This morning I awoke feeling less than a hundred percent. Throughout the night my stomach rumbled and the feelings of nausea rolled over me but I was determined not to leave the warm bed and make my way down the freezing corridor to the washrooms. Despite feeling sick, I needed to walk back down the mountain. The fresh mountain air was wonderful and the walk down refreshing. When we reached the van, I was given the front seat. (reserved for those of us suffering from stomach upsets).

I spent the long drive to our next destination dozing in and out. We stopped at a woman’s cooperative in a small village. We were served a delicious lunch and, despite knowing better, I enjoyed some of the food. Among other things this women’s cooperative works with wool processing to produce rugs. Despite many setbacks and the earthquake 3 years ago that destroyed the operation, the women are back learning and developing projects to benefit the community. Even Rudy tried some artisan work. Who knows, he may take up handicrafts once we get home.

Back on the road to Essaouira, we by turns roasted, and were buffeted by warm winds from our open windows. The air conditioning is not working and so the cramped van has the added benefit of the lovely warm weather. Once in Essaouira, we stopped at our hotel and dragged our luggage to our room. I heard that many of our group went out to take in the sights and get oriented. I, however, climbed under the covers and slept on and off all evening and through the night with Rudy bringing me Spite and other things to help me feel better.