Bonne Année!

Cameroonians put Americans to shame when it comes to their ability to celebrate a holiday. No only did most people I know in Dschang go out dancing on New Years' Eve (usually returning at 5 or 6 am), but everyone celebrates the entire next day. Alex and I kicked off our New Years' celebration with friends in Doumbouo. The main carrefour in the village of Batsengla was alive with activity. Beers, sodas, and kola nut were shared around. Alex, our friend Yvette, and I then returned to Dschang and split our time between a party organized by a local Peace Corps volunteer and the great bar/cabaret below Hotel Constellation, which featured a band that covered not only popular Cameroonian music, but also the occasion Tracy Chapman or Bob Marley hit. Like serious party poopers, we lasted until about 1:30am before returning to Keuleng under a nearly full moon.

The following day, Alex and I did the rounds at friends' homes, eating at each stop along the way.

First, the home of Breaking Ground program manager, Paul Zangue:

Then, my family, the Nanas:

Third, Alex's family, the Njokos:

And finally, we returned home to Keuleng to ANOTHER meal. Go team! Needless to say, we went to bed early that night!