Speaking Arabic

I am still here on St. Croix. My travels have been suspended for the time being. I have been studying Spanish and plan to spend some time in Puerto Rico, maybe during the summer. I've also been studying Arabic, as I plan to spend time in North Africa and the Middle East once I get moving again.

This morning, I had an Arabic conversation at the gas station. Remember, all or most the gas stations on the island are owned by Arabs. The conversation went like this.

Me:صباح الخير (Good morning)

The attendant:صباح النور. كيف حالكم يا صديقي؟ (Good morning. How are you my friend?)

pause

Me: Crap!

The attendant: I asked how you're doing?

Me: I know! I know! I just don't remember what to say! الحمد لله (Praise God)

The attendant: Yes! الحمد لله، شكرا (Praise God, thank you)

I gave him my money.

Me: عشرين على اثنين (twenty on two)

The attendant: شكرا. مع السلامة (Thanks. Goodbye)

Me: مع السلامة (Goodbye)

I will try again the next time I go to buy gas. Hopefully by the time I get to North Africa, the conversation can progress to ما اسمك؟ (What's your name?) أنا اسمي جميل (My name is Jamile.)