by Natasha Tynes | Mar 7, 2006 | Everyday me!, Metro Daze
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After returning home from work the other day, I found an unpleasant surprise waiting for me in the mailbox. Amid the junk mail and endless brochures was a notice from the Maryland police. Of course, I was intrigued. I tore the envelope open quickly only to find a paper with three small images of my car running a red light! The first feeling that came into my mind was a sense of being naked — exposed — for the enjoyment of Big Brother.
I was shocked and surprised to realize that I actually did this early one morning. I’m someone who drives very carefully and extremely slowly, something that drives my husband absolutely crazy. "These cameras are just revenue generators!" was his only commentary on the incident. Well, they certainly are controversial. The only reason I can offer for my red light running was being half-asleep while listening to the early morning weather report! The price for this careless behavior: $75! Sigh. No more early morning radio for me! Bring on Green Day. (Image enlarges on click.)
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by Natasha Tynes | Jan 7, 2006 | Metro Daze, Shutterbug, Weblogs
While the Jameeds were in town, we had our first official East Coast Jordan Planet meeting. Attendants included the Jameeds, Beisan and yours truly (along with the husband). The venue was Paolo’s Ristorante in beautiful Georgetown, rumored to have been a favorite of the late King Hussein. We discussed blogging issues, Jordanian politics, life in the US and the development of Jordan Planet.
I found it fascinating that all of us were able to converse non-stop for hours on end like long-time best friends. I guess, in a way, we were all connected by the love for our country and our passion for blogging. One thing that Jordan Planet has created — in addition to its serving as a platform for self-expression — are these mini-Jordanian communities that are scattered across the globe. So once again, kudos to the man who created our wonderful Planet.
After a delicious feast at Paolo’s, we made our way to another favorite of mine — Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe — for continuing discussions. Oh, and here’s a link to a previous "non-official" East Coast congress, where Laith, Besian and I enjoyed a brief encounter.
by Natasha Tynes | Jan 6, 2006 | Everyday me!, Metro Daze, Shutterbug
For the past three days, we have been having a marvelous time with the Jameeds. We met up with them in New York for New Year’s Eve, where we had a blast in every sense of the word! New York on that day was simply out of this world! The sights and sounds of the city were exhilarating. Without doubt, New Year’s Eve of 2006 will be a memorable one.
One interesting New Year’s Eve observation was how jam-packed Manhattan was with NYPD policemen. They were simply everywhere, wandering around in groups in their highly visible dark blue uniforms. Another memorable sight for me was the skating rink at Rockefeller Plaza. It was fascinating to finally see the rink up close and personal after seeing it in movies many, many times. By the way, it looks much smaller in real life.
Making the whole environment still more surreal and movie-like, out of the blue a young man skating with his girlfriend got down on one knee and presented his partner with a ring! The crowd cheered, the couple kissed; I guess it was a yes! Being in NYC at this moment and seeing such a Hollywood-ish moment in real life was truly surreal! Yes, I felt like I was watching a film!
But, I must say, I was disappointed with how small and insignificant the New Year’s ball [changes are afoot] is when we saw it moving behind the barriers of Times Square. Somehow I was expecting it to be more glamorous, or at least more colorful.
The next day, we returned to the DC metro area, where we took the Jameeds to see some of what DC has to offer. Georgetown was the first place on the list, as we enjoyed a nice dinner at the quaint French bistro, Café La Rouche. The next day we explored the monuments, including Capitol Hill, the Washington Monument, the Vietnam War Memorial, and some museums.
The next day, the Jameeds were on their own, while the two of us went back to work. We met up later that night for dinner and a movie (Munich). The Jameeds are a superb couple — very smart, extremely friendly and yes, incredibly funny! We really enjoyed their company. We hope we convinced them to leave Mormon-land behind and move to the nation’s capital. We’ll see!
by Natasha Tynes | Dec 31, 2005 | Food and Drink, Metro Daze, Shutterbug
Last night,
I devoured my first Mansaf for the first time in over six months! Yes, you heard me right: Six whole months without a taste of my country’s national dish! I know. I could lose my Jordanian citizenship for such a faux pas, but I’m sure those in charge would understand!
