Dar es Salaam

I am sitting on the floor in a room of the Kagame Hotel here in Dar es Salaam, using Godfrey's laptop. Spending the night before continuing on my travel to Chome. Didn't know until yesterday if I were going to be able to go. But, as usual, God had great things in store as I trusted in Him.

Yesterday morning, I finally got ahold of a friend of mine who said he might be able to meet me and travel with me to Chome. Godfrey had been in Dar since Sunday, and he suggested I come from Mafinga to Dar today, so we can travel to Same tomorrow. Didn't know if it was going to happen. There was so much to figure out!

When I arrived at the Primary School yesterday morning, I was able to talk with the principal, Meida, right away about the possibility of my absence for a week-and-a-half. She said that was absolutely fine, with no further ado. That taken care of, after lunch, I commenced packing my backpack for Chome. Packing sure is a different story when you are already in the country you are traveling to! :) Exchanged dollars for Tanzanian shillings, talked with "Uncle Jason," and let Godfrey know I was coming.

Hemmed a skirt for a roommate last night: she got it caught in her bicycle chain multiple times, poor thing! She said, "What are we going to do without our cook, seamstress, and janitor for over a week!" :) Woke to my alarm at six o'clock this morning, knowing I had to be ready to leave by six forty-five.

One of the missionary families here was already driving by Mafinga on their way to sell some sheep, so they were able to drop me off. Their seventeen-year-old son (who speaks at least three languages fluently) helped me purchase a ticket for the "Mapanda Express" and made sure I knew where to stand to await the bus.

Befriended a lady from Mafinga by asking her the time. Her seat was across the aisle from mine. What are the chances! God worked that out! It was a long bus ride-- 8am to 5-something pm. With only two bathroom breaks! I faired quite well, surprisingly. :)

Godfrey met me at the busy bus station. So glad he was there! We rode a "bajaj" to to a hotel just around the corner. Nice rooms. And a fan that works wonderfully! Only $18.75 for my room for the night. Envious? :)

Godfrey introduced me to his fiance! Her name Sara and she is from Dar. Godfrey left me with the laptop while he escorted her home. He has returned now and we are going to find something to eat. 8pm here now. A late meal and exploration of the city, but I'm sure it will be fun, nontheless! His room is just down the hall from mine. Perfect!

We will leave for Same tomorrow at around 7am. He purchased bus tickets for us already.

All I can say is, God is good. Was worried about how all this would work out. Was worried about traveling by myself. But God is working in mighty ways. Thanks for the prayers! Greetings to all back home! Miss you guys!