It was a miraculous trip right from start, how I was not able to book on line leading to Jo came on board with me. If I had my choice, I would probably book the fligt which would be detoured by the typhoon. As of now, we were only delayed for 2 hours on each side of the airports, which gave us the opportunity to have a get together with Ja (who was returning at the same time from Alberta) and T at the airport lounge.
J ended up taking the best family photo he ever had.

I had not walked in such big rain storm among so many people for a long time. Good thing - one of us enjoyed it. Three days in a roll, we braved the weather to go out and about and to enjoy the flora, fauna
and feathered friends in the two beautiful parks at sling shot. We went up to the peak two times, in two great contrasting conditions. The first time was like waiting for our lives in a refugee camp. The second time was like riding in a Rolls Royce to a private resort.

We visited a beautiful ornamental garden; shopped for clothing (which proved to be hard work); walked the flower market; visited an art meseum; went to the beach where Jo had a dip. We had lots of good food. They were remember in photos. M was able to come out to join us for dinner several times. She was happy. Jo insisted to pick up a bouquet for her on our last night. That was very thoughtful of her.

We had some squabbles during those days. But it turned out to be good for our relationship, as we tuned into each other and navigate through the intricate feelings. Baring our thought without using harsh words.
That is what make genuine friendship possible.

We visited couple of farms in the blazing sun and drenching sweat. It was interesting how willing are people when they have a vision for their project. To me, it is like farming in the jungle. I would have great trouble to decide where to spend my time - getting rid of the weeds or growing the plants I want.

Then came the day when we had to cross the border. Unlike it here. We had to get off the bus, declared leaving the place, back on the bus, drove a short distance, dragged all our luggage, declared entering another territory, got back on the same bus, then drove away.

It was a good thing S & S met us on the other side. Immediately, S helped Jo to get on the web to find out where she was going to meet with her friend. We would be at a lost without him. The next morning, we took Jo to the busy bus terminal and saw her off safely. Then we went to visit a local meseum. It had quite a display of the history there. After that, I was on my own to take care of some details with D for another day and half.

It was another shock to cross the border again. There were thousands of people lining up. I nearly could not believe my eyes. I regret I didn't go for the taxi short-cut. I ended up dragging my heavy suit case ( a life lesson on over packing) among the sweltering crowd, back and forth the long loops. In the end, I even had to cut through a moving mommoth with sheer force inorder to get to the car which took me to the airport. I felt like a refugee, while the rest were just lining up in order to have a day of fun.

I was happy to be back to my old nest. For a while, I can take any harassment or incovenience with big strides, until my nerves calm down again.