The Long Way Home

Kelly has been after me to write about our experiences coming home so you will all know that we did arrive safely back in the United States and eventually to Russiaville.

After I posted on Tuesday night, I receved an email from the US Embassy in Liberia.  I had written them earlier when all the flights out of Liberia were canceled and it appeared that we would be in Liberia for some time - at least until April 15th when Brussels airlines was to resume service ( as we now know that is not going to happen).  We were all packed and ready to move out to the "Kumeh Compound" in Bardnersville on Wednesday to await word on our return.

Back to the email.  The Embassy wanted all our information:  Name, Passport #, Address in Liberia, address in the US, phone numbers, and emergency notification information.  I completed all that and returned it immediately.  I also registered us with the Department of State Foreign Travel Service.

Wednesday morning, I went upstairs to have breakfast and Timothy remained in our hotel room catching a few more winks before we would leave to go out to Bardnersville.  About 9:30 am he came up the stairs carrying his phone saying that the Embassy had called.  I called them back and was told they would be having an medical evacuation plane leaving for the US that night.  Did we have any medical issues and/or were we over the age of 60? When I told them our ages, we were informed that we qualified for the flight.  Were our bags packed?  We could only 2 two each and one very small purse/bag for carryon as there would not be room for anything larger.  Answer: Yes.  We were to be at the Embassy promptly at 11:00 am to complete additional paperwork and sign a promisary note for the cost of our flight.  We were to be at the airport promtly at 8:00 pm and the plane should fly out about midnight.    While individuals with the virus  and another critically ill person without the virus would be on board they would be in isolation.

I immediately called Jeff to come and get us and take us to the Embassy.  By this time it was 10 am and he said that he would leave immediately.  We would be cutting it close but could make it on time.  However, about 10:30, Jeff called to tell us he was caught up in traffic and would not make it.
I told him we would call a taxi and leave our luggage at the hotel.  He could pick it up and then meet us at the Embassy when we were finished.  At least that was the plan.

The hotel clerk called a friend of his who did transport and he arrived about 10:50.  My anxiety level was climbing as we attempted to tell him where we were going - the Main Entrance of the US Embassy.  Well....he took the long way around, got lost twice around the Embassy and finally when I told him across from the Masonic Temple he was able to get us there.  This was about 11:15.  He was really upset with us and took all the Liberian money we had.  I think it was nearly $10 USD.
We went to the door and dutifully washed our hands only to be told that we must wait outside and only one could enter at a time.  OK - no choice but to wait.  Several others arrived with appointments as well.  When it came our turn, a lady tried to move in front of us because she was only 1 and we were two.  However, the guard said that since we were together we could enter. 

Security check: no phone, no camera, no keys, no knitting needles, no coins, nothing metal, etc. etc.  I asked if they just wanted to take my bag but they didn't have room for that.  I proceeded to empty my bag and put everything in a locker and carry the empty bag into the Embassy.  We went through 2 more security checks and then were give more paperwork to complete with the same information that we had given earlier.  We weren't able to give them phone numbers because our phones were locked up when we entered.  We were told "No problem".  With the papers completed and a promisary note in the amount of $1400 each, we were able to leave with the knowledge we had a place on the flight and again to be at the airport promptly at 8:00 pm.  We were to take something to eat and water because nothing would be available on the flight.  (All this in a small bag.  Uh huh!)

As we were leaving a family was at the security desk with the information that one of them was old and infirm and needed someone to accompany him on the flight.  He had his son, daughter in law, and two grandchildren he wanted to take with him.  Later, we did not see him at the airport so apparently he was not able to take all the family.

Jeff was waiting for us as we left and we headed out the Bardnersville.  Once there we had to explain to the children and grandchildren that we would not be staying after all and would be leaving by 6 pm to get to the airport on time.  The balance of the afternoon was spent sorting out things I wanted to leave and giving them to the proper people.  We had promised 2 of our grands our phones but we would need to keep them until we knew for sure we were flying.  I made us a couple of masks for some protection.  There was an incredible gas shortage and I gave Jeff $100 to fill up the jeep with gas to make the trip.  He ended up having to go three different places to get enough gas to make the trip.  He finally got back about 5:30.  With final tears and goodbys we were off.

It was amazing to see all the traffic and the lines at the gas stations we lined up for at least a half a mile down the street in each direction.  Some people had just parked their cars and left them.  Others were gathered with gas cans to get in lines for them as well.  While we were under a directive for no large groups and practicing distancing,  people congregated in clusters to discuss what was going on.
We were finally out on the highway and making our way to the airport.  It seemed to take forever and I passed the time looking for landmarks and seeing with amazement all the new construction that has taken place. 

As darkness fell, we finally reached the airport.  We were stopped at the gate, got out, washed our hands, and presented our passports to be examined by personnel and recorded.  The airport was dark as we entered and only Jeff, Timothy and myself could enter the airport proper.  The others in the car had to wait out in the entrance parking lot.   Security personnel told us "Yes, the plane was coming, No, they didn't know when. Go park in the inside parking lot."  So - we did.  Other cars were coming and soon we saw the lights of a little bar/cafe in one of the auxilary terminals.  Jeff went over and bought us soft drinks.  By 10 pm  the main terminal was still dark and I was getting hungry. We were able to go in and get some food.

About 11 pm the lights came on and we made our way to the main terminal.  By this time I was so worried about Jackie, Jeff's wife O.Z. and daughter being alone in the outer lot that I told Jeff to go on home.  We gave him our cell phones and waited in line.  Embassy personnel told us that if anyone had not signed paperwork at the Embassy earlier in the day, to leave the line and go home, for they would not be on the flight.  There were several who stepped out of the line but also several who remained in the line telling the Embassy personnel they had cause to be on the flight regardless if they had signed paperwork or not. 

We were then called by name to identify ourselves and asked to form another line to go through security before entering the airport.  At the same time we were admonished for standing too close together and to be at least 6 feet apart.  It was interesting to watch the people.  Most were Liberians who had American citizenship.  They felt a sense of entitlement and would push and shove their way forward in the lines.  I puzzled at the size of the bags they carried filled with all sorts of things including food, water, pillows, blankets, etc.  Timothy and I hung back just to watch and be safe. 

Later, we were called to enter and our bags scanned and passports checked at the entrance to the terminal.  Then a maze to enter to move from place to place again having passports checked, paperwork checked, yellow fever cards checked, visas checked and stamped, and final immigration check.  Our handheld items were examined and finally we were allowed to go upstairs to the waiting lounge.  All this was done keeping everyone at a safe distance apart. 

When we got upstairs to a large room we were directed where to sit.  At this point there was only one other white American with us.  I found out that he was a Baptist minister from Arkansas and had been there teaching Baptist pastors how to preach.   Later we were joined by US AID families who were also on the plane.  They had been kept separated from us and even given a separate place in the terminal.  We first heard the flight was to be at midnight, then 3 am and finally at 5 am we heard that it had just left the airport and was on its way to us.  That flight would be about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

While I was walking around to stretch my legs I talked with some of the US AID personnel.  Most of them were working in healthcare either training or monitoring.  Most of them had their families with them and the children really weren't aware of what was happening.  The children were still bright eyed and bushy tailed at that hour in the morning just due to the nervous energy.  Their laughter and playing helped to relieve some of the tension.

Finally the plane arrived and once again we lined up and passports were checked.  Having been separated during our wait, we were then loaded on a bus to go out to the plane.  It was a cargo place and huge.  We were greeted  by medical personnel outfitted in isolation suits with fitted headgear and a battery pack air filtration unit on their backs.  Tempertures were taken and recorded on a wrist band along with our seat assignment.    There was heavy black plastic taped up everywhere in the rear of the plane along with three toilets.  Two of which we could use and the other for the people isolation group.

Hand sanitizer and paper towels were the order of the day.  They were to be used before and after each trip to the toilet.   Farther into the plane were the seats which had been added.  I chuckled because they were so old they still had ashtrays built into the armrests from days long ago.  There was a large boxy unit with its own air filtration unit in front of us (presumably for the medical staff for storage) and beyond that was more black plastic.  It appeared that all this took up about half the space on the plane.  I have no idea where the virus patients or the critically ill patient were located.

