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Monday, June 23, 2008
Thursday, June 19th, 2008
I spent the whole morning chilling and running errands with Aunty Jocelyn today. First we visited the Internet café, where I introduced Aunty J to the fantabulous world of email and Facebook. I showed her how to navigate her email account, and then let her be to do her stuff. After our session, she said she thinks she’s hooked… haha… oh my! What have I started?
Next, Aunty J went to purchase a bus ticket for Garth’s Granny Joey (whom we all call Mammie). She lives in Franshoek, South Africa (very near Somerset West where our sister choir, Siyacula, hails from). She comes up to Namibia every winter to escape the cold. (It’s winter in Africa by the way, if you didn’t already know.) I hear it’s getting really dreary and rainy down there; and in the mountain areas, they even get snow! In Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, it also gets chilly but not so much compared to South Africa, I suppose. Just imagine chilly Autumn weather in Edmonton. Anyway, I’m looking forward to seeing her again. Haha… but I can’t say so much the same for Garthy. Heehee… let’s just say that South African grannies tend to lay down the line yo. And that’s the rep! Word. ;-p
It’s Valentino’s 2-year-old birthday tomorrow! Eee… I spotted this really cool jacket at Jet (another retail store) that I think he’d look great in. Woot woot! Now we can have a PAR-TAY! But I don’t that’ll happen ‘til next week some time because this weekend is really full already with choir stuff and the road trip to Windhoek.
Before heading back home, Aunty J & I met up with Garth during his lunch break. We just walked some more around town and hung out. When Aunty J & I got back to Narraville, I went over to visit Tania and ‘Tino again. I wanted to check up on the festivity plans and play with with ‘Tino for a bit. Haha… as you can tell, my life here in Walvis Bay is extremely mellow. Nothing too hectic… yet.
There was another Afroshine practice tonight. This time in Swakop with Joel. To my wonderful surprise upon entering the house, I saw Scott’s vehicle which meant he was back!!! YAY! I was happy to see him! As the guys were jamming away and Scott was freshening up, Megan and I talked about some possible things to do next week. oOooo… quad biking on the dunes might be in the plans. For sure we plan to visit Hanganani School (one of the schools Koko sang at last year – during a sandstorm no less) and Mondesa Youth Organization (Lex taught there last year; and Engelhardt & Herman from Mascato currently works there). It’ll be great to see the children again! Can’t wait!
While Afroshine & Joel practiced, Scott, Megan & I finished off the evening by having dessert and appies at The Lighthouse Restaurant by the Swakop beach. Yummy place for food! Then the Walvis Bay peeps came to pick me up and we all headed home. Just another day in good ol’ Namibia. =)
Next, Aunty J went to purchase a bus ticket for Garth’s Granny Joey (whom we all call Mammie). She lives in Franshoek, South Africa (very near Somerset West where our sister choir, Siyacula, hails from). She comes up to Namibia every winter to escape the cold. (It’s winter in Africa by the way, if you didn’t already know.) I hear it’s getting really dreary and rainy down there; and in the mountain areas, they even get snow! In Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, it also gets chilly but not so much compared to South Africa, I suppose. Just imagine chilly Autumn weather in Edmonton. Anyway, I’m looking forward to seeing her again. Haha… but I can’t say so much the same for Garthy. Heehee… let’s just say that South African grannies tend to lay down the line yo. And that’s the rep! Word. ;-p
It’s Valentino’s 2-year-old birthday tomorrow! Eee… I spotted this really cool jacket at Jet (another retail store) that I think he’d look great in. Woot woot! Now we can have a PAR-TAY! But I don’t that’ll happen ‘til next week some time because this weekend is really full already with choir stuff and the road trip to Windhoek.
Before heading back home, Aunty J & I met up with Garth during his lunch break. We just walked some more around town and hung out. When Aunty J & I got back to Narraville, I went over to visit Tania and ‘Tino again. I wanted to check up on the festivity plans and play with with ‘Tino for a bit. Haha… as you can tell, my life here in Walvis Bay is extremely mellow. Nothing too hectic… yet.
There was another Afroshine practice tonight. This time in Swakop with Joel. To my wonderful surprise upon entering the house, I saw Scott’s vehicle which meant he was back!!! YAY! I was happy to see him! As the guys were jamming away and Scott was freshening up, Megan and I talked about some possible things to do next week. oOooo… quad biking on the dunes might be in the plans. For sure we plan to visit Hanganani School (one of the schools Koko sang at last year – during a sandstorm no less) and Mondesa Youth Organization (Lex taught there last year; and Engelhardt & Herman from Mascato currently works there). It’ll be great to see the children again! Can’t wait!
While Afroshine & Joel practiced, Scott, Megan & I finished off the evening by having dessert and appies at The Lighthouse Restaurant by the Swakop beach. Yummy place for food! Then the Walvis Bay peeps came to pick me up and we all headed home. Just another day in good ol’ Namibia. =)
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Wednesday, June 18th, 2008
Woke up early and left for town with Garthy today. I wanted to check out this relatively new Internet café in Walvis Bay called, The Ultra Lounge. According to Garth, they have the most reliable Internet service here, which means a little more money, but I’m willing to splurge. Haha… perhaps this will encourage me to be consistent with my blogging, since the typically slow Internet connection in Africa was what deterred me from blogging during last year’s Africa tour. So far so good though.
