June 4, 2011
Happy Half Way to into the year everybody! Not really a reason to celebrate, but why not make it one?
I made it back from P.G. safely and timely. The rest of the week at the office was basically HIV/AIDS training, including presentations by yours truly and the rest of team “Health Yeah”. Though really redundant, I feel like a lot of non-health sector members learned a lot.
I both started and finished a new book called Water for Elephants in less than 48 hours. It was pretty phenomenal. I enjoyed the story and it was beautifully written. I recommend it. Oddly enough there’s some sort of Circus/Rodeo in town today, but I just can’t bring myself to go. Tonight, I and a few other trainees that have also read the book are going to watch the movie that was just released and I’m pretty excited, even though I’ve never been much of a Reese Witherspoon fan. I also bought about 7 new books for my Kindle (still arguably the best purchase I have ever made).
So the week coming up is pretty exciting. We have dinner at the Ambassador’s house AND swearing in – the final step from when I go from Trainee to official Volunteer (a proud moment indeed). The rest of the week is tying up loose ends (like handing in my analysis on my site in Camalote) and some fun (Apparently we have a talent show and superlatives).
On a completely separate and more self-reflective note, today I was forced to stop and look in the mirror (most homes here don’t have mirrors, and if they do, they’re not large). There were a few things I noticed. One, I barely recognized myself and it took a while to figure out why. Two, my hair is getting really long – I’m not sure if I should cut it or spend the rest of my time here growing it for Locks of Love. Three, despite the carb and sugar heavy diet, I think I lost a few more pounds (I’ll check my weight on Monday). Fourthly, despite a switch in toothpaste and my already strict dental hygiene routine, I’m still unsure of what is making my teeth less white. Fifthly, somehow, someway, I am sort of getting a tan, as there are visible tan lines on my skin. I wear sunscreen every single day, but alas, I am starting to get a glow to my skin. I like being crazy pale to the point where people ask me if I sparkle in the sunlight, so I hope this trend does not continue. And lastly and most importantly, I look and feel really happy.
That’s all I’ve got for now. I hope everyone is doing well.
Until Next Time…
Peace Out.
Currently Reading - haven’t decided what book now – I might go back to Sense and Sensibility, or just start something new.
Band of the Week - Radiohead
First post from Punta Gorda
May 29, 2011
Good morning all.
So, here’s the belated big update.
As you all probably know by now, I have received my final assignment and I am going to be working at the District Education Office in Punta Gorda Town (PG) in the Toledo district. I am super excited. I just found this out this past Tuesday.
Punta Gorda is a town of about 5,000 people and it’s right on the Caribbean Sea at the very southern part of Belize. You can see both Guatemala and Honduras from here (for real – not like how Sarah Palin says she can see Russia from her house). People here are very friendly, but there are a fair amount of tourists, so I have to set myself apart and make sure people know I’m a PCV and not just a tourist. I will also have to be flexible when finding housing, as housing is very expensive here and I may get overcharged because the landlord may assume I have money because they think I’m a tourist or because I am white. This is not meant to be racist, this is just the truth. It doesn’t matter what ethnicity you are, if you have an American accent, you’re rich. A Belizian will definitely be house hunting with me.
Also, my mailing address WILL be changing, so that will be announces soon. I can still get mail at the current address, but will have a new one soon as Belmopan is a 5 hour trip away and I will only be there every few months.
On Wednesday we had a few programs at the office and I had to pack my things to be sent to PG. Then on Thursday I got up super early and took the 5 hour trek to PG to meet my counterparts. They are wonderful and I’m really lucky to have such great counterparts.
On Friday I spent some more time with my counterparts and met my new host family. My new house is different from my last, but the family is very loving and kind.
Yesterday I spent the day with one of my counterparts seeing the town, the market on market day and some schools. We also went out to a Garifuna town called Baranco and saw a small museum there. Today I will be visiting some other places TBA with my main counterpart. I’ve got some time until that happens, as schedules change and I must remain flexible. Monday and Tuesday are unknown and I head back to Belmopan for my final 10 days on Wednesday morning.
That’s all I’ve got for now. I hope everyone is doing well. Keep writing me (I still like letters). Love you all. Until next time…
Peace Out.
Band of the Week – The Cranberries
Currently Reading – Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
Good morning all.
So, here’s the belated big update.
As you all probably know by now, I have received my final assignment and I am going to be working at the District Education Office in Punta Gorda Town (PG) in the Toledo district. I am super excited. I just found this out this past Tuesday.
Punta Gorda is a town of about 5,000 people and it’s right on the Caribbean Sea at the very southern part of Belize. You can see both Guatemala and Honduras from here (for real – not like how Sarah Palin says she can see Russia from her house). People here are very friendly, but there are a fair amount of tourists, so I have to set myself apart and make sure people know I’m a PCV and not just a tourist. I will also have to be flexible when finding housing, as housing is very expensive here and I may get overcharged because the landlord may assume I have money because they think I’m a tourist or because I am white. This is not meant to be racist, this is just the truth. It doesn’t matter what ethnicity you are, if you have an American accent, you’re rich. A Belizian will definitely be house hunting with me.
Also, my mailing address WILL be changing, so that will be announces soon. I can still get mail at the current address, but will have a new one soon as Belmopan is a 5 hour trip away and I will only be there every few months.
On Wednesday we had a few programs at the office and I had to pack my things to be sent to PG. Then on Thursday I got up super early and took the 5 hour trek to PG to meet my counterparts. They are wonderful and I’m really lucky to have such great counterparts.
On Friday I spent some more time with my counterparts and met my new host family. My new house is different from my last, but the family is very loving and kind.
Yesterday I spent the day with one of my counterparts seeing the town, the market on market day and some schools. We also went out to a Garifuna town called Baranco and saw a small museum there. Today I will be visiting some other places TBA with my main counterpart. I’ve got some time until that happens, as schedules change and I must remain flexible. Monday and Tuesday are unknown and I head back to Belmopan for my final 10 days on Wednesday morning.
That’s all I’ve got for now. I hope everyone is doing well. Keep writing me (I still like letters). Love you all. Until next time…
Peace Out.
Band of the Week – The Cranberries
Currently Reading – Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
Books and Movies List
As I mentioned a few times before, I am posting my books read and movies watched list. I am not listing anything I've read more than once, more than once, same goes for movies. I will update again in a few months.
I hope you all enjoy it. Also, please don't judge the movies. Sometimes you just watch what you've got.
Books I’ve Read:
1) The Sex Lives of Cannibals by Maarten Troost
2) Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
3) Wicked by Gregory Maguire
4) The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Movies I’ve watched:
1) Megamind
2) Jackass 3D
3) Baby’s Day Out
4) Some lifetime movie about a psycho lady in love with her teacher.
5) Black Swan
6) What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
7) Ann Rule’s Too Late to Say Goodbye
8) Good Hair
9) Showtime
10) Code Monkeys Season 1
11) House Season 1
12) Failure to Launch
13) He’s Just Not That Into You
14) Wanted
15) The Social Network
16) Up (Jesse I wear my Ellie Badge every time I watch this movie and sometime when I’m not watching)
17) My Sisters Keeper
18) The Ugly Truth
I hope you all enjoy it. Also, please don't judge the movies. Sometimes you just watch what you've got.
Books I’ve Read:
1) The Sex Lives of Cannibals by Maarten Troost
2) Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
3) Wicked by Gregory Maguire
4) The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Movies I’ve watched:
1) Megamind
2) Jackass 3D
3) Baby’s Day Out
4) Some lifetime movie about a psycho lady in love with her teacher.
5) Black Swan
6) What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
7) Ann Rule’s Too Late to Say Goodbye
8) Good Hair
9) Showtime
10) Code Monkeys Season 1
11) House Season 1
12) Failure to Launch
13) He’s Just Not That Into You
14) Wanted
15) The Social Network
16) Up (Jesse I wear my Ellie Badge every time I watch this movie and sometime when I’m not watching)
17) My Sisters Keeper
18) The Ugly Truth
My awesome week (thus far)
May 19, 2011
I’m happy to announce I’ve had a wonderful week since Sunday. Hopefully this update doesn’t jinx it.
Sunday the family had a really awesome BBQ at the house and the food was delicious. I ate a ton, but consider my severe lack of appetite lately due to the wonderful (not sarcastic) heat, a good splurge was needed.
Monday was back to class. The morning was Kriol lessons, the afternoon I had to do a presentation for an 8th grade class with a fellow volunteer Steve. We taught the HFLE (Health and Family Life Education) class regarding the topic of managing difficult situations. Typically the class isn’t very participatory or even responsive. I’m not sure if it was because they didn’t have class that morning because their teacher showed up, or because we held class outside, or maybe if it was just us, but they were wonderful. They participated, asked questions, and really seemed to listen. One class member asked us about the Peace Corps as a whole when we were done and we explained to the class what we’ve been doing at their school and in their community the past 6 weeks. We even got 2 sincere students who said “Thank You”. That right there made up for all the lows I’ve been having and gave me hope that once I get to my final site in a few weeks and start my job, I’ll be having many more of those moments.
Tuesday wasn’t that special, but it was a good day.
Wednesday I had a lot of fun with my Kriol presentation. I had to do an entire presentation in Kriol, it was supposed to be 10 minutes, but it went a little longer. We played Jeopardy and I came up with some fun questions. The rest of the group seemed to have fun too. That afternoon I went to Belmopan to check out some places at the market. I mailed my first package to the U.S., so hopefully in about a month it will get to its destination without any trouble. I also bought a ton of post cards. I have a batch going out on Friday to several friends that I promised mail to, who haven’t gotten any yet. I also have the rest of the letters, postcards and cards addressed and stamped, but not written yet, so batch #3 will go out next week. While in Belmopan, my Kriol was complimented by the man in the post office helping me mail my package as well as the Chairman of my village who I ran into about 20 minutes later. This made me feel really good, because I have been working on it and I do feel really comfortable speaking it, so it was a moment of pride for me and made me feel like all my work is actually worth something.
As a whole, I feel like something just clicked lately and I’m feeling much more at home here in Belize. I still don’t think it’ll truly feel real until I’m in my final placement and am settled in my own place, but Belizian norms aren’t stressing me out like they were and the culture shock is fading mildly and new norms are forming. I’m starting to do something that wasn’t even in my vocabulary back in the U.S. and that would be the word “relax”. I kind of like it too.
Today (Thursday) has been a pretty chill day. It’s crazy hot, so I haven’t gotten much accomplished outside of doing my laundry and getting a pedicure. Hopefully when the sun goes down I’ll be able to knock out a bunch of work that I need to do on one of my final projects.
Tomorrow I’ll get up super early to head to Belmopan for the market. I have to get some ingredients for the side dish I’m making for Saturday’s host family appreciation dinner. Also, I’m going cave tubing on Monday, so hopefully I’ll find some secondhand capris or something. I’ve got tops to wear over my suit, just need some bottoms. Worst comes to worst I’ll wear some really long capris I’ve got. Or maybe some of the packages Christina sent with the rest of my clothes will finally get here, so let’s hope. I’m still afraid they were stolen due to the fact she sent them over a month ago and everyone else’s packages are getting here between 2-3 weeks. I really hope not though.
Some more super good news though, I’m getting my first visitor!!!! He’s not coming until November, but one my awesome friends already booked a flight and is visiting me! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!
