ChicolatesEmirates

mismas pictures June till August - under reconstruction :)

2007-08-10T06:24:00.001-07:00

City in the Jungle

2007-08-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

Yangoon - the capital of Myanmar - ex Burma...

Absolutely green, fresh, juicy, tropical city - full of palms, birds, lakes and very humble and respectful people.

Thanks to my job - one week after my trip to Nepal - I got the chance to visit Myanmar. We were accomodated in the hotel next to the King's Lake and there was amazing view directly from my room.

I have to admit - there is nothing more beautyful than greenery and fresh air - specially if you come from desert :)

We were travelling around the city with local people - visited Golden Pagoda and couple of local places with handkraft - wood.

I was enjoying Thai food :) and sweet chilli every day :) and every morning I woke up earlier just to have chance to walk through the garden, looking at squirrels and birds, enjoying morning nature. I met several monks, who were taking care of the garden and park around the lake and it made the picture of Yangoon just perfect :)

I will upload pictures ASAP :)

Mount Everest

2007-08-10T05:36:00.000-07:00

It is a little bit more than one month, when I posted my last post :)

Since that time maaaaaany things have happened:

I went for 1 week to Nepal - Katmandu and without any planning I attended trip to Himalayas on the board of small plane - Air Budda :)
It took off around 5 in the morning and within 30 minutes I had chance to see Mount Everest just couple of meters far away from me...
I can't describe that feeling...you know, I would have NEVER EVER thought that I will be there and see it...the TOP of the WORDL...
This made me think, how many weird coincedences had to happened to bring me here and see this icy beauty in the light of morning sun...I didn't plan it - and at the same time, there are so many people they dream about this, searching for money and vacation just to get there...and I got it just like that...without any special effort...going from the 5 star hotel by privat 4x4 on the airport, sit into the little plain and ... just wait to see it...
I even though that actually I don't deserve it...seriously - I found this unfair, that I'm experiencing something so amazing withou ANY effort.
You know - you are trying so many times so hard to get something and you are facing so many difficulties to move just a little little bit towards you goal...and at the same time, some things falls into your hands just like that...

When I told my mum, she was thinking I'm making fun of her :) and I ended up saying - eeh, trip was nothing speciall - just saw Everest :) but I guess everybody knows, that this was awesome experience...

Unfortunately I didn't have that much chance to "feel the country"...I mean going through Katmandu, eat local food and observe peoples life...I was travelling with other people from our company and they didn't feel comfortable and I coudn't go alone.

There was one incident, what made me feel really stupid...Our guide wanted to take us to local restaurant.If you see the country, you just can't expect luxury of Dubai and you have to set you expectation pretty low, but Nepali people are so humble and ground to earth, that you actually don't need fancy place to eat to really enjoy it. So, we entered local restaurant,run by family.They saw us and immediately started to prepare table. Place was dark, but coisy and small. Water was already on the way, but my collegues just turned and left without saying anything. I was surprised and looked on faces of the family members. All of them were so shocked - you can see how much they don't know what happened. They were standing - frozen -in the middle of welcome, eyes with question what did THEY DO WRONG...probably somebody did something HORRIBLE. They were really afraid...I was left there - having no idea what to say...I was able to wisper something like :sukria and was trying to smile with kind of apology on my face...but inside I was really embarrased by behaviour of "my people". This is big des-respect of local habits and culture and I guess nobody has right to behave like that in other country. I was very upset because of this...

I felt sorry for this family and at the same time it help me to make picture about character of some people I was travelling with.

Just to think about that again and again to see in from of me faces of these poor people - make me feel stupid...

Upsssss

2007-07-06T12:40:00.000-07:00

time is flying...

I'm really sorry I was not able to update my blog for such a long time...

The thing is, that our company blocked this web, so I can't log in and therefore I can't give you updates regulary...

Just to make it fast and easy :)

I'm doing fine, my husband and all 2 kids are also fine :) :) :)

No - seriously :) I'm very happy in my life in these days there is only one thing I'm not happy at all and it is my job. Actually my boss :) to be exact.
But since she was out of office for 2 weeks, I had BLAST :) and now I have to survive only one week and then I WILL be out of the country also :)

I'm quite excited, because there are 2 business trips planned - 4 days in Nepal - Kathmandu and 5 days in Burma-Yangoon :)
Well, I know it will be more about airport -> hotel -> interivews -> hotel -> airport, but I believe, I will be able to at least look around of the hotel area :) to get a little bit of "smell" of that place :)

I'm really looking forward to get out of desert to green area, mountains and some nature :)

AAAAAAAAAAND

I'm planning to go home :) for vacation - 14 amazing days :)
Planned timing is to leave Dubai on 22.8. and come back on 5.9. just before Ramadan starts :) so I should get back to work in easy mood :)

Talking about work - I'm looking for job - new job and new boss :) and also higher responsibilities.
It is time to move on with my career and since I'm planning to go home in 2 years, I should really make a move :)

Regarding my social life - there is nothing I can complain about - I'm meeting my friends, having fun and enjoying beach :)

Recently I had just amazing time with closer friends on Music Festival. The top of the evening was Laurin Hill, but unfotunately she got strong cold and her amazing voice was gone.
She was singing anyway - even she was hardly able to speak.
Many people left, but I was happy we stayed and enjoyed special atmosphere...all of us were singing with her and had space enough to dance and the music just got you :)

I believe - being there - with special people around - listening to her and seeing her effort - feeling free and happy - this will stay in my mind forever.

