Despite protests from both my sleepy mind and tired body, I was able to wake early. I always feel better throughout the day if I wake up early and don’t have to rush getting ready, so it’s a habit I’m trying to get into.
The breakfast yesterday was better than the day prior. I was hoping that they switch it up frequently so I don’t get too tired of the hotel breakfast, so it was nice to find this altered menu.
Work was good. I got a lot done, but right as the day was closing I realized I made some mistakes in one of my previous projects. A few steps forwards and a couple steps back made my day feel unproductive even though it was anything but.
I’ve been saying for the past few weeks that I enjoy Tanzania more than Ethiopia. I was never quite sure of why this was, but I had a little conversation yesterday that showed me why.
I told my coworker that when I was in Hawassa, the team members there would all leave for lunch right at noon, go home to dine with their families, and take at least two hours for the whole ordeal. The Tanzanian who I was talking to said, “no, here in Tanzania we could not leave you, we would have to take you for lunch with us, that’s just how we are.” And I could think of nothing better to illuminate this concept that I had been grasping at for so long.
I was a bit disappointed because some dancing event was alluded to the day prior by a coworker, but she ended up having to stay late and work and wasn’t able to take me. I was able to use that time, however, to keep my streak alive. I went for my evening run and got to explore some of the city. With my 3 mile run I go from my hotel to one end of the city and back. One of these days I’ll have to go the other direction on the main road to see how big the city truly is.
I was surprised to find that these big ugly crane type birds—which I saw all over the place in Hawassa—also inhabit my new home. The other when I was driving in a saw a monkey, so it seems like I’ll still have some entertainment with the wildlife.
I was debating whether to go out for dinner or eat at the hotel, and I was able to remind myself that I’m here for experiences, not comfort. I walked around for a bit until I found a little spot that was still open at the hour of 7pm. I had some chips and eggs for dinner and some amazing Swahili lessons from my new friends here. I got hope pretty late because we were having such a good time, and by the time I got in bed I was exhausted.
Today I’m still very tired even after sleeping in. Fortunately I have an eventful day ahead of me, so that should perk me up a little bit and give me some energy and motivation.