Yummy muesli for breakfast before heading off on foot at 9am. Our guides put on a fast pace on the long steady climb so a few of us slowed right down and enjoyed the amazing views of the terraced valley, ploughed fields, herdsman, cows, sheep, and laden mules. Walked to the tiny Berber village of Chamharouch, where there was a pretty waterhole. Sat in the sun photographing the local women. Remained beside the waterhole when some of our group continued further up the mountains, and soon spotted Jim and Ben silhouetted on the peak above. The water was too cold for a swim but the sun lovely and warm.
Walked back down the track slowly with Ann and spent an hour wandering through the maze of Aroona lanes, past the mosque and washerwomen, making room for mules in the narrow lanes. Took lots of photos; hope some are as good as they look through the lens.
Watched and listened to the movement of sheep and goats through the narrow streets into a grotty courtyard and then into a building and out again onto a second-floor animal holding area. Non-stop chorus of bleats, baahs and moos, and requests for "stylo" (pen) from the village lads below our vantage point. Struggling to describe this village because there is so much happening - so many miniature tableaux of mountain life. This is a world – no, centuries - away from my life back home.
Sat around and played MAD wearing sleeping bag against the cold. Then ate delicious potatoes, tomatoes and onions over a bit of meat in tajine on oven-fresh still-warm pita bread. I was full when we heard that the musicians weren't coming to our house tonight. Some of our group were relieved but I had been looking forward to the traditional songs and dancing. Took myself to bed instead.
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