Journal entry: January 22, 2014

It is my first morning in Ethiopia.  Addis Ababa, Addis Abeba, Addis.  I have definitely noticed some strange looks... Is it because I am white? or a woman? or perhaps both?  It would be nice, preferable rather to simply blend into the crowd... to put on a cloak and disappear from sight.. to be able to blend...  Breakfast!  I must say, the best scrambled eggs I have ever eaten ??  What is in the food?  During my meal I have seen a man walking his asses down the street and a man walking his cow... the cars are fantastically old ... with the exception of the new ones of course... "Where did you think all the old cars went?"  I suppose to be recycled ... I just didn't think that recycling them into the globalized market economy was an option.  Silly of me to assume such a thing.  In watching the people pass, I think I have a solution to my apparent lack of ability to blend in.  It would appear that some women cover themselves with a scarf.  This must be attempted.  Also...  I have just come from a country in Africa (Ghana) with quite possibly the worst coffee in the world, to one with most definitely the best coffee in the world. Quite.  It is nice to feel the cool air on my skin.  I am glad for all the sweaters and long pants.  I am drinking my second cup of coffee and can hear my teeth chatter.  I sense an air of freedom that I have not felt for some time.