Thursday, August 4, 2011

Top 10 Changes I've made since living in Africa

I read many books before coming to Africa in order to prepare for the many changes I would have to make.  Because there are too many to mention, I decided to make a top ten list...

10. I eat rice for lunch and dinner, every day.
9.  I ride a bike when I need to get somewhere.
8.  I wash my clothes by hand.
7.  I haven't washed my spoon once.  I lick it clean every day.
6.  I conserve water like nobody's business.
5.  I go outside to get cool.
4.  I travel 3 km to use electricity.
3.  I use a light attached to my head to see at night.
2.  I let spiders live in my house.
Alfred
and number 1...  I accidentally pee on my foot at least once a day.

So, I may be exaggerating a bit on number one with the once a day business, but it does happen, and I don't enjoy it.  Any suggestions on how to pee straight are welcome.  :)

4 comments:

  1. The Peace Corps sure got a gem when you joined! I just finished reading all your blogs and am in total awe or what you have done and are doing! What a great writer you are too! This world is such a marvelous place. I am daily sending huge hugs and prayers your way. Also, I just noticed the "Little things that would give me a BIG smile" list. I was wondering what would be most helpful to you!

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  2. Thanks, Diana! I truly appreciate the prayers and hugs! They don't give hugs here, I think I've had maybe 5 total since being here... definitely MISS those! As far as the little things go, really anything would make me ecstatic. Getting mail is the best! When it comes to teaching, sharpees would probably be the most useful, but food tends to make me the happiest! :) Rice every day gets a little old, and the cookies and treats they have here just aren't like the ones from back home. Insect repellent is also something I coat on every day, and would be very useful. But really, a simple letter would bring me great joy!!! Would love to hear from you and how retirement is going! How is the library coming at Central? The volunteer before me at my permanent site started a library at the school. I can't wait to get up there and start working!!! :) Thank you for keeping in touch! It means a lot!

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  3. When you're squatting hang on to a tree trunk or something and lean way back with your feet close to the thing you're hanging on to. Just make sure it's not a dead tree - that happened to me and it fell down and so did I! (PS I work with your mom - let's see if she sees this).

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  4. Thanks for the tip, Debbie! I will remember that if I ever have to go out in the bush, but unfortunately, that won't help me for my latrine usage. I don't have anything to hold on to! I've reverted to the widest leg stance possible, good thing about it is that you get a leg workout in as you use the facilities. :) Next time you see my mom, give her a hug, from me!

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