1 year in the desert

I am in Italy. It's some distance from the desert. In fact my current view of Lake Como from a top an Italian mountain could not be more different from the year of desertscapes we have had. 

First things first, do I like living in the UAE? Yes. I am not just saying that because if you don't then they won't let you either. The 360+ days of sun we have had this year have been awesome. The heat was immense and completely manageable even for the bluest of pale complexions. It does take practice though. Finally the frequent weekends away and trips into the desert don't get old. 

Something's I don't like. 1) The insistence on being disorganised. I am not an organised person. I am slow in the morning, I am crap at paperwork and how on earth you write a long term plan is beyond me. I have always relied on a good manager to keep me in check. If you know, you know. However, this year seems to have actively made decisions to be disorganised. 2) Night rides. These happen out of nessesity. Come April, May time the midday heat is too much to cycle in. This leaves just two choices, super early and super late. Neither of these appeal and is testiment to my love of cycling that I have been able to attend them regularly. Sat here in Italy at 12:21 with a cool breeze and a bright blue sky it cannot be denied that liking cycling, or outdoor sport in general for that matter, is easier in Europe. 3) No pork. I didn't realise this one until yesterday but without pork there are just fewer meaty options. I am not even the biggest fan of pork anyway and didn't feel like I missed it but with no pork our meat largely revolves around beef and chicken, desert fish is not hugely appealing. Both are good but variety is the spice of life after all. 

All that said it has still been a good year. It's been frustrating and bewildering. It has also been a much welcomed change that has given us the opportunity to experience something markedly different life in the UK. Role on next year. 


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