Homecoming

After a fairly long haul, I am back on US soil, currently spending a few days on the West Coast before finally going home to Boise.

The trip itself was fairly smooth. I left Dakar at around midnight Friday night, this flight was delayed by about 90 minutes but I had a long enough lay-over in Paris. Charles de Gaulle airport, as always was charming. Both customs agents stamped over other stamps in my passport. Apparently France is more important than both Zambia and Panama. Thanks CDG.

Thankfully we left on-time and after a quick 8 hour flight over the Atlantic, I was back on US soil! The border agent in Washington D.C. was so friendly and told me "welcome back." But the other passengers waiting in line were griping about the wait, even though our flight arrived 40 minutes early!! Thus the different conception of time was immediately apparent upon arrival.

My flight to Portland went smoothly and again, I arrived about 15 minutes early. Although I am a little disappointed in United Airlines which did not feed us a single peanut/pretzel on a 6 hour flight. No I am not buying an 8 dollar snack pack, thanks. I anticipate being angry about the price of everything for the next few weeks, so bear with me.

Liz and Megan picked me up at the airport and here I am, chilling in Portland, Oregon until I fly back to Boise on Wednesday.

It is sure cold here after the beautiful 85 degree days in Dakar. I am also entirely unaccustomed to being surrounded by white people. I anticipate a healthy period of adjustment but for now a little well-needed nostalgia.

Things I Have Learned in Africa:

1. Sometimes the best place to be is on the floor

2. You can get a filling meal for under a dollar if you know where to go

3. Children have as much to teach me as I do them

4. How to drive on the left side of the road!

5. Love thy neighbor

6. How to get by surprisingly well without a washing machine, oven, electricity, hot water or even running water

7. Time is relative

8. Flexibility and patience pay

9. When life gets rough, seek the company of babies

10. Family will, ironically enough, keep you sane and drive you crazy

11. Always bring a buddy

12. Anything is possible

I believe this will be my last blog, unless I decide to post some pics from the last few weeks. It's been quite the journey. And as for those of you who think I should write a book, well, I'll consider it.

I hope that I will get a chance to see you all soon and catch up.
Happy holidays.
~Jess~