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Few things are as decadent as ice cream for breakfast, but coupled with fresh fruit, French toast and Christmas cookies, it makes for a sugar rush that any devotee would envy. Thanks to Barry and Eve for the spread. It'll hold us til dinner.
Last night Drew, Donald and I went to a Christmas party hosted by Susie Pratt of the US Embassy and what a great time I had! I met my Canadian military friends from IMATT and we had lots to talk about, not the least of which was Rick Mercer's rant this week- I love having wireless. I had lovely conversation with the new folk installed at the UNAIDS mission here in Freetown. We talked of Stephen Lewis and Grandmother to Grandmother in addition to working with the new president of the country to assist in the organization of the health ministry. I met other world citizens who's experiences parallel and exceed my own. We sang songs and ate too much and laughed a lot. What a great evening. Thanks, Susie for your gracious invitation and your kindness while the Amistad is here.
Yesterday, I went shopping on foot by myself, and that was splendid. There's been a lot of discussion of safety and security and I think I'd been cornered into thinking there was only one way to do things. Ha ha, says the universe. I wanted to get some bread and fruit for Christmas, not really knowing what would be closed today and I had a fine time. When I asked for directions from a fellow my age he insisted on walking me to the store, turns out he's a colonel in the Army. Nice guy. I met a sweet young man who repaired my failed watch, the battery had gone, but there had been trouble with it also. He took it all apart and made a piece to replace something I'd smashed, all for 15,000Le or about 5 dollars US, so I gave him 20,000. He had such a beautiful smile and a jeweler's precision.
The poverty is hard to witness; the disabled beg from their wheelchairs and children actively seek a handout. But most are engaged in a form of commerce, selling everything you can think of- boxes of tissues, fruit, bread, sunglasses, clothing, lots of shoes, cards, lottery tickets, cigarettes, anything! Who needs a storefront? I am privileged to participate in the Amistad adventure, it offers me much. Christmas is a bonus.
Love to all my family, love to my sweetie in Bridgewater today with Jeff and Vicki, have a wonderful day. I'll try to call on Skype. Love to the Florida contingent, the Iowa flock, the Dartmouth family, the Greenwood group, the Maryland gang and the Annapolis Valley players. I love you all, think and pray for me and the Amistad as we sweat it out in the sun of beautiful Sierra Leone. (It's 88 degrees) HK
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