Hidey-ho blog followers! Sorry I haven't written in so long! I was in a bit of a writing funk, and there seemed to be a lack of good stories to share. Luckily, I was involved in yet another ridiculous event the other day and will now try my best to convey the hilarity of it all...
After discussing my love for Ultimate and all things sports, my new friend/boss/bad-ass Indira set up a meeting with for me to start working with a local sports club. Now, Indira is unlike any Guyanese woman I have ever met. The first thing she asked me me when we met was “How do you like your men? I like 'em with a tight ass. Men with tight asses usually have big penises”. At that moment the skies opened and the sun shone down upon us and I knew, the way you know about a good melon, that this was a woman I could work with! Anyway, back to the meeting...
Indira picked me up and took me to meet with Tamesh, the president of the sports club. The meeting went swimmingly. We ate fresh guavas and papaya from Indira's garden and discussed the possibility of collaboration on multiple projects. After about an hour of stuffing my face with fruit and gaffing (the Guyanese term for chatting), Indira informed us that she had to rush to a funeral. We exchanged contact information and said goodbye to Tamesh.
We climbed into Indira's car and began reflecting on the meeting. Because I was so excited about the new possibility of work, it took me a little while to realize we were headed in the opposite direction of my house. I didn't want to interrupt our captivating conversation on empowering youth and decided to just go with the flow. Soon we pulled off the main road and parked in front of a house. When I saw multiple black clothing-clad people standing outside, I realized that Indira had decided to take me to the funeral with her.
I contemplated waiting in the car while she paid her respects, but the idea of sitting in a car in the stifling heat was much less appealing than attending a funeral of a man I did not know. So I stepped out of the car and followed Indira inside, completely regretting my decision to wear a flowery top with white pants. As if I don't already stand out enough with my red hair and pale skin, I'm the insensitive girl wearing white at a funeral.
Trying to be discreet, Indira and I search the area for seats, but because we've arrived fashionably late, there are hardly any left. Suddenly, Indira points to two seats at the very front. All eyes are on us as Indira leads the way down the aisle. The seats are staggered, one in front of the other. Indira sits in the one behind, forcing me to sit in the front. She whispers that she doesn't want to sit in front because it would give her heebie jeebies. As I turn around to face forward, I suddenly see what she meant. I am sitting front and center at my very FIRST open-casket funeral!
You know how when some people are really uncomfortable they start laughing? Apparently I'm one of those people. I was overcome with a fit of giggles while everyone around me was overcome with grief. Luckily I was able to put my head down and control my convulsions enough that no one noticed. When I was finally able to get ahold of myself, I sat quietly and listened his eulogy. The departed sounded like an amazing man, and although I'd never met him, he sure did look like a wonderful individual, laying there peacfully in his coffin, wearing his nicest suit.
After an hour of speeches, tears, music and prayer, the casket was closed. Everyone stood to follow as the coffin was carried to the graveyard. I began to join the procession when, luckily, Indira informed me she didn't want to attend the burial.
Love, Peace and Open-caskets(?)
Annie
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Travelin' Whoa-man!
Standing on the side of the main road, I wave down a mini-bus and take a deep breath, knowing it's the last bit of fresh air I'll have for a while. As I board the crammed bus, I am immediately greeted with “marnin!'” from all of the passengers. I return the friendly gesture with a nod and a smile. After searching for a while, I manage to find a seat at the very back of the bus, and am forced to squeeze myself between what looks like a Guyanese Mr. Clean, and a young couple whispering sweet nothings into each others ears. I manage to cram myself in the tiny space made available to me, and immediately begin sweating profusely. There is no place in Guyana that is as hot as a mini-bus. It's like a sauna, steamy with human sweat. As I try to free my arm to fan myself, I realize the bus has turned around, and my hopes of reaching New Amsterdam in a timely manner quickly dissolve. We're driving the opposite direction, and I'm a little confused. I ask Mr. Clean if this bus is indeed headed over the bridge and he assures me that it is, we just have to pick up a few more people to fill the bus. From where I'm sitting, the bus seems packed-full. But in Guyana, there's always room for more!
We begin making the rounds, traveling around Rosignol at an alarming speed, until the driver slams on the breaks, and the conductor yells out the window to prospective passengers “Bridge! Bridge! Over da bridge gyal/bai?!?!”. The moment the passerby shakes their head, we speed up again, no time to waste here folks. The yelling continues and soon, some one nods their head in agreement. The bus begins to slow and the conductor throws the sliding door open and jumps out of the still-in-motion bus. He hurriedly ushers the passenger on. Everyone greets him with a “marnin'!” and we somehow manage to shift and re-arrange ourselves to make room for our new addition. Before the door is shut, the bus is in motion again. We repeat the lurching, screeching, yelling, nodding, ushering, greeting and sweating until the driver is satisfied with the number of passengers on the bus. He finally turns the bus around, and I'm relieved to see that we are headed in the right direction! I see the bridge approaching, and am encouraged by the fact that the driver is rushing straight toward it. He screeches to a halt to pay the toll, and within seconds, we're off!! The wind is blowing and the cool breeze from the river is welcomed by our drenched, balmy bodies.
After managing to make it across the river safely, we encounter our next, and most challenging adventure. The road is surrounded by open fields on either side. It's a beautiful view, and I never tire of it. But with open fields, come loads of unpredictable livestock. The road is filled with cows, donkeys, pigs and goats, or what I like to call a “Guyanese obstacle course”. Each animal poses it's own challenge to the driver, and we are forced to put all of our trust in him to maneuver safely around these creatures. Cows, although large and hazardous due their size, are the easiest animal to avoid colliding with. They move so slowly that they are easy to avoid. Pigs, the most intelligent of the bunch tend to stay away from large, quickly moving objects. Donkeys seem to be oblivious to everything that is going on around them, and tend to just stand there (they often choose the middle of the road to mate) and look at you as though you're disturbing them... what asses! It's the goats that are the real challenge. They move quickly and haphazardly. It's very hard to judge where they will go. Sometimes, after crossing the road to safety, they'll dart back in front of the bus, forcing the driver to slam on his brakes in order to avoid making goat-jerkey. I've never seen something so meticulously beautiful as a mini-bus driver steering his way through that chaos. It takes extreme concentration, serious skill and the ability to react at a moments notice with little room for error. Luckily, these men drive this route multiple times daily, and I have nothing but faith in their ability to get their passengers through safely.
Once we get through the obstacle course, we approach the next adventure. We slow at the corner to drop off some passengers and are immediately bombarded with the cutest little children you ever did see trying to sell plantain chips. They reach in through every opening in the windows and practically throw the chips in your lap. No one can understand a word they're saying because their Creolese is so thick. But everyone smiles and greats them affectionately. I've never seen a child work so hard for so little, all the while smiling and laughing. I often buy some chips to reward them for the hard work. Whoever convinced these children to sell the chips knew they'd make a fortune, tugging at the heart strings of every single passenger. When everyone is finished buying their snack, and the driver realizes the children are out of harm's way, we speed off, leaving the children in the dust.
We continue on down the last stretch of our adventure and we're home free. The remainder of the drive is calm and peaceful, and everyone seems to be filled with a sense of comradeship for making it through the adventure alive. We come to the bus stop, exit safely, pay, and thank the driver. I hand him my plantain chips as a token of my appreciation.
I take this drive at least twice a month and each bus ride is similar. It's like a roller-coaster at Disneyland, only no-one ever throws up, and there are rarely snap-shots of the silly faces we made during the scariest moments (which is good, because I bet Mr. Clean looked terrifying).
I've come to the realization that a trip on a Guyanese mini-bus is quite representative of my experience here as a whole: the journey may be fraught with fear and doubt, but if you accept the adventure of it all, and have faith in people, you will always reach your destination safely and happily. And looking back on it, you'll be glad you did it all, even if it was the sweatiest, craziest time of your life :)
Peace, love and mini-buses,
Annie
We begin making the rounds, traveling around Rosignol at an alarming speed, until the driver slams on the breaks, and the conductor yells out the window to prospective passengers “Bridge! Bridge! Over da bridge gyal/bai?!?!”. The moment the passerby shakes their head, we speed up again, no time to waste here folks. The yelling continues and soon, some one nods their head in agreement. The bus begins to slow and the conductor throws the sliding door open and jumps out of the still-in-motion bus. He hurriedly ushers the passenger on. Everyone greets him with a “marnin'!” and we somehow manage to shift and re-arrange ourselves to make room for our new addition. Before the door is shut, the bus is in motion again. We repeat the lurching, screeching, yelling, nodding, ushering, greeting and sweating until the driver is satisfied with the number of passengers on the bus. He finally turns the bus around, and I'm relieved to see that we are headed in the right direction! I see the bridge approaching, and am encouraged by the fact that the driver is rushing straight toward it. He screeches to a halt to pay the toll, and within seconds, we're off!! The wind is blowing and the cool breeze from the river is welcomed by our drenched, balmy bodies.
After managing to make it across the river safely, we encounter our next, and most challenging adventure. The road is surrounded by open fields on either side. It's a beautiful view, and I never tire of it. But with open fields, come loads of unpredictable livestock. The road is filled with cows, donkeys, pigs and goats, or what I like to call a “Guyanese obstacle course”. Each animal poses it's own challenge to the driver, and we are forced to put all of our trust in him to maneuver safely around these creatures. Cows, although large and hazardous due their size, are the easiest animal to avoid colliding with. They move so slowly that they are easy to avoid. Pigs, the most intelligent of the bunch tend to stay away from large, quickly moving objects. Donkeys seem to be oblivious to everything that is going on around them, and tend to just stand there (they often choose the middle of the road to mate) and look at you as though you're disturbing them... what asses! It's the goats that are the real challenge. They move quickly and haphazardly. It's very hard to judge where they will go. Sometimes, after crossing the road to safety, they'll dart back in front of the bus, forcing the driver to slam on his brakes in order to avoid making goat-jerkey. I've never seen something so meticulously beautiful as a mini-bus driver steering his way through that chaos. It takes extreme concentration, serious skill and the ability to react at a moments notice with little room for error. Luckily, these men drive this route multiple times daily, and I have nothing but faith in their ability to get their passengers through safely.
