Hello All

Well today was adventurous and from a Cairene perspective today is only half over. We have found out that the people of Cairo enjoy a Friday and Saturday weekend and that regardless of the day of the week they are out an about to the wee hours of the morning.

Today we went in small groups to a major outdoor market visited by tourists and Egyptians alike. The word was bargaining as we managed to talk down the vendors, who had no prices posted, nearly half of the initial mentioned price to walk away with buyer and seller satisfied. The experience far exceeded the purchases in satisfaction.

We have all been gone nearly a week and all miss our families and friends; however, we have not yet seen enough to want to come back. Unfortunately stomachaches have ailed some of us; but overall we remain ready to go despite periodic weariness.

Tomorrow is Chirstmas in Cairo, and like any good family we will be sharing Egyptian delights with one another--Dirty Santa will be the name of the game. This of course will be after walking to a local Anglican church to participate in their Sunday morning service. I am looking forward to visiting the craft shop at the church because their wares are made by and profits benefit the Sudanese refugees that live in the area where we are staying.

Well off for now to rejuvenate at the local Cairo coffee shop--Cilantro. I will write as events transpire.

Blessings to all,

Eileen