We've been doing Participatory Analysis for Community Action (PACA) activities at the dar shebab (house of youth).  This has involved community mapping and interviews with youth ranging in age from 16 to 20.  The youth have been enthusiastic participants in the process.

At the dar chebab: It just goes to show, kids are the same where ever you go.

After a slap-happy Darija class this morning (we've been going strong for 10 days now, and we're getting quite giddy), our homework this afternoon was to explore our community.  We walked the market, experienced all of the sights, sounds, smells and activity, and chatted with folks along the way.  Tomorrow is another community day - and of course we'll study our Darija!

Cus cus Friday with my incredibly hospitable host family.

I've had such a fascinating Peace Corps experience thus far, with highlights including initial training at a lovely hotel on the beach near Rabat, arrival in our host city and warm greetings from our host family.  The family is so kind and hospitable (pictures to follow soon!).  We will receive 11 weeks of training in this charming little city in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.  

I should have heeded the advice of the Peace Corps volunteer who suggested I pack every sweater I own.  We've had snowfall for several days, but with the help of an English-speaking petit taxi driver, Mstafa, I was able to find some waterproof and insulated boots to wear.  No more wet feet!

Classes in Darija, the Moroccan Arabic dialect, have been quite challenging, but I've been getting there slowly but surely.  I need to remember to speak Darija instead of English whenever I know the phrase or word I am trying to express, irregardless of whether I'm speaking to someone familiar with English.  My teacher, Majit, is very patient and dedicated, but the classes are fast-paced.

About 50 volunteers-in-training are stationed within a short distance of the city, and we are forming strong bonds.  There are several other couples training in the area, both young and older, and many volunteers from the Seattle area.

After turning off the computer where we were following the Seahawks playoff game highlights, and believing the game to be over after Wilson threw his fourth interception, what a delight it was to learn in the morning that we're Superbowl bound!  Go Hawks!

The waves on the beach at the hotel near Rabat were reminiscent of the King Tide we experienced not too long ago in Washington, on the Pacific coast!

An appreciative group of trainees thanks the wonderful cooks while our enthusiastic leaders lead a lively tribute.

Our host city is a beautiful enclave in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco.

Majit, our teacher for the next 11 weeks, leads us on a snowy tour of the city.

Peace Corps Morocco Staging

We depart Sunday for historic Philadelphia for staging with other Peace Corps Morocco volunteers.  Orientation begins Monday.