Dispatches from the Congo – A Journey of Love (Part 17)
By Erin Pohland Days 20 and 21 Good evening from Kinshasa- In 48 hours, I hope to be on a plane back to the U.S. In 48 hours, I hope to get through customs with the help of someone called a “protocol,” who will deal with the paperwork relating to the baby for me. In 48 hours, I hope to say au revoir to Kinshasa, possibly forever. But what to do between now and then? Today, I spent some time packing; I certainly bought more African art than I expected. Between that and Andrew’s scooter (handmade by his foster family…
Dispatches from the Congo – A Journey of Love (Part 16)
By Erin Pohland Days 18 and 19 Hi from Kinshasa- The past few days have been relatively tame, in terms of my typical day in Kinshasa. Yesterday, Andrew and I didn’t leave the apartment — and Andrew didn’t leave my arms. I must admit that as much as I love my son, it gets a bit old to constantly carry him. I would have thought that he would have adjusted to the cats by now, but he hates them just as much as he did on day one (although now, he does the “shoo fly” motion towards them that I…
Open Thread – Auction Time!
Here are a few of the items that will be up for bid! It should be a great time! * Halibut Cove Weekend. Two nights for up to 4 guests at Peter Mjos’ beachfront rustic cabin at Halibut Cove, across Kachemak Bay from Homer. Enjoy a unique and fun-filled excursion hosted by Peter and Karen. Includes hiking in Kachemak Bay State Park, clamming and kayaking. Gorgeous view. Includes all meals, as well as Gin & Tonics made with glacier ice! * Two Night Stay at Laughing Raven Guest House in Homer. Two nights at a private, luxurious home in Homer…
Open Thread – Ditto
Happy December, Mudflatters! Here’s the simple way to outdo the neighbors.
Dispatches from the Congo – A Journey of Love (Part 15)
By Erin Pohland NOTE: I wrote this post from Kinshasa on June 30, the Congo’s 51st anniversary of independence from Belgian rule. On November 28, 2011, the Congo will hold its second election since the “end” of its civil war in 2002. Whatever your beliefs, please take a moment to think of or pray for the Congolese people tomorrow, and on December 6, when the election results are scheduled to be read. Election watchers have grave concerns about the potential for election fraud and ensuing violence — regardless of who wins (incumbent president Joseph Kabila or his main challenger, Etienne…
Open Thread – Small Business Saturday!
Not the best picture, but definitely the best idea for what to do today! Black Friday is over, and the deals are dealt. So, now it’s time to think local! No matter where you are today, think about what local businesses you’re grateful for, and give them your support. Small local businesses are up against some stiff competition, and they don’t have all the advantages that the big corporate chains do. But they love their communities, hire local people, and generally provide outstanding personalized service. And don’t just think gift and clothing stores – services like auto detailing, snow removal,…
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving, Mudflatters! With so much distress in the world, it’s difficult sometimes to remember all the things to be grateful for. There are many. First of all, I’d like to thank all of you for reading! I suppose I’d be writing anyway, even if only into the void, but it certainly wouldn’t be as much fun. And thanks to those of you who comment, and give us your feedback. I do try to read all of the comments, and constantly marvel at how thoughtful and insightful they are. Thanks also to those who not only lend their moral support,…
Dispatches from the Congo – A Journey of Love (Part 14)
By Erin Pohland Day 14, Kinshasa Hey all- I’m utterly exhausted, so this email will be very short. The good news: we got the visa! The bad news: my agency (via Reverend Bashaka) messed so many things up that I had to spend 4 hours at the embassy fighting with the consul to get it, and I’ve now hired a local lawyer, and I’ll need to hire a translator tomorrow to get documents translated for the embassy. In addition to not having the proper birth certificate or signed relinquishment papers in Swahili, Bashaka also never bothered to have the entire…