Monday, January 18th

I am familiar with where The Gambia is. I've often wondered if the African tribe that originally had that land had to fight tooth and nail to keep it since the entire country follows the north and south banks of the Gambia River. Seems like it would be prime real estate! 

And why are you not just familiar with the Gambia but often wonder about it?  So few people have heard of it!  I know I hadn't before I was assigned.  I think I am even more impressed by this than I am of your squat skills and that is saying a lot!

When I was there way back in the late 80's, it is safe to say that the land next to the river wasn't very well populated in general although there were a few large villages here and there.  Maybe concerns about flooding?  Or, maybe the hippos?  No one wants to hang with the hippos.  Of course, one of the main villages that is on the river was well known for its role in the slave trade. Those people needed the river for commerce.  While I was there, not a lot went up and down the river. 

I think the widest part of the Gambia is only 14 miles (I should fact check myself on that but am too lazy right now) so in that respect I suppose no one is all that far from the river!

Besides ****e Kente's tribe, the Mandinkas,  there are a handful of other tribes in the Gambia, mostly co-existing side by side quite well.  Most people, even little kids, spoke multiple languages with ease.  Really an impressive model of getting along that now seems exceedingly rare. 

To answer your question: Years ago I had to take the Multiple Subject Assessment Test (redundant, huh?), once called the National Teacher Exam. During the exam I was presented with a Map of Africa pre and post WWII and had to explain the differences in borders between the two maps. I noticed a long skinny country running west to east along the unlabeled Gambia River. I piqued my curiosity and I did a little research to find out what the country was and that's when I found out the Roots connection. And there you have it! 

Kairk I only have the one tattoo and hubby was not impressed. It means a lot to me and is a good reminder. 

That is cool that your body requested the healthy meal. I find that happening more often these days too!

Well its a sunny day for the moment here on the north coast. Yesterday it absolutely poured all day. Lowland flooding. Fortunately I spent the day at a scrabble party on high ground and a toasty wood stove with lovely people. The only downside is there was too much good food but I stayed out of the desserts . It was all vegetarian hippie food and healthy but not much protein.  I ate too many nuts . Down a half today so thats good.

I should be able to get a short walk in at the bird sanctuary across from the art studio.  Then I have loads of accounting stuff for the gallery that I really don't know how to do. Oh well.  Its amazing how a little sunlight makes the day better.  

No more pot luck events on the horizon so should be able to do routing eating.   

sounds like you all are doing well. Kairk, you eat like a bird.    diane s

Good Evening... Hope everyone has had a healthy and happy day.  I had a wonderful day yesterday at the show...the music was incredible.  Today, I had another session with my trainer and an hour on the elliptical.  Laundry in between Netflix.  And, getting ready to meal prep for the week.  All is well ...