First Day in Dubai

Reposting my first day's post since it didn't work with the Arabic.

Okay, I'm here and I hope that I can figure out how to post this blog. All of my commands are in Arabic and, well, I don't really understand Arabic. Anyway, I made it to Dubai and it was a very nice flight. Who knew 15 hours on an airplane could actually be pleasant. I'll post a picture of my seat if I can figure out which of these commands uploads a picture. If I can't figure it out today, I'll try later. Anyway, my seat was a nice space with enough room for me to fully extend the leg rest and the person next to me could still get out. Another nice feature was my own private video screen which was probably equivalent to a 19" computer monitor. I could select from over 600 movies and TV shows or I could play games or read up-to-date news. I was even given noise canceling headphones with full stereo surround sound. When it was time to sleep, the seat could extend out to a flat bed and the flight attendants handed out these nice comfy little mattresses to go on the seat. Oh, and the seat had a built-in massage function. Yeah, flying business class was a whole lot better than my last 15-hour plane ride in coach. I actually got some restful sleep.

I can tell you that God's hand is already evident on this journey, so thanks to all who are praying for me. When I arrived at the hotel there was a problem with my American Express card. Last week I called to inquire about my new card as the old card was set to expire this month. I told them that I was about to go on this trip and they assured me that I would be able to use my card through the end of the month and that they would send me another new card. The problem is that when the replacement office was notified that the card they had previously sent was not received by me, they cancelled the card number to keep anyone who happened to get that card from being able to use it. They then issued me a new card number. I try not to carry a whole lot of cash when I'm traveling like this because the exchange rate is so much better when you use a card. But, I didn't panic. I knew God had this whole thing under control and that He was not a bit surprised about my predicament. I had the hotel contact American Express for me and they were able to force the approval of my card and they will be sending a replacement card on to my hotel in Cape Town, so that I will have something to use for the rest of my trip. Whew! God is good ALL the time! Oh, I have to tell you that before I went to bed I went out on my balcony and sang praises to God out loud. This is a place where God is not acknowledged, but His presence is real and very evident to me.

I had a good night's sleep, and I will be spending some time out at the beach today. I've already walked down to it and it is beautiful. I'll take lots of pictures to share as well. Then I have a bit of work to do before meeting up with my colleagues here for dinner tonight. Tomorrow I'll be busy doing my presentation. Happy Father's Day to all the fathers out there. I definitely miss my Dad on this day especially, but I know I'll get so see him again one day.