Once we get through the obstacle course, we approach the next adventure. We slow at the corner to drop off some passengers and are immediately bombarded with the cutest little children you ever did see trying to sell plantain chips. They reach in through every opening in the windows and practically throw the chips in your lap. No one can understand a word they're saying because their Creolese is so thick. But everyone smiles and greats them affectionately. I've never seen a child work so hard for so little, all the while smiling and laughing. I often buy some chips to reward them for the hard work. Whoever convinced these children to sell the chips knew they'd make a fortune, tugging at the heart strings of every single passenger. When everyone is finished buying their snack, and the driver realizes the children are out of harm's way, we speed off, leaving the children in the dust.
We continue on down the last stretch of our adventure and we're home free. The remainder of the drive is calm and peaceful, and everyone seems to be filled with a sense of comradeship for making it through the adventure alive. We come to the bus stop, exit safely, pay, and thank the driver. I hand him my plantain chips as a token of my appreciation.
I take this drive at least twice a month and each bus ride is similar. It's like a roller-coaster at Disneyland, only no-one ever throws up, and there are rarely snap-shots of the silly faces we made during the scariest moments (which is good, because I bet Mr. Clean looked terrifying).
I've come to the realization that a trip on a Guyanese mini-bus is quite representative of my experience here as a whole: the journey may be fraught with fear and doubt, but if you accept the adventure of it all, and have faith in people, you will always reach your destination safely and happily. And looking back on it, you'll be glad you did it all, even if it was the sweatiest, craziest time of your life :)
Peace, love and mini-buses,
Annie
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
First Comes “Hey white gyal”, Then comes marriage...
As I was chowing down on popcorn (my new favorite food) and rocking out to Jackie Green, I realized that once again, I've been a total slacker about updating my blog. Sorry for the delay folks, I'm sure life feels empty without regular updates from me, but worry not, life will go on. Here is some sustenance to last you a while...
I don't know if everyone has heard the latest news, but I'M ENGAGED!!! Haha! Just kidding (sorry mom and dad)! But I was proposed to. Three times in one day, from three separate men, none of whom I have ever met before. One of my suitors told me that he owned McDonalds. I couldn't figure out why the owner of McDonalds would be working knee deep in a trench, but that's besides the point. The point is, I'm a hot commodity over here. And I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that people see me as a first class ticket to American citizenship. No way Jose! It is true, unrequited love. So ladies, if you're looking for a man, Guyana is the place to be! Come one, come all, to your one-stop-shop for happily ever after!
If you thought that story was a little ridiculous, just wait 'till you hear this one...
A few weekends ago, I was visiting my friends Jillian, Jason and Kirsten in New Amsterdam. After eating tacos (yep! TACOS) for lunch, we decided to chase our meal with a few brews. The few brews turned into a day filled with drinking games and dance parties. After running out of beer, we decided to walk to a nearby rum shop to buy some more booze (because that's always a good idea). As Jason walked inside to check out the selection, us girls stayed out front. A woman was sitting outside with her twins and offered to let us hold them. We couldn't resist, I mean who can say “No” to twins!?! As we were playing with the babies, the mother pulled Jillian aside and asked her if she wanted one. Jillian wasn't sure what she meant, and considering the state we were in, was sure she misunderstood. The woman insisted that we take one of her children. She said we could pick which one. As we stood there in shock, Jason came out with the necessary goods and we left immediately. We returned to the house with a bottle of vodka and NO babies.
On a more serious, and completely unrelated note, I have officially started doing work that I am actually excited about! I started an after-school program for girls a few weeks ago and it has been going well thus far. Attendance is low, but I think that can be attributed to the fact that school is out for the summer. The good news is that the girls who have been coming come every time and seem to really enjoy it. I'm thinking about turning it into a leadership program and doing community work with them. We'll see how it turns out once school is back in session. I'm crossing my fingers I'll have more participants than I'll know what to do with.
Besides the GEM (Girls Empowerment Movement) after-school program, I've started working with a few other volunteers on developing an organization dedicated to working with sufferers of domestic violence. There are no resources for women in abusive relationships in my region, and the hope is to write a grant to attain funds to build an organization modeled after other NGO's in Guyana dedicated to a similar cause. The organization would offer counseling and outreach to victims of abuse. The hope is to eventually also build a safe home for our clients. In order to make this project sustainable, we need to recruit Guyanese people to work with us. We are currently setting up meetings with possible partners hoping to get them on board. Unfortunately, everything takes three times longer in Guyana than it would in the states, so this project is going to take a long, long time. But I'm extremely excited about it and can't wait to get it up and running.
So that's what is new down here in Good Banana-Land (there is actually a town called Good Bananaland not far from here). Hope everything is going well in Delicious Beer-Land!
Peace, love and popcorn!
Annie
I don't know if everyone has heard the latest news, but I'M ENGAGED!!! Haha! Just kidding (sorry mom and dad)! But I was proposed to. Three times in one day, from three separate men, none of whom I have ever met before. One of my suitors told me that he owned McDonalds. I couldn't figure out why the owner of McDonalds would be working knee deep in a trench, but that's besides the point. The point is, I'm a hot commodity over here. And I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that people see me as a first class ticket to American citizenship. No way Jose! It is true, unrequited love. So ladies, if you're looking for a man, Guyana is the place to be! Come one, come all, to your one-stop-shop for happily ever after!
If you thought that story was a little ridiculous, just wait 'till you hear this one...
A few weekends ago, I was visiting my friends Jillian, Jason and Kirsten in New Amsterdam. After eating tacos (yep! TACOS) for lunch, we decided to chase our meal with a few brews. The few brews turned into a day filled with drinking games and dance parties. After running out of beer, we decided to walk to a nearby rum shop to buy some more booze (because that's always a good idea). As Jason walked inside to check out the selection, us girls stayed out front. A woman was sitting outside with her twins and offered to let us hold them. We couldn't resist, I mean who can say “No” to twins!?! As we were playing with the babies, the mother pulled Jillian aside and asked her if she wanted one. Jillian wasn't sure what she meant, and considering the state we were in, was sure she misunderstood. The woman insisted that we take one of her children. She said we could pick which one. As we stood there in shock, Jason came out with the necessary goods and we left immediately. We returned to the house with a bottle of vodka and NO babies.
On a more serious, and completely unrelated note, I have officially started doing work that I am actually excited about! I started an after-school program for girls a few weeks ago and it has been going well thus far. Attendance is low, but I think that can be attributed to the fact that school is out for the summer. The good news is that the girls who have been coming come every time and seem to really enjoy it. I'm thinking about turning it into a leadership program and doing community work with them. We'll see how it turns out once school is back in session. I'm crossing my fingers I'll have more participants than I'll know what to do with.
Besides the GEM (Girls Empowerment Movement) after-school program, I've started working with a few other volunteers on developing an organization dedicated to working with sufferers of domestic violence. There are no resources for women in abusive relationships in my region, and the hope is to write a grant to attain funds to build an organization modeled after other NGO's in Guyana dedicated to a similar cause. The organization would offer counseling and outreach to victims of abuse. The hope is to eventually also build a safe home for our clients. In order to make this project sustainable, we need to recruit Guyanese people to work with us. We are currently setting up meetings with possible partners hoping to get them on board. Unfortunately, everything takes three times longer in Guyana than it would in the states, so this project is going to take a long, long time. But I'm extremely excited about it and can't wait to get it up and running.
So that's what is new down here in Good Banana-Land (there is actually a town called Good Bananaland not far from here). Hope everything is going well in Delicious Beer-Land!
Peace, love and popcorn!
Annie
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Tassa!!
I had a really lame day at work on Friday. The entire day I was on the verge of tears out of sheer frustration with my co-workers and the patients I was dealing with. It was one of those days that made me question my being here. When I finally got home from work, all I wanted to do was lay in my hammock, relax and reflect on my crappy day. Then my friend Nadi called and reminded me that I promised to go to a Muslim pre-wedding celebration. I really did not want to go. I just wanted to stay home and wallow in self-pity. But I promised I would go, and I didn't want to break my promise to a friend.
I quickly readied myself and grudgingly left my house to meet up with Nadi. During my walk to Naidi's house I kept thinking up reasons to be able to escape early. I figured if I stayed for a half hour that would satisfy her and then I could return home and focus on my issues.
When we walked into the wedding house, we were immediately welcomed by smiling women who offered us food and drink, and were doing everything in their power to make everyone feel comfortable. I couldn't understand how they could be so happy when they were working so hard. I was surrounded by happiness, but was determined not to let their positivity dissuade me from being angry at the world.
I began making small talk, and soon everyone was offering their services to me. I was given phone numbers to call if I needed anything. I had to write down my address for them because they wanted to bring me food. I met a woman who had been living in Florida for the past 20 years, and she gave me her address in case I needed a place to stay if I ever want to go to Disneyworld. Here I was, surrounded by women who were genuinely interested in making me as comfortable as possible. In spite of myself, I finally gave in and smiled a little.
In Muslim weddings, the first night of the four day celebration is dedicated to “dying” the groom. The women lay down a white sheet and have the groom sit on it with his shirt off. They then proceed to cover him with a turmeric paste to cleanse his soul. They rub this dye over every inch of his body until he is bright yellow. The groom is not allowed to wash the dye from his body until after the wedding on Sunday.
