Craving Consumerism

One of the reasons we decided to come to Khartoum was to get away from needing so much stuff. However, there’s something to be said for some creature comforts—like cheddar cheese, bacon or even McDonalds (where you can get both)!

(Really there aren’t many shops per se except for the grocery store and the restaurants I can count on one hand. As a result, we end up spending most of our money on food and taxis.)

We knew our “New York Detox” would be difficult, but nothing prepared us for our return back to the world of purchasing power. We landed a day ahead of Rachel’s family into Jordan’s capital, Amman. Our first stop was McDonalds (I know), followed by a full day of shopping at Mecca Mall. We were awed by the sheer amount of items for sale. We walked around in a daze, realizing that Sudan had made us appreciate what we have and what we truly need. (But…a sale for new earrings didn’t stop me from buying!) We giggled eagerly at cheap prices and gourmet imported goods.

We ended the day in the ritzy area of town at a real coffee shop where coffee is only $3, not $9. Our dinner choice—Noodasia, Asian-fusion. Needless to say, there’s nothing like this in Sudan. We gobbled up spring rolls, sushi and Thai Cashew Chicken Nut! Yummy!

Once Rachel’s family arrived, they brought all kinds of stocking stuffers to our delight…Reese’s Peanut-Butter Cups, chocolate chips, spices and other unmentionable treats!

Our final day was much like the first…repeating a trip to Noodasia and the mall. We bought our fill of cheese, a backpack full for only $35! And I finally found cornmeal!

Yes, as we unpack we realize that these are not essentials to living, but they sure do help ease your quality of living! We appreciate all that we have and are ever so thankful for those that have been taking care of our cravings!