What'd I miss?

My peanut, the peanut's father and I have been back in Liberia since mid February. 

I went to America with considerable anxiety, wondering how'd I'd pass my time and concerned about missing the day-to-day activities of my business. I knew I was just worried and eventually, I'd settle in and the day would come I'd be sad to leave. And of course, the day came when I was utterly overwhelmed by feelings of nostalgia, humility, gratitude, and sadness. 

I had a really good time in Chicago, exploring and photographing it. I got myself a Chicago City Pass and saw some famous sights like the Art Institute and the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). I shopped on State Street. Lunched at the elegant Walnut Room at the State Street Macy's during the Christmas season. Strolled along the river downtown. Learned the difference between the "L" and " the Loop" and "CTA." Whined and moaned about the CTA.  Blew some money on boutiques in Southport. Bought a lot of souvenir mugs: almost one from every museum, Julius Meinl, Intelligentsia before I realised that unless I stop, I'll end up with as many mugs as socks I have. Every friggin' place now has The Mug, The T-Shirt, The Fridge Magnet, The Key Chain and The Coaster.  Even places that are trying to be cool. Coffeehouses I get, the rest I don't. Obliged and "liked" the relevant Facebook pages.  Got coffee-drunk on countless caramel frappuccino's, hot chocolates and "holiday drinks." And, even though it was apparently a mild winter, experienced some of the Windy City's icy cold on my face and loved it!

On the flight back, while missing Chicago, Chipo and feeling all misty, I happened to watch the new Anthony Bourdain TV programme, "Layover." And guess which city AB was layover-ing in? Chicago. And, it looks like I didn't even see half the cool spots. Well, we'll surely be back to see our friend Chipo who we miss so much and want to see this beautiful iconic city in the summer. 

We bought a whole tin of Garett's popcorn at the O'hare Airport (cool airport, loved the replica of Sue) before boarding our Chicago-Brussels flight. Every night we have some in our Monrovia apartment and get all misty remembering Chicago and Chipo. She's actually the one who loves popcorn. 

So, what'd I miss in Monrovia since I've been gone?

1) Apparently there's a new bakery in town: 

L'oven Bakery

UN Drive

05/990 000

077/526526

0886/594444

2) The Chinese restaurant has moved again from Palm hotel. For all the years I've been here, that Chinese restaurant has changed chefs, floors and been in and out of the hotel. I hear it's moved out again and is now located on Broad Street. Can't wait to go and check it out soon.

3) Royal hotel finally had its grand opening. Apparently, even the President attended the opening. Does the President show up for everything?  Is her show-up fee really that small? Would she show up for the new paint job at our office?

4) Fuschia disappeared! One of my favourite gift shops in town, it no longer exists. The places has been torn down to make way for a new building. We later met the owner who explained that the landlord wants to put up a new building.

Owners seem to be 'waking up' and re-claiming their property, driving up rents, and/or investing in new construction since stability and a relative economic boom has returned to the country. I've seen that there is usually several layers of leases until one can reach the so-called 'mother lease.' One of the main reasons for this confusion is that only 'citizens' can own property.

5) A high level conference was held sometime in February which was attended by David Cameron of all people. Apparently, a new set of MDGs was discussed. 

This star conference was so concerned with discussing poverty and other dire issues that they overlooked what impact such a high-security and delicate conference would have on a small, congested city like Monrovia. Apparently, Tubman Boulevard was blocked and traffic became a nightmare. While we were in Chicago, our staff demanded an extra transportation allowance for the duration of the conference so they could take motorcycle taxis instead of the ordinary taxis. 

Such high publicity stunts keep proving over and over again that Sirleaf's government is really all about looking good, pandering to the international propaganda and hollow rhetoric and is entirely without substance. 

6) There are some new traffic lights! But no report on whether it has improved traffic. 

7) The Google Expats Group has become a most bizarre and random forum reminding one that Liberia's mix of expatriate NGO and UN types, local business types and locals is unique and entertaining. 

I actually go through the list to entertain and remind myself that I really live in a place where most people who have means and brains are actually a fleeting lot, here for short-term stays, trying to save the world and businesses here are vying for their attention. 

And here are some highlights:

1. "She must be very attractive" I am sending this urgent vacancy publication on behalf to my company POWERLINE INC. Office Secretary needed below the qualification and responsibilities. Female applicants strongly needed. Excellent English oral and written communication skills. 1 year of experience. She must be very attractive.   
2. One of  the funny responses to above: "Looks like Powerline has foot in mouth disease. Way to objectify women!"
3. Another one: "This must surely be a joke..."
4. I want to make a tattoo. Can anyone recommend someone with experience or a place in Monrovia where I can do it?
5. "her dry rice and grilled fish is the bomb dot com" Hi guys-- I just wrote a new post about my favorite restaurant in Liberia called Vicky's Fingers. This isn't an advertisement, her dry rice and grilled fish is the bomb dot com, and I just wanted to show a hard working woman a little love! Let me know if you want to check it out with me this weekend! She's located in a little nook on the Old Road.
6. None of your beeswax Does anyone know who might be interested in purchasing beeswax?
7. Want to quit smoking and can't get a hold of my hair dresser - help! "Hi All, 1)      I have been smoking for more than 40 years. ( Sixty a day in recent years) For no particular reason I woke up the other morning and decided to give it up. Having searched some pharmacies all I can find is some nicotine chewing gum. Does anyone know where I can get patches or/and the give up smoking tablets? All advice is will be very welcome as I am suffering. 2)      Sandy the Hairdresser could you ring me? I just can’t get through on your number . Thanks
8. I am looking for a reliable and honest House Boy for hire. Would appreciate any recommendations from the forum. I may be contacted on telephone number or by return email.
9. If you've been looking for a Church that  is definitely not church as usual in Liberia, then Trinity Chapel Monrovia (TCM) is the Church for you. TCM is the latest church plant of Nairobi Chapel in Kenya, and it's meant to be different. As a Church we believe in meeting people where they are, and not criticizing on judging. We believe God has called us to serve the professional community of Liberia whose needs are often overlooked.
10. Looking for a good part time gardener who have experience working with flowers and fruits that are know to grow in countries such as Kenya, Holland, and South Africa.
11. Need to do silent meditation somewhere between..."Does anybody know if there is a silent meditation group here? I like Buddhist teachings, but am not a Buddhist. Somewhere between Sinkor and Mamba point would be ideal."
12. Have you found any house boy yet? I have one recommendation for you.
13. Well, I give up!  I think the information about a hairdresser called Sandy is fictitious LOL.  I have been trying to call her with no luck at all.  As I have to travel into Monrovia from the Buchanan area I need a reliable point of contact.  I am getting close to needing some serious attention to my hair....is there anyone out there who has the expertise or will mysterious Sandy appear?  
14. Sandy is still on vacation. Should be back next week.
15. "Hi all and happy new year!!! I'm back in liberia and ready for your hair! For appointments or details, plz contact me by message or call. Cheers sandy