Also, on this upcoming Tuesday, I’ll find out where my final placement is and where I’ll be working the next 2 years. Hopefully, it’s somewhere awesome, and by awesome, I mean a really good fit for me, my personality and skills.
On one last completely random side note; for those of my friends who love to read as much as I do, please, read The Alchemist if you haven’t already. It’s really wonderful and inspirational.
Also, I’ve decided this week deserves a band of the week posting: and it goes to Audioslave.
I’ll post some info on Tuesday once I learn where my site is and where I’ll be working. Kathy and Mom, I’ll just call you.
And one last thing, a big shout out to my sister Peggy. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!
I think I’m done now.
Until next time…
Peace Out.
I’m happy to announce I’ve had a wonderful week since Sunday. Hopefully this update doesn’t jinx it.
Sunday the family had a really awesome BBQ at the house and the food was delicious. I ate a ton, but consider my severe lack of appetite lately due to the wonderful (not sarcastic) heat, a good splurge was needed.
Monday was back to class. The morning was Kriol lessons, the afternoon I had to do a presentation for an 8th grade class with a fellow volunteer Steve. We taught the HFLE (Health and Family Life Education) class regarding the topic of managing difficult situations. Typically the class isn’t very participatory or even responsive. I’m not sure if it was because they didn’t have class that morning because their teacher showed up, or because we held class outside, or maybe if it was just us, but they were wonderful. They participated, asked questions, and really seemed to listen. One class member asked us about the Peace Corps as a whole when we were done and we explained to the class what we’ve been doing at their school and in their community the past 6 weeks. We even got 2 sincere students who said “Thank You”. That right there made up for all the lows I’ve been having and gave me hope that once I get to my final site in a few weeks and start my job, I’ll be having many more of those moments.
Tuesday wasn’t that special, but it was a good day.
Wednesday I had a lot of fun with my Kriol presentation. I had to do an entire presentation in Kriol, it was supposed to be 10 minutes, but it went a little longer. We played Jeopardy and I came up with some fun questions. The rest of the group seemed to have fun too. That afternoon I went to Belmopan to check out some places at the market. I mailed my first package to the U.S., so hopefully in about a month it will get to its destination without any trouble. I also bought a ton of post cards. I have a batch going out on Friday to several friends that I promised mail to, who haven’t gotten any yet. I also have the rest of the letters, postcards and cards addressed and stamped, but not written yet, so batch #3 will go out next week. While in Belmopan, my Kriol was complimented by the man in the post office helping me mail my package as well as the Chairman of my village who I ran into about 20 minutes later. This made me feel really good, because I have been working on it and I do feel really comfortable speaking it, so it was a moment of pride for me and made me feel like all my work is actually worth something.
As a whole, I feel like something just clicked lately and I’m feeling much more at home here in Belize. I still don’t think it’ll truly feel real until I’m in my final placement and am settled in my own place, but Belizian norms aren’t stressing me out like they were and the culture shock is fading mildly and new norms are forming. I’m starting to do something that wasn’t even in my vocabulary back in the U.S. and that would be the word “relax”. I kind of like it too.
Today (Thursday) has been a pretty chill day. It’s crazy hot, so I haven’t gotten much accomplished outside of doing my laundry and getting a pedicure. Hopefully when the sun goes down I’ll be able to knock out a bunch of work that I need to do on one of my final projects.
Tomorrow I’ll get up super early to head to Belmopan for the market. I have to get some ingredients for the side dish I’m making for Saturday’s host family appreciation dinner. Also, I’m going cave tubing on Monday, so hopefully I’ll find some secondhand capris or something. I’ve got tops to wear over my suit, just need some bottoms. Worst comes to worst I’ll wear some really long capris I’ve got. Or maybe some of the packages Christina sent with the rest of my clothes will finally get here, so let’s hope. I’m still afraid they were stolen due to the fact she sent them over a month ago and everyone else’s packages are getting here between 2-3 weeks. I really hope not though.
Some more super good news though, I’m getting my first visitor!!!! He’s not coming until November, but one my awesome friends already booked a flight and is visiting me! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!
Also, on this upcoming Tuesday, I’ll find out where my final placement is and where I’ll be working the next 2 years. Hopefully, it’s somewhere awesome, and by awesome, I mean a really good fit for me, my personality and skills.
On one last completely random side note; for those of my friends who love to read as much as I do, please, read The Alchemist if you haven’t already. It’s really wonderful and inspirational.
Also, I’ve decided this week deserves a band of the week posting: and it goes to Audioslave.
I’ll post some info on Tuesday once I learn where my site is and where I’ll be working. Kathy and Mom, I’ll just call you.
And one last thing, a big shout out to my sister Peggy. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!
I think I’m done now.
Until next time…
Peace Out.
To keep this blog or not to keep this blog
Unless I can figure out the privacy preferences, I may have to shut down this blog.
More updates on this later.
More updates on this later.
Sand Flies are pure evil
May 12, 2011
Hello friends and family!
I’ve got a nice long update for you all.
So lots of things have been going on, as usual both positive and negative. I’ll try to do this somewhat chronologically, but we’ll touch on a few main events.
Last I updated we were about to have midway evaluation sessions and getting our volunteer visit assignments. Well, I was able to do both.
The midway training evaluation was fine. Overall I did just fine, it was just stressful because in certain areas I have struggled and it was pointed out strongly again, even though I’ve improved vastly. I just would have liked them to say at least one positive thing instead of only commenting on the negative, because there are far more things I’m doing right than wrong, and that’s not just my opinion, it was reflected in the evaluation. It’s just stressful because I feel like I’m being judged way too harshly sometimes. Different things work for different people and as long as I’m trying my best to get along in this new society, there should be more focus on the positive instead of just negative.
On a positive note, I GOT A GUITAR!!!! Yes, really. I have my very own, almost paid off, used, parlor sized acoustic guitar. I don’t have a tuner, but I’m going to try to find a computer program for that online, that way I can start playing again, which will make me exponentially happy. I am going to post pictures. For those who don’t know, I actually name my guitars, but I’m not sure what to name this one, so I’m taking suggestions. Please post them in the comments section and I’ll pick the one I like best.
On the topic of music, I also found a nice man that works at the market with his wife that has very similar taste in music that I do. He enjoys a lot of classic rock and roll like I do (and I’m hooking him up with some Beatles music), knows who King Crimson and Adrian Belew are and likes the jazz rock (like BRMC and The Black Keys) that I like. I have a feeling I will be stopping by to chat about music with him and his wife every time I go to the market now, and there will be swapping of burned CD’s.
Also, it was confirmed that my Mom got the flowers I sent her for Mother’s Day and loved them, along with the note I sent. That made my week better to know that I made someone smile.
Our classroom in Camalote where we train was broken into a third time in 3 weeks, after we even put new locks on the door. They used a crow bar and stole more things than they have so far, so now we can’t keep nice things there. I also realized tonight that one of those things was my PC issued Kriol dictionary. Hopefully the PC will issue me a new one.
So two Fridays ago we were told where we are going to visit.
So this past weekend I got to go visit a nice fellow PCV in a small rural Q’etchi village down in Toledo called Medina Bank. It was a village of 250 residents with no modern amenities. It was kind of like camping, except with way more sand flies (which are evil by the way). It was a lot different than what I have had lately living with my host family in Camalote, but I enjoyed the fact that it was something new. I learned how to do my laundry in a river, I actually got to go IN a river for the first time (not in a boat), and l learned a little about vegetarian cooking (no meat if you don’t have a fridge). I just wish I could have learned a little more about the PCV experience as a whole, instead of just specific to village life, but I think that will come from talking to all types of volunteers as everyone has a completely unique experience. I definitely had fun and learned a few things. One major thing though, I hope everyone knows that sand flies are PURE evil. Even if you have bug spray on, they will eat you alive. I currently have a whopping 92 bites on my body, most of which are below my knees, but there are many random ones too and they all itch, really badly. I’m going to talk to Nurse Jackie today about further management of my lovely bites and if there’s anything outside Benadryl and Hydrocortisone that I can do.
As soon as I got back from there it was time to get into hyper drive for the Health Fair we’ve been planning in our village, which was taking place the day after it returned. Of course things come up, one of our fellow group members got sick (but he’s better now) so we were a man down, but we held it together and raised almost $50 for the school. We had booths and raffles and I got to face paint the kids. Then the next day I took the bus out to meet the other health group in Succutz and help them at their health fair, but offering face painting as well. I really liked seeing their health fair too as we can always learn from others. Of course, it was a blast. Kids really enjoy face paint and now I know that any health fair I organize in the future must have a face paint booth.
Now I’m down to 12 days left with my host family (that I’ve bonded with a lot over the past 2 weeks) before I move out and learn what my final site assignment is. I’ve got 3 big projects to complete in these last 12 days, another crop of mail to send to those who I haven’t sent to yet, a dinner for my host family and learning some last minute things from my host mom (mainly involving the amazing flour tortillas she makes) and teaching her my Dad’s wonderful pasta sauce recipe, which I brought with me. Stressful? Yes. Worth it? Totally.
Everything else is going well. Training is good and I feel increasingly more comfortable in Kriol. I only speak English half the time I’m here and speak Kriol the rest. I picked it up pretty fast and I find myself wanting to use it more because of how comfortable I am with it. I even decided my favorite word – Macoabi – it actually has 2 meanings. Alone, the word Macoabi means to be lovesick or lovesickness. The phrase Macoabi seed means pumpkin seed. Since I enjoy both of these definitions and think the word sounds cool, I’ve decided, thus far it is my favorite word.
Anyway, I know this was another long update, so hopefully I didn’t put you all to sleep too badly. Thank you for reading. I miss you all dearly.
Until next time…
Peace Out.
Hello friends and family!
I’ve got a nice long update for you all.
So lots of things have been going on, as usual both positive and negative. I’ll try to do this somewhat chronologically, but we’ll touch on a few main events.
Last I updated we were about to have midway evaluation sessions and getting our volunteer visit assignments. Well, I was able to do both.
The midway training evaluation was fine. Overall I did just fine, it was just stressful because in certain areas I have struggled and it was pointed out strongly again, even though I’ve improved vastly. I just would have liked them to say at least one positive thing instead of only commenting on the negative, because there are far more things I’m doing right than wrong, and that’s not just my opinion, it was reflected in the evaluation. It’s just stressful because I feel like I’m being judged way too harshly sometimes. Different things work for different people and as long as I’m trying my best to get along in this new society, there should be more focus on the positive instead of just negative.
On a positive note, I GOT A GUITAR!!!! Yes, really. I have my very own, almost paid off, used, parlor sized acoustic guitar. I don’t have a tuner, but I’m going to try to find a computer program for that online, that way I can start playing again, which will make me exponentially happy. I am going to post pictures. For those who don’t know, I actually name my guitars, but I’m not sure what to name this one, so I’m taking suggestions. Please post them in the comments section and I’ll pick the one I like best.
On the topic of music, I also found a nice man that works at the market with his wife that has very similar taste in music that I do. He enjoys a lot of classic rock and roll like I do (and I’m hooking him up with some Beatles music), knows who King Crimson and Adrian Belew are and likes the jazz rock (like BRMC and The Black Keys) that I like. I have a feeling I will be stopping by to chat about music with him and his wife every time I go to the market now, and there will be swapping of burned CD’s.
