On Morocco Time

Today we were on “Morocco time” for sure. Yes it’s a thing; just like “CP” time lol. Today we were “on our way” to a few things and and ended up stopping here, checking in with others there and generally spending our time in the moment. After breakfast we started off learning how to take the tram, going to ICLS for orientation. There was even a bullet in one of the slides in the  orientation about expecting Moroccan’s to be late, which was a relief because I’m absolutely loving not living by the 30 minute intervals carved into my life 5 days a week by my work calendar. 

Then we headed to see Tour Hassan by day (while the gates were opened) and the neighboring mausoleum which houses the king’s grandfather, father, and uncle. 

Then our group had a the most tasty lunch at Dar Naji! So glad we made time for that! Google Lense + translate really came through with reading that menu! I got a tagine with meat and vegetables and by the end of day had Moroccan mint tea 3 times; with each meal! 

After delaying by 30 min, then debating whether  to request  another delay, I decided to cancel my Arabic lesson… 😕 we had too much to do and not enough time. We spent the rest of the afternoon talking, walking and visiting each other’s placements.  

By the time we got to the placements most children had left. But, the children and teachers still at each preschool were so sweet! The preschools were decorated with charming greenery, flowers, murals. But the kids were the highlight ran  up to us, total strangers, to give hugs while exclaiming in  combinations of French, Arabic or English! My grandmother who is a lover of the French language would be proud to hear I’ll be drawing on my French skills all week!

Lastly, we went to an after-school basketball practice at a sports complex. We even got some light jogging in as we were running behind. After sitting around and chatting and cheering on the sidelines we headed home. Moroccans eat dinner much later than most Americans around 9pm so we got in right on time. After a long day last night I’m ready to be knocked out! Tomorrow will be the first day of  volunteering! And I definitely don’t want to do that on Morocco time! 😅