I went to three events with John this week (he’s still the Chargé d’affaires). Monday night was the celebration/dinner for the University of Guyana graduation. It was in a big pavilion on campus, and many of the graduates were in attendance in their finery. It was fun to see them!
Friday John hosted AmCham Guyana at the Ambassador’s residence. Each year the Chamber brings in senior citizens from assisted living facilities to treat them to turkey lunch. It was fun to see them and they seemed to have a good time. In addition to the seniors, we met many AmCham members, as well. John gave a welcome speech to kick things off, in addition to carving the turkey.
Last night we attended the Suriname Independence Day celebration. The Suriname ambassador to Guyana spoke, along with the Guyana prime minister. They had some indigenous dancing, singing, and drumming and showcased Surinamese products.
Other big news is that the Toyota 4Runner arrived this week! I went to the embassy with John on Friday, and after going to the revenue office to get our drivers’ licenses, I drove the truck home. It’s a bit unnerving because they drive on the other side of the road than us, so my brain is going to have to get rewired for that, plus our car is left-hand drive. Wish me luck!
I finished reading Fay Weldon’s “The Life and Loves of a She-Devil” (very strange!). We finished the original Inspector Lynley series and started on Prime Suspect with Helen Mirren. I enjoyed chatting with Joan and also with Lea this week. Lea was in Guadalajara and it was fun to hear about our old stomping grounds and folks at the consulate there.
I was very sad to hear than Ann Antkiw passed away this morning. She was in the Little Theatre Group and worked for the Tico Times in Costa Rica, and was one of the wonderful ladies who welcomed me when I arrived there in 1996. She was a force of nature. Rest in peace, Ann.
