Personal Update

Today makes it 16 days since my cycling accident.  I feel much better and have little pain.  It is still difficult for me to sleep though and I always wake up with soreness.

Yesterday, I had a follow up appointment with the orthopedic doctor.  While the crack in the left humerus has healed, I personally wondered if I messed it up a few days ago when I nearly fell on some stairs, the doctor said I still have to wait 4 more weeks.  Meanwhile, we are trying to schedule physical therapy for my shoulder.

On the bright side, the gash on my left hand is now about one inch in diameter.  All the cuts and abrasions on my left side and ribs are gone.  It does still hurt my ribs when I sneeze though. 

I hope to start doing some type of exercise program.  The doctor recommended a stationary bike.  I'll have to see if I can find one or if a gym has some cheap usage options.

Sao Miguel: Day 3

I slept better and felt rested the next morning.  We enjoyed another breakfast of fresh squeezed orange juice, bread, cheese and scrambled eggs.  I enjoyed a couple cups of coffee.  On this day, we planned to visit a tea plantation, Hotel Monte Palace, and Lagoa das Sete Cidates.  It was a great day in spite of fog rolling in and obscuring most of the sights.

Let me be honest, I wasn’t thrilled about visiting a tea plantation.  I prefer to drink coffee and hope to one day visit a coffee plantation.  Nevertheless, I’ve learned to keep an open mind about visiting new places.  I once didn’t want to see the Trevi Fountain.  I am so glad I did.  If you’ve never seen the Trevi Fountain in person, you must.  If it is penciled in on some future agenda, chisel it in stone.  Of course, my point is to be open to trying new things when you travel.  We live in a big world and you may be pleasantly surprised when you do something out of the norm.

Cha Gorreana overlooks the ocean and is nestled near the coastal towns of Sao Bras and Maia.  When you drive by you see row after row of trimmed shrubbery.  It is eye catching from the road.  We were able to park next to the building.  There is a room showing a video describing the process of getting tea from the field to your cup.  We sat and watched this upon entering.  Growing and getting tea to the consumer is a much more labor intensive process than I previously thought.

My family and I selected cups and teas to sample.  We also purchased some goodies to go with them.  Ultimately, we tasted each of the two types of tea offered.  As we made our way to the museum portion of the building, I noted the various types of liquors available for purchase.  I felt several would be tasty additions to the tea we drank.

We didn’t take a guided tour since we had a full day planned.  We walked through several rooms with different machines, and read the placards at various stations.  I don’t remember any signs being in a language other than Portuguese.  I believe a guided tour is worthy if you wish to take one.  We passed two during our walk-through and the guides seemed very knowledgeable and friendly.  I understand they are also free.  One more note:  Tea was placed in each room and the aromas were wonderful.  My son mentioned a few times how he liked the fragrances.  If he said that, it must be good.

Walking the grounds truly gives an idea of the plantation’s size.  It is beautiful to see but amazing to consider how much tea that must receive care.  Be sure to go across the highway and walk through the rolling hills.  We thought it was pretty driving by but there is much more to take in when you walk the property.  Cha Gorreana is a worthwhile stop.  Make the time and go there.

We returned to the car and on to our next destinations:  Hotel Monte Palace, and Lagoa das Sete Cidates.  We decided to stop at a scenic overview and weren’t disappointed.  We walked over to the spot where sightseers looked up and down the coastline.  Tthere was a couple from the US taking pictures.  We offered to take their picture and they did the same for us.  It turns out we were on the same flight into Ponta Delgada.

Looking at the map, it seemed to me the quickest route to our destination was the most direct.  However, Paul had recommended going down to Ponta Delgada since it would be highway most of the way.  We did as suggested.  Here is some good news for people who plan to rent a car on the island of Sao Miguel:  There are two gas stations within a few miles of the airport when driving the highway from the east.

Shortly after passing the airport, there are towns to drive through.  Like all the others encountered, they were quaint.  I can’t help but think they feel like home.  The road turned to the northwest and we looked at the ocean beyond the coast.  Clouds were rolling in quickly and we hoped to arrive at the lakes before they were obscured.

