Arriving in Babati

Yesterday was a whirlwind of commotion as we prepared to leave for Babati. The girls ironed their clothes, scrubbed their shoes, and packed their bags so full I thought some had plans of not coming back! Dressed in their Sunday's best, the 8 of us said our goodbyes and walked the long 3km into town. The bus was scheduled to leave at 1pm, but of course African time dicates here, and we didn't roll out of the bus station until nearly 2:30pm. I passed the time reading a newspaper and buying tempting snacks that were being hawked through the open windows and door. Roasted peanuts, lollipops, biscuts, and assorted drinks are sold from deteriorating cardboard boxes perched perfectly ontop of the heads of young women and men. Sitting in the first seat behind the door and being a muzungu, the snack vendors couldn't resist me. At one point, I had 5 people all selling the same snacks, pushing their merchandise into my face, "Muzungu, muzungu!!" they yelled, as if I was deaf and standing 50 meters away. I buried my face behind the pages of the newspaper and tried not to be noticed.

Once we left the bus station, the chaso didn't end. Police checks, falling baggage, a young girl getting sick in my lap, and what seemed like a contest to see how many people could squeeze inside the bus and hang off the sides, were all just part of the 3 hour ride that never left chance for a dull moment. The uncomfort created by the chaos inside the bus was obliterated by the passing scenery. Tall yellow-green grasses stretched on for miles, the high clouds and late afternoon sun cast warm shadows on the deep green hills. Massai villagers cloaked in red, herded their goats and cattle, taking respite from the sun under the cool shade of an acacia tree. Kids chased eachother and rolled down the hills, smiling, waving, or simply staring at the white face zooming by in the bus.

We arrived in Babati tired and dusty. But thanks to Zach's many friends who live in Babati, we were warmly welcomed into the guesthouse and shown to our rooms. The place is basic, but clean and very comfortable. And, at just 3000 Tsh per night (about $2.50), there's no complaints. After cleaning up, we enjoyed a great fish, rice, and greens dinner, followed by chai. The chai had extra cloves and cardamon which reminded me of Christmas time. It was a great end to a long day.