Well played, Madge

Yesterday we reported that Malawi -- in what is widely believed to be a publicity stunt -- announced Madonna would be adopting an orphan during her visit to the African country.

Madonna's flack vehemently denied the official state declaration. Suddenly team Material Girl had a problem.

These days what self-respecting international icon goes to an impoverished nation and doesn't adopt a child?

As they say, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

Or Kabbalah water.

In lieu of adopting, Madonna will be sinking three million dollars into a project to bring Kabbalah water to Malawi. The mystical water will be sprinkled on the orphans.

OK, beyond its magical qualities, the water will be clean and less likely to infect the orphans with waterborne parasites. But make no mistake. This is Kabbalah water.

So the dance continues. How Malawi will respond is anyone's guess.