Do Cows Snore?

There are two cows tied up just across the fence and in the night I have heard snoring. It is a deep sound and not unpleasant. Perhaps the old Christmas song should say "the cattle were snoring, the baby awakes . . . "

We walked down the road to Tengeru market on Saturday. It is an amazing and very busy place. There are many people selling wares outside the market area as you approach and hundreds more on the inside. The market is sectioned into different areas and we followed Joy as she weaved in and around the stalls, stands and people. Vendors cheerfully called to us to have a look at their stuff, Mzungu (white person)! There were tables full of plastic bowls, wash basins, pitchers and other kitchen items. Piles of towels, sheets and curtains at one table push against a pile of blankets at another table. 99.9% of these things are used. It isn't unusual to see tags on clothing from Value Village. Have you ever wondered what happens to things you donate? Bundles are sold to vendors who, in turn, sell them in the markets. Some things are in good shape and just need washing. Bargaining is necessary and expected.

The local produce is wonderful. Tomatoes, green beans, bananas, avocados, eggplant, peas, onions, leeks, garlic, mangoes, and more. If you buy too much to carry easily there are men are waiting to be hired to load your purchases onto a cart and follow you home.

Market day is a feast for the senses. It is colourful, pushy, and noisy. The smell of omelets and fried potatoes waft through the air. It is hot and sunny. Sparks flew as a man sharpened machetes on his bicycle-sharpener. He had rigged it up so that he sat backwards and peddled, causing the rear wheel to turn a sharpening stone. In a small shed a movie was playing at full volume to a sold-out crowd. The market continues until long after dark.