Getting closer

23 days and counting. Time is getting short to complete all the work tasks, and finish preparations to depart. Egypt, along with other States in the Middle East is still in the throes of revolution, although Egypt seems to be restoring some sense of normalcy. I have read Egyptian tourism is in terrible straits as a result of all the turmoil so perhaps the rates will be more favorable. At this point, the exact itinerary is a bit fluid for Egypt but the major points to explore are of course the pyramids, a camel ride or two. Having never experienced a revolution, Tahrir (Revolution) Square would be something different. If Zahi Hawass is not too busy, a private tour of the Egyptian Museum would be nice. Barbara has her heart set on some sort of trip on the Nile. With the reduction in tourism, there may also be an opportunity to climb inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu.

30 Days!

Thirty days and counting before our first flight to Amsterdam, then continuing to Athens. Egypt is gradually returning to normal and with 40 days before our scheduled departure to Cairo, I am feeling better about the stability of the country and our relative safety. Overall, I am impressed with the Egyptian people, as we and the world watched, they forced a brutal dictator out of the country and pushed the government to reckon with their legitimate demands. It is unknown what the eventual outcome will be, but I am hopeful meaningful change will be the result of their tenacity, sacrifice and determination. All of this was accomplished with mostly peacful means, except for Mubarack's attempt's to stop the protests with his secret police and brutal methods. With a history of many thousand years, this is another page in the trials, tribulations and success of the Egyptian people. The pyramids are still there, the mummies are resting somewhat peaceably in the Cairo museum, Zawi Hawass is working hard to repair the damage and we will be there in 40 days to see not only the history, monuments and artifacts, but a new day for the Egyptian people.