Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Camels in the desert

While driving down the road we came across some camels. It was like seeing kangaroos in Australia for the first time....


We stopped and got a good look (and smell....)

We then turned to see that we had attracted some attention. A car stopped and some local children got out to check us out...they likely wondered why we had our video camera out and were so excited about seeing camels (which roam all over the desert!!).

Us looking at the camel, and some children looking at us. (We are used to it now)



The camel even smiled for the camera....

Friday, December 26, 2008

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Rain, rain, rain

Apparently it never rains in Oman, however when it does there is a great deal of concern!! First of all everyone cheers and the sound of children's laughter can be heard in the distance. Secondly the fear sets in and people rush home to safety. You see, there is no gutter system or drains here, consequently there is no where for the rain to go....except up!!! We were fortunate that the rain didn't last too long, although we did get some pretty massive puddles to play in!! (not shown here, I was too busy splashing away!!)







Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Darian's play

Darian was in a school play and was not shy at all, she melted my heart as I watched her singing at the top her lungs! the pictures aren't so good, however the video captured it all!! The best part was that Riley observed her big sister on stage, and so when it came time for her own performance, she really understood what it was all about...read the next blog for that update!!!





Riley's Christmas concert

Riley had her first Christmas concert at school. Thanks to the moral support from her big sister, she was able to over come her stage fright. In fact, the 2 Ebert girls stole the show!!!















Thursday, November 27, 2008

Nakhal Fort

We visited the stately Nakhal Fort, which was amazing! The fort lies at the junction of plain and mountain, and it's interior has been restored! Not very child friendly, however the children loved exploring (all children, big and small).








Camping part 2

After setting up in a remote part of the desert, we were surprised when some local boys crept up on us and watched from behind a large rock. They didn't speak any English, and my Arabic is limited, however we were able to establish basic communication. They wanted to play.... Riley offered her ball, and Darian sung songs to them. We were then greeted by some local goats who were curious about us as well; luckily Darian is training to be a shephard.









Desert camping Part 1

The four of us went on an adventure into the desert, where we camped out. We drove into the middle of Wadi Bani Awf. The pictures only capture a glimpse of our experience. This place was amazing! Goats go to exraordinary lengths to enjoy the fruits and mountain views!!






Monday, November 24, 2008

Thursday, November 20, 2008