For more information about the plane you can follow this link to the company who does the evacuation:  The inside of the aircraft is specially modified designed to transport highly contagious patients. The technology was created by Phoenix Air out of Georgia, at the request of federal agencies during the height of the Ebola outbreak in West Africa six years ago.

https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/ypsilanti-airline-used-for-coronavirus-evacuations-with-modified-planes

ReplyForward

We took off from Liberia at 8 am.  I later found out much later after we had reached the US that a text had been sent to my US phone that we did not have to be at the airport until midnight.  Such is life.  The Embassy personnel told us this was a very fluid situation and to be patient as we traveled.
Our flight took us to Lisbon where the flight crew would change and we would pick up some more Americans.  That portion of the flight would be 4 hours.  From there we would travel to Dulles Airport.  We would arrive at approximately 8:30 pm US time or 11:30 pm Liberian time.  We had been given a cold meal consisting of french fries and a turkey sandwich.  There was also plenty of water in coolers along the sides of the planes.  When we left Lisbon we were served a hot meal of beef, rice, bread, cheese, and a chocolate mousse.   Later we received a danish.  We did not go hungry.

Sleep, reading (I read an entire 2 story paperback), knitting and stetching our legs was the order of the day.  The medical personnel were upbeat and encouraging as we traveled.  We even played a couple of games of silent bingo where the numbers were written on large pieces of paper.  Prizes of candy were awarded and at the end each of us received an minature Hershey bar as a treat.

Upon landing at Dulles our temperatures were taken and recorded on our wristbands.  After being transported to the terminal we went through a immigration/customs/CDC processing and told we were to be in home isolation for 14 days.  The airport was empty as we gathered our luggage and Timothy and I decided to find a motel and spend the night and deal with getting to Indiana the next day.

We chose an Embassy Suites because the cost was about 75% less than their usual price and I knew we would be pampered.  They did not have a courtesy bus so we had to get a taxi.  Our driver would not take us anyplace until I had an actual address of the hotel.  My patience was running thin at this point but I managed to find it.  When we arrived the hotel was empty and the clerk on duty said they didn't have enough business to even pay the electric bill for the month.

After a hot shower, I made plane reservations to get us back to Indianapolis.  A good night's sleep and a sack breakfast the next morning we were ready to tackle the day.  Since we were flying out of Reagan airport I made arrangements with Uber to do the transport.  They didn't show up and I didn't even have the reservation on my phone.  So I made another one.  This time they made it and we were off to the airport.  We really didn't need to be there early since the airport again was deserted and we checked through very quickly. 

We grabbed some lunch and the flight personnel told us we could even take it on the plane with us if we wanted.  We chose not to.  When we left the airport there were only about 10 people on the plane.  It wasn't long before we touched down in Indianapolis.  We stopped to go to the restroom and by the time we reached the baggage claim, the only luggage left was ours.

Alan was waiting in the cell phone lot and it wasn't long before he arrived to carry us home.  He had stopped at the grocery for a few items I had requested and had those in a cooler in the back of the car.
Off to Russiaville we went and arrived about 7 pm.  After a snack of popcorn and cold water we were off to bed.

It was quite the adventure, but we were well cared for during the entire trip.  We thank God that we arrived safely and in good health.  Our isolation will end on Easter Sunday and we have been blessed to have groceries delivered and even a special delivery of Popcorn Cafe popcorn.  Thank you all for your prayers.  Stay in and stay safe. 

Tuesday, March 24th, 2020

Normally, today would have been out last full day in Liberia.  But --- as we know  ---nothing is normal anymore.  So, we gathered ourselves together and made the journey out to the Kumeh Compond in Bardnersville.  However, before we left, we had an opportunity to video chat with Kelly and the puppies.  They were trying to get at us when they heard our voices.  Everyone is doing well and much comforted in seeing the others in person to know they are OK.  I hope we are able to do it again soon.  It certainly raised my spirits.

The police were out today enforcing the rules they had made ealier regarding the number of people carried in the taxis and KaKas.  Taxis are a driver and one person in front and limit of 3 in the back.
KaKas are a driver and 2 passengers.  We saw a bus impounded for having too many people on the bus.  It is difficult to get around and many of the government offices are either closed or on a skeleton crew.  Some of the stores are closed and I anticipate even more will be closed in the near future.  It probably won't be long before many of the markets are closed as well.  Ozie went out today and purchased enough rice to last 2 months, plus other non-perishable items.  Charcoal has risen in price and there will not be anymore coming into Monrovia from the areas producing charcoal.  Even without a large number of cases, the effects are still felt in the city.  As of now, there are only 3 confirmed cases of the virus.  We are far removed from them but still exercise caution with hand washing.  Today Ozie and I got the sewing machine up and running with lots of help from Eziekiel, a nearby tailor.  Now to get used to it and get it broken in.  I managed in over an hour to complete one simple face mask.  Now that we know the construction techniques and how to the the machine moving we should be on a roll and able to make masks for members of the family should we need to go out.

Some of Timothy's friends are realizing he is here so he is often entertained by their visits.  Fred was here all afternoon which kept Timothy out of our hair while working on the sewing machine.  Ozie and I have some material and we want to start making a nine patch wall hanging so she is able to learn how it is done.  Even the children want to learn.  We shall see.

I did get an email from the US Embassy here in Liberia requesting information regarding our status, passport information and other information and our flight plans as they were to have been and now are canceled.  Whether or not we will be able to the return to the US by government transport remains to be seen.  We will wait -----

I was able to watch soap making today and had not seen how it was done.  It is a very hard ball of soap and is excellent for washing clothes.  It is known as "hard soap" and sells for $20 Liberian or about 10 cents US.  A soft drink in a bottle is $200 LD or $1.00 USD, and gas is 3 gallons for $10 USD.  The price fluctuates depending on the availabilty.  I was able to get 2 yards of elastic for $20 LD and a bottle of water is $150 LD   It is interesting to see what the difference is in pricing.

 About 6 pm we returned back to the hotel for our last night before moving out to the family place.  There still seems to be some confusion as to where we are staying but it will all be worked out tomorrow.  My posts may not be as often depending on if I am able to find internet service.  But I will blog daily so you are able to what is going on here.

Take care, be safe and prayers for all
Anne

Monday, March 23rd, 2020

Good evening!

All flight reservations cancelled, all hotel reservations cancelled and Wednesday morning we will be transferring the the Kumeh compound for the duration of our stay.  The grandchildren are delighted to have us back with them and we will be staying in the little house with three of the grands.  It has the best screening and I think we will be fine.  Faith wants to learn how to knit and we should be able to pick up some needles (sticks) and yarn at the market down the street.  I will be able to get some of the sewing supplies I need and we can have plywood cut right next door in the widths we want for quilt squares.  What more could I want other than to be on my way home.

I forgot the mention yesterday about my morning breakfast on the 3rd floor veranda.  I asked the amn on duty (I am afraid I am unable to remember his name) if it was all right for me to eat outside rather than in the breakfast room all by myself.  His reply "As you wish".  I immediately thought of Kelly and her love for the movie Princess Bride.  I asked if he had seen it and he just laughed.

This morning as we waited for Jeff to come and pick us up, I was able to take a short nap.  I was still weary from the night before.  We traveled downtown to my favorite pharmacy to pick up a supply of the medications  we are taking.  Our pharmacy in Kokomo prepackaged our meds for our time away.  So, we were going to run out come Thursday.  Fortunately we were able to get them all but one.  They were much more expensive and I don't think I will complain again for the price of drugs in the US.

It had rained during the morning (it is now the beginning of rainy season) and they day was overcast and comfortable.  How amazing it was to see people in winter coats, jackets and knit caps.  It was very cold to them.  The traffic was terrible in spite of the fact the the government had issued an order that everything was to close at 11 am.  I didn't see much of anything closed but did see a large gathering of city police at the City Building on the way through town.  Maybe they were getting their orders but it wasn't much better as we drove back tonight.

