"When you were young you learned to walk, to speak, and to function within the culture that surrounded you," he explained, "Did you not have to relearn the same basic skills in this country? And has the arduous process of adaptation not augmented your wisdom?"

The old man hunched over a bit and continued softly, "Rejoice, you have grown up twice and still have your youth. Do with this opportunity what you can and, when the time comes, give those who survive you reason to celebrate your life. Your wisdom will assuredly outlast your youth."

Little and Big Things

When we get in the car, Ahmed rolls the windows down to get some air circulating. As we begin to drive off, he rolls my window up at precisely the right time - just before the wind starts to mess up my hair.

He is the only man to feed me from his hand, and makes sure I have more than plenty to eat.

He stays on top of my Pepsi Max supply and orders it before I'm out.

He touches my shoulder in public to let me know he remains connected to me at all times.

He understands me when I can't find the words to express what I really mean.

He lets me sleep as long as I want.

He leads me yet I am a full partner.

He drinks American coffee with me to share an experience, even though I know he thinks it's disgusting.

He shares his hopes and dreams, and they always involve me.

Our shared faith and belief in the Almighty strengthens and inspires us to do more and be more.

He washes the dishes.

He doesn't tolerate my politeness. Ahmed wants to know my true feelings about everything.

He communicates with me verbally, with his eyes and body language, and it is always clear.

He cooks a full, delicious breakfast for me every morning.

He appreciates my curves and loves my muscles.

When I receive flowers from Ahmed, it really means something to me.

He heals and erases all my past hurts and promises to keep me safe, loved and whole.


This, and a million more little and big things.

Let's see how I'm doing on that 5 year plan

On November 5, 2008, I listed a few fantasy goals and wishes for the next 5 years. Let's see how I'm doing so far.

I wanna:
-date a hot Indian man named Raj

Almost dated an Indian, but he was still in India when I met my love.

-go to Egypt a second time

Check.

-buy a car that's actually good in the snow

May not be necessary. Now I'll need a car that's good in chaotic driving environments covered in sand.

-sunbathe on a nude beach

Not yet, maybe on the honeymoon!

-live in Chicago for at least a year

eh, who knows?

-marry someone who's foreign with a wonderful voice

May be in the process

-write my book

Or our book

-buy a sweet house with tons of character

or build :)

-sip wine in Napa Valley with someone who appreciates wine

still on the list

-have a koi pond

Not sure if it's possible in Egypt

-in the next five years.