Happy Six Months In-Country-aversary!

As of December 2, 2011 I have officially been in country six full months! I can hardly believe it has already been this long.

I can remember so vividly my last moments at home. I can even recall brining in the New Year at home with friends and Family. Life has certainly changed in my six short months, both here in Mozambique and at home in the States.

I went from a life of relative comfort to a much more rustic existence and to my own surprise have adjusted better than pretty well. I have become more resourceful-learning scrub stuck on grease with sand, and to use laundry detergent when i've run out of dish soap- and if it's possible have become more domestic. I have no doubt that if I had to I could live without running water forever...not that I want to though!

I have communed with all manner of wildlife, from swimming with several ton whale sharks and playing "Auntie" to new born donkeys to sharing a living space with gekkos, newts, a pretty rambuncious but still incredibly cute "African Mutt" and what may potentially turn out to be an African WIld Cat. I have even, much to my chagrin but still quite an accomplishment, wrested with the occassional camel spider.
I went from roommate to single pet mother in one week. Saying "good bye" to my roommate was more emotional than I expected it to be, but i'm glad to have met and lived with her and am forever grateful for all the help she gave me. My initial fears about living alone have quelled. Having Nhemba (my puppy) and Botao (the kitten) around has definitely made the transitition easier. I've established a little bit of a routine and am now connected to the internet at home so I think I'm pretty happy.

Work is still pretty slow but it's getting close to the holiday season so I fear that it's just going to get much slower. I have spent my free time coming up with lots of ideas for how to help improve both my orgs so along with a few other "Non-resolutions" (since I never keep actual New Year's resolutions) I hope to begin working on my ideas in the New Year.

Wow, 2011 is already (almost) over. It started out a little rough but has proved to be one of my best. I am more than confident that 2012 will be just as amazing. I am the master of my fate and Lord willing will succeed in all that I set out to do.

Since coming to Mozambique, I've gained several adorable new siblings and a cool second (or third or fourth) mom. I have been so blessed to have gone through training and these first few months of service with the most awesome group of people ever! It's like having 28 best friends. We all just naturally get along and have since the very beginning. I am so thankful to have my Moz-16 family as a support system and I look forward to building upon, maintaining abd furthuring our friendship for the next 21 months abd many years to come. Anytime a group of us gets together we have already begun to make to get together after service LOL.
I have also been pleasantly surprised by how awesome all the other PCVs are here. Everyone is so down-to-Earth and also really open and helpful. The Peace Corps network has already proved to be an amazing resource (even before I actually got to Moz), not just in Mozambique but also volunteers in surrounding countries and the many RPCVs I've had the pleasure of meeting in whatever form (PC meet-ups, facebook groups, random mutual friends lol). I feel like I have joined a fratenity (for lack of a better word) and look forward to continuing  my association and involvement throughout the rest of my life.

I just need to make it through the rest of my service first. Which, I know that I can and will do with the love, support, advice, prayers, help and cooperation from my family, friends, fellow Moz-16ers (and 15ers, 14ers 13ers 17ers and even Moz-18ers-coming soon) and everyone I've met during my journey.

Thank You!

Until the next milestone! 

Ate Ja!

The Integration Period: a narrative

One day a young girl received a call from a kind man by the name of John. This call was one sent out many many years ago to young people all over the country to travel to far away lands to complete for a full two years of service to mankind. The call was to join the Peace Corps.

 This young girl answered that call with zeal and excitement.

Her story began like so many other volunteers. She quickly packed up her life-somewhat successfully into the requisite 80lbs of luggage- and was off to fulfill a long time dream in Mozambique.
She struggled a bit at the beginning of  Pre-Service Training, but soon made many friends, gained a few new family members, learned muito and had fun. After she swore-in she was ready and once again excited to begin her service...
That is however until she entered...the INTEGRATION PERIOD!!

Our young heroine once again packed her bags and after one final hot shower and a hurried buffet breakfast she was whisked away to a magical land called Inharrime.

When she arrived at her new home she was greeted by many new faces including her fairy god-mother disguised as her new temporary roommate, currently COSing (close of service) volunteer Ann.
Almost immediately, and all according to plan, the young woman was paraded around the tiny yet bustling town where she was introduced to many important members of the community including the Chief of Police, Dona Joanna, and several "Chefes do Bairro" (local neighborhood leaders).

After was seemed like a fairy-tale beginning the real story began. At the urging of her roommate the young woman was pushed into giving a palestra (lecture) to the activistas (community health workers) at her new organization, most of whom spoke only Copi (the local dialect) and could not read or write. She found it difficult at first to tailor her lesson to this group and became increasingly more aware that  her Portuguese skills were definitely not up to par but that even if they were nearly everything that happened at site happened in Copi!

Felizmente! (fourtunately), she was equipped with an excellent book of medical information specifically written for Mozambicans (or at the very least Portuguese speaking Mozambicans). This amazing resource continues to serve her very well during her first three months of service. Our young heroine has giving mini palestras on cholera, TB, Cancroid, Leperasy, Diabetes, PTV and even Children's Rights (thanks to good ol' MozSoft).
Although she is enjoying her work and she believes that her activistas are benefiting from her presence she has come up against two major (allbeit forseen) opponents:

1)Pronunciation-as if she weren't already self-concious about her language skills, having to explain complicated medical jargon has proved to be ten times worse! How can she expect people whose first language also isn't Portuguese to understand what ganglios or meningues are when she isn't even sure she saying it correctly!?

2) The "Misinformation Male Chauvinist "-there is one gentleman in particular at her organization who believes that he is God's gift to Tivikeli. He saunters into the weekly meetings late (if at all) the interrupts the "replicas" (when the weeks selected activistas translate and desiminate the information I gave them on the chose topic in Copi) wuth his own version of what causes and transmits diseases. Then the ladies have a ten minute conversation in Copi and the young lady fears that they are propogating the wrong information he has just given them simply because he is a man.

To get over these obstacles, the young woman has begun to read, write and speak more in Portuguese. She beleives that practice makes perfect so she has decided to talk to everyone and anyone without being embarrassed or offended when people correct her. As for the misinformation being spread, she has started to raise her hand and her voice more during the meetings and makes sure that if she sees or hears something amiss that she corrects it immediately.

