sharjawies gone silly

"Mannequins in Sharjah shops should be headless and only model "decent" clothing, a Sharjah Municipality circular has stated.

The municipality has urged shopkeepers to abide by a ban that prohibits the display of mannequins with facial features, said a senior Sharjah Municipality official.

"The only clothes on display now should be decent and the mannequins should be headless," said Khalid Al Jaberi, head of market control at Sharjah Municipality"

More here

The GN article goes to say - "it was a religious issue that raised many complaints from residents".

Hmmmmm, I'd really like to meet these residents. Perhaps, passive troubles for the average Sharjawi, 'cause me thinks it's heading the Saudi way.

sing along

Each year, thousands across America audition for an opportunity to realize dreams for fame via the American Idol show. Amongst talented singers, the folks at Idol also extend viewers, those unfortunate set of auditions on national television.

From the current season, my personal pick, is that of Eva Miller's audition gone bad. Though she fell (on her ass) part way thru - she continued to sing & dance away. Vanessa Carlton, probably shall sue - however, this girl displayed some love for Simon, and some heart, given the effort :)

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luck

It was a beautiful Sunday morning. The sun was bright, blue clear skies and slight winter breeze. Thought shall have the car washed, since I've been ignoring it for 3 weeks and all.

Anyhooo, had the car washed and a quick stop at the local starbucks, for a decaff, and voila, it starts to snow heavily. Quite honestly, I was cheesed off, 'cause, after three weeks of rain and snow, I *just* had the car cleaned on what seemed, a bright, sunny morning.

Allow me to express it all via some pictures taken, as I sat thru traffic (and every goddamn traffic light) with the snow, on the short drive back to the apartment.

uh oh! snow!


damn!


double damn!


holy F!


......what hurt, the fact, as soon as I drove home - walked into the apartment, this was the view - NO MO snow & the sun's out - *duh*?

Duh!


*update: captions 've been added to the pictures

picture perfect

I came across this amazing photo blog of Basil Khleif. Personally, I think he is quite skillful and has an inherent ability to capture moments that make a difference.

If you have not already, please visit his blog and treat yourself to some amazing pictures of the UAE and foreign shores - it's worth it.

job description - "mom"

A friend send this to me, it's quite funny and very true actually. I owe my mom a lifetime (and beyond) of gratitude, love, care and support. If it were not for her support and perseverance - my life shall not have turned out the way it is today.

Being a mom, can indeed be the toughest job in the whole wide world. So people - let your mums know the appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis, and let them know they are appreciated :)

POSITION: Mother,, Mama, Mummy, Mumma, Ma

JOB DESCRIPTION:
Long term, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an, often chaotic environment. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organisational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities. Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
The rest of your life. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs £5. Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf. Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers. Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects. Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks. Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next. Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION:
Virtually none. Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE:
None required unfortunately. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION:
Get this! You pay them! Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent. When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS:
While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free love, hugs, kisses and smiles for life if you play your cards right.

casual talk

Given that English language is widely used, and none amongst (my) non-Emi friends correspond wholly in Arabic (or any other language) – over the years, friends and I have sort of developed an informal set of phrases & expressions (friends joke, these can be uaeian phrases/expressions) Below are common & casual few from the uaeian vocabulary. I’ve listed a few, if used in dialogue/or a sentence.

Do pardon if I've slightly butchered two noble languages – however, I put forth (cultural) evolution as a meek defense.

1. Nikka-fied - as in Nikkah between a bride and bridegroom: "A & B were Nikka-fied last week". Likewise, "Talaq-ed" (hopefully fewer shall have to use that)

2. Inshallah-ed/Mashallah-ed: "Towards the end of our conversation, he inshallah-ed our views" or "I think he inshallah-ed it?". - (do note, this can be used positively, as well as a "passive" negative and if things are uncertain).

3. "Kaif halak/halik you?" - as in, how are you?

4. "Ana doing good" - as in, "I am doing good"

5. "Ma'assalama for now" - as in, bye for now.

6. "Tayyeb-ed it" as in Okayed: "We've Tayyeb-ed the weekend plan"

7. "Shukrans" as in Thanks - "Many Shukrans"

8. "Ain you goin" - as in, "where you going?"

9. "Khubz & Jam" - i.e. bread & Jam (well, this ain't new, it's been in place since kindergarten days)

10. Mabrootulations - Mabrook & congratulations conjoined: "Hey Mabrootulations on the baby"

There's more - however, I shall stop at ten, for now.

chocoholic

Nope, I didn't bake that - a friend bought it from this tiny (well kept secret) store in the city.