I had really nice time...

Now I feel a little bit guilty, because some of my friends are going through very difficult time...and I can't help them, I can't be with them...I just know what is happening. So, how come, I can have such a nice days and time, when they can't...
They are not worse or better than me, so we should be on the same line...

It is just couple of days ago - when I was discussing this with Ana...

We were talking about life - playing "fair play" game or not and based on what kind of rules.

I just don't know where I got this from, that life is fair. Maybe from my childhood, when I believed in fairy tales and magic :) That I was brought up in a way to believe, that bad things will get back to me and good things will be recognized and rewarded.

But this is not happening!

And I still believe in it...I still believe in balance in life and some kind of higher justice...

But it is getting harder and harder...

Let's see, how long it will last in me...

Reason, Season ect.

2007-06-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends,

I just got email today from one person, I met 6 months ago...just for couple of days...
His name is Mark, he is funky Filipino guy - young, crazy and working for our company in KSA. He was admin support for recruitment trip in Indonesia and we had really fun...

Just 3 days - and we became close friends...very easily...haven't seen each other since than...just sending emails and sms time to time.

At the same time, I had to say buy to VERY close friend from the office. Gigi - Turkish girl with temperament, brain and heart on the right place - funny, smart, professional, honest and brave.
We join company together - the same day, the same position. I learnt a lot from her - talking about work, but also as person.
We went together through good times and bad times and spent together more time than her with her husband :) (thanks to our long working hours :) )
Now she is gone...back in her home country-to take rest, relax, enjoy family atmosphere and generally to get better...
I lost my soul-mate...good colleague...kind of older sister...

I told her - I'm not saying bye bye, because I'm going to visit you...and I'm really going :) to Turkey :)
Well, I don't know when, but it will be soon :) that's what I know :)

At the same time - I have still good friends here in Dubai and was in contact with my family recently...and all this lead me to think a little bit about following email I received (from Mark):

People come into your life for a reason, a seasonor a lifetime.
When you know which one it is, youwill know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usuallyto meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a god send and they are. They are therefor the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrong doing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die.Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON,because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season!

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons,things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down will probably will.... You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder everytime.... You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken.... You'll fight with your best friend and you'll blame a new love for things an old one did.... You'll cry coz time is passing to fast and you'll eventually lose someone you love.

So take too many pics, laugh too much, take time to look up at the stars, sing loudly, feel the cold wind, smile a lot, and love like you've never been hurt coz every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back....

Being SILENT...

2007-05-13T06:19:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced a moment in your life when you just ran out of words and you go...

S i l e n t???

Let me assist you in recalling...

...the moment when you left your home for the first time and you look back at your parents who are worried that their son/daughter are leaving them yet happy that their child took the first step towards independence.
... ...the moment when the girl/boy you like most.. smiled back at you!
You don't say anything... you just smile back...

... the moment when you get better marks than you expected... those "numb" moments of ecstasy n surprise "is that true?"...

... the moment when you are parting with your old friend(s) and the train has just started... and you are standing on the door of the wagon... waving "bye-bye" with your heart beating fast...

... the moment after the HR manager has just called you and told you," You are through! Congrats!"

... the moment when you sit alone in your room after having told everyone that you cleared that exam you prepared for 6 months!!

You can go on remembering your "special" moments!

I had always wondered why I never said anything to myself at those moments... as if it was "understood"... happiness, joy, pain... all feelings just flowed ceaselessly in the 'years' that passed in those flash moments!

They say... the best way to communicate is through "silence".

Love. Joy. Grief. Surprise. Anger. Hope. Expectations. Support.

Can you imagine the importance of a silent moment in a song?? When Bryan Adams stops for a while along with music, before he goes on in his husky voice...

... Please forgive me. I can't stop loving you!

Ever had those moments when you thought you were tired enough that you reach for your bed after dinner... but find yourself wide awake looking at the roof of your room silently...

But you sure are 'thinking'.... those moments of self-talk are the most important in our lives. Those moments when we listen to our own hearts!

Those promises... those decisions... those are the moments when we make our destinies!

Next time you go silent... listen carefully to what your heart is saying... listen to its joy...listen to its pain.. listen to its fears... listen to its desires..

Don't make it shut up and go off to sleep...

LISTEN TO THAT VOICE and ACCEPT EVERYTHING IT SAYS!

That voice alone can lead you to the abode of peace that your sleep lacks... peace that awaits you!
Be in touch with your true self... be silent once a day, every day!

Silence Speaks More Than Ur Words

GOOD NEWS !

