An Overnighter

A rainy departure early yesterday morning.

Over land, through clouds (which made for quite a bumpy ride) and then our arrival in Dubai where my husband had several business meetings.

That meant there wasn't time to do much.

It was recommended that we have lunch at Dim Tai Fung located in Dubai Mall so we headed there after his first business meeting.  Since I didn't have breakfast before we left, I thoroughly enjoyed every single bite of my mushroom & veg dumplings and vegetable chow mein.

We also popped in to our favorite bookstore, Kinokuniya.

Started reading this book last night.

Weather was nice so we made several rounds of the hotel grounds.

 It's not a large area but there's still lots of pretty and interesting things to see.

Quite a surprise to see this big guy hanging out by the pool.

And it's the only place I've seen pink dragonflies.

Isn't it lovely?

Now we are back home.

My son in Denver is currently experiencing very snowy conditions, so if you are in the midst of a winter storm, warm wishes are being sent your way.

Happy Tuesday!

Crafting at Dama Cafe

This past week I scouted out another new to me cafe for our crafty meet-up.

Nine of us gathered there this morning for crochet and knitting.

The cafe is named after a game similar to draughts or checkers.

There are different rules and names for it in different countries.

I'm currently working on a very simple ripple.

Happy Saturday!

Scenes from the Souk

Earlier this month we were in Jerusalem to visit my husband's family.

Damascus Gate, main entrance to the Old City

We usually go once a year, but after our February visit, my husband's aunt fell and broke her hip.  She had surgery, a stay in the hospital and then time in a rehabilitation facility.  Since she's blind and 88 years old. my husband felt the need to make sure she is doing okay, physically and emotionally.

The street where family have lived for many generations.

When spending time with family (and it is a very big family), there's always lots of sitting and catching up along with tea and coffee drinking.

Lost count of how many cups I had.

To counteract all that sitting, we would walk the city several times a day.

Early morning walk to see Aunt Ensaf.

In February it was so cold and rainy which made it a bit difficult to get around, so thankfully weather was perfect this time, if not a bit warmer than usual for the time of year.

The good weather meant there were lots and lots (and I mean lots) of tour groups in the city, so those old alleyways can get a bit crowded.

I will leave you now with scenes from the souk and be back again soon.

Fall is pomegranate season.

Have a fabulous Friday!