Next, I went to watch my Sunshine Kids perform at Walvis Bay Interschool Music Festival at the Civic Centre. It was a show organized by Mrs. Holst, who also works with Mrs. Venter and Mascato. The concert was very casual… more like a sharing session. It involved all the primary schools here in Walvis Bay. (All the secondary schools will perform at tomorrow evening’s concert.) My kidlets went first. They were oh-so-cute, but also very nervous. Haha… still they were able to win the crowd over with their effort and radiance. Ganbow, one of my sweet Sunshine Kids, busted out some moves near the end of the song and made the audience go wild. Haha… I laughed my butt off too because he’s such a tiny little shrimp for a 5-year old. But hey, never underestimate this guy’s mad skillz yo! Heehee…
It was also nice to bump into Mr. Doller Brand, Tiophilia & Vera (Mascato’s accompanist) at this event as well. Yup! I’m in Walvis Bay for reals! Haha…
As I was heading towards Standard Bank to meet up with Garth during his lunchtime break, I caught sight of this cool Asian-esque top through the window of Truworths, a clothing shop here. I had half an hour to kill, so why the heck not right?! The top costed N$250, which is expensive by African standards, but only costed CAN$35 for me. So I bought it of course. Do I hear impulse shopper?! YES! My goodness! And yesterday, I was supposed to accompany Tania to Mr. Price (a favored clothing store amongst us choir peeps) for her to pick out some items. We went there and they didn’t have her sizes, so we left the store… Tania empty-handed and yours truly with two bags in hand! Hey, I had an excuse… I needed teacher clothes for the Fall yo. And why not invest in clothes here where the prices work out to my advantage. Still, I gotta start being very careful with this shopping habit. Haha! WHOA! Tangent! Yea, so obviously I got a call from Garth asking where I was because I totally lost tracking time trying on clothes and what not. He met me at Truworths instead and then we went for a lovely stroll in the park. My my, we sound like such an old couple… heehee… first walks on the beach, now strolls in the park. Whatevs… I LOVE IT!
Aight! So I caught a taxi home after our rendez-vous in the park. Garth was all worried that I might not know how to find my way home. Haha… I told him I got it down yo! And if not, I would walk my way home. He looked skeptical but said, “Ok.” So I stood on the street waiting for any mini car that went *beep beep* to stop for me (that’s how cabbies get clients… honking their horns until they fill their taxis, otherwise the trip for one/two people wouldn’t be worth it). Side note: I asked Garth the other night how much it would cost to fill up a whole tank of gas here (‘cause most people only fill up a little bit at a time), and he said around N$400. He said that’d be like CAN$80! I guess gas prices are soaring all over the world, huh. Anyway, I had an interesting time directing the taxi driver since he couldn’t really hear me properly over his music. Then he realized that and turned it down. DUH-UH! See, cabbies here don’t usually know addresses unless the destination is a prominent building name/store somewhere. Residential addresses require step by step direction. My taxi experience so far ain’t too bad though. I like it. =)
Garth & I went to visit Cappi (Romano’s girlfriend) after he got off work. Cappi & Romano have a daughter named… *drum roll please*… MICHELLE!! Wow, I love that name for some reason. She is Garth’s goddaughter. Baby Michelle was resting when we arrived at the house. Poor child was sick with the flu, but Cappi still brought her out to visit with us. Aww… she was SO ADORABLE… even if a little under the weather. And she looks so much like Romano! She has his nose and his eyes fo’ sho! Anyway, I showed Michelle her baby bling! Heehee… just a few outfits I picked up for her when I was on the East Coast with Kokopelli. SO CUTE! She’s going to model them for me when she feels better. =)
Later that evening, there was an Afroshine rehearsal at Garth’s house. They were continuing to practice their tunes for the Windhoek show. As much as I wanted to stay up and watch them do their thang, jet lag still got to me so I retired early to bed. Still, it was nice to fall asleep to the sweet harmonic sounds of Afroshine singing Paradise Road. Mmm… sweet dreams.
Next, I went to watch my Sunshine Kids perform at Walvis Bay Interschool Music Festival at the Civic Centre. It was a show organized by Mrs. Holst, who also works with Mrs. Venter and Mascato. The concert was very casual… more like a sharing session. It involved all the primary schools here in Walvis Bay. (All the secondary schools will perform at tomorrow evening’s concert.) My kidlets went first. They were oh-so-cute, but also very nervous. Haha… still they were able to win the crowd over with their effort and radiance. Ganbow, one of my sweet Sunshine Kids, busted out some moves near the end of the song and made the audience go wild. Haha… I laughed my butt off too because he’s such a tiny little shrimp for a 5-year old. But hey, never underestimate this guy’s mad skillz yo! Heehee…
It was also nice to bump into Mr. Doller Brand, Tiophilia & Vera (Mascato’s accompanist) at this event as well. Yup! I’m in Walvis Bay for reals! Haha…
As I was heading towards Standard Bank to meet up with Garth during his lunchtime break, I caught sight of this cool Asian-esque top through the window of Truworths, a clothing shop here. I had half an hour to kill, so why the heck not right?! The top costed N$250, which is expensive by African standards, but only costed CAN$35 for me. So I bought it of course. Do I hear impulse shopper?! YES! My goodness! And yesterday, I was supposed to accompany Tania to Mr. Price (a favored clothing store amongst us choir peeps) for her to pick out some items. We went there and they didn’t have her sizes, so we left the store… Tania empty-handed and yours truly with two bags in hand! Hey, I had an excuse… I needed teacher clothes for the Fall yo. And why not invest in clothes here where the prices work out to my advantage. Still, I gotta start being very careful with this shopping habit. Haha! WHOA! Tangent! Yea, so obviously I got a call from Garth asking where I was because I totally lost tracking time trying on clothes and what not. He met me at Truworths instead and then we went for a lovely stroll in the park. My my, we sound like such an old couple… heehee… first walks on the beach, now strolls in the park. Whatevs… I LOVE IT!
