Magic Doors

There is something magical about Moroccan doors.

Kasbah Oudayas, Rabat

They keep people out; they welcome people in. They reveal what's inside, whether a home, a place of business, a place of learning, a place of worship, or even royalty.  Some even mark the entrance to a village or kasbah.  Doors are the heartbeat, of sorts, to what makes those places "tick".



Chefchaouen





Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca





Royal Palace, Fez



the magnificent Bab Mansour, Meknes



main gate entrance into Kasbah Oudayas, Rabat



Walking the streets of Morocco's cities, one can't help but be drawn to the doors. To their variety; to their uniqueness; to their color, their beauty, and their eccentricity, each one more different than the last.  Some so simple you think there's nothing special about it, but you still notice it because of it's color or some creative twist that's been applied.

small village above Cascade d'Ouzoud

Chefchaouen

Asilah

Kasbah Oudayas, Rabat

Here is a colorful look at some of my favorite doors of the fabulous place I called home for three years.  This in no way is even close to exhausting the numerous photos I have of doors, but it's at least enough to delight your sense of sight with color, texture and sheer beauty.  And, to me, they truly are magical.



Le Mirage Resort Hotel, Tangier



antiques and door souk, Rabat

Chefchaouen

Asilah

Moulay Idriss

Asilah

Chefchaouen

Rabat medina

Chefchaouen government building

Chefchaouen mosque

dar Artana, Chefchaouen

Kasbah Oudayas, Rabat

Midelt kasbah

gray?!  Moulay Idriss

 

PS:  My husband is coming home from his deployment this week (Yay!), and I will be taking a break from writing for several weeks.  Until then, be sure to enjoy and appreciate those that you love, and take special note of the little things that make life grand!

Chefchaouen







The Land of Awesome!

The United States truly is the most amazing country in the world for many, many reasons!  And after having been overseas, this fact is all too obvious.  Let me explain...

I'll admit, living overseas is an experience like no other.  I have completely embraced each and every assignment with an open mind and open eyes.  And each assignment has been great in their own special ways.  But...

There is no place in the world like America.  We have rules, laws, and freedoms like no other country.  Simple things like grocery shopping are taken for granted here.  The quality of USDA is unequalled anywhere else!  Many countries where we've lived don't even have consumer standards on meats or vegetables.  Can you say "disgusting"?

Returning to America is an exciting time.  Before your household goods are even packed up in your foreign locale, you've begun making lists of things you want, things you need, things can't wait to buy, eat, see.

After living in a 3rd world country like Morocco, a simple trip to an American grocery store can be an all day event.  It's complete sensory overload, and your saliva glands get a thorough workout.

So this post is for all my friends who are in the process of PCS'ing (Permanent Change of Station) back to the States. 

Get ready to be completely overwhelmed by the  

fresh, clean lettuce,

even a touch of French to make you feel like you're still in Morocco,

a million different types of breads,

even soft, stay together hot dog buns (remember those?)

coffee creamers that are to die for,

the simple Hispanic tortilla,

real milk in a gallon jug that doesn't leak every time you pour,

pork products of all shapes and sizes

the BEST sharp cheddar cheese at affordable prices,

 great brands of American ice cream in more flavors than you can imagine,

   

beautiful, crisp fruits,

 

farm fresh veggies

even celery of your choice (regular stalks or hearts!),

  

and bug-free broccoli.

Yes, your first trip to a "real" grocery store once you're back in the Land of Awesome will be an outing for the whole family.  

But I'm curious, is there one particular item that you missed the most?

PS:  Thanks ND for the awesome "Land of Awesome" nickname for the good ole USA!  ;)