Also, it was confirmed that my Mom got the flowers I sent her for Mother’s Day and loved them, along with the note I sent. That made my week better to know that I made someone smile.
Our classroom in Camalote where we train was broken into a third time in 3 weeks, after we even put new locks on the door. They used a crow bar and stole more things than they have so far, so now we can’t keep nice things there. I also realized tonight that one of those things was my PC issued Kriol dictionary. Hopefully the PC will issue me a new one.
So two Fridays ago we were told where we are going to visit.
So this past weekend I got to go visit a nice fellow PCV in a small rural Q’etchi village down in Toledo called Medina Bank. It was a village of 250 residents with no modern amenities. It was kind of like camping, except with way more sand flies (which are evil by the way). It was a lot different than what I have had lately living with my host family in Camalote, but I enjoyed the fact that it was something new. I learned how to do my laundry in a river, I actually got to go IN a river for the first time (not in a boat), and l learned a little about vegetarian cooking (no meat if you don’t have a fridge). I just wish I could have learned a little more about the PCV experience as a whole, instead of just specific to village life, but I think that will come from talking to all types of volunteers as everyone has a completely unique experience. I definitely had fun and learned a few things. One major thing though, I hope everyone knows that sand flies are PURE evil. Even if you have bug spray on, they will eat you alive. I currently have a whopping 92 bites on my body, most of which are below my knees, but there are many random ones too and they all itch, really badly. I’m going to talk to Nurse Jackie today about further management of my lovely bites and if there’s anything outside Benadryl and Hydrocortisone that I can do.
As soon as I got back from there it was time to get into hyper drive for the Health Fair we’ve been planning in our village, which was taking place the day after it returned. Of course things come up, one of our fellow group members got sick (but he’s better now) so we were a man down, but we held it together and raised almost $50 for the school. We had booths and raffles and I got to face paint the kids. Then the next day I took the bus out to meet the other health group in Succutz and help them at their health fair, but offering face painting as well. I really liked seeing their health fair too as we can always learn from others. Of course, it was a blast. Kids really enjoy face paint and now I know that any health fair I organize in the future must have a face paint booth.
Now I’m down to 12 days left with my host family (that I’ve bonded with a lot over the past 2 weeks) before I move out and learn what my final site assignment is. I’ve got 3 big projects to complete in these last 12 days, another crop of mail to send to those who I haven’t sent to yet, a dinner for my host family and learning some last minute things from my host mom (mainly involving the amazing flour tortillas she makes) and teaching her my Dad’s wonderful pasta sauce recipe, which I brought with me. Stressful? Yes. Worth it? Totally.
Everything else is going well. Training is good and I feel increasingly more comfortable in Kriol. I only speak English half the time I’m here and speak Kriol the rest. I picked it up pretty fast and I find myself wanting to use it more because of how comfortable I am with it. I even decided my favorite word – Macoabi – it actually has 2 meanings. Alone, the word Macoabi means to be lovesick or lovesickness. The phrase Macoabi seed means pumpkin seed. Since I enjoy both of these definitions and think the word sounds cool, I’ve decided, thus far it is my favorite word.
Anyway, I know this was another long update, so hopefully I didn’t put you all to sleep too badly. Thank you for reading. I miss you all dearly.
Until next time…
Peace Out.
Bike Race and Gracie Rock
April 28, 2011
Hello my friends and family. How are you all? How are things in the U.S.?
I am writing you all to list some recent updates.
I’ve had another week of many ups and downs (as usual). I am struggling with a few things (natural when adjusting to a new country) and was also lucky enough to do a few cool things to break the normal boring monotony. I’ll try to balance these things out, but I apologize in advance if this is a long posting.
I’ve officially been here more than one month. It feels like at least 3. Time goes incredibly slowly here. It’s less stressful in some ways, but it’s particularly brutal others. There is absolutely nothing you can do about it either. People and things just move at a glacial pace. This is extremely difficult for Type A people like myself to handle. Any suggestions and input is always appreciated.
It has indeed – finally rained (though it was 107 degrees out while it rained according to the local weather report). It turns into a hot muddy steamy mess outside when this happens, but when the land and people are in desperate need of that rain, it becomes infinitely less important.
I am working on fixing my laptop. It’s not broken, but my Microsoft office decided that the key that came with the computer to initiate Microsoft Office, which I purchased, was INVALID. Therefore, I am actually going to have to re-purchase Microsoft Office. This is why I miss my desktop – it’s a mac. And once you go Mac, you never go back, despite all the perks a PC offers.
Training continues to move on. The projects are piling on, which is both good and bad. It’s good, because I like having things to do. It’s bad, because it is impossible to get anything done in my host home. There are far too many pikni (kids) running around, asking what you’re doing, banging on your door and making lots of noise. Nothing can be done at home. For this reason I am going to spend this weekend in the Peace Corps office strictly to bang out a few projects and be done with them. This is also a good time to contact me via e-mail or facebook because during my lunch hour, I will actually be responding to e-mails and messages.
Speaking of correspondence, I’ve got 17 letters going out today and I’ll have more ready to be sent out on Monday. As promised, if you sent me your address, I WILL send you at least 1 letter or post card, if not more. Bear with me, as these things do take time to be delivered as well as to write. Robert Eckman – I need your address again. It got lost among the facebook mail. Jim – I’m aiming to mail your envelope on Monday. I want to see if I can find any cool shells to put in it. Family – I sent your postcards out about 2 weeks ago, you should be getting them soon. Please let me know when you do so I can roughly time it. Also, feel free to write. I love getting letters. It makes me happy. I got my second piece yesterday – thanks for the comic Jim (assuming you sent it). If you haven’t already sent me your address and you want me to write to you, please either e-mail or facebook message it to me.
Just a reminder my address is:
(My Name)
Peace Corps
P.O. Box 492
Belmopan City, Belize
As for recent events, I had a few days off for Easter. That weekend was particularly brutal, due to the time just going slowly and not really being able to get too much done unless I was in the office. I did get some research done last Saturday because I went to the office. I had to wait until after the cross-country bike race passed my house not once, but twice, which was actually really cool to see. I took pictures. You know where to find them. I was actually really happy to get back to classes, though classes come with their own set of frustrations which I can’t really go into due to the public setting. On a positive note, I’m feeling much more confident speaking Kriol.
On Tuesday, team Health Yeah (the health sector) took a trip to Gracie Rock. It was amazing and beautiful. We learned about herbal medicines, took a nice hike through the forest and got to explore a cave, which I saw most, but not all of due to my claustrophobia kicking in. I was convinced there was going to be an earthquake, I was going to get trapped and die so I hightailed it out of there once things got too narrow. I saw what I needed though. Once again, I took many pictures, though sadly a lot of the cave ones are blurry because my camera was on the wrong setting. Sorry everyone, but I am trying. I got to see a fruit bat though.
I am looking forward to next weekend. The PC is letting us have a few days off from our host families and sending us to visit a current volunteer in country. I find out late Friday who I will be visiting and where in the country I will be exploring.
That’s really it for now. I love and miss you all more than you know. I hope things are going well in the states. Until next time…
Peace Out.
Hello my friends and family. How are you all? How are things in the U.S.?
I am writing you all to list some recent updates.
I’ve had another week of many ups and downs (as usual). I am struggling with a few things (natural when adjusting to a new country) and was also lucky enough to do a few cool things to break the normal boring monotony. I’ll try to balance these things out, but I apologize in advance if this is a long posting.
I’ve officially been here more than one month. It feels like at least 3. Time goes incredibly slowly here. It’s less stressful in some ways, but it’s particularly brutal others. There is absolutely nothing you can do about it either. People and things just move at a glacial pace. This is extremely difficult for Type A people like myself to handle. Any suggestions and input is always appreciated.
It has indeed – finally rained (though it was 107 degrees out while it rained according to the local weather report). It turns into a hot muddy steamy mess outside when this happens, but when the land and people are in desperate need of that rain, it becomes infinitely less important.
I am working on fixing my laptop. It’s not broken, but my Microsoft office decided that the key that came with the computer to initiate Microsoft Office, which I purchased, was INVALID. Therefore, I am actually going to have to re-purchase Microsoft Office. This is why I miss my desktop – it’s a mac. And once you go Mac, you never go back, despite all the perks a PC offers.
Training continues to move on. The projects are piling on, which is both good and bad. It’s good, because I like having things to do. It’s bad, because it is impossible to get anything done in my host home. There are far too many pikni (kids) running around, asking what you’re doing, banging on your door and making lots of noise. Nothing can be done at home. For this reason I am going to spend this weekend in the Peace Corps office strictly to bang out a few projects and be done with them. This is also a good time to contact me via e-mail or facebook because during my lunch hour, I will actually be responding to e-mails and messages.
Speaking of correspondence, I’ve got 17 letters going out today and I’ll have more ready to be sent out on Monday. As promised, if you sent me your address, I WILL send you at least 1 letter or post card, if not more. Bear with me, as these things do take time to be delivered as well as to write. Robert Eckman – I need your address again. It got lost among the facebook mail. Jim – I’m aiming to mail your envelope on Monday. I want to see if I can find any cool shells to put in it. Family – I sent your postcards out about 2 weeks ago, you should be getting them soon. Please let me know when you do so I can roughly time it. Also, feel free to write. I love getting letters. It makes me happy. I got my second piece yesterday – thanks for the comic Jim (assuming you sent it). If you haven’t already sent me your address and you want me to write to you, please either e-mail or facebook message it to me.
Just a reminder my address is:
(My Name)
Peace Corps
P.O. Box 492
Belmopan City, Belize
As for recent events, I had a few days off for Easter. That weekend was particularly brutal, due to the time just going slowly and not really being able to get too much done unless I was in the office. I did get some research done last Saturday because I went to the office. I had to wait until after the cross-country bike race passed my house not once, but twice, which was actually really cool to see. I took pictures. You know where to find them. I was actually really happy to get back to classes, though classes come with their own set of frustrations which I can’t really go into due to the public setting. On a positive note, I’m feeling much more confident speaking Kriol.
On Tuesday, team Health Yeah (the health sector) took a trip to Gracie Rock. It was amazing and beautiful. We learned about herbal medicines, took a nice hike through the forest and got to explore a cave, which I saw most, but not all of due to my claustrophobia kicking in. I was convinced there was going to be an earthquake, I was going to get trapped and die so I hightailed it out of there once things got too narrow. I saw what I needed though. Once again, I took many pictures, though sadly a lot of the cave ones are blurry because my camera was on the wrong setting. Sorry everyone, but I am trying. I got to see a fruit bat though.
I am looking forward to next weekend. The PC is letting us have a few days off from our host families and sending us to visit a current volunteer in country. I find out late Friday who I will be visiting and where in the country I will be exploring.
That’s really it for now. I love and miss you all more than you know. I hope things are going well in the states. Until next time…
Peace Out.
Xunantunich
April 19, 2011
Hey everyone.
So, it’s still crazy hot. I had to downgrade my sunscreen and now I’m starting to change colors. My hair has officially become a curly hot mess, but I’m embracing it. It’s also changing colors as well, but pretty colors, unlike my skin. Make-up, hair dryers, hair straighteners are all mystical items that are only for special occasions because 5 minutes in this beautiful Caribbean weather and all your work is undone. By the way, it still hasn’t rained.
Things are better with my host family, so my stress level is now down dramatically and I am much happier. I have a lot more control over my diet now, so I’m physically feeling better as well (far less digestive issues).
