new observations...

i have noticed at least 2 things in the last 24 hours...A. it is very hot here for january (especially since i take the stairs to everywhere because the elevators are, how do you say...oh yes, dangerous) and B. traffic here is infamous for a reason...they have the highest pedestrian mortality rate in the world and i think i know why...

A. the dont use traffic lights unless absolutely necessary, which is nearly never, which means its a free for all
B. all road lines are ignored, hence why all the cars are rather dented on all sides
C. there are approx 10 million people in this city, and those who dont use the metro, use taxis and buses, meaning that there are more cars here than i have ever seen, at least more than silver lake has, that's for sure...

so here's my prediction, i have a 100% chance of being hit by a car...ive accepted this as inevitable, i just hope it is a small car going very slow...

anyway, i made some friends! my greatest fears have been alleviated momentarily because people around here are quite nice...i met sarah's friend Bethany who is great and made me lasagna and she introduced me to her room mate and an egyptian/german named Mustafa! he is absolutely crazy and cool and has all the connections in the world. he and i had a beer last night (dont abuse alcohol) and talked about his love for toby keith among other things...

additionally, many things are happening, i got a cell phone and my number is 016 1770414 but u have to add the country code i think too...anyone who calls me automatically gets 6 camels and a free mummy to repay their loyalty...im moving into my apartment tonight too i think which rocks and ill post pics of that too soon, and most importantly i am headed to the Sudanese Refugee place tomorrow with bethany to see how i can contribute by teaching english or whatever which should be absolutely incredible...

there is much more to come, especially as i explore, check facebook for pics and please write me emails (truffner@elon.edu) or write on my wall cuz i miss u all...

Tahd (arabic transliteration)