Hello everyone!! I wanted to let you know that I have made it to The Gambia. The country is amazing. We were on the same plane from Brussels as the under 17 Gambian national football (soccer) team. They were on their way back. I believe they won the under 17 World Cup...pretty impressive. The streets were lined with crowds of people for miles. Although they were cheering for the football players, I felt like a celebrity as well. The kids were trying to touch us through the van windows, blowing us kisses, and trying to talk to us. It was quite flattering. Right now I am about 10 miles from Banjul, the capital. As for now, I have running water and power at some throughout the day. That will all change very shortly...

We have gone on a couple field trips. We went to a reptile farm. I put a royal python around my neck. We also we to a crocodile pond. I actually pet a crocodile!! His name was Charlie, the friendly croc. On Friday, I head to east to my training village, where I will be for the next 2 months or so. They will not speak English. I will be Fula. The language they speak is Pulaar...very confusing!!! But I will be forced to learn since they will not speak English. The Gambians are all very nice thus far.

We went to the market yesterday. I was able to buy fabric to make clothes. To buy fabric and have a skirt made is about the equivalent of $2. Pretty amazing! Oh, another great accomplishment...I have been able to swallow my pills thus far!! We only have to take it once a week. So I've only done it twice so far...but still, I'm getting better about hiding it in my food and tricking myself!

Well I must go for now...it doesn't sound like there will be too much email access while I'm here. Feel free to write letters. I would love to receive them!! I will write when I am able to buy postage.

Jam tan. (Peace Only)

Well, it's just about that time. I am headed out tomorrow to Philadelphia. Then on Wednesday, I have a long traveling time of 18 hours until I reach my destination of The Gambia!! I have a couple of layovers along the way. I can't wait until I actually arrive in the country that will be my new home for the next couple of years. I will keep you updated as often as possible.