Asalaam maalekum!

This is going to be my last blog entry. 4 months already... it's kind of hard to believe.

I've finally finished with all of my final exams and papers and the reality that I'm leaving in two days is starting to really sink in.

Lots of you have been asking me how I'm feeling about leaving/ coming home - well that's exactly it...

I'm leaving sama waa ker (my family), some amazing friends, and just so much more that I can't even begin to explain. There's a lot about Senegal that I am going to miss.

At the same time I'm coming home and I'm so excited about seeing all of you again.


I've been doing a lot of self reflecting lately and am beginning to realize that I've changed since being here (in big and small ways).

Some things I've learned about myself from these past 4 months in Senegal (these are in no particular order):

I like tomatoes now.

I no longer find it strange to eat a fish that still looks like a fish (IE head and teeth still in tact).

I've learned that it's okay to ask a lot of questions.

I'm becoming more outgoing.

I'm much more conscious about how much electricity/water I'm using and am trying to be more environmental friendly.

I have a newfound love of reggae and r&b music (not to mention mbalax!).

I've learned to be 'maangi fii rekk' and to stop worrying about little things that you can't change.

I've learned that I have good friends (and family) who love and care for me and a looking out for me.

I've realized how much I love Senegal and I hope to come back again someday - Inchallah.


If anyone ever has any specific questions or just wants to talk to me about my trip PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me. I'd love to talk to you :-)


Jamm ak jamm,
Kelly

Asalaam maalekum!

Where on earth has the time gone? It's so hard to believe that it's May already.

I've been really busy with school lately (lots of final exams and papers to write).

I've been trying to take advantage of the little time I have left to spend time with my host family and go out and see/do things downtown.

Yesterday was my last CIEE class ever. After class I went with some friends to go visit Ryan in the hospital.

Yes, hospital. Ryan broke his leg during the weekend - but he's improving very quickly and is in very good care. His mom came to be with him and they are headed home this weekend. For those of you who pray - I'm sure that your prayers for a quick recovery would be appreciated.


Today some friends of mine came over and we had a dance party. My dad DJ-ed for us (he has an enormous cd collection - as well as a really nice sound system). It was a lot of fun.

That's about it for now. Not a whole lot planned for this weekend besides preparing for finals.

Jamm ak jamm,
Kelly