Aight! So I caught a taxi home after our rendez-vous in the park. Garth was all worried that I might not know how to find my way home. Haha… I told him I got it down yo! And if not, I would walk my way home. He looked skeptical but said, “Ok.” So I stood on the street waiting for any mini car that went *beep beep* to stop for me (that’s how cabbies get clients… honking their horns until they fill their taxis, otherwise the trip for one/two people wouldn’t be worth it). Side note: I asked Garth the other night how much it would cost to fill up a whole tank of gas here (‘cause most people only fill up a little bit at a time), and he said around N$400. He said that’d be like CAN$80! I guess gas prices are soaring all over the world, huh. Anyway, I had an interesting time directing the taxi driver since he couldn’t really hear me properly over his music. Then he realized that and turned it down. DUH-UH! See, cabbies here don’t usually know addresses unless the destination is a prominent building name/store somewhere. Residential addresses require step by step direction. My taxi experience so far ain’t too bad though. I like it. =)
Garth & I went to visit Cappi (Romano’s girlfriend) after he got off work. Cappi & Romano have a daughter named… *drum roll please*… MICHELLE!! Wow, I love that name for some reason. She is Garth’s goddaughter. Baby Michelle was resting when we arrived at the house. Poor child was sick with the flu, but Cappi still brought her out to visit with us. Aww… she was SO ADORABLE… even if a little under the weather. And she looks so much like Romano! She has his nose and his eyes fo’ sho! Anyway, I showed Michelle her baby bling! Heehee… just a few outfits I picked up for her when I was on the East Coast with Kokopelli. SO CUTE! She’s going to model them for me when she feels better. =)
Later that evening, there was an Afroshine rehearsal at Garth’s house. They were continuing to practice their tunes for the Windhoek show. As much as I wanted to stay up and watch them do their thang, jet lag still got to me so I retired early to bed. Still, it was nice to fall asleep to the sweet harmonic sounds of Afroshine singing Paradise Road. Mmm… sweet dreams.
Tuesday, June 17th, 2008
YAY! I got to see my Sunshine Kids again today! Sadly a few of my favorite ones have moved to different parts of Namibia, but it was still a joy to be amongst the rest of the kidlets and staff. I went there thinking that the kids wouldn’t remember me since most of them were so young last year, but I was overwhelmed by the embraces and welcoming. The children literally started crawling, walking, climbing towards me. What a sight. What a warm feeling to be remembered. That made me realize then and there that I would like to start volunteering here again pronto. So next week it is! Ima gonna be a Sunshine Mommy once again!
Random encounter… I saw Dolfie this afternoon as Aunty Jocelyn & I were driving out to town. Since we just passed by him in his van (aka combi), we only had enough time to eagerly wave at each other. He actually lives down the street from Garth, but he’s usually out working or something, so Garth and him rarely run into each other. How lucky I was to have run into him then! Heehee… it just feels so cool, you know, to actually know people and places here. I could almost fool the locals, except for the fact that I am so Asian. ;p
Afroshine & I drove to Swakopmund again this evening, this time to visit Joel & Megan, who lives at Scooty’s abode. Afroshine & Joel had to discuss and practice some music biznazz for this show in Windhoek on June 30th. They’re going to be performing at this warehouse place with Afrodisiac – a reknowned band here. Should be pretty sweet ‘cause they have some nice tunes lined up to sing. I can’t wait to see the guys in action! The bunch of us are going to head up to Windhoek this weekend to rehearse at the venue and meet the rest of the band there. That means, ROADTRIP! WOOT! Yay, I could visit some Windhoek friends then too! I wonder if Marcie, Sandra, Fennie, Tula & McDonald will be there? Hmm… then again, there will also be a Mascato rehearsal in Swakop then. Oh well, we’ll see…
Random encounter… I saw Dolfie this afternoon as Aunty Jocelyn & I were driving out to town. Since we just passed by him in his van (aka combi), we only had enough time to eagerly wave at each other. He actually lives down the street from Garth, but he’s usually out working or something, so Garth and him rarely run into each other. How lucky I was to have run into him then! Heehee… it just feels so cool, you know, to actually know people and places here. I could almost fool the locals, except for the fact that I am so Asian. ;p
Afroshine & I drove to Swakopmund again this evening, this time to visit Joel & Megan, who lives at Scooty’s abode. Afroshine & Joel had to discuss and practice some music biznazz for this show in Windhoek on June 30th. They’re going to be performing at this warehouse place with Afrodisiac – a reknowned band here. Should be pretty sweet ‘cause they have some nice tunes lined up to sing. I can’t wait to see the guys in action! The bunch of us are going to head up to Windhoek this weekend to rehearse at the venue and meet the rest of the band there. That means, ROADTRIP! WOOT! Yay, I could visit some Windhoek friends then too! I wonder if Marcie, Sandra, Fennie, Tula & McDonald will be there? Hmm… then again, there will also be a Mascato rehearsal in Swakop then. Oh well, we’ll see…
Monday, June 16th, 2008
Nothing too crazy planned today. I thought I’d take this week pretty chill and reorient myself to my surroundings because the vibe in Narraville, Walvis Bay, Namibia is so not like Edmonton. Very small town chill if you know what I mean.
