A couple of days ago, I decided to do something about my phone bill. You see on the 15th of every month, the phone bill needs to be paid at a post office. However in my case unfortunately, I need to pay mine at the main Armentel office near the Republic Square. The reason for this is because my residence on the Title Deed is classified as a business as opposed to residential. Many moons ago my flat was an artist�s studio and so on the Deed, it still shows up as a business. Every month when I pay the bill, the process takes approx. an hour since I first need to obtain a print out from one section then pay it somewhere else and the queue is generally quite overwhelming, so I decided I needed to do something about this.

I visited the �bed� of Armentel re my situation and was advised I needed to go to the �cadastre� which is like a Land Titles office. The following day I went to the �cadastre� pronounced ka �das- ter, with a colleague and was advised that it was up to the decision of one man located at the Municipality Council. So the next step is to visit the Council and apply to have the status changed. I�d hate to think how long that process is going to take place and how much it�s going to cost. Once I obtain approval, I then need to re-visit the cadastre and hope for the best, I�ll keep you informed on the outcome.

The second annoying part of having my place classified as a business, apart from the wait time, is the fact that I pay a monthly charge of 3240 drams as opposed to the 900 drams standard charge. I know this isn�t much, however if and when the per-minute charges are introduced, I won�t have the luxury of 120 minutes? of free talk-time. I know it�s all up in the air still (the per minute charge) but I may as well try and resolve the situation ASAP.

Last night was my last evening of teaching English class for this year; I may re-start the classes in March. The students were so amazing; we exchanged phone numbers and e-mails with those who have access to computers from their work place. They sang Armenian songs for me, and one special one �Cilicia� since both my parents are from Cilicia, which was quite touching. Arthur was playing the guitar while the others were singing. They also presented me with a Christmas card and all had written as to how much they enjoyed my classes. It makes it all worthwhile. They really are a bunch of enthusiasts and special people.

Lastly for today�s log, I just want to share with readers how lonely it can get sometimes living away from family and friends.