The braai last night reminded me of a story about celebrations in Botswana. The subject of weddings came up during orientation and one of our leaders explained that when word of a wedding spreads, it spreads far and all are welcome to come, invitation or not. Literally thousands of people show up and a massive celebration ensues and is accompanied, of course, by a massive feast. Our leader told us that when a wedding is announced, “all the chickens in Botswana fear for their lives” because so much food is to be made.
Speaking of feasts, today the gang decided we would take advantage of the kitchens in our dorms, and so we picked up some groceries from the local mall. We also recruited one of the German students, Jürgen, who had attended culinary school, to lend some guidance in the kitchen. Things couldn’t have gone smoother and we had one of (hopefully) many family style dinners together.
We played some pickup soccer again tonight. There are no fields with lights on, so we play on an asphalt court, which works just fine, and tonight we had actual goals to shoot on, which was an upgrade. It really is a good time, too. Everyone gets opportunities to touch the ball, yet there is a decent pace for the more competitive players.
Pan fried chicken with a whiskey-based demi-glaze on a bed of medium grain rice and a side of seasonal, steamed vegetables all paired nicely with a bottle of tap water for dinner…
Wow, you are not only a great adventurer, you are a wonderful writer. I can picture the people, culture, traditions, soccer games, and yes, the food! Glad to hear you are eating well and experiencing so many cool things! Sad to hear you won’t be able to write as much due to the web restrictions! Once learning of your blog, I find myself excited to live vicariously through you… Now, I’ll just be all the more appreciative of any entry you’re able to add… Your jeep sure rides well in all this snow!
ReplyDeleteJules :)
Tomato soup and grilled cheese
Mook,
ReplyDeleteToo bad about the limit on the blogging time. Love to hear about the people and culture and food. Julie is such a character! Although, your jeep is the vehicle to have in this MN winter. Enjoy your first week in class.
Love, The Mom
Mike,
ReplyDeleteYes, bummer on the blog time. Not sure how much of the flooding you have seen in Aussie, but massive, and worst in a hundred years. We are fine on our little mountain, but 12 dead and over fifty missing.
Sounds like you are learning the way of life in Africa, very interesting.
Your pa would be so proud, keep up the good work.
Love, Cheryl