Friday, September 18, 2009

Transitions

I was recently asked what the biggest transition or adjustment is. After some thought, I told them there isn't one big thing, its that everything is different. Nothing is the same and its the lack of consistency of the small things that are the most draining. I miss those creature comforts; mostly consistent Internet, water pressure in the shower and paved roads. I miss family and friends too but having Internet is what keeps me connected and possibly sane =)

I am very thankful to have Internet, I don't know how people lived out these type of adventures without it. I am trying to adjust to the fact that it doesn't always work when you want it to.

Another adjustment is security. There was an incident yesterday on the other side of the city and as a result we are restricted as to where we can go. Thankfully no one we know was hurt. I don't envy our security director, he has to make some tough decisions. I am bummed because on Fridays we go grocery shopping and all the grocery stores are on the other side of town. I won't starve but I really look forward to these outings. I know its pathetic to be disappointed that you can't go grocery shopping but getting out during the week is unusual.

There are a variety of reasons why we don't/can't do these things after work. One is the stores are on the other side of town and traffic is terrible during the work week (Sun - Thurs). Traffic here is unlike anything I have experienced, it makes Chicago or LA traffic look like smooth sailing. Cars, bikes, motorcycles, goats, people walking, donkey pulled carts and then the unpaved bumpy roads, makes for an interesting commute.

I'm not complaining about the security restrictions. I prefer that our security director be on the conservative side of things. Its just another transition learning that your schedule isn't really your own. I am just hoping that while we are off for the holiday these next few days, that some stability will return to the area and we can go across town. 4 days in the house will make me a little stir crazy and lonely.

This morning as I was getting ready, I heard what I thought was a child moaning outside. I thought someone was hurt and rushed to the window to see what was going on. I was surprised to see a herd of goats walking down the road. I had to laugh. Guess this is just another transition.
Keep Smiling!