Random Musings (part 1)
I landed in Accra 20 days ago. Here are some things I’ve noticed or experienced since touching down:
• I can’t hear shit. I thought Kwame was just soft spoken. No. Most people here speak low and can hear each other perfectly. Have I been loud my whole life? I’ve seriously looked up ENTs in the area.
• Don’t look nobody in the face if they walk up to your car at a stop light or during a traffic jam. They would surely have all my money. The difference here is that they don’t just beg for money, like in the States. They are offering a service or product. You can buy ANYTHING in traffic; snacks, masks, an AUX cord. But then these cute-ass, hustling-ass kids be leaning on the car and peeking inside, Jesus. No eye contact! I will break if I do.
• The driving here is NYC on steroids. I make the sign of the cross at least 6 times during a 20 minute drive. And there’s not that many traffic lights or stop signs.
• The mattress is a level harder than firm. Thankfully, there’s the nicest home decor spot not far from the apartment and I scored a body pillow. Unfortunately for Kwame, it also doubles as a cuddle blocker and has now been nicknamed “my boyfriend.” More importantly, I’m no longer living in a bachelor pad. We now have accent pillows and new curtains to brighten the place up a bit.
• Spaghetti noodles are served with breakfast, hard-boiled eggs are served all day…with practically everything.
• Not wearing make up here is a huge flex. I thank my genes for the ability to flex daily. But also, wearing layers of makeup in this heat and not looking like Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn in Death Becomes Her is noteworthy!
• Now that I’m living here, I have had to ask questions like, “What number do I dial in case of emergencies?” An ambulance is 112. Kwame said I’d be best phoning a friend than calling the cops.
• I have way too much money in my account. This probably means I forgot to pay bills that are usually on autopay.
• I can’t access certain sites on my phone anymore now that I’m in another country. I’m trying to buy all the Target Black History Month clothes! (Update: VPN purchased. All is well!)
• Math was never my strong suit. Trying to convert miles to kilometers, Fahrenheit to Celsius and cedis to USD is enough to make me dizzy.
• Got my nails done at a new salon and while I was in there for a total of three hours, I’ve found my spot and my nail tech! They use the same builder gel polish I use at home and she shaped my nails perfectly (this is something I usually do myself pre-appointment).
• Across the street from the nail salon is the West Africa office of Ogilvy, a PR firm. For a quick second, I thought about looking up openings. Me? Back at a PR agency? Maybe the heat got to me.
• Out exploring the city on my own today, and when I say on my own, I mean with my trusted driver Albert. As the chief of staff for KLA and our literal body guard, top haggler and traffic whisperer, he feels like family even though he keeps calling me madam.
• There are a couple places I’ve visited that I’d definitely hit up again. Check my TikTok for a visual recap later.
BFly
January 15, 2022 at 3:29 pm
I’m so happy that you’re settled in! Also, very happy that the VPN is set up for all of the target buys! 🙌🏾
Lauren
January 15, 2022 at 3:35 pm
Love this! Such a huge and inspiring move. Can’t wait to read more!
Jjones
January 15, 2022 at 4:12 pm
Love that are you are willing to share your experience with us and you decided to go on this journey!!! Can’t wait for more! 😘
Terri
January 16, 2022 at 11:45 pm
I read this update to Nana and she gave you an A+ on this paper!
Aunt Flora
January 17, 2022 at 4:08 am
Too funny! Glad ur all settled in…and adjusting! Kisses!♥️
Leslee
January 17, 2022 at 10:38 am
Love this❤️Keep the updates coming!
Barb
January 17, 2022 at 11:05 am
Great learnings… absorb and enjoy every minute!
Ashley
January 17, 2022 at 6:38 pm
Loving this! Talk to you Wednesday!
Leah
February 3, 2022 at 11:56 am
You are doing it! I admire your bravery and adventurous spirit! Love you.