Many months of thought went into the name of this blog, Za’atar: Breakfast of Champions. During a hike up Snake Mountain in VT, Leslie and I discussed titles for our respective blogs as we anticipated our departure, her to China and me to Jordan. Once at the top we lounged on the foundations of an old hotel and stared down at the farmland and minuscule houses and barns that comprise the VT countryside. We devoured Godfather themed sandwiches. As we munched through “Don Corleone” and “the Soprano”, we discussed the importance of blog titles and how they set the tone. All of our title ideas involved food and eventually we ended up with titles that included the world “Breakfast”, the the best meal of the day. Yes, I believe we set the right tone. Most of my favorite memories are based around food as it is a place to gather, enjoy one another’s company and satiate hunger. Plus, hangry (hunger that turns into anger) is not a fun way to travel.
When I lived in Amman from 2001-2005, za’atar became one my favorite breakfast dishes. Za’atar is a blend of thyme, salt, sesame and other herbs. Pita bread is dipped in olive oil followed by a mixture of za’atar. I distinctly remember waking up in one of the many wadis (valleys) of Jordan, watching the sunrise while eating za’atar and drinking hot, sweet tea. You can only imagine my excitement that za’atar might become a regular part of diet again.
October 29th, 2012. The date of my departure for Amman, Jordan. My Peace Corps service begins several months from now; however, this blog starts now. I am about to embark on several months of travel to see my sister in Sumberoto, Indonesia, friends in DC and London, and finally my parents in Tirana, Albania. My adventures begin in a week, after a brief respite in Atlanta where I prep to wear long sleeve shirts and long pants/skirts for the next two years. If you couldn’t guess, I have some shopping to complete in order to not shock the muslim country with my current wardrobe. As I bounce from place to place I hope to use this blog to upload photos and the stories associated with those pictures. I intend to send group emails, which means this should remain a two-way conversation! Everyone, I want news about your lives and other various updates.
Stay tuned. One week till take-off.