After taking as many pictures of the dying ceremony as possible, I sat down with Nadi to wait for what was next. When nothing happened, we struck up a conversation. Suddenly, we were interrupted by extremely loud, and wonderfully on-beat drumming. I turned to see people running up to dance around the drummers. Nadi explained that his part of the celebration was called the Tassa. It was beautiful, and once again everyone was smiling. I was enjoying sitting in my seat, moving my feet to the music, and watching the women shake their hips in awe. Then, one of the women ran up to me, grabbed my hand and pulled me onto the “dance floor”. I kept telling her that I'd rather watch, that I couldn't dance but she wouldn't hear it. She grabbed my hips, and somehow, miraculously made them move! I finally decided to stop resisting her attempts and began to dance on my own. At first I was really shy, moving as minimally as possible. But soon, the sound of the beating drum and the smiling faces surrounding me made me feel comfortable and I let loose. And I mean, really let loose. I stopped caring what everyone thought and just let the music take over. I danced and danced and smiled and did I mention danced? until I could barely breathe and my entire body was sore. It was so liberating to let my guard down and be completely free. I'm positive I looked like a fool up there, but no one seemed to mind and I didn't either. I left that night feeling like a whole new woman.
It's moments like these where I am truly thankful to be in this country. The moments, where I get to experience the beauty of Guyanese people and the culture they are ever-so willing to share with me. The moments where I feel like less of an outsider, and part of the Guyanese “club”. These are the moments I will take home with me. This is why I came to Guyana.
Peace, love, and dancing!
-Annie
I quickly readied myself and grudgingly left my house to meet up with Nadi. During my walk to Naidi's house I kept thinking up reasons to be able to escape early. I figured if I stayed for a half hour that would satisfy her and then I could return home and focus on my issues.
When we walked into the wedding house, we were immediately welcomed by smiling women who offered us food and drink, and were doing everything in their power to make everyone feel comfortable. I couldn't understand how they could be so happy when they were working so hard. I was surrounded by happiness, but was determined not to let their positivity dissuade me from being angry at the world.
I began making small talk, and soon everyone was offering their services to me. I was given phone numbers to call if I needed anything. I had to write down my address for them because they wanted to bring me food. I met a woman who had been living in Florida for the past 20 years, and she gave me her address in case I needed a place to stay if I ever want to go to Disneyworld. Here I was, surrounded by women who were genuinely interested in making me as comfortable as possible. In spite of myself, I finally gave in and smiled a little.
In Muslim weddings, the first night of the four day celebration is dedicated to “dying” the groom. The women lay down a white sheet and have the groom sit on it with his shirt off. They then proceed to cover him with a turmeric paste to cleanse his soul. They rub this dye over every inch of his body until he is bright yellow. The groom is not allowed to wash the dye from his body until after the wedding on Sunday.
After taking as many pictures of the dying ceremony as possible, I sat down with Nadi to wait for what was next. When nothing happened, we struck up a conversation. Suddenly, we were interrupted by extremely loud, and wonderfully on-beat drumming. I turned to see people running up to dance around the drummers. Nadi explained that his part of the celebration was called the Tassa. It was beautiful, and once again everyone was smiling. I was enjoying sitting in my seat, moving my feet to the music, and watching the women shake their hips in awe. Then, one of the women ran up to me, grabbed my hand and pulled me onto the “dance floor”. I kept telling her that I'd rather watch, that I couldn't dance but she wouldn't hear it. She grabbed my hips, and somehow, miraculously made them move! I finally decided to stop resisting her attempts and began to dance on my own. At first I was really shy, moving as minimally as possible. But soon, the sound of the beating drum and the smiling faces surrounding me made me feel comfortable and I let loose. And I mean, really let loose. I stopped caring what everyone thought and just let the music take over. I danced and danced and smiled and did I mention danced? until I could barely breathe and my entire body was sore. It was so liberating to let my guard down and be completely free. I'm positive I looked like a fool up there, but no one seemed to mind and I didn't either. I left that night feeling like a whole new woman.
It's moments like these where I am truly thankful to be in this country. The moments, where I get to experience the beauty of Guyanese people and the culture they are ever-so willing to share with me. The moments where I feel like less of an outsider, and part of the Guyanese “club”. These are the moments I will take home with me. This is why I came to Guyana.
Peace, love, and dancing!
-Annie
Monday, June 28, 2010
Mangoes, Mosquitoes, Morrie and Muriel Barbery...
This blog is dedicated to the deliciousness of fresh mangoes, the horribleness of mosquitoes, and the cuteness of my new companion Morrie.
I recently discovered the glory of mangoes. Before coming to Guyana, I wasn't a huge fan of them. I never bought them at the store because they were always so expensive. But the other day when I was at the market, I saw that mangoes were 6 for $100 ( that's 50 cents US folks). So I decided to give them a try. When I got home, I peeled my first Guyanese mango and my hands and arms were immediately dripping with it's juices. Then, with a little hesitation, I took a bite. My mouth exploded in satisfaction. I couldn't eat the thing fast enough. It was one of the most glorious tastes I've ever experienced. I continued to eat 3 more until my belly ached. Now, whenever I see mangoes at the market I stalk up and find myself having to limit my daily intake. The only downside is the ever-present need to floss immediately after consumption. Those succulent suckers manage to force their pulp into every crevice in your mouth. After devouring one I look in the mirror and my teeth are yellow... very attractive. But it is totally worth it, and it ensures that I floss every day! Hurray for mangoes!!!!
It is now officially the “rainy season” in Guyana. This means torrential downpour one minute and blue skys the next. It also means that mosquitoes are out in full force. When I come out of my house to run in the morning, I'm immediately bombarded by a swarm. And I'm not talking swarms like we have in the US. It's like nothing I've ever seen. Sometimes the swarms are so thick I can barely see through them. Even when I coat myself with Mozipel (Guyana's version of OFF!), they manage to bite the crap out of me. I feel like I'm in the Far side cartoon where the people are in the jungle and they discover that they accidentally brought the bottle wrong bottle (ON! instead of OFF!). My new favorite thing to do is walk around my house killing mosquitoes. It's an awesome way to pass the time, and it is surprising satisfying. Who would have thought killing something could feel so good?! The best part about these pests is that they carry awesome diseases like Dengue Fever and Malaria. Spreading the love, one bite at a time. Malaria isn't prevalent on the coast, but most volunteers in my area end up contracting Dengue at some point in time (crossing my fingers I'll get lucky and avoid it). Thank goodness I have a mosquito net!
About two weeks ago one of my co-workers gave me a seven week old kitten. I decided to name him Morrie after the book Tuesdays with Morrie (if you haven't read it, DO IT! It will change your life). A couple of days after getting my new friend, I noticed that his belly was swollen and that he was having trouble eating. I did some research online and discovered that he had worms. I took him to the vet as soon as I could. It was quite the fiasco getting there. Morrie doesn't seem to be a huge fan of traveling in buses. The wind blows in his face and scares him. He was clinging on to me for dear life. When I tried to detach him from my body he freaked out and scratched the crap out of my arms. Anyway, we get to the vet and he's examining Morrie. I ask if Morrie has worms and the vet yes “Yep, she's got worms all right”. I say “wait a minute. Morrie's a she??”. “Oh yes” the vet informs me, “did you think she was a he?”. Yes, yes I did Mr. vet. Suddenly, all of these thoughts came to my mind like: “your whole life has been a lie! Your whole world has been turned upside down! Is he/she going to have gender identity issues? Will she/he need counseling?”. Then I remembered that he/she is a cat and probably has no idea that anyone ever thought she was a he. Phew! That was a close one. After I gathered my thoughts, the vet gave Morrie some icky de-worming medicine which she proceeded to spit everywhere. Then he gave her an injection and Morrie once again, scratched the crap out of my arm. She was not a happy camper, and I thought she hated me. Soon Morrie stopped yelping and I thanked the vet for his time and left. After that crazy ordeal, Morrie and I went to visit my friend Kirsten. Kirsten has a cat named Monkey (who, oddly enough just discovered that she was a he). Monkey did not like having Morrie on her turf and proceeded to clock Morrie in the face with her/his paw. Needless to say, Morrie had a traumatizing day.
Morrie is doing much better now and is settling well into my home and her new role as a female kitty. She's been a wonderful companion and playmate and can cuddle like the best of them. Having her has made my life here so much better. It's so nice to have something to come home to. She greets me every day when I get home from work (usually because she wants more milk), and continues to bring joy to my life (even when she decides to turn the area underneath my bed into her litter box).
To wrap it all up, life in Guyana is continuing to improve for me. I'm starting to establish myself in my community and am finally starting to feel comfortable in my surroundings. I am continuously learning new things at the Health Centre, and am starting to feel like the work I am doing is worth while. I've finally started working on some secondary projects and should get them up and running in the near future. Life is good, and I have a feeling it's only going to get better. I'll leave you with a quote I found today that sums of my current standpoint on life: “ We all have a knowledge of harmony, anchored deep within. It is this knowledge that enables us, at every instant, to apprehend quality in our lives and, on the rare occasion when everything is in perfect harmony, to appreciate it with the apposite intensity. And I am not referring to the sort of beauty that is the exclusive preserve of Art. Those who feel inspired, as I do, by the greatness of small things will pursue them to the very heart of the inessential where, cloaked in everyday attire, this greatness will emerge from within a certain ordering of ordinary things and from the certainty that all is as it should be, the conviction that it is fine this way”- Muriel Barbery, The Elegance of the Hedgehog
Peace, love and kittens,
Annie
I recently discovered the glory of mangoes. Before coming to Guyana, I wasn't a huge fan of them. I never bought them at the store because they were always so expensive. But the other day when I was at the market, I saw that mangoes were 6 for $100 ( that's 50 cents US folks). So I decided to give them a try. When I got home, I peeled my first Guyanese mango and my hands and arms were immediately dripping with it's juices. Then, with a little hesitation, I took a bite. My mouth exploded in satisfaction. I couldn't eat the thing fast enough. It was one of the most glorious tastes I've ever experienced. I continued to eat 3 more until my belly ached. Now, whenever I see mangoes at the market I stalk up and find myself having to limit my daily intake. The only downside is the ever-present need to floss immediately after consumption. Those succulent suckers manage to force their pulp into every crevice in your mouth. After devouring one I look in the mirror and my teeth are yellow... very attractive. But it is totally worth it, and it ensures that I floss every day! Hurray for mangoes!!!!