We knew we were close to the hotel and then we were suddenly there.  Hotel Monte Palace appeared out of the ever thickening fog.  It seemed strange to see such a large building sit abandoned.  Still, we were excited to see what we could see.  As we walked toward the hotel entrance, we could see people sitting on top.  It seemed they were on the roof.  How did they get up there?

An odd sensation came over me as we entered.  Hotel Monte Palace was once an amazing hotel.  That is obvious as you walk among the ruins.  There is debris throughout and I’m sure people have taken mementos over the years.  If you visit Hotel Monte Palace, be careful.  You must be mindful of your steps and where you are going.  The elevators are gone and you can easily step off and fall to certain injury and or death.  The whole place was quite eerie to me.  We worked our way up some circular stairs and across the building.  Finally, we arrived at the area where we saw the people sitting.  Then we went a level higher than that.

We gazed out at the lakes below and watched the clouds roll over the hills.  How I wished it was a sunny day but I decided to make the best of it.  I snapped the best photos I could.  Then we headed for some scenic spots on the other side of the lake.  Again, I wished for clear skies but I also appreciated the cool breezes on my sunburnt face.

Returning home, we decided to drive around in downtown Ponta Delgada.  This wasn’t a terrible idea since it was fun to see the city.  However, the streets were narrow and many were one way.  It wasn’t long before we felt we needed to get out and back home.  We were getting hungry and had planned to dine at Os Melos and partake of the smorgasbord they promoted when we ate there.

Traffic was heavy and there were few signs to show us the way out.  Finally, we worked our way back the way we came and saw a sign for a town in the direction we needed to go.  We arrived at Os Melos before the smorgasbord was finished but, as feared, the food options were few and some were cold.  Nonetheless, we got our fill and drove home.

Our son had to return the following morning but we still had time.  I asked Paul about my wife, daughter and I staying an additional night.  Since they had no guests coming in, we were happy to have one additional day with Paul and Natérsia.  We made plans to fly to Lisbon for two days.  Our son wanted to return to the waterfall he enjoyed two days prior.  This time we took the road through town.  He and our daughter both got in the water while my wife and I took pictures.

The air was cool and the sky pretty during the walk home.  Again, our sunburns appreciated the breeze.  We petted a dog eager for attention as we entered the town.  Paul and Natérsia invited us for some special Azores goodies and drinks.  It was nice getting to know this sweet couple more.  Paul hopes to add two more buildings to his property to be used as Airbnb homes.  We hope he is able to break ground on them soon.

Sao Miguel: Day 2

Day 2, and our first full day in the Azores, dawned bright and cloudless.  My wife awoke and went to the kitchen and made some fresh squeezed orange juice from oranges provided for us by our hosts, Paul and Natérsia.  I made some coffee from the single serving machine.  It was good, strong coffee.
After dining on eggs, bread, cheese, and delicious marmalade we started preparing for the day.  Since we purchased bread and cheese at the restaurant the previous evening, we packed both with lunch meats provided by our wonderful hosts.  The plan was to drive to Vila Franca do Campo (Townsville--that's what Google Translate says) on the south side of the island, and then to Furnas, a charming town in the center of the island.  Off the coast, there is a volcanic crater called Islet of Vila Franca do Campo and we simply had to see it.

We loaded up the car, opened a map given to us after clearing customs the previous day, and headed out.  Driving on Sao Miguel isn't too bad.  They drive on the right side of the road from the left side of the car.  I originally rented a car for our Azores stay and noted every car offered had a manual transmission.  Therefore, if you plan to drive there, you must know how to drive a stick shift.
We didn’t use a GPS.  The map given to us was adequate.  If you know how to read a map, a GPS isn’t necessary to drive around Sao Miguel.  Simply keep in mind as long as you know the major towns in the general direction of where you wish to travel, you will be able to get to your destination.  If you need to find something specific within the towns, you may need to ask for directions.  All locals we encountered were more than willing to help.  I’ll mention one in particular later.