I washed up and decided to walk to Tania & Theo’s house, which is just around the corner from Garth’s. Both Garth and Theo were working so Tania & I got to spend some quality time together catching up on our lives. I also got to meet my godson face-to-face for the very first time!! His name is Valentino, Theo & Tania’s toddler. oOooo… he turns two this Friday so I must look for a cool present for him. =) Heehee… we spent some time digging through and showing off the souvenirs I got for the Cooksons. ‘Tino loved his shirt so much, he simply refused to take it off! He looked so cute in the T (which currently looks like a dress on him, but he’ll grow into it)! ;-)
Then Tania and I just walked around Narraville and visited some friends of hers here and there. It was a laid back afternoon of meeting new acquaintances. At some point during our excursion however, I was suddenly overcome with sleep. Must’ve been jet lag, but I thought I had already adjusted fine. Apparently not. I returned home for a nap.
OOOOO HEY! I got an African cell number today too! That happened after my nap and before Aunty Jocelyn & I went to pick up Garth from work. My digits are +264813859152… numbers that make no sense at all, but whatevs, it’s only temporary anyway. Or if you wanna call from Canada (ahem ahem… this is FYI for my family), just add 011 at the beginning of the number. So yeah… feel free to text me! It would be nice to hear from you all! I love getting texts out of the blue. It makes me feel connected with my Canadian peeps. *hint hint* ;-)
Later that night, Garth & I drove out to Swakopmund again. He, Theo, Tiophilia & Ailly had a rehearsal with Mr. Berins & his wife. This was for the musical coming up in September. The musical is a story about a stone mason who wants to be things that he’s not, hence the title “Wannabe.” From what I’ve seen of the rehearsal so far, this show looks very promising. Too dern bad I’m not gonna be here to see it yo! That just sucks! The show will take place in the first week of September in Windhoek. Sigh… at that time I’ll be preoccupied with my first week of teaching!!! Like real teaching in a classroom with kids! AY CARAMBA! Kinda nervous about that, but I will always try to have a good time with it. Otay… tangent. Anyway, I can’t wait to see more of the musical rehearsals, since that’ll be the only taste of it that I’ll get. Even more exciting, I can’t wait to see all my MasKoko peeps again!!! WEEE!
I washed up and decided to walk to Tania & Theo’s house, which is just around the corner from Garth’s. Both Garth and Theo were working so Tania & I got to spend some quality time together catching up on our lives. I also got to meet my godson face-to-face for the very first time!! His name is Valentino, Theo & Tania’s toddler. oOooo… he turns two this Friday so I must look for a cool present for him. =) Heehee… we spent some time digging through and showing off the souvenirs I got for the Cooksons. ‘Tino loved his shirt so much, he simply refused to take it off! He looked so cute in the T (which currently looks like a dress on him, but he’ll grow into it)! ;-)
Then Tania and I just walked around Narraville and visited some friends of hers here and there. It was a laid back afternoon of meeting new acquaintances. At some point during our excursion however, I was suddenly overcome with sleep. Must’ve been jet lag, but I thought I had already adjusted fine. Apparently not. I returned home for a nap.
OOOOO HEY! I got an African cell number today too! That happened after my nap and before Aunty Jocelyn & I went to pick up Garth from work. My digits are +264813859152… numbers that make no sense at all, but whatevs, it’s only temporary anyway. Or if you wanna call from Canada (ahem ahem… this is FYI for my family), just add 011 at the beginning of the number. So yeah… feel free to text me! It would be nice to hear from you all! I love getting texts out of the blue. It makes me feel connected with my Canadian peeps. *hint hint* ;-)
Later that night, Garth & I drove out to Swakopmund again. He, Theo, Tiophilia & Ailly had a rehearsal with Mr. Berins & his wife. This was for the musical coming up in September. The musical is a story about a stone mason who wants to be things that he’s not, hence the title “Wannabe.” From what I’ve seen of the rehearsal so far, this show looks very promising. Too dern bad I’m not gonna be here to see it yo! That just sucks! The show will take place in the first week of September in Windhoek. Sigh… at that time I’ll be preoccupied with my first week of teaching!!! Like real teaching in a classroom with kids! AY CARAMBA! Kinda nervous about that, but I will always try to have a good time with it. Otay… tangent. Anyway, I can’t wait to see more of the musical rehearsals, since that’ll be the only taste of it that I’ll get. Even more exciting, I can’t wait to see all my MasKoko peeps again!!! WEEE!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
More travels & the ARRIVAL!
