time of our lives

Had Camille's slumber party on Friday, kind of hard to have a party when you don't have any of your stuff. We are camping in our own house, using the Embassy welcome kit, with the sheets made of sandpaper. We fly on Tuesday at midnight. Camille has already arranged playdates on the plane, we are flying to France with about half her class.

I will miss shaking hands one hundred times a day. I love the soft handshake of Niger. If someone is too far away to shake your hand, the shake their own hands over their head. If they are on their moto, they clasp an invisible hand overhead, the black power salute. Try it, it's fun. If they are feelin' it, the men touch their chest when they shake hands, . Peter does this and it cracks me up, it's almost as good as everyone calling him "Patron." Some people snap fingers after shaking hands, or bump their fists together in a super cool secret handshake, but I am not cool enough for someone to do this with me. I make the kids do it with me though.

Comments

6 responses to “time of our lives”

  1. Mom Avatar
    Mom

    I cry for you Argintina or is it
    Africa? You are going to miss Africa. I can tell already.

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  2. Mom Avatar
    Mom

    Looks like Camille will be busy on her flight home. Will the Kids miss Africa as much as you will?

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  3. carolee Avatar
    carolee

    It sounds like we Americans have misinterpreted the welcoming, friendly African handshake for an intimidating black power salute. Or am I mistaken? Has it evolved into something else in the U.S.? Or do we just not understand its roots and true meaning? It sounds like a warm and beautiful custom that you will remember forever! You are going to have such colorful memories of Niger! I envy you! Safe travels!

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  4. MoscowMom Avatar

    Wow, I can’t believe you leave in a few hours. I hope all goes well for you and that you won’t be too heartbroken!

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  5. MamaLana Avatar
    MamaLana

    So happy to see you have ‘the internets’ back briefly. Happy landings and a great home leave!

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  6. S. Avatar
    S.

    I’ve enjoyed living vicariously through you and your family’s journey. Thank you sO much for sharing the experience.
    I can hardly wait to see for what Russia has in store for you/us.
    Safe safe travels!
    S.

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