My accommodations for the first 8 days were in a "Lodge". With nothing much to do, I designed this lamp in honor of "the Christmas Story" movie:
The apartment had just been found but Peace Corps needed me to sign the lease and pass the security check. In the meantime, I purchased the lamp for reading at night. The rain boots were a purchase in the US to prepare for the rainy season which is just starting. We call them "gum boots" here. I was surprised that they are very popular in the States right now, too.
On Monday, I started commuting to my new job with National Food and Nutrition Commission on the other side of town. I walked to the Peace Corps office every day asking for a ride. Naturally, that kept everyone focused on moving me over there--so it had the desired effect.
On Thursday I got in to see the place. Outside, the two apartment complexes reminded me of city high rise, but visitors subsequently said they are just like off campus apartments. Anyway, it is on the ground floor with bars on the windows and back porch. Being a south-sider, I will admit to being quite nervous about noise and security. The front door has lettering on it: "African Heritage House Lat 14". When I inquired as to the meaning, I was told that this apartment was used by South African anti-apartheid workers. It is now owned by a Zulu South African Chieftainess who is the president of Zambian women in Agriculture. She is 84 years old and can outwork me.
IInside the door, the foyer opens to the dining/living room and out to the narrow patio which is where we haang our laundry to dry. The patio and windows and doors all have bars on them as we are in the industrial area in a 3 storey walk-up on the ground floor. (Yikes) My south-side Chicago hackles were up when I saw it first, but .... so far it is very quiet at night.
The bathroom
Pretty bwana digs for Peace Corps!
Wow, it looks like you moved into the ¨good part¨ of town. I like your new place and I bet you like having an indoor bathroom especially now during the rainy season. Your boot lamp is cute but not quite as sexy as the original leg lamp. love and miss you
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