Oh my gosh, it's nearly Christmas!!

I can't believe where the time has gone. The semester has been in full swing for a while now and final exams are just around the corner. This has actually been one of the strangest semesters I've ever taught. It has been so stop and start with so many breaks for so many different reasons that it's been really difficult to 'get into it'. Next week we have two days of classes and then it's two days off for National Day followed by another religious holiday for those going to the Haj. We have 12 days off in all!

Yesterday the college celebrated National Day and all the staff wore National Dress to work. We had planned an evening of celebrations and a big barbecue but unfortunately a really heavy downpour mid-afternoon washed those plans down the drain. Photos in the slideshow on the left (click on a photo to see the album in full screen).

Jan & I are making the most ofthe holidays next week by going to New York to see Darius and Kristi and with a bit of luck, their new baby which is due any day now. The weather will be cold we know and as this was a bit of an unexpected trip, nearly all of our winter clothing is still in Australia (waiting for next year). So we will have to beg and borrow some warm clothes when we get there (or visit the local Salvation Army thrift shop!).

When we get back there will only be a week and a half before Christmas. And only five days till the pantomine, where I'm playing the Captain in an adaptation of Dick Whittington (who gets shipwrecked and washed up on the shores of Ras Al Khaimah). Should be fun.

Had a chat to Laura this morning who is really excited, as the builders have started work on their new house. Sean & Leanne have been sick during the week with a tummy bug but should be getting over it by now. Hope to talk to them over the week end too.

Think that's all for now. Will try and write from The Big Apple next week.