Son, Adolphus, works at the port unloading  gas from the tankers that come in.  I was asking him about it and he said the tankers came in and unloaded.  Then the brand name gasoline companies come in and fill their gas delivery vehicles for distribution.  There is a set time for each company.  The interesting thing was they all get the same gas.  I recall when I was here before our guys each had a brand of gas they preferred.  Amusing to learn it is all the same gas supply.  The supply operates so close if a tanker does not come in on time, there is a gas crisis and the stations run out of gas.  We experienced that last week.

Faith made casava greens and rice for our meal today.  It was very good, however I did pass on the chicken feet and left them for the children.  She also bought me a treat that appeared puffy like the pork rinds but it didn't have much flavor - sort of like puffed up styrofoam.  However, I ate it and survived. 

It was intersting to watch four boys sharing crayons and a coloring book.  They colored on the two open pages and exchanged crayons as they colored.  It worked pretty well until they got bored.  As I watched the happenings in the yard, I saw a chicken pecking around in the trash area.  It had a red ribbon tied to a feather on the wing.  Faith told me that is the way the owner knows it is their bird.
The children were gathered at the pump filling buckerts to carry home for washing and drinking.  It is a clean well a group in Illinois funded when we came in 2010.  It is serving the community and gives them safe water to use in their homes.  I understand that during the Eboli crisis, no one in the community got sick due to the safe water.  For that I am very grateful!

Soon it was time to return to the hotel for the night.  We turned on the airconditioning for a time to cool things down a bit.  When they went to change generators ( they have to shut one off and then turn the other one on)  There is a gap of darkness and then everything resumes.  I had changed to setting on the direction the air was moving.  When it AC came back on agian it went to the original setting and I had a second bath in cold water than had collected on the louver.  Oh well, I didn't melt and a towel quickly got the rest of the water.

Another interesting observation.  News is the order of the day in the evening.  The Voice UK and other shows popular shows we would watch in the evening are on during the day.  We are watching BBC world news and all the updates all over the world on the virus.  Come Wednesday, we will not have access to the news other than the radio.

I will continue to blog each day but I am not sure how often I will be able to post.  I will keep you all up to date as best I can.  I plan to pick up a flash drive so if I have access to a computer I will be able to download it right onto the blog site.

Our prayers for all of you as you practice your self isolation.  We will be doing much of the same here.  One day this will all be over and give us something to remember in the future. 

Peace and joy,
Anne

Sunday, March 22, 2020

The news from Liberia just gets more and more interesting each and every day.  This morning I learned all airlines are shutting down services tomorrow, the markets and stores are to close at 11 am.  All this with 2 cases of virus in the country about the size of Indiana.  In fact it is shaped much like Indiana just a mirror image.

No church today, so we hung out at the hotel while I fussed about not being able to leave, having made reservations for a flight on Tuesday, and reservations for a hotel room near the airport so we didn't have to travel 1 1/2 hours to arrive at 5 am.  Then, I realized that I would save about $4,000 by staying here a couple of weeks longer.  We have the hotel until Wednesday noon, then we will be going out to the house to stay the balance of the time.  At least we won't have the long trip by car each day going and coming.  The children are excited!!!

We went out to Jeff and O.Z.'s place today to put together the treadle sewing machine we had purchased.  It was quite and interesting feat since there were no directions about the assembly.  Fortunately I had had a treadle machine when we lived here before so I had an approximate idea as to how it would go together.  We managed with only a couple of errors and should be up and running tomorrow.  I wanted to get some sewing machine oil on it before we started since I don't know how long it has been sitting packaged up. 

Tomorrow O.Z. and I are going shopping for a few more supplies to get us started.  I found a pattern for masks that I would like to to make in case they are needed or we can supply some of our friends the the healthcare field.  These have a pocket for the filter and it can be removed and the mask washed.  Thanks to all those who have been publishing these patterns.

When I told Alan and Kelly about the change in plans, Alan thought it was interesting that in 2014 we were not able to return to Liberia because of the Eboli outbreak and in 2020 we are not able to return to the US because of the Corona virus.  We just have to take it in stride and not get discouraged.

We met a new puppy at the Kumeh big house.  His name is Puff and just a cute little fluffy thing.  However he will grow into a Liberian dog  which is much like a terrier of mixed varity and medium sized.  They all look alike even to the color which is tan with maybe a few black markings.

Chuckie overcame his fear of GGrandma today long enough to accept a piece of fried plantain from me.  He would close his eyes and move forward and I would put it in his hand then he would quickly move back.  Hopefully I may win him over before we leave.

The streets were fairly empty today so we saw motorcycles racing each other down the main street of the city.  Too funny at times.  There is a lot of construction of buildings and road work going on.  The economy is bad but progress is moving forward.  It is strange to see the mix of the old remains of buildings not completed before the war and now the new buildings rising in the city with lots of glass for showrooms.  Supermarkets are growning and several of the smaller grocery stores located in the outlying areas of the city are closed.  This is an example of the NGO's living in the city with their higher salaries and the others in the other areas who do not have the income to shop at a store.  Most of their shopping is in the open air markets. 

I have really enjoyed our stay at the Hotel 71.  Our room is cleaned daily - and I mean cleaned!  Our laundry is done and folded on our bed when we return of an evening.  Always fresh bottles of water for us plus the air conditioning , television, internet and small refrigerator.  We are able to leave our personal items in the room and they are not disturbed.  Breakfast is morning is fun and filling.
Today I chose to eat on the veranda rather than in a separate dining room.  It was cool, with a slight breeze and very pleasent.  The staff is curious about what I hear from the US and they keep me informed about what is going on in Liberia and the rest of the world.

I was able to watch a bit of the Shiloh UMC service which was posted on the Russiaville UMC facebook page.  Thank you Pastor Michael Goodspeed and our good friend David Johns for setting it up for us.  It is wonderful to know there are many capable and willing people to keep things going while I am away.  I pray for all of your daily and feel your prayers surrounding me.  Each day is filled with challanges but also lots of joy and laughter in spite of the world being in chaos.

The day is drawing to a close and tomorrow will soon be here with all kinds of new adventures.
Peace and joy,
Anne

Saturday March 21, 2020

Good news today - we are confirmed on the Ethiopian flight leaving at 8:00 am Tuesday morning.  We are to be at the airport at 5 am.  In order to reach the airport we need to leave Monrovia at least by 3:30 am.  Yikes!  While at O.Z.'s this afternoon she suggested we spend the night at the Farmington Hotel at the airport.  Sounded like a good idea to us.  At least we don't have to get up quite so early.

Trying to find the Airline office this morning proved to be daunting adventure.  We stopped at two different airlines and a travel agency before finding the location.  It is interesting doing a U-turn on a major roadway in the midst of Saturday morning traffic.  Somehow Jeff managed and we made it.

We went on out the family home - it took almost 2 hours to reach there this morning the traffic was so bad.  It was delightful to visit with Adolphus the oldest son, for awhile before going over to OZ's and Jeff's home for a meal.  Fufu and soup was the order of the day for Timothy and I had rice and soup.  She had also fixed a delicious salad of lettuce, cucumber, tomato, onion and carrots.  I really enjoyed it.  In addition there was fresh fruit - papaya, mango, and bananas.  We shared with the grandchildren and it was enjoyed by all.

The sun was so hot, and the air so quiet that is was incredibly warm today.  The temperature was 89 degrees and an added heat index.  We went outside for a bit to at least have some air moving.  Little Adolphus the Great grandson was having such a good time playing football.  He can really kick and wanted to play a game with grandma.  We played for about 15 minutes before I was worn out.  Just too old for football anymore. 

His mother, Sarah, was getting her nails cleaned and was going to plat her hair.  She asked me to do it.  Everyone had a great laugh because I have not mastered the art yet.  Someday I will be able to if I can practice long enough.  Friends and neighbors stopped by to say hello.

When it came time to leave, O.Z. had to bring back to the hotel.  The traffic was crazy and at one point there were 5 lanes of cars moving where there should only have been two lanes.  I would not have the nerves to do it.  The children and I were in the back seat and my assignment was to keep them occupied while their mother was driving.  We arrived at the hotel safely.  The children saw my stash of M&M's and of course, needed some.  It gave me an opportunity to spoil them a bit.

