Backlash... New Talent... Turning 21...

 I guess it was inevitable... I am so proud that Zahir doesn't want to hide me and our marital status anymore. That said there has been a price, things have gotten weird here. We have been receiving threatening calls. Mama and I are not allowed to answer them without screening first.

 I apologized to Mama for changing her world. She responded with more love. She says the "friends" who have fallen away, were not real friends in the first place. 

 A couple weeks ago I was sent home with security after a suspicious package arrived at the office. Neither the boss or Zahir will tell me what was in it. A few days later I was allowed to return to the campus after new security was put in place. 

 A few of my buddies have asked if we are leaving Jordan. I know they are concerned with my safety. The brothers met to discuss the topic of leaving Jordan as well. Of course, I was not a "direct" contributor to their discussion.

 Something odd happened, while Mama and I were making snacks. The brothers took a break and Z took me to our suite. For the first time he asked my opinion on something serious. I told him the people who are harassing us are bullies. I have some experience dealing with bullies. I know they have to be opposed or they win and become bolder. In order for change to occur someone has to be brave enough (KNOWING the risk) to stand. I also said it was NOT my place to make the change. 

 Although I call this country my home, I am not a Jordanian or Bedu (hubby disagreed). I told him that however he chose for us, I would stand with him. Long story short, regardless of the cost, we are staying.

 Zahir had to go on a business trip because of the destination, he had to go without me. He gave me permission to go with the boss to Monaco we are re-designing a casino. There is a lot of structural work that has to happen. Calculating load points on the fly is my specialty. We had a real good first meeting with the client.

 That night the boss wanted to hit the casino. He gave me a little stack of chips to mess around with. Found out I SUCK at poker!!! I do not have the "poker face" needed. However, I do REAL well at twenty-one. Z got an alert on my bank account when I deposited my winnings. It seams my math gift works real good at odds calculations. The boss stayed very close to me for the next three trips to the casino. 

 It's nice proving I can contribute to our family's assets.

 The boss will be taking me on another trip next week... Hint it is VERY cold there and there are huge travel restrictions. We will be isolated for two weeks waiting to talk to the client. Then another two weeks of isolation when we get home. This client insists on face to face contact. Zahir will be in the field too, just not with us. 

 The boss is trying to keep Zahir and I on the same travel timelines to minimize our separation. He has become like another father to me. The boss is determined to get me certified and accredited as swiftly as possible. I am not sure but, I think he wants to use Z and I as the company front men for our work in Europe and the States.

And on the topic of twenty-one... I have turned it! The celebration was low-key. Got to chat with the grandparents, Officer Mike and dispatcher John. The party was no booze, just fun, family and food. 

  I got a cute "not for public" gift from Z. 

 The bottom line (no pun intended) I am still here and fabulous!