Thanks for the information, Bilan. When I did the currency conversions, I had a pretty good idea the sister's were having some fun at my expense. That is cool; I like a good joke.

I am a white, American revert to Islam. I am very interested in a local Somali woman. She is divorced and lives with her mother. Her father died years ago. I understand that Somali culture dictates that I pay a dowry, but to whom? Her mother? Her uncles? Both? And, what amount is considered socially proper? I understand this is in addition to the mahr I would pay her.