2007-04-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

Fist of all I'm back from Jordan :)

I'm back in one piece, full of amazing memories and 2 CDs of pictures :)

Next blog post will be about my vacation :)

Second - our company revised working hours and we got shorter working time in the office!!!
Isn't it amazing to come back from vacation and go home earlier?

Third - I'm going home in summer :)

well - if for good or vacation, this is not sure yet, but I'm going home...so far it seems it will be only for vacation, because there are some positive perspectives in our company. But since I'm here for 2 years, I already know - you actually never know :)

Fourth - that will be too much for one post, wouldn't be? :)

What about your good news?

Picture of the Month

2007-04-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

we got this, while we were roaming with Evicka around the Creek :)

no commets :)

Reflection

2007-04-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Upss...another month is gone :)

Everything happened so fast!

Evicka was here for 4 days - veeeeeeeery intensive 4 days :) We almost didn't sleep and were visiting everything possible, so she will have colorful portfolio of memories:

We started in the Mosque - with presentation about islam, than we went to Jumeirah beach for short walk and visited Madinat Jumeirah (really nice shopping mall). Than we were observing crazy construction of palm islands and Dubai Marina area, took picture of Ski place in Mall of Emirates (the biggest shopping Mall on the world) and to complete nice trip, we got stuck for more than hour in que in Deira City Centre - waiting for taxi to get home :)

Day after was more relaxed - sleeping, walking around the creek, we enjoyed nice hour on the boat to see historical part of Dubai & museum & gold & spice souq. Evening was in "Easter mood", since there were parents of friend of mine - from Slovakia and we were eating and drinking home, central European food and of course following necessary "easter beating" and "water pouring" :)

Well - to enjoy UAE in all possible ways, we managed thanks to my another friend to get out of Dubai and went to Fujairah - mountains, beach, historical places and mniameee food and great evening in sheesha place next to the creek was the best end of the day.

The last day with Evicka was full of new things for me - we went to Al Ain, emirate full of green gardens and flowers - thanks to good visibility we had amazing view from mountains all around. And to make the last day perfect - we were cooking for dinner "bramboraky" with some filling of chicken&mashrooms&vegetable.

But the fact, that Evicka was here was not only about running around UAE and feeding our stomachs...for me it was about feeling home...able to talk in my mother language...

Since we haven't seen each other almost 2 years - it was reflection on my UAE experience, on my life generally.

We were talking a lot about us, about our friends and people we know and of course also about our future. We were laughing together, we were crying together, we had fun and serious conversation...

And the most important was, it was like Evicka never left...like we haven't seen each other just for a while...

Yep, we are older, more mature and each of us had to cope with different things in different ways, but still - we are the same in our hearts...and thanks to her connection with other friends, I had impression we are here all of us - not only me and her.

I'm really happy Evicka was here and she left piece of her here - I don't think she "again" forgot something :) I mean, she brought here for me a little bit of home (beside bottle of Fernet and Studentska pecet) :)

Hmm - she actually forgot here her sweatshirt, but we were able to get it back on time :)

Thank you, Evi :) REALLY THANKS and let's go to China together!

Chico

Btw...

2007-03-22T06:03:00.000-07:00

There are people in our office, who are investing cca 1 hour per day into discussion about diet.

Woah! That's drives me crazy...I personally believe, that these people really don't have to be worried about their shapes, since they have probably the same weight as me, but are 3 heads taller...Second thing is, that if I understand it well - only talking doesn't help :)

Since this topic seems to be never-ending and other people in the office are getting annoyed by this, somebody sent to those people following email (I swear, that it was not me!!! and if I know WHO was it, I would kiss this person :))))

HEALTH QUESTION & ANSWER SESSIONQ :

Q:I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?

A :Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q : Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?

A :You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafyvegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.

Q :Should I reduce my alcohol intake?

A :No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!

Q :How can I calculate my body / fat ratio?

A :Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.

Q :What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?

A :Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!

Q :Aren't fried foods bad for you?

A :YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!!... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q :Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?

A :Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.

Q :Is chocolate bad for me?

A :Are you crazy?HELLO. Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!

Q :Is swimming good for your figure?

A :If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.

Q :Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?

A :Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have hadabout food and diets.And remember: "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO, What a Ride"

What's going on...

2007-03-22T03:02:00.000-07:00

Yaaaaaj, long time, right?

Btw. how are you enjoying March, guys? Spring is coming, love is all around...Easter holidays are knocking on the door...

I miss a little bit observing melting snow and little green pieces of plants trying to fight with rest of winter...you can smell fresh cold air on your face, but sun is warm already...tickling you on your nose :)

I used to enjoy spring 2x per year :) because my university town was a little bit warmer than my home village. So I was able to breath spring atmoshpere in Karvina first and when it was almost over, it went to Sobotin and had one more chance to enjoy "wake up" of Mother Nature again :) (btw. I'm not sure if "Mother Nature" exist in english, so I'm sorry if it looks weird)

Here in Dubai you can't feel it...well, it is getting warmer and warmer. It is already 25 C at 7:15 in the morning (I'm checking this when I'm walking to the office). But since I'm still able to walk - it is cool :)

In my country - we have something like "Spring cleaning" - it means BIG cleaning everywhere - house, personal life, life style...it is symbol of being ready for new life...Yep - kind of milestone for somebody, who is into New Years Resolution.