Friday, June 14th… still up in the air. Woot woot (note the wonderful enthusiasm). The gentleman sitting beside me this time was a jolly bald man who recently moved from England to Pretoria, South Africa for work. This guy reminded me of the Wally the Walrus (I think that’s his name) animation character (from some cartoon… Woody Woodpecker? Chilly the Penguin? Haha… whatever). He was the ambassador of VSO, this European charity organization. That totally peaked my interests because I love volunteering, so wanted to find out more about what he did. I told him about my teaching and traveling aspirations and he suggested that I check out CUSO, which was the Canadian equivalent of VSO. He said that they pay for volunteers to travel to places around the world to teach, work in the communities, and yada yada else. Though volunteers don’t get a salary, they get paid a humble stipend for food and accommodation. Then it dawned on me that was all one really needed to survive. I would love to be a part of something like that. Still, I will do more research to be sure. I mean, “paid” volunteers?? BAHAHA… it’s just too good to be true, no?
Anyway, the rest of the flight wasn’t as unbearable as I thought it could have been. Thank God for that! Plus, the sleep that I lacked from Edmonton to London, I regained during this long flight. Also, thank goodness for that! Finally, 8:15am on Sunday, June 15th, I arrived in the Johannesburg Airport. HOORAY! Only one more flight to go before I see Namibia and my afro peeps again!
Trying to check in my bag for the next flight transfer now. This guy made me put my luggage on this weigh thingy majigger and told me that my suitcase was too heavy. I said, “Oh really?” and acted all clueless. The guy responded, “To where are you going?” “Walvis Bay, Namibia” “So the ring on your finger tells me that you are married.” “Yes, I am” “I want to go with you.” Man! I wanted to burst out, “As if! In your dreams.” Haha! But I held my tongue and simply said, “But my luggage is already too heavy, and you simply won’t fit in it, Sir. I’m sorry.” Then he laughed and started singing a bit of an African diddly, which gave me a quick subject to change to, “So, you’re a singer eh?!” Haha… long story short… he finally let me pass with my heavy luggage and all (he wrote a false weight on the slip which I had to present to the check-in attendant). I was SO GRATEFUL to have gotten away from that awkward scenario, but before I left the scene, I had to turn around and smile apologetically at the long line-up behind me while this coco-loco dude was trying to woo me with his African “machismo.” BAHAHA… I pity the foo’! And all those onlookers who had to witness our funny banter.
K, checked in now. First things first… find a washroom! If you can imagine two straight days of air travel… not so fresh yo. I didn’t give a care how I looked amongst strangers, but now it was time to gussy up a little and make myself presentable… heehee. So I found a conveniently empty baby changing/feeding room in the Women’s washroom and hogged the spot immediately. *Disclaimer: no milk bursting mommies or hungry babies were harmed during the grooming of Michelle.* As I was freshening up, my sanctuary was barged into twice by two Custodian ladies in the time span of 5 minutes. I didn’t mind ‘cause this meant that the staff was pretty on top of the washroom’s cleanliness. What I found peculiar was that one of the ladies actually stayed in the mini one person room with me and shut the door behind us. GULP! This was strange ‘cause I was in the midst of brushing my teeth. Then she proceeded to check herself out in the mirror. She lifted up her uniform top a little to adjust her pants and then she looked at me in the mirror and smiled. I gave her an awkward toothpaste-ful grin in return and then she stepped out. HOW BIZARRE!
Last stretch now… 2.5 hours until I reach the Walvis Bay airport! oOooo… almost there! EEEEE! The jet to Walvis Bay was very small. I totally overestimated its size however because I clubbed my head thrice on the overhead cubbies. Sheesh… I think I lost a few brain cells there. Haha… the other passengers probably thought I was on something ‘cause one would think NOT to club your head again after the first time. WHAT-EVER. Be an original, I say. Or avoid eye contact and return to your seat immediately. Both works. ;-p
1:30pm on Sunday, June 15th, I finally made it to my destination!!! Oh how I was screaming with glee inside, but still I maintained a very calm, controlled and collected exterior. Haha… remain cool yo. Word. Anyway, as I was lining up to hand in my landing pass, I peripherally noticed a long-haired red head wearing the same Lulu jacket I was wearing. Didn’t think anything about it, when it dawned on me, “Lulu in Africa?” I turn my head to discover the girl staring at my face as well. Then there was 5 seconds of silence between us (which is a long time if you’re just staring at someone’s face), when we suddenly screamed simultaneously, “OH MY GOD! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!! I CAN’T BELIEVE IT!!!” It was Megan Anderson from my choir whom had just arrived on another flight. I knew she was coming to Walvis Bay too, but I didn’t expect it to be right then and there. What was funny was that it took us such a delay to recognize and orient each other. Haha… travel does that to people sometimes, I suppose. Wow. What a pleasant surprise!
At the airport I was greeted by Garth (of course), Joel (of course), Theo & Tania & their oh-so-adorable son, Valentino. The weather here was unexpectedly warm, since it was supposedly winter and all in Africa. But I wasn’t complaining. We popped home first for me to give Aunty Jocelyn a hug (Garth’s mom). Then Garth and I dropped Joel and Megan off in Swakopmund. Then we went to visit his father since it was Father’s Day and all. We did our greetings, had a nice chat, and left. It was nice to be back among familiar faces.