Cool showers, a light snack, a cold bottle of water and we are set for the evening.

Sleep will come easily tonight.

Peace and joy,
Anne

Friday, March 20th ?? 2020

As crazy as it is, I am not able to remember what the date is.  I know things are in an upheaval in the US, and they are here as well.  Currently, Liberia has only one case of Corona Virus, but because all the rest of the world is impacted, it impacts us as well.  As I reported Brussels Airline Office locked their doors and disconnected their phones.  Apparently there was a flight that was supposed to go last night, but the plane did not arrive.  The report is that there was quite a crowd of people waiting to flyand they were just a "little" upset and stayed until after 2:00 am.

This morning after learning all this news, I decided it was time to go to the American Embassy here in Liberia and see what was going on and if there was an alternative to getting back to the US.  After washing my hands (we do this everywhere we go) we went in only to receive an email address in order to contact the Embassy which we were told they would answer.  So, back to the hotel to write the email and wait.  I told Timothy he could go out to the house, but he wanted to stay with me.  Sometime later, I received a response stating they were sorry I was not able to fly, to keep  at Brussels to see if things could be worked out.  Well -- there was no way to contact Brussels.  My only alternative was to try to find a different way home, or stay until after April 19th and take my chances that the office would reopen and we would fly.

In the meantime, I contacted the travel agency we had used to get our tickets and they were able to find us a flight out at 8:00 am on Tuesday morning.  We will fly to Ethiopia and then to Chicago and Indianapolis.  It is the long way around and a new adventure for us, but we will do what we have to do.  I plan on going to the Ethiopian Airlines office tomorrow morning to confirm the flight.  You all know how much I love getting up early in the morning so this will be my challenge.  We will probably have to be at the airport by 5:30 am which means we will have to leave here by 4 am.  Hopefully we can have everything packed and get up at 3:15 to finish getting ready.  Todd Wilson, I can feel your pain!

The hotel is next to JFK hospital and we keep hearing the ambulance as it rounds the corner and down the street to the entrance.  It can be quite disconcerting at times.

Since we spent the day at the hotel, we read, worked puzzles, I knitted, and we watched an old Superman movie on TV.  Surprising, neither of us took naps.   Now Timothy is watching something similar to Animal Planet  on snakes.  Ugh!  I can do without that.

We walked around the corner to the supermarket and got fried chicken legs and plantain for supper along with some 7up and ginger ale for a treat.  Dessert was a coconut crossiant.  Yummy!

Tomorrow we plan to go out to the house, put the sewing machine together any maybe get the masks made.

Keep the faith.
Anne

Thursday, March 19th, 2020

 Well, I just lost everything in the first post so I shall try once again.

As, instucted we traveled to Brussel Airline office this morning to check on the flight schedule to return to the US.  Much to our dismay, the doors and gates were locked and a large crowd had gathered outside to discuss and protest what was happening.  Rather that get caught up in all that we parked next door in the United Methodist Confernce Office compound to watch what was going on.

We were delightedly surprised to see a friend arriving at the Center at the same time.  Lango and Barnabas Toe were a young couple at the Amelia Ross United Methodist church during the time I was a missionary.  Bishop Kulah had assigned me at the Counseling Elder to the church to assist the new pastor, Agrippa Nyanti.  At the time, Barnabas was teaching and Lango was in Nursing School.  She later went on to be the Director of Nursing at the Women and Children's Hospital and now is serving the General Board of Global Ministries in the Health care capacity for the Annual Conference.  All the offices are closed but she had come in for a bit to do some reports that needed completed.  Her brother is here from Rhode Island  and is in much the same situation we are.  He said that the American citizens are meeting at the American Embassy on Monday morning at 9 am to request transport to the US.  We shall see what happens then.

We traveled on the the house in Bardnersville where I found a shady spot and a cool breeze on the back porch.  Faith was cooking for us and of course, greens and rice.  I find it fascinating how they fry chicken.  First it is boiled and then put in hot fat to brown.  It is so crunchy and crisp on the outside but very tender on the inside.  I enjoyed two servings!!!!

While in my shady spot,we were visited by several of the grandchildren, Toe, Anthony, Darlington, Teddy, Charming, Candy Girl, Riley and Sawsee.  Other neighborhood children came over to visit with us as well.  One little girl had part of her plats loosened on her head when she came.  I put down my knitting and worked to loosen a couple more.  She got sleepy and went home to lay down.  He mother probably wonders what happened.  The children think it is very odd that I am unable to plat hair.  Two other little girls came by with their dolls and I attempted to plat the hair on one.  They laughed at the old woman who wasn't able  to plat it plain.  It is something that they learn to do at a very young age.  Justina, one of the mothers of Timothy's children when she learned to plat hair.  She said she was very young but she doesn't do it any longer because of the arthritis in her fingers.  When we arrived last week on Tuesday she had a very bad tooth infection.  I brought her some medicine and she was much better today and even able to talk.  She was so grateful that we were able to help her.  She has very little money and only what the children give her from time to time.

On our way back to the hotel this evening we spied a new means of transportation.  It is a very small enclosed car that is styled like the old Woody.  It is a manual transmission but much more efficient that the KaKa's that are the small car mounted on a motor cycle.  The KaKa is open and it not very practical in the rainy season.  The Hercules caught Jeff's eye and he stopped to inquire the price.  $4,000 as opposed the the KaKa at $3,300.  A very good buy.  It may be enough to encourage him to
get some work so as to purchase one.

 The airline office was still closed as we made our way back.  We will check again tomorrow.
After showers, a bit of food, some water, watching the news regarding the virus, it is about time for sleep.  Tomorrow is another day.
Peace and joy,
Anne

Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

Another interesting day with the Kumeh family.

Jeff had trouble with his tires  on the car and was much later getting here.  The road are so torn up and the rocks so sharp they literally cut through the tires.  It is a constant air and patch to keep the car going.

We took the time to relax, read the paper and tidy up all our stuff for a bit.  I have been knitting a pair of socks for Timothy in our down time or while riding in the car and I finished the first sock today.  At this rate they should be completed by the time we come home.  Good thing I brought along some more yarn for me a pair.  Fortunately I am able to carry them in the plane.

After dealing with the traffic for a time we stopped at a hardware store to purchase a treadle sewing machine.  While we were waithing for Jeff to check it out and pay for it, we witnessed the police taking a PanPan ( a three wheeled vehicle built on a motorcycle frame.  The driver is in the front and there are two bench seats for the passengers to ride.  They are quickly taking the place of taxis.  With their relatively small size they are able to negotiate the traffic with relative ease.  Anyway it took 6 police to take the vehicle and carry to their impound.  We were fortunate we parked back a little in a real parking space so there was no attempt made on us.  Jeff finally returned to the car and told us that we had to go to the warehouse because they did not have them in stock at the store.  So off to locate the warehouse we went.  When we arrived, we were given a temperature check before we were even allowed into the area. After we got parked, Jeff seemed to get the royal runaround so I finally went in with him when they sent him to a second location.  I was warmly welcomed, asked to take a seat and before long the sewing machine magically appeared.  After signing some papers  and being checked out and cleared we were able to leave.  It took us almost 2 hours.

We went directly to Jeff's house and unloaded the machine.  O.Z. had gone to work today so we left it as a surprise for her.  I also gave her half of all the material I had purchased along with the sewing supplies to get her started.  I will be sending her directions and patterns through email to get her hooked on the quilting experience.  She had prepared some casava and rice for us before she went to work this morning.  It was somewhat peppery but not overly so.

We then traveled to the Kumeh clan area and rested on the front porch and took in the breeze.  Several of the children came over and we were telling Sawsee about his given name - Luther Success Kumeh.  He was named after Martin Luther King.  We talked about Martin Luther King and how he worked to avoid segregation along with John F. Kennedy and how they made strides in bringing people together.  They were really interested.  We went on to discuss the American Colonization Society who sent the freed slaves to relocated in Liberia since it was not colonized at that time.
The children had been studying all this in school and it came alive for them.  We told them about the quilts along the Underground Railroad and how there were many places in the area where we live in Indiana that were part of the route to freedom.  Lots of questions followed and history came alive for them.