So, I was cleaning also trying to organize myself and make some plans...

1. I arranged visa for my friend Evicka :) and she is COMIIIIIIING!!!! first weekend in April! I just can't wait that day :)

2. I booked my ticket to Jordan! - I'm going to spend there one amazing week! Travelling around and meeting other friends, visiting PETRA (my dream since childhood), Aqabba, of course Amman and Jerash :) and I have to check, how much dead is Dead See :)

3. I signed in to Kick Box classes and I have to say, that our trainer is really cool :), tough guy, who helps us to get fit. I'm seriosly enjoying these classes - it is the best way how to relax - forget about everything, being focused only on the spot and kicking and boxing and sweating :) music is loud and keeps you in rythm - simply AWESOME! :)

4. I went also with my friends into BellyDancing class - it is actually more about fitness and dancing. Ehhh - I think I'm good dancer, but all these moves are so funny and new to me, that I look like piece of wood :) I was wondering HOW our teacher can MOVE with THIS part of her body ?!!! And I was laughing so much whole class :) Really good relaxation :)

5. Regarding some recent social activities - my life was in last 2 months...interesting :) - going out with my landlords (Global Village market) - arranging B-Day surprises for my friends (Nadine was the BEST!), visiting friends and trying to get more concrete picture about my carreer :) and I also celebrated St.Patric's Day - Irish tradition - everything was green, Irish music all around, smiling people with beer - well, life is great in such a moment :)

Actually on this place I discovered something :) I took picture of friend of mine, just to show him, how do I see him from my point of view (I mean thanks to my size...) and he did the same for me...have a look - this is really funny :)))

I miss you, guys :)

2007-02-04T03:24:00.000-08:00

Well, this is not about my czech friends :)

This is about "my" trainees...

Carl Ross Dean, Canadian trainee number 1 at our LC, become so much part of our lifes...
Carl, I miss your: "but I'm Canadian and everybody loves me" :)
Always full of positive energy, big guy with big smile and big heart...

Guilherme, Brasilian who learnt how to speak czech - sometimes we made fun of him and were telling him, that he is actually not important...he is just number in our database :o)
"Klaro, staci jen malo a budeme par..." I will never forget his favourite song and pictures from family rice plantage :)

Nicolas Gagne Cote - Canadian musician, who created own CD during his internship and was using blanket from dorms instead of sleeping bag :o) and getting everywhere on in-line skates.
When we saw each other last time, he told me, that he is not crying, that it is raining...
I know it was not raining and it was one of the most beautiful morning walks I have ever had in Karvina :)

They are coming this year to Europe...wanted to meet...I'm not sure if I'll be able to make it, so I'm thinking of them and miss them :)

That's it.

spray paint art 3.wmv

2007-01-27T20:53:00.000-08:00


Spray paint artist from Portorož, Slovenia doing sci-fi paintings in less then 10 min. You can find more about artist and his art on www.sprej.com

Get Organic :)

2007-01-22T00:54:00.000-08:00

You know what?I was observing what are we eating in our office...It didn't come just like that...people were complaining for longer time, that they don't know "what to eat"... and were complaining about quality of fast food products...

I'm usually preparing my lunch and snacks at home, but some inspiration would be good...and since I'm dealing with brand focused on ORGANIC products,I did small research and there are some small tips :)

I even found some projects where is buying of organic product connected with projects contributing to development of poor countries - something like - buy our chocolate and contribute to "goat project" in Africa...

There is one more interesting page - where some group of people were measuring how much organic product can be actually organic :) They were focused also on chocolate, but they included not only way of planting&processing, but also packaging materials & taste :o)

I discovered new world :o) so if you are curious also - feel free to check at least following links :)

http://www.organicfood.co.uk

http://www.organicconsumers.org

http://www.love-organic-food.com

Thirteen Superfoods
Ever wondered what the very best foods are for healthy living? Opinions may differ, but Michael van Straten is the UK’s most respected naturopath, and these are the foods that he recommends we enjoy…

1 Apples
Pectin and vitamin C reduce cholesterol; pectin protects against pollution by eliminating heavy metals; malic and tartaric acids relieve indigestion and breakdown fats; traditional with cheese, duck and goose; two a day helps arthritis, rheumatism or gout; grated apple stops diarrhoea.

2 Avocado Pears
Potassium rich, for fatigue, depression and poor digestion; vitamins A, B, C and E, so an anti-cancer food; healthy monounsaturated oil; stimulates production of collagen; eat for circulation, skin and fertility. Ignore all rumours that this nutritional powerhouse is fattening.

3 Bananas
Perfect fast food with potassium, zinc, iron, folic acid, calcium, B6 and fibre. Good for digestion, menstrual difficulties; essential for athletes; perfect food for old and young. With apples, rice and dry toast they make up the BRAT diet - the ideal treatment for sickness and diarrhoea.