On Sunday I did some cool things. I took the bus up to Succutz with some other Peace Corps Trainees and we hiked up the Xunantunich ruins. It was one of the top 5 most terrifying things I’ve done, but I did climb all the way to the top of the ruin. It was quite exciting when all was said and done, but coming down was just as scary as going up. I also saw an iguana, a wish willy, a red rump tarantula (POISONOUS) and some howler monkeys. Pictures of most of those animals and a video of the monkey will be up on my facebook page.
I miss everyone at home, but I am slowly getting used to Belize. There are some nights I’d do almost anything for certain American luxuries, but I just deal with it and go enjoy a Belizian luxury, like coconut water or check out the night sky (so clear!).
Also, I got my first piece of mail from home!!! So a big shout out to the Bankers, Jaclyn, Alyssa, Kerry, Chuck and Maria. Your card made me smile and your kind words are much appreciated! I just bought a bunch of postcards, so I’ll be writing them out and mailing them soon as long as I have your address. It’ll probably take about a month to get there, so don’t feel unloved.
That’s all I’ve really got for now. I’m going to post my movies and books update soon, when it gets slightly more substantial. There’s no point as of yet.
That’s all I’ve got for now. Love you all. Until next time, Peace Out.
Hey everyone.
So, it’s still crazy hot. I had to downgrade my sunscreen and now I’m starting to change colors. My hair has officially become a curly hot mess, but I’m embracing it. It’s also changing colors as well, but pretty colors, unlike my skin. Make-up, hair dryers, hair straighteners are all mystical items that are only for special occasions because 5 minutes in this beautiful Caribbean weather and all your work is undone. By the way, it still hasn’t rained.
Things are better with my host family, so my stress level is now down dramatically and I am much happier. I have a lot more control over my diet now, so I’m physically feeling better as well (far less digestive issues).
On Sunday I did some cool things. I took the bus up to Succutz with some other Peace Corps Trainees and we hiked up the Xunantunich ruins. It was one of the top 5 most terrifying things I’ve done, but I did climb all the way to the top of the ruin. It was quite exciting when all was said and done, but coming down was just as scary as going up. I also saw an iguana, a wish willy, a red rump tarantula (POISONOUS) and some howler monkeys. Pictures of most of those animals and a video of the monkey will be up on my facebook page.
I miss everyone at home, but I am slowly getting used to Belize. There are some nights I’d do almost anything for certain American luxuries, but I just deal with it and go enjoy a Belizian luxury, like coconut water or check out the night sky (so clear!).
Also, I got my first piece of mail from home!!! So a big shout out to the Bankers, Jaclyn, Alyssa, Kerry, Chuck and Maria. Your card made me smile and your kind words are much appreciated! I just bought a bunch of postcards, so I’ll be writing them out and mailing them soon as long as I have your address. It’ll probably take about a month to get there, so don’t feel unloved.
That’s all I’ve really got for now. I’m going to post my movies and books update soon, when it gets slightly more substantial. There’s no point as of yet.
That’s all I’ve got for now. Love you all. Until next time, Peace Out.
Pray for Rain
April 14, 2011
So, sorry I haven’t posted in a bit. As you probably surmised, I don’t typically have an internet connection.
First - a friendly reminder that if you want to see pictures, go check my facebook. They’ll be there and my albums are public. http://www.facebook.com/slevineightnine
So it still hasn’t rained since I got here. I’ll probably be kicking myself for being sad about that once rainy season hits and I cry myself to sleep during massive hurricanes. The song “Pray for Rain” by Massive Attack is consistently running through my head.
I’ve had a few lows, mainly involving issues with my host family and the PC staff and their role regarding the issues with my host family, but most of those have cleared up. We’ll see how the ones that haven’t resolve themselves. The projects are piling on though so hopefully those will be enough to distract me, captain Type A analytical learner from some of my frustrations. I’ve been keeping my head up though and I remind myself how blessed I am to be having this wonderful experience.
There are a few major things I’m looking forward too though, putting in the garden at the school, the health fair, PCV visit weekend, finding out what my final site will be, visiting my final site and in due time…VISITORS!!!! You should all be working on getting your passports right now if you don’t already have one.
Some things I’ve gotten used to are drinking obscene amounts of water, “Belizian/Caribbean time”, adorable geckos, cold showers, SOME bugs, the heat, waking up at 5AM and being asleep by 10PM, not being able to go out at night, malaria meds and understanding Kriol.
Some things I know I will never get used to no matter how hard I try are tarantulas, scorpions, giant grasshoppers that make obnoxious noises, snakes, bug bites and the bats that have a nest over my room and make scary noises, wake me up and give me nightmares – basically CREEPY CRITTERS!!!!!!
I’ve been able to do some cool things though. I’ve adventured around Camalote and Belmopan a bit as well. I got to spend a day at the Ministry of Agriculture learning about how to make organic insecticides and composting and learned a lot more Kriol, though I still sound like an American, but I don’t think that will ever change. Last week all of the PC’s and some host families went out and did KAREOKE at one of the only places in Belize that actually has Kareoke. I’ve also started a list of book s I’ve read, movies I’ve watched and random life goals. I will share said lists periodically as they are an ongoing process. Also, though I am still on a hunt for a guitar (which is only pointing to Guatemala right now) I did find a nice neighbor named Colin who worked with the PC in the past that will let me go practice on a guitar that’s just sitting around not being loved by anyone at his business, which happens to be right across the street.
I miss everyone in the states though. However, for those who don’t know, I do have this neat thing called a CELL PHONE. If you’re interested in calling me, incoming calls are free for me and I bought a ton of credits so I can actually call people too. Just contact me for that magic sequence of digits.
I also have a few requests for all my friends out there. The first one is simple. My file with everyone’s addresses got corrupted in the switch over to a PC so I need them re-sent. Send them either via facebook or to Harford.Stephanie.pcbz@gmail.com and then you shall receive mail in return. Along those lines, I like receiving mail, so please, send away! Some things I’d like to receive are:
-Letters filled with love from awesome people (pretty please)
-Books (Once read they will be donated to the PC library or a local school library)
-Other media
-Jigsaw puzzles
- Nutella
-Almond Butter
-Guitar tabs
-No ouchie hair ties
-Stationary and envelopes (so I can send mail! – no need to be fancy – loose leaf paper and envelopes work too)
- Band aid brand antibiotic band aids (they’re neon colored, you can’t miss them and they’re amazing)
-Equate (generic brand) contact solution
- Clean & Clear face wash
- High SPF sunscreen
Keep in mind you will be reimbursed for these items, it just may take several weeks for reimbursement to arrive in the mail.
To respond to one of my comments (which I read diligently): Stranger whose girlfriend is in PC with me here in Belize, who is your lady? This way at least I have some sort of reference point as to who you are
I’m also making a promise to make these blog posts more frequent as well as more detailed and interesting instead of being written in a rush like this one.
Last, but not least, I’d like to give a random shout out to Jay’s Dad. Your son told me you read my blog so I promised him I’d give you a shout out. What’s up homeskillet?
I love and miss you all and I hope to hear from you all soon, so until next time…
Peace Out.
So, sorry I haven’t posted in a bit. As you probably surmised, I don’t typically have an internet connection.
First - a friendly reminder that if you want to see pictures, go check my facebook. They’ll be there and my albums are public. http://www.facebook.com/slevineightnine
So it still hasn’t rained since I got here. I’ll probably be kicking myself for being sad about that once rainy season hits and I cry myself to sleep during massive hurricanes. The song “Pray for Rain” by Massive Attack is consistently running through my head.
I’ve had a few lows, mainly involving issues with my host family and the PC staff and their role regarding the issues with my host family, but most of those have cleared up. We’ll see how the ones that haven’t resolve themselves. The projects are piling on though so hopefully those will be enough to distract me, captain Type A analytical learner from some of my frustrations. I’ve been keeping my head up though and I remind myself how blessed I am to be having this wonderful experience.
There are a few major things I’m looking forward too though, putting in the garden at the school, the health fair, PCV visit weekend, finding out what my final site will be, visiting my final site and in due time…VISITORS!!!! You should all be working on getting your passports right now if you don’t already have one.
Some things I’ve gotten used to are drinking obscene amounts of water, “Belizian/Caribbean time”, adorable geckos, cold showers, SOME bugs, the heat, waking up at 5AM and being asleep by 10PM, not being able to go out at night, malaria meds and understanding Kriol.
Some things I know I will never get used to no matter how hard I try are tarantulas, scorpions, giant grasshoppers that make obnoxious noises, snakes, bug bites and the bats that have a nest over my room and make scary noises, wake me up and give me nightmares – basically CREEPY CRITTERS!!!!!!
I’ve been able to do some cool things though. I’ve adventured around Camalote and Belmopan a bit as well. I got to spend a day at the Ministry of Agriculture learning about how to make organic insecticides and composting and learned a lot more Kriol, though I still sound like an American, but I don’t think that will ever change. Last week all of the PC’s and some host families went out and did KAREOKE at one of the only places in Belize that actually has Kareoke. I’ve also started a list of book s I’ve read, movies I’ve watched and random life goals. I will share said lists periodically as they are an ongoing process. Also, though I am still on a hunt for a guitar (which is only pointing to Guatemala right now) I did find a nice neighbor named Colin who worked with the PC in the past that will let me go practice on a guitar that’s just sitting around not being loved by anyone at his business, which happens to be right across the street.
I miss everyone in the states though. However, for those who don’t know, I do have this neat thing called a CELL PHONE. If you’re interested in calling me, incoming calls are free for me and I bought a ton of credits so I can actually call people too. Just contact me for that magic sequence of digits.
I also have a few requests for all my friends out there. The first one is simple. My file with everyone’s addresses got corrupted in the switch over to a PC so I need them re-sent. Send them either via facebook or to Harford.Stephanie.pcbz@gmail.com and then you shall receive mail in return. Along those lines, I like receiving mail, so please, send away! Some things I’d like to receive are:
-Letters filled with love from awesome people (pretty please)
-Books (Once read they will be donated to the PC library or a local school library)
-Other media
-Jigsaw puzzles
- Nutella
-Almond Butter
-Guitar tabs
-No ouchie hair ties
-Stationary and envelopes (so I can send mail! – no need to be fancy – loose leaf paper and envelopes work too)
- Band aid brand antibiotic band aids (they’re neon colored, you can’t miss them and they’re amazing)
-Equate (generic brand) contact solution
- Clean & Clear face wash
- High SPF sunscreen
Keep in mind you will be reimbursed for these items, it just may take several weeks for reimbursement to arrive in the mail.
To respond to one of my comments (which I read diligently): Stranger whose girlfriend is in PC with me here in Belize, who is your lady? This way at least I have some sort of reference point as to who you are
I’m also making a promise to make these blog posts more frequent as well as more detailed and interesting instead of being written in a rush like this one.
Last, but not least, I’d like to give a random shout out to Jay’s Dad. Your son told me you read my blog so I promised him I’d give you a shout out. What’s up homeskillet?
I love and miss you all and I hope to hear from you all soon, so until next time…
Peace Out.
My first few days of Peace Corps
March 27, 2011
Hello all. First and foremost I’d like to reassure you that I am alive and well. I have reached Belize safely, soundly and have been enjoying my first few days. I am happy, safe and healthy.
