Pictures

Taking pictures in Ghana is not easy.  There are so many pictures I want to take....and yet still have been unable to.  The Ghanaian people are not fond of you taking their picture for many different reasons:

1. Some still believe that taking a picture of them will steal a part of their spirit

2. They want you to ask permission first, out of respect (can't fault them on this)

3. They want you to pay them

4. They don't want you making fun of them on a website.

So I've been very cautious about taking pictures around here.  I have asked permission several times, and was rejected.  Had I given them 1 cedi (equal to about $0.50), they probably would've allowed it.  Here are a few pictures I either snuck, or received permission to take:

This is one of the plantain trees in our yard.  Through-out the compound, there are tons!

Makola Market.  This is where the Ghanaians go to shop.  This was really early in the day so there weren't as many people.  When we were walking to this area, two little girls started chanting "Obruni, Obruni", which means "white person".  They were adorable.

I asked permission to take a picture and I'm grateful they said yes.  These girls are about 13 years old or so and carry all sorts of things on their heads.  It is quite a talent and I can only imagine the headaches they might get.

This is the middle of the walkway in the market.  Everyone was throwing the trash here to be collected and then burned later.  You avoid the puddles at all costs.

This lady is selling bags of water on her head.  No idea how much it weighs, but you know it's a lot.  We've been advised not to drink this water.  It was tested recently and 80% of the bags tested had some sort of feces in it. 

This is wicker corner.  You can watch them make the furniture or you can place a special order.  It's amazing what they can do and how fast they do it! 

Ghana has been a transition for us, but we are adjusting well.  I think it's going to be a great 2 years!!