The place where we partook of this celestial meal was my friend Ajlounieh’s place, where we, along with other family friends, were invited to a dinner prepared by Ajlounieh’s super mom. Of course, and without doubt, the food was just divine. As was the case with my first Magloubeh in the US, I ate like there was no tomorrow.
Besides the heavenly food, the company was just divine. The guest list was diverse: Jordanians, one Palestinian, a Syrian, a Lebanese and some Americans. All were gathered together to get a taste of Jordan’s famous Mansaf.
So as not to break the tradition, we all enjoyed our Mansaf while talking about nothing less than the political developments in our volatile region. Our primarily pan-Arab chit-chat went on for hours and I have to say it was an entirely engaging and thought-provoking conversation.
Last night was definitely memorable. We had such a truly wonderful, wonderful time. I can’t wait for the day when I start throwing Mansaf dinner parties of my own. Hopefully this day is just around the corner. This picture comes courtesy of the one and only, Ajlounieh.
by Natasha Tynes | Dec 23, 2005 | Metro Daze, Mi Familia, Shutterbug
We are off to Virginia tomorrow morning to celebrate Christmas with various assembled family members. I’m really looking forward to the festive season, as Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. I have to admit, though, I’ve never felt as homesick as I’m feeling now. Last year, we had such a wonderful Christmas with our family back in Jordan.
One of the many useful results of this, at times, time–consuming blogging business is that I can go back in time and re-read entries about my feelings and thoughts during a certain period of time. Looking back at last year’s Christmas, I remember how blissful it was. This Christmas photo album is only a snapshot of the wonderful time we had.
All our family members on this side of the world have been working hard to make this Christmas a special one. From a Christmas Eve dinner to singing Christmas carols at church and a planned Christmas day lunch, things are looking as wonderful as possible.
The picture above is of the National Tree with assorted trains around it behind the fence. The tree is at the Ellipse, the public space in front of the White House in Washington DC, between it and the Washington Monument. If you click the picture, it’ll enlarge and you can get a glimpse of the White House in the background. I really enjoyed being there last Sunday, experiencing a fun, festive atmosphere. Besides the tree and wonderful decorations, Christmas carols were played at a loud enough volume for everyone to enjoy.
The best thing about the day was that the repulsive, commercial part of Christmas that I have seen so extensively here was missing. It was purely a spiritual celebration, as music played and happy families enjoyed the season. Seeing the Nativity scene at the Ellipse also put a huge smile on my face, as it served as a crystal clear reminder of what Christmas is all about: The birth of Jesus Christ. It was never about maxing out credit cards by getting the "best deals." Merry Christmas everyone and happy holidays!!
by Natasha Tynes | Dec 7, 2005 | Metro Daze, Shutterbug
Two days ago a snowstorm made its way across the DC-Metro area. The snowfall began around noon Monday and continued all night. The next morning, we awoke to an all-white scene. The sight was refreshing, as I hadn’t seen snow in a couple of years. What I found fascinating was that in spite of the inches of snow that engulfed the area, business continued, as usual. This is quite unlike what usually happens in Jordan on snowy days, where the country shuts down.
Here, life simply went on. To my surprise, The Washington Post was delivered right in front of our doorstep and on time. In and around our neighborhood people quickly cleared the snow off their cars and headed to work, driving on already-cleared roads. At work, everyone arrived almost on time and completed their tasks as expected. At the end of the workday, I took the bus home and arrived at my usual time. The mail was there, delivered on time just like any other day.
You see, I found this unusual. In Jordan, when snows arrives, things are handled differently. The entire country shuts down with the arrival of the first snowflakes. Naturally, in my home country we stay inside during snowy days and enjoy the time off. Here things are not that fun. The idea of "closing down the shop" during snowy days is not taken for granted. Sigh!
More snow is expected to arrive at week’s end. Although its arrival will likely not equate to a day off, I still wholeheartedly welcome it. When it comes to snow, I’m still a child. I simply adore it.
