I suppose that is true of anywhere in the world but seeing as South Africa is my 'homeland' being back brings back emotional memories that I have developed over the years.
The first experience was still in Dallas before we even left. There were 'the others' on the flight from Dallas to Dulles that I suspected would be joining us on the next flight to SA. I was right on all counts and it turned out that those 'others' had us made too. Almost immediatly we all joined forces and had mutual complaints to compare. It's so hard being away, the kids cant play with thier cousins, the flight is so long, so expensive, so crampy. I haven't seen my family in *** years. The next experience at Dulles magnifies the first. All the questions and complaints are the same except you can add to them. Hello my doll, how long you goin for? will you be in Cape Town? The kosher food is so gross etc etc. American's ignore this tirad but I know my South African friends are all remembering their own experiences flying home.
Some things that don't happen in SA are: Short lines at passport contol, enough luggage carts and organized luggage carousels. Fortunately for us today was different.
Reunion was a blast and I figgured out how to push two carts and video Ariella's reunion at the same time. I told her to run ahead so I could catch it all on tape for posterity. We both love to watch the video's of our trips and this adds to our collection. how lucky. I funally made it out and got my own squeeze's - yum , I'm with my peeps now.
Leaving the airport, I am rather dizzy (that is my version of jet lag - i am dizzy for a week) but don't fail to notice the security. I keep my mouth shut because most South African's get very defensive if you 'notice' it aloud as 'there is crime in America too!" I do slip up every now and then and notice it aloud and am put in my place immediatly. Note to self "Locals take it personally if you comment on crime and security - keep mouth shut"
Next day was a dizzy blur but I thanked G-d for the sun that we were enjoying and the splashes from the pool as Ariella and her cousins swam. I am living on borrowed summer - gratitude.
Friday was massage, pedicure, lunch on the strip and other experiences that can 'only happen in SA" not that these are indiginous but simply not what i would see in Dallas.
Friday night was "we are family, I've got all my sista's with me, and aunts and uncles and cousins and parents" I changed the words. How mind blowingly unreal to have all these people together under one roof and for me to be present - in body and not just spirit.
At thie stage of the trip it is a tad hard to relax but I have found it in me to take a nap every single day. I hope that I will start to stop my work brain for a little??
Ariella has forgotten that i exist and is flitting around town being a social butterfly with play dates, sleep overs and enjoying being out of school. Fun for her
