May 8

I had an easy trip thanks to Tylenol PM. I really did sleep most of the way and the airplane was very empty so I got to stretch out. It does help that I’m short.

Kassa picked me up at the airport in the Women for Women car. It is beautiful but even better our ladies don’t have to be rejected by any taxi drivers, they can just wave as they pass by.

My goal this trip is to keep my heart and spirit in peace. I decided that it does no good to get so upset and frustrated. I imagined myself floating through all the obstacles. I did great when I arrived and waited for my visa while standing in line with lots others. I didn’t even complain about the wait and the long process. I did fine waiting for my suitcases as they were some of the last ones off. Then…… I got stopped in customs because I had some books for the University with me and two radios from the 1980s.

First they were going to keep them then they said I could have them if I paid taxes (the amount no one knew) Then they asked me to sign legal papers that stated I was bringing in prohibited items. They were quite frustrated when I insisted on reading all the fine print and they assured me that they were only “legal papers”. Seeing my anger they sent me on to the supervisor where I waited and waited. Finally he came out and I “explained” to him how frustrating it is to drag these things across the world, pay extra baggage charges, and then to be greeted in his country with this kind of reception. He apologized and I sailed on through.

So much for peace.

I couldn’t sleep last night because of the time change, we are nine hours ahead here, so my little house is very well organized and clean. I’m ready for life.

Now I am at the Trampled Rose. I feel like a movie star. All the women waited in line to kiss and hug me. How fun! I am now a little sticky because of the very potent “hair food” they use but those are some of the best sticky kisses I ever got.