It was easier to write about the sequence for leaving than actually doing it. Getting rid of the final items was a breeze thanks to Greg and Jim (once again many thanks!). Taking care of the final details was a little more difficult. Packing proved a challenge as we had kept too many things to take with us on the plane (more on that in a minute). We ended up finally getting to the 4 PM gathering at Ken's at 5 PM, grungy and sweaty. It was great to see Alyssa as well as the rest of the gang there. We were happy to get to Phil's and to bed that night (Monday). Tuesday was relaxing except for me (Harold) needing to go to the bank and exchange some funds. Language skills, etc. helped both there and at the airport the next day.
The gentleman helping with the exchange has a grandfather in this region of France and had visited two weeks ago, including the town of Creil. Once that was established he helped me get the very best exchange rate. Then the next day at the airport we found out we had two overweight pieces at $200 each. The lady was helpful but became doubly so when I found out she had spent years in Brazil and talked to her in Portuguese. With her help we ended up paying $65. We are now in the throes of exchanging more money, finding a place to live, buying a car and furniture, etc. My official activities will start on Monday attending a meeting of evangelical leaders in the area surrounding Creil.