Due to the hilly terrain in the center of Sao Miguel, the roads are filled with twists and turns.  If you like scenic drives, you won’t be disappointed driving through Sao Miguel.  Coming down out of the hills into Vila Franca do Campo is beautiful.  We went to the Marina area but found the free parking full.  There is additional free parking two blocks away that has picnic tables.

There are many activities available in the marina area.  You can go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, rent various aquatic craft, and do some water tours.  Also, you can visit the many shops and places to eat.  We took some time to investigate our options.  Whale watching was of great interest but the young man advised there was no guarantee we would see any whales.  He said we had about a 70% chance of see whales and 90% chance of some type of sea life.  I appreciated his honesty.  It makes sense wild animals don’t show up on cue for humans to look at them.  Since the fee per person was about $70 USD, we decided to explore options to visit the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo.

A short walk toward the end of the marina is a small white booth where you can purchase a seat on small boat shuttle to the islet.  With hourly departures and only 6 Euros per person, we felt going to the islet with CNVCF was the right decision.  We just missed a departure but decided to fill the time by going to the beach.  Just a short walk away is a public beach.

With dark, course sand, Vinha da Areia (Vineyard of the Sand) is a wonderful beach.  Since it was still early in day, we had the beach mostly to ourselves.  The water was chilly as you would expect in early June.  Once in water, it was refreshing.  There are some prominent rocks that accentuate the beauty of the area.  Behind the beach there is a waterpark that was closed at the time.  Also, there are bathrooms and showers for beach goers.

At the appropriate time, we met the boat for our ride out to the islet.  It is a short 10 minute ride to the dock on the islet.  Several people were waiting to return.  We explored the rocks and cliffs of this atoll and worked our way to a small beach area with a sandbar.  There is one main opening and a few cracks that allow water and waves to come in.  When standing on the sandbar, I found it interesting when waves from two different directions washed up to us.

Since we wanted to go to thermal pools in the town of Furnas, we only stayed on the atoll for one hour.  Soon we were back at the dock for our return.  By this time, I knew I was getting sunburned.  We planned to buy sunscreen after arriving in the Azores and I looked in one of the shops in the marina.  No luck.

Once back on land, my wife and I planned to walk to a grocery a few blocks away.  The kids wanted to go to the beach again.  We parted ways and my wife and I went to the street for the grocery.  We received directions earlier in the day.  By this time we had eaten lunch at a picnic table by the car.  We hoped to buy sunscreen and things to eat and drink.

About a block up the street we saw a man walking toward us in the middle of the street.  He slowly angled toward us and stopped at a door to unlock it.  My wife asked him in Spanish if there was a grocery nearby.  He answered in English there was and offered to walk us there.  We didn’t want him to go to that trouble but he insisted.  As we walked up the street, he asked where we were from.  We said near Atlanta, Georgia.  Surprised, he replied, “I used to live in Newnan.”  Taken aback, we both blurted, “We live in Newnan!”

Of course, there was much to discuss with this common point of interest.  Soon, we reached a store and we thanked him for his kindness.  We parted with contented hearts.  We purchased plenty of water and several other items at the store but no sunscreen.  I could feel my face was hot.  I imagined it would be peeling in a couple days.

After getting the kids, we returned to the car.  They talked about playing volleyball with other people on the beach and how fun it was even though there was a language barrier.  It goes to show people can enjoy each other and not completely understand things said.  It is a matter of having an accepting spirit.

In Furnas, I stopped to top off the gas and we asked how to reach the thermal pools park.  We weren't far.  However, I accidentally passed the park.  Here is a piece of advice when driving in the narrow street of the lovely Azores towns:  If you pass a turn, stop and back up if you can.  When I passed our turn for the thermal pools, I planned to just go to the next block or street and turn around.  Little did I know there was no place to turn around until I got to a dead end.  About 5-8 minutes later, we arrived at the park.

