knowing the Jordanian spoken language.

If I was living permanently in Amman, I could get by just fine. The average taxi driver, shop owner, and young person in the capital city speaks English - at least little, but in Irbid it is much less common to come across someone who understands English, outside of the local AIESEC chapter. Also, learning Arabic, or at the least improving on my Arabic knowledge, is just a personal goal of mine while here in Jordan.

Insha'allah this class will help me push myself into putting in the time and effort to learn the language.

Work life.

In case you don't already know, I have been living in Irbid, Jordan for the past month. I am teaching English at Al-Huson College which is just outside of Irbid, in the Career Development Center (CDC). The Center is run by professors from the College, but entirely funded by USAID -- who also pays for my salary.

The goal of the course is to teach the students basic English skills - reading, writing, and speaking in a professional setting - and piping technology (a specific field of engineering). If they pass both courses they are guaranteed employment as managers in an international engineering company. This is a wonderful opportunity for these men and I am genuinely grateful to be a part of their development.

Work is amazing! I love running my own classroom, having the freedom to plan and execute my own curriculum, but the best part of work are my students. Although, I have found it quite a challenge to plan an entire English education program with little direction and assistance from the CDC.


Currently, I have 19 students, ages 21-28 years old. Although they act like 12 yearolds sometimes, ha. Getting them to sit still, remain focused, quiet, and engaged takes much longer than I would like. I try to be stern with them using my Arabic phrases, which they just find hilarious, instead of commanding. My theory is this: At the beginning of class I did not establish enough of a teacher/student boundary, I am the only woman in the workplace, and I am their age. This makes it difficult for them and for me to draw the line between friend and "superior." Furthermore, my work hard/play hard outlook translates to work a little/play a lot. For example, I eat lunch with them everyday. During this time we laugh and joke, talk about relationships, music, the nightlife, religion, and traveling etc...topics not commonly discussed between teachers and students, and often between men and women here in Jordan.


The work days are long. I leave home around 8:30am, cab it to the bus station, then take a bus to the college. Class is from 9:00am till 3:00 or 4:00pm daily -- depending on my mood. We have 2 or 3 15 minute 'smoke' breaks, plus an hour break for lunch. Seriously my students go completely insane if it has been more than an hour without a smoke.

Basically that is teaching like 6 hours a day! Which is crazy long. Then all of my prep work for class; like designing lesson plans, curriculum, and writing exams is done at home. Plus, grading homework and exams...the moral of the story is that the majority of my time here has been spent working. But thus far, it has been very beneficial for my students which is keeping me motivated to go to work everyday.

We are scheduled to begin a new class schedule next week, in which I will only be teaching 2-3 hours per day. For the rest of the day, my students will be learning statistics, physics, and engineering. I can't wait to have the 'free time' at work to prepare for class each day. I know that it will greatly improve the material I design and make for a happier work environment -- insha'allah!

My #1 Trait

I think my #1 trait here in Jordan is that I am a native English speaker.

Pretty frequently when strangers discover that I am American and that I am a teacher, they always ask for my help.

Like I went to the police station to get my visa extended and all the officer's were like "Oh Mam, can you teach our sons English?" And at school during the second week, I had a visitor who came to see if I would practice English conversation with his friend. I said "sure" and the next day he showed up with 6 people who all wanted to practice conversation during my 1 hour lunch break.

On campus a student stopped me and asked me where I was from. "The US," I said. He responded, with "OMG, it's such a pleasure to speak with a native English speaker, thank you!"

Even the 26 year old secretary in my office attempts to skip out on as much of his own work as possible, to sit in on my lectures.

Oh and this week, my roommate asked me if I can teach all the students in her department at Yarmouk University. Apparently, its a really good way to make extra money. So I am considering it, although if I have the spare time and energy I would gladly do it for free. I mean I came to Jordan to teach, to impact the lives of others, and to learn about myself and develop...so "the more the merrier" they say.

Overdoing it.

I have noticed that most of the women here love the makeup, like seriously love it. Especially eye makeup. I'm not trying to judge here, I'm just pointing it out. But some of you should adopt the phrase "less is more."

Yes, of course at home women wear makeup. And yes, sometimes it's overdone. But never at my university would every single girl be decked out every day, like I see daily at work. Like how much time does that take? Don't you ever have a bum day? Honestly, I think you would be more beautiful with less makeup.