Garth and I decided to take advantage of the lovely weather because the weather here was also very unpredictable, so the next day could be foggy and windy or whatever. Anyway, we took a stroll along the Swakopmund Beach. I must admit, with the salty fresh ocean air brushing against my face, sand running between my toes, the blue blue sky above, the sunset beyond the horizon, and Garth Prinsonsky by my side, I felt really complete in that moment. Sigh… it was nice to be back indeed. Swakopmund is very beautiful and I think I will enjoy the laid back atmosphere for the next two months.
Sigh… romantic moment out of the way, we went to Superspar next for me to pick up some toiletries and then we paid a visit to Mrs. Venter. It was so nice to see her again and sit in her living room chatting it up. We spent a few hours at her house enjoying each other’s company. Haha… I guess Garth noticed that I started blinking gradually slower and slower (aka I was falling asleep). We made the move to head back to Walvis Bay.
Phew! What a day already. I got to see some really special people in my life and enjoy a beautiful day in Swakopmund with my fiancé. That is the life. For now, I must… zzzZZZzzz…
Anyway, the rest of the flight wasn’t as unbearable as I thought it could have been. Thank God for that! Plus, the sleep that I lacked from Edmonton to London, I regained during this long flight. Also, thank goodness for that! Finally, 8:15am on Sunday, June 15th, I arrived in the Johannesburg Airport. HOORAY! Only one more flight to go before I see Namibia and my afro peeps again!
Trying to check in my bag for the next flight transfer now. This guy made me put my luggage on this weigh thingy majigger and told me that my suitcase was too heavy. I said, “Oh really?” and acted all clueless. The guy responded, “To where are you going?” “Walvis Bay, Namibia” “So the ring on your finger tells me that you are married.” “Yes, I am” “I want to go with you.” Man! I wanted to burst out, “As if! In your dreams.” Haha! But I held my tongue and simply said, “But my luggage is already too heavy, and you simply won’t fit in it, Sir. I’m sorry.” Then he laughed and started singing a bit of an African diddly, which gave me a quick subject to change to, “So, you’re a singer eh?!” Haha… long story short… he finally let me pass with my heavy luggage and all (he wrote a false weight on the slip which I had to present to the check-in attendant). I was SO GRATEFUL to have gotten away from that awkward scenario, but before I left the scene, I had to turn around and smile apologetically at the long line-up behind me while this coco-loco dude was trying to woo me with his African “machismo.” BAHAHA… I pity the foo’! And all those onlookers who had to witness our funny banter.
K, checked in now. First things first… find a washroom! If you can imagine two straight days of air travel… not so fresh yo. I didn’t give a care how I looked amongst strangers, but now it was time to gussy up a little and make myself presentable… heehee. So I found a conveniently empty baby changing/feeding room in the Women’s washroom and hogged the spot immediately. *Disclaimer: no milk bursting mommies or hungry babies were harmed during the grooming of Michelle.* As I was freshening up, my sanctuary was barged into twice by two Custodian ladies in the time span of 5 minutes. I didn’t mind ‘cause this meant that the staff was pretty on top of the washroom’s cleanliness. What I found peculiar was that one of the ladies actually stayed in the mini one person room with me and shut the door behind us. GULP! This was strange ‘cause I was in the midst of brushing my teeth. Then she proceeded to check herself out in the mirror. She lifted up her uniform top a little to adjust her pants and then she looked at me in the mirror and smiled. I gave her an awkward toothpaste-ful grin in return and then she stepped out. HOW BIZARRE!
Last stretch now… 2.5 hours until I reach the Walvis Bay airport! oOooo… almost there! EEEEE! The jet to Walvis Bay was very small. I totally overestimated its size however because I clubbed my head thrice on the overhead cubbies. Sheesh… I think I lost a few brain cells there. Haha… the other passengers probably thought I was on something ‘cause one would think NOT to club your head again after the first time. WHAT-EVER. Be an original, I say. Or avoid eye contact and return to your seat immediately. Both works. ;-p
1:30pm on Sunday, June 15th, I finally made it to my destination!!! Oh how I was screaming with glee inside, but still I maintained a very calm, controlled and collected exterior. Haha… remain cool yo. Word. Anyway, as I was lining up to hand in my landing pass, I peripherally noticed a long-haired red head wearing the same Lulu jacket I was wearing. Didn’t think anything about it, when it dawned on me, “Lulu in Africa?” I turn my head to discover the girl staring at my face as well. Then there was 5 seconds of silence between us (which is a long time if you’re just staring at someone’s face), when we suddenly screamed simultaneously, “OH MY GOD! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!! I CAN’T BELIEVE IT!!!” It was Megan Anderson from my choir whom had just arrived on another flight. I knew she was coming to Walvis Bay too, but I didn’t expect it to be right then and there. What was funny was that it took us such a delay to recognize and orient each other. Haha… travel does that to people sometimes, I suppose. Wow. What a pleasant surprise!
At the airport I was greeted by Garth (of course), Joel (of course), Theo & Tania & their oh-so-adorable son, Valentino. The weather here was unexpectedly warm, since it was supposedly winter and all in Africa. But I wasn’t complaining. We popped home first for me to give Aunty Jocelyn a hug (Garth’s mom). Then Garth and I dropped Joel and Megan off in Swakopmund. Then we went to visit his father since it was Father’s Day and all. We did our greetings, had a nice chat, and left. It was nice to be back among familiar faces.