Poca Da Dona Beija (Little Lady Kisses) is a gorgeous little garden in Furnas.  Furnas itself is a quaint town we want to explore more someday.  There just wasn’t enough time on this trip.  For just 4 Euros, you get full access to the park.  There are bathrooms and places to change your clothes.  Also, you can shower after partaking in the thermal pools.  It is an idyllic setting.

Different pools have different temperatures and temps are noted for each pool.  I have one word of warning.  Beware of the clay colored mud or silt.  I’m not sure what it is.  A child started rubbing it on herself.  Before we knew it, my daughter covered her face like it was facial mud.  It will stain your clothes and skin if you leave it on too long.  The shirt I wore that day still has stains inside the sleeves.  It was a while before my daughter finally got it off her face.

After showering and purchasing something in the gift shop, we drove home.  Paul and his family were sitting and eating dinner at a table they have by an outdoor grill.  Paul immediately asked, “Duane, what happened to you?”  I was sure he referred to my sunburn and I was correct.  After putting things away, we drove to town and went to the other restaurant in Achadinha, Restaurante Poco Azul. (Small Blue Restaurant)

I felt like a bright red tomato as we sat at our table.  All of us were burnt to some degree.  On this night, I ordered beef with mushroom sauce and we each sampled each other’s food.  After arriving home and telling our hosts about our meals, Paul recommended ordering meals that have local sauces.  He said they know these sauces and put their all into them.  Other additions are added to menus to satisfy tourists.  I will do that from now on.

After dinner, we had a long conversation with a young lady from Switzerland.  We discussed various places visited in the Azores and world.  We appreciate seeing things from another point of view.  Then we went to the other side of Poco Azul (when you enter, the side to the left is the restaurant, to the right has coffee, sweets, desserts and spirits) and ordered coffee and pastries.  They were so good.  My wife and I were tired and walked home but our son and daughter wanted to stay a bit longer.  (Note:  Our children are all adults.)

Walking back, we noted the number of dogs owned in many homes.  I mentioned to my wife we would know when the kids were close because dogs would start barking.  I was right.  I sat on the balcony soaking the cool air into my burnt skin while rubbing lotion on my face and arms.  Sure enough, the sound of barking dogs came from homes closer and closer to us announced the arrival of our son and daughter.  Then I saw my kids walking under the streetlights as they turned the corner and started up our street.

Wrecking the Bike

Since I can’t run anymore, I started riding my bike more.  I’ve always liked bicycling and I was blessed a friend game me an old one of his. I realize people who do the Tour de France wouldn’t use this bike but it is a similar bike in my opinion.  I bought a pair of shoes that clips my feet to the pedals and I can push and pull at the same time to get maximum effort to each ride.  

For various reasons, I was a slacker with my exercise program in July but I’ve been more consistent this month.  Last week I even rode for an hour.  I went 15.76 miles.  I was very tired but quite happy I did it.  If felt good to exert myself again.

Yesterday, I planned to ride for 45 minutes.  It was a very hot and humid day but while I was pushing, I wasn’t killing myself.  Before I go any further, I should mention that I don’t ride on the main roads.  With the way most people drive their vehicles, I don’t feel safe around them. Therefore, as much as possible, I ride in the neighborhoods near me.  I sometimes go in and out of cul du sacs, which slows my overall speed, but I feel it is safer.  

One more thing to know is some of the streets were repaved.  When this was done, the road is a little higher than the edge of the gutter.  In some places, it may be as much as an inch and a half.  

I was a nearing the end of my ride and going up a small hill that is a little less than two miles from my house.  I geared down so I didn’t have to exert myself as I climbed the hill.  I took the bottle from it’s holder and shot some water into my mouth. Since I was going slower, the bike weaved to and fro and went into the gutter.  I put the water bottle back into its place and continued up and as I reached the crest. Then I turned to go back onto the asphalt.  Apparently, I didn’t have a good angle to exit the gutter, over the lip, and onto the road.  Instead, the front tire contacted the edge of the asphalt and continued straight. In a flash, I was thrown to the left and down into the road.  Have you heard how with events like this time slows down?  That isn’t the case for me.