It was after 6 pm when we left the house to return to the hotel.  We would have loved to stay longer but dusk was falling and the mosquitos would soon be out.  They love my fair skin and I was really not anxious to be exposed to a bite causing malaria.

When we got back to the hotel, handwashing was the order of the day.  I went upstairs to get us a sandwich for supper.  The staff and I were talking about the virus and where we lived in the States.  I was able to get Google maps working on my phone and showed them our house.  It was also possible to located the hotel and our house in Liberia.  Such fun to experience technology in a new and different way.

Supper was a club sandwich with tuna salad, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, fried egg and cheese.  Timothy had a chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato and cheese  as well.  We both had fries and a Sprite.

Showers soon followed, a bit of TV and so it goes.....
Good night, sweet dreams, until tomorrow.
Peace and joy,
Anne

Tuesday March 17th, 2020

Happy St Patrick's Day from Liberia. 

The Liberians have no idea who St. Patrick is and why Irish (whoever they are) celebrate.

After a very restless night I finally fell asleep about 4 am this morning and awake about 9 am.
Our first plan was to go to Gbarnga today to visit one of my Liberian daughters (Anna Kaydor Labala) who is the principal of the Tubman Gray United Methodist School.  Under the order of the President of Liberia, George Weah, all schools are to be closed and the Bishop of the United Methodist Church in Liberia, Bishop Samuel Quire, all United Methodist Schools are to be closed for the next two weeks.  Our plans were actually cancelled due to a gasoline shortage and we didn't want to travel  about 2 1/2 distance to have and problem and not be able to get gas to return home.

Then, Jeff  called about 10 am to tell us that he was having a problem with his car and needed to go to the garage to get it repaired.  Therefore he didn't know for sure what time we would be able to come to us.  We just did some sorting and checking and repacking some things.  I took a nap and Jeff arrived around 2 pm.  We decided to run some errands around town because it would take us and hour to get to the house only to be able to stay a couple of hours before we had to return.

We took off to go to the Brussels Airline office to check on our return flight.  We had been hearing some rumors around and wanted to be sure what was going on.  We got all they way downtown only to discover the airlines had been moved to 13th street in Sinkor.  We are staying on 20th street in Sinkor.   While we were in town I wanted to stop and get some sewing supplies so I could teach Jeff's woman O.Z. how to quilt.  We parked and walked up the street to a sewing supply store where I was able to purchase 3 spools of thread, a pair of scissors, pins, needles and a ruler for about $3.50.  I went to another shop where I purchased (you guessed it!) some more fabric so I would have enough for a wall hanging.  For those of you who are quilters, I am going to teach her a simple 9 patch design with two prints and a solid.  I had brought two king size sheets and she can use one for the backing.
Yes, of course, it is purple.  What else could it be?

We returned to the car only to find that it had been booted by the traffic and parking attendents.   Timothy had stayed in the car and they searched the car and asked if he could drive.  He assured them that we had only stepped away for a few mintues and he did not know how to drive.  We Jeff and I returned they wanted money to remove the boot from the tire.  A  boot is a metal frame that locks around the tire and will not allow you to drive away until it is unlocked and removed.  Jeff offered them 300 Liberian Dollars ( the cost of parking is 30 Liberian Dollars).  They refused.  He offered them 600 Liberian Dollars, again they refused.  They wanted $50.00 USD to remove the boot.  I told them under no circumstances would I give them $50 dollars and that we would just continue to sit there until they released the boot.  Several people came along and tried to argue with the police.  Mostly that why would they keep me in a hot car and not release the boot.  At this point they were only embarrassing themselves regarding their unrealistic demands,  and did unlock the boot and allow us to leave.  This took about 1/2 hour to 45 minutes to endure.  It always annoys me that just because I have white skin it is assumned I have plenty of money and was naive enought to give it to them.

We traveled on back to Sinkor to the Brussels office.  After washing hands twice I was asked to stand outside in the line to talk to an airline personnel.  They were coming outside to speak to us and then returning with the information required.  More than one person was very annoyed at the responses they were receiving.  Many were wanting to fly back immediately, the sooner the better.  The security asked me to move down off the step around the building.  This would put me in the sun and I had already had a reaction to the sun and a slight sunburn.  I explained I was not able to stand in the sun and she allowed me to stay where I was.   Soon the travel agent came out and inquired about my need.  I told her I wanted to check my flight as we were scheduled to fly on the 25th.  She told me to call back to the office.  I do not have their number, so she asked that I return early Thursday morning.
I am in a quandry - do we return early only to be exposed to the virus on the plane and risk catching it or do we stay here where we are much safer and return when the airlines are flying again.  We shall see and the answers will be made plain.

After all that, we returned to the hotel to climb to the veranda on the 3rd floor.  A wonderful breeze was blowing cooling the air nicely.  We had a beer/Sprite mix and Jeff had juice.  Since we had not eaten at the big house, we decided to order dinner.  Timothy wanted buffalo wings and we ordered a family size sausage pizza to share.  The buffalo wings were like a deep fried wing with a very hot sauce to dip them in.  I had one wing without the sauce, thank you very much.  The pizza was huge and made with crust, mushrooms, ham slices, cheese and a little tomato with seasoning on the top.  It was different, but very tasty and we finished it all.  Jeff left to head home, and Timothy and I lingered for a bit having another Spite before returning to our room.

Showers, CNN news, a cold bottle of water and the computer.  Our day is complete.
Until tomorrow
Peace and joy
Anne

Monday, March 16, 2020

Well!!!  The virus has reached Liberia.  Sawsee met us at the car to tell us it was here.  Apparently a high ranking government official came from a conference yesterday and had the virus.  S/he is at the hospital at this time.  As the day went on we found many places that now require hand washing before entering the business.  This was the practice during the eboli outbreak in 2014.  It is taken very seriously here.  While we are wiping down with disenfectant wipes and washing hands, the possiblity of it reaching to us is very small.  However, we will continue keeping the safe practices.  I came prepared with antibiotic soap and wipes.

Before we left the hotel this morning we were greeted by Evelyn Toe and two more grandchildren, twins: Isaiah and Jerimiah.  These are son Jackie's two youngest children.  At first they let me pick them up and from then on they put their hands over there eyes so they couldn't see me.  After a while, they forced themselves to sleep.  It was just too funny.  I tried to post a picture on facebook but FB wouldn't let me.  I will have to try another way.

There is a severe gas shortage today so we stopped at the station and waited in line to fill the tank and two 5 gallon cans.  Total cost $70.00 USD.  Wow.  While waiting I spied an ice cream shop so went and got us all some ice cream.  Chocolate for Jeff, vanilla for Timothy and a Lime ice for me.  While they were dipping it, my eyes went to the biggest raisin rolls (at leat 1 1/2 inches tall and about 6 inches across).  They looked so good that I thought they would taste much better than bread with peanut butter and honey tonight.  Ice cream was so sweet but we had to eat it fast in the almost 90 degree heat.  The rolls were also a yummy treat tonight.

We got to the house to be greeted by Sawsee's news.  He was so terribly serious about it and wanted to bump elbows with everyone.  We did see one person in the neighborhood with a mask on.  I wonder how long that will last with this heat.

Jeff's "wife" O.Z. sent word that lunch was ready for us.  She wanted to cook.  We went to their home and had a wonderful meal of greens and rice with tuna.  Fresh tuna is so meaty and delicious.  I don't recall ever having it before.  The greens had pepper in them but not so much that I was not able to eat it.  Two helpings later, my stomach was full!  Timothy enjoyed his palava sauce and fufu.  But then he had to have some greens and rice as well.  Their daughter ate with us as well.  What fun!

Following lunch, O.Z. and I had such a wonderful visit.  I was able to give her some of the history of the family and the children to help her understand some of the family dynamics.  Then we began talking about quilting - well that lasted all afternoon.  She is not able to work at her office and is at home at least for the time being.  She is interested in making a quilt so I explained how to make a simple nine patch.  I had some pictures on my phone of one I was making so she had a general idea.

