June 18, 2011

I had a wonderful birthday in Togo!  We went to Kpalime today to shop.  It is the nearest "big city" to the hospital in Tsiko (pronounced "chico" I don't know if I told you that already).  We shopped at the mission blind center.  All of the proceeds go to help fund the blind center where blind kids can go to learn a trade and get an education.  We then went to the market which was huge!  There was stall after stall of food, toiletries, fabric and knockoff shoes.  I got some rally pretty fabric at some booths.  The women here wear dresses made of one of these patterned fabrics and have a shawl and head wrap to match.  We then went to the artisanal center where craftsmen sell their wares.  There were woodcarvings, tie-dyed fabrics, pottery and jewelry.  Some of the carvings are so intricate and beautiful.  We had lunch at Hotel Royal.  It is a small hotel owned by a European woman and is a favorite of the long term missionaries.  After running some errands we came back to the hospital and relaxed.  Apparently, a van crashed on the mountain, so 10-12 people were admitted to the hospital.  Dad went up to help out with the overflow.  It's been a nice, relaxing day.  A great way to turn 18!