It is now officially the “rainy season” in Guyana. This means torrential downpour one minute and blue skys the next. It also means that mosquitoes are out in full force. When I come out of my house to run in the morning, I'm immediately bombarded by a swarm. And I'm not talking swarms like we have in the US. It's like nothing I've ever seen. Sometimes the swarms are so thick I can barely see through them. Even when I coat myself with Mozipel (Guyana's version of OFF!), they manage to bite the crap out of me. I feel like I'm in the Far side cartoon where the people are in the jungle and they discover that they accidentally brought the bottle wrong bottle (ON! instead of OFF!). My new favorite thing to do is walk around my house killing mosquitoes. It's an awesome way to pass the time, and it is surprising satisfying. Who would have thought killing something could feel so good?! The best part about these pests is that they carry awesome diseases like Dengue Fever and Malaria. Spreading the love, one bite at a time. Malaria isn't prevalent on the coast, but most volunteers in my area end up contracting Dengue at some point in time (crossing my fingers I'll get lucky and avoid it). Thank goodness I have a mosquito net!
About two weeks ago one of my co-workers gave me a seven week old kitten. I decided to name him Morrie after the book Tuesdays with Morrie (if you haven't read it, DO IT! It will change your life). A couple of days after getting my new friend, I noticed that his belly was swollen and that he was having trouble eating. I did some research online and discovered that he had worms. I took him to the vet as soon as I could. It was quite the fiasco getting there. Morrie doesn't seem to be a huge fan of traveling in buses. The wind blows in his face and scares him. He was clinging on to me for dear life. When I tried to detach him from my body he freaked out and scratched the crap out of my arms. Anyway, we get to the vet and he's examining Morrie. I ask if Morrie has worms and the vet yes “Yep, she's got worms all right”. I say “wait a minute. Morrie's a she??”. “Oh yes” the vet informs me, “did you think she was a he?”. Yes, yes I did Mr. vet. Suddenly, all of these thoughts came to my mind like: “your whole life has been a lie! Your whole world has been turned upside down! Is he/she going to have gender identity issues? Will she/he need counseling?”. Then I remembered that he/she is a cat and probably has no idea that anyone ever thought she was a he. Phew! That was a close one. After I gathered my thoughts, the vet gave Morrie some icky de-worming medicine which she proceeded to spit everywhere. Then he gave her an injection and Morrie once again, scratched the crap out of my arm. She was not a happy camper, and I thought she hated me. Soon Morrie stopped yelping and I thanked the vet for his time and left. After that crazy ordeal, Morrie and I went to visit my friend Kirsten. Kirsten has a cat named Monkey (who, oddly enough just discovered that she was a he). Monkey did not like having Morrie on her turf and proceeded to clock Morrie in the face with her/his paw. Needless to say, Morrie had a traumatizing day.
Morrie is doing much better now and is settling well into my home and her new role as a female kitty. She's been a wonderful companion and playmate and can cuddle like the best of them. Having her has made my life here so much better. It's so nice to have something to come home to. She greets me every day when I get home from work (usually because she wants more milk), and continues to bring joy to my life (even when she decides to turn the area underneath my bed into her litter box).
To wrap it all up, life in Guyana is continuing to improve for me. I'm starting to establish myself in my community and am finally starting to feel comfortable in my surroundings. I am continuously learning new things at the Health Centre, and am starting to feel like the work I am doing is worth while. I've finally started working on some secondary projects and should get them up and running in the near future. Life is good, and I have a feeling it's only going to get better. I'll leave you with a quote I found today that sums of my current standpoint on life: “ We all have a knowledge of harmony, anchored deep within. It is this knowledge that enables us, at every instant, to apprehend quality in our lives and, on the rare occasion when everything is in perfect harmony, to appreciate it with the apposite intensity. And I am not referring to the sort of beauty that is the exclusive preserve of Art. Those who feel inspired, as I do, by the greatness of small things will pursue them to the very heart of the inessential where, cloaked in everyday attire, this greatness will emerge from within a certain ordering of ordinary things and from the certainty that all is as it should be, the conviction that it is fine this way”- Muriel Barbery, The Elegance of the Hedgehog
Peace, love and kittens,
Annie
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Sip it Sucker...
It has been far too long since I last updated my blog. The truth is, not much is new here. But I realized I haven't shared much on Guyanese culture on this thing. So that is why I've decided I shall dedicate this blog to sipping. One of the many awesome aspects of Guyanese Culture
The Guyanese people have perfected the art of "sipping". I'm sure you're thinking to yourself "sipping? you mean taking a gulp of a beverage?". Oh no dear reader. In Guyana sipping takes on a whole new meaning. Walk down any street in this country and you will observe the phenonmenon of sipping (especially if you're a white girl with big boobs). It's the Guyanese version of "cat-calling" but it so much more than that! Men are usually the ones who "sip" but women do it too. To get your attention they make an abnormally loud kissing sound. Once you look at them (which for some reason, I still can't help but look) they have some interesting, and often offensive, thing to say to you. Usually they say things like "Hey white gyal, you're beautiful! I love you! Will you marry me?", or "good afternoon princess, you are looking fine today" and if you're really lucky they call you "white meat" instead of "white gyal" or "princess". My friend Jillian, a slef-proclaimed "fat-kid" has gotten the best sips since coming here. Once, while walking down the street, a man who was cutting grass turned off his electric cutter, took off his protective goggles and face mask and said " WOW! You! I love you fat gyal! I love you! WOW!" My favorite was "Hey white gyal, you look like a thick can of condensed milk!". Another friend of mine walked to the market one day and she encountered a man making gagging noises. When she asked him if he was alright, and he said "Yes, just making room for your white meat!". The best one I've ever gotten (and dad I think you'll appreciate this...) "Hey! That girl not white, she pink! Hey pink gyal!". So that, my friends, is sipping in a nutshell and even though no woman in her right mind enjoys being sipped at, the men refuse to stop and I refuse to stop laughing at the ridiculousness of it all.
AND...
Here are some creolese terms I have learned, and actually use!
oh me mo ma!: oh my goodness!
just now: a time frame ranging anywhere from now- 3 hours.
wah happen you?: are you alright?
how yuh do?:how are you?
you gettin' tru?: do you need help with anything? (note: th is pronounced t here)
take a five: to take a nap
coolie gyal/bai: term for Indian girl/boy
auntie/uncle: term of respect for elderly women/men
So life is good. I'm slowly getting comfortable in my site and home. I promise I'll update this thing more often. And I tried uploading pictures, but I couldn't figure out how. They're up on my facebook page so check em' out!
Peace and Love,
The Pink Gyal
The Guyanese people have perfected the art of "sipping". I'm sure you're thinking to yourself "sipping? you mean taking a gulp of a beverage?". Oh no dear reader. In Guyana sipping takes on a whole new meaning. Walk down any street in this country and you will observe the phenonmenon of sipping (especially if you're a white girl with big boobs). It's the Guyanese version of "cat-calling" but it so much more than that! Men are usually the ones who "sip" but women do it too. To get your attention they make an abnormally loud kissing sound. Once you look at them (which for some reason, I still can't help but look) they have some interesting, and often offensive, thing to say to you. Usually they say things like "Hey white gyal, you're beautiful! I love you! Will you marry me?", or "good afternoon princess, you are looking fine today" and if you're really lucky they call you "white meat" instead of "white gyal" or "princess". My friend Jillian, a slef-proclaimed "fat-kid" has gotten the best sips since coming here. Once, while walking down the street, a man who was cutting grass turned off his electric cutter, took off his protective goggles and face mask and said " WOW! You! I love you fat gyal! I love you! WOW!" My favorite was "Hey white gyal, you look like a thick can of condensed milk!". Another friend of mine walked to the market one day and she encountered a man making gagging noises. When she asked him if he was alright, and he said "Yes, just making room for your white meat!". The best one I've ever gotten (and dad I think you'll appreciate this...) "Hey! That girl not white, she pink! Hey pink gyal!". So that, my friends, is sipping in a nutshell and even though no woman in her right mind enjoys being sipped at, the men refuse to stop and I refuse to stop laughing at the ridiculousness of it all.
AND...
Here are some creolese terms I have learned, and actually use!
oh me mo ma!: oh my goodness!
just now: a time frame ranging anywhere from now- 3 hours.
wah happen you?: are you alright?
how yuh do?:how are you?
you gettin' tru?: do you need help with anything? (note: th is pronounced t here)
take a five: to take a nap
coolie gyal/bai: term for Indian girl/boy
auntie/uncle: term of respect for elderly women/men
So life is good. I'm slowly getting comfortable in my site and home. I promise I'll update this thing more often. And I tried uploading pictures, but I couldn't figure out how. They're up on my facebook page so check em' out!
Peace and Love,
The Pink Gyal
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Weep While you Worship...
