I finally succeeded in calling you

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Yes, Yes, Yes. I finally succeeded in calling you. It was my 164th attempt!

Here's what I had to do: Dial 1, then ID number, followed by password, then choose 1 for telephone, then dial international and Canada codes, then dial your number, then push A for connection, and there are always a few seconds of waiting between each punch. Anyway, I was extremely happy today to hear your voices, including little Bulbul's!

I forgot to tell you earlier that visitations here are better than at OCDC [Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre] where I could only talk to you via phone behind a glass barrier. Here, visitors are allowed inside small cabins (rooms) with guards outside the door; they can peek through little windows if they wish. At least I can hug you all for a minimum of 30 minutes per visit (45 minutes if you come from a distance of more than 150 Kms), three times per week.

I received your letter (dated December 26 and stamped December 30) after I spoke with you. I liked it, though it gave me tears every time I imagined Jena doing this or that, and it hurts when I read all her questions and requests for me to come back. I hope she’ll adapt more because it’s hard on everyone to see her under such conditions. At least I was happy to know that she’s full of beans...

You know, I was so happy to hear your voice but I forgot what we talked about. I’ll remember everything tonight. I miss you and Bulbula so much, and love to see you and little Bulbul soon. I hope you're doing well, Habibti, and wish you the best.