With my foot still hooked onto the pedal, I couldn’t get it unhooked in time, Honestly, I’m not sure it would have mattered much. I was violently plunged to the ground.  I put out my left hand to break the fall.  It caught a section of asphat and skidded forward.  Then it seemed my whole left side slapped down a couple times and all forward momentum stopped.  

I looked at my left hand and a gash about two inches square was dripping with blood.  I looked down at the bike and both feet were free from the pedals.  I didn’t think anything was broken and started to get up.  I wondered if people in the houses there saw me crash but no one bothered to inquire about me if they did.  

I started to get up and felt a sharp pain in my left shoulder.  I wondered if I tore the rotator cuff.  After standing and getting the bike up, I tried raising my arm in a way I know someone with a torn rotator cuff could not.  (My dad tore his once.). It hurt to raise my arm but I could do it.  

I looked at other injuries I had.  I had abrasions on most of my left side.  There was also a deep gash just forward of my elbow.  Blood from my hand was starting to drip and I decided I better start pedaling home.  

I restrung the chain on the bike and climbed onto the seat.  I clipped one shoe into the pedal and started on my way, clipping in the other shoe.  I tried to determine the best way to hold the handlebar with my left hand so I didn’t get blood on it.  It didn’t seem to matter.  I pedaled with no hurry as I listened to what my body was saying.  Once I neared the house, I prayed both shoes came out easily before I came to a stop.  I didn’t want to fall to the ground again.  

Once in the house, I got something to drink and took off my shirt.  There were abrasions on my chest too and as the day wore on, it hurt to take deep breaths.  After showering, I went to an urgent care facility.  They cleaned my wounds and took some x-rays.  I have a hairline fracture in my humerus where it attaches to the shoulder.  From what the orthopedic doctor told me today, I have to take it easy with that shoulder because I can still make it worse.  

So there you have it for another episode of my life.  lol 

Sao Miguel: Day 1

My family and I recently completed a short stay in the Azores.  Previously, I didn’t know anyone who had visited these islands sometimes called the Hawaiian Islands for Europe.  In my opinion, they (at least the one island we visited called Sao Miguel) are a must see.  I know my whole family wants to return to see favorite spots and visit places we couldn’t fit into our agenda. 

Joao Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada is a small yet modern airport. I don’t typically sleep well on an airplane but my wife woke me to see the beautiful sunrise.  I know I was fast asleep but excitement filled me to see the first rays of color and light.  We arrived and deplaned to walk across the tarmac.  We quickly cleared customs and were in the public area of the airport.  There are several rental car options and a couple places to eat and get a drink.  Let me say now if you like coffee, the cappuccinos and lattes sold are top notch.  Every cup of coffee I and my family had was very good. 

One of the better shots of my view after waking on the flight to Sao Miguel.  You can see 3 of the Azores islands in this photo.  From farthest to closest they are Pico, Graciosa, and Sao Jorge.

We booked an Airbnb in the northeastern part of the island and our host, Paul, was picking us up.  After connecting to the free airport wifi, I saw a note detailing the vehicle to look for and Paul’s phone number.  Originally from Massachusetts, Paul has lived in the Azores since he was a child.  Driving us to his home, Paul was a wealth of information about the island and offered many tips of places to visit.

We previously arranged to rent a car from Paul which perfectly fit our family.  However, we took a quick nap and only planned to visit the surrounding area and little town of Achadinha.  After resting, we headed to a trail Paul suggested that was quite picturesque with its steep trails, amazing waterfalls, and chilly ponds. 

Like Hawaii, the Azores were made from volcanoes. Therefore, much of the island is made up of volcanic rocks.  Once at the coast, we were amazed to see the entire area was covered with lava boulders.  My son wanted to swim around the area but the waves were crashing in and we agreed it was dangerous.  Nonetheless, it was refreshing to feel the cool breeze as we watched to the beauty around us.

