Almost a UAE resident

Its been a week since my last blog so I thought I'd write a quick update -

 I went to get my eye scan, blood test, and chest x-ray today.  These are all required to obtain my Residence Visa for the UAE.  The whole process of getting all of this done was relatively painless, but a bit overwhelming.  The closest thing I can equate it to would be someone from outside the US walking into a DMV in the States having no real clue about how things work - not impossible and it happens all the time, but can be a bit overwhelming I'm sure.  Luckily I was equipped with all the necessary information and materials, but still felt a little lost amongst the masses of women and children.  I have to admit that I was nervous about my paperwork changing hands quite a few times and getting thrown into the huge stack of all of the other women's papers, but there seemed to be a workable system of organization going on.  After my health certificate is awarded I will receive my passport with my Residence Visa and will then venture to the DMV over here to get my driver's license. 

We are also hoping to have Tank here very soon.  The poor guy hasn't had the easiest time getting ready to come over here.  Right before Christmas we discovered that he needed to get an updated Rabies vaccination and then a few days ago found out he also needs to have another distemper shot before he can begin the shipping process.  Thankfully Brian's mom will be able to take him to get his shot and then he will be ready to go!  We are so excited to have him here and to see what he thinks of the swimming pool.  Something tells me we will be investing in one of those doggie life vests :)

Some other interesting things about life here that I forgot to include in my last blog:
Lets hope this doesn't catch on in the US - our car is equipped with a "beeper" that goes off incessantly if you drive over 120 kph (approx. 73 mph).  This means that anytime you are driving down the highway and go above 120 you will here a ridiculous beeping that will not stop until your speed goes below 120...talk about annoying!!!  Everytime I see someone speeding I keep thinking, "Man how is that beeping not completely bugging the crap outta that person!"  Can you imagine going over 73 mph and having your car beep at you?!  Like I said, I hope cars in the US don't "gain" this feature.

This tidbit is more for any female considering visiting here....beware of the hair "crud".  Apparently there is something about the water here that causes your hair to collect this gross residue the first few times you take a shower.  It feels like someone sprayed half a bottle of hairspray onto the top of your head and then took a blow dryer to it.  Luckily some of the other women I've spoken with here have had similar experiences and assured me that it would go away after a while (which it has) and that its nothing that a good cleansing  or detoxifying shampoo won't cure.  Just a warning....

This weekend we will be heading to Al Ain, a city located within the Abu Dhabi Emirate for their annual air show. Its supposed to be an exciting event so we will hopefully have lots of pictures to post after the weekend.