A Taste Of Morocco

Although this isn't the traditional henna design, I wanted to explore henna before experiencing it abroad. Henna has deep roots in Moroccan history when Berbers first migrated to the area. Henna is a type of plant which was one of the first to appear in Morocco. In cave paintings of prehistoric humans of North Africa, we are able to see the beginnings of designs that reflected their daily lives as hunters and gathers. Early Berber images reflect aspects of their rural lives, connected to nature and the agrarian cycle. These early images include planting, harvesting, the sun, moon and earth. It is said that these symbols are not only for decoration, but also for protection from the evil spirits believed to dwell in the surrounding trees and streams. More recent designs include, magic numbers and squares, verses from the Koran, Arabic script, geometric shapes triangles, squares, crosses, six and eight-pointed stars, spirals, circles and diamonds as well as motifs representing plants, flowers, humans, eyes and hands in addition to odd numbers that appear to be significant in henna design.

The Significance of Blue in Morocco

Berber traditions are deeply steeped in the supernatural. Arabs, Berbers, and many Jews profoundly believe in the power of the color of blue to ward off evil spirits. It would be impossible to count the doorways and the windows that are painted blue in Morocco and in many other areas of North Africa and the Middle East. It is attributed to a mysterious supernatural power called, "kimia" where even the poorest faithful peasants are able to survive despite subsistent levels of food, often only scant quantities of bread dipped in oil. Satiety is said to be attained more by faith than by food. "What isn't known can't be stolen...." Who can say whether this ancient saying was born out of folklore or the reality of prevalent thieves? Nonetheless, in Morocco perhaps more than any other area of North Africa, the cloak of secrecy and the characteristic of self-debasing modesty exist side by side with scenes of secluded walled courtyards, hidden door-ways painted a luminous blue, women clad in burkas (head-to-toe enveloping cloth "veils"), and djellaba clad men together with vendors of amulets, potions, and formulas all guaranteed to ward off the evil eye. These indigenous nomad peoples of Morocco are called, "Tuareg" or, people of the veil.

The Holiday's

I was so grateful for the holiday's and I am also grateful that they are over. As simple as I try to envision the holiday's to be, I also know that there most likely won't be one for the next few years and at the same time, I know there will be new holiday's to part take in. I really enjoyed spending time with family and friends and the fisrt light of the New Year while writing haiku's. As time approaches, I am beginning to beleive that this is very much becoming a reality.

Yoga for Centering

What does yoga mean to me? Balance. In the chaos of preparation with departure, yoga is keeping me grounded. I am able to stay present and focused, determined to make a mind, body and spirit connection. As this consistent routine continues, I hope to bring this integral part of my life with me to share abroad.

It's Official, I've Been Invited To Serve In......

MOROCCO!!!!!!! It's been well worth the long wait! I got the official invite at my door today. I am so elated and now my journey really begins. The project will most likely be in or near a rural area in Morocco in the mountain region. I will be involved in environmental education & community development with communities near national parks, reserves with ecological and biological importance. I feel like this is a good fit for me and am looking forward to an adventure! I have time to learn French before departure as I will also be learning the Moroccan dialect in country. There will be lots of celebrating to come!

It Sounds Promising

After a phone interview with a designated placement officer from the Washington office at Peace Corps headquarters yesterday, my file is now viewed as: "currently under consideration." I should know more after this week with a potential placement and depature date. Let's not celebrate just yet....

A Sad Day; But It's Not Over

I am saddened to announce that I was advised from the Placement Office today that the invitation deadline for the program I was originally nominated to recently passed and I wasn't issued an invitation departing September 2010. This waiting game is not uncommon and can happen for a number of reasons. As my application still remains in the final review process, where does this leave me after one year and a few months of waiting? Well, it leaves me with more waiting (perhaps another 5+ months into a second year), anticipation, un-groundedness and wonderment. I was told that I may qualify for some kind of alternate program other than the Business sector, perhaps the Health sector in a water sanitation project. I am in good spirits and I am simply not giving up my dream yet. Of course, I will continue to keep you posted on my journey. Thanks to everyone for their kind support and love during a difficult set back.