She thought it would be beautiful with Liberian fabric.  We talked about different fabrics we could put together and we were off!!!!!  It wasn't long before we were talking about going into business to create some different designs.  I am able to take pictures of placements and send them to her though facebook messenger.  Also she has a means of receiving mail so I will be able to send some sample for her to see.  We talked about going into business together in a couple of years and offer not only quilts but teaching quilting and knitting here in Liberia.  So exciting for both of us.

Soon it was time to return back to the hotel but not before we had some edo and soup granddaughter Faith had prepared for us.  And then some friends popped by to say Hello and have a soft drink. About an hour later, we were finally able to leave, but not after some more "Sugar, sugar, kiss, um, um good.

Warm showers were the order of the day, a cold bottle of water and our sweet rolls were a treat.

I also am happy about my natural pedicure I am receiving by wearing sandals and the sand rubs gently on my feet.  My skin is smooth and soft from the sea salt in the air and in spite of all my eating I am losing a few pounds.  Life is good!!

Peace and joy,

Sweet dreams.

Anne

Sunday, March 15,2020

Wow!  What a day!

We started out this morning at 10:00 am to reach church across town at Johnson G, Nyan United Methodist Church.  This month they are celebrating 37 years of activity,  It is made up of mostly Kru Tribe people who are living in the Monrovia area.  Some of the songs they sing are in the Kru dialect and the use of percussion instruments is extensive.  Today 2 drums of different sizes and 2 salsa ( dried goards with beading around them to make a swishing noise as they are shaken.  Couple that with all the singing and dancing and it was quite a worship experience.  There were 4 pastors present for about 60 people including 36 children.  The pastor in charge, the counseling elder, myself and one other paster who was visiting.  We all shared in the service.  I was invited to read the gospel lesson, consecrate the elements for communion and assist in serving communion.  What a blessing to be in touch with friends.  Beatrice Hinnis, who lives in Minnesota and sends Timothy food on a regular basis was in Liberia as well.  It was wonderful for her to be in church with us and to see her once again.  Too sad that we have to travel half way around the world to see each other when we live so much closer.

Service started at 10:30 am and after a sermon, numerous recognitions, singing, 4 offerings , communion and lots of tributes we were finished at 2:30 pm.  Can you imagine that occuring the the US?  It was very, very hot, but we managed.  The church has made great strides in the time we have worshiped there over the years.  They have raised the walls about 3 feet and put in a balcony.  Also they have replaced the ceiling fiber board with plywood and varnished it to a brilliant color.  Electricity has been installed and adds to the lighting in the building.  Now they are working to replace the windows that have been filled with decorative concrete block with sliding glass windows.  After all that, the painting begins.  They hope to have it all finished by the end of May when the District United Methodist Women will be coming for a celebration.

Following church we returned to the house to see all the children and eat.  Today we had Casava greens and rice.  The leaf can be very textured and if not well prepared can taste gritty.  I suggest that it is like eating green sand.  However, today it was really prepared well and tasted so good.  It didn't hurt that I was very hungry as well.  Following lunch some of the other children came by to see us.  Timothy Jr.  (also called Archie Boy) came by with his family.  Riley, his oldest son, lives nearby but the rest of the family lives in a community called West Point.  Archie Boy had two boys that I did not know about.  Robert, named after my brother and a little one Timothy III who is just over 2 year.
Since we are on our round of grandchildren by Timothy's younger children and great grands by the older grandchildren, we now have 3 little boys all around 1 year, plus Oliver who is about 3 years.
It can be quite interesting. 

Also son Jonathan came by for a visit.  He has been working out of town and just got back yesterday.  We are in touch with him on a regular basis by Facebook and phone but it was good to se him again.  He is a mason by trade and does very good work.  He has two sons, Jonathan Jr. and Edwin, named after my older brother.  Jonathan was telling us that when he told Edwin about the death of my brother, Edwin was very dismayed that he was named after a dead person.  It took some explaining to convince him that my brother was alive when Edwin was born and named.  They were all very interested in seeing the persons in my family they were named after.  I have promised to have pictures made of all of them so they will have them in the future.


The  day was overcast and there was a delightful breeze this afternoon and it was nice and cool to sit outside and visit.  I have been working on a pair of socks for Timothy.  People have been passing by and asking what I am making.  The children love to tell them "Socks" like it was so obvious, why would they even ask.  What is even funnier is that they stand and watch in fastination as I knit with four "sticks".

We laughingly said the drums were beating, for the news of our arrival has traveled through the family and neighborhood.  One couple drove by on the road and saw a white woman at the house so they knew that we had arrived.  Tomorrow will be even busier as many more friends will be stopping by because of the holiday.  We will be eating at Jeff's house and Timothy is excited to have Palava sauce and rice.  I will be having my favorite, greens and rice.

On our way to church we saw a motorcycle accident.  The onlookers were loading the injured biker in a car to take him to the hospital.  It is the responsibility of the driver who hit him to make sure he is cared for and pays for his expenses.  If he were to die, the driver would be responsible for his funeral.
On our way home we saw three people on a motorcycle.  This is not unusual at all, however, the back two riders were switching places on the bike while the driver was traveling down the road.  In the words of one of my friends "Oh, my people!"   Some just do not have the common sense to be safe.

We returned back to the hotel for showers and a light supper of bread with peanut butter and honey.
Once again it has been a wonderful day.  We are watching the virus report from President Trump and Vice President Pence on CNN.  While it is not here, many people are concerned about the US and our family.  Prayers are going up from Liberia for all of you.

Peace and joy for another day.
Anne

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Greetings from hot, hot Liberia.  Today the heat index must have been over 100.  I understand that many of you have experienced snow the past couple of days.  Liberians are not even able to understand how temperatures can get so cold it is like living in a freezer.  All they know is the heat.
The temperature goes from hot to hotter and back to hot again.

Today when Jeff picked us up we had our foot lockers ready to go with all the goodies we had brought for the children and adults.  They couldn't wait to see what we had for them.  Socks for all the children, small cars for the little boys and blow up beach balls for the greats who are under 2 years.  The girls got jewelry, toothpaste, Irish Spring Soap, socks and underwear.  The older boys got shirts, toothpaste, soap, and razors.  Annie just put her hand out for anything I would give her.  She can be so funny at times.

We traveled out to the house a different way so we could see all the changes on the other side.
The main road is in a circle on either side of the river.  If we go to the Northwest to the other side it is the downtown area of Monrovia and around.  If we go to the Southeast we travel through many of the smaller communities before reaching our community.  The city of Monrovia is on the ocean side of the circle and our community is directly across the circle.  Either way is about the same, just a different look but same heavy traffic.

We stopped at the market and I purchased some ripe plantain and donuts for the children.  The girls fried the plantain and that was my meal for today.  The donuts go quickly and there were enough to go around for everyone.  Twenty of them fed the pack.  Later on in the morning there must have been about 10 or 12 small boys gathered at the front of the house.  I went out on the steps and spent some time with them.  We talked about school, sports and other things that they were interested in.  Of course each wanted me to give them a toy car and a football (Soccer ball).  I told them I didn't know there would be so many of them.  Besides their friends would find out and they would come, and I just didn't have enough for all.  As for the football, they could play with the one I bought our boys when they were playing.  In the afternoon, they were playing it and a bigger boy from another community came and took it from them.  That is life.  I will think about whether I will purchase another for the boys.

Princess came by with my dresses and I will be ready for church tomorrow.  I will post a picture of them on facebook so you will be able to see them.  Words don't do them justice, they are so pretty.

Timothy's sons came to see him and he was so very happy to see them.  It has been a delight to hear him laugh and enjoy himself with his friends and children.  This trip has done him so much good.  Thank you to the Russiaville United Methodist Church for making this trip a possiblity for us.  It has been good medicine for Timothy.

For supper, Timothy had a soup similar to bean soup.  It was thick with fish and pork in it.  He loved it and ate almost every drop they prepared.  I had my fried plantain and very happy with it as well.
On the way home, we purchased a loaf of Foola bread from a wheelbarrow at the intersection to the main road.  It is so wonderful and crusty, I savor every bite.

