There was a slight bit of culture shock as I adjusted to being home. The first thing I noticed was being able to drive and that there are actual rules of the road that people follow. When I wasn't driving, it took me a while to get used to being allowed to sit in the front seat. The entire time I have been in Afghanistan, I can only think of one time I sat in the front. I'm not even sure that time counts since it was on my way from the airport when I first arrived.
The cost of fresh fruit and vegetables shocked me. But here, I pay $9 for a box of cereal, maybe $1.49 per lb of banana's isn't bad? I had a mini melt down in one store as I was trying to buy some pens to bring back. I haven't seen so many choices for things in a long time. Here, you buy whats available and are just thankful if you get a choice.
Some may call this culture shock, others may think I have PTSD. I was sitting at a traffic light and as a motorcycle drove by, it back fired. Before I knew it, I ducked behind my steering wheel. I also found it a little hard to get dressed. Suddenly skirts that come to my knees feel very short and when I tried on a sun dress, I didn't think I had enough clothes on.
It was a fabulous time at home. I feel recharged and ready to face the next few months. It is an adjustment to be here. I miss the water pressure I had at home. Wireless internet, I had forgotten how amazing it was. And consistent electricity, need I say more? I enjoyed my time at home; being allowed to walk around and not be a spectacle is a true gift.
