Austin's Trip for Ghanaian Souvenirs

I cannot believe Austin has been here for almost three full weeks and will be leaving us next weekend. Today's goal was to find him some good souvenirs to bring home for family and friends... and of course, himself.

Originally, we intended to go to the Arts Centre, which promised to be a successful if not completely traumatic experience based solely upon the one other trip I've made. That ship quickly sailed when I looked up the opening hours and realized it closed at 3pm and it was approximately 1:45pm when I made this discovery. We decided there were a few other easy options we could try.

We went to Global Mama's in Osu. Dan and I went once before back in November but I cannot recall if I've mentioned it. Essentially, it's a non-profit co-op assisting small women-owned businesses in Ghana. Thus, everything in the store is made locally by Ghanaians. I'm always fascinated when we go there because they have thought of everything to make/craft/sell. Many of the fabrics they use are batik which is basically a stamped pattern on fabric that they then use to make clothes, placemats, aprons, travel bags, headbands, etc. Suffice to say we had a good visit as we all bought some items.

One of my purchases: finally found a Ghana Christmas Tree ornament

This is the tag that is attached to every item. It explains what Global Mama's is and how it serves the community. Probably my favorite part is the back of each tag where they write the names of the women who made each piece that is for sale in the store. Makes me feel warm and fuzzy to support local craftswomen here in Ghana.

After we broke the bank at Global Mama's, we went casually browsing the stalls that line Oxford Street in Osu. Most are just a beach umbrella with a coat rack-type thing holding various wares. At one stand, Austin found an awesomely loud printed backpack that is made of kente cloth. At the second stand, the guys managed to cross another item off their list... Ghana soccer jerseys.

My dear husband, A for effort, but that's a volleyball.

After we spent our money, and made sure all necessary gifts for family and friends were accounted for, we walked to Honeysuckle for lunch. It's the British pub that Dan and I frequented when we first moved here. It was busier than expected because the rugby championship was on between New Zealand and South Africa. So we watched two-thirds of that match and had some food. Now we are back home with a nap likely occurring in the near future and then we will go out somewhere for dinner.

Here is some of Austin's haul:

Hope you are all having a nice weekend!