An evening on the Banks of the Nile...

It has been wonderful getting back together with good friends here... especially one family from Germany and another from the states. They both have kids and being together is very encouraging. Our latest outing was to an island that rests where the two Nile rivers (the White and the Blue) merge, in the center of K-Town. For years the only way to reach the island was by ferry boat, but recently a bridge was built to span the short distance, making our planned adventure very accessible!

The plan was dinner by the Nile- and it was truly lovely! It started out hotter than anticipated- I guess the sun doesn't really lose it's heat after 4pm... or 5pm.. or...! But soon enough the breezes grew cooler and we laid back in the sand while supping on homemade hamburgers and potato and pasta salads. The "beach" was teaming with locals picnicking and playing soccer in the dark Nile sand. It was a relaxing time of enjoying the outdoors, the rare beauty of this place and friends.

We've officially been here for over 2 weeks and the jet-lag has, or at least should have, passed. We are however, still struggling a bit during the late night hours, tossing and turning in the wee hours of the morn, making our true-mornings quite unpleasant! But, all in all, we are doing well and handling the transition back to African life in stride. Ben is a champ and is winning the hearts of the people here with one look- honestly though, who can refuse those cheeks?! The women in the market adore him, calling us over, hugging him and kissing his feet, hands and once, even the mouth! Our usual quick trip took at least triple the amount of time... Which we loved! How the once sour looks have melted into huge smiles!

We continue to meet with former colleagues and make new contacts, bringing new opportunities. Our timing seems to be good, as some doors have opened that weren't open before. As soon as things become more concrete, we'll let you in on the plans!

Visas: We started the renewal process on April 1st and 6 days later our previous ones expired. Our visa-helper-guy, Mohammed, seems to think there shouldn't be a problem... so now it's just back to the waiting game.

Photos: Our arrival and spot in the sand... Ben resting in our stroller (note soccer players praying in the background)... Ben's supper time... Khawajas (foreigners) and locals sharing some sand... The water is only about waist deep during the dry season... The Cheeks- they just don't stop!!!... Our current modes of transport- 1st pic: the bus (Muhata)... 2nd pic: Rickshaw (pronounced Ruckshaw here)...