She's been talking about 'em for ages. The chocolate (with mouse) cake was sinfully chocoholic & beyond - loved it to the core - totally wicked!

soul talk

Being busy can be an excuse, however, often reality. Am back at work and faced with deadlines, even before I've had the chance to sit on my chair and say "hmmm".

Late evenings (yes already), calls, meaningless meetings - people flying into the city - more meetings on numbers that quite well might make or break a deal - dealing with a hundred voicemails, emails and all. Out for dinner & drinks, appease/entertain corporate guests, small talk, kiss ass talk, empty talk and hollow laughter - whilst simultaneously easing out jetlag, homesickness and all.

Times like these, I ponder away - what is the purpose of life? When shall I get to do more of those simple things that matter as well - have all that sufficient time for family, friends and do things that matter to the heart, conscience and well being?

At this point - the purpose seems (mostly) destined to slave away given corporate slavery. Don't get me wrong, I like my job, and most folks I work with - plus am paid well - not much to complain, I guess. However, there is much more I'd like to do - and have. I am not talking material aspects of life, instead those simple pleasures most often taken for granted - which seem harder to come by as we get older.

There are only so many days we get on this wonderful planet, with people and places that have come to define who we are. When time is up - it's up, there is no going back. How can I have some of that cake and eat it as well - not asking much, is it?

underwater city

So SHJ has become an underwater city again!.

Whoever is involved with planning of SHJ need to realize, an efficient infrastructure is the lifeline of an Emirate. The lack of what clearly seems insufficient planning towards the city's infrastructure is appalling.

Issues given the recent downpour in DXB is not bad compared to underwater city next door -good 'ol SHJ. It seems we never learn from the past or the neighbour next door. SHJ is a disaster - residents are overwhelmed given the constant pour & flooding. A friend left for work this morning at 8:45AM and got into Dubai Damac offices at 2PM! Another friend's rental car outlet, is flooded, given SHJ's drainage system is clogged and/or overwhelmed.

Across newer areas of Al Nahda & Al Khan (the new Corniche area) there's just way too many construction of high rises and insufficient roads or sewage structure.

As you drive into SHJ(from DXB) - can't help notice close proximity of buildings, often built right on the highway - there is just no room for expansion - in some instances, residents step off the building lobby, right into a highway, I kid you not! There is little (read none/zero)concept applied, similar to DXB, wherein a buffer is maintained for future road (width) expansion.

SHJ can be the beautiful Emirate/suburbia, it once was - people need to stop/scale back on ill fated planning, pointless beautification projects & most often, greed driven high rise construction craze. Take a look at what they've done to the lovely Buhaira Corniche, once amongst the most beautiful places in the UAE. Collectively, it's killing this once beautiful Emirate.

Apologies on the rant - can't help it.

random thoughts

It's been rather whirlwind couple of weeks - am not sure how (or why) days pass in haste. Christmas, post Christmas/New Year parties amongst casual get together, took a lot of my time. It's quite heart warming to know people sincerely wish to with me, spend time, chat up and have me as part of their celebrations or casual rendezvous.

In many ways, it's been fantastic to be home and reflect upon a few aspects - from self, to changes in people's lives (many of whom I've grown up with) and also changes across the nation. At times, I feel quite distant from most - yet quite attached, just like old times. Confusing and understandable.

However, along with the positive there has been the share of unpleasantness. Most often, I think, I have matured to see & remember the good, and let the unpleasantness pass by. Over the years, I have come to realize, reality can be quite different from (preconceived) perception.

Spending time at home with mom & dad brings most joy. Simple pleasures - as having tea in my mom's garden, casual chats with mom, her home cooking, basic repairs at home or walking into the local café - to a brisk stroll through town or an action packed outing with friends seem precious moments I have always taken for granted back in the days.

Changes across DXB - SHJ leaves me breathless. Am not a huge fan of supersonic changes, however (partly) witnessing DXB transform itself much towards it's ambitious road map is inspiring to say the least. It's not all perfect, however - having lived with it from infancy - witnessing what it has become today feels surreal & inspiring - sort of tells you, nothing is impossible. As for SHJ, well it's home, am quite sentimental - however shall say, if people put a little more thought, a whole lot more can be done for the better.

I have several thoughts to blog/debate on - however (lame excuse) time is quite short. Many more folks to meet, many more newer places to see and couple of personal issues to deal with. I confess I have had some guilt for absence from blogworld.