Last Thursday I agreed to go to church with one of my co-workers, and let's just say it was an interesting experience and one I thought I should share. I walked into the so-called church and suddenly heard the sound of tone-deaf people singing worship songs to the beat of a drummer who was completely off beat. Everyone was standing with their eyes closed and the preacher was going aroung touching people's foreheads and speaking in tounges. When he was finished speaking complete nonsense, the person he was touching would fall backwards into the arms of their fellow worshipers. As he was knocking people off of their feet with the word of god, a boy came in with a bucket filled with hay lit on fire which filled the room with an indescribable scent. Soon, the hay lept out of the bucket and was burning on the floor. Apparently everyone else was caught up their prayers because I was the only one taken aback by this chaos. The boy stomped the fire out, and I was able to continue observing the insanity that was surrounding me. I looked to my left and saw a woman crying and doing what I thought was the hokey pokey (she was putting her right hand, left hand, and the rest of her body in and shaking it ALL about). I could tell that everyone else was very impressed by how seriously this woman took her religion and that they wished they were so in-touch with God. Suddenly, inspiration came to me! I realized how easily I could exploit the devoutness people like the hokey pokey woman and those who wished they were like her by writing a worship album called "Weep While You Worship- the only way the lord really hears your prayers". Basically, the album would consist of multiple worship songs sung by a person who was bawling like a baby, and occasionally a big booming voice (the voice of god) would come say something about how he/she knows that this person is devout because of their tears. I figure I could have my brother and Bo write the lyrics, and Kaci sing in a Gospel-esk voice. We could make MILLIONS! Haha, just kidding :)
In other news, some of my amazing friends sent me an i-pod in the mail for my birthday but some douchebag stole it :( Luckily, the card was still intact and it really made my day! Thanks to everyone else who sent cards, and birthday wishes yesterday! It was so nice to check my e-mail and see it filled with kinds thoughts from my friends and family. You all rock my socks off :)
Four people from our Peace Corps. group left this week. It was heart breaking to see them leave. So far, 7 of the 35 people who came have left and we've only been here for three months! I'm not planning on leaving anytime soon though... even if I'm the only person left. I am really starting to enjoy myself here and have met some rad people in the process (even if I am sweating my ass off!). I'm so grateful to have been placed in Rosignol. I feel like it has been a very good fit for me. It's challenging at times, but I like a challenge... BRING IT ON GUYANA! To sum it all up, I'm happy, healthy and appreciate this amazing opportunity I've been given (thanks U.S. Government!).
Peace, love and positivity,
Annie-Bo-Bannie
In other news, some of my amazing friends sent me an i-pod in the mail for my birthday but some douchebag stole it :( Luckily, the card was still intact and it really made my day! Thanks to everyone else who sent cards, and birthday wishes yesterday! It was so nice to check my e-mail and see it filled with kinds thoughts from my friends and family. You all rock my socks off :)
Four people from our Peace Corps. group left this week. It was heart breaking to see them leave. So far, 7 of the 35 people who came have left and we've only been here for three months! I'm not planning on leaving anytime soon though... even if I'm the only person left. I am really starting to enjoy myself here and have met some rad people in the process (even if I am sweating my ass off!). I'm so grateful to have been placed in Rosignol. I feel like it has been a very good fit for me. It's challenging at times, but I like a challenge... BRING IT ON GUYANA! To sum it all up, I'm happy, healthy and appreciate this amazing opportunity I've been given (thanks U.S. Government!).
Peace, love and positivity,
Annie-Bo-Bannie
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Love, Peace and Creolese
I've been in Guyana for 3 months, and it feels like just yesterday that I was stepping off the plane into this beautiful, unknown land. Let's see, what's new here...
Last weekend was filled with fun, cultural activities. On Saturday, a few of my co-workers came over to teach me how to cook some authentic Guyanese food. We made curry, dal puri roti and custard. I, in turn, taught them how to play kings cup (I'm such a bad influence). They seemed to enjoy the game (as most people do after a few rounds) and I thoroughly enjoyed the food. I promise to cook these delicious dishes when I come home.
On Sunday, I my co-worker, Vanie took me to two weddings. The first was a Hindu wedding and it was beautiful. We got there early to help the bride get ready, she was gorgeous- covered from head to foot in beads and jewlery and wearing a stunning red sari. Apparently, Hindu weddings are a four day celebration. On Sunday, the thrid day, the bride and groom finally get to see each other and exchange vows. They sit together, under a tree while a holy man sings prayers. Even though I didn't understand anything he was saying, it was beautiful to watch. After the ceremony, the bride and groom leave and everyone else celebrates. They serve seven curry with rice in a lily pad to all the guests. And after everyone is finished digesting, they drink rum and dance into the wee hours of the morning (keep in mind the wedding started at 10 am). The entire experience was awesome, and I hope to go to another Hindu wedding soon.
The next wedding we went to was a Christian wedding and, needless to say, it was much less exciting. I snuck out early because I was sick of listening to Shania Twain and Whitney Huston. But I got a free meal out of it, so I can't complain.
Not much else is new here. I haven't started any secondary projects, and probably won't for a while. I need to become more established in my community and figure out their wants and needs. I've been running every morning, and have yet to get attacked by a dog! I am really starting to enjoy my time here, and have realized how important it is to maintain a positive attitude about everything I encounter. I'm meeting more people everyday, and am really starting to enjoy the work I'm doiong at the Health Centre. So life is good, and it's only going to get better. Peace and love to all :)
-Annie
Last weekend was filled with fun, cultural activities. On Saturday, a few of my co-workers came over to teach me how to cook some authentic Guyanese food. We made curry, dal puri roti and custard. I, in turn, taught them how to play kings cup (I'm such a bad influence). They seemed to enjoy the game (as most people do after a few rounds) and I thoroughly enjoyed the food. I promise to cook these delicious dishes when I come home.
On Sunday, I my co-worker, Vanie took me to two weddings. The first was a Hindu wedding and it was beautiful. We got there early to help the bride get ready, she was gorgeous- covered from head to foot in beads and jewlery and wearing a stunning red sari. Apparently, Hindu weddings are a four day celebration. On Sunday, the thrid day, the bride and groom finally get to see each other and exchange vows. They sit together, under a tree while a holy man sings prayers. Even though I didn't understand anything he was saying, it was beautiful to watch. After the ceremony, the bride and groom leave and everyone else celebrates. They serve seven curry with rice in a lily pad to all the guests. And after everyone is finished digesting, they drink rum and dance into the wee hours of the morning (keep in mind the wedding started at 10 am). The entire experience was awesome, and I hope to go to another Hindu wedding soon.
The next wedding we went to was a Christian wedding and, needless to say, it was much less exciting. I snuck out early because I was sick of listening to Shania Twain and Whitney Huston. But I got a free meal out of it, so I can't complain.
Not much else is new here. I haven't started any secondary projects, and probably won't for a while. I need to become more established in my community and figure out their wants and needs. I've been running every morning, and have yet to get attacked by a dog! I am really starting to enjoy my time here, and have realized how important it is to maintain a positive attitude about everything I encounter. I'm meeting more people everyday, and am really starting to enjoy the work I'm doiong at the Health Centre. So life is good, and it's only going to get better. Peace and love to all :)
-Annie
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Rollercoaster of Emotions
I've been at my new site for 3 weeks! I can't believe how fast the time is flying. I had an amazingly enlightening experience the other day that I thought I should share. But first, let me preface it with some of the emotions I was struggling with before this awesome moment...
There are so many aspects of Guyanese culture that are beautiful, unique and something I feel so fortunate to be able to experience. Alternatively, there are parts of this culture I have had a hard time coming to terms with, and feel that by accepting these "cultural norms" I am compromising who I am, what I believe in, and why I'm here. Here are a few examples of issues I face on a daily basis: mother's hitting their children at the clinic, children throwing rocks at dogs, battered women who come into the health centre seeking treatment, knowing full well the law does not protect them against domestic violence, leaving them feeling stuck in these terrible living conditions. What bothers me about all of this is that it is just accepted by people living here, and in order for me to integrate, I feel that I have to accept these issues and compromise my morals. In the process, I feel like I'm becoming jaded and emotionless. I walked by a dead puppy on the side of the road the other day and wasn't fazed by it. When I got home, I started to cry. Not because the puppy had died, but because it didn't bother me.
After coming home everyday filled with these frustrations, I realized I needed to come up with a solution. I decided to go for a run the next morning, and this is where I had my enlightening moment. I woke up feeling confused and angry. It was about 6 am and the sun was just starting to rise. I put on my running shoes and started running down the dirt road. I didn't know where it would take me and that was part of it's appeal. The road was empty and all I could hear were birds chirping, the "pitter-patter" of my feet on the dirt, my breath, (heavy because I hadn't run since being here) and my heart pounding in my head. Something about this peace and quiet helped clear my head of all the clutter and start to see things more clearly. Then it began to rain and I couldn't stop smiling. I realized in this moment how fortunate I am to have this opportunity to address these issues in my community. To become someone the people of Rosignol trust. Someone who can inspire change through the development of interpersonal relationships. That is why I'm here- to make positive change in a place that seems "unchangeable". To make people see a different point of view, and hopefully accept it as their own. All of these thoughts led to more thoughts about the type of projects I would like to start during my time here.
Here is a list I've come up with... please add if you have any other ideas:)
1. An after school program for teenage girls- if you empower women, you can make so much change.
2. Environmental awareness campaign- focusing on waste reduction: there is no form of waste disposal in Guyana. Most people either burn their garbage (plastics included) or throw it in the river.
3. Running/walking group for women in the community- use this as a way to improve physical health and start some dialogue on domestic violence and child abuse.
and of course....
4. Ultimate frisbee club- to spread the love of ultimate around the world <3
As I said, any other ideas would be a huge help!
I miss everyone from home everyday and wish that you could all be here to experience this crazy Guyanese Life!
Peace and so much love!
