Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Here is the post from London April 6

Well, in typical Gina Orr fashion I missed my flight to Entebbe, the airport in Uganda. Don't even ask me how I did it. Just keep in mind that I was in the airport for over three hours and still managed to somehow miss the flight. A word for the traveller like me, reset your watch as soon as you arrive at your destination and don't count on things being like they have always been before. HA The five boxes I am carrying arrived safely in London. Because I missed the flight they security system wanted me take the boxes OUT of the airport. The next flight to Entebbe was two days later! I was able to rebook my flight, re-que the bags and with the help of some very friendly BA staff find a reasonable hotel. The hotel was a bed in a box. Weirdest thing ever. Just room for a bed. No window, no sheets, but it did have a private bathroom. It cost me $30 to take the taxi there and $35 to spend the night! But what is the word for missions...flexibility. And despite the good advice of Dave Ramsay, I would say always carry a VISA, for emergencies. By the time I rebooked my flight it was almost midnight and I was considered a "risk" . I had to be escorted by a member of security at all times. I must look threatening. But the people at the desk were so very nice. I told them that if they ever got to Phoenix, I would take them to dinner for Mexican Food. To my surprise I found that they both HAD been to Arizona. So I gave them a business card from the church and told them to call me if they came back.
Wednesday in London I walked around all day. I saw the sights and spent 3 hours in the National Art Museum.
It is now Thursday and I had to leave my hotel at 11:00 and my flight is at eight. I came very early to insure that my boxes were on their way as well. All seems to be in order and I have explored the terminal and found that I could shop at Prada, Gucci, and Coach. On the other hand I think I will have an Americano at Starbucks. I am enjoying watching the people. What a diverse group. It is wonderful! My phone doesn't seem to want to call anyone, just as well since it is so expensive. But texting is only 35 cents. You can text me at 602-326-5025. I have a 22 hour layover on the way back that includes an overnight. I am considering staying at a hostel here, the chairs here are quite uncomfortable for sleep. And my pillow did not make it through security Tuesday night. Keep praying that the trip will still be a blessing and encouragement to Abby despite all of the problems. Take care everyone

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