Unfortunately, what goes down must go back up.  Rather than retrace our steps to return to the house, which was a long hike, we decided to return via the road.  Though much easier to traverse than the trails, the road was very steep.  Still, we were met with wonderful views of the coast and made a few stops to rest and take photographs. 

There are many cows in this area.  Paul told us he himself owns more than 100 head of cattle.  Since my father grew up on a farm, I feel related to this type of life through him.  My family and I enjoyed the cows who watched us walk by.  Shortly, we were back in town and passing homes in the village.  Many people have dogs and/or cats and the dogs had to announce their awareness we were near.  A few cats walked out to get some appreciation. 

Then it was time to eat.  We decided to try one of the 2 restaurants in Achadinha.  Os Melos was our choice this night and we wanted to do an authentic Portuguese meal.  We started with bread and cheese with a bottle of wine.  We typically order different meals and everyone gets a sample of what the others eat.  Let me say, we loved every morsel.  The bread and cheese were so good we ordered some to go.  We planned to eat it for breakfast. 

The sun was rapidly falling as we walked home.  Several ladies were walking up the street ahead of us and some locals watched us as we passed by their homes.  Spanish is the second language in our house and we thought/hoped this would ease any communication difficulties.  Most of the younger generation in Portugal speak some English.  This was the case in Os Melos.  However, we found the Portuguese spoken here was difficult to understand.  Once back in our Airbnb, Paul and his lovely wife, Natérsia, confirmed for us Azores Portuguese is different.  They tend to cut off their words. 
We discussed our travels and meals that day.  The whole family took a special interest in us and we felt a bond with them.  We discussed our hike and meal and mentioned we ordered extra bread and cheese for breakfast.  It was then we learned we would have fresh bread and homemade cheese provided for us each morning.  We also had marmalade, fresh fruits, milk, and eggs. 

We had the whole upstairs area of the house.  It was complete with every appliance needed in the kitchen and a washer for our clothes.  The bathroom, or water closet, is small if more than one uses it at a time.  Soap, shampoo, and conditioner are provided.  Washcloths, large bath towels, and towels for the beach or hot springs are also available. 

Paul asked if we wanted to see another waterfall.  I think he gave us the name but I don’t remember.  Still, as soon as we saw it we knew it was one we wanted to see.  Since the park was closed, we could do little exploring but we were quite happy Paul took us to Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões and were surprised it was so close to his house.  Leaving the park, Paul gave us more information about the island as well as his personal history as he drove.  He proceeded further up the mountain in hopes we could see the setting sun.  Alas, the top of the mountain was covered with clouds and we could barely see the windmills atop the mountain.  Then we returned home.

We spent the remaining time before bed going through emails and doing Facebook and Instagram updates.  I sat on the balcony for a while watching the sunlight fade away and stars brighten.  I love to stargaze and relished these moments while feeling the cool breeze and listened to the crickets and occasional motor vehicle.  I looked around to take in all I could.  From the lights of the next town to the street lights of Achadinha, all seemed marvelous to me.
Finally, we settled down for some sleep. 

Day 2 coming soon. 
#azores #travel #travellocally #travellover

Empty Space

My hands reach out

To feel your face

But all I touch

Is empty space

© Aug 2019

DWP

Shorties: Number 70

Liyana’s words cracked like thunder and Toby reeled back aghast.  It was only a week ago Liyana was introduced to the class and took the desk next to Toby.  Everyone was 10 year old Toby’s friend and the teacher knew he would make Liyana feel welcome.  How right she was.  A bond was instantly formed between the lad and lass.  Toby injected the shy girl into his large group and they all enjoyed playing on the playground. 

It was always the same group walking home after school and Toby didn’t mind how many friends were there as long as he walked next to Liyana.  In such a short time she was his favorite.  Something about the way she looked at him, he believed she felt the same way. 