All said I haven't been this happy for a while. It feels good to have a break, away from the capitalistic madness/rush of amazing New York City (at times I miss it all) and splurge on simple quality moments - quite refreshing, shwarmah for the soul indeed.

feliz navidad

Merry Christmas & an exciting 2008 everyone!

going home

Less, than 8 hours to my flight from JFK to DXB and hopefully I shall be on my way home for Christmas. Busy with packing and some re-packing. I am almost done with last minute shopping, or so I thought, till dad threw in a few stuff (whilst I was on the phone with him ...... and packing)

Christmas in New York City is just amazing. Though, I have not spent a Christmas eve in NYC there is an amazing cozy yuletide cheer in the air. The city is brilliantly lit up - people shopping midst Christmas trees, lights, soulful carols and family get together. There are bits of snow and cold chilly breeze and at times crisp fall days with brilliant sunshine and blue skies - it all adds to the yuletide. A drive thru to the suburbs and you shall see beautifully lit homes with Christmas trees, lights & snow filled gardens - mom's dads', grandma's/pa's, cousins & friends, all home - in the hometown they grew up - meeting for Christmas, to reminisce the growing days & and treasured memoirs - share laughs, recipes, home cooked meals, love & care and more.

Had a few parties and dinners to attend, and there's plenty more should I stay back, however must spend Christmas eve with mom & dad, family, friends, home cooking, around the pine & presents at home and all else that matters.

Am quite excited this year on my trip - partly 'cause this year I've had a some added challenges with life and at work, however, it's all in the past and well now. At this point, I look forward to spending time with family & friends. Once home, I’ve got plans/trips thought out - hopefully I'll get to some of them. I wait anxiously for this time of the year. As soon as fall sets in, I am super excited as a little kid off on summer holidays - and start counting the days, book my flights - get started with the shopping and all.

At this point, I am all festive & happy - can't help humming away Amy Grant's sleigh ride - love the tune & lyrics ..... "just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring-ting-tingling" .... :)

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WHAM!

This one's for you Joe - realize you don't fancy Wham or George, however I think you might like this oldie :)

I realize Christmas doesn't feel quite the same. Hold on/hang on to those wonderful memoirs, do whatever you have to, to move on. Treasure the spirit of Christmas & Nat. This Christmas is a whole new season - chin up & get festive!

accidents & loonies

OK, here's my beef - as the infrastructure gets better, road fatalities increase (?)or so it seems this is what's happening in the UAE. Yup, sure, traffic has increased ten fold - however the UAE, especially Dubai has some world class highways - they may not be perfect (yet),and may need a few touch ups, but it's damn good stuff.

Given the influx of folks from all parts of the globe, there exist the best & worst driving cultures in the UAE. It's amazing the varied driving cultures you shall see on a strip of highway. Accidents happen, but they are preventable - especially, when you know it could be fatal to an innocent party. Hence, I don't understand why some loonies are unable to extend that extra bit of caution.

The government is doing the best they can, so are Dubai cops (wish I could say the same for SHJ, Anjad) - and drivers must take an effort to co-operate. Loonies have got to understand, driving is a responsibility, as much as a pleasure/privilege. Lives are involved - somebody's dad, mom or kids. Way too many loonies on the roads these days - I see several every Christmas. I could go on, but have nothing new to add - there has been much debate on this topic, however little change. When in the UAE - nothing makes me more mad, than a selfish, ignorant lunatic of a driver. Folks need to mature, take responsibility and get on with sane, sensible & safe driving.

Quite sorry to hear some loonie caused you discomfort i*.. - wishing you a speedy recovery. Happy shopping for new set of wheels (me recommend the Hummer)- pleasant thoughts are with you.

Happy Birthday!

Happy 36th Birthday - Al Emarat. Wish you continued peace, success & smiles ahead - always.

Fellow blogger, Blog Sheikh, has uploaded some fantastic videos on UAE, Sheikh Zayed and the early days - you can view it at his blog United Blogging

the truth in engineering

If an i* and an Al - went shopping!

(note how an i* visited every other store, except - the gap :)

NYC men & women, between the ages of 18 & 35 - am beyond convinced:)


I am at loss for words - yes, already!

understanding

Recently Movie Mania and CG had posts on "understanding" amongst all those you live/make up the UAE community.

Besides safety, the opportunity to understand someone from another culture, religion or background was a primary asset to those who grew up in the UAE. The ability to understand, comprehend and to an extent, accept differed ways of life is something which has helped most folks from the UAE, adapt better to foreign shores/travels.

My circle of friends comprised mostly of South Asians, Arabs and English - most of whom were Muslims & Christians and some Hindus. Often we understood the ways of life and cultures amongst our homes were "different" - however, each amongst us, learned to understand and therefore accept & respect such ways of life. Often, I'd have questions on certain aspects within my community/family as much as my Muslim/Hindu friends and in a way, we helped each other understand better.