There are so many aspects of Guyanese culture that are beautiful, unique and something I feel so fortunate to be able to experience. Alternatively, there are parts of this culture I have had a hard time coming to terms with, and feel that by accepting these "cultural norms" I am compromising who I am, what I believe in, and why I'm here. Here are a few examples of issues I face on a daily basis: mother's hitting their children at the clinic, children throwing rocks at dogs, battered women who come into the health centre seeking treatment, knowing full well the law does not protect them against domestic violence, leaving them feeling stuck in these terrible living conditions. What bothers me about all of this is that it is just accepted by people living here, and in order for me to integrate, I feel that I have to accept these issues and compromise my morals. In the process, I feel like I'm becoming jaded and emotionless. I walked by a dead puppy on the side of the road the other day and wasn't fazed by it. When I got home, I started to cry. Not because the puppy had died, but because it didn't bother me.
After coming home everyday filled with these frustrations, I realized I needed to come up with a solution. I decided to go for a run the next morning, and this is where I had my enlightening moment. I woke up feeling confused and angry. It was about 6 am and the sun was just starting to rise. I put on my running shoes and started running down the dirt road. I didn't know where it would take me and that was part of it's appeal. The road was empty and all I could hear were birds chirping, the "pitter-patter" of my feet on the dirt, my breath, (heavy because I hadn't run since being here) and my heart pounding in my head. Something about this peace and quiet helped clear my head of all the clutter and start to see things more clearly. Then it began to rain and I couldn't stop smiling. I realized in this moment how fortunate I am to have this opportunity to address these issues in my community. To become someone the people of Rosignol trust. Someone who can inspire change through the development of interpersonal relationships. That is why I'm here- to make positive change in a place that seems "unchangeable". To make people see a different point of view, and hopefully accept it as their own. All of these thoughts led to more thoughts about the type of projects I would like to start during my time here.
Here is a list I've come up with... please add if you have any other ideas:)
1. An after school program for teenage girls- if you empower women, you can make so much change.
2. Environmental awareness campaign- focusing on waste reduction: there is no form of waste disposal in Guyana. Most people either burn their garbage (plastics included) or throw it in the river.
3. Running/walking group for women in the community- use this as a way to improve physical health and start some dialogue on domestic violence and child abuse.
and of course....
4. Ultimate frisbee club- to spread the love of ultimate around the world <3
As I said, any other ideas would be a huge help!
I miss everyone from home everyday and wish that you could all be here to experience this crazy Guyanese Life!
Peace and so much love!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
What's that? I'm an offical volunteer? AWESOME
Geez it's been a while since I last wrote. So much to catch up on. Where to begin??
I left my host family, a kitten I rescued from the trench and the Essequibo Coast last Sunday. Driving away, I was filled with a myriad of different emotions: excitement, nervousness, sorrow etc. But on we drove, and boated, and drove again until we reached the Aracari resort. As we exited the minibus and explored the hotel we discovered a pool, dance floor and bar. The excitement of jumping in water that didn't look like a chai latte almost overwhelmed us. As I started running to my room to change into my swim suit, I was informed that we would be in meetings for the rest of the day which was great because it's not like we've been in meetings everyday for the past two months. The meeting actually turned out to be very beneficial because we got to meet our counterparts- the people we will be working with for the next two years. My counterpart, Nurse June is AMAZING. She is a godsend. She has been a counterpart to 5 volunteers in the past and has been a huge support to me.
On Tuesday, we had our "swearing in" where we became official Peace Corps Volunteers here's an article to prove it in case you don't believe me:
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2010/stories
After the swearing in we had a party where we were able to take full advantage of the pool, dance floor and bar. And let's just say that I am still a little sore from gettin' down on the dance floor. If felt so good to cut loose with my fellow volunteers. It was a little difficult to wake up the next morning and pack for my new site considering the events that took place the night before. Needless to say, I got everything in order and had to say goodbye to the beautiful resort and all of the amazing friends I've met since coming here. I didn't realize how attached I've become to all of these people. We've already been through so much together, it was really hard to say goodbye.
So I got on the bus with my counterpart and a few other volunteers who are living in the same area as me and off we went to our new lives! The entire drive to Rosignol, we listened to Jesus music, which really helped my already sour mood. On top of that, my counterpart (who is totally tone deaf) was singing at the top of her lungs. FYI, the drive from Georgetown to Rosignol is approximately one hour...
So I get to my new house and it is pretty awesome. It was kind of dirty when I first moved in but I've cleaned it up so it's pretty nice. It's the upper level of a two flat house. It's pretty open and breezy. Two bedroom, one bath, large kitchen with plenty of counter space and a fridge. AND a beautiful veranda where I hung up my bright, banana yellow hammock. I have been spending the majority of my time there.
I started my job at the clinic today and it was amazing. I was able to sit in on 3 one-on-one consultations with HIV positive patients and help people join the diabetes/hypertension clinic. I think I'm going to be very busy there which is awesome. It'll help me keep my mind off of home. I plan on going into the school soon to see if I can start some after school programs as well. There are also some NGO's near by that I would love to work with. This place has a lot of potential. I'm very excited to be placed here.
Even though this place is great and I'm excited about being here, I have been very homesick and lonely lately. I think a lot of it is because I'm in an entirely new place (and I mean entirely in every sense of the word) and am living alone, which I've never done before. Any letters/e-mails from home would be a HUGE help. It's crazy how much an e-mail brightens my entire day. I should be putting up pictures soon! Peace and love:)
I left my host family, a kitten I rescued from the trench and the Essequibo Coast last Sunday. Driving away, I was filled with a myriad of different emotions: excitement, nervousness, sorrow etc. But on we drove, and boated, and drove again until we reached the Aracari resort. As we exited the minibus and explored the hotel we discovered a pool, dance floor and bar. The excitement of jumping in water that didn't look like a chai latte almost overwhelmed us. As I started running to my room to change into my swim suit, I was informed that we would be in meetings for the rest of the day which was great because it's not like we've been in meetings everyday for the past two months. The meeting actually turned out to be very beneficial because we got to meet our counterparts- the people we will be working with for the next two years. My counterpart, Nurse June is AMAZING. She is a godsend. She has been a counterpart to 5 volunteers in the past and has been a huge support to me.
On Tuesday, we had our "swearing in" where we became official Peace Corps Volunteers here's an article to prove it in case you don't believe me:
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2010/stories/03/31/new-peace-corps-volunteers-told-their-task-is-no-%E2%80%98cake-walk%E2%80%99/
After the swearing in we had a party where we were able to take full advantage of the pool, dance floor and bar. And let's just say that I am still a little sore from gettin' down on the dance floor. If felt so good to cut loose with my fellow volunteers. It was a little difficult to wake up the next morning and pack for my new site considering the events that took place the night before. Needless to say, I got everything in order and had to say goodbye to the beautiful resort and all of the amazing friends I've met since coming here. I didn't realize how attached I've become to all of these people. We've already been through so much together, it was really hard to say goodbye.So I got on the bus with my counterpart and a few other volunteers who are living in the same area as me and off we went to our new lives! The entire drive to Rosignol, we listened to Jesus music, which really helped my already sour mood. On top of that, my counterpart (who is totally tone deaf) was singing at the top of her lungs. FYI, the drive from Georgetown to Rosignol is approximately one hour...
So I get to my new house and it is pretty awesome. It was kind of dirty when I first moved in but I've cleaned it up so it's pretty nice. It's the upper level of a two flat house. It's pretty open and breezy. Two bedroom, one bath, large kitchen with plenty of counter space and a fridge. AND a beautiful veranda where I hung up my bright, banana yellow hammock. I have been spending the majority of my time there.
I started my job at the clinic today and it was amazing. I was able to sit in on 3 one-on-one consultations with HIV positive patients and help people join the diabetes/hypertension clinic. I think I'm going to be very busy there which is awesome. It'll help me keep my mind off of home. I plan on going into the school soon to see if I can start some after school programs as well. There are also some NGO's near by that I would love to work with. This place has a lot of potential. I'm very excited to be placed here.
Even though this place is great and I'm excited about being here, I have been very homesick and lonely lately. I think a lot of it is because I'm in an entirely new place (and I mean entirely in every sense of the word) and am living alone, which I've never done before. Any letters/e-mails from home would be a HUGE help. It's crazy how much an e-mail brightens my entire day. I should be putting up pictures soon! Peace and love:)
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Nah Take No Worries Man
Hellooooooo blog-a-log:)
So much has happened since I last wrote! Here are a few of the highlights...
I now know where I am going to be living for the next two years of my life WOOT WOOT! I will be working at a hospital in Rosignol which is a suburb outside of New Amsterdam (the second largest city in Guyana). It was my first choice so I am very excited about it. The job sounds amazing and there are a lot of opportunities for secondary projects (can you say Ultimate Club?!?). Rosignol is right on the Berbice river and close to the coast. It's about an hour outside of Georgetown and 2 hours away from Surinam which is supposedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The only downfall my placement is that the area is flat, bare, and somewhat ugly compared to the rest of the country. Which is a shame because Guyana has so much beauty to offer. I guess I'll just have to visit other volunteers to have the "wilderness experience" I was imagining.
I only have one week left with my host family which is exciting and upsetting all at the same time. I'm very excited to get to my new place and have some alone time. I am surrounded by people constantly. I have not been alone for more than an hour since I've been here (besides sleeping) which is starting to make me a little crazy. I just have to remind myself that I will be alone all of the time when I get to Rosignol so I should take advantage of the time I have left with my host family. They really are amazing women and they've taught me so much in the little time I have known them. I'm going to miss playing Uno every night and watching Oprah with them!
