An Excellent Journey: Susan's Fulbright in Panama (and Beyond): 07/19/14

Way before dawn, Anna Rachel and I climbed into Rogelio's car for the ride to Albrook Airport and a two day stay in Paradise, a.k.a., Yandup. Just as the sun was breaking the night and jumping into the sky, we boarded the trusty Twin Otter and jumped into the sky ourselves. We had a smooth flight, first landing at a landing strip that was new to me, Akwanusadup where 2 Mormon missionaries boarded the flight, and then on to Playon Chico where we were met by Kuna women and, of course, Blanco of the Yandup staff.

And so we embarked on the final leg of the journey to Paradise in the launch sent from Yandup to collect us and our things.

We settled in immediately. It was as if all the stresses and strains of modern life - things we aren't even aware of as we go about our day - melted away in the beauty of the place.

We ate breakfast and then set off for the beach. And it was gorgeous! Of course. Anna Rachel went snorkeling and I sat and read after walking around the island a bit to take some photos. I didn't get far because of the warning that there were lots of sand fleas in the grass, so I was content to read and relax while Anna Rachel had a blast in the water, well-protected by sun screen of course.

When we returned, after lunch, I spent some time doing what I love, beading.

And, as always, I was joined by my Kuna friends who put down their molas to join me in beading. I love the way this happens. They come over and soon, they are talking and joking and I mirrored their smiles. It felt like we were all sisters, enjoying each others company and doing something we all enjoy doing to give to others dear to us. I love that about beading!

Although the quarter finals of the World Cup were on, several guests insisted on going to the Community. This was somewhat futile because no one to speak of was on the streets because everyone in the Community was watching the game. And besides some of us (myself and Blanco included) would have rather watched the game and come to town the next day.

As a result, Blanco walked us through the village pretty quickly, and there wasn't a lot of chance to interact with people - except the kids. We took the things for the kids with us, and handed them out, but it was too bad that we didn't really have enough - I was thinking that Blanco might use the things (foam airplanes - like the one Anna Rachel is putting together in the photo above) and plastic flutes) a bit more strategically.

We rather quickly went back to the boat and motored back across the water to Yandup where everyone was watching.

Everyone was routing for Argentina - except the Dutch guests of course. There was much joy when Argentina won!

Our second day was similar to the first. In the morning, we went to a beach where Anna Rachel again snorkeled.

Then, in the afternoon, Anna Rachel joined a group who hiked up to the Community's cemetery. There, she learned that when someone dies, they are buried in a hammock in a large hole, that has a a shelf above the hammock with all of the person's possessions.