Last Day in Rwanda

Today was the day to purchase all my gifts from Rwanda.  I had to wait until noon to start out because it was Umuganda until 11am and everything was closed.  I enjoyed the view from the balcony of Step Town Motel and had a leisurely breakfast.

It took some walking to get to the arts and crafts center.  Once I was there, everyone wanted me to go into his or her shop.  I only could buy a certain amount, since I do not have any room in my suitcase.  Everything will have to be carried.

Well, I stopped when I finally ran out of Rwanda Francs… now I have to figure out how to get everything home.  Not only did I buy a lot of colorful aprons and baskets, I also bought three cow dung pictures.  Yes, that is correct.  I purchased art made out of cow dung.  It actually still smells, which is how you know it is original.  I really have a shopping problem and should get some psychological help.

I decided to go and have a drink at the Hotel Rwanda… I was going to eat there also, but the drink was double the price of every other restaurant.  I guess they are taking advantage of their notoriety.   I decided on just one beer and went to an Indian Restaurant for lunch.  It was fabulous.  It was the best Indian I have had.  I stuffed myself because the portions were so large.

Now that shopping and eating are out of the way… what do I do until 2:45am tomorrow?  I don’t know why I would have made reservations for a flight at such an ungodly hour, but I did.  Probably saved a couple dollars.  Also, did not realize I was traveling on Easter. 

I will miss the people of Rwanda.  They are so nice and always wanting to shake your hand and offer assistance.  It makes it easy to journey through a city and be able to get help when I get lost.   I will miss seeing the beautiful babies on the women’s backs.  So many babies……

Only one issue I have is how they feel they own the road or sidewalk.  I started making some really obnoxious comments, but they do not know what I am saying.  It is better that way. 

I am anxious to see my family and get back to the states; although I am only in Pennsylvania for a couple of days before I take off for St. Thomas.  It is a hard life, but someone has to do it.

I will be on the plane or in an airport for over 35 hours, so won’t be sending a blog for a couple days. 

See you soon, Paula