I wonder if it has anything to do with the more conservative wardrobe. For example, on the bus to work I am the only woman not wearing a head scarf, a skirt to the floor, heels, long sleeves, and a face of makeup. So maybe the makeup is to compensate for not showing lots of skin....

Irbid...dance party, huh??

A few weeks back I went to Don Vito Cafe for a DJ concert. It was so much fun! After hearing all the "locals" say over and over again that Irbid is boring and lame and no fun, I was starting to think that I would spend the next 6 months cooped up in my room every night after work.

Usually here it is hard to see people interacting with the opposite sex. On the street most people stick with their same sex. I see boys and girls in pairs, but usually they are dating or within the protective walls of their University away from the prying eyes of parents and society. But rarely do you see large groups of boys and girls out in public, let alone dancing and grinding. But yes that was the scene at Don Vito.

Strobe lights, bubble machine, 3 DJs, 2 rap groups, break dancers and a shit ton of dancing. Just like a hip-hop show in Chi-town. It was toooo legit! Apparently it does not happen often, but I plan to be at every single one, insha'allah.

The Drinking Culture

Upon deciding to come to Jordan, I realized that I would have to put the party aspect of my lifestyle on hold. I was ok with that. After going to school at Wisconsin for three years I had definitely had my share, and then some, of the party scene. Here in Irbid there is no where to party. No bars, at least none that women can enter. And only 1 or 2 liquor stores, that I have yet to see. And again, that is fine. It's nice to see people be social, dance, and have fun without being intoxicated.

On weekends I have been traveling to Amman, the capital city. A place full of ex-pats, American study-abroad students, and Christians. In Amman there are many opportunities I did not expect to find in a country that is 94% Muslim. Amman is full of bars, cafes (that serve alcohol), and even clubs, although I have yet to go to any.

When setting expectations for coming here, abstaining from drinking alcohol was a large part of that. I told myself I was going to "turn a new leaf". So I am very happy that I spend my weekdays drug-free in Irbid. I can focus on work, learning about the culture, language, and people, and experiencing the more authentic Jordanian lifestyle. I will save my weekends for meeting other trainees, traveling the country, and maybe even partying. I am thankful that I permanently reside in Irbid, because in Amman I think I could continue to live life in almost the same way I was in The USA, which is not why I came to Jordan. I wanted new and challenging experience. I wanted something different. And I got that.




I did document my first beer
abroad though, Amstel.

For 2 JD each!!!!

That's like 8 bus rides, f.y.i.





Like any place around the world there is always an underground scene. Yesterday, I asked some of my students about the drinking habits of people here (outside of class of course). Two of them told me that all the men in their family used to be "alcoholics." They drank every single day. And many of the college-aged men here drink daily. Not sure if it an act of rebellion or just out of curiosity and boredom, probably a bit of both. They said you can find anything here you want- referring to drugs and alcohol - you just have to know where to look. Good thing I don't have that map.

Fair & Lovely.

One of my students sent me this picture.
Frightening, eh?
Reminds me a bit of the late Michael Jackson.

Fro Encounter.

I met another FRO!!!

Seriously we are soooooo hard to come by over here.

And Fatima is Sudanese, not even Jordanian, ha.

Orange Mocha Frappachino!

So yes there are Starbucks here in Jordan and NO I have not been there. And probs won't go there because Nescafe and قهوة عربية are much better anyways.

I was told that everyone here "boycotts" Starbucks every Sunday. Apparently the Starbucks Corp. sends a portion of their Sunday profits to Israel because their chairman, Howard Shultz supports Israel. I heard McDonald's is in on it too??

Still awaiting confirmation on this, need to do some research.

I did find this image though...

Things I Miss.

I miss my friends and family of course.

I miss fresh water. In Chicago we have Lake Michigan one of the Great Lakes. It supplies the entire area of north-east Illinois with clean water. In Madison, my university is situated on an isthmus - between two lakes - Lake Mendota and Lake Menona. Here in Jordan, fresh flowing water is scarce. All drinking water comes out of a plastic bottle or must be boiled first. I miss the convenience of cupping my hands under the sink and taking a sip.

I miss boca burgers and fake chicken. I am getting by here being a vegetarian. I always have enough to eat and everything tastes delicious. But I have less variety. I would pay like 5 JD for a spicy chik'n boca right now!

I miss riding my bicycle. I heard about a group called Cycle Jordan from another trainee. Need to look into it further...

And all my beautiful, funk-a-delic clothes, need to find me a thrift store stat.

