Batié here we come

Now that we’ve had enough of the bank guy, we move across the street to a nice restaurant, and had some pamplemousse. The trip started to pick up a little, because this spot was really clean and nice. It was good to be in a relaxing environment, especially after just going through the stress with some “jerk off” at the bank.

We then go to the gare for Batie. This was actually not problematic. It was just that we ended up in a car that was going in the wrong direction. Luckily, it was recognized before we pulled out of the gas station. The chauffeur and chargeurs were not happy with us at all. But what did we care, oh well, we needed to find a car going in our direction.

Luckily there was one chargeur who went with us until we found a car going in our direction. So what four people needed to be in the backseat and I couldn’t fit in. Only one leg would fit in the car, so the two gentleman who jumped in the front seats that Akilah and I were going to take began complaining that they were trying to tell me to get in the front because of my legs. “Yeah right, that’s why you rushed to jump in right?” So at her request, one got in the back so I could get into the front. Ah, leg room.

The trip was not too long, and we were stopped once without incident. The only issue I had was how there were a few times the driver was going around a vehicle in front of us while there was an oncoming vehicle not too far away. Looking out the side window was never so interesting, but this was really not too good either because the passenger side door didn’t appear to close tightly.

When I first got into the front seat, the door slipped open, and the chargeur had to shut it again. I was afraid it would pop open on the road. That would not have been a pretty sight. Especially considering how fast the driver was going; and these were winding roads.

Finally, arriving in Batié. The town is not too large, it mostly goes along the road. This is a pretty small time, in fact. I think Andy Griffith‘s Mayberry was larger than this place. We arrived on market day. We were actually reminded of this while getting out of the car. Akilah was telling me not to look behind the car, as there was a cow’s head sitting on the side of the road.

What is it with Cameroonians and displaying the head of a recently butchered cow? Is it there to entice buyer’s or for show? Why ever they choose to put it there, I would really rather not see it.

The walk from the market area to Becky’s house is not far, and I’m actually loving that we’re here. From what I’ve seen thus far, it’s quaint and relaxing. Becky’s house is really nice. Most people would probably stay at a place like this when they go camping or something similar.

While I sat and reflected on the day, Becky and Akilah made dinner; tabouleh (using couscous) and babaganoosh. Of course, I had my mouth set for hot couscous. I was probably kind of inconsiderate in pouting about eating it cold. I’m not the one going through the troubles of making the dishes. What is it with Americans and our insistence to have it our way, any time we want?

SIDEBAR: one thing to remember in Cameroon, everyone helps. Whenever there’s something going on, each person tries to help out some small bit. Also, don’t expect to be able to turn down someone’s hospitality. When you’re offered food or drink, it’s best to take it. I’ve not experienced it yet, but they keep reminding me so I don’t offend anyone in their home. So what you’re not hungry or thirsty, does that matter?

This trip is really turning into a National Geographic special up close. I wouldn’t trade this experience in for nothing in the world. It’s worth every minute of it. Out of all my reflections, I remembered that I’ve not said much about the land. Let’s just say that the scenery is very majestic. If we had access to a car, I would really have an opportunity to enjoy all that it has to offer. You kind of overlook things and take them for granted when you’re just shuffling past them in one bush taxi or another. If you ever make it here, take time and smell the flowers.