How did I get so busy?!

Well, wonders never cease. Remember me bitching to no end exactly a year ago about how bored I was and how I had nothing to do. Not so much this year. I'm running around doing all sorts of stuff this year. Recently, I've been working with the new trainees (aka "the kids" as they really hate to be called) in Ouahigouya. It's been good. Can't say I feel like I've imparted much wisdom, but I'm trying to help make things less painful and intimidating. (And trying not to hate the secondary ed kids who go home to electricity and indoor plumbing each evening.) They're good folks, though, and resilient. Damn resilient. No infirmery cases or ETs yet. That's quite a feat.

I've also been working on a manual of physical science demos using village-accessible materials. It's right up my alley. And, of course, I need to try out each one at my house to make sure it all works. So my family was quite amused with me and my antics last time I was in the B. (Bourzanga) My brother, for instance, could not figure out why I would want his busted up old speaker. Duh! There's a good magnet in there, my friend. Instant fun for the whole family (and physics class).

In other news, I've been really freaking excited to hear the Raconteurs' album and now I have it. (Thanks Tim!) Mwahhahah! As far as I'm concerned, anything BB touches is golden. Ain't no one who can write a pop song like that guy. And book-wise, if you haven't read Girl With A Pearl Earring by Tracey Chevalier, read it NOW.

And lastly, 31 days and counting 'til Tessa and and Annie touch down in Ouaga. YAY!!!!! My first and only visitors here. Can't wait, dood!