All-in-all her integration period was not as scary or stressful as she thought it'd be. In fact it actually turned out to be a lot of fun. Our volunteer has traveled, experimented with new recipes, made more friends and has started to accumulate quite an impressive collection of capulana clothing.

At the end of the integration period her roommate/ fairy god-mother, who helped make her adjustment to life in Inharrime and as a Health Volunteer in general pain free left to return home. Thus begins the next chapter in the life of our heroine-living alone in a foreign country!

Stay tuned...

Ate Logo!

The Post-PC Life (musing...)

I believe it's never too early to plan for the future. In fact I knew I would join the Peace Corps after graduating from college when I was 15 years old!

With that said, I feel it's time for me to begin to study for the GRE, research test dates and locations and also begin thinking about which schools and programs might interest me once my service ends.

I know that I want to continue in the International Relations field, but  I also want to focus on health...

Here's what I'm thinking so far:
-Master's of Public Health
-Master's of International Development and Administration
*Mailman School of Public Health @ Columbia U
*Johns Hopkins School of Public Health
*U Penn-Public Health
~US Public Health Commissioned Corps
~World Health Organization
~USAID
All this may change but for now it's good to at least have my dreams and aspirations written down in plain site.

My future is in God's hands and from this angle it looks BRIGHT!

Five Things: I miss from Home (Vol. 2, Ed. 1)

#1. Dryer sheets- (weird I know) I really miss having clean smelling, soft clothes. It's definitely something I took for granted in the States.

#2. "Sleeping In"-It is really impossible for me to sleep  past 6:30, 7am at the latest! I guess it doesn't matter really considering the fact that I am usually in bed by 9pm most nights. Even on weekends!!

#3. Indoor plumbing-(obviously right?) or more specifically indoor bathrooms. I have graduated from my Xi-XI bucket upon arriving at site and now make at least one nightly trek all the way outside to the latrine, where I proceed to squat over a cement hole...you can imagine how difficult this is during times of tummy trouble or drowsiness. Needless to say I've never miss an Amerian Standard throne so much!

#4. Driving- aside from being able to go wherever I want, whenever I want, I really miss traveling comfortably. Whether that be while driving or riding with someone else-or even (my mother won't believe i'm saying this) using public transportation in the States. Taking chapas (the Mozambican equivalent of a bus, which more accurately resemble NYC dollar vans) is dangerous, smelly (deodorant just aint a priority here) and crowded. Riding in the back of Pick-ups can be fun but isn't really that comfortable either. I really also truly miss taking road trips or just cruising around town singing along with the radio as the top of my lungs.

#5. Getting "Gussied Up"- I think of all the things I miss most about home, I miss getting dressed up and going out. I used to take great pride and pleasure in painting my face, doucing on perfume and getting all decked out and looking (and feeling) pretty. I miss lipgloss, smoky eyes, high heels, short skirts and sexy tops. I miss going out to clubs with my girls, going to the movies with friends and having cocktails and lavish meals with my mother and her friends. I have already planned to use a considerable (well maybe not a huge amount) amount of my readjustment allowance to revamp, replenish and restock my wardrobe and train case.

Melhorar-acao?

Em ordem a melhorar meu Portugues eu decidi' que hei'-de comecar a escrever pelo menos um "blog" (nao sei a palavra em Portugues lol) cada mes.
Eles provavalmente ha-de ser muita corta e simples mas penso que ele vai ajuda-me muito.
E' emgrassada como posso viver e falar com pessoas diariamente que fala Portugues e ainda sento que eu falo bem.
Como outras linguas que eu tenho aprendid (ou pelo menos tentei a aprender) eu escrevo e leio melhor do que posso falar.
Tambem, tenho cemecado a ajudar meu vizinho (um voluntario de Japao) e um amigo dele aprender Ingles. Espero que posso melhorar meu Portugues como eles melhoram o Ingles deles.

Havemos-de Ver!!

Ate a Proxima!!

Belleza!!!!

It's amazing how a simple bucket bath accompanied by a full body, homemade, sugar scrub and a change of your finger and toe nail polish can give you a whole new outlook on life. Some people like to use being a Peace Corps Volunteer as a an excuse to let themselves go-higiene wise- I feel the exact opposite. To be completely honest I feel so much cleaner and refreshed here after a bucket bath than I think I ever did from a hot shower. Now, I realize that my judgement could be clouded by the fact that I have actually taken a hot shower in about a month (the weekend after swear-in -Aug 12th) but it's true! When I can take the time to heat up three or four kettle's worth of water and wash away the days dirt and sweat, the week's insecurities, fumbles with the language and/or whatever other stressors, I really truly feel clean, fresh, and rejuvenated. I also really thank the girls from Moz 14 and 15 who suggested that I bring nail polish and "smell good" (as my Godmom calls it lol). Spritzing on a little Black Amethyst or Exotic Couconut body spray and giving yourself a new set of brightly vernished hands and feet are like putting hot fudge, whipped cream and ten cherries on top of my Peace Corps sundae!

I mean I have always enjoyed getting my nails done and applying all the other products generally associated with being a "girlie-girl",  but when it's easy to take pampering yourself for granted after long HOT days, struggling to understand what is going on at your orgs or with your colleagues when everything is spoken in a language that you didn't spend ten intensive weeks learning ((But I Digress--i'll save that for a different post)). So in an effort to create a regular routine, stay "pretty" and to maintain my sanity I think I will allow myself a pamper day every week. Whehter it be a full body sugar scrub, repainting my nails, washing and retwisting my hair or even just plucking my eyebrows (WOOF! it's been a struggle lol) I will do whatever it take to keep myself happy. I've even begun a regular exercize regimine so I'm excited about seeing those results.
I'm determined to put all this free time to good use and to emerge from this 27 month cacoon a beautiful, healthy, happy, multi-lingual Peace Corps DIVA!!

As always my lovelies!!!
                                                            ~Ate Logo Meninos!!~

Aviso!!!

