A Quiet New Year

Happy New Year!
2008 arrived fairly quietly in Damascus, just a few fireworks at midnight and then happy sounds of neighbours and their families celebrating with laughter and chat but then it all went quiet.
So far this year has been chilli and dry and there was some snowfall in areas around the city but it didn't fall on us. Some people had no water due to frozen or even burst water pipes in their homes as there is no lagging on pipes here. Everyone is telling me that this very cold weather is a little unusual so we will have to blame global warming.
Damascus in 2008 has been designated the capital of Arab culture and to mark this honour there was a wonderful firework display last Friday from the top of the Cassioun hills (which preside over the west of the City). It went on for several minutes and was quite spectacular, we had a good view from our flat. There will be lots of cultural events taking place this year and John and I hope to get to see some of them - plays, concerts, opera etc.
John's work is going well and the staff in the office are hard at work but also seem to be enjoying themselves. I have seen a few apartments but we will probably not make a final decision on where we want to live until we come back from leave in mid-March.
My days are filled with activities such as learning Arabic, keeping fit at the gym, various church activities and of course (for those of you who know me well enough) shopping!
I hope to attach some photos of Damascus soon, when John shows me how to do it!!!!
Bye for now.