We leave for Egypt tomorrow.  The timing couldn’t be more perfect.  Our neighbours are having a wedding; the music started this morning at 7:30.  It’s a holiday today.  I was hoping to sleep in, but that isn’t going to happen – not with the blang blang blang blang going on.  I thought it was loud, and then I opened my balcony door.  I immediately shut it.  Shortly after, someone discovered the volume control and cranked it even more.  And guess what?  They are building a shelter on their roof, which means only one thing – the wedding will be taking place at the house.  No peace. 

Yay, Egypt! 

I’m stressed about packing for the kids.  I don’t want to forget anything.  I’ve already started setting things aside, and I’ll start packing today, slowly, so that I can think through every single scenario. 

I’m not worried about the kids feeling abandoned or scared while we are away. Lola has woken up for the past 3 mornings asking if today is finally the day that she gets to sleep over at her friend’s house.  Her shoulders slump in resigned submission when I tell her that, no, we still have a few days left.  I can’t wait to see her face tomorrow morning!  Not only is she going to have a great adventure at her friend’s house, but it’s the first day of school.

Yes, you read that correctly.  It is September 26th, and finally Lola will be returning to school since June 4th.  The Holy month of Ramadan ended early September and then a week of celebration followed, so I understand the initial delay.  The kindergarten (or nursery, whatever your preference) section was delayed further because of playground renovations.  Why start the renovations at the beginning of the break in June when there are months to complete the job?  No, let’s start the project just before the opening of the school.  That makes sense.  Granted, it’s only kindergarten, but dang it.  That is a long break. 

Oh! They turned down the music.

Wait.  No.  It’s back up again.