4 Cabbage
Iron, chlorophyll, vitamin C, sulphur compounds and healing mucilaginous substances. Powerfully anti-cancer; vital for anaemia; stomach inflammation and ulcers; protective against stress, infection and heart disease. Best eaten slightly steamed.

5 Carrots
Super-rich in betacarotene - one supplies enough for a day; anti-cancer, especially of the bowel; pureed for infant diarrhoea; juiced for liver problems; also contains vitamins C and E for circulatory disease, for chest infections, skin and eye problems. Eat at least two or three times a week lightly cooked.

6 Chicken Soup
Researchers have found a special sulphur compound in chicken soup that really does protect against throat and chest infections. Protein in the soup is easily absorbed, so it’s perfect invalid food. Low immunity, chronic fatigue and sexual dysfunction may all be aggravated by poor protein absorption, so chicken soup could be the answer.

7 Flax Seeds
These seeds and their oil are the richest source of Omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. They’re heart protective, control cholesterol levels, help prevent some forms of cancer and improve brain function. The seeds are a powerhouse of other nutrients including vitamin E, manganese and plant fibre. They can help in the prevention of heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, asthma and other allergies.

8 Garlic
The king of healing plants. Modern science proves it reduces cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, stops blood from clotting and improves the circulation. It’s antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-cancer, and good for chest infections and stomach bugs too. Eat at least a clove each day.

9 Oats
Supply protein, polyunsaturated fats, B vitamins, calcium, potassium, magnesium, silicon and vitamin E. They’re easily digested and soothing to the digestive tract. Oats help depression and reduce cholesterol - a daily bowl can lower levels by 20%. They also help regulate sugar metabolism so they’re good for diabetics and oat fibre keeps the bowels regular. They are the best and cheapest of all breakfast cereals.

10 Oily Fish
Oily fish are the only source of all the essential fatty acids. These are vital during pregnancy and breast feeding for the proper development of the brain in babies and infants. In children and adults they maintain brain function and the oils can help in the treatment of dyslexia and ADHD. They’re also the most important source of vitamin D, essential for strong bones and many hormone functions. Great for the relief of arthritis.

11 Onions
Onions protect the circulatory system and are a powerful antibiotic. They’re good for chest, stomach and urinary infections, and their diuretic activity helps with arthritis, rheumatism and gout. A recent study in Newcastle gave a traditional fry-up breakfast to volunteers, but half of them got fried onions too; the onion eaters’ blood was much less likely to clot than the others - research in America shows that half a raw onion a day raises the amount of good fats in the blood by 30%.

12 Potatoes
Even when boiled or baked this wonderful vegetable is a source of fibre, B vitamins, minerals and enough vitamin C to keep scurvy at bay. Baked in their skins are best as lots of nutrients, especially potassium and fibre, are in the skin. At less than a calorie per gram, cheap and very filling they’re good news for slimmers, and all the bad things you’ve read about potatoes are unfair and wrong, unless you only want to eat chips.

13 Soya
Soya beans, tofu and other soy products are a vital source of plant hormones called phytoestrogens. These protect against breast and prostate cancer, hormonal imbalances, PMS and menopausal problems including osteoporosis. Though a normal part of the daily diet in Asia, they’re not consumed nearly enough in the rest of the world.

Happy Feet

2007-01-15T23:02:00.001-08:00

I’m BACK :o) and I FEEL GOOD!

(I really LOVE the song: I feel good :o) )

Yep... I’m back in our desert :o)

I didn’t met many friends back in CR and I didn’t call to all of them – because I was too happy to be with my family, that this feeling completely ate me :o)
But I managed at least to talk to some of them and became this way kind of Christmas gift :o)
It made me feel so much like home :o) and it made me think about my flight back to UAE.

I had my doubts before my flight…I was not sure if I really want to leave…but I decided to go.

I wanted to come back, because I have very close friends here and didn’t want to disappear from their life just like that…
I have still commitments here and want to clear the table before I go…
And I’d like to also finally somehow ENJOY life here J

So, I’m back :o)

Yes, I came back to say Good Bye, but there is still some time to enjoy whatever is possible :o)

Currently I’m enjoying my new place :0)
I’m staying with girl from Japan and Yemen and young Iranian couple.

Yesterday we randomly brought all our food in the kitchen in the same time, so we end up eating bites and pieces of everything and discussing “cooking” tricks :o). Honestly – I had many mniamee things...I would just think 2x before I would try again Kaio’s Japanese tea…

I would say, decision to come back also helps me to value more my time – to set priorities about quality of life I’m living.

And I’m happy for that :o)

I’m simply happy and I feel good!

Btw. have you seen "Happy Feet" ? It is absolutely AMAZING movie full of music and fun and...that's it :o)

photo show - office

2006-11-29T21:09:00.000-08:00

Making choice in my bubble

2006-11-26T01:31:00.000-08:00

Each of us is making choice every single day...
about food
about work
about friends
about weekends
and of course each choice brings some benefits and costs at the same time...

