Update: One Year

Dear family & friends,

One year ago, in the evening of July 3rd, Joye and I landed in Mali. That's right, we've been in Mali for 12 whole months! And though the country probably doesn't look or feel much different (given its the same time of year), our perspective certainly has. However, instead of taking this event as an opportunity to reflect on the last year of experiences, I would rather take the time to thank you for your continued love and support. Whether a care package, email, facebook wall post, or blog comment, many of you have kept our spirits high with your encouragement and continuous updates of life back home. We also want to thank all of you for reading our blog, whether regularly or occasionally, and we hope that you have enjoyed following our adventures.

Here are some other fun facts about our blog, thanks to the "Stats" tab (as of 6/2/11):
Number of post (including this): 76
Total number of pageviews: 9052
Top 3 most viewed posts: "Packing List for Mali," "Malian Food," and "Malian Fashion."
Countries where viewed (from most to least): USA, Mali, France, Germany, Canada, Brazil, Russia, UK, Israel, China

We are also happy our viewership has been fairly steady since we came to Mali a year ago, so again, thank you!

However, we would always like to know how to keep your attention. And now that we've been here for so long, it has become difficult to remember what Americans might interesting. So, if you have a second, please put a blog post topic suggestion in our comments session. Anything from aspects of Malian culture to certain perspectives we may have on social issues. All is welcome.

Lastly, for our readers who originate from the USA (who are the majority thus far), Happy Independence Day!

-James (& Joye)