July 30th. Travel day. My birthday.
Months 5, 6, & 7 are now completed. Africa was amazing, more than I expected. I knew, from the comments of others, that Africa is a universal favorite; however, I never realized I would fall in love with the area. I am sad to be leaving southern Africa, but excited for what the last 4 months of the race hold. Our flight left Cape Town the afternoon of the 29th. That meant the 30th of July would begin in the air, somewhere over the Arabian Peninsula. High in the air over God’s amazing creation, my friends didn’t let 12:01 come before they sang me Happy Birthday and presented me with a present.
We landed in Dubia as the clocked ticked by and ushered in my “special day.” As I navigated the airport, I saw a man with a starbucks in hand. thats right…a starbucks cup! Of course I alerted everyone to my observation and went on a mission. My search didn’t take me too far; I bumped into the coffee chain’s line nearly around the corner from our gate. As far as birthday gifts go, Starbucks will always rank high on my list, but after 7 months on instant coffee, Starbucks was like hitting the jackpot in Vegas! I was elated to say the least.
Later in the day Jenna, John Frank and I were sitting in the Mumbia international terminal’s food court. With 8 hours to entertain ourselves, there was really no hurry to do anything or go anywhere. Some people took advantage of the Spa in the terminal and treated themselves to massages! Jenna decided she wanted to plan my life. Ok! It was so much fun listening to what others forsee for my life. It gives a unique perspecitive in how they view my personality, value my opinions and interests, etc. By the way-I’m going to own and run a hostel in Europe in my future**. Also, they started a running bet as to how long I’ll stay in the United States before leaving again***; they really do know and believe in my interests and dreams!
***also, would you like to bet? how long do you think I’ll stay before leaving again?
