From time to time I call my agent to arrange public relations events with some of the lesser known babies in Dakar. I've come to rely on my agent and sometimes call her several times a day. It seems that every time I pass a phone I just have to pick it up and give her a quick "hello," or as we say in Senegal, "awa." She is a good agent and I appreciate the fact that I am always able to reach her, whether I am calling on a traditional land line or the air conditioner remote control.
Recently, I've been working birthday parties. I am often asked to put in an appearance so I can be photographed with the birthday baby, demonstrate how much cake I can eat, and show off some of my more risque dance moves. I am also available for Bar Mitzvahs, weddings and Iftars. "Iftar" is a dinner ceremony held during the holy month of Ramadan after Muslims have been fasting all day. The dinner is preceded by prayers and appetizers of dates, bread and coffee. It is a solemn, deeply religious event and people dress their best. Why they thought an amusement park would be an appropriate venue for this continues to baffle me.
As you can see from the photos below, I have come to rely on the council of two colleagues, Lefty and Righty. Unlike those I meet at my public events, they seem little interested in photo ops or the glamour of being associated with me. The three of us are beginning to develop a good relationship and we go almost everywhere together. Like a devil and angel sitting on my shoulder, they are my conscience, advising me on all manner of decisions. Lefty tries to steer me toward the light, urging sweetness, patience, and fewer tantrums while Righty fosters darker urges such as playing with the remote controls, furiously wiggling out of my high chair, and voting Republican.
Of course there are other minor characters in the drama that is my life. Ralphie, Jackie Jr., Adriana, and Tony B. often join me for tea. They are cute and lovable and they receive many kisses from me. But ultimately, like the Sopranos victims they were named for, they are unanimated and expendable.
For true friendship, there is no one like Gazelle. She is always looking out for me, even when she is accidentally knocking me down. She licks my face, follows me around and is a permanent fixture underneath my seat at the table because she knows I'll drop the most food. Whenever I see her or another of her ilk, I yell out as much of her name as I can pronounce -- "Ga-ga!" She is warm, loving, and faithful. My puppy wants nothing more from me than hugs and sometimes I get the feeling she doesn't even realize how big I am in the Baby Adventure business. Those things just don't matter to her and for that, she is my best friend in the world.
Until next time, peace to all.
Omi, Baby Adventure Traveler
