Step One: We got Malian names, though they’ve finally figured out how to pronounce our real names. One of the teachers deemed Zoe as Ami Sisoko (after his wife) and Sara as Ayshata Diarra (after his mom, and Maria, our “mom”).
Step Two: We got our hair braided. It was a bit more successful with Sara’s hair, but Zoe’s curls confused the three young coiffeurs, and she almost cried because of the pulling.
Step Three: We got our new clothes from the tailor, and they sort of fit. The tailor also introduced us to our first experience with Malian espresso tea, which is really strong, really sweet, and poured from high heights into tiny cups.
Step Four: We have new dance moves. Our students have taught us to groove African style, with a hint of Shakira. After choreographed hippo moves, we all hit the dance floor and boogied.
Note: We just had a power outage. They look at us funny when we use our flashlights here. So, perhaps we aren't quite African queens yet.
3 comments:
Hi Sara! It's funny, because when I was in Madagascar, I got my hair braided (91 braids), was given a Malagasy name (Fara, meaning little one), got Malagasy clothing, and went dancing with my 'brothers' at the Panorama disco, where they taught me to dance 'Rock-and-roll' style. Perhaps this is an African initiation process...
This is the most fun blog entry yet. You guys are my favorite African Queens!
Sara, I am SO BUMMED I missed your call!! Looks like you are having and amazing time--I miss you!
It has been so much fun to read your entries every day and see your photos! The picture of Zoe getting her hair braided is priceless :) Enjoy, African Queens.
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