Last weekend we had "culture day" at Lake Mainstay Resort. It was a lot of fun! I was able to teach some Guyanese Children how to play Ultimate and swim around. The water at the lake is called Black Water. It's supposed to be very healing but it smelled funny and the bottom of the lake was nasty. You couldn't really stand up because it was so soft you just sink down. We had a fashion show where one of the guys in our group strutted his stuff in a diaper. It was a beautiful thing and one of the highlights of my time here thus far.
Some frustrating events that happened at home have caused me to do some serious introspection. It's crazy how an experience like this can make you re-evaluate who you are completely. I find that I am constantly questioning my beliefs and behaviors here. I think a lot of it is because I am surrounded by people who don't really know me yet, and because I'm not totally comfortable around them I haven't been my self. I'm quiet and shy here (didn't think that was ever possible) and don't know what to say or how to express myself. Before coming here I was so confidant in who I was and who I would become. But being here makes me doubt... it's very humbling. I look at this situation as an opportunity for self-improvement. I wanted to come here to find out who I really am and what I want in life and I think it's completely natural to have these doubts at some point in life. I think this experience will only make me stronger.
Regardless of these doubts. I really am enjoying my time here. I have made some amazing friends and have learned to celebrate the little things in life (ie: having normal bowel movements). AND I'm slowly learning some Creolese. Nah take no worries man is like the Guayanese version of Hakuna Matatta. I'm learning how to cook some delicious Guyanese dishes and Roushanna has taught me some sweet dance moves (I taught her the running man). I saw the largest spider the other night and only screamed a little :).
Next week we have our "swearing in" where I officially become a Volunteer!!!!! I am so happy to be finished with training! Although I am going to miss seeing everyone every day.
Okay! I think that's about all that is new in my world. Hope everyone is doing well! Peace and soooooo much love :)
-Annie
So much has happened since I last wrote! Here are a few of the highlights...
I now know where I am going to be living for the next two years of my life WOOT WOOT! I will be working at a hospital in Rosignol which is a suburb outside of New Amsterdam (the second largest city in Guyana). It was my first choice so I am very excited about it. The job sounds amazing and there are a lot of opportunities for secondary projects (can you say Ultimate Club?!?). Rosignol is right on the Berbice river and close to the coast. It's about an hour outside of Georgetown and 2 hours away from Surinam which is supposedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The only downfall my placement is that the area is flat, bare, and somewhat ugly compared to the rest of the country. Which is a shame because Guyana has so much beauty to offer. I guess I'll just have to visit other volunteers to have the "wilderness experience" I was imagining.
I only have one week left with my host family which is exciting and upsetting all at the same time. I'm very excited to get to my new place and have some alone time. I am surrounded by people constantly. I have not been alone for more than an hour since I've been here (besides sleeping) which is starting to make me a little crazy. I just have to remind myself that I will be alone all of the time when I get to Rosignol so I should take advantage of the time I have left with my host family. They really are amazing women and they've taught me so much in the little time I have known them. I'm going to miss playing Uno every night and watching Oprah with them!
Last weekend we had "culture day" at Lake Mainstay Resort. It was a lot of fun! I was able to teach some Guyanese Children how to play Ultimate and swim around. The water at the lake is called Black Water. It's supposed to be very healing but it smelled funny and the bottom of the lake was nasty. You couldn't really stand up because it was so soft you just sink down. We had a fashion show where one of the guys in our group strutted his stuff in a diaper. It was a beautiful thing and one of the highlights of my time here thus far.
Some frustrating events that happened at home have caused me to do some serious introspection. It's crazy how an experience like this can make you re-evaluate who you are completely. I find that I am constantly questioning my beliefs and behaviors here. I think a lot of it is because I am surrounded by people who don't really know me yet, and because I'm not totally comfortable around them I haven't been my self. I'm quiet and shy here (didn't think that was ever possible) and don't know what to say or how to express myself. Before coming here I was so confidant in who I was and who I would become. But being here makes me doubt... it's very humbling. I look at this situation as an opportunity for self-improvement. I wanted to come here to find out who I really am and what I want in life and I think it's completely natural to have these doubts at some point in life. I think this experience will only make me stronger.
Regardless of these doubts. I really am enjoying my time here. I have made some amazing friends and have learned to celebrate the little things in life (ie: having normal bowel movements). AND I'm slowly learning some Creolese. Nah take no worries man is like the Guayanese version of Hakuna Matatta. I'm learning how to cook some delicious Guyanese dishes and Roushanna has taught me some sweet dance moves (I taught her the running man). I saw the largest spider the other night and only screamed a little :).
Next week we have our "swearing in" where I officially become a Volunteer!!!!! I am so happy to be finished with training! Although I am going to miss seeing everyone every day.
Okay! I think that's about all that is new in my world. Hope everyone is doing well! Peace and soooooo much love :)
-Annie
Sunday, March 7, 2010
1 Month!!!
The past couple of weeks since I last wrote have flown by! Last week we received our site packets which included all of the information we need to know about each site where we might be placed. It was very overwhelming, but I have narrowed it down to my top 5 sites and my bottom 3. Now, I have to write an essay to convince my placement officers to put me in my top 5 and not in my bottom 3. Hurray for homework!
For the past week, I was on my host volunteer visit. Where I stayed with a current volunteer, went to work with her, met members of her community etc. It was AMAZING! I am so glad I got the chance to see what it's actually going to be like once I'm finished with training. My host volunteer is a bad-ass. She works at a health center in the mornings and a secondary school in the afternoons. She also gives free pilates lessons to the women in her community 3 days a week. She lives right out side of New Amsterdam, which is the second largest city in Guyana. I loved the location and am hoping to be place in that region.
I got there on Saturday and my host volunteer's neighbors took us to this place called New Forrest. The Canje river flows through it and it was beautiful! One of the boys with us shimmied up a coconut tree and threw some down for us to eat. The father, chopped them up with his cutlass and we drank the milk straight out of it and tried the jelly inside (delicious!). Then I had a guava from a tree, fished with a net (didn't catch anything) and ate cane. It was so much fun!
On Monday, we celebrated the Hindu holiday Phagwah (pronounced pog-wa). Basically all you do is run around throwing different colored powder on anyone who wants to play. It was so much fun! I was covered from head to foot and had an orange stained upper lip for a couple of days (looked like I had a sweet stache growing). My host volunteer also had a pet dog named Riesling. She is the cutest thing ever and I plan on taking her once her owner leaves. She's a Peace Corps pup and has been passed down from other volunteers for years. Let's see... what else was awesome about my visit... I had salad twice! I had 7 curry for the first time. I went to a parade. I played catch phrase with some other volunteers. I got to weigh babies and help new mothers join the clinic. I got to read "Are you my Mother?" to some 2nd graders, I laid in a hammock for hours and I met some really cool people.
I got back to the coast yesterday and even though I had an amazing time on my visit, it's good to be back. My host family is so happy to have me here. It's nice to feel so loved!
I still miss everyone every day. But am starting to feel like I can finally call Guyana home. I hope everyone is doing well! I love and miss you all:)
For the past week, I was on my host volunteer visit. Where I stayed with a current volunteer, went to work with her, met members of her community etc. It was AMAZING! I am so glad I got the chance to see what it's actually going to be like once I'm finished with training. My host volunteer is a bad-ass. She works at a health center in the mornings and a secondary school in the afternoons. She also gives free pilates lessons to the women in her community 3 days a week. She lives right out side of New Amsterdam, which is the second largest city in Guyana. I loved the location and am hoping to be place in that region.
I got there on Saturday and my host volunteer's neighbors took us to this place called New Forrest. The Canje river flows through it and it was beautiful! One of the boys with us shimmied up a coconut tree and threw some down for us to eat. The father, chopped them up with his cutlass and we drank the milk straight out of it and tried the jelly inside (delicious!). Then I had a guava from a tree, fished with a net (didn't catch anything) and ate cane. It was so much fun!
On Monday, we celebrated the Hindu holiday Phagwah (pronounced pog-wa). Basically all you do is run around throwing different colored powder on anyone who wants to play. It was so much fun! I was covered from head to foot and had an orange stained upper lip for a couple of days (looked like I had a sweet stache growing). My host volunteer also had a pet dog named Riesling. She is the cutest thing ever and I plan on taking her once her owner leaves. She's a Peace Corps pup and has been passed down from other volunteers for years. Let's see... what else was awesome about my visit... I had salad twice! I had 7 curry for the first time. I went to a parade. I played catch phrase with some other volunteers. I got to weigh babies and help new mothers join the clinic. I got to read "Are you my Mother?" to some 2nd graders, I laid in a hammock for hours and I met some really cool people.
I got back to the coast yesterday and even though I had an amazing time on my visit, it's good to be back. My host family is so happy to have me here. It's nice to feel so loved!
I still miss everyone every day. But am starting to feel like I can finally call Guyana home. I hope everyone is doing well! I love and miss you all:)
Monday, February 22, 2010
Dancin' In the Rain
I have been so busy everyday, it's hard to write on this thing regularly. Here are some of the things I've been doing in no particular order...
Last week I went to visit a maternal clinic for "at-risk" pregnancies. I was able to sit in on a patient-nurse consultation and it was very interesting. The mother to be had recently had malaria and because the medicine could harm the baby, she wasn't able to get treatment. She seemed like she was doing well and after the consultation the nurse determined that the baby would be fine and so would the mother. It was great to be in an actual clinic and get a taste of what I could be doing. After the interview, we were able to watch the doctors examine the patients and ask questions. All of this reminded me of why I came here and made me very excited to get to my site and actually start working!
On the same day I went to the clinic, I came home and it started to rain! I got so excited I made my host family run outside and dance in it with me. They think I am very peculiar but seemed to enjoy the dancing. Especially my host mother Gewndalyn. That women can cut a rug!
