To market, to market

Sunday, June 21, 2009 - Ghana Adventure Day 16
More of today's photos in slideshow section 2 - click HERE to view.
(back-dated post completed December 30)

This morning, Lydia went swimming, but Akos wouldn't - her poor head was hurting too much. She refused to go to the market with us, too - just wanted to play on my iPhone. But, we were going, so she didn't have a choice in the matter. The market was a crazy place. The vendors were so pushy, but one in the back, a friend of Uncle P's, was nice. He stood back and let us browse in peace, and answered price questions when asked. We bought nearly everything on our list from him, as thanks for giving us the time and space to make our own decisions. His prices were very fair, as well. He was grateful and gave me a lovely black and white necklace as a thank-you gift.

During the market adventure, I learned that an elephant with its trunk pointed upward represents good luck. We found out that the meaning of a popular Adinkra symbol (which is on a batik stamper I bought, as well as on bracelets for the girls) means "except God." We found some kente bookmarks, a talking drum, a mancala game, a "good luck" elephant for Don, and some traditional jewelry and dresses for each of the three girls.

After that, we went to the much more modern Koala Market for some snacks for the room. I hoped to buy some paper and crayons or a board game for the girls, but was astounded to see that a 64-box of Crayola crayons is about $35, and board games are about $80-100!