Garth and I decided to take advantage of the lovely weather because the weather here was also very unpredictable, so the next day could be foggy and windy or whatever. Anyway, we took a stroll along the Swakopmund Beach. I must admit, with the salty fresh ocean air brushing against my face, sand running between my toes, the blue blue sky above, the sunset beyond the horizon, and Garth Prinsonsky by my side, I felt really complete in that moment. Sigh… it was nice to be back indeed. Swakopmund is very beautiful and I think I will enjoy the laid back atmosphere for the next two months.
Sigh… romantic moment out of the way, we went to Superspar next for me to pick up some toiletries and then we paid a visit to Mrs. Venter. It was so nice to see her again and sit in her living room chatting it up. We spent a few hours at her house enjoying each other’s company. Haha… I guess Garth noticed that I started blinking gradually slower and slower (aka I was falling asleep). We made the move to head back to Walvis Bay.
Phew! What a day already. I got to see some really special people in my life and enjoy a beautiful day in Swakopmund with my fiancé. That is the life. For now, I must… zzzZZZzzz…
I'm BAAA-AAACK!!
Hellooo from Walvis Bay, Namibia! It has been such a surreal experience to be back in this land. Wow… as if I never left. The people and places are generally the same, and I am able to jump right in as if this is my second home away from home. Haha… and in a way, it is.
So, this time around, I have made a personal vow to improve my blogging skills. Haha… they were cut pretty short last summer when I was here, but that’s a different story (refer to last year’s post, if you please). So here goes…
Friday the 13th of June... dun-dUN-DUN! I finished packing less than one hour before I had to leave to catch my Sky Shuttle to the airport. No surprise there… I was actually impressed I was finished packing so early! Heehee… ;-p Made my phone calls, said my goodbyes, then I was off to catch the shuttle. Just as I was locking the door of my house, Mr. Garth Prinsonsky messaged me. Haha… what impeccable timing. I swear he must have a spy cam on me or something… or shall we call it lovers’ instincts? Eish… sappy, nevermind. Still, it was a sweet moment to know that I will get to see him and everyone else very soon. =)
Waiting at the Westin Hotel for my ride, out of the corner of my eye I saw Ruth Stubbings from choir last year! Crazy nuts! I totally didn’t expect that. I haven’t seen her for a while since she moved back to Regina, but now she’s here, so cool. It was such a pleasure to catch up with her. Then my friend Nicole from school came to say buh-bye too. At the airport, I yakked it up with Trina, before I entered the Departure gates. I also called my mom again to tell her that , “This time, I’m REALLY going to be off now.” I could tell she was holding back tears. Haha… oh Mama loves me too much… acting as if I won’t come back or something. Don’t be a worry wart. I’ll miss you and see you again soon, Ma.
On the flight from Edmonton to London, I had my own two-seater row yo… by the Exit too, which meant more leg room! I thought, “SWEET! Now I can really stretch and fly easy!” That is until the Flight Attendant moved a gentleman to sit by me. There went my happy bubble. But hey, then I found out this guy was coincidentally from Halifax of all places. Chuck was his name. Kokopelli just finished an East Coast tour too, so I was all up with that! We just chatted about places on the East Coast for a few hours. Haha… small talk. Then I chatted up a storm with a random lady who was a world-traveling teacher (so cool) whilst waiting in the line-up for the washroom, watched Jumper (cool movie) and Mad Money (amusing movie) and had some crappy aero food (go figure), and then fell asleep… sort of. Sheesh, those who know me, knows that I can fall asleep ANYTIME, ANYWHERE... thanks to my Asian genes, according to Jenica. But for some reason, I was having a heck of a time dozing off on this Air Canada flight. THAT was strange for me. Am I losing my flow yo?? Sigh… eventually, I think I was able to get 4 hours shut-eye or so. Shocking indeed. =O
Blah blah blah… so now I’ve arrived at the London Heathrow airport. I acted all cool and knowing, telling my plane buddy from Halifax that I’ve been here before and am quite familiar with the airport. After a few turns in circles trying to find our next departure gates, did I realize that I was talking about the London Gatwick airport the whole time! Oy vey… I’ve never even been to the Heathrow one. What a silly goofball I was. So, he and I were airport newbies together. WOOT! We ate at Pret a Manger (neat food-to-go chain in London), chatted, and killed time. This Chuck from Halifax had the wild idea of playing cards. Haha… of course the first question that popped out of my mouth was, “Do you know how to play Dutch Blitz?!!” because… HELLoOo… it’s the bestest card game ever!! A fact! Ask my fellow choir Dutch Blitz playing posse yo! They’ll tell you how it is. ;-p Of course, being the age of my dad that he was, he taught me how to play Crib instead, which he spent hours learning from his Grandma apparently. Do I hear fun, fun, fun seasons in the sun?! Haha… it wasn’t so bad though. I enjoyed learning a new game and it did pass the time. I lost, of course, but he said I was really good for a beginning Crib player. Go me!
