Friday

Today, we were treated with a visit to Majorelle Gardens. It has plants from all over the world. There was even a saguaro cactus. Inside, there was also a museum about the Amazingh people, native to Morocco. They are incorrectly called Berbers (barbarians). The exhibit had artifacts that showed us how they dressed, how they cooked food, and what musical instruments they played. Additionally, there was a small showroom with pieces by Yves Saint Laurent. We boarded the van to go to our cooking experience. With extra time, we took a while to walk around one of the new parts of Marrakech. There are modern department stores and American fast food restaurants. At 12:00 PM (5:00 AM in Arizona), we entered the house of Houssnia’s brother. Some traditional houses in Marrakech have tiny doors that open into incredibly large courtyards. Each courtyard is surrounded by long, narrow rooms. This house was three stories high. The gorgeous courtyard has been converted into a restaurant, with a trickling fountain in the center. We watched Houssnia’s brother prepare chicken tajine for us, which was only an example. Our food was already made, just like on a cooking show on television. However, I felt lucky to be able to smell the tajine as it cooked and feel the warmth of the open-fire grill. The recipe includes potatoes, carrots, ginger, cumin, salt, and sunflower oil. Our dessert was a fresh orange. Next, we walked to another house in Marrakech, but this one has been converted into an art gallery. It is a foundation dedicated to supporting artisanship in Marrakech. In the courtyard, we heard musicians play traditional instruments and watched a woman weave bracelets. There were four art exhibits featuring photographs, posters, and paintings. We were served tea and cookies and enjoyed the musicians, clapping along to the beat. The girls began to get henna tattoos, each different and beautiful. At the end, Houssnia and Max thanked the host parents and reminded us again that our experience is invaluable. A couple of Scottsdale students stood to speak on behalf of the group and conveyed perfectly our mixed feelings. I’m disappointed that the last night has come so quickly, yet there is no reason to be sad. I’m going to keep in contact with my host family- they plan to Skype with me and guide me through cooking tajine. I’m delighted to have tomorrow to be with the group in the Medina and to enjoy time with my family for one more delicious lunch. We will have to pack and go to the airport. Goodbyes are sad. When it finally comes time to leave, I will say what my Moroccan friends say. “See you later!”

EM