Passport Fun!

Coming to Africa, we knew that Eddy would need to renew his soon-to-be expired Brazilian passport. We made the decision to wait until here, our thinking being that the embassy here would be more adept and perhaps faster on issuing a new one than an embassy in the states... as there are only about 45 Brazilians in this country. Well, unfortunately, we were very wrong. The passport system has changed and the new system isn't working correctly. Surprise! After multiple calls, visits and "sit-ins", of sorts, there is "nothing more we can do". What?! Correct us if we are wrong, but isn't that one of the whole points of having an embassy in a foreign country?

So, Eddy's business visa process is on hold, as the government here will not re-issue his visa in an expiring passport. Eddy's passport apparently "cannot be renewed"- as the system, in place since the beginning of April, is not functioning. Eddy cannot travel anywhere in or out of the country until said passport is renewed. Hmmmm... quite the predicament!

Our "plans", held extremely loosely at this point, were to go out East for some planning this next week, after some friends from Canada arrive. It looks like I, Jess, will be going without Eddy and Benjamin. We were also "planning" on flying out of the sand box on June 2nd. And ultimately, I will have to leave the country as my visa has changed and I must leave by June 10. Leaving Eddy and Benjamin here? Hmmmm... interesting...

As I write this, Eddy is participating in another "sit-in" at the Embassy, having done a bit more research on the role of Embassies and emergency procedures for passports. It "seems" like he's making an impact as the ambassador said he "never wants to see him again". Issue him a passport, Mr. Ambassador, and you won't!

Please Pray!

Photos: Benjamin!... And buddy, Hudson... Dad and Ben taking our new wheels for a spin (seat belt laws don't really exist here)... At the pool with wonderful Khawaja friends...