K, so it was time to go our own ways now. He offered to pay for my meal, and I felt it was weird to accept that gesture from a stranger after all, so I gave him an Afroshine single in return. Haha… thanks Garthy! No need to bust out London poundage when I didn’t have to. ;-)
Aight! Now I was on my own. Got through a terminal and was ready to go when I realize that the info on my ticket didn’t match the flight schedule on display. What the?! But they let me through Security and everything already, so that was weird. I asked around and they realize that I was actually in the wrong terminal. YIKES! So the lady who let me pass Security got in trouble for being so careless (sorry lady, didn’t mean to get you into caca) and I got redirected to the correct departure gate. Good thing I gauged my time so that I had plenty of it for unforeseen booboos like this. Boy was it a good thing ‘cause let’s just say I had good exercise trekking across the Heathrow airport yo. Phew!
Otay. Next flight… London to Johannesburg… 11 hours… on South African Airways (reknowned for its little leg space)… NUF SED! Boy was I looking forward to this stretch of the trip. BLEH!
So, this time around, I have made a personal vow to improve my blogging skills. Haha… they were cut pretty short last summer when I was here, but that’s a different story (refer to last year’s post, if you please). So here goes…
Friday the 13th of June... dun-dUN-DUN! I finished packing less than one hour before I had to leave to catch my Sky Shuttle to the airport. No surprise there… I was actually impressed I was finished packing so early! Heehee… ;-p Made my phone calls, said my goodbyes, then I was off to catch the shuttle. Just as I was locking the door of my house, Mr. Garth Prinsonsky messaged me. Haha… what impeccable timing. I swear he must have a spy cam on me or something… or shall we call it lovers’ instincts? Eish… sappy, nevermind. Still, it was a sweet moment to know that I will get to see him and everyone else very soon. =)
Waiting at the Westin Hotel for my ride, out of the corner of my eye I saw Ruth Stubbings from choir last year! Crazy nuts! I totally didn’t expect that. I haven’t seen her for a while since she moved back to Regina, but now she’s here, so cool. It was such a pleasure to catch up with her. Then my friend Nicole from school came to say buh-bye too. At the airport, I yakked it up with Trina, before I entered the Departure gates. I also called my mom again to tell her that , “This time, I’m REALLY going to be off now.” I could tell she was holding back tears. Haha… oh Mama loves me too much… acting as if I won’t come back or something. Don’t be a worry wart. I’ll miss you and see you again soon, Ma.
On the flight from Edmonton to London, I had my own two-seater row yo… by the Exit too, which meant more leg room! I thought, “SWEET! Now I can really stretch and fly easy!” That is until the Flight Attendant moved a gentleman to sit by me. There went my happy bubble. But hey, then I found out this guy was coincidentally from Halifax of all places. Chuck was his name. Kokopelli just finished an East Coast tour too, so I was all up with that! We just chatted about places on the East Coast for a few hours. Haha… small talk. Then I chatted up a storm with a random lady who was a world-traveling teacher (so cool) whilst waiting in the line-up for the washroom, watched Jumper (cool movie) and Mad Money (amusing movie) and had some crappy aero food (go figure), and then fell asleep… sort of. Sheesh, those who know me, knows that I can fall asleep ANYTIME, ANYWHERE... thanks to my Asian genes, according to Jenica. But for some reason, I was having a heck of a time dozing off on this Air Canada flight. THAT was strange for me. Am I losing my flow yo?? Sigh… eventually, I think I was able to get 4 hours shut-eye or so. Shocking indeed. =O
Blah blah blah… so now I’ve arrived at the London Heathrow airport. I acted all cool and knowing, telling my plane buddy from Halifax that I’ve been here before and am quite familiar with the airport. After a few turns in circles trying to find our next departure gates, did I realize that I was talking about the London Gatwick airport the whole time! Oy vey… I’ve never even been to the Heathrow one. What a silly goofball I was. So, he and I were airport newbies together. WOOT! We ate at Pret a Manger (neat food-to-go chain in London), chatted, and killed time. This Chuck from Halifax had the wild idea of playing cards. Haha… of course the first question that popped out of my mouth was, “Do you know how to play Dutch Blitz?!!” because… HELLoOo… it’s the bestest card game ever!! A fact! Ask my fellow choir Dutch Blitz playing posse yo! They’ll tell you how it is. ;-p Of course, being the age of my dad that he was, he taught me how to play Crib instead, which he spent hours learning from his Grandma apparently. Do I hear fun, fun, fun seasons in the sun?! Haha… it wasn’t so bad though. I enjoyed learning a new game and it did pass the time. I lost, of course, but he said I was really good for a beginning Crib player. Go me!
K, so it was time to go our own ways now. He offered to pay for my meal, and I felt it was weird to accept that gesture from a stranger after all, so I gave him an Afroshine single in return. Haha… thanks Garthy! No need to bust out London poundage when I didn’t have to. ;-)
Aight! Now I was on my own. Got through a terminal and was ready to go when I realize that the info on my ticket didn’t match the flight schedule on display. What the?! But they let me through Security and everything already, so that was weird. I asked around and they realize that I was actually in the wrong terminal. YIKES! So the lady who let me pass Security got in trouble for being so careless (sorry lady, didn’t mean to get you into caca) and I got redirected to the correct departure gate. Good thing I gauged my time so that I had plenty of it for unforeseen booboos like this. Boy was it a good thing ‘cause let’s just say I had good exercise trekking across the Heathrow airport yo. Phew!
Otay. Next flight… London to Johannesburg… 11 hours… on South African Airways (reknowned for its little leg space)… NUF SED! Boy was I looking forward to this stretch of the trip. BLEH!
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