Staging was amazing in Dallas and I’m so lucky to have been placed with such a wonderful group of people here. Everyone in my group is amazing and I continue to look forward to getting to know them all more intimately as well as meeting and learning about and from the volunteers that are already here.
For those who feel like calling me, I will have a cell phone number tomorrow. It is free for me to receive calls, but costs a pretty penny to make calls.
I’ve already learned quite a bit here and I’d like to share some things about Belize and life in general. I will be doing this frequently throughout my journey. So here it goes;
- Watermelon and watermelon juice is delicious. Even if you don’t typically like watermelon.
- There is no speed limit in Belize, but there are speed bumps on the highway.
- Garifuna music and culture is rich.
- If you’re playing ultimate Frisbee in the park, don’t be surprised if your teams get vastly larger and those players end up being less than 4 feet tall and then instead of playing end up having you chase them around the field and give them piggy back rides.
- They do not use the metric system.
- Books are better than TV. I knew that already, but that sentiment is being strongly reinforced. I have a goal to read at least 100 books while here. Right now I am reading “The Sex Lives of Cannibals”. It’s hilarious.
- Rope is sold by the pound, laundry is most easily done in the sink or tub and you don’t need a clothesline if you have rope.
- Everything here is written in both English and Chinese.
- Don’t ask what something is, just eat it.
- There is a very large difference between ordering rice and beans versus beans and rice. Order wisely.
- Red Stripe beer is delicious.
- As is Belikin.
- Most people here make their own rum (No, I have not tried any…yet).
- Everyone is super nice.
- It’s hot, and that’s awesome.
- Good luck finding sunscreen over SPF 40.
- You can buy movies that are still in the theaters for about $2 USD. They are readily available. I have no idea what the quality is like though.
- The exchange rate is $1 USD = $2 BZD. Either is taken anywhere.
- Mail takes about 3 ½ to 4 weeks to get here and also be sent.
- 23% of the population has diabetes.
- The Caribbean Sea is warm and feels great on your feet.
- It is physically impossible to keep your feet clean for a period longer than 10 minutes if you’re walking anywhere, which you’ll be doing to get everywhere.
- Not every mosquito has malaria, but a lot do.
- Coconut water and Zucaritas (Frosted Flakes) is the breakfast of champions! (Opinion)
- There are various types of mangos. If it is not mango season it is hard to find them, but not impossible.
- Bugs are larger than you could ever possibly imagine. I think they were dipped in the same type of ooze the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were.
- Shampoo is cheap, conditioner is not.
- Stamps are 65 cents. I’m not sure if that’s USD or BZD yet.
- I’m in love with this country.
- The houses all are painted with awesome bright colors.
- Everything except a few stands and Chinese restaurants closes on Sunday.
- Easter and Christmas are the biggest holidays here.
- Skirts > Pants. Hands down.
- I love my life and have lived a very blessed life to date and continue to do so today. I’m truly lucky to be serving my country here and can’t wait to spend the next 2 years of my life here.
There are a few random missions I have as well. Here is what they are;
- See every country that borders Belize.
- Find a harmonica and learn how to play it.
- Find a guitar to practice my mad skills on.
- (Repeat) read at least 100 books.
- Learn to properly handle a machete
- Complete all entries in the book “List yourself’.
- More TBA.
That’s all for now. I love you all and miss you all very much. Just know all is well and such. Please do not hesitate to call or e-mail. I will update as frequently as possible.
Hello all. First and foremost I’d like to reassure you that I am alive and well. I have reached Belize safely, soundly and have been enjoying my first few days. I am happy, safe and healthy.
Staging was amazing in Dallas and I’m so lucky to have been placed with such a wonderful group of people here. Everyone in my group is amazing and I continue to look forward to getting to know them all more intimately as well as meeting and learning about and from the volunteers that are already here.
For those who feel like calling me, I will have a cell phone number tomorrow. It is free for me to receive calls, but costs a pretty penny to make calls.
I’ve already learned quite a bit here and I’d like to share some things about Belize and life in general. I will be doing this frequently throughout my journey. So here it goes;
- Watermelon and watermelon juice is delicious. Even if you don’t typically like watermelon.
- There is no speed limit in Belize, but there are speed bumps on the highway.
- Garifuna music and culture is rich.
- If you’re playing ultimate Frisbee in the park, don’t be surprised if your teams get vastly larger and those players end up being less than 4 feet tall and then instead of playing end up having you chase them around the field and give them piggy back rides.
- They do not use the metric system.
- Books are better than TV. I knew that already, but that sentiment is being strongly reinforced. I have a goal to read at least 100 books while here. Right now I am reading “The Sex Lives of Cannibals”. It’s hilarious.
- Rope is sold by the pound, laundry is most easily done in the sink or tub and you don’t need a clothesline if you have rope.
- Everything here is written in both English and Chinese.
- Don’t ask what something is, just eat it.
- There is a very large difference between ordering rice and beans versus beans and rice. Order wisely.
- Red Stripe beer is delicious.
- As is Belikin.
- Most people here make their own rum (No, I have not tried any…yet).
- Everyone is super nice.
- It’s hot, and that’s awesome.
- Good luck finding sunscreen over SPF 40.
- You can buy movies that are still in the theaters for about $2 USD. They are readily available. I have no idea what the quality is like though.
- The exchange rate is $1 USD = $2 BZD. Either is taken anywhere.
- Mail takes about 3 ½ to 4 weeks to get here and also be sent.
- 23% of the population has diabetes.
- The Caribbean Sea is warm and feels great on your feet.
- It is physically impossible to keep your feet clean for a period longer than 10 minutes if you’re walking anywhere, which you’ll be doing to get everywhere.
- Not every mosquito has malaria, but a lot do.
- Coconut water and Zucaritas (Frosted Flakes) is the breakfast of champions! (Opinion)
- There are various types of mangos. If it is not mango season it is hard to find them, but not impossible.
- Bugs are larger than you could ever possibly imagine. I think they were dipped in the same type of ooze the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were.
- Shampoo is cheap, conditioner is not.
- Stamps are 65 cents. I’m not sure if that’s USD or BZD yet.
- I’m in love with this country.
- The houses all are painted with awesome bright colors.
- Everything except a few stands and Chinese restaurants closes on Sunday.
- Easter and Christmas are the biggest holidays here.
- Skirts > Pants. Hands down.
- I love my life and have lived a very blessed life to date and continue to do so today. I’m truly lucky to be serving my country here and can’t wait to spend the next 2 years of my life here.
There are a few random missions I have as well. Here is what they are;
- See every country that borders Belize.
- Find a harmonica and learn how to play it.
- Find a guitar to practice my mad skills on.
- (Repeat) read at least 100 books.
- Learn to properly handle a machete
- Complete all entries in the book “List yourself’.
- More TBA.
That’s all for now. I love you all and miss you all very much. Just know all is well and such. Please do not hesitate to call or e-mail. I will update as frequently as possible.
Preparing for lift off!
Today - I leave today for Dallas, Texas and tomorrow to Belize.
The time has come!
So I'm off to staging. It's real and it's happening.
Packing was extremely difficult. Making the weight limit is really hard and I have to have some things shipped to me. My friend Christina is going to ship them to me.
On another random note, yesterday I had something crazy happen. My guitar was stolen from my storage unit. How do I know? I got a call from the store I've been taking lessons from for many years. Since my guitar is on the more unique side, they immediately knew it was mine. I checked the storage unit to confirm it was mission, the serial numbers matched up and the man who stole it was fired from the moving company and arrested. I tried to resolve it without the police, but unfortunately the only way to recover it was to press charges. It was sad, but I got Lucille back and she's now back in storage safely. So a public "Thank You" to Patrick McLaughlin and all the workers at Music Go Round.
So yeah, that's it. I'm headed to staging. I'm going to finish completing all my paperwork now, take a shower and head to the airport for my 7AM flight!
The time has come!
So I'm off to staging. It's real and it's happening.
Packing was extremely difficult. Making the weight limit is really hard and I have to have some things shipped to me. My friend Christina is going to ship them to me.
On another random note, yesterday I had something crazy happen. My guitar was stolen from my storage unit. How do I know? I got a call from the store I've been taking lessons from for many years. Since my guitar is on the more unique side, they immediately knew it was mine. I checked the storage unit to confirm it was mission, the serial numbers matched up and the man who stole it was fired from the moving company and arrested. I tried to resolve it without the police, but unfortunately the only way to recover it was to press charges. It was sad, but I got Lucille back and she's now back in storage safely. So a public "Thank You" to Patrick McLaughlin and all the workers at Music Go Round.
So yeah, that's it. I'm headed to staging. I'm going to finish completing all my paperwork now, take a shower and head to the airport for my 7AM flight!
As I lay here on the floor of my empty house
It's finally starting to sink in. I'm leaving for Belize on Wednesday. A majority of my life is officially in storage. Some things are in suitcases. I really hope I somehow make this 80lb limit with my 2 bags and my 2 carry-on bags.
I feel like a stranger in my own empty house. This week has been an emotional roller coaster. Especially in regards to my personal life. Why do matters of the heart always have to be so complicated? Why does love often require so much sacrifice?
*sigh*
Anyway, I best be getting on with my day. Still a lot to do.
I feel like a stranger in my own empty house. This week has been an emotional roller coaster. Especially in regards to my personal life. Why do matters of the heart always have to be so complicated? Why does love often require so much sacrifice?
*sigh*
Anyway, I best be getting on with my day. Still a lot to do.
It still feels like a dream
Less than a week...
In less than a week my whole world will be officially turned upside down. It still doesn't feel real, but I know when it hits me it'll be like a ton of bricks. The past few days have been really emotional though. That's the only part that seems real so far.
I started packing, my bedroom set is sold, my bookcases are sold and my desk will be picked up this weekend. my bedroom is so empty it actually echoes. I canceled my cable/internet and settled things with my bank. There's still so much to do and I'm super stressed, scared, excited, happy, sad, and I just plain don't know anymore. I had cold feet for a few hours today, but I got over it. Once I'm in country, I'm going to feel A LOT better. Until then I'm probably going to be the moody mess that I am, but this is my life and these are the choices I have made and I'm standing by them. It still just seems surreal.
I am excited to meet all my fellow Belize volunteers/future family next Wednesday at staging. Steve and Cathy, don't be surprised/scared when I run up and say "Hi!" and start talking to you out of the blue.
Alright, it's time to stop rambling and get some sleep. I have a long day of packing tomorrow with several runs to goodwill and consignment shops.
Until my next update...
Peace out.
In less than a week my whole world will be officially turned upside down. It still doesn't feel real, but I know when it hits me it'll be like a ton of bricks. The past few days have been really emotional though. That's the only part that seems real so far.
I started packing, my bedroom set is sold, my bookcases are sold and my desk will be picked up this weekend. my bedroom is so empty it actually echoes. I canceled my cable/internet and settled things with my bank. There's still so much to do and I'm super stressed, scared, excited, happy, sad, and I just plain don't know anymore. I had cold feet for a few hours today, but I got over it. Once I'm in country, I'm going to feel A LOT better. Until then I'm probably going to be the moody mess that I am, but this is my life and these are the choices I have made and I'm standing by them. It still just seems surreal.
I am excited to meet all my fellow Belize volunteers/future family next Wednesday at staging. Steve and Cathy, don't be surprised/scared when I run up and say "Hi!" and start talking to you out of the blue.