• Taking one's own advice is probably the hardest thing to do. For whatever reason, it is nearly impossible to encourage, persuade, dissuade or counsel yourself...well it is for me anyway.

In a recent conversation with one of my closest friends here in Moz, where I was the listening ear and eventually the counsellor, I realized that the stresses she was having were eeriely similar to my own and yet the advice I was giving to her sounded like a foreign language to me.
We were both dealing with feelings of inadequacy as is related to being "replacement volunteers"-meaning we are taking on the role of a volunteer that is preparing to end their service- and not really fitting-in with our communities, and the everpresent homesickness.  In response to her concerns, I said the following (and in writing this I hope that these suggestions with be clear to me as well):
Blaze your own path-don't try to fill the previous volunteers shoes. Put on your thinking cap, pack your new, different, fresh ideas and make your mark on your new community. Each volunteer is different and our individuality and varied personal experiences are what make this cultural exchange possible.

• Remember why you're here-joining the Peace Corps is a big decision and one that (hopefully) you took a long time to consider. You are here to "change" the world-or the very least your community--and in turn to learn more about yourself. These 27 months are just a drop in the bucket compared to all the lasting memories and experiences you will have when it's all done.

• Keep this whole thing in perspective-think about what else you would be doing right now? The job market (in the States) isn't the greatest. The mention of school loans, rent, phone bills, car notes, etc. alone are enough to cause many 20 somethings to retreat to the hills or in this case Mozambique. Remember that while you might be "roughing it" right now when you go back home you'll be in a much better position to take on the all that life in the developed world has to offer. You'll be a few dollars richer, your resume will be virtually "rejection proof", you'll be fluent-ish lol in another language (or two if you've learned a local language), you're stories of Peace Corps life will be a hit at any party or social gathering, the list of pros goes on and on. 

• Two years really isn't as long as it sounds-already we've been at site a month, and in-country for nearly 4! It doesn't seem like it as the days drag on but time is already flying! So, stop watching the clock and counting the days before you miss an opportunity to really enjoy all that this place and program has to offer. Set little goals for yourself and plan trips to occupy your time and to give yourself something to look forward to every week, month or year. 

*BONUS* T.I.M. This Is Mozambique!!-We've hit the Peace Corps lottery! Mozambique is an amazing country with awesome beaches, games reserves and some of the coolest PCVs anywhere! Take advantage of all the awesome things that Moz has in store like swimming with the largest fish in the world to learning how to play a timbila (a xylophone like instrument). Also, take time to visit some of the surrounding countries. It's amazing how a couple days away from site can rejuvenate you and give the energy to press on for one more week.

So in closing, it's not all bad. You just have to keep these few tips in mind and a prayer on your lips and your service will be a Peace of Cake ;)

As always meus amigos!!

I Come With Peace!!                              ~Ate Logo!!!~

The Beginning of Service Jitters...de novo (again)

On August 13th, 2011, I swore-in and officially became a PCV. I looked and felt beautiful (I think I'm allowed to toot my own horn once in a while considering I've been taking bucket baths for the past three months!) and everything was wonderful. I along with my fellow Moz 16ers stayed in a fabulous hotel for the weekend and had a great time!

That Sunday (the 15th), my nerves set in again, because that night I was to meet my counterparts. These would become my co-workers and confidants for the next two years...it was almost like meeting my host family for the first time again. Needless to say I had nothing to worry about, as both my counterparts were very friendly. Over the next two days we took part in Supervisor's Conference where they learned about the Peace Corps, it's policies and what they should from them, and also we discussed a little bit about what my counterparts wanted me to help them with.

The following Wednesday (the 16th) I, along with both of my counterparts (I was placed with two different orgs) and two other Moz 16ers were shuttled off to our sites.

At about 4 in the afternoon, I arrived in Inharrime and met my new roommate, two sitemates and two other volunteers from Inhambane Province. I was nervous and excited and anxious and tired and happy all at the same time! That night we talked and got to know each other a little bit of some cervejas and some really delicious Pad Thai (pause for Elyse's laughter...).

So here it is the 26th, about a week and a half later. I've met with both my orgs a few times and actually already gave a mini training on Cholera (I'll post about that experience soon). My roommate has been great! She's introduced me to all the important people in town, including all her favorite vendors in the market and I think that we get along really well. I have met most of the Activistas (basicly community health volunteers) and Peer Educators with whom I will be working most closely with over these next two years.

I start my day at around 9 and am pretty much done by 1:30...I'll definitely enjoy all the free time, but it also makes over-thinking things, worrying and feeling homesick very easy to do. Even though, these feelings are not new (as I've gone through this before just 10 weeks ago while living with my host family) and at least I speak better Portuguese now so at least that's one less thing to worry about, but I guess it's now sinking in that this is in fact my home for the next two years (I'll post pics soon). I know that in no time I'll be feeling right at home and comfortable with my surroundings--at least I hope so--

I'll keep you all posted!

Ate Logo!!

Landmines & Cyclones??? 26/07/2011

So apparently, there are still active landmines and unexploded ordinances left over from the civil and even colonial wars!!

We found this out in a recent Safety and Security session (with the always entertaining Alfredo). While explaining the history of these mines the Safety and Security Coordinator pulls up a slide with tips for how to handle yourself in the event that you have just stepped on a mine. Basically, we are to keep our feet/weight on said mine, stay calm, call the authorities and lastly NOT PANIC!!

At this point, I was completely dumbfounded and knew for certain that I could not guarantee that I would stay completely calm if I suspect that I have just happened upon a landmine of all things!!

~Uma coisa boa (a good thing) that came out of it though is that we (Moz 16) have a new catch phrase:
"If you didn't drop it, don't pick it!!"

The second part of this presentation was about cyclones. So according to the SSC cyclones are really dangerous, because they bring a lot of rain, and mud and also crocodiles and hippopotamuses???

So, because he thought (I guess) we weren't taking his warnings seriously enough-the SSC brings up a picture of a crocodile, then another on of the croc sem (without) skin AND THEN another picture of human remains that were found inside of the aforementioned croc.

A bit EXTREME nao e??

Yea I know!!! You can imagine our reaction!



