Meet me in St. Louis...

I couldn't help but hum the old song from the musical as we made our four-hour journey from Dakar to St. Louis today. As we moved from the big city to rural areas, and watched the trees and ground turn from coastal to desert surroundings... I reflected on my journey this far. How different everything is... yet the same. Some things are truly HUMAN and no language, culture, or other difference is a divide. A smile is a smile. There have many instances here where I have broken into laughter because although I didn't understand the words, I understood the moment. I have connected with others in simple HUMAN moments here and it has truly been beautiful.

We saw cows in the street, a camel under a tree (no picture unfortunately), and so many fruit and sandal shops. We had SO much luggage full of teaching items and donations for our school that we had to help walk/pull our luggage from the other car to our hotel. We met our host face to face today and I am absolutely delighted and honored to be working with her. In Senegal, women make up about ten percent of teachers- so they have to be that much better and sharper to make a name for themselves. She is truly inspiring. Her husband is also hosting Fulbright teachers,  and we will be partnering with them on several activities. Today was the BEST DAY.. and tomorrow we get to meet the kids!

Flower

Cows walking into traffic

Fatoumata and my St. Louis team!