USA 666

Its really interesting to see the American influences here in Jordan. TV, cinema, and music have definitely made a large impact on the younger generation. Everyone my age is a fan of Shakira, just like my friends in Madison (RAGE!), but oddly enough Enrique Iglesias is still house hold name. Personally his music is pretty crappy, but whatev.

Similarly the malls here are just like home. City Mall is complete with ALDO, BCBG, MAC, teenie-bopper stores like Claire's ha, Carrefour - which is an utterly amazing French grocery store, and many upscale shops (that I still can't afford). Everything here seems to be a bit cheaper. For example, gasoline, food, rent, but clothes (at the mall at least) are a tad more expensive. So like the smart, thrifty shopper I am...I will wait till the end of the season to indulge my inner shop-a-holic in the clearance section.

I have been told many, many times that Jordanians love Americans. Which is wonderful to hear, but obviously there are people all over the world who, to put it lightly, disagree with American culture and foreign policy. Many of them residing in the USA. While out hiking in Amman I came across this graffiti.

Hmmmm....I wasn't sure who Begin was, so I had to google him, but Menachem Begin he was the 6th prime minister of Israel, f.y.i. Obviously, I don't support outright profanity and hatred for others, such as this display. And I was a bit shocked to see it. However, I won't deny that I got a good laugh out of "USA 666." Are we really that devilish???

Or NOT!

Ok nevermind. I am NEVER driving again in Jordan!

Of course, a woman runs into our car while I was driving.

WTF?!

FML!

You could say that again.

TA3MYA.

Just went on a lunch run with two of my students to TA3MYA.
The best and cheapest falafel (فلافل) in Irbid. I have been there 2x in the past 24 hours, ha.

Oh and I drove there. Yup that's right, I am now an pro at driving in Jordan. Holla at me.

Ruby.

Tonight I had my reception party with LC Irbid. We went to a hookah lounge/cafe (of course) the main thing to do here in Irbid. As a welcoming gift I got a hookah! Sweeeet. Now I can defenitely have daily shisha, my dream come true.

She's a baby, red, hubly bubbly. And I shall call her Ruby.

Shokran LC IRBID!

SMILES.

Jordanians LOVE and I mean <3 using smiley faces. Or maybe it's part of the AIESEC culture here....still trying to figure it out....

:)

:p

:|

:(

:@

:D

=D

:-)

Never knew I could express myself in so many ways via keyboard symbols. I have already started picking it up, ha.

Al-Huson CDC

This is my classroom. Pretty sweet right?? We have 15 computers, almost reliable wireless internet, AC, and a projector for me to use while teaching the students. Since this center and my employment are entirely funded by USAID...there are USAID From the American People stickers galore!! On every single object in the building. On the computers, desks, folders, and even on the microwave. It looks so comical. I think they are installing the American Flag wallpaper next week, ha.

Kanafeh كنافة

Kanafeh (كناف) is a tasty dessert made from shredded filo dough, baked cheese, and pistachios. Looks like shredded wheat cereal, ha! Who would have thought all those would equal a dessert. But god it's good!

Things I love about Jordan - Take 2

1. People treat their friends. Boys buy things for girls, like taxi rides, bus fares, and street food...just to be nice. Wow they must have great moms.

And girls buy things for girls, just because it's Monday, or Tuesday, or because they see something they think you would like. What goes around comes around.

2. Flowers are still used as a courting ritual and it's sweet, not old fashioned or cheesy.

3. There are 10, yes 10 "super" markets within 3 blocks of my house.

4. When people discover you are not from here, they always say "welcome!"

It's magically delicious,

Damn you Britney!

Damn Britney Spears to hell and all those other scantily dressed teeny-boppers on television in the US for giving the world the perception that all young American girls wear tube tops and mini-skirts 24/7. And even to places like high school and church.

Yes world, some ladies are tramps....but most girls save the revealing fits for the bars, the clubs, and the bedroom. At least the chicas in my circle.

We also have the rep for having distant family relationships, which unfortunately is true with some. Happy to be close with mine. So a word to the wise keep your loved ones close.

Thoughts about people watching....or not.

In Madison I was fortunate enough to have a balcony over looking the always bustling State Street and Peace Park. I am used to people watching. Not usually as a means to judge others, but to investigate the world around me.

Being very interested in fashion, I tend to look people up and down on the street, gauging their ensembles as I simultaneously brainstorms clothing combinations I could create with my own wardrobe.

In my culture eye-contact is important. It lets others know that you acknowledge their presence and existence. During conversation eye contact is used, both out of respect and as a means to convey to the speaker your attentiveness. I have become completely used to this.

