First day of classes and more

Now that we're back in Cairo, it's time to get some work done. Classes started yesterday; we had class from 9 to 1, which we'll have from Monday to Thursday for the rest of our time here. We spent our first class talking about the structure of the course for the semester as well as web site design and a few other logistical things. Class today was spent editing our photos and putting together a slideshow to present for a brief critique. After class today, we met with Denis at Cafe Noir to discuss the first book we had to read, "The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit".

Our long-term goal for the semester is to put together a book of our work in Egypt. We're supposed to find something to focus on, and Rob gave us a list of topics and suggestions (abstraction, architecture, color, similarities between cultures, etc.) I really want to focus on portrait work, kids in particular. I haven't done much with portraits before, but I feel like when they're done well, they're fascinating to look at. You can tell so much about a person through a great picture. The kids here are so candid and honest, so they're wonderful to photograph.

Last night was Matt (one of the fluid mechanics guys)'s 21st birthday, so of course, we went out again. We went to the Marriott and had a few drinks. As a whole, the night was pretty fun, but that's when the homesickness really hit me. When we first got in Cairo, I was somewhat homesick, but last night I just broke down. Thanks to some words of wisdom from Rob and some amazing people I'm on the dialogue with, I was just fine, but I certainly had my moment. I only wish it hadn't been so public - I know being homesick is nothing to be embarrassed about, but I don't like people seeing me cry.

Anyway, we have a free day tomorrow, so I think I'll sleep in a bit (I've gotten up at 7am or earlier every day this week) and then maybe head to the markets to take some photos. The weather here in Cairo is so much nicer - it's still hot, but it's definitely tolerable. In the evenings, there's even a slight breeze, which makes walking around Zamalek enjoyable. There are lots of hidden gems within the city - coffee shops, small eateries, and my personal favorite, the falafel shop right down the street from the Flamenco.

I don't have many new pictures to post, but as soon as I have some more, I'll put them up. Tomorrow we're going to the X-Games event I'd mentioned in my previous post, so that should provide plenty to photograph!

Oh, and Rob would like me to mention he's afraid of sharting.