ouaga people, ouaga food

I’m at La Palmaraie in Ouaga. This is my fourth time here so it feels familiar. It’s quiet, the rooms are clean, and the food is good at the restaurant. This morning I had what I call a Polish breakfast consisting of a roll, fatty ham, salami, and cheese, followed by a slice of coffee cake. Papaya and mango.

I got a lot of what I call, “Oh by the way…” kind of patients. They come in for a medication refill, chat for about 20 minutes, and then on the way out, say, “Oh by the way! I started peeing green this morning. I just thought it might be because I drank Creme D’ Menthe last night. Do you think I should worry about it?” Don’t you think you should have mentioned it before you talked about your godchild in Alaska on a sledding scholarship?!

At a party at the Ambassador’s with Burkinabé food and live music, I was late getting into the food line. They served a moist green and gray something served with oil and salt on the side. I’m told it’s much better with the hot sauce.

Our nurse here graciously invited me over to her hotel, Richard, for several lovely meals and good company. I’m in love with one of her ten dogs, Michou – a gentle Salouki. There’s also a really cool store called here called Kalala. They sell locally made art, jewelry, furniture, and sculptures. They had a reception with fabulous food and alcohol. It reminded me of Plaza Design in Arcata, California, African style.