So when I learned today that I should NOT be making eye contact with everyone and anyone I please on the street, in particular men, I was like "well crap, that might be a tough habit to crack."

I guess locking eyes with a guy here gives them the impression that you are trying to holla at them or hook up (which in most cases that's not what is on my mind ha). I will have to keep that in check!

On the other hand....people seem to have no issue with looking my way. Or blurting out the first thing that comes to their mind. Like "Ohhhh my god!" Or "Obama hair." - at least that was my interpretation of his Arabic comment.

Here I almost try to calm my appearance, or play up the hippie/bohemian side of my fashion. I drape myself in long loose fabrics, flowy scarfs, and dark shades, but I still manage to draw an immense amount attention to myself. I know this is partially because of my gender, my somewhat question mark ethnicity, and of course the fro (which I cut and tamed before coming to Jordan ha). Observing the women here, who - at least in public, seem act and dress more conservatively than I am used to, inadvertently makes me feel like I am almost asking for it.

In my sophomore year of college I realized how much I stand out in my own community. Not sure what exactly changed that year; my self-confidence, the way I dress, my attitude, or just the overall way I carry myself...or maybe that was just when I realized it, not sure? But I have come to terms with that and it doesn't really phase me anymore. Although it is funny to hear constant commentary from passers by....young, old, men, women, even little children all seem to find me interesting. Which all and all is cool. Better to be noticed that to go through life invisible.

Still local celeb-ing,

Honorary AIESECer.

Irbid is well known for two things; university students and internet cafes. Soooo many cafes that apparently the city made the Guinness Book.

At one such cafe I had a very interesting conversation with a young woman. She embraces all that encompasses is the mission of AIESEC, but within her Islamic faith. Mainly leading by example and the idea of cultural exchange through personal experience. Honestly I was surprised to learn that she was not in the organization, ha.

She has the dream to go to USA, not only to teach Arabic but to help others understand her culture and religion. In return she hopes to experience American culture first-hand and learn knowledge of more advanced technology and medicine in order to bring it back to her own people here in Jordan.

So often in my studies in anthropology I learn about the "brain-drain" which has become an epidemic all across Africa. Those fortunate enough to have the opportunity to gain higher education, often seek advanced training in the "developed" world, leaving behind their native homeland, culture, and people. I'm not trying to say that an individual should not strive for excellence, but when the entire population of intellectuals immigrate, the country is left with many occupational absences. So it was inspiring to meet a youthful woman determined to return with this knowledge to better her own community.

Furthermore, she has made the choice to take ownership over her actions, because only by changing ones-self can you change the lives of others. She practices the ideals of 'practicing what you preach,' living sustainably, and acting as if we live in a class-less society, by means of treating all humans as equals. I hope to come across more people like her in my months to come.

Oh GWB, he is always pooping on America.

While searching, I came across this. The new Iraqi Dinar....obviously satirical but none the less the ugly face of America abroad.

Things I love about Jordan Take 1

1. The JD, just cooler and prettier than the USD.





<----- 1JD 2. Falafel - BIG sandwich only 60 piasters. Like 6/10th JD aka cheap cheap! And way better then the stuff at Med Cafe!

3. DVDs galore. 6 new release DVDs and even ones still in American theaters, so boot-legged ha. I got; I love you man, The Ugly Truth, The Hangover, SlumdogMillionaire, MILK, and Bruno...all together only 5JD

4. Cigarettes. Marlboro lights 1JD.

Life is good.

Wow no joke these kids really don't know English!

Day #1 of work at Al Huson CDC (Career Development Center). The center is completely state of the art. 15 computers in the computer room, a conference room, receptionist desk, and two offices for the directors. We have internet, a kitchenette, and a boat load of Nescafe so in this department we are good to go! The Al Huson University itself, is quite small, about 5,000 students all packed into a campus composed of 5 buildings. It is quaint but beautiful. Littered with olive trees, large open corridors, and a youthful student body, I think it will become a very comfortable place to work.

Praise Allah for the amazing staff of professors, otherwise I would have been utterly screwed. At first thought I assumed that today, (being my first day of work) would be full of enthralling tasks like introductions, training, getting situated and the like. But NO! I arrived to work around 9:45am and my students showed up ready to go at 10:30am although class didn't even begin till 11:00am. Holy crap was I not expecting that. I currently have a 1 page outline for a 3-6 month course, no books, no workspace, and about zero knowledge of teaching English...yikes this job is going to be a challenge.