Now, he was devastated to hear Liyana say they could no longer be friends.  Toby stammered in protest, “But we’re friends.”  Liyana’s eyes betrayed the struggle in her soul as pain spread from Toby’s heart and radiated out with frosty tendrils.  How could this be?  Liyana opened her mouth to reply as Toby blurted, “What’d I do?”

“You’re a Christian and I am Muslim.  My parents say we can’t be friends.  You will want to convert me.”

Thoughts swirled in Toby’s mind but none of it was coherent.  What did she say?  What was that all about?  No convincing argument formed in Toby’s brain but the reality of losing his friend broke his heart.  Desperately, his mind raced for reasons.  Finally, he latched onto something he said the day before. 

Having lived her early years in Pakistan, Liyana’s English, though very good, had a thick accent.  A couple boys teased Liyana that day about the way she spoke.  Toby immediately defended Liyana.  When the boys were gone Toby spoke his heart and said, “I like your accent.  I think it is pretty.”  Liyana averted her eyes and blushed but her heart was warmed. 

That had to be it, but why?  Did she think Toby loved her?  Even if he did, is it wrong to love someone?  He didn’t want to marry her.  She was just his special friend.  Grasping at straws, Toby asked, “Is it because I like your accent?”

Liyana was stunned by the question but remembered her feelings in that moment.  Then, fighting back tears, she replied, “No, no not at all.”  She paused and exhaled, “I don’t know but my parents said you and I cannot be friends.  That is it.”

By this time, other members of their group who were playing on the playground started to gather around them.  They plainly saw the anguish on the faces of Toby and Liyana and asked what was wrong.  Toby couldn’t answer.  The pain of losing his friend muted him.  Liyana felt guilty and embarrassed.  Finally, she ran to the school building and into a bathroom stall.  She latched the door and buried her face in her hands.  She knew she wounded her friend and wondered if she would ever forgive herself.  How could he ever forgive her?

The rest of the day was awkward.  Toby was afraid to look at Liyana sitting at the desk next to her.  Liyana wished Toby would cast his gaze toward her.  She pleaded inwardly with him to give a hint that everything would be alright.  How could it be?  She knew she had to obey here parents.  The price of that obedience left her and her friend with broken hearts.

(Note:  In no way do I want to cast Islam in a bad light by telling this story.  My point is simply to highlight differences can cause problems in relationships. Sometimes we must be true to our beliefs even if it hurts someone we love.  But I believe love doesn’t die even if there is a rift of any kind,)   

August 3, 1998

On this day I started again to work at Delta.  Started again, you ask?  Yes, I left the company for a couple years when the headcount was being reduced.  For a variety of reasons, one that includes my longing to again be in the transportation industry, I applied for an open position and was rehired.  Here are a couple true things about my first day on the job:

1.       I was told to report on a particular day to start working.  Instead of coming on that day, I purposely showed up the day before and said it was the day I was told to begin. Why would I do that?  It was my understanding I wasn’t the only person hired.  When multiple people start working on the same day, they oldest person has highest seniority.  I wanted to have a leg up on anyone who might be older than me.  My hunch was right.  Also, I was sure I could show up and say it was the day I was told to start and no one would know.  I was right again.

2.       For training that day I was to work side by side with a seasoned agent.  Let me say this:  I had previously worked a little more than 6 years at Delta in several different positions.  Also, my preceding job was in a reservations call center.  I was well trained and, for the most part, still remembered all the entries.  All I needed to learn was how to check in a passenger and do the luggage tags. 

A man came up to me with a reservation for international travel he wanted to purchase.  At the time, international and domestic pricing were done by different systems and most people at the airports, unless it had international flights, didn’t know the international system.  I did know and remembered it.  I verified the fare, confirmed the itinerary, and entered the form of payment.  Then I looked at my mentor and asked, “How do I issue a ticket?”  He thought I was joking.  In reservations, we didn’t issue tickets.  The reservation was put on a queue and the tickets were mailed out. 

I later started training new agents working the ticket counter.  In just a couple years I took a new job that moved me and my family to Atlanta.  That’s another story.