Calm Before the Storm --Sunday May 20, 2012

Sorry, but there will be no pictures tonight; we are lucky enough to have internet, let alone the ability to upload pictures. I will admit the days are running together because of how much we have been doing, but as for Sunday... We we took advantage of being allowed to sleep in, and we truly needed, and enjoyed it! After a breakfast of warm bread and tea, which even though we have eaten everyday, not one of is tired of it, each project team broke into their groups to begin working. The health care team cleaned out the health center and began stocking it with the multitude of supplies that were generously donated, the children's literacy team was escorted by the village children to the classrooms, and began to workout the logistics for the week.  The adult literacy team met Awa, one of the Skills Center teachers, and figured out our action plan for the week. After another delicous lunch we went to the beach! Here in Barra they have one of the most beautiful beaches that I have ever been to (something to keep in mind for a future vacation spot --hint, hint). Some of us stayed in the water and enjoyed the waves, others played soccer, and others raced the children along the coastline. After the beach some of us went back to Sajuka while myself, VaNessa, Dr. J, Tenzin, and Sarah decided we wanted to see more of Barra. Along with our friend Alpha we saw the slave compound that Kunta Kinteh was transported from to Goree Island, and then to America. Sarah decided that she must climb a baoba tree, which she fully enjoyed while we stayed planted on the ground, and watched. Afterwards, we enjoyed a much calmer, friendlier, and less busy market than the one that was in Dakar. I decided to bargain for some shoes, and got a pretty good deal.  VaNessa found some inexpensive jelly shoes, a bag to replace one that broke, and Sarah and Dr. J loved the fresh coconut they purchased. One thing that has been laughable during our trip is all the proposals that each of us have received from the local men. Dr. J has been the beneficiary of receiving dowries for some of us. It is flattering, but a little too much at times. Last night, after dinner we relaxed, danced with the children in the school yard, and prepared for the exciting first day of school. Sorry, for the short entry, but we do need to get some sleep so that we are refreshed for our workday...