We realise our previous blog entry dates back to almost a month ago, and we feel it is time to give some updates on how we have been the last couple of weeks, in particular the gradual changes that have started to occur.
First of all, we have witnessed a wonderful change of temperature and climate. Less humidity, lower temperatures and a nice easy breeze have started to replace the harsh summer heat. As of now (early November), day temperatures reach 31-34 degrees Celsius, and in the evening and early morning it’s about 28°C. After work, we often go to the swimming pool or the beach for a quick swim. It is wonderful to come home from a hectic work day and step into an entirely different world of leisure in just five minutes. After our last trip to the mountains (see previous blog entry) we have not been away to explore other parts of the country. Instead we enjoy our weekends spending time at the Club or on the Camp, for example going for long walks. On these occasions, it is very likely you will bump into someone you know, such as our new friends Stijn and Corine:
A second gradual change is particularly observed by Marike, and concerns Gideon turning into a cool beach dude! Every time when there’s a strong wind, Gideon drops his work or whatever keeps him busy (telling his colleagues “hey, there’s wind, have a good weekend!”), jumps into his car and drives off to the beach in Azaiba to go kitesurfing. This should not be exaggerated, as there usually is no wind in Muscat and kitesurfing is still only possible on a rare occasion (perhaps the winter months are more promising). Nevertheless, this is making Gideon very very happy. And driving to the beach in the old banger Jeep Cherokee of 13 years old that he recently bought is only adding to the fun! Pictures will follow!
A rather sudden and not-so-gradual change is the fact that we have found a home! After three months in transit accommodation, we got the news that we can move by mid-November. Our belongings (waiting patiently in storage) will be delivered and we will have more space to move around! We are very happy with the house as it is spacious and it has a garden and two terraces. The house is off-camp but in an adjacent neighbourhood, located less than a kilometre away from our current home. Here are some first impressions:
And finally, gradual changes are of course happening all the time to little Matilda. As she is turning six months (!) next week, she is no longer the tiny baby girl…she is happily tucking into solid food. Sweet potato is her favourite. Being a ‘mature’ baby now, she thinks it’s only cool to lie on her belly, not on her back. Also, she is regularly doing leg exercises by trying to stand. And with a little help from her nanny Nida, she is enjoying all of this very much!
