Culture Shock

Sorry about the lack of updates; the last few days have been a roller coaster ride thanks to every study abroader's best friend, culture shock. Culture shock is the mixture of emotions that you feel when you are assimilating to a new hand culture. In celebration of the past few days, I have assembled a list of reasons to be culture shocked while in Senegal:
1. No Shaking of the Left Hand - It is culturally inappropriate to do anything with the left hand. When you eat from the communal bowl, your right hand becomes your ladel. When you walk into a room full of people, it is your right hand that acknowledges everyone's presence. This is one cultural custom I am going to have to let you figure out.
2. No McDonald's - So if you were planning to take a trip here any time soon to taste what a Senegalese Big Mac tastes like, you will be slightly disheartened when I tell you there are no American businesses here. Many, many American products, but no stereotypical fast food joints. So you will be able to purchase that bag of Lays I had been craving, but won't be able to have it as a side with my mcburger.
3. No Washers/Dryers - Most average Senegalese family's hire someone to do their laundry for them. The positive, more jobs are created, but the bad news is that most Senegalese families won't have th full washer/dryer experience.
4. No Chicken Nuggets - My search for the chicken nuggets began with the realization that you can order most average American foods here: hamburgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, pizza, etc. However, discussion with my peers has lead me to the belief this will be an endless pursuit. They have plenty of chickens here in Senegal but lack the process quality of American chicken.
These are just a few reasons to feel culture shock while in Senegal. Now the feelings of anxiety are starting to recede to a minimum, you will be able to expect more updates. Hopefully tomorrow I can post about Korite. Bon nuit!