                                                                   

Preservatives Added?

One day I was sitting at lunch with my host mom quietly enjoying a heaping helping of spaghetti and chicken when suddenly my mae turns to me and asks "usam preservativos nos Estados Unidos?" (Do they use preservatives in the US?).

Believing that I had understood her question correctly-and given the fact that we were eating- I confidently responded "sim, em comida" (Yes, in food). Mae gave me the most puzzling look, shook her head in disagreement and repeated her question. This time I responded "sim, algum pessoas usa preservativos em comida" (Yes, some people use preservatives in food)--rephrasing my answer thinking maybe I had said the wrong thing before.

Finally realizing that I did not understand what she was saying she sent my sister into her room to grab a pamphlet about safe-sex and preventing HIV. As I began to read, my eyes grazed over the phrase "usa preservativos" attached to an illustration of a condom. Completely shocked and frankly a little embarrassed at my poor comprehension, I exclaimed "Oh condoms?!" Minha mae simply nodded her head and said "sim" in an almost exasperated tone, as if to say "finally!" LOL

I went on to explain that yes, we do in fact use condoms in the States and that "preservatives" are put into food to keep it from going bad. After that she and I carried on a good, allbeit basic, conversation about the use of preservativos to prevent HIV and other STDs. I ever found out that the local Catholic congregation approved and even promoted the used of condoms for safe-sex.

                              ~Ahh the adventures in learning a foreign langugae LOL~

Ate Logo!!!

We're Almost There!! 09/07/2011

So it's the end of week five (now the beginning of week 9, but hey I don't have steady internet!), which means that in another five week myself and my fellow Moz-16ers will swear-in and officially be Peace Corps Volunteers.

In a few more weeks I will leave Namaacha and embark on my two year journey at my site (Inharrime!!!). I will leave the comfort and security of my host family to move into my own house in a new and strange location. So I know now that I will be living with a Moz-14er who will be COSing (Closing of Service) in either November or December, which I'm actually really excited about.

A couple of weeks from now I will be expected to take all the knowledge I've acquired during PST and begin work with my organizations. So many questions come to mind as I consider this: Are my language skills good enough?  Do I really know enough about HIV and other health issues? Am I really ready to live and work and possibly hang out with ONLY Mozambicans???

These first few weeks flew by. It seems like just weeks ago I was hanging out with my family and friends in Philly. It feels like like it was only days ago that I first met the other members of Moz-16 and now we feel like old friends. It must have been mere hours ago that I arrived in Namaacha and could barely communicate with my familia hospedeira (host family)- using hand gestures to communitcate. Now I can have a full (still very basic) conversations and am even writing compositions on health related topics entirely in Portuguese!!

I guess the saying that "time flies when you're having fun" is true-- as so much of my life had seemed to go by in a flash. And, although there have been tough times, I have had many laughs and made many friends. I look forward to improving my language skills and building many more relationships over the next two years.

If these first few weeks and months have gone by this quickly I can only imagine how fast these next few years will pass. Before I know it I could be back in the States sipping margaritas with sugar on the rim and gossiping about the latest celebrity scandal with my friends and family.

 I need to remember to take a deep breath and live each day for what it's worth. I have wanted to be in the Peace Corps since I was in high school. I'm finally her and I want to really make a difference and get all I can from this experience.

So while I can't wait to see my family and friends again, I must keep in mind that this is my home now so I might as well enjoy it!

I must live my life Pouco a Pouco, Dia a Dia-Little by Little, Day by Day

Ate....

Que Bizarro

Something very strange happened to me the other day...

I had explained to my host mother that I would be learning a local language and that it would probably be the one she speaks (Changana). So that evening she began to teach me some simple greetings. Curious and eager to learn more, I ask my mae if Changana was a written language? She replied "sim" and sent my little sister into her room to get her bible written completely in the local language.

My sister and I both attempted (I say we both because she understands and speaks a little but cannot read it) to decipher the words from a passage that I was able to figure was located in the book of Timothy.

Obviously, I could kind of sort of read and pronounce the words on the page but couldn't understand them. My neighbor (who is also one of my favorite people in Namaacha--affectionately called "Vovo" or grandmother in Changana) had me read the words to her, the she translated it into Portuguese and I was able to understand it in English!!

It was such and awakening experience for me. I was so impressed with myself lol.

**OK so it wasn't really that bizarre, but at that instant I did have goosebumps. Another reminder of how blessed I am...

Gracas a Deus!!

5 Words I NEVER Used Before Coming to Mozambique

#1 "Chega"- the Portuguese words for "enough". In the States I could never get enough and I could always have more, but here I recognize the scarcity of things so I rarely take a second helping and I try to conserve as many resources (i.e. water) as possible.

#2 "Xi-Xi"-loosely translated, it means "pee-pee". Let me just say that everything in my life is scheduled around my bladder these days. I have to make sure I know where the bathroom is at all time and you could almost set you clock by the frequent trips to my balde during the course of EVERY SINGLE NIGHT!!

....which brings me to my next WINUBCM...

#3 LARIUM-for the life of me, I will never understand  why they (PC chefes) would put us on a long-term (meaning the whole 2+ years) Malaria prophylaxis whose side effects not only include increased/frequent urination, but also Hallucinations and Nightmares!!!!

                                                                But I Digress
#4 "Bom Dia" (and it's alternates depending on time of day)-I never really used to say "good morning, afternoon or night" to people in the states. People are usually so consumed with their own lives, ipods, blackberries, whaterver that they don't really ever recognize the existence of other people. Here in Mocambique people (criancas -children- especially LOL) get offended if you don't comprimentar-the verb to greet- them when you see them. It goes deep too!! Mocambicanos want to know how you are feeling, and how your day is going, where you are walking to--all with in the span of a 5 second cursory interaction in the rua-street-. Formality is very important here.

#5 "Gato Preto"- it's a brand of Peanut Butter imported from South Africa and it is DELICIOUS!! I never realized how much I liked peanut butter until I came to Africa. It's quickly becoming one of my favorite foods. It could just be because it's a reminder of home, but Black Cat is probably the best manteiga de amendoim I've ever had.

