On my own

It was nice to wake up early and sober for a change :-). Today was one of those "first time days" when I went out on my own for the whole day. I seldom travel alone and even less go out in a big city without a companion. However since this trip has so far been one first-time experience after another, I decided to add one more to the list.

As with every other day in this country, my to do list started off with a search for cash. Although resigned to the fact that it isn't happening, I still kept my eye out for an ATM with US dollars.

With bus routes and city map in hand I set out. The busses are roomy, modern and clean. My new look drew a lot of stares.

I got off in Independence Square where I sketched a statue of the country's patriarch. I toured the photography museum where they had a marvelous exhibit of photos of Uzbek women, and walked around the government house with its storks on the dome.

A local family whose 11 yr old spoke English stopped me for a chat and invited me to join them for lunch. That was really special!

Next I visited parliament park with its massive fountains and a memorial to Mary and Jesus. I thought that odd being Muslim country and right in front of the parliament house.

At the history museum a women asked if I would tour the faculty with them and speak to her kids in English. That was do much fun and the kids were really cute and SO-O-O respectful.

I was so jived by now that I walked the three miles back to the hotel and settled in for the day. Today marks one-third of my trip. Can't believe I have two and a half months to go. Yippee!