Alright, it's time to stop rambling and get some sleep. I have a long day of packing tomorrow with several runs to goodwill and consignment shops.
Until my next update...
Peace out.
10 days and a TON of work
In 10 days from now I'll be in Dallas, Texas having finished staging and getting ready for my flight to Belize.
I still have a million and one things to pack, but I did officially purchase suitable luggage and a raincoat. I desperately need shoes and business casual clothing. I also need to hit the gym really hard this week. I haven't worked out since the day before I left for NY and I'm packing on pounds from all the goodbye dinners. It's harsh. I feel icky.
Anyway, I spoke to one of my (many) sisters today that I don't really ever get to talk to, but it was actually a really nice conversation. She's neither against nor for me going to the Peace Corps, she just wants me to be careful. That's all she asks, well that and Skype her kids, which shouldn't even have to be a request, just a given. I want to see all my friends, but my movers are booked for Sunday, so I really, really need to get packing...like...NOW.
I DID sell my bedroom set to a really nice family though. They're going to pick it up sometime this week. My TV will be going to Vinny and I'm probably just going to give him my blu-ray player because I think he'd really like it. There haven't been any interested buyers, and I'd like to know it'll go to a good home. Also KITTEN HAS A HOME!!!! My friend Christina is going to move into my place, so BAMF won't even have to leave. She just gets to stay here! I'm going to miss her. let's hope I can find a home for my living room furniture now.
I also accidentally made an awesome new pen-pal this weekend with a nice man who is currently serving our country overseas with the military. He wrote an inquiry about the bedroom set I was selling and we got to chatting outside the sale and we're going to be e-mail pals :-) I love meeting new people, so this excites me.
On a more serious note... my thoughts and prayers go out to Japan. What a nightmare they must be having right now and it doesn't seem to be over yet.
Anyway, I'm keeping this update short a) because my last one was so long and b) I need to go pack! AHHH!
More updates later this week!
I still have a million and one things to pack, but I did officially purchase suitable luggage and a raincoat. I desperately need shoes and business casual clothing. I also need to hit the gym really hard this week. I haven't worked out since the day before I left for NY and I'm packing on pounds from all the goodbye dinners. It's harsh. I feel icky.
Anyway, I spoke to one of my (many) sisters today that I don't really ever get to talk to, but it was actually a really nice conversation. She's neither against nor for me going to the Peace Corps, she just wants me to be careful. That's all she asks, well that and Skype her kids, which shouldn't even have to be a request, just a given. I want to see all my friends, but my movers are booked for Sunday, so I really, really need to get packing...like...NOW.
I DID sell my bedroom set to a really nice family though. They're going to pick it up sometime this week. My TV will be going to Vinny and I'm probably just going to give him my blu-ray player because I think he'd really like it. There haven't been any interested buyers, and I'd like to know it'll go to a good home. Also KITTEN HAS A HOME!!!! My friend Christina is going to move into my place, so BAMF won't even have to leave. She just gets to stay here! I'm going to miss her. let's hope I can find a home for my living room furniture now.
I also accidentally made an awesome new pen-pal this weekend with a nice man who is currently serving our country overseas with the military. He wrote an inquiry about the bedroom set I was selling and we got to chatting outside the sale and we're going to be e-mail pals :-) I love meeting new people, so this excites me.
On a more serious note... my thoughts and prayers go out to Japan. What a nightmare they must be having right now and it doesn't seem to be over yet.
Anyway, I'm keeping this update short a) because my last one was so long and b) I need to go pack! AHHH!
More updates later this week!
Extremely long update about NYC and Belize
First off, I'm leaving for Belize in 13 days and I really need to get moving, literally moving, packing and such. All my friends whoa re awesome want to hang out, but I really need to pack, pack, pack.
So, I've been MIA for a week, but for good reason. I flew home to NYC. Here are the crazy adventures I had in NYC.
Wednesday: I flew in on my scheduled flight and all went well. I didn't sleep that much that night, so I slept the whole plane ride. Right before boarding one of my sisters said I can't stay at my parents that night because my foster mom is sick. My foster dad had it a few days earlier, so it was to be expected. A plane flight, $60 cab ride and much hassle later, I'm on Long Island at my youngest nephew's school. My other sister met me there and I ended up spending the night with her and her family. I enjoyed it because I got to spend time with her kids, who I adore, even though they didn't recognize me at first. I slept on my nieces floor. I didn't want to leave because my foster mom claimed she felt better, but I knew she was lying and since I don't have health insurance, I'd rather not become ill. My sister had mercy, helped me load up on vitamins and airborne, which I then proceeded to take several of (way over dosage) for the remainder of my trip.
Things I learned on Wednesday: My 5 year old nephew wants to open a candy store and thinks I'm 77. My niece at the tender age of 11, is extremely bright and has a wonderful personality. She's extremely kind, loving and has an interesting wit. Airborne, despite the lawsuit, is still your friend when it comes to preventing illness.
Thursday: Unwillingly I went to my foster parents. HUGE mistake. My foster mom was not feeling better despite what she said and now that I was exposed, I wouldn't be able to see the kids again. Also her temperment has gotten even nastier with age. Lots of things were said under her breath (as if the entire room could not hear them) and it was just a really, negative experience and extremely hard for me to deal with. Luckily, that night my friend Mike came to rescue me, I was brought to the amazing place known as 24 hour bagel for my one and only glorious bagel of the trip. We then went to NYC and saw The Book of Mormon. AMAZING show. I haven't laughed that hard in YEARS. It really helped me balance out the negativity of the day. I then returned to my foster parents house to learn I get to sleep on the couch, which means no privacy, lots of noise from clocks and coffee makers (and I'm a heavy sleeper) and just an awkward situation.
What I learned on Thursday: Biting your tongue every 5 seconds sucks, but it can be done, however it really affects your mood and is physically exhausting. I will never own a coffee maker because they are loud, or a clock that chimes, that's just annoying. Matt Stone and Trey Parker are geniuses.
On Friday I began to plan my escape. Thanks to one of my best friends, Meghan, I had a new place to sleep as of Saturday. So Friday I had to suffer through a really boring day at the house with no means of escape. So I spent my day reading and getting ready, then took a train out to some extended family's house. My cousin Clare and her family are amazing people and I was really looking forward to seeing them. I took a 2 hour train ride from Long island, to Queens, then back out to Long Island because that's the only way to get there, but it was worth it. Trains don't bother me. I made it out there and I got to spend some time with Clare and 2 of her children, Katie, who I've been close with since we were young, and Becca, who has turned into a beautiful young woman since I last saw her as a tiny tot. We spent lots of time talking, i got to meet Katie's son, who is 6 weeks old and it was just a really happy, positive time. Also, I got to eat NY pizza. Yay! It was tons of fun, but sadly only a few hours as train schedules to that part of the island are sparse. Back on the train I went and back to the couch with the coffee maker and clock of doom.
What I learned on Friday: Babies have amazing powers and motherhood can be really wonderful for those who choose that path. My kindle is amazing as well and really helped me keep my sanity. my cousin and her family are truly wonderful and caring people, but I knew that, but reinforcement never hurts :-)
So finally Saturday comes (a big day), and this is the day where all the family is supposed to come out and that night is my party and my escape to Brooklyn. So that night/morning I was woken up by my foster Mom several times being sick, crying because she is weak, and being sick even more. I felt bad, but since I was banned from upstairs and I didn't want to get sick, I tried to sleep through it. The next morning I told my sister-in-law I didn't want her, my 6 month old niece, or my brother coming because the last thing we need is the baby getting sick. I wanted to protect her, because no matter what anyone claims, there was some serious nasty illness in the air, nasty where it could really endanger an infant. This will come into play later. So 2 of my sisters that I haven't seen yet are coming today, one with her kids. So I got to see my eldest nephew and eldest niece, both wonderful young adults. They've grown so much and they're extremely intelligent. I'm so proud of them and I'm glad I got to see them and spend a little time with them. Also, my sister Kathy and her husband Matthew, my blessings, drove 4 hours from Pennsylvania to see me!!! I was really looking forward to it and it meant a lot. I really enjoyed chatting with them too. Kathy gave me some rosary beads and a prayer card they had blessed for me and asked me to take it to Belize with me. They then offered me a ride to Meghan's, so I said my germ filed goodbye's and we then spent a nice long car ride to Brooklyn chatting and saying our goodbyes. Kathy and I both somehow kept our wits about us. I really thought either one or both of us was going to cry, but somehow we managed, even though I really wanted to. I'm really going to miss her. So I get to Meghan's and I see her and Sabi (her roommate and also my friend) and it's all happiness and excitement!!! We went out to dinner, came back, got ready then headed to the city for my Bon Voyage party. Several of my friends showed up and we drank, ate, wandered about and had a grand old time. It was AMAZING. I truly felt loved. So to all those who made the trek, Barry, Jake, Mike and Kel-Kel, thank you for coming. It was wonderful and I wish the night lasted forever. I love you all, truly. Eventually it was back to Brooklyn to wind down and eventually sleep.
What I learned Saturday: My eldest niece and nephew have grown into wonderful people, Kathy and Matthew continue to amaze me with how much love and respect they give to those around them, my friends are wonderful and I love them all, 24 hour diners in the city are wonderful, pineapples filled with alcohol are tasty, especially when shared.
Sunday was a nice lazy Sunday. We all slept in, but I got up reasonably early and read some of a book in my Kindle. I was supposed to meet my sister in law, baby niece, and brother that night for dinner. That quickly changed. I was talking to my sister in law and all systems seemed go, then she made me call my brother, who screamed at me because the whole family was there Saturday with my sick foster Mom. Everyone there was an adult, did not have the immune system of a 6 month old and kept their physical distance. He then cussed at me, told me how disgusted he was with me for going to the Peace Corps, that he didn't want me anywhere near his daughter, etc. so loudly that Meghan could hear it in the other room and Sabi who was in the same room was just shocked because she could hear every word. After about 2 minutes, I just hung up, surprisingly with my wits about me and walked away from my phone. He called back, but I never answered. I stood by that and my friends stood by me and my decision, which was nice. I informed my sister-in-law briefly of what happened and that I would no longer be in contact with any of them. I feel bad because the baby didn't do anything to deserve this, but that's a toxic situation and I want no part of it. The rest of the day was spent going to brunch and watching tv/movies with the ladies. It was a wonderful lazy Sunday.
What I learned Sunday: Sometimes, you have to make your own family. Meghans' infamous words reinforced :-) Brunch is amazing and I learned what compote is, and that it's tasty.
Monday was a nice, stress free day. Meghan took off of work and we went to MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) in the city. It was a wonderful time wandering around and checking out all the exhibits. I got to see Van Gogh's starry night!! I also got to see a lot of Pollock, Warhol and Picasso. It was nice. We then went to a coffee shop, did some shopping (where I got some cute things for Belize) and met up with Sabi for dinner in Brooklyn. We all went back to the apartment, spent some time together and I prepped for departure the next morning.
What I learned on Monday: Starry Night is at MOMA, MOMA is awesome, NY pizza is still awesome, my friends are still amazing and I'm really lucky to have them.
