Days 12-13/Weekend Experiences

Saturday was my day to go shopping at the Central Market with Nuru. We took the dalla-dalla down - a 15 seater van that carries, on average, 23 people - for 400 tsh (less than 40 cents Canadian). It is a popular mode of transportation. The driver fights his way through the traffic and his money-collector typically hangs out the window looking for the next customer. There are many dalla-dallas travelling up and down the road throughout the day, each competing for rides. Luckily I got squished against a window so I could get some fresh air - and see the passing scenery.
Once downtown, Nuru led me through the market and helped get some deals for me with her excellent bargaining skills. We then walked to the Chinese restaurant along the shore of Lake Victoria to enjoy an early dinner - and catch the sunset.
While we were eating we noticed that the park along the shore was littered with at least 8 different wedding parties. It was total chaos trying to maneuver down the street afterwards, with all their vans and buses lined up waiting for the photo shoots to end.
Below are a few pictures of the sunset, a typical tilapia fish and chips dinner, and a view of the big mall being built.

I told Nuru she could put me on a dalla-dalla to return to the lodge on my own, so she could head home from downtown. She, however, was very relieved to find Elizabeth (a teacher and fellow Rotarian) returning home on the same dalla-dalla as myself. Elizabeth ensured I got a seat (squished at the back of the bus again) and was able to get off at the correct stop. (Ironic wasn't it that I, a white person, was at the back of a bus of Africans? - Opposite to history in the US.) One man kept trying to get me to give him my money but I just told him that I wanted his money. I commented that the fact I was riding a dalla-dalla showed I didn't have money - or I'd be in a car. There was much joking around because I couldn't follow what was being said - but Elizabeth didn't look worried, so I was okay with it.
When we got off the bus, I lead the way to the Lodge - to prove to Elizabeth I knew my way.  Elizabeth and I then made plans for me to go to her house for dinner on Wednesday - so her children could meet me. It is a big deal to have a mzungu visit. Elizabeth promised to show me how to wear the traditional skirt.
On Sunday I went with Delphine to her church. I didn't think it would be proper to take pictures of the service and I completely forgot to take pictures of Delphine's adorable children - Lillian (2) and David(5). I was surprised to see a monkey cross the road as we drove out to her house. She said the monkeys raided the bananas she tried to grow and would often come by her house.
As for the service itself, I don't think I could do it justice by writing about my experiences there. (Ask me later, if you're interested.) It was Pentecostal - African-style and so completely different from any Roman Catholic or Protestant ceremony I had ever attended. There was singing, dancing, and role-playing. We arrived late, but were there for over 2 hours. I was called up to the front at the end to speak to the congregation (with Delphine translating) and then the pastor requested I meet with him afterwards in his office. All I can say is, I am almost 100% certain he and his congregation will by praying for me - and for Canada. Homosexual relationships are illegal in Tanzania and he was quite upset to hear that not only are they legal in Canada, but couples can marry in churches and we even have large parades to celebrate being gay. I told the pastor it didn't bother me who a person loves, and it was not up to me to judge them. I don't think he was happy with that response. He was hoping I would tell him it was all a horrible rumour and there was no truth to our acceptance of the gay culture at all.  Delphine was convinced her pastor had prophesized about my coming to their church, thereby solidifying her beliefs even more. I remain sceptical. Christianity in Tanzania is mixed with traditional beliefs - such as demon spirits, etc. They are very devout.
I was invited by Delphine to then enjoy a fish dinner - similar to the one above. I have to admit - I prefer tilapia as a filet, without the eyes and mouth.