Some of the market ladies came through the neighborhood selling meat in a wheel barrow.  The selection was chicken, fish, and pigs feet.  Newsboy followed along with a basin of chicken feet helping his Ma sell.  It is not unusual for this to occur.  Particularly on Saturday because the market is not open on Sunday.  You must purchase on Saturday, cook it up and save it to reheat on Sunday.  There is no refrigeration but it does not spoil.  I have yet to get sick when food is prepared this way.
Sunday is also a holiday.  J.J. Roberts birthday.  He was the first President of Liberia.  Since it falls on a Sunday, it will be observed on Monday.  So, another free day with no work, no school.  The children are so very happy.

We arrived back at the motel for a shower, light supper of bread, honey and bananas.  Timothy went down to sleep about 8 p,m.  He gets so very tired in the heat.  It is now about 9 and I will not be far behind.  Sleep tight.  Love and hugs
Anne

Friday, March 13, 2020

Good evening.

We are coming to the of another day.

I was awake early, early this morning but managed to go back to sleep.  i just wasn't ready to get up at 4 am.

We piddled around, taking quick showers, and then going up the stairs to breakfast.  Three flights is a lot to climb for this old body.  However, at the end of our stay, I may be in shape.  We shall see.

While we waited for Jeff to arrive we had time to read the local papers.  It seems that Bishop Quire of the United Methodist Church in Monrovia would like to build a complex to house the Conference Office and United Methodist University.  I know there is United Methodist land out on the main highway to town.  He is hoping to raise 34 million dollars and have the project funded and completed in 5 years.  He has challenged each church and each district to do farming to help raise the money for this project.

We arrived at the "Kumeh Compound" to find all the children at home.  Apparently on Friday they have a shortened school day and only attend until noon.    We were dutifully kissed and hugged before they went their separate ways to play.  Some football, some kickball and others just to be with friends.

Princess brought the clothes she had measured us for on Wednesday.  She has been busy sewing since she left.  Timothy and I have matching shirt and dress in a beautiful purple, green, blue geometric print.  Timothy's shirt has design work all stitched on the front.  He looks very handsome.  My dress and suit are lovely.  However, she needed to take it home and make some adjustments.  A little less in the bust and a little more in the hips.  She will return tomorrow with the finished product.  We will look so fine when we attend church on Sunday.

Timothy's nephew came by to spend the afternoon with us.  Dennis works with the Department of Health by overseeing the protecol is followed currectly.  He as been involved in the work with HIV/AIDS and vactionations for children.  He was a physician's assistant before beginning his work with the Health Department.  His big concern was my thoughts on the situation in the United Methodist Church.  Liberia is very traditional and is just not able to understand the inclusive church.
Our different cultures and practices are a very large part of the differences.  In Liberia the gay and lesbian population offer money to the children and prostitute them.  This is the basis for the Liberian understanding of the issue.  No wonder they are so opposed to the concept.  We discussed it from the perspectives of our different culture and practices and began to see what drives the thought of our respective convictions.

Annie was much better today and was able to go outside and take some fresh air.  Justina, the mother of Timothy's other chidlren was at the house today as well.  She was not well with an infection in her tooth.  Ibuprofin today and some antibiotics tomorrow.  The family Dr, has arrived and treating her family.  Dennis and I discussed treatment for the swelling in Annie's feet and came to and agreed upon conclussion for her treatment.  And so it goes.

I had taken the girls 2 cans of corned beef and told them how to prepare it with cabbage.  The soup with rice was lunch today for Timothy, Dennis and I.  I would like to do it again next week and help them cook it so they can share in the feast.  Jeff commented that he knew the smell and it was very sweet to his nose.

The little boys watched as I worked on a sock for Timothy.  When someone would ask what I was making them would look them in the eye and say "Socks" as if there wasn't any question as to what it was.  Of course, it followed soon enough with "Grandma, will you make me some socks?"

The very small ones who are deathly afraid of me no longer continue to run away screaming but still clutch at their respective Mama's legs when around.  It is intersting how the family system works in Liberia.  When a parent goes to work the family remaining care for the little ones until they return.  The children know who their parents are but again everyone is Mommie and Daddy.  The entire family and extended family raise the children.  The same goes for discipline.  Whoever sees something going wrong has the ability to discipline the child.  It works and everyone shares the responsibility.

It was fun to listen to Dennis, Timothy, and another friend  talk, laugh and tell stories of their growing up years and their children.  They also had the opportunity to catch up on the status of the family and the tribe as to births and deaths that have taken place since we left in 2014.

Before long, it was time to say "Goodby" for another day.  We headed back to the hotel.  Along the way we stopped at a street corner and purchased a loaf of bread to eat with honey for our evening treat.  Hot showers to clean off the dust were the order of the day.  Plus a bottle of very cold water.
Heat index today was 95 degrees with a very sunny sky.

Tomorrow is another day and we will carry the foot lockers filled with gifts for the family.  I hope that we will be able to get some family pictures of each of the children so you will have an idea of the size of our clan.

Good night and God bless.
Anne

Thursday, March 13th, 2020

As promised yesterday here are some pictures taken.  I finally discovered how to download them and we are off and running.

Below is Newsboy, Sawsee and Riley

Sawsee and Riley are grandchildren and Newsboy who is the same age as Sawsee was a next door neighbor and playmate to Sawsee/

This is the cemetary and mausileum of daughter Christina.  Pictured are 3 of her children Sarah, Faith and Kojo.  The 4th is a young woman (Mary) that Chris took in to live with her.

Shiekie Dah Dah who spends his days repairing roads in Monrovia City.  What a delight to be able to see him again.

Greens and rice - Yum! Yum!

Today we were a little later getting started.  While I woke up early and was all ready, Jeff called to tell us they were doing inspections along the road.  He was able to arrive about noon.

We went down the road and around the corner to see Jackson.  He was my mechanic when I was a missionary and after 9/11 he chased me down the street to make sure my family was safe.

He was delighted to see me and we exchanged greetings and asked after the family.

Then we made our way to Mamba Point where the American Embassy is located.  There are a group of artisns in that location due to its proximity the the Embassy and American tourists who don't want to venture into Waterside to shop.  We were able to purchase a nice African (Liberian made) drum for Riley to use with his bands in his teaching career.

On down to Waterside to purchase a Sasa.  It is a large dried goard with the seeds removed.  Bead work is woven around it and loose enough that you can hold on the  handle of the goard with one hand and pull the strings attached with the beading with the other.  It makes a very interesting percussion sound.

Then off to Bardnersville to the family home.  We spent some time with Annie.  She was feeling much better.  Timothy talked with her in dialect and they had quite a long conversation about family on either side.  She shared some of her boiled casava with us.  I love the flavor although it is not one of her favorites.  The girls fixed Timothy and I some fufu and soup.  There was plenty of pepper in it and I did get my sinus cleaned out by the time we were finished.

Several of the neighborhood children came by to sit and talk with the white woman.  We  had a conversation for about 15 minutes before they became restless so we sent them out to play.

By this time, our grandchildren were returning from school so we have an opportunity to visit with them about their day.  I purchased a soccor ball for them to use in the yard to keep them busy.  They felt I should buy them each one but settled on one to share.

Today I finally got our phones working and contacted several of our friends for phone numbers.  One in particular was Burphy Wheaton who was a classmate of Timothys at the AME University.  He is now director of the Archives for the country.  We picked him up on our way back to the Hotel .  He and Timothy had such a wonderful time visiting.  It did them both well.

On the other hand, I connected with one of my "daughters", Anna.  She and her husband were at the hotel when we arrived and we also had a wonderful visit.  She is principal for one of the Methodist Schools and James is the Dean for the United Methodist Seminary.

Another busy but intesting day in life of Liberia.  Rest easy, Good night.

March 11, 2020 Wednesday

Greetings on Day 2 - March 11th - Wednesday.