Finally my trip is coming to an end, HOMEWARD BOUND! I got up early and went with Meghan to the train. We split up in Jamaica and off I went to JFK, 6 1/2 hours early. I checked my bags and went through security quickly. I then found a nice place to eat breakfast and decided to have a mimosa. The bartender was a really nice guy, we talked about my Peace Corps adventures, his life, my life and it really is amazing the people you meet in airports. I've always liked airports because I felt they were magical. A place where so many journeys begin and end. A place where chapters of peoples lives are opened, closed, expanded. A place for reunions and new beginnings. I enjoyed my time in JFK, talking to the restaurant staff and my new bartender friend. He asked for my info, so I gave him this blog site and my e-mail address. Who knows, maybe I'll hear from my new friend :-) If you're reading this, it was wonderful meeting you and I do hope to hear from you. Eventually I made it home and I was exhausted. I did a little packing and lots of TV watching.
What I learned on Tuesday: Airports are magical, mimosas are deadly and you never know who you might meet. Also, I really missed being here in Ohio.
And that was my trip. If you've made it to the end of this, congratulations!! I owe you a cookie. I need to go to bed. Until next time, Peace Out!
So, I've been MIA for a week, but for good reason. I flew home to NYC. Here are the crazy adventures I had in NYC.
Wednesday: I flew in on my scheduled flight and all went well. I didn't sleep that much that night, so I slept the whole plane ride. Right before boarding one of my sisters said I can't stay at my parents that night because my foster mom is sick. My foster dad had it a few days earlier, so it was to be expected. A plane flight, $60 cab ride and much hassle later, I'm on Long Island at my youngest nephew's school. My other sister met me there and I ended up spending the night with her and her family. I enjoyed it because I got to spend time with her kids, who I adore, even though they didn't recognize me at first. I slept on my nieces floor. I didn't want to leave because my foster mom claimed she felt better, but I knew she was lying and since I don't have health insurance, I'd rather not become ill. My sister had mercy, helped me load up on vitamins and airborne, which I then proceeded to take several of (way over dosage) for the remainder of my trip.
Things I learned on Wednesday: My 5 year old nephew wants to open a candy store and thinks I'm 77. My niece at the tender age of 11, is extremely bright and has a wonderful personality. She's extremely kind, loving and has an interesting wit. Airborne, despite the lawsuit, is still your friend when it comes to preventing illness.
Thursday: Unwillingly I went to my foster parents. HUGE mistake. My foster mom was not feeling better despite what she said and now that I was exposed, I wouldn't be able to see the kids again. Also her temperment has gotten even nastier with age. Lots of things were said under her breath (as if the entire room could not hear them) and it was just a really, negative experience and extremely hard for me to deal with. Luckily, that night my friend Mike came to rescue me, I was brought to the amazing place known as 24 hour bagel for my one and only glorious bagel of the trip. We then went to NYC and saw The Book of Mormon. AMAZING show. I haven't laughed that hard in YEARS. It really helped me balance out the negativity of the day. I then returned to my foster parents house to learn I get to sleep on the couch, which means no privacy, lots of noise from clocks and coffee makers (and I'm a heavy sleeper) and just an awkward situation.
What I learned on Thursday: Biting your tongue every 5 seconds sucks, but it can be done, however it really affects your mood and is physically exhausting. I will never own a coffee maker because they are loud, or a clock that chimes, that's just annoying. Matt Stone and Trey Parker are geniuses.
On Friday I began to plan my escape. Thanks to one of my best friends, Meghan, I had a new place to sleep as of Saturday. So Friday I had to suffer through a really boring day at the house with no means of escape. So I spent my day reading and getting ready, then took a train out to some extended family's house. My cousin Clare and her family are amazing people and I was really looking forward to seeing them. I took a 2 hour train ride from Long island, to Queens, then back out to Long Island because that's the only way to get there, but it was worth it. Trains don't bother me. I made it out there and I got to spend some time with Clare and 2 of her children, Katie, who I've been close with since we were young, and Becca, who has turned into a beautiful young woman since I last saw her as a tiny tot. We spent lots of time talking, i got to meet Katie's son, who is 6 weeks old and it was just a really happy, positive time. Also, I got to eat NY pizza. Yay! It was tons of fun, but sadly only a few hours as train schedules to that part of the island are sparse. Back on the train I went and back to the couch with the coffee maker and clock of doom.
What I learned on Friday: Babies have amazing powers and motherhood can be really wonderful for those who choose that path. My kindle is amazing as well and really helped me keep my sanity. my cousin and her family are truly wonderful and caring people, but I knew that, but reinforcement never hurts :-)
So finally Saturday comes (a big day), and this is the day where all the family is supposed to come out and that night is my party and my escape to Brooklyn. So that night/morning I was woken up by my foster Mom several times being sick, crying because she is weak, and being sick even more. I felt bad, but since I was banned from upstairs and I didn't want to get sick, I tried to sleep through it. The next morning I told my sister-in-law I didn't want her, my 6 month old niece, or my brother coming because the last thing we need is the baby getting sick. I wanted to protect her, because no matter what anyone claims, there was some serious nasty illness in the air, nasty where it could really endanger an infant. This will come into play later. So 2 of my sisters that I haven't seen yet are coming today, one with her kids. So I got to see my eldest nephew and eldest niece, both wonderful young adults. They've grown so much and they're extremely intelligent. I'm so proud of them and I'm glad I got to see them and spend a little time with them. Also, my sister Kathy and her husband Matthew, my blessings, drove 4 hours from Pennsylvania to see me!!! I was really looking forward to it and it meant a lot. I really enjoyed chatting with them too. Kathy gave me some rosary beads and a prayer card they had blessed for me and asked me to take it to Belize with me. They then offered me a ride to Meghan's, so I said my germ filed goodbye's and we then spent a nice long car ride to Brooklyn chatting and saying our goodbyes. Kathy and I both somehow kept our wits about us. I really thought either one or both of us was going to cry, but somehow we managed, even though I really wanted to. I'm really going to miss her. So I get to Meghan's and I see her and Sabi (her roommate and also my friend) and it's all happiness and excitement!!! We went out to dinner, came back, got ready then headed to the city for my Bon Voyage party. Several of my friends showed up and we drank, ate, wandered about and had a grand old time. It was AMAZING. I truly felt loved. So to all those who made the trek, Barry, Jake, Mike and Kel-Kel, thank you for coming. It was wonderful and I wish the night lasted forever. I love you all, truly. Eventually it was back to Brooklyn to wind down and eventually sleep.
What I learned Saturday: My eldest niece and nephew have grown into wonderful people, Kathy and Matthew continue to amaze me with how much love and respect they give to those around them, my friends are wonderful and I love them all, 24 hour diners in the city are wonderful, pineapples filled with alcohol are tasty, especially when shared.
Sunday was a nice lazy Sunday. We all slept in, but I got up reasonably early and read some of a book in my Kindle. I was supposed to meet my sister in law, baby niece, and brother that night for dinner. That quickly changed. I was talking to my sister in law and all systems seemed go, then she made me call my brother, who screamed at me because the whole family was there Saturday with my sick foster Mom. Everyone there was an adult, did not have the immune system of a 6 month old and kept their physical distance. He then cussed at me, told me how disgusted he was with me for going to the Peace Corps, that he didn't want me anywhere near his daughter, etc. so loudly that Meghan could hear it in the other room and Sabi who was in the same room was just shocked because she could hear every word. After about 2 minutes, I just hung up, surprisingly with my wits about me and walked away from my phone. He called back, but I never answered. I stood by that and my friends stood by me and my decision, which was nice. I informed my sister-in-law briefly of what happened and that I would no longer be in contact with any of them. I feel bad because the baby didn't do anything to deserve this, but that's a toxic situation and I want no part of it. The rest of the day was spent going to brunch and watching tv/movies with the ladies. It was a wonderful lazy Sunday.
What I learned Sunday: Sometimes, you have to make your own family. Meghans' infamous words reinforced :-) Brunch is amazing and I learned what compote is, and that it's tasty.
Monday was a nice, stress free day. Meghan took off of work and we went to MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) in the city. It was a wonderful time wandering around and checking out all the exhibits. I got to see Van Gogh's starry night!! I also got to see a lot of Pollock, Warhol and Picasso. It was nice. We then went to a coffee shop, did some shopping (where I got some cute things for Belize) and met up with Sabi for dinner in Brooklyn. We all went back to the apartment, spent some time together and I prepped for departure the next morning.
What I learned on Monday: Starry Night is at MOMA, MOMA is awesome, NY pizza is still awesome, my friends are still amazing and I'm really lucky to have them.
Finally my trip is coming to an end, HOMEWARD BOUND! I got up early and went with Meghan to the train. We split up in Jamaica and off I went to JFK, 6 1/2 hours early. I checked my bags and went through security quickly. I then found a nice place to eat breakfast and decided to have a mimosa. The bartender was a really nice guy, we talked about my Peace Corps adventures, his life, my life and it really is amazing the people you meet in airports. I've always liked airports because I felt they were magical. A place where so many journeys begin and end. A place where chapters of peoples lives are opened, closed, expanded. A place for reunions and new beginnings. I enjoyed my time in JFK, talking to the restaurant staff and my new bartender friend. He asked for my info, so I gave him this blog site and my e-mail address. Who knows, maybe I'll hear from my new friend :-) If you're reading this, it was wonderful meeting you and I do hope to hear from you. Eventually I made it home and I was exhausted. I did a little packing and lots of TV watching.
What I learned on Tuesday: Airports are magical, mimosas are deadly and you never know who you might meet. Also, I really missed being here in Ohio.
And that was my trip. If you've made it to the end of this, congratulations!! I owe you a cookie. I need to go to bed. Until next time, Peace Out!
HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY PEACE CORPS!!!
The Peace corps is officially 50 years old today and I couldn't be prouder to be shipping off in 23 days.
Today I am going to a nice dinner at THE Ohio State University (one of my Alma Maters) celebrating the birth of The Peace Corps. My friend Maria who is in the application stages is also going and then we're hoping to go out for Mexican afterwards. Hopefully I can find something appropriate to wear in my closet and have time to run to whole foods afterwards. Since I'm going to NY tomorrow I'll need to bring my own food if I want to stay on my diet. There's no shot anyone is going to make anything remotely healthy, so I'm going to stock up on almonds, pecans and larabars. All super easy and super portable.
Tonight I'll have to pack for my "adventure" home too. I am going to see it as a test of how long I can hold my tongue and ignore negative comments. I'm really looking forward to seeing my friends though, however most of the trip will be spent in some family members living room attached to my kindle for dear life.
Anyway, I have to start getting ready for my special dinner.
Once again, HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEACE CORPS!!!
Today I am going to a nice dinner at THE Ohio State University (one of my Alma Maters) celebrating the birth of The Peace Corps. My friend Maria who is in the application stages is also going and then we're hoping to go out for Mexican afterwards. Hopefully I can find something appropriate to wear in my closet and have time to run to whole foods afterwards. Since I'm going to NY tomorrow I'll need to bring my own food if I want to stay on my diet. There's no shot anyone is going to make anything remotely healthy, so I'm going to stock up on almonds, pecans and larabars. All super easy and super portable.
Tonight I'll have to pack for my "adventure" home too. I am going to see it as a test of how long I can hold my tongue and ignore negative comments. I'm really looking forward to seeing my friends though, however most of the trip will be spent in some family members living room attached to my kindle for dear life.
Anyway, I have to start getting ready for my special dinner.
Once again, HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEACE CORPS!!!
