Lots of good news in the past few days:
- I'm in a new home! I moved out of temporary housing to my "permanent" housing. 500 sq. ft. to 700 sq. ft.
- I'm now officially a Saudi Resident! My Iqama (proof of residency card) came through today (Photo is intentionally cropped for legal purposes, obviously).
- I did some IKEA shopping for the new home. Unfortunately the stuff doesn't come in for a couple weeks, so it's just me and the mattress for now. 😕
- I've got five days till school starts, and that's been stressful to take care of while also doing loads of running around for life-stuff: car, permit, Saudi driver's liscence, setting up a local Saudi bank account, medical appointments, MOVING, buying phones, internet, groceries, eating, running, swimming, etc. etc. etc.
- Teachers have been super helpful at this school (which I can't label by name, and if you know, please don't mention it by name on this site either, thank you!), and that had made this process so much better.
Here's a shot of my "buddy"/experienced teacher who volunteered to come back to S.A. early from his repatriation back to Canada early this summer to show me around and get me acclimated. I owe him so much. This is IKEA shopping. 
That's enough for now, but know that things are going well. Although, I couldn't be more ready for that day when I'm settled into my new home, I've checked all the things off my relocation to-do list, and I'm in full swing in my teaching. Then, I'll breathe a bit easier. Trying to enjoy the moment as well, and new friends here are making that possible with plenty of parties, mall trips, and meals spent talking about how we all wound up here in this amazing place.
Something that sets this international school apart from others is that this is a place families (of which almost everyone here has), stay here. Uncommon, and that just shows the quality of the life, ability to travel, and generally enjoyable experience people can have here. Very happy to get this experience as well, albeit sans-familia.
My best to you all!!
Oh! And if you're looking for me on WhatsApp, try adding my new Saudi phone number: +966-50-529-8378
Cheers!
WETZEL'S WANDERINGS 
So glad your are doing well and settling in comfortably. It looks amazing there and no doubt you will create so many great life memories and inspire so many of your students along the way. They are lucky to have you and I look forward to reading about your many adventures!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Alicia! We’ll get in another phone call sometime after I get more minutes on my phone. 🙂 Great to hear from you!!
LikeLike
Pete!!!!! Love getting the pictures and seeing where you are and hearing that all is going well!!! They are so lucky to have you!!! Can’t wait to hear all about your students and future aventures and in the meantime please know much love is coming your way … every day !!!
LikeLike
Love to you all too Mary!
LikeLike
Your friend doesn’t look very happy. Share the nachos!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, that’s totally the meme for that picture: “when your friend doesn’t share his nachos…” 😂
LikeLike
Thanks for update. Glad to hear you are in a place and getting settled. Have a good couple of days off before school starts. Take some time to relax and do something for yourself
LikeLike
I streamed the Chiefs game from last night to enjoy a piece of home. Although it was the 49’ers broadcast, so I was a tad disappointed in that. Thanks Kathy, and I hope the year started well for you!
LikeLike
Looks awesome! Have fun and would love to come visit!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ha, thanks Chase. Not this time of year you dont, avg. 114 not including heat index and humidity. But winter’s nice!
LikeLike
Peter!!!! We miss you dearly:):). The place looks amazing and I’m sure in no time it will be immaculate like your own classroom. Some colleagues from the district were asking about you at school today as well as MANY of the parents inquiring last night at back to school night about you. You are well loved by so many!! Take care and be safe:).
LikeLike
Thanks for messaging, Elaine. I appreciate the update and yes, working on getting my classroom up to “Wetzel Standards!” Thanks for relaying my hello back to those parents and families. I miss them and all of you back there at FR! 🙂
LikeLike
Lookin’ good Pete. Keep posting and we’ll keep reading
LikeLike
Great pics!
LikeLike