The new normal

In "real life" back in the US, brushing my teeth was never a social activity, and in fact was never an activity that was particularly interesting or notable.

I think you know where I'm going with this: not so in Tanzania.

In the morning, I brush my teeth after breakfast and before I put sunscreen on. I rummage through all my belongings piled on my desk (the only furniture in my room is a bed, a desk, and a chair), find my toothbrush and toothpaste, nab my towel and water bottle and head for the back courtyard. I slide my sandals on, as we do not wear shoes in the house.

Usually this is around 7:30 am, and the sun has risen and the chickens and ducks are running around the courtyard, eating and chasing each other, helter-skelter.

A relative or neighbor inevitably walks through the gate, and I must go through rounds of greetings: I will greet an elder appropriately, they will ask me the news of the morning (Always "good") and how I woke up (always "peacefully"). If I anticipate someone coming, I try to avoid having a mouthful of frothy toothpaste so I'm actually able to reply!

Chickens and ducks wreaking havoc, me spitting my toothpaste into the drain while my uncle wakes up my cousin who sleeps in a room off our courtyard. My aunt coming and going, my mama's grandson bringing fruit or vegetables.

Never a dull moment when brushing your teeth.