Journey of Friendship and Freedom:

Let’s rewind six years to my first trip to Uganda, a land of breathtaking beauty and unexpected friendships. Enter Charles, the reservations manager at the Marriott, who treated us like royalty from the moment we checked in. I mean, he rolled out the red carpet and kept us safe as if we were on some top-secret mission! Charles transformed from our hotel guru into a friend—more like family.

Fast forward a couple of years; fueled by spontaneity (and maybe a couple of colossal Nile beers), I threw out the ridiculous idea that if he ever wanted to make a go of it in America, my home was open to him. Who wouldn’t want to live with a middle-aged woman, two dogs, and a cat? Spoiler alert: Charles was game. Six months later, I received the news that would change everything—he got his visa and was ready to see what America was all about. My heart raced like it does when I open my American Express statement. Could I really host an international guest? I’ve done some crazy stuff in my days—jumped out of an airplane, raised nine puppies in my very small living room, and I was even pro se in an assault with a deadly weapon trial (that’s a whole different post). In October 2024, Charles made the leap to America, and suddenly, my life had a new roommate. I will never forget his second day here; I took him to Costco, where we stumbled upon the motherlode of samples—23, to be exact. Charles was mesmerized! He quickly became the star of our community, especially with the “golden girls” who couldn’t get enough of him. We walked the dogs while hearing “Hiiiii Charles” on repeat. I became invisible. Within a week, he knew everyone—and their dog’s name!

The past ten months have flown by. Charles snagged a job at another Marriott property and thrived. But now, as he gears up to start a new chapter working downtown, I find myself with mixed emotions. Sure, I’m sad to see him go, but if I’m being honest, I’m really looking forward to the sweet freedom of roaming my house bra-less. Freedom, baby! Charles didn’t just come to America as a guest; he became a cherished friend. His journey is a reminder that friendships know no borders and that one simple act of kindness can lead to life-changing experiences for everyone involved. So here’s to Charles—the friend who became family, the guest who crashed into my everyday life, and the brave soul chasing his dreams. As he embarks on this new adventure, I’ll be cheering him on from the sidelines, ready to support him while also relishing the sweet, sweet taste of my newfound bra-less freedom.

Cheers to you, Charles!