Sorry about the break but things are becoming more mundane and routine so it is more difficult to think of things to write about. This past weekend was eventful so I'll start there.
If you've ever taught school then you have an idea of how taxing a workweek can be. Now multiply that by a language barrier and power outages and that is what my week is like. Needless to say, blowing off steam on the weekend becomes something of a necessity.
This week Charlotte's host brother took us out with a few of his friends. All we were told was that we were going somewhere to play pool but when we got there it was far more than a pool hall. In fact, the sole billiards table sat alone in a corner apart from the main attraction – SALSA!
The latin music bounced from wall to wall with patrons caught in the crossfire. The dancefloor appeared to be filled with professionals stepping and spinning perfectly in sync. It reminded me of one of those 90s teen flicks in which everyone busts out an impeccably choreographed jig during the climactic prom scene. Okay, I might have reached a bit for the comparison but let's just say I would've been out of my league had I attempted to join.
Fortunately, it was entertaining enough just to watch from the sidelines. The moves they pulled off were simply amazing to watch and they would switch partners without missing a beat in transition. But if you know me, you know I am not content remaining a spectator. A few of us are going to their weekly class this Wednesday so next time I'll be giving you a firsthand account instead of the watcher's point of view!
Saturday
Soccer, or football as they call it everywhere in the world but the U.S., is by far the premiere sport here in Dakar. Oddly enough, softball seems to rank pretty high as well. My host, Ahmadou, plays on a team and even won MVP last year. Last week he hit two homeruns – one of which was a grand slam! This week he put up similar numbers.
The field where they play is an experience unto itself. The games are played at the American Club so it is kind of like having a piece of home right here in Dakar. Usually at least one team speaks English and the concession stand boasts hotdogs, pop (Yes, I said "pop." Soda is for baking), and American candy.
As I was finishing off a bag of skittles and preparing to leave Ahmadou asked me if I wanted to play. I thought he just meant playing catch or something but when I followed him I realized I was actually about to sub in for a team that was a few players short. I've been jogging regularly since I've been here and eating healthy so I figured that, along with my natural athleticism, should be enough to get me through a game.
However, once the game started I was quickly reminded that I hadn't picked up a bat or glove in at least 10 years! Surprisingly, I made a few good snags, hit a double, and scored a run. We can all pretend the three errors I made never happened. Shhh, don't tell anybody!
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