Krysia's Birthday

3rd of March 2011

Dear Krysia is 53 today and doesn't she look good! We heard via email and text from lots of people today, wishing her a happy birthday and we thank you all for your kind messages.

We woke to the clear blue sky and sunshine we hoped would be here in the Ziz gorge. From the plains above above, you wouldn't imagine the beauty and fertility that lies in this thickly palmed valley. From hamada to palmerie in a matter of minutes. Just like a mini Grand Canyon.

We set off on the bike to find a decent signal for our internet and stopped at a cafe at Aoufous. Here we set up our computer on the table and posted our blog before skyping krysias mum and then Jaimie, emails to read and send. What a sight, much to the amusement of all around but keeping in touch is part of the deal. Writing the blog has been a new way to communicate, which I enjoy doing and will endeavor to keep interesting. Its so interesting to be here!

M'hamed, who runs the campsite wants to speak as many languages as possible, as well as jokes!Another chap we met today runs a tourist service and he speaks seven languages! An enterprising young man if ever there was one. An old fella fixing a mud wall in the palmerie asked if I'd like to help him? Laughing heartily when I said of course . The traditionally dressed young beauties smile and say hello as we watch them wide eyed, in awe. Everyone is so welcoming. But of course there are always those who take advantage and charge a few dirhams too much, or hassle you for something or other. Their karma is their own, move on swiftly and find a good soul around the corner.

We walked into the palmerie as the sun dipped towards the horizon and lost ourselves in the myriad of tiny footpaths that connect this vast area. We find ourselves again! Without any problem and return to the van for a birthday supper prepared for us by locals and delivered to our van! It was gorgeous, a chicken targine for two, prepared by the owners wife, lovingly. Salad, home cooked bread, oranges and crushed dates to finish. We're even going to have a bottle of wine we brought with us, daring I hear you say but it's a rare treat and not one we indulge in very often these days.

All our love to you

Ted and Krysia

ps good luck to Jaimie who opens her first public exhibition tonight in Bristol. That's our girl, go for it.