In Kumasi, I have the best of both worlds. I don’t have to own a car but there is always one around when I need one. I love it that I can walk half a mile or less and load up on fresh produce any day of the week and pretty much any time. I can buy cooking oil, onions, bread, sugar, salt, oats, soap, pasta, tomato paste, juice and cookies a couple of doors down or half a block the other way.
I strike out with my list, backpack and shoulder bags and load up. If I don’t get too carried away, I load the back pack with the heavier stuff, sling a bag over each shoulder and walk back home. Bananas are a bit of a challenge. I’ve learned to carry them in my hand lest they turn to banana mash.
If my load gets too heavy for comfort (15 pounds seems to be my limit) I give Mr. Prince a call or simply lift my hand. Within seconds, a taxi will pull over and take me home for 3 cedis or $1.50. I get to practice my social graces and twi and the produce makes it home in style.
Well, I’d better wrap this up. Bob, Jeremy, Justin and I are preparing to walk to a new restaurant for our usual Sunday dinner out. Cook’s night off. I always feel very pampered to have someone else cook for me. And if it starts to rain or we can’t find the place, all we have to do is raise our hands.