On Saturday we learned how to grow some local vegetables and take care of chickens! I'm definitely planning on having a garden of my own complete with hens and plenty of fresh eggs. After the gardening lesson, I convinced some of the other trainees to play some ultimate with me. It was such a release to play. I needed it!! Everyone seemed to enjoy it and they want to play again on Wednesday. Woot Woot!
I taught my host family how to play UNO yesterday and they loved it (thanks Dana!). Tonight they are going to teach me some Guyanese games and we might even play Monopoly (fingers crossed).
Tomorrow is Mashrmani (AKA Mash), Guyana's independence day. My host family is taking me to Anna Regina (pronunced like vagina but with an r... cracks me up every time!)to watch the parade and celebrate like a true Guyanese. I am very excited to see all of the costumes and take part in the celebration!
So life here in Guyana is going great. I still miss home every day, but take so much comfort in the support I'm receiving from everyone. I'm having burrito and Sierra Nevada withdrawls so those of you in Chico should hit up Pepe or 8th and Pine and wash it down with a delicious brew of your choice! Thinking of you all everday:)
Last week I went to visit a maternal clinic for "at-risk" pregnancies. I was able to sit in on a patient-nurse consultation and it was very interesting. The mother to be had recently had malaria and because the medicine could harm the baby, she wasn't able to get treatment. She seemed like she was doing well and after the consultation the nurse determined that the baby would be fine and so would the mother. It was great to be in an actual clinic and get a taste of what I could be doing. After the interview, we were able to watch the doctors examine the patients and ask questions. All of this reminded me of why I came here and made me very excited to get to my site and actually start working!
On the same day I went to the clinic, I came home and it started to rain! I got so excited I made my host family run outside and dance in it with me. They think I am very peculiar but seemed to enjoy the dancing. Especially my host mother Gewndalyn. That women can cut a rug!
On Saturday we learned how to grow some local vegetables and take care of chickens! I'm definitely planning on having a garden of my own complete with hens and plenty of fresh eggs. After the gardening lesson, I convinced some of the other trainees to play some ultimate with me. It was such a release to play. I needed it!! Everyone seemed to enjoy it and they want to play again on Wednesday. Woot Woot!
I taught my host family how to play UNO yesterday and they loved it (thanks Dana!). Tonight they are going to teach me some Guyanese games and we might even play Monopoly (fingers crossed).
Tomorrow is Mashrmani (AKA Mash), Guyana's independence day. My host family is taking me to Anna Regina (pronunced like vagina but with an r... cracks me up every time!)to watch the parade and celebrate like a true Guyanese. I am very excited to see all of the costumes and take part in the celebration!
So life here in Guyana is going great. I still miss home every day, but take so much comfort in the support I'm receiving from everyone. I'm having burrito and Sierra Nevada withdrawls so those of you in Chico should hit up Pepe or 8th and Pine and wash it down with a delicious brew of your choice! Thinking of you all everday:)
Friday, February 12, 2010
Settelin' In... but me na speak no creolese mon
I'm slowly feeling more and more comfortable here. I have bonded with some of the other volunteers and am feeling quite at home with my host family.
Training has been interesting. Today we learned about all sorts of different creatures that can bite us at night and cause some serious vector-bourne illnesses, worms and infections (yum!). Thank goodness for mosquito nets (and anti-malarials). We also learned about the goals the Peace Corps and other non profit organizations have set for improvin the health of the Guyanese people. It is inspiring and exciting to see the ambitious goals they have set and know that I can somehow be a part of it, even if it is in a small way.
I've realized that they Guyanese people are very in to American pop-culture. I watch Oprah with my host family everyday after training and am constantly hearing hip-hop blaring out of the cars that pass by. On the drive in today, my driver was rocking out to some sweet 80's tunes, singing at the top of his lungs. I couldn't stop laughing. The people here are so full of life, and are constantly smiling and greeting me. It's good to know they want me to be here and welcome me into their community.
I found out today that the way people dispose of their garbage is by throwing it into the ocean. Full bags of garbage just dumped in with no thought of where it is going or the problems it could be causing the ecosystem. I just keep picturing that island of plastic bags growing. I'm hoping once I get to my actual site to have my secondary focus be on reducing waste and increasing compost and re-using containers they normally throw into the water and am hoping to set up a community garden. There are so many things here that need improvement, I think I'll be plenty busy.
It's finally the weekend, and I look forward to playing cricket tomorrow with some of the local boys. I might even bring my discs out and have teach them how to play ultimate.
I'm still missing home alot, but am feeling more and more established everyday. Please keep commenting and e-mailing. It's great to hear people's imput on my new life! I should be updating this pretty regularly because I found an internet cafe a block away from my house.
I hope you are all happy and healthy! Love and miss you all:)
Training has been interesting. Today we learned about all sorts of different creatures that can bite us at night and cause some serious vector-bourne illnesses, worms and infections (yum!). Thank goodness for mosquito nets (and anti-malarials). We also learned about the goals the Peace Corps and other non profit organizations have set for improvin the health of the Guyanese people. It is inspiring and exciting to see the ambitious goals they have set and know that I can somehow be a part of it, even if it is in a small way.
I've realized that they Guyanese people are very in to American pop-culture. I watch Oprah with my host family everyday after training and am constantly hearing hip-hop blaring out of the cars that pass by. On the drive in today, my driver was rocking out to some sweet 80's tunes, singing at the top of his lungs. I couldn't stop laughing. The people here are so full of life, and are constantly smiling and greeting me. It's good to know they want me to be here and welcome me into their community.
I found out today that the way people dispose of their garbage is by throwing it into the ocean. Full bags of garbage just dumped in with no thought of where it is going or the problems it could be causing the ecosystem. I just keep picturing that island of plastic bags growing. I'm hoping once I get to my actual site to have my secondary focus be on reducing waste and increasing compost and re-using containers they normally throw into the water and am hoping to set up a community garden. There are so many things here that need improvement, I think I'll be plenty busy.
It's finally the weekend, and I look forward to playing cricket tomorrow with some of the local boys. I might even bring my discs out and have teach them how to play ultimate.
I'm still missing home alot, but am feeling more and more established everyday. Please keep commenting and e-mailing. It's great to hear people's imput on my new life! I should be updating this pretty regularly because I found an internet cafe a block away from my house.
I hope you are all happy and healthy! Love and miss you all:)
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Finally Here and Able to Write!
I'm here! In Guyana and it is BEAUTIFUL and hot as a mother:) So far we have been very busy with training which is good because it's keeping me from being too homesick. We flew into Georgetown on Sunday morning and were staying at a resort up until yesterday. Then we took a bus and a boat to get up to the Esquibo Coast (North West of Georgetown)where we met our host families. My family consists of Gwendalyn, Wanda and Rashanda. A mother and two daughters, one 22 and one 15. They live about 15 minutes away from our training sight in Queenstown. It is great to be here and experience some real Guyanese culture from a local family. Last night they taught me how to make roti, a flakey tortilla that they use to eat curries such... no untensils for me, just roti! There are goats, cows, horses and dogs wandering around the streets and keeping me up until the wee hours of the morning. As well as "cock-crows" with their morning wake up calls. So far, the mosquitos haven't been too bad and I haven't ecountered bed bugs or spiders of any sort (whew!). Being with my host family last night made me miss home quite a bit. But I'm staying positive and focusing on getting through one day at a time. Any e-mails with words of encouragement and support would be greatly appreciated during my "downs" of the emotional roller coaster ride I'm on. I miss you all so much and will keep you updated as regularly as possible:) Tell the US I say hello and have a slice o' pizza for dear old Annie.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Almost gone...
I left Chico today. It was very strange saying bye to some of the most influential people I met. Here I am sitting in Tahoe, and my mind is running wild. I've been distracting myself from the thought of leaving for the past month and now it's finally time for me to sit down and think about this huge commitment I have decided to make. And why not put all of my crazy thoughts in a blog for all of these influential people to read!?!
I have wanted to join the Peace Corps for as long as I can remember. The reasoning for it was simple: I want to experience a new culture and help those in need. But it's become much more than that. I'm doing to this to learn more about myself than I ever thought possible, to challenge myself beyond my capacity, to develop relationships with people and learn from them, and to get out of the U.S. and experience the "real world". When I really think about it, I'm doing this to help myself much more than other people.
My brother told me the other day that doing things that are scary, are the things that are worth doing. Which is good because I am TERRIFIED. The thought of leaving everything and everyone I know behind to do this seems crazy to me right now. But when I take a step back and think about the real reasons I'm doing this my doubts fade. I know this is what I should be doing and that brings me peace of mind. And thinking about how amazing it's going to be to come back in 2 years (which will fly by) and see all of the wonderful things my loved ones are doing is so exciting.
So there it is... my first blog. I promise it will get more exciting and I will try to keep you all updated as regularly as possible on this thing with all of my tales of adventure!
Love you all,
Annie Banannie
I have wanted to join the Peace Corps for as long as I can remember. The reasoning for it was simple: I want to experience a new culture and help those in need. But it's become much more than that. I'm doing to this to learn more about myself than I ever thought possible, to challenge myself beyond my capacity, to develop relationships with people and learn from them, and to get out of the U.S. and experience the "real world". When I really think about it, I'm doing this to help myself much more than other people.
My brother told me the other day that doing things that are scary, are the things that are worth doing. Which is good because I am TERRIFIED. The thought of leaving everything and everyone I know behind to do this seems crazy to me right now. But when I take a step back and think about the real reasons I'm doing this my doubts fade. I know this is what I should be doing and that brings me peace of mind. And thinking about how amazing it's going to be to come back in 2 years (which will fly by) and see all of the wonderful things my loved ones are doing is so exciting.
So there it is... my first blog. I promise it will get more exciting and I will try to keep you all updated as regularly as possible on this thing with all of my tales of adventure!
Love you all,
Annie Banannie
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