From Abu Dhabi With Love…

By:NewNaturalista

It’s what most of us aspire to have. A chance to set out on our own, grow a family together – and live happily ever after. But for me at least, somewhere in there comes the pain of realizing that by taking on the adventure of building a life away from your home – you’re often sacrificing the comfort of an extended family.

For Kera Thompson however, the chance to move from the United States to Abu Dhabi was an opportunity she and her family couldn’t refuse. Her husband was offered a three year work contract in the United Arab Emirate, an hour outside of Dubai. “With the struggling economy in the States, and that fact that we had nothing to lose, we jumped when presented the opportunity to live here,” says Kera. “The benefits of ex-pat life are great and it will be extremely bittersweet when the time comes to go home to the US.”

I’m always inspired reading Kera’s blog RunningMommy – so I had to find out her secret to balancing her home away from home – while taking advantage of the beauty and culture of Abu Dhabi – which is featured in the new “Sex And The City” movie!

NewNaturalista: Describe life Abu Dhabi?

Kera: Abu Dhabi is an emirate and the capitol city of the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi is easy to navigate and immaculately kept, boasting beautiful ocean views, and numerous gardens and parks. It’s more family oriented and quieter than neighboring Dubai. It is a large island with several smaller islands surrounding it. Even though it is relatively small, it feels incredibly urban and we love that. We have a beautiful view of the ocean from our window, and the winter months are exceptionally wonderful. Islam is the national religion, and nationals wear the traditional white kandura (men) and black abaya (women). The call to prayer echos through the streets regularly, and has become something we look forward to hearing each day. The UAE is a huge melting pot of people from all over the globe.

We have had the best time enveloping ourselves in Middle Eastern and Eastern culture, and trying all the amazing cuisines. I am currently obsessed with Lebanese, and Keralan cuisine. The foods and spices here are one of the best aspects of life in the UAE. I also have a blast fabric hunting and antique shopping. I love having custom clothes made by expert Indian tailors, and finding unique accessories for my home from the various shops in the city.

NewNaturalista: The new “Sex And The City” movie is set in Abu Dhabi. Have you seen the movie? (If so, thoughts on the depiction.) If not, do you plan on seeing it, or have you heard those in the region talk about it? What’s been the response?

Kera: The movie is set in Abu Dhabi, but is actually filmed in Morocco. Abu Dhabi’s laws are strict when it comes censorship.  In fact the movie has been banned here. My husband and I laughed when we saw the glazed and super shiny trailer, however. Although Abu Dhabi is a very wealthy, glamorous city, but on average people are mostly working hard (and sweating)! I have not seen the movie yet, but I will for sure when I get to the US. It’s been quite the controversy to those that care.

NewNaturalista: Have there been any advantages/disadvantages of living there while raising a family?

Kera: City living is always more challenging with kids! We only have one car, so during the day the boys and I are either taking taxis or busses. When we are out and about, we are constantly on guard for crazy drivers and screaming “No!” “Slow Down!” or “Stop!” Even though there are several gorgeous parks to play at, I definitely miss having a backyard for the kids to play in. My oldest boy doesn’t mind though, as he loves the action of the city and loves to ride the bus. Luckily, a grocery store is right below our flat, so that helps, and everything that we need is basically within walking distance. We have learned to really relax and appreciate the small things (such as finding a parking spot!), as kids and cities will always keep you on your toes.

As far as advantages, I really love that my kids are being exposed to so many people from different cultures. I didn’t have that opportunity as a kid, and I think they will be much better for it. Also, with so many foreign workers, services are extremely affordable. We have two Ethiopian girls that clean our flat once a week and it has been the greatest blessing. With two mischievous boys, cleaning a 3000 sq ft. two level home with marble floors is nearly impossible!

NewNaturalista: Your photos are wonderful. How long have you been taking pictures – and what’s your favorite thing/person to photograph?

Kera: Thank you very much! I am no photographer. My husband bought me a entry level SLR right before we moved here, and I’ve been experimenting with that. I used to model, and I have a love and appreciation for art and design, so that definitely helps composing a shot. I love taking photos of my family, and I love candid urban photographs. I will be upgrading my lens to a 50mm this summer, and I think that will really make a difference in my pictures.

NewNaturalista: Tell us a how “RunningMommy” came to be?

Kera: I had just finished my first marathon, was living in Utah, and I found out that I was expecting my second baby. My mom, who lives in Indiana, was always complaining that I never shared enough pictures of Owen. I think that’s how a lot of mommy bloggers come to be- they’re just trying to journal and keep in touch with family. I fell in love with the blogging world when I realized I wasn’t alone. There are women all over the globe having the same struggles, experiences, and thoughts as I do. I started to connect with these women, and I realized that I could effect people for good through my lens and my words. All the while, I was constantly being uplifted, inspired, and entertained myself!

NewNaturalista: What’s the most satisfying thing about blogging?

Kera: I love hearing from my readers! I’ve written several personal posts that really mean a lot to me, and it makes my day when something really resonates with someone. I’ve connected with so many women and truly consider them my friends. I have got to host a big bloggy party where we all can meet someday.

NewNaturalista: I’m anxious to read more of “The Love Story.” Your husband’s version of how you met is beautiful. (obviously from the comments other thought so too!) What keeps the connection there for you two?

Kera: Thanks! I had no idea that those posts would be such a hit! I’m trying to get him to write the rest right now, so stay tuned. That’s a great question. I really don’t know how I got so lucky to snag a man that is so perfect for me. McSean is great. It’s not like we don’t have arguments, but I think we love each other too much to let things bother us for long. Believe me, I know how to hold a grudge, but for some reason I just can’t with him.

I am an only child and sucked at communicating. Throughout the first year of our marriage, I sobbed a lot as he (a brother to 7 siblings) would try to drag my emotions out of me. He was patient while I learned, and now I am much better at expressing my feelings which I think is key in any relationship.

NewNaturalista: How long have you been running and what does it do for you?

Kera: I’ve been running since middle school. I was a sprinter and loved being a part of a team of great girls. I had never run more than 4 miles in a row until a good friend talked me into training for a marathon when I was 24. Sprinting is great, but the challenge of a distance run is thrilling. I’ve never felt so many emotions before! Try running 20+ miles alone, and you will get to know the inside of your brain very well. Running is MY time. My time to ponder and plan, or to zone out, but either way, I’m always challenging myself. Physically, it’s been great. I feel fit and strong, and it really assists in maintaining my weight.

NewNaturalista: How long have you been modeling?

Kera: I competed in Teen USA 2000, and have been modeling ever since. I’ve done some runway, but I have a more ‘lifestyle’/print look so I mostly book in that industry.

NewNaturalista: Tell us your “hair story” and the reactions in the modeling world.

Kera: It has gotten me plenty of jobs! For awhile, I was extremely confident, because I was booking everything I auditioned for, and I know it had to do with my hair. I think the modeling industry is starting to appreciate diversity and are looking for something special. Natural hair gives me an edge.

NewNaturalista: What’s been the funniest/craziest/most inspiring reaction to your hair?

Kera: It was hilarious the effect my natural hair had on white boys when I was single living in Salt Lake. They had never seen anything like it in their whole lives! (literally.) I got comments everywhere I went, and I felt like a total rock star until I headed back to a bigger city and realized that every black girl has natural hair these days, and I was nothing special.

Kera’s take on NewNaturalista’s 5 “F’s”

Fashion: Trends, style, inspired

Fitness: life, health, strength

Foodies: crusty bread, good cheese, olive oil

Family: core, values, tradition

Focus: determination, goals, sacrifice

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