I made my choice this weekend...I decided to spent one day with my friend...because:
1. I really enjoy time with him, because of conversation we have, similar sense of humor and I always learn something new and we have lot's of fun
2. I seriously think he needed some company to avoid feeling being lonely (and everyone of us knows very well, how awful feeling it is)
3. I wanted to spent more time with him, because I felt I need it also
4. He offered me help by taking me to the optics (I had troubles with my contact lenses and needed eye check urgently)

What happened was, that later on we went to visit some other people and in mean time he got sick (maybe the Subway sandwich was not the right thing to eat...). We were actually thinking, that we would have to stay over night at his friends place, because situation with his stomach didn't look positive...Luckily later on things went well and I got home after midnight.

Therefore I was not able to attend Argentinean dinner (Romi was cooking with her family) and was not able to join people on GoodBye party for Sara. I called both of them day after to tell them sorry for not joining their events and explained them reasons behind & arranged face to face evening with Sara in the nearest possible day (on Monday ;o)).
I got a call from my other friends, that they got stuck in the sand on their trip in desert, but I didn't have available Jeep or any other strong car to help them at that moment and was cca 90 km far away. So I suggested couple of names, they can call and hoped that they will be ok. I called them up a little bit later to check, if they managed to get some people to help and they did, so I didn't worry anymore.

BUT
I didn't know that there were only 4 people on GoodBye party...
I didn't know that it took 3 hours to get the car out of the sand...

The day after one person was very upset...and made me feel bad for my decision...and I felt sorry, that my reasons didn't sound "reasonable" enough and I'm blamed for something, what actually at the end of the day was not my fault...Now it looks, that I don't care about my friends and I'm thinking only about myself...because I made my choice...Because I decided, that being with my friend is more important for both of us than going for the party (if I know, that I can see the person later) or dinner (if I know, that there are many people coming anyway).

So I'm thinking if I'm really selfish, when I ask for understanding and trust...and I feel stupid to explain all the time, why I decided for this or that...Maybe I ask too often for this respect and people are tired of this...
Maybe I'm really selfish, because I'm living in my bubble...and I make decisions without asking other people...

I tried couple of times to ask....what is the plan for the evening - and I end up sitting at home lonely and watching TV, because I got to know too late or didn't get email or people changed their plans and I didn't feel comfortable about that...I tried to ask what is bordering people around...and they either didn't feel comfortable to talk at that moment and I' was not nearby, when the right moment came, or they simply had somebody else closer...

My bubble is growing...I have to admit, that... even if I have good friends, friendship doesn't help my budget and I have to think, before I have fun, if I can effort it - and sometimes I just don't go, because I can for the same money buy gifts for my family...I don't talk about that anymore, because I feel stupid to remind this all the time...and who would like to hang out with somebody, who "has always some comments"?

I don't spent that much time with friends during the week, because I'm usually tired or feel stupid about my troubles...I believe many of us has so many challenges in our lives, I know some of my friends are in difficult situation and in a way, I'm lucky, because I have only one person to take care of - myself...and this makes me selfish...yep - I'm probably selfish...carring little stupid troubles instead of understanding that there are people around having more serious issues in their lifes...

But my bubble is getting bigger anyway...And I'm living in and make MY decisions without others...I'm trying my best to make MY choices right and not to hurt anyone, but it is difficult...I feel like being apart more and more, but I just don't know how to break it...and in the same time I believe that everyone of us has RIGHT to have own bubble and make decisions and choices on their own.

Am I really so selfish? Or do I take things just too personally? I'm sure I'm doing something wrong...other vise I wouldn't have troubles in last couple of weeks with people they are close to me...Or is it just bad luck - being on the wrong place in wrong time and make wrong choice?
Or maybe just stupid period of time, when things went together and all of us are tired...

Maybe I should just shut up, breath deeply and enjoy the feeling, that I'm healthy, I'm going to see my family soon, I'm going through interesting experience and there are people, who love me - and with this good feeling do something for others.

...maybe as the step nr. 1 I just should STOP thinking about MY bubble...

Back to basic

2006-11-16T05:36:00.000-08:00

I was reading lines from Evicka about her morning walk and couple of things crossed my mind.

First of all - I LOVE walking SO MUCH exactly because of all reasons Evicka mentioned...

I remember - as little girl - how much I loved to go with my father in winter time from evening bus home...I was tired after training and walking through whole city to catch a bus and then again walking home...but I just loved that time. We were able to talk about everything, arguing of course :o) making each other upset or watching black winter time sky with shining stars...smelling snow and feeling cold wind. Sometimes he bought oranges and we ate them immediately with my brother and reached home with sticky faces and dirty clothes...
And I loved to go out with my grandparents - in summer - just to see, what everything changed in the park and their city...
Lately I was enjoying night walks through village with my friends - just chatting and doing nothing - because we had summer holidays...
During my studies, I didn't use bus almost at all - I was walking everywhere - either because I just wanted to get rid of stress or to wake myself up...
Or morning walks with our dog - early morning, when everything is still sleeping - going through park, sitting in wet green grass, listening birds waking up...

I was missing walking in Prague during MC term...

