It was def. nice to come across this village. After having performed Hajj on several occasions I think there are a few handy things I can point out (while being open to ideas), which will Inshallah help all those planning. I know im planning another trip inshAllah Jan '07 since it coincides with new years weekend.

LL .... Food is an interesting topic. If I were you I'd carry nothing at all from the US. Reason being, you're going to a place where everything is Zabihah (certified by the govt). And if you know for sure you're going to crave something then you can def. pick some up in Makkah before heading to Mina. If you're asking this question from the perspective of not falling ill I would be more careful about the water than the food. The toughest of individuals fall ill after the pilgrimage due to the exhaustion and heat that comes with it, not to forget the crowds involved at every step. Hope this helps. I hope this village sees more activity so that we all learn from others experiences.

Actually I made the village with HUM's JE's in mind. I want others to learn from those who have already gone. For example I have questions about food (what I can bring from the US) etc.

X- then who would visit my JEs? haha. but seriously, i didn't get a chance to finish the series so i don't want to put it anywhere else til it's done. i thought of going even beyond that if i finish it iA and compiling everyone's stories...