To Visit or Not to Visit
Well, that was WAS the question. After learning that two of my friends back home in NY, Meghan and Barry are trying to create a good-bye gathering for me, how could I NOT go home? It's really sweet to know that, as I've mentioned in previous posts, I have AMAZING friends who love me and I'm so lucky to have them in my life.
So yes, on Wednesday I will get on my little plane and fly back to NYC. Though I am now staying with me parents instead.
I'm happy that my sister Kathy and her husband Matt are driving 4 HOURS from Pennsylvania on Saturday, to NY just to see me. She and her husband have been major rocks of support and although they both worry, which is understandable, they have been very supportive of my going to the Peace Corps. However when I ultimately have to say Goodbye to them, I'm probably going to cry like a baby. I'm very aware of this and have already accepted this fate.
I got some encouraging words from a cousin of mine, who is currently living and working with his wife and 2 children in Cambodia. I asked him about how he handled negative reactions to him going to cambodia and his advice was very helpful. My new response is now "Thank you for your concern" and changing the topic.
Things are slowly turning around, but I don't want to be too confident of that fact yet, as I have not gone to NY just yet.
I got my first, not one, but TWO e-mails from my Peace Corps pen pal today. Her advice is super helpful and it's nice to have that line of communication with someone who already went through the packing stages of things and she has already answered a bunch of my millions of questions that I have and am bound to continue to have.
That's really it for now. Time to get ready for a fun filled night of laundry, packing, netflix movies and resting. This is a big week for me, so we'll see how things go.
So yes, on Wednesday I will get on my little plane and fly back to NYC. Though I am now staying with me parents instead.
I'm happy that my sister Kathy and her husband Matt are driving 4 HOURS from Pennsylvania on Saturday, to NY just to see me. She and her husband have been major rocks of support and although they both worry, which is understandable, they have been very supportive of my going to the Peace Corps. However when I ultimately have to say Goodbye to them, I'm probably going to cry like a baby. I'm very aware of this and have already accepted this fate.
I got some encouraging words from a cousin of mine, who is currently living and working with his wife and 2 children in Cambodia. I asked him about how he handled negative reactions to him going to cambodia and his advice was very helpful. My new response is now "Thank you for your concern" and changing the topic.
Things are slowly turning around, but I don't want to be too confident of that fact yet, as I have not gone to NY just yet.
I got my first, not one, but TWO e-mails from my Peace Corps pen pal today. Her advice is super helpful and it's nice to have that line of communication with someone who already went through the packing stages of things and she has already answered a bunch of my millions of questions that I have and am bound to continue to have.
That's really it for now. Time to get ready for a fun filled night of laundry, packing, netflix movies and resting. This is a big week for me, so we'll see how things go.
Last Day at Work
Today is my last day at work. Although I haven't always loved my job, I have always loved my co-workers, especially the ones on my team and a few others that I have forged some pretty special relationships with (Jesse, Archeshita, Perry, Laura, Cassadi, Barb, Elena, John, Harold and Sajid). I thought I would really enjoy this day, but I don't think I am going to as much as I may have thought a few months ago.
So tonight, despite the nasty gross icky weather outside, several of us are getting Bob Evans for dinner. I chose that for two reasons a) Because Breakfast food is my favorite food and b) It's vegetarian friendly and some of my friends at work are vegetarian. So that part of the night, I am definitely looking forward to.
I am going to try to sell more furniture on craigslist this weekend. SELL SELL SELL!!! That is my biggest goal.
I have not decided if I am going to cancel my trip to NY yet or not (see last blog). I love my friends, and that part of the trip will be fun, but most of it will be spent with family, where I'll be blatantly ignored, chastised and belittled. I'm not sure it's the healthiest thing for me to do right now considering the AMAZING experience I am about to embark on. More updates on that to come.
That's all for now. I'll try to update some more over the weekend. i hope everyone has a happy and safe weekend.
So tonight, despite the nasty gross icky weather outside, several of us are getting Bob Evans for dinner. I chose that for two reasons a) Because Breakfast food is my favorite food and b) It's vegetarian friendly and some of my friends at work are vegetarian. So that part of the night, I am definitely looking forward to.
I am going to try to sell more furniture on craigslist this weekend. SELL SELL SELL!!! That is my biggest goal.
I have not decided if I am going to cancel my trip to NY yet or not (see last blog). I love my friends, and that part of the trip will be fun, but most of it will be spent with family, where I'll be blatantly ignored, chastised and belittled. I'm not sure it's the healthiest thing for me to do right now considering the AMAZING experience I am about to embark on. More updates on that to come.
That's all for now. I'll try to update some more over the weekend. i hope everyone has a happy and safe weekend.
Is everyones family so destructive? Thank God for my friends.
I am going to preface this with one major thing: I AM STILL GOING TO THE PEACE CORPS.
So my brother told me to call him after work last night, so I did exactly that. I thought he wanted to talk to me about me staying with him next week. Instead, he wanted to yell at me for 1 1/2 hours and piss all over my Peace Corps dreams. He told me he's not going to come pick up my body when I die or get in trouble. He used our dead parents against me saying they wouldn't want me to go. He told me I need to get "a real job" and wants me to move back to NY, live with him, leverage my education, find a man, get married and have babies. He also said if I wanted to make a difference I could go to East Harlem and teach kids how to read, but to stay in the United States. He said I can't change anything in Belize. There are a lot more destructive things that were said, but I really can't handle going on with this negativity.
That is the opposite of everything I want for my life. I despise NY, I want to and am going to go the the Peace Corps because it is a real job, and it is MY job. I have been talking about this since I was in high school. This is the path I have chosen in my life, and it's really hard that so many people in my life cannot accept that this is a good thing. I'll get married one day, settle down and grow some roots somewhere, but now is not that time. I'm not ready to curl up and die yet.
Thank God I have so many amazing friends there to support me. Especially Meghan (my Meggles), who gave me the amazing advice that I need to stop letting toxic people "rent space" in my head and that sometimes "We have to make our own family". She's always been supportive and I know she always will be. Michael Allen, who told me to be safe and he knows I'll do well and Mike Carro, who is just a really supportive force for me. I have plenty of other supportive friends as well, and a few distant relatives (who I wish weren't so distant) are super supportive and loving.
I really wish I could shorten my trip to NY next week, but I know I have to find alternative sleeping arrangements, because after that "talk", I don't feel comfortable sleeping at his house. I'm sure I'll find somewhere to go. All of my friends are offering up spare bedrooms or couches.
Anyway, thanks for listening to my rant. I've got to get ready for work now. My face looks like I got beaten up, so that should mean a fun day at work.
I hope everyone has a great day.
So my brother told me to call him after work last night, so I did exactly that. I thought he wanted to talk to me about me staying with him next week. Instead, he wanted to yell at me for 1 1/2 hours and piss all over my Peace Corps dreams. He told me he's not going to come pick up my body when I die or get in trouble. He used our dead parents against me saying they wouldn't want me to go. He told me I need to get "a real job" and wants me to move back to NY, live with him, leverage my education, find a man, get married and have babies. He also said if I wanted to make a difference I could go to East Harlem and teach kids how to read, but to stay in the United States. He said I can't change anything in Belize. There are a lot more destructive things that were said, but I really can't handle going on with this negativity.
That is the opposite of everything I want for my life. I despise NY, I want to and am going to go the the Peace Corps because it is a real job, and it is MY job. I have been talking about this since I was in high school. This is the path I have chosen in my life, and it's really hard that so many people in my life cannot accept that this is a good thing. I'll get married one day, settle down and grow some roots somewhere, but now is not that time. I'm not ready to curl up and die yet.
Thank God I have so many amazing friends there to support me. Especially Meghan (my Meggles), who gave me the amazing advice that I need to stop letting toxic people "rent space" in my head and that sometimes "We have to make our own family". She's always been supportive and I know she always will be. Michael Allen, who told me to be safe and he knows I'll do well and Mike Carro, who is just a really supportive force for me. I have plenty of other supportive friends as well, and a few distant relatives (who I wish weren't so distant) are super supportive and loving.
I really wish I could shorten my trip to NY next week, but I know I have to find alternative sleeping arrangements, because after that "talk", I don't feel comfortable sleeping at his house. I'm sure I'll find somewhere to go. All of my friends are offering up spare bedrooms or couches.
Anyway, thanks for listening to my rant. I've got to get ready for work now. My face looks like I got beaten up, so that should mean a fun day at work.
I hope everyone has a great day.
Weekend and whatnot
So I didn't have as productive as a weekend as I had hoped, but I did have a productive weekend. I got my taxes done, I started attacking the dreaded closet. I made a pile for goodwill and a pile of things to sell. I DID sell my kitchen table and chairs. I haven't found a home for the rest of my furniture though (sadly) despite repeatedly posting it on craigslist every 2 days and continuously dropping the price. I may have a potential home for my amazingly wonderful cat though.
I did order a hammock from Hennessy Hammocks though. I got the ultra-light backpacker velcro version. It's what they recommended for me, plus I like that it's a bit lighter. Our discount made it worth the money, as I know I'll be abusing my new hammock.
http://www.hennessyhammock.com/catalogue.html
Honestly, I will probably end up sleeping in it more nights than not. The only other large purchases I have to make are some shoes, a good swiss army knife and a good rain coat. I've got my eye on some of the north face ones, but they're all out of stock right now.
I'm sure things will figure themselves out money wise for me, but I'm still a tiny bit worried. All my bills (minor ones) will be paid by the time I leave, I'm just really hoping to take care of them sooner rather than later. It's stressful not having them paid right now.
Anyway, I have to get ready to go run errands. I'm bringing some stuff to the used guitar shop by my house to sell. Things I bought from them. I refuse to sell my guitar though. But I really don't need to store an amp, guitar rack and music stand for 27 months. So maybe I'll get a few dollars from that. I'm hoping for the best...
Off to face the world in this awful ice and snow... Until next time.
Oh and...30 DAYS LEFT IN THE US!!!!!
I did order a hammock from Hennessy Hammocks though. I got the ultra-light backpacker velcro version. It's what they recommended for me, plus I like that it's a bit lighter. Our discount made it worth the money, as I know I'll be abusing my new hammock.
http://www.hennessyhammock.com/catalogue.html
Honestly, I will probably end up sleeping in it more nights than not. The only other large purchases I have to make are some shoes, a good swiss army knife and a good rain coat. I've got my eye on some of the north face ones, but they're all out of stock right now.
I'm sure things will figure themselves out money wise for me, but I'm still a tiny bit worried. All my bills (minor ones) will be paid by the time I leave, I'm just really hoping to take care of them sooner rather than later. It's stressful not having them paid right now.
Anyway, I have to get ready to go run errands. I'm bringing some stuff to the used guitar shop by my house to sell. Things I bought from them. I refuse to sell my guitar though. But I really don't need to store an amp, guitar rack and music stand for 27 months. So maybe I'll get a few dollars from that. I'm hoping for the best...
Off to face the world in this awful ice and snow... Until next time.
Oh and...30 DAYS LEFT IN THE US!!!!!
About Me
- S. Wanderlust
- I'm Stephanie, a 26 year old Social Worker who got bitten by the travel bug at a young age. My innate need to see the world and philanthropic ways have led me to become a Peace Corps volunteer leaving for Belize in March 2011 as a Youth HIV/AIDS Facilitator.
S. Wanderlust
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