Hot Springs

We had our final adventure today. We went to the hot springs that were about 40 minutes from King's Academy - very very hot and a very very hot day. Tomorrow we will present our project to other Jordanian teachers and officials. Then we leave on Sunday for Seattle and arrive home at 1 in the morning on Monday. Back to school on Tuesday.

The tomorrows after - I am very anxious to see what is in store for me.

Irbid

In the van again, this time we went north to Irbid. We were able to visit Wasfi Al Tal Industrial School where Mustafa teaches radio and television maintenance. It was a pleasure to meet some of Mustafa's students, see his classroom, and tour the school. It is obvious why he is the winner of the Queen Rania Award. We also visited a museum in Irbid and went to the souk where we purchased spices. Mustafa then hosted a dinner at his home. It was exciting to finally meet his wife, children, parents, and brothers. One picture shows Mustafa's mother and father.

I am anxious to see what the days ahead hold.

Ma'an

We were in the van at 6:30 a.m. for a four hour drive to Ma'an. Our day started with a visit to Ma'an Secondary School for the Girls. The headmistress, Salfa Abu Tayeh, is a Bedouin and comes from a family of thirteen siblings four of which have PhDs. She spoke about the Bedouin culture which treats men and women as equals. She has traveled to the United States and has a brother who lives in Seattle. Her name, Salfa means powerful woman. She is powerful and an inspiration to the students at her school. One photograph (left to right) shows Rabia, Andy, and Salfa Abu Tayeh.

We were also honored guests at Rabia's home for a traditional Jordanian dinner. We had mansaf made with goat, rice, shrak (a thin bread), and a yogurt sauce. Rabia's friends and extended family were invited to share the delicious meal.

I am very excited to see what tomorrow will bring.

Ein Jaloot School

We had the opportunity to visit Maysoun's school, a secondary school for girls, and one of the best public schools in Jordan. Every morning begins with saluting the flag, singing national songs, exercises, and prayers. Then students have three classes followed by a morning break. Then students have three or four more classes. We saw a biology class, computer lab, English lab, robot lab, and math class. The staff also made us a delicious lunch. It was obvious that these students were well taught and hard working.

Madaba

Madaba is a bustling market town and filled with beautiful mosaics dating from the 6th to the 8th century. The mosaic in the picture shows two fish, one swimming away from the Dead Sea. Tomorrow? I can't wait.

Maysoun and her mother

Manal's Family