Here in Dubai I'm usually walking in the morning - to my office...Holly (my room-mate) drops me at her office and then it is up to me either to catch a cab or just...walk :)

One of my friend said once: "Why it is so difficult to meet new people in Dubai?" - after we realized, that we are hanging out all the time with the same people. I was thinking about that...well, we are spending so much time in "our cars" and "our rooms" and "our offices" that we are in a way getting used to - having people around but not talking to them...
I realized, that some things got changed in our office, because of reconstruction...people see each other more and they are forced to communicate more. And I realized, how many people from our office are walking also in the evening. Now I'm really looking for the end of the day - because I know, that I will walk for 15-20 mins with Delle (Kenya) and Femi (South Africa) or Jo Anne (Philippines) maybe Ridma (Sri Lanka) or Kamal (India) or Samir (India). And we have fun and talking about our countries and families, problems and happy moments...I got to know them so much more...Once we were chatting only about fruits and vegetable, what we can plant at home ;o) and animals! That was soo funny...and we started having lunch or coffee together.

I feel like finding back piece of life I had before, but lost for a while.

I'm back to my walking too, Evi...

It is different walking, but I think, it is exactly what we need in this moment...

WHY ?

2006-11-15T20:37:00.000-08:00

…because each person is the product of million different moments, a thousands states of mind, a hundred adventures, and usually two different parents…

E.Berne – What do You Say, after You Say Hello?

Office

2006-11-07T19:49:00.000-08:00

Our office is under re-construction. This was planned for March...it started in September...typically...
I personally think, that starting re-construction before Ramadan is not smart.

Workers are usually staying during the night and starting their duty, once we leave the office. Then we see each other in the morning, when they are running around with pieces of different materials and trying to clean the dust and dirtness from our tables, chairs, PC,...

Just to give you the right picture, what happend:

There were small offices inside our office, but walls were removed - so right now you can see all people and what are they doing :) and it is kind of open space office for 100 people. Some pieces of walls were not removed, or only partly, because there were many cabels build in. Other cables are just like that on the floor and people are jumping over. It looks like warehouse. My table is right now in the middle of nowhere :) and black, yellow, blue and white cable lianas are hanging around me from the sealing to the floor like in the jungle or like some kind of Christmas decoration.

Because many people are walking around - it is normal, that they are stepping on my plugs or kicking telephone connection. But I already know, which color is what, so I just shake a little bit with the right one and phone is back or PC is again working. :) You are actually becoming member of either "shaking club" or "kicking club" - depends, what kind of excercise has to be performed to get back your connection. "Kickers" are for white plastic boxes :) Nice teambuilding :)

There is one more positive point - you can hear different kind of musing from different sides - turkish, hindi, arabic, czech (of course) and some general pop. People are communicating much more - to exchange their MP3 or pictures on screen savers. It is a little bit new world.

AC is not working - well...it is working, but just sometimes in some corners. It is interesting simulation of 4 weather seasons :)

Some people got alergy and sick because of so much dust around.

I'm hoping each day, that I will come to the office and it will be over...

I feel weird, when I'm coming to the office, and workers are trying to clean my table - usually by something containing a little bir less dust than something else...and at the end, I will clean it again after they are gone.
I know they are probably doing their best - but simply they don't have right tools. If there would be proper cleaning set and clean water or vacuum cleaner, that woud make a difference. But this is only waste of energy. And they are usually tired after night work.

Please, wish us good luck, that this construction time will be over soon...

Sending greetings from our - warehouse...
(pictures later on and I'm sorry for spelling and grammar mistakes)

Milionaire in Indonesia

2006-10-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

Yep, for the first time in my life I was milonaire...for a while :) Just for couple of days...and I lost my milions in bet with my manager...

I went for 5 days to Indonesia - Jakarta, because of my job and the currency is pretty much effected by inflation, so you are paying everything in thousands Indonesian rupees (1 USD = cca 9.000,- InR). We were quite lucky, because we were able to finish all our matters within 2 days and it ment we had another 2 days off!!! Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeepeeeeeeeeee!!!
Additionally to our luck, directors of company, we were cooperating with, were very much helful and gave us car & driver and lot's of advices where to go...so...we went :)

There is nothing interesting to see in Jakarta and night life was quite dead because of Ramadan (yep - remember that Indonesia is 2nd largest muslim country). But bars and restarurants in hotels are open to all random tourists, so we were not struggeling that much :)

The first day off we spent on the way to Bandung - cca 150 km from Jakarta - place very popular because of amazing nature, tea plantations, active vulcanos all around, hot springs...Beside the fact, it was first day of, it was my last day, when I was milionaire :)
One of the most popular transportation is using Ojeks (see picture). Little motorbike-taxi. There are thousands of them, able to take you whenever you want via weirdest places you can imagine (based on experience).
So, we were enjoying amazing view on vulcanos around and greenery and fresh air and by the way we passed in our car small family travelling on the Ojek. Dad, mum and between them little baby - maybe half year old. The baby was sitting backside to his dad and facing mum's belly (at least what I was thinking...) and I made a comment about poor baby. My manager replyed, that baby is actually very happy, because was breast-feeded...NO WAAAAAAAAAAAAY!!! We argued, forgoot about nature around and bet - than stopped, waited for the Ojek to pass us and..well, I really lost my bet... :) and I was not milionar anymore...(well, at the end - we claimed bet as not valid- and I was able to pay for my hotel :)).

