Nous avons arrive!

7:30 this morning, my eyes still shut behind the standard-issue Delta Airlines shade mask, I grope blindly for the shade to my window seat, 25A. A blinding flash penetrated the mask and shook me instantly awake: It was morning, far above but not far away from our destination. 45 minutes later, the sound of wheels skidding was met by the din of passengers clapping. The landing strip was not like those of JFK international, NY, NY. Rather, it was a single long stretch of faded pavement rife with venous cracks that weeds grew out of. The surrounding scenery consisted of earthy red pock marked with the occasional verdant patch, palm trees in the distance.

In the city, a man sped by veering betwixt vehicles riding his hand-made recumbent bicycle hewn of a wheel chair and a road bike welded together. Street vendors with their wares prominently displayed upon their heads like crowns milled about our van and tried in vain to speak above the banter surrounding everything. I can't tell if the smell is that of diesel fuel or of burning peanut oil.

At the market, the same smell, spiced up with spice racks and garbage heaps, vultures in our midst. The drab surroundings are made cheery with the eager children rushing to touch us and vying for digital photos. Colorful hand-made boats descended from whole logs dip like buoys in the rough waves-- abnormally rough, one has capsized!

I have 3 minutes left to this session. All is great!