Well... Africa is alive, and so are we, Dana and I. It has been about a week and one half since we have been here and we have moved aroud a lot. Right now, we are in Mauritania's capital and largest city, Nouackshott. It's got 400 000 people and it's mostly comprised of partially built buildings, sand and plastic bags. But the people are wonderful. We have been brought in by our friend/guide, Diop to his sister's home by the sea. Later we are going for a hamam which will be much appreciated after such a long time without a bath, other than is the sand dunes of this great and peaceful nation.

I go back and forth from, "I'm so lucky to be here" to "Man! it's dirty and poor." But there are some certainties I would like to share with you:

1. People who have little but give much are the richest in the world.
2. We who live in North America are SO LUCKY and we should never forget it. I never will.
3. A place can be both poor and safe at the same time.
4. Sand is as good at cleaning as water.
5. Water is the most precious resourse on the planet.
6. A smile and a song (and perhaps bic pens) are the most important things to bring with you wherever you go.
7. Fruit is delicious.
8. There are many kinds of toilets.

It's hamam time now (and prayer time for the muslims, calls the imam from the minerets).

May peace be upon us all. Please send emails, news and crazy ideas. I will read them all.