Adventures in coiffure & Medecine

BEFORE

Wednesday morning it was 6 degrees (about 42 F) outside. Maybe 11 (54 F) inside. We tend to get up around 4:30 when the roosters, dogs, and bladders can no longer be ignored, and we review vocabulary and syntax, and prepare breakfast and lunch.  That sounds really early, but we are both sound asleep by 9:15. 

    Weds morning was an interesting discussion by some of the Swazi staff of religion. Curious mix of fundamentalist Christian and "traditional" African.  Some practicing Christians here also consult "faith healers" to "throw the bones" to help communicate with the ancestors.  There was some exorcism in the church service we attended, and a lot of rhythmic group movement and spinning that was more "traditional" than Christian. And really impressive singing!

AFTER;

The "salon" sissi in our village had said she'd shave my beard and cut my hair weds afternoon.  I showed up and the pictured girl went to work. Turns out to be the little sister of the girl who runs the shop, visiting from her home in Capetown, SA. Good job, huh?  Should be, for $1.50 (US).  You can see from the sign behind us that they also offer cornrowing and conking.  Not sure they could do much in that way for me. 

Thursday morning was language class: 3 hours of rules on agreement between adjectives and 8 classes (really 9!) of siSwati nouns. Impenetrable. 

Thursday afternoon we visited a "traditional healer," pictured, with the spear. On his knees speaking in tongues to the ancestors at one point. Probably not covered by the Affordable  Care Act. I was hoping the ancestors could help with syntax. 

 Then afterward  some of the PC trainees joined in the dancing, pictured.  Much controversy between "traditional healers", churches, and health care providers. 

Friday morning. We met the US ambassador.  Very impressive and inspiring 25 year career State Dept officer who had served all over Aftics. 

Now  "spa day."  How to make your permanent site and yourself comfortable. Furniture , yoga!  Next week we visit our "permanent" (2 year) site, leaving Tuesday, returning Friday.