Leaving Cotonou, Benin

My bags are packed, my forms are signed, passport in hand, and a warm goodbye. As I packed for the trip home, a bitter sweet feeling rose up in my heart. I have made a few friends/acquaintances that I truly enjoyed getting to know… but their are two friends that will remain friends for hopefully a lifetime. These two girls influenced my life while in Cotonou. Their love for the Lord and their beautiful joyful spirit is contagious. As they both hand me goodbye-for-now letters there is a special place in my heart for them. They are giving and selfless. The love that I felt when leaving was encouraging. I have memories with each one. From the Left in the picture: Hannah, my san Fran girl, who was so open and willing to share who she is and get to know me better. Sarah Oliver, From England, my craft market excursion partner. She and I walked all over Benin trying to find this market, come to find out that we were parading around it like a Carousel. Shauna, From Ohio, who is such a fun person to be around and she has a great taste in music (country girl). Deb, my Australian Mate, who has a contagious laugh and joy for life that I hope to catch. Miriam, who is so sweet and giving, she is attentive and caring. All these girls I learned something from. Memories of intimate talks on deck 8, to games in mid-ships, watching the dive team, experiencing the African life in town; from excursions to markets, to restaurants, and to beaches and riding little tricycles and taking fun photos on my last evening aboard. These are the things that I will miss.