Finally, a great night sleeping and slept through 3 alarms to awake to son Jeff tapping on the door.
Grandma Annie's fever went very high in the night and they had taken her to the hospital for treatment.  She was diagnosed with malaria and the medicine I had given her had helped that she was not even sicker.  She received and injection and sent home to more medicine and ORS (oral hydrating solution to drink).  When we arrived later in the day, she was sound asleep on the sofa and with all the noise around her, she didn't rouse until about 5 pm.

Breakfast again of French toast, water melon, fried plantain and Gold Coast coffee.  I have taken some pictures but they are still downloading from my camera.  Maybe they will be ready to post tomorrow.

Traffic was so very light we were able to get to the house in about 30 minutes.  Today is a National Holiday so most people were at home or tending to their family gravesites for cleanup.  I did get some pictures for you to see.  At one location a band was playing a concert for the families.

Daughter Chris' children, Kojo, Faith, Sarah and I went to her gravesite to clean the brush and wash the grave.  It is a tile covered mausoleum as are most of the graves in Liberia due to the sandy soil and the heavy rains during the rainy season.  Four Liberian young men introduced themselves to us and proceeded to do the cleaning and brushing.  It was a way for them to earn some small money and to show off how strong they were to the girls.

Returning to the house, Timothy and I had our dinner of Potato Greens with fish and chicken and served with rice.  Granddaughter Sarah's little boy (Adolphus) sat on my lap and loved eating with Grandma.  He is quite and eater and very active.  He is a year old, walking, talking in sentences and calling people by name.  He had great fun today throwing a piece of charcoal in the air and trying to kick it like a soccor ball.  He has also learned to jump and was practicing his skills at that as well.

Friends are beginning to learn that we have arrived and are stopping by to greet us and talk to Timothy to catch up.  I am sure in a couple of days the men will be gathering on the porch to talk politics and whatever else Liberian men talk about.  Today Granddaughters Geraldine and Manashi (Annie) came to visit for the day.  Annie has grown up so and loved sitting with Grandpa Timothy and talking and touching him on the head and arms.  Up til now she has been very shy and would rarely talk to us.

Another visitor today was one of Sawsee's playmates and neighbors while we lived in the big house.  Newsboy was always so small in stature and very slight.  While he has grown maybe a foot since we last saw him, he is still very small.  How delightful to see him and hear that he is living nearby and going to school.  It was an interesting mix with several of the grandsons, Sawsee, Newsboy, Riley and Georgie fussing at each other.  They range in age from about 8 - 10 years and are suffering from growing pains like boys often do.

On our return back to the motel tonight we met Shiekie Dah Dah on the street.  Shiekie Dah Dah worked on the roads filling in holes with rock and sand until the goverment could make repairs.  I first met him in 2000 and would often see him working hard to improve the roads.  People would pass him tips as they traveled by to help support him.  One time I was able to stop and hear part of his story.  He had been in the US living in New York.  He has a son still in the US.  Unfortunately he was into drugs and was arrested.  He was given the choice of serving time or being deported back to Liberia.  He chose deportation, which was probably to his benefit due to the lack of drugs here.  That was the time he began repairing roads.    At one time, he was offered a job with the government of Liberia in the Transportation Area.  He turned it down and still today is repairing the roads with rock and sand to make it safer for the Liberian drivers.

Evening has come, the sky has darkened and sleep will be soon.  It is cool and quiet and a delightful ending to another day.  Good night!

Tuesday - March 10, 2020

Greetings from hot, humid Liberia!
There was a shower this morning which cooled things off for a short time only to make it worse later.
We left the hotel about 9 am and traveled to the Methodist Compound where I lived while a missionary.  Several of our friends are still there who worked with security, maintenence and grounds.
Kelly they send you greetings and Flomo says your chicken is still doing fine.  I gave him small money to continue to purchase food for it.

Then off to Waterside to do some shopping for fabric for a new dress for Sunday.  Found two lovely fabrics  - one a purple print and the other a very brightly colored geomectric design to be used for the back of a quilt - or so I thought.  We stopped along the street and purchased cards for our Liberian phones so we will be able to use them here to communicate.  At the same time we walked down a few stores to see some old friends at the BK Pharmacy,  I purchased 100 Cipro, 120 doxycylene capsules (we take this as a preventative for Malaria, and some adult Malaria medication just in case.  All this for $15.00 USD.

Off to spend more than an hour and half in traffic to travel maybe 2 miles to another store to greet an old friend we did business with.   We spent some time with Harris at the National Hardware store and had a cold glass of juice and got caught up on all the news from Liberia according to the business world.  He also has a new son who is just turning 3.

Then to head out the the house to see family.  Again 1 1/2 hours to drive maybe 10 miles.  The roads are being reworked, paved, and limited to 2 lanes rather than expanding to 5 during high traffic areas.
It was interesting to note that with the new design for traffic flow, that if traffic got heavy and people wanted to move faster, they would just move across the boulevard and drive  the wrong way in the traffic flowing the opposite direction.  It was very unnerving, especially after dark.

When we reached the house people came flying from all directions.  Children launched themselves into our arms for giant hugs.  I was amazed at how much they had grown - of course it has been 6 years since we last saw them.  Often, we would have to look and try to figure out who they were and just plain ask.  We met a few grands born after we left and 2 great grands.  One was terrified of me and the other was very nonchalant  seeing he had a white woman as grandma.

The afternoon was spend visiting, visiting, visiting after neighbors and friends heard the news and stopped by to greet us and visit for a bit.  Annie, a mother to several of Timothy's children had come down with malaria and so, of course, I gave her some of the malaria medicine I purchased plus water and oral rehydration packets to keep her hydrated.

Our teenage grands have matured into wonderful, caring, adults who are taking responsibility in the family to step in with help as it is needed.  My beloved little Sausee has grown to almost as tall as me.  He was constantly by my side touching me to make sure I was still there.  Several of the neighborhood children were there as well so we went through all the pictures on my phone and who, what, where they were taken.  It was fun trying to explain snow to them as well as the cold weather.

Riley was curious about grandson Riley in the United States and the fact that he was studying music in college and would be a teacher and direct a band.  Edwin was fascinated to see pictures of my brother Edwin who was a teacher of history.  Each wanted to hear stories of the person they were named after.  Three little girls in the neighborhood were fascinated by the fact the children had an grandmother who was a white woman and were mesmorized by my skin and hair.  I'm sure they had never spoken to a white person or touched one.  They played with the hair on my arms and head feeling the softness.  They probably had plenty to say when they returned home later in the day.

Granddaughter Faith was fixing palm butter and rice for the evening meal which is one of Timothy's favorites.  A bowl was sent home for his supper.  We stopped along the roadside and I got a loaf of Foola bread.  It is like French Bread but very coarse and crusty.  A stop at the local supermarket for some peanut butter and honey and my evening meal was complete.

It is now about 9 pm.  I want to take a nice shower and clean the dust off my body, and fall into bed for a long nights sleep.  Jeff will be by about 9 am to pick us up for tomorrow's activities.  Tomorrow is a  holiday, Decoration Day.  So it will be spent cleaning and washing the graves of the family and then a grand meal.  It will be my favorite - potato greens and rice.

Sweet dreams.

Anne

Safe arrival 3.9.2020

Facebook post:
Greetings friends

We arrived late last night for us.  About 4 pm your time.  We have a wonderful room with hit and cold running water, air conditioning and such.

Breakfast this morning - egg, french toast, fried plantain, watermelon, mango, and......  Gold Coast coffee.  Yum!!!
Off to start the day.  More later.  God bless

March 8, 2020 A Return

For those of you who have been following the work and life of my mom, Anne Girton Kumeh and Poppie, Timothy Kumeh, this blog will begin to see more posts over the next few weeks.  Mom and Poppie have gotten the opportunity to return to Liberia for a short visit.  Today they began the flight first to Chicago and then to Brussels before arriving in Liberia tomorrow.

As she is able, Mom will be sending me updates and pictures documenting their trip.  I will post those updates and photos here so that there is a common location to get information.
If anyone has questions or needs anything, please feel free to contact me here in the comment section of the blog, through email kellyjurkowski@gmail.com, or on Facebook.