Sorry its been quite some time since I last posted. Ive been feeling somewhat lazy lately, and didnt have much motivation to blog. I apologize...and here’s a recap of what I’ve been up to the past few weeks...
Baobab pool: A few weeks ago I was invited by another volunteer to help out at a swimming pool day for several OVCs. The Baobab National Primary school students invited several OVCs from several locations (Molepolole and Manyana) to come swim for the day at their school’s pool. I found out the principal and founder of the school was once a Peace Corps Volunteer in Botswana. There were about 8 other PCVs there and about 75+ kids. In a sense we were there as lifeguards. A lot of these children had never been in a pool before and most were slightly afraid to go swimming in the big pool. We all watched the kids for several hours and helped served lunch provided by Baobab. It was just a really nice day (especially since it was SO HOT and we got to go swimming too!!)
PSDN application: As I have mentioned before in several blogs, we have a Peer Support Diversity Network (PSDN) which is a group of volunteers chosen mainly by through the previous PSDN members and the Country Director to serve as peer mentors to the other volunteers in Botswana. During my first few months at site, I definitely depended on them for support and was so glad that we had this group in Botswana. Well...the time has come to select new PSDN members (from Bots9) to help our fellow Bots9ers as well as the new volunteers (Bots10) coming in April. So I have decided to apply...along with a lot of others in my group and I believe we will find out who has been selected on December 15th! Yay!
Abstinence clubs: So one of the projects that grabbed my interest, is working with the Abstinence Clubs at the two Junior Secondary Schools in my village. While I was doing my community assessment the first few months, I spoke to several teachers at the schools and discovered these clubs to be pretty non-existent. I initially reached out to an NGO and asked if they were doing any programs in the schools-and they said yes they had an in-school coordinator but when I asked for definite dates and times, they couldnt provide me with any. (So I took that as they werent doing much.) However I went back several weeks later and was invited to come with the in-school youth coordinator to the abstinence clubs (so it seems my little visit got her motivated and moving).
Unfortunately the school year is ending this week and wont be back in session till January. So I’m kind of bummed most of the stuff im interested in, will be put on a hold for a few months. But I went to 2 meetings at Matlala JSS. The first meeting we spoke about challenges youth face today. Needless to say, I was pretty surprised and disturbed by some of the things they were mentioning. Our 2nd (and last for this year) meeting, Mary and I screened a STEPS film. There are usually about 15 kids in the club; and I think a lot of the students saw that we were going to be showing some sort of movie or something, because there were about 50+ kids ready to watch. I mean...at least we had a big group for the discussion afterwards!!
We had planned to go to the Abstinence club meetings at Tlokweng JSS but the in-school youth coordinator canceled on me both times. So hopefully we’ll start up with them with a fresh new school year.
Visit to Mogobane/Otse: Last week I coordinated with two other PCVs to come day for a visit. I went down so that I could attend the Mogobane PLWDs Support group meeting; and so that I could see Camp Hill (school for people with disabilities). The Mogobane support group usually meet once a week; and the two other PCVs have helped them acquire a plot of land to start growing a garden for income generation. During this meeting, we discussed trying to find a water source and went into more detail about the possibility of finding the current (but hidden) bore hole close to the piece of land. I thought it was definitely interesting to see how the support group was working and how the PCVs were helping. My support group in Tlokweng is a bit non-existent at the moment, since the chair recently got a job. Its unfortunate since I know these people really are passionate and want to help; but at the same time it is a volunteer group and work for people’s livelihood’s come first. But I hope to help my support group here-Le Rona Re Teng.
I was also given the opportunity to get a tour around Camp Hill. Camp Hill is actually a world wide organization, and one of the sites is in Otse, Botswana. There are three parts to the site: a primary school, a life skills school, and an adult living/work area. The property was absolutely incredible and beautiful. They have some great facilities, carpenters workshop, garden, orchard, tea garden restaurant, and adult assisted living houses. It was amazing to see such a great organization and property set aside for people with disabilities. But at the same time, hard for me to see, since it is separate.
Im really interested in taking on some sort of secondary project with them; but Im just not sure what. It seems like the organization has things together and may not need much of my assistance. However, one thing I would be interested in; is helping to include the students/adults at Camp Hill into surrounding villages/towns (which is what the current PCV has definitely worked towards). For example, it seems as though the adult jobs and living situations are all on site. Although this is great; I would really love to see some sort of group home in nearby Lobatse or Gaborone. I dont really know yet...Im still trying to figure things out.
Wedding Party: I found out one of the volunteers I volunteer with at SOS recently got married! She is actually an American, who is here with her fiance (who is with the UPENN medical program) and due to some complicated paperwork/visa stuff; they got married here in Botswana. So I attended a small wedding party last Friday. It was also nice to meet some other non-PCV Americans in the area.
Commemoration Day for People Living with Disabilities: I found out last week that I would be helping out with this commemoration day (which is this Wednesday the 24th). Im mostly filling in for my DAC and supposed to be in charge of the “protocol” sub committee. This pretty much means I help send out invitation letters, help find the keynote speaker, and make the program. Aka Im pretty much only doing the program. Im interested to know exactly what this commemoration day is “commemorating.” Unfortunately, I see it more of a day of speeches all in Setswana and lunch at the end. But I am excited to use this opportunity as face time with several individuals, so that they can know who I am; and so that I can get to know them as well.
World AIDS Day: So we’re also getting ready for our big World AIDS Day Commemoration. The event will take place on December 1st. And again, it will be a day full of speeches in setswana and lunch at the end. More to come later...
Harassment/Men: So during my last post I mentioned the young girl who walked through the bus rank wearing a mini skirt; and was followed by about 100+ men hooting and hollering. There’s been a bit of an issue, Ive been meaning to address...and it deals in a sense-sexual harassment. And when I say that I mean...that on a regular basis I get called out to; proposed to; and told “I love you” when Ive just met the guy. I pretty much just ignore it and keep walking. But sometimes I’ll be walking down the street, and the guy is walking in the same direction you are; so there’s really no way of escaping him. Im thankful to Dara for getting me a ring for my going away present-because on more than one occasion, ive used it as an engagement/wedding ring. And although I ignore it; after repeatedly dealing with this; it starts to frustrate and annoy me.
Now, this isnt to say that ALL men in Botswana are like this; but I definitely deal with it regularly. Last week I received a call from a young man-who I didnt really know who it was (I have a feeling its this one person ive said hi to on occasion); he proceeded to tell me he loved me; and I asked him how he got my number. (Since I got here, Ive been very careful as to who I give my phone number to. I usually have to make up some story about how its a Peace Corps phone and Im not allowed to give the number.) When asked how he got my number; he said it didnt matter and than we should discuss what hes just told me( how he loves me). I said um...no. Im sorry I dont even know who this is, I want to know how you got my phone number, please dont call me again. I think he got the message-he hasnt called since.
I get easily frustrated with situations like this, because I truly want to make friends here in Botswana. But how can I even strike up a conversation with a man; when I know he’s immediately going to tell me he loves me? Again, not to say all men are like this...but it definitely puts a damper on how I foresee men here. Heres hoping to finding ONE guy who doesnt fit this already tampered view on Motswana men.
Lastly...GUESS Whos Moving in next door?