I have learned several new languages since arriving on this island. Obviously I've learn some key Bajan phrases like - I'll go by you tomorrow (I'll go to your house) or the other being You come by me. But the most important language to learn is when and how to honk...as in the horn on your car. Don't get any visions of me wandering around verbally honking at people! Ok, so honking is a total culture here. People honk ALL the time. It's mostly hello. If you see someone from blocks away that you may possibly have met once...you honk. It is also very constomary to honk a thank you when someone lets you in (as opposed to the two finger wave from the steering wheel) and then to honk back - you're welcome. Occasionally you honk when you're mad, but that's pretty rare. Oh and you definitely honk when you pull up at someone's house for them to come out - so mom, it is not just unruly boys in Almonte who think it's fine to call on someone that way!!!
Now that I've started at the hospital I feel a little more settled in. I'm still adjusting to wards with big open windows where birds fly in and out onto the patient's beds, and also hallways that suddenly have no side wall and you are actually outside. It is really fun to work with kids. A lot of the little ones stare at me like I'm an alien...there's not many white people around here! But its good because it distracts them while we examine. There a couple really sweet babies all alone who have been abandoned and are in the process of being put up for adoption. Partly it breaks my heart to see them crying alone, with no one cuddling them and spending time with them, but partly I am happy that someone had the courage to say - I can't give you the life you need. I just wish I could sneak onto the ward and rock them to sleep :)
Today I was brave enough to wander around downtown by myself and then find my way home on the bus. Nothing terribly exciting to report about that...it was hot...there were lots of people...I like jewellery and tried on a LOT! hahahaha. One of my friends just arrived here on vacation, so we will probably hit up the beach a lot this weekend. I'm also planning to go on a cruise on Sunday where I get to swim with sea turtles!!
I think that is basically the short version of my life for the last couple days. I have taken a ton of pictures, so if you would like a private viewing and story telling session when I get home, then you'll have to come visit me! Mwahahaha (evil laugh)....that's my way of tricking you all into coming over and keeping me company :)
Lots of love
Pamela
So they honk alot - you could play Canada Goose and honk as well. No I guess you better not they'll think you are a crazy tourist and want to put you away.
ReplyDeleteSo the bambinos are cute. Good thinh big bro isn't there he would want to play with them. interesting how the kids notice the difference in skin colour and that ist distracts them so that you can check them over.
I've hear alot about playing with dolpins but not much about swimming with turtles. careful that they don't snap.
Drier today in the land of the great white father although the temperature is still in the high 20's.
Have a great weekend absorbing the local highlights, culture and not too much sun