Holiday Time!

Today is the beginning of an extended weekend.  Saturday starts the Eid holiday.  We all know that when a holiday is approaching what happens at a primary school....festivities.  On Wednesday, my girls wore baby abayas (covering that women wear in public over their clothes) and shaylas (head coverings).  As soon as they got to school they were so excited.  They ran to the door saying, "Ms. LaTwya, shayla shayla."  It was so cute.  The day included a presentation of traditional activities that take place during Eid for parents.  Children demonstrated their knowledge of prayers and other traditions.  Thursday consisted of girls dressing up in elegant dresses while boys wore traditional kendoras/thobes (long white robes) and sandals.  Various songs and dances were performed.  This was symbolic of the celebration that takes place during Eid which honors Ibraham's willingness to sacrifice his son.  After songs and dances, children thanked their teachers and then proceeded to the classroom to exchange gifts of chocolates, money, and balloons.  From the school, each child received 5 dirhams and chocolates.  One thing I always say that I respect about this country is their unified focus on their beliefs.  Religion and school are not separated because religion is life here.  Even my KG1 students take Islamic studies in which they learn parts of the Quran and recite prayers daily.

As an expat, Eid offers me a little more knowledge about the culture and a few days off of work.  We decided to travel to Oman for the break.  Time to get some more stamps in this passport.  Stay tuned!

Traditional Hair Dance (to be removed soon)

P.S.

I went to the city and got my hair braided.  It's a temporary style until I can really figure out what I am going to do with it.  Thought about going Amber Rose bald.

My forehead is way too big for braids.  Yikes.