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May 07, 2007

NCS Morocco Pre-Trip Dinner

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The Spread

In anticipation of our forthcoming adventure, a genuinely delicious and deliciously genuine Morocco dinner was prepared by Madame Michele Spittler at the Dent’s wonderful home in Chevy Chase (thank you, Sara). The party line was that it was Michele’s first attempt at couscous and the wonderful medley of meats, fruits, vegetables, and cheeses but I am highly skeptical. I’m just as skeptical on Anne Harrison’s “first time” at pistachio-infused baklava which was just as tasty. At our first sub-par meal experience in Maroc, we’ll remind them of their talents and show them the kitchen.

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Students' Table

Plentiful food aside, it was a great first opportunity to meet everyone, review the latest itinerary, and answer a variety of questions on the trip, the culture, and Global LAB processes. Provocative dinner discussions too. I mean, how often does one discuss the linguistic origins of “Berber”? The excitement is palpable, and I know we’re in store for many memorable experiences come June. I’ve already caught wind of the camel-ride movement, and we’ll see what we can do on that front [Special note to parents: no overseas insurance, no camel!].

I regret not having had more time with you, student travelers, but we’ll shore that up when we meet again later this month. Do begin to post your own personal introductions to the group (include a photo), share your reflections on what motivated you to join this trip, and tell us what you’re especially looking forward to…and not—hint: your first squat toilet tête-à-tête? “Mabrouk” (“congratulations”, in Arabic) on your enlightened decision to take this journey!

Alex

May 20, 2007

Pre-Travel Orientation

We had a full house Friday evening for our mini pre-travel orientation in Madame Spittler's classroom. Thanks for everyone's attendance, involvement (excellent questions and suggestions), and eagerness. I can sense that June 7th can't come soon enough. Although we weren't able to get through the entire agenda--we'll save the impromptu Moroccan Arabic lesson and a more detailed eye of the Student Manual for our JFK layover--the revealing introductions, the detailed review of the itinerary, and the Fez slideshow placed us on solid ground. How incredible was it to learn that Alyssa and Annette--unbeknownst to them until now--are both relatives of Patrick Henry?! And it was also interesting to learn of some of your favorite places that hold special meaning, from the Outer Banks to the Adirondacks, from Mt. Hood to, well, "home". One of my goals is to add "Morocco" to your growing lists. I re-emphasized the importance and fun we can create with this blog, so I look forward to reading your entries pre-departure.

Erin Durkay spoke of the NCS honor code at the outset--and your obligation to keep it while on our trip. As we embark on this North African experience, let's remember that we're doing so as one group, not as individuals; we're doing so as a community of responsible, knowledge-seeking world citizens. With this in mind, let's pledge to maintain our group fiber and outlook throughout the journey. Flexibility, humor, an open mind, and a sense of togetherness will help open new doors to all of us. See you late a.m. at DCA on 6/7.

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Jo introduces herself while Peter Gutterman, Amelia, and Stephanie listen

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Sara, daughter Annette, and Margaret--shortly after the "Patrick Henry" moment

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Erin Durkey reminds all that the NCS Honor Code isn't on holiday while in Maroc

May 24, 2007

Hi from Alyssa

Hey Guys! I am getting so excited about this trip! I see that I am the first one of the kids to post so i really don't know if i am doing this right... i am going shopping this weekend to find some good long sleeved light weight clothes. Should be fun! See you all on June 7th :)

May 30, 2007

Charting Our Course

With just over 1 week before we touch down in Marrakesh, I wanted to post this map of Morocco to give us a geographic grounding. I encourage everyone to invest in a quality map and bring it with them. Our villages in The High Atlas Mountains aren't included on this map, but if you locate Jebel Toubkal (Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in all of North Africa at over 13,600 feet), we'll be in its vicinity.

Insightful explorers come to understand their terrain...make the Atlas your friend!

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