Am not saying, we lived in perfect understanding, awareness & harmony with each other - quite honestly, most of us as children tried to do that and more, as any child growing up in such environment could. However, I've always sadly, accepted our parents lived within individual communities, for the most part.

But then, cultures always evolve - and given the prospect of having children grow up amongst a mixed community it shall give rise to a new culture of sorts, which is what I think exists in many fellow "uaeians" today. I believe Local Expat is a prime example.

Perhaps am going on a rant - the purpose for this post, was to direct some sense to disturbing comments at UAECB and SD's blog, 'cause most often it boils down to US v/s them. There is much hate & angst, and often am not sure where most of it is coming from. I don't think I've heard or felt such vibes growing up in the UAE. Most people who've lived there for many decades, still prefer living in the UAE - yes cost of living has gone up, so have traffic issues - but UAE continues to provide a safe, pleasurable place to live & raise a family. It is by no means perfect, there is much to do on several freedom aspects, equality, continued women empowerment, pollution controls, amongst much else to work on - however slow & steady things shall move towards the right direction, I believe that.

All said - nobody is perfect, a community has it's set of pros & cons. It's about taking an effort to reach out and understand one another - after all we are people, whose lives perhaps is created from the same source/creator, but born into different homes & cultures.

worn out?

Not sure if am procrastinating or just worn out these days? I find myself more fatigued than usual. This year, specifically, more so the past few weeks, 've been taxing on the mind & body, given work & life.

There is much to do before year-end, and I find myself with little energy, drive or enthusiasm. For instance, today at work, the mind pushed to expedite a few deadline driven deliverables, however, the body just wouldn't budge. After a while, the mind gave up, well it sorta went dead, like an automotive battery and then it felt like an "alternator" within, went bust?

The norm is to leave work around 8PM - however, these days, I get home by 6, yet find myself too tired for anything.

Writing is on the wall - time for a break, need to recharge, re-evaluate and energize! Crawling towards those holidays in a month's time.

Kit-Kat anyone?

trip to toronto

It was a whirlwind 2 weeks - however, did manage to get a day off from the weekend. Drove around downtown TO, took a few snaps and met up with a few friends from the large social circle, I have in the Toronto area.

A few pics from the trip.

Snapped this, as we took off from NYC, love the colours of the sunset, just brilliant, subtle and, quite calming. Reminds me of sunset views from my home in SHJ (minus the elevation)


That city all lit up is downtown Buffalo, a city in upstate New York, which borders Ontario, Canada. It's just about an hour's drive from Toronto to Buffalo. Today, given the rise of the Canadian$ (or rather depreciation of the US$)many Canadians drive into Buffalo for quick shopping and huge bargains - some at half the Canadian prices.

The US portion of Niagara falls lies close to Buffalo. That dark black pitch, is lake Ontario.


The cluster of high rises is uptown Toronto (Yonge/Sheppard) area. I used to live in one of those buildings, whilst in Toronto, years ago.


View from the hotel room in downtown - the view faces north on Yonge street. I try and stay at this hotel as often as possible, and even try to have the same room - takes away some stress from constant travels.


Daily downtown Toronto traffic - there simply, are no roads!


A Falun Gong rally in downtown. Must admit, having grown up pretty much oblivious to live demonstrations/rallies, sighting one does make me a bit anxious - especially all that shouting by lead demonstrators. Feels so odd.



Fall colours in the city



Whilst taxing on the runway, I noticed this beautiful "lady", proudly draped in red, white, green and black - looking stunning at the Toronto's Pearson Airport.



Finally, glad to be home, sweet home.

flu, fall and all

So I've got the flu. Sort of knew it was coming, given it's the flu season, plus I haven't been taking care of myself given work commitments and all.

Woke up this morning, (quite early) with flu symptoms at it's best, a pounding headache, sore throat, congestion - the works. Unable to crawl off my bed, reached for the blackberry send a short note to my admin, am not going to make to work today.

Lay in bed thru noon. Feeling (slightly) better, dragged myself to the washroom, brushed & washed up, threw on my rob for some warmth, made some coffee, switched on some light music, walked over to my bedroom window, pulled aside the curtains for some sunlight and view.

The sun was bright, skies were quite blue, beautiful fall breeze, fall colours on trees, grass so very green - almost a perfect fall day. It sort of hit me then, that given my daily rush for the bus or train to work, the many (similar) pretty days I've missed over the past several days & weeks - and now, I had almost missed the fall colours, the beautiful sky and sunlight, and everything else, which makes days quite beautiful & worth looking forward to and life, that extra more pleasant.

Never thought I'd say this - am kinda glad, I've got the flu, at least I've got a chance to see daylight, nature's colours and appreciate simple things in life which matter.

A few casual pics from my bedroom window.