Saturday morning. I'm at the office after a quiet morning at home--Sheer Bliss I'm out of the top bunk and into a double bed in my OWN ROOM! Also found a cafe today that's near the office and I can order a cappuncino. Privacy and coffee--two things I treasure. Now if I could have a hot shower, I'd be in bliss. However, as one of housemates, Lesley, puts it, "We're very happy chicks here."
The big water cooler news this morning is all about the petrol crisis. It seems as if the allocations were based on last year's needs. Unfortunately, with all the NGO and relief workers here in Port-au-Prince along with their gas guzzling 4-wheel drives, the supply is severely depleted. No one knows when it will be replenished so we're restricted to business-related only transportation. This effectively nixed by plan of visiting Haitian markets this afternoon. Maybe next week.
Since I haven't been out and about, I haven't taken any photos, but I'm trying to attach some that a Habitat photographer recently took to give you some idea of what surrounds me. Unfortunately, my technical skills are limited (yes, really) and so I'm calling out to Des for help.
I understand now more than ever the importance of a curfew. Our driver this morning told me of a woman (Habitat contractor) who was determined to out salsa dancing and she wound up being taken by two men. Happily, she had the presence of mind to call Richard (head of security) and she was rescued. But another woman here was kidnapped three times! Apparently, it's common practice and an easy way to make money. The kidnappers state the ransom, money is exchanged and the person is returned to the NGO. I'm following all the rules, and our house is protected by three armed guards, so I feel very safe. Back to work but more to follow. Love Barbara
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