Ok ok so I know I sound a bit freaked out (which honestly I am), but seriously I am really excited for this opportunity. I get to make my own curriculum and classroom and have A LOT of freedom and independence. Only problem is...my students have already graduated from a 2 year program and have various degrees in engineering, but they have absolutely no English background. Today in class I was like "Hello, my name is Trisha or Batrisha" and the were like "uuuughhhhhh wtf are you saying strange foreign lady with an afro!"

So just a small hurdle to jump and we will be speaking English in no time. So we did introductions today, to the best of our abilities. Then the Al Huson professors stepped in and began translating and explaining everything I said in Arabic. I think I will need a permanent translator in the classroom for at least the next few weeks. Praise Allah that the weekend in the Arab world is Friday and Saturday, because now I have 2 days to prepare before my next class. Deep breath, it's going to take a few weeks to get the ball rolling, but the students are dedicated and so am I. I mean it;s not like their English could get any worse...we can only move forward.

All in all my end goal is to in 3 months, maybe longer if needed, turn 21 students with no English training, into engineering supervisors, ready to go on site, communicate in English with people in an international setting. I also have to teach etiquette, proper manners and body language, self-grooming and attire, oh yeah and how to read and write.

Ohhhh and p.s. all my students are male. And all my colleagues are male. Surprise, surprise.

واحد

Hello world, This is my first blog post!

Feeling a tad like Ms. Carrie Bradshaw as I it in my room, smoking, and trying to type fast enough to keep up with my racing mind. Well my journey began almost a week ago. I departed Chicago for D.C. where I had a lovely last hurrah with Kaitlin. Then to NYC where I spent two much needed days with friends and family. After a 12+ hours flight to Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. I had an entire night to chill in the airport. I actually enjoyed that time. I reflected on my last days in America and began to ponder my soon-to-be life in Jordan. By the way, the Abu Dhabi airport is gorgeous! And I would recommend all to go, even if just on a layover haha. Blue and yellow tiles covered the walls floor to ceiling, architecture like none I had ever seen. After being asked by fellow tourists if they could take my picture (apparently I stand out everywhere) and letting a tiny Croatian girl try on my size 10 moccasins in a hope they would fit her and she could buy them off me, which didn't happen...I was back on a plane to my final destination!

Hmmm, well first of all mad props to AIESEC Jordan! After hearing many stories of failed reception, but trying to keep a positive attitude it was a calm breeze to coast through customs, and see @ers waiting for me. As we drove to Amman, the capital city, I was shocked by the lack of grass and immense amount familiar restaurants (Pizza Hut, Hardees, and KFCs galore). I then went to the MC flat in Amman before heading to Irbid where I will be living and working for the next 6 months.

After contemplating my choices of living situations for no joke 2 hours; Option #1 - An all female dorm with a curfew, bunking with an @er, my own bedroom, and basically the same perks of living situation in Madison or option #2 - Living alone (at least for the first few months), paying almost double,but a brand new apartment though...my selling point came down to a microwave ha and internet access, how materialistic of me. But after spending just a few short hours in the dorm I realize it should have been a no-brainer. Live with @ers or live alone...obvious choice be with AIESECers, duh! And my rent is only 122 JD/month, score!

After dropping my bags I went to the Irbid Mall. Well more like a Jordanian Super Target then any mall in America. Complete with groceries (some familiar like Coco-cola and Doritos but most were completely foreign), home appliances, toys, and clothing. After shopping it was time to partake in the daily hookah session. And by daily, I mean AT LEAST once a day. Btw, its Nagila here, not hookah, not shisha. Praise allah for Hala, fellow @er, new friend and dorm neighbor.

I slept for the next 16 hours straight minus the times I woke up to the annoyance of Rooster crows. Spent the day hanging around the apartment, smoking nagila, and learning key Jordanian Arabic phrases - like my address, directions, and names of foods and utensils. And although I took Arabic for one semester - almost a year ago...the rumors are true! Al Kitab will only get you so far, seeing as how like no one in the world speaks the modern standard form.

Tomorrow is my first day of work. I will not be teaching yet, insha'allah because I'm not prepared...hopefully just getting introduced to the job, meeting colleagues, receiving training and so on. But LCM with @Irbid on Saturday which should be great. I have been given the opportunity to introduce myself to the LC so I am going to make a slideshow. Can't wait to meet everyone here. Pictures and more blog posts soon.

Ma'salama.