Returning

Returning
The Gobi Desert

Monday, November 19, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

The Many Faces....

The Resistance Museum was opened a short time ago.  I was very impressed with all the information explaining the Timorese's struggle for independence.  I'm definitely going back.  When I arrived, the President was just leaving.  I wanted to get his photo, but security wouldn't let me.

On Sunday, I participated in a 5K Walk/10K Run for charity.  Many people of all nationalities were either walking or running.  Please check out this foundation which supports women entrepreneurs in East Timor.  http://www.alolafoundation.org/

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception--like many Catholic churches the inside was spectacular.  It claims to be the largest cathedral in Southeast Asia with seating for 2000 people.  I watched as they got ready for Saturday Mass.

And more faces....


Thursday, November 15, 2012

Nov. 16-Yes, that's me! Please read further to find out more!

I had to go to the local clinic for a blood test and chest xray for my work visa.  This was the mode of transportation by one of the QSI workers.  I told him I hadn't been on a motorcycle for about 20 years.  He went slower than usual, but I still said my prayers!!!  The Timorese drivers are a little better than the Mongolian drivers.

A typical scene at a third world clinic/hospital.  When I got my chest xray, I just used the gown that others had obviously used.  I prayed to more gods!!!

Sunday, November 11, 2012

November 12-This is Karis and Steve. They are British and have lived in Timor Leste for seven years. They have quite a story to tell as they were here in 2006 when expats had to be evacuated. Fortunately, they made the last plane out by crawling through a hole in the airport fence as shooting was going on not too far away!

Karis and Steve live at the Ocean View Hotel and I spent the morning having coffee with them enjoying the view of the blue ocean.  As I look out over the vastness of the Timor Sea/Pacific Ocean, I feel connected to all of you.

Here and below are photos of my new abode which I call my cottage.



Pretty nice pool!  I'm working on doing laps.


Mistina also lives in the same compound and this is a view from her deck.

Saturday, November 3, 2012

November has come and so has more heat and humidity and mosquitoes. I woke up Saturday feeling like Dracula's bride so I purchased the biggest can of bug spray I could find and took on the task like the Terminator! Of course, I realize I could still be in -40 degree weather! Below are some scenes from my wonderful week off. Enjoy!

This is the Presidential Palace built by President Jose Ramos-Horta.  Read about his interesting life.  Zone (my spelling) was "my guard."  He wanted me to tutor him in English.  However, I respectfully declined.


President Ramos-Horta recruited spear-wielding warriors in traditional dress to guard the palace.
I had lunch right here at the BeachSide Hotel/Restaurant at Areia Branca, Dili.

To be a child again!
There was a two-man crew cleaning up the beach.  After collecting the trash, they burnt it right along the side of the road.









How often do you see a pig strolling along the beach?


It was fascinating to watch him cast his net over and over again!  They sell the fish right on the roadside.