The fact that we left the United States during Inauguration week should not be taken as a political statement. Quite the contrary. We brought our Obama pins with us and plan to wear them on Tuesday. No, it was an unfortunate bit of scheduling. We had planned this trip to the Bahamas to celebrate our 20th anniversary, and this week seemed to fit our schedules best. So, with the threat of wintry weather and bone chilling temps at home we set out early this morning for warmer climes.
The jaunt from Greenville to Atlanta wasn’t too bad. However, when we got to Hartsville there was a 2.5 hour delay due to mechanical problems with our plane. I would rather fly on an airworthy plane, but the delay did put a crimp in things.
We soon discovered we were surrounded by nuts. It seemed that many of those around us both on the Atlanta-Freeport flight and the ground transport knew each other. I heard one ask another, “Are you into shelling?” I thought he was talking about conks, whelks, and similar shells. It turns out that our hotel would be hosting a convention of peanut and tree nut producers. Just great.
This is our first trip to the Bahamas, and two things have really impressed me. First, the fact that Grand Bahama Island is so flat – no mountains, hills, or anything. Secondly, everyone here is so incredibly friendly. Our driver gave us background on the island as we drove to the hotel. Everyone at the hotel has been super-nice. So far that part has been excellent.
I can’t say as much about the nuts. We were literally pushed out of our seats at dinner by a large group. They seemed offended that we would intrude upon their party, even though that’s where the host seated us. It was obvious that (A) the group was going to be hostile and (B) we would never get waited upon. We got up to leave, and the hostess spotted what was going on and found more suitable seats for us. In this case it wasn’t rude Americans, but rude Asians. I guess bad manners can happen with any culture, though I have yet to see it with the Bahamians.
I hope y’all have a great week! Be glad you’ll miss the snow coming tonight. I’d much rather be where you guys are.