But getting back to Bandung - we were visiting active volcano and also hot springs - guys, that smell kills, really :( and made two ladies happy by giving them 1 USD. I remember myself when I had this little green paper in my hand - wondering "so...this is IT..." so I had to smile, when I saw their excitement. We bought from them some fruit - don't ask me about the name, but is was good -something between apple and...melone?

Btw. I just LOVE Indonesian food! It is spicy :o) but not that much like in India or Sri Lanka, full of vegetable and chicken and fish. Mniameee :) My boss was making fun of me, that I'm like a baby with Christmas gifts. But what to do if the food is soooooooo goood?! (Ana will definitely understand...)

And do you know what? There is AWFUL traffic in Jakarta...on the way back, we made 140 kms in 1 hour and than we spent another 1 hour trying to finish last 10 kms. It was really bad...and smelly :(

What else I can say about Indonesia? I believe in good future of this country - people are hard working and if they will work more on infrastructure, they can make good money on tourism (as Bali).The biggest issue in the country is corruption and criminality - as usually - but new president has some plans, how to improve the situation. Wish you honestly Good Luck!

I might to go to Indonesia again - let's see when and where exactly. But I definitely enjoyed this country a lot and like people there (yeah and food) :).

Sri Lanka - island of Cinnamon and Elephants - comments

2006-10-03T03:29:00.000-07:00

It is nice to have business trips abroad for several reasons:

1. you will visit new country
2. you will get to know more your collegues
3. you will gain new experience

I was quite lucky and got a chance to go for business trip to Sri Lanka with one day off...
I left Dubai at 3:30 in the morning and landed on this amazing island around 8:00.
It took 1 hour to get to the hotel, but not because it was so far - it took that much time because of the vehicle we used and situation on the "road".
Because our agenda was starting next day, we actually got kind of "day off" and decided to enjoy it as much as possible.
Direcly from hotel we went to Kandy. Place cca 120 Km far away - but it took us 3,5 hours to reach.

Kandy is popular touristic place because of Elephants - as you can see, I didn't resist either and took some pictures :)

What I really liked on the way was the fact, we spent all the time in the nature, surrounded by amazing green colour, smelling flowers and trees. It is so nice feeling after leaving desert :)

I got lot's of tea...well, being on Ceylon and not bringing back tea - that would be really weird :) - specially for me - tea lover person. It has amazing pure and shining gold and orange colour, smell of tea and greenery, a little bit of cinnamon taste...simply jumeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

I made a cup of it last evening and I felt like in commercial...closed my eyes, smelled...tasted...and had impression I'm back on this beautyful island.

People here are very nice, polite and helpful. I didn't have any negative experience and had feeling of safety. On the other side I have to admit, that I was not alone (like in India) - I was always with another 3 people or with someone, who was "local". And we had just one day to go around, so there was not that big chance to experienced negative things.

One day I would love to take my bag and just walk through. I'm sure it would be much more different than out of the car window...

So, let's see...when my "one day" will come :)

Sri Lanka - island of Cinnamon and Elephants

2006-10-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy B-Day

2006-09-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

Last year - on my B-Day - I was sitting in Indian bus from Jaipur to Delhi...holding bottle of water and now sure at all, where I will end up and how...

This year, I was since the morning surrounded by friends and people I really like and had one of the most beautyful day. After very long time I had feeling I'm "home" and I belong here.

I REALLY REALLY enjoyed this time with all of you: Adri, Ana, Dan, Donya, Gautam, Gigi, Guilhermo, Holly, Nadi, Peep, Peter, Romi, Sarah, Shady - in the office, in Chilli's, in the party and during barbeque :)

Thank you guys :o) It was G R E A T time!

For Evicka

2006-09-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

The fern and the bamboo

One day I decided to quit...

I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality...
I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with GOD.

"GOD", I said.
"Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"

His answer surprised me...

"Look around", GOD said.
"Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"

"Yes", I replied.

"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care
of them.
I gave them light.
I gave them water.

The fern quickly grew from the earth.
Its brilliant green covered the floor.
Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed.
But I did not quit on the bamboo.
In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed.
But I did not quit on the bamboo."
GOD said.

"In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.
But I would not quit.
In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed.
I would not quit."
GOD said.

"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth.
Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant...
But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots.
Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.
I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."
GOD said to me.

"Did you know, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots?"

"I would not quit on the bamboo.
I will never quit on you."

"Don't compare yourself to others."
GOD said.

"The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern.
Yet they both make the forest beautiful."

"Your time will come", GOD said to me.

"You will rise high"

"How high should I rise?" I asked.

"How high will the bamboo rise?" GOD asked in return.

"As high as it can?" I questioned

"Yes." GOD said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."

I left the forest and bring back this story.

I hope these words can help you see that GOD will never give up on
you.

GOD will never give up on you.

"Life is not a problem to be solved, but a gift to be enjoyed"