Day 31: I was almost an illegal.
After packing all night long after Las Tinijas (and an AWESOME folkloric dance presentation), I dressed Panamanian style (business casual) to leave the country. Also, the best boyfriend ever greeted me Panamanian style; he was so cute! :)I ALMOST had to stay in Panama. I got into a heated discussion with one of the carry-on baggage checkers, because my makeup was over 3.3 oz. Now, I know how big they are, and I know what the limit is for liquids on carry ons, but I was allowed into Panama with makeup in a 3.3 oz container, 3.5 oz container, 4.25 oz container, AND a lighter. Yes, I said it, I brought all of these things with me not only through Louisville International (SDF), but also through Houston International (IAH) on the way to Panama. As a matter of fact, I have been through SDF at least half a dozen times with that lighter, if not more. (I did get the lighter taken away at the gate check.)
Anyway, I told the guy either I was staying in Panama with my makeup, going underneath the plane to put it into my checked bags, or it was going with me. I promise I was being calm, and he was as well, so he called over the head of the gates to ask what to do. Pretty much the head said I could bring them with me on the plane AS LONG AS when I went through Customs in IAH that I put the makeup into my checked bags. Luckiest freaking day of my life!
Also, I have been asked numerous times in the past few days if I am a Panamanian, or a native Spanish speaker, or have relatives who live in a Spanish speaking country. My Spanish skills rule. :) Speaking of Spanish skills, I wonder when our grades are going to be posted...
James and John were at the airport to pick me up, and then John went to get some growlers of beer and James took me out to dinner at El Mundo for some fine Mexican cuisine. After we got back to Palatka, I gave some of my favorite past, present, and honorary Palatkastanis some Panamanian gifts. Then we watched Raiders of the Lost Ark, and it was sweet.
I am so excited to be back in the states! :)
Labels: buddy system, class, panama
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