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Published: April 21st 2009
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Variety of Reading Materials
Cathy, look where your book ended up. (Note, be careful when you lend Ted a book.) I’m sorry I’m getting a bit spotty about doing these blogs. My days have been really long and I was afraid that if I stayed up any longer, I’d have to wake up before I went to sleep. Doing all-nighters may be OK when you are 19 but when you are let’s say considerably older than 19 it’s not such a good idea. Falling asleep when you are doing a briefing or snoring during a presentation is somewhat frowned upon. Go figure.
Despite some software and procedural issues, I really am enjoying myself. I’ve already had some interesting conversations with the Saudi participants and I’m enjoying the work. Also, even though I have yet to get out of the Aramco compound this time around, it’s very pleasant here. One thing unique is that you hear constant cooing from the Desert Pigeons (which I would have called “doves”). It’s very soothing and peaceful.
Today we had the first traditionally dressed woman I’ve spoken to. When I say “traditionally dressed” I don’t mean just dressed in black. I mean completely dressed in black with her face completely covered except for a two inch gap for her eyes. Of course, some women
Bahrain
It always seems to be evening when I'm in Bahrain. This is from the airport in Bahrain. I love the architecture. are dressed like that here at Aramco, but I have never had a chance to talk to them. This is particularly true because I know that would be improper. However, in the context of a work situation, it’s OK of course.
When she arrived this morning, I was careful not to extend my hand because touching is not permitted. However, I screwed up anyway. In my official tour of the SAC Center, I point out where the prayer room is. As I was doing this, Lou-Anne was standing behind this woman waving to me and mouthing “nooooooooooooo.” I then realized that women don’t pray with the men. I later asked Lou-Anne where they pray and the answer is that there is a prayer rug in every office and that they pray alone in their office. So that would be lesson #5612 for me. Oh well.
She seems nice, but it’s really disconcerting to have a conversation with someone you can’t see except for her eyes. I did notice, with pleasure, that I could tell when she laughed at my jokes in the presentations because you can see it in a person’s eye expressions. (Right now, I’m sure that
Aramco Compound
I love this tree! my two daughters are having trouble believing that
anyone would laugh at my jokes! Perhaps there will be more time to try to talk to her one-on-one tomorrow. No one seems to know if it would be offensive if I asked her if I could take a photo of her, so I don’t think I’ll ask.
My wife mentioned that it’s actually Spring in Minnesota right now, so I told the Participants today that the flowers will be up soon and that we’ll enjoy at least 4 hours before winter begins again. I think they knew I was kidding. I was asked today how far St. Paul is from Minneapolis and to describe the differences between the two cities. I tried to be objective, but hey, it’s not my fault that Minneapolis is better than St. Paul (cheap shot).
It's almost 7 pm and I can’t wait to find out the nightly themed meal at the Dining Hall. However, I was told to be less food-obsessive in my blogs, so I’m trying. But less face it. When you travel, that’s definitely a highlight (at least it is for me).
I took some photos of the coaches and
Adrian - From London
These are photos of the PDI Consultants here on site. some other miscellaneous photos around Aramco which I’ve uploaded.
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eve
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Ted--nice to have an update (and pics too)! You MUST keep writing about the food! Are you planning any trips away from the compound soon?