**Update**
OMG I just discovered that they have the crunchy kind too!!! **BOUGHT SOME***

Site Selections!!!!

SITE PLACEMENTS!!!
This just in!!!

After six and a half gruling weeks of entensive language training and exhaustive Tech/Core sessions, I along with the rest of my fell Moz 16'ers have finally received our site selections. This means that as of today (*written on 20/07/2011) we all know where/with whom we will be living for the next two years.
Thinking back to just a few short weeks ago, it's funny to think about how truley fast time flies. It's seems like only a few weeks ago (well...literally it was like almost two months ago) we all made our first semi-awkward introductions and set off on this amazing adventure together. Here we are, less than 50 days into our training and subsequent service, already missing each other's company and/or celebrating that fact that some of us who have grown close are only a few short hours away from one another.
So without further consternation and much more adeu I finally, after many many many days, nights and weeks of guessing, know the location where the next phase of my life will be set. In my interviews with Christie ( the Assistant Courntry Director) I expressed my desire to work with in a joint placement (meaning work with two organizations)--one possibly being a Faith Based Org--and of wanting to continue my work with your girls and PLWHA (People Living With HIV/AIDS. Based on my experience, I believe I have been place in the best place for me and I cannot wait to begin my work with ICAP (an International NGO run by Columbia University) and with a local CBO called Tivikela and also, from what I hear a rather large REDES group.
I wasn't sure at first, but after talking to the trainees that visited my new home I am really excited about living and working in....*wait for it*...
...
                                                                       ...
                                                                                                                                                                                   ...
Inharrime, the captial of the Province of Inhambane along the South Eastern coast of Mozambique!!!!
I will be replacing a Moz 14'er who will be COS'ing (Close of Service-ing) in November, and since I will be arriving in mid-August we will be roommates for about three months. I'm excited about the possibility of having guidance during the very important and overly-stressed "integration period" (a volunteer's first three months at site). I have gotten word from some pretty reliable sources that the volunteer I will be living with is really cool and that my house and site are both really nice. I even heard that I am just minutes from a lagoon and only a short trip from some of the nices beaches in the whole country.

In the Pit...latrine 14/06/2011

Since we've been in Namaacha I've been raving about how I haven't had any stomach troubles. In fact, I really have had to "go" but once since we've been here.
IT finally hit me :(
Maybe, it's because I've been trying to hold it...
OR
Maybe it's because I've been exercizing and eating more fruit and veggies...
WHATEVER it is
I need to get control of it. "Downloading" (Thanks Elyse lol) in a virtual hole in the ground IS NOT fun. Nor is it easy, when you are trying to avoid putting your behind on the "seat" [which is really just four cement blocks surrounding the opening of the hole in the ground in my case].
** Speacial shouts out to my God Mother (Hey Peaches lol) who insisted that I bring a portable/purse sized can of disenfectant spray.
^You better believe I sprayed EVERY INCH of that case de banho before I postitioned myself [I discovered that putting my feet on either side of my body atop the cinder blocks works best] over the latrine (<-- I guess I had better get used to this word o_O).

I keep having to remind myself that this is what I signed up for!
I have never missed an American Standard toilet so much!
BUT!
I might get used to it...~who knows!?~...
(at this point) This is only like my 10th day in Mocambique LOL.

I will say that I'm glad I got it out of the way. My aim (ew I know :{ lol )isn't that great but at least now I know how it works LOL
Luckily, we have training sessions in buildings with "real" toilets (I'll use this term loosely as they don't actually have automatic flush and you have to dump a bucket of water at just the right angle to make things flow) so when I can help it, I wait until I get to these places and handle my business there. I know I won't always  be able to do this, and that someday probably very soon I will have to revisit a latrina...but I'm gonna try my DAMNED-EST!!

I'll keep you posted!

ATE LOGO

**Update**
So about four weeks later I got a stomach virus-dirrhea included-and became very well reaquainted with the latrine and every other toilet I came in contact with...
^ It was bound to happen LOL

On a related note... 17/06/2011

That last entry about perception got me thinking about another "P" word that has been tossed around a lot lately...
...PERSPECTIVE
In a recent Stress Management 101 session we had recently, a fellow PCT (Peace Corps Training) reminded us all to keep things in perspective. She suggested that whenever we get down about our current circumstances that we think back to a time in the States when we felt the same way. In doing this we would be reminded that one can have a bad day anywhere and not to blame these feelings on Moz or the people here. She also suggested that we remember that we were able to get over it.
In a separate conversation I had with the members of my language group where the topic of perspective was raised, we all agreed that after this experience (living and interacting with host families and our service to follow) we would all be able to roll with anything.
One of my colleagues had been having an especially hard day, after a run-in with her host mother's sister-in-law concerning the cleanliness of her clothes (or the lack there of in her opinion). The woman commented on how my friend couldn't have washer a particular shirt correctly because it still had stains. What my friend failed to communicate (or just didn't care to) was that it was an old shirt and that she only wore it to sleep. The woman, who has probably been hand washing her "roupa" to a perfect shine since she was a crianca, naturally assumed that minha amiga just didn't know how to wash clothes properly.
My friend's reaction was that it didn't really matter because it was a night shirt and therefore not meant to be seen by anyone. She also remarked to the rest of our language group (all two of us LOL) that she didn't care if her night shirt was dirty or what her "aunt" had to say about it because this woman (in not so many words...) basically bathed where she crapped.
In a strange way this was her way of keeping things in perspective. The woman didn't like the way she lavar'd her roupa and minha amiga didn't appreciate having to clean her body where others relieved themselves.
I think in this situation we just have to keeps things in their proper context and understand that no one thing or place is better than another it's all what you make it.

BE R E S L I E N T!

Keep it MOVING!!

ATE LOGO!!!

Percepcao

                                                                "Percepcao" 16/6/2011
                         Perception
                                                    Perception

Perception

How one is perceived is Moz has become a recurring theme throughout PST so far.
Almost everyday we are reminded to respect the customs of our host country so as to avoid being negatively perceived or not accepted at all.
One would think that this is common sense, but when you are living and/or working with people who get in your business or ask probing or personal questions or try to tell you what to do, what to wear, or where to be and when and you are 22 frickin' years old! [BUT I DIGRESS]. But we want to integrate and make the most of this experience right? RIGHT!
SO, for these next few weeks (and the 24 months after that *sigh*) I will suck it up and do as I am told (within reason of course...cuz I'm grown!) so as not to be perceived negatively. I want to be able to gain the trust of respect of the people in my host country. WIth that said, I will adhere to the cultural norms and watch for social cues, but I will always be ME and -as soon as my language skills improve- I will always stand up for myself and for what I believe in.

ATE LOGO!

Potty Poetry Vol. 1 Ode to my Xi-Xi

Oh my, I have to Pee

I hop out of bed

and grab my

"xi-xi"

Balde de xi-xi

how you've saved me...

from having to pee in the dark

at night, outside, when it's scary

Little bucket, beside my bed

my friends and family

would probably dread

but if they know

what I know

they would use you

when they have to GO

<3

Randomness (13/06/2011)

SOME-

                 TIMES 

                                     yOu 

                                               jUsT 

                                                                     NEED 


                                                                                   A 

                                                                                         GOOD

                                                                                                      HUG
~to remedy this me and some other members of Moz 16 have started a Hug Club lol.


I Come with PEACE

Reflection 13/06/2011

Today (Monday, June 13th or Segunda-feira, treze de Junho as we say in Portuguese) marks the beginning of my second week of Pre-Service Training and my ninth day in Namaacha.

I'm enjoying my time here and am learning much, but there have been and are definitely some tough times. I spoke with my mother and twin brother on the phone last night it instantly made me sad. I was happy to hear their voices, but it made the separation even that much more difficult. All I can do is try to keep in mind that I chose this for myself and I have to constantly remind myself that after these three months--and the 24 that follow that I will be so enriched.

Sitting outside, as I write this, admiring the beautiful scenery I can't help but feel at one with the world, myself and this task I have taken on...

Remembering to be flexible seems to be a recurring theme in my life. I must constantly remind myself that I am not at home and I can't just hop into my car and go where I please. Going to the bathroom is often a wake-up call for me. Taking a bath by head lamp at night, hunched over a "bacia" reminds me of how truly blessed I am and I thank God every night for allowing me to be here and to be able to fulfill a dream I've had for many years.

Another principle that I am learning to adopt in my new life as a Peace Corps trainee and as a resident of Namaacha is to find pleasure in the small things. In the states it is so easy to sweat the small stuff, but when you are thrust into this world it's hard to imagine being angry about missing a movie or other trivial things when you see how hard people work just to prepare a simple meal.

I see now what our trainers were talking about when they said that Mozambicans take great pride in their appearances. They enjoy looking good, and working hard to improve their lives. I was speaking to my "Avo" [grandmother], who is really my neighbor, and she was explaining that it takes a lot to make a meal, but she didnt mind because she knows that everything she eats is natural and without chemicals. We are so quick to grab "fast food" and are steadily gaining weight while these people we consider less fortunate are enjoying the freshest fruits and veggies often right out of their own yards.

As I sit here and reflect on my journey thus far I begin to recognize that Pre-Service Training (PST) really has two parts: on one hand we are in Portuguese lessons and Community Development sessions all day, and on the other in the evening we are learning customs and recipes and other valuable lessons on basic and organic happiness.

So far I've learned how to prepare couve (a leafy green similar to collards) and have come to fall in love with my family (and also with the cute little chickens that run around everywhere). I have a basic grasp of beginner , conversational Portuguese and have realized that "winter" in Africa is really just a word LOL.

Ate Logo and as always I Come with PEACE

Important Matters

Tonight my daddy took me out to dinner. It was our last daddy-daughter date in a while and it was very necessary. We were able to open up a line of communication that I think we were tip-toeing around for a very long time now. Although all of my question weren't answered I was able to get from him some information that I needed to be able to move on and work on myself.

I've always known that my dad loved me, but seeing him cry tonight really brought it home. I'm not sure if he knows it or now, but he has been a really good dad. To my mother he night not have been the greatest husband, and my brothers of course have their own issues with him, but to me he's been a great father. He has supported me, loved me, defended me, entertained me. I love him and will always love him.  I'm a daddy's girl to the core and I don't think that will ever change. I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a spoiled brat and he helped make me that way. 

~Just thought you should know dad!!

I COME WITH LOVE! 

STRESS!!

It's almost mid-night on my last night in my native DC. Tomorrow evening I will be traveling to Philadelphia to hang out with some friends before I begin my Staging at the beginning of next week. This will be the last night that I sleep in my own bed, the last time I am sitting in my room around all of my wordly possessions. 

At the same time I am also attempting to compact two years worth of clothing, toiletries and other necessities into 80lbs of luggage and I am stressing out! I over pack for a weekend trip so I have no idea right now HOW I'm going to pull this one off. I have made lists and piles of the things I think I'll need. I know that I'm probably being a little excessive, but I figure that it's better to be safe than sorry right? Right....(trying to convince myself lol)

I have been really blessed to have friends and family who have helped my tremendously. I sent out a packing list and people began sending and bringing things over. It's funny how you never know how people really feel about you until something drastic happens. It's not that I didn't feel loved, it was just never as apparent as it is now. 

So this is one of many thank yous I will write from now until my service is over.

                                                      ** Thank You**

                                            ~to all of my family, friends, family friends, church family, friends of friends and everyone else who has prayed, given to and helped me thus far. You will never know how truly appreciative I am or how blessed I am to have all of you in my life. 

~As always my lovelies~                          I COME WITH PEACE@

Some mo' Portugese for you!!!

Today's lesson will be on salutations and basic conversation.


Helllo= Ola!

How are you? = Como estas?

Fine, thank you. = Bem, obrigado (male)/ obrigada (female)

And you sir/ma'am = e o senhor/ e a senhora

Nice to meet you = Muito prazer

What is your name? = Como se chama?

My name is ______ = Chamo-me

Where are you from? = De onde e'?

I'm from the United States = Sou dos Estados Unidos

Do you speak English? = Falas ingles?

Yes = Sim

No= Nao

I speak Portuguese = Falo portuges

 *******************************Termina******************************************
This lesson was brought to you by the letter M and the color Green

Until next time cool kids

                                                         ~I come with PEACE~

Hair Apparent?

Bon dia mis amigos!

It's about a month and a half from my departure date and i'm still not totally ready! lol  I have a packing list and an idea of what I want to bring but I just really haven't gotten around to it, but it's definitely time to get it together.

I'll get to the packing later though! THIS post is all about hair!

So I have had natural (non-chemically treated) hair for a little over six years now and I must say it took me a little while to get used to it. I had to learn a lot about my hair like what products worked best, how often to wash and condition it and also what styles looked good and which ones don't.

I've gotten so used to washing and deep conditioning my hair AT LEAST once a week and changing up the style sometimes twice a week. With this big move coming up and there being a possibility that I won't have access to all the amenities that I'm used to I have to begin thinking about what to do with this mop on my head lol.

*As I write this I wonder how many Peace Corps Volunteers have had to make similar decisons?*

I've been thinking long and hard about how to deal with this hairy situation (get it?? LOL).At first my plan was just to wear my hair in an afro and maybe find someone to braid it for me every now and again.

THEN, (during a stress induced mood swing) I thought about chopping it all off and rocking a baldy...

After realizing that in order to keep my hair cut short I'd either have to learn to cut it myself and thus bring a set of clippers with me or find a barber in_____________. Not too thrilled with either of those options so I scraped that idea.

Recently I dyed, retwisted and roller set my "aunt's" (<--You know how we do lol) locs and I that got me thinking...maybe I could loc my hair. I mean I already two strand twist my own hair regularly. How hard could it be to retwist my own locs. So me being the  naturally inquisitive person that I am, I went on my second favorite research tool after wikipedia--youtube and started looking at styling and maintenance videos. It looks super easy and locs can actually styled in lot's of pretty, creative ways.

My initial hesitation to locing when I first went natural was that it was so permanent and at the time I liked to experiment with my hair. I'm still very adventurous with hair but at present practicality is my main concern.

Right...locs. I think lcos could work. I'll keep you all posted, because knowing me I might change my mind in a second.

Later Gators!

                                                          ~I Come With PEACE~

Validation!!

Now I'm not usually one who cares what people think, because someone's always got something to say and it is very rarely something nice so why bother! I digress, but very recently I got back into contact with the  woman who inspired my decision to join the Peace Corps and she told me how proud she was of me and even gave me a few pointers on what to bring and how to better adapt to my surroundings (Tip #1 bring toys for the kids lol), which I haven't thought about before but will definitely do now. You know PEACE loves the kids! She also suggested I bring some comfort snacks (those were packed before my clothes were lol).

She and her husband, another RPCV, (they met during their service---*secretly crosses fingers* but i'll post more about that later) currently live in Durban, South Africa which is only a hop, skip and a slight jump from my host country. She has already invited me to come visit them. I will most definitely be taking her up on that offer!

As I stated in the beginning of this post, I generally don't care what people think of my, but her approval means the world to me. It's always nice when you can fulfill your dream but it's even better when you can that you've got the full support of those who inspire you.


As always my loves! I Come With PEACE           *smooches*

Adeus Glam Princess. Ola' Desert Diva!! PC

So a few weekends ago my friends and I went to the mall. As I watched them sort through countless frilly sleeveless tops and search among adorable cute skirts I was suddenly struck by the realization that I will no longer a) have these moments with my friends *inserts sad face* but that b) I won't really have any need for brightly colored tube tops  or tight mini skirts.
        Because I will be serving in the Peace Corps and therefore representing my country I am supposed to project a modest appearance. According to my packing list it is recommended that I bring along a few long skirts, tailored, pressed slacks and sturdy sandals (a.k.a "ugly sandals" in my book), and comfortable boots or walking shoes. Couple that with long sleeved blouses and "neat" t-shirts and I will be "frump girl". You can probably FORGET about make-up, manis and pedis!!!
        
 Which sucks because I have spent a lot of time, energy and money into keeping my style current and hip (if I say so myself). I love getting all dressed up and glammed up!! Now I'm not totally opposed to a pious appearance. I have already made the transition from acrylic tips (which, I might add, I have kept up faithfully since I was 15 years old!!) to regular manicures, but even with that I repaint my nails every week. I just really don't know how this is gonna turn out.

Well that's not entirely true...

As my mother and god-mother have assured me, a true Diva carries her "divatude" everywhere! So I have decided to use my missionary skills and "flow". I'm going to modify my glamminess....slightly lol.

I'll go along with this dress code but there will plenty of Diva flair!

On the bright side however, I was told that the people in my host country do enjoy dressing up for nights out on the town and special events. Which will justify the cute, frilly dresses I have stashed in the bottom of my suitcase! lol

When life gives you ugly brown lemons I say brew up some lemonade and sip through a fabulous swirly straw!

This living a modest life will be a Peace of Cake!

As always my lovelies!

~I Come with PEACE~

The Guessing Game!

Ola' Amigos!

As you all know, I will be packing my bags and heading to Africa with the Peace Corps in just a few short months but what a lot of you don't know is WHERE exactly I will be going. 

I thought it would be fun to have people guess! My friends and a few family members refuse to humor me. But being the headstrong, fun-loving  diva that I am, I still aint telling!

So, I will be sending out clues periodically leading up to the day of my trunk party. The person or persons who guess correctly or come the closest to guessing the right location will win a prize.

A few posts ago I gave a HUGE hint (you'll have to go back and find it) but here's one more:

                              **My future host country gained it's independence in 1975**

                                          PUT YOUR THINKING CAPS ON!!!

Since I love you I'll give you one more (for now):

            **My future host country borders 6 countries including Swaziland and Zimbabwe**

GET TO GUESSING!!

More clues to come!

~I Come With Peace~

 

Your first Portuguese lesson- the weather

This dreary semi torrential weather has inspired my lesson for today.

Today we will be discussing the weather.

When you want to ask a Portuguese speaker :What's the weather forecast? You should say "Quais sao as previsoes do tempo?"

If it's a rainy day out like it is here today you would say "Esta' um dia de chuva" or It's rainy.

So go out in the rain and impress someone with your Portuguese skills!

Until Next time mis amigos

~I Come with PEACE~

A short introduction and a few instructions

Ola'! Meu nome e' A Peace of Cake and welcome to my blogspot.

I'm not exactly new to the blogging world, but this time I am serious about it. My intention is to add a post or two everyday leading up to my departure for my Peace Corps service and to update as much as possible while I'm away. This will be a way for me to sort of vent some of my frustrations/jitters and to also express how I'm feeling in general. I will post about a little bit of everything from my preparation for service to how fast/diet is going lol.

I fancy myself a comedian so I will probably be cracking a few jokes from time to time. I'm kind of a drama queen so you will more than likely also read some ranting and raving about whatever! I like to think that I am pretty organized so I will attempt to use tags and labels to categorizes my posts. For instance my posts which are  directly related to my Peace Corps service will be have "(PC)" somewhere in the title. My posts just about my highly random life will feature a "(G)" for general. Posts about how my "diet" is going will carry a "(D)" and so on and so forth. this one has no tag because it's just really an initial "how do you do".

Also! I am attempting to teach myself Portuguese (HINT!) which is the official language of my country of service so in doing so I will be sharing my new found knowledge with my readers! (see salutation at beginning of post)

So as you see I hope you find this blog entertaining, informative and insightful just like ME!

Until the next post my dears!

~I Come with Peace!

Let me start from the...early Middle(PC)

Here I am nearly four months from my departure date and as many would expect I'm nervous, buuuuuut not for the reasons you all might expect.

I'm sitting here on February, 27 2011, watching the Oscars, coming down from my latest bout with the monthly malaise, putting all the finishing touches on all of my pre-service paperwork and there is just so much on my mind. Almost most of which has nothing to do with the service I will soon be taking part in as a Peace Corps volunteer to....TBA.

**sidenote: So I know where I will be spending the next 27 months of my life, I just haven't told everyone yet. It's not that I don't want people to know it's just that I thought it'd be fun to have them guess. I don't know, I like fun and games but...others might not share my youthful sense of humor.*

Aaaanyhoo! So as I was saying. I'm sitting on my mom's bed watching people I don't really know accept awards in categories (like best soundtrack adapted from a foreign language film by an actress in a supporting role) that I don't really care about,  for movies I've never heard of, from an academy I will probably never be a member of, and I sit and am left alone with my own thoughts it becomes increasingly more difficult to find a moment's PEACE.

The more I sit and ponder what is to become of my life I just can't help but worry about how things might stay the same. (If that makes sense) Even as I write this, my mind is moving at a million miles per minute! Which as you all can imagine makes it that much more difficult to write a blog.

: : : : : : :So let me step back and collect my thoughts: : : : : : :

For starters, I'm worried about getting everything ready and settled before I leave. I'm trying so hard not to leave my mom with more assumed debt than is necessary, so in order to do that I have to continue to work at a job that I secretly despise even though I'm only given 15hrs a week at a measly $10 an hour! How they expect people to live I suppose my bosses really don't care. I also suppose that I could always just get another job, but then I remember that I have already put my application into 10 (count them TEN) job listings and have heard NOTHING back. Thankfully the  network that are my mother's friends came through (again) and I was able to pick up a little side job working with her previous employer. The only downside is that I have no idea how much I will be making, but at this point I really (however unfortunately) don't care. This late in the game it really doesn't even matter. Any dollar helps.
         Other than money, I also can't help but worry about my family. For as long as I can remember, my lot in life has been to watch after, take care of, lend money-time-energy-and-tears to those I have held closest to me. I am a worrier, it's only natural as a technical middle child I guess, but sometimes it gets annoying. I'm constantly worrying about whether my twin will get his life together and do right by not only his girlfriend and adopted child but by himself! I worry whether my older brother knows how much I truly admire and love him and if we'll really end up related to his perpetually grumpy girlfriend one day. I worry about my parents settling on an amicable separation and if they'll ever begin speaking to each other with kind words. I worry more specifically about my mother's health, wealth social and love life. I worry about my father's future. I'm even worried that my precious puppy "Boo" won't remember me when I return.  I'm afraid my friends will forget me. I'm afraid they'll go on with their lives and create all new inside jokes and memories. I'm worried I'll cry too much (as I'm tearing a little right now even as I write this) at the airport, on the plane, during my pre-service training. Or that no one will cry for me as I pack my bags, board the plane and fly far far away.

Silly things, I know and maybe it's just the nerves and feelings that usually accompany the day-to-day as one prepares to move thousands of miles away from everything they've ever known to spend over two years in a foreign country. Yet leaving isn't my most immediate concern...what I'm leaving behind is.

So here are my wishes for those persons, places, things I will be leaving behind:
*To my bills (school loan, car note, credit card, possibly my cell): I wish for you to be deferred, taken over by my mother (so be manageable!), paid off and possibly not exist at all. After all it's only money right? And so what if my credit is a little jacked up when I get back. I'll start all over again to rebuild it!
*To twin brother: I wish you all the luck in the world. I wish you god speed as you embark on the next journey in your life. May you become the man we all know you to be.
*To my older brother: I wish that you follow your dream and become the leader you've always been to me. I pray that you create your family and your empire and may it flourish. I also wish that you remember your old family in your new life.
*To my mother: My wish for you is simple, take care of yourself. Love yourself and LIVE for yourself. You have spent so much of your life taking care of others, now it's time for you to do you boo!
*To my father: My wish for you, much like our relationship, is a little more complex, but simply put I wish you the best. The best grades (because you WILL be getting that doctorate Mister!!), the best business deals, the best relationships with your sons, the best memories of your daughter and of the life we all shared together. I just want you to find your happy place and dwell in it. Make it yours and make it great.
*To my friends: Have fun. Live life and dance! Remember the good times we've shared, the hard times we've gotten over and the growing we've done together.

I love you all and even though I worry sometimes. I know GOD will see us all through.

Until next time my lovelies

~I come with PEACE~