But just like in the US, officials totally spruced up the town for a special visit. Streets were swept and striped, fencing put up around some property, some buildings torn down, and cars were not allowed on certain streets prior to his visit. It was late in the afternoon when he finally arrived and spoke outside the Masalli Cultural Center. It was broadcast later on AZ teevee.
On that afternoon, I also had to walk to the post office to pick up a package, so I really noticed the lack of cars and police. On most days, there are Mercedes, Ladas, taxis, and mini-vans for transportation. Instead, men and boys were milling about the vacant streets waiting for his arrival.
It was a beautiful Spring day, so it was an interesting and enjoyable walk for me. While the town has been beautified, many residents have had their gas shutoff April 1st. Fortunately, I am able to heat water for the coffee and the cereal on a propane tank, the only source of cooking heat for now. All in all, it was a good week for me.
Sounds like a pleasant week. I don't know how much time you have for reading or what kind of access you have to books (Kindle?), but I just read a goodie you might like - the biography of Gertrude Bell called "Desert Queen" by Janet Wallach. Gertrude was quite the gal but nonetheless one of those British Imperialists who, it happens, shaped much of modern day middle east following WWI. Kathleen
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