Reso Khallig?

I'm back in Aleg again... so soon! I almost don't feel like a recluse. Speaking of which - word on the street is that reso (otherwise known as cell phone reception) is coming to my little town in about a month! While the timeline may or may not be accurate, the prospect is still thrilling. Next time you all have the money for an international phone call burning holes in your pockets, you'll know who to dial.

This fantastic development is courtesy of the rich guy who owns a mansion on the edge of town. I went to a big party there once ('twas some sort of political thing, and I guess I got invited to lunch because I'm conspicuous). I sat on the floor with about 50 other women in mulafas in a room that looked like it was constructed in the 1940's or so - it actually reminded me of Grandma's house. This is remarkable only if you live in Maal, where all the other houses are made of sand bricks and literally fall to bits within 10 years of construction. We ate dates and cream, two platters of meat, and cous-cous with meat and (thankfully) some vegetables, followed by tea, zrig, and bottled water. It was quite the feast. Maybe once this guy and his family come back to stay, I can get to know them... Hehe. Anyone who would put up a cell phone tower just for his own convenience would be a good friend to have.

Anyway, the reason I'm in town now is because I'm trying hard to get visas to visit Mom and Dad. I really hope I can get everything in order before it's too late. Should I just give up and meet them in Istanbul? We shall see.