You know you’re in Tanzania when…
- You find yourself adding heaping spoonfuls of sugar into your coffee and chai.
- Your dog is named “Poppy” in attempt to say puppy.
- You learn to look left before right when crossing the road, and you learn that pedestrians do not have the right away.
- Paved roads are a luxury.
- A five minute walk may take up to half an hour due to the constant greeting of those around you.
- You’ve tasted the sweetest oranges, seen the biggest avocadoes, and eaten the best cassava you’ve ever had!
- Seeing four shooting stars in one sitting is normal.
- Your feet are constantly dirty, yet you are constantly showering and staying clean!
- When bed time is 9:00 sharp; 10 is staying up late.
- You can look outside your window and see herds of goats, cows, and chicken walking around
- You may have to walk 2 hours just to see a friend (or could ride in the back of a cattle cart)
- You talk about poop in normal conversation and cheer when someone is solid.
- Clothes are sold from a tree.
- You find yourself constantly running late (aka Tanzanian time)
- You appreciate the washing machine at home and wonder why you ever complained about doing laundry before.
- You are overwhelmed by the huge selection of cangas (fabric)
- Bartering become a routine and almost fun.
- All the children in the neighborhood play together, and any house is a safe haven with a welcoming mama.
- You know your neighbors and can play card games until late into the night by the lighting of a kerosene lamp.
- When you add –ie sound to any word you don’t know (card would be cardie)
- You learn to appreciate the simple things in life and to see the beauty around you constantly.
- You learn to take less than you give, and find the true meaning of selflessness.
- You can see true community.
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