Other random things I have learned from this trip:
The vegetarian option is always better.
Three to a tent is miserable unless you are in the middle.
Always roll up your windows on gravel roads.
Baked beans on toast is a very common breakfast meal in many parts of the world.
Combing Mel's hair is a project that takes a good 20-30 minutes. Longer if I try not to rip her scalp off.
Sunrise > sunset
Always wear dark underclothes. You never know when the opportunity to swim may come upon you.
Toilet paper is a great luxury. As are toilet seats.
Air conditioning may be the difference between feeling exhausted and feeling alive.
There is no easy way to turn down food without offending. It doesn't matter if you are so full that one more bite will make throw up. It also doesn't matter if you have been sick with stomach issues all week. The Gambian grandmothers will still try to force-feed you.
Some children could care less if you only know English and will talk your ear off in Wolof anyway.
Sometimes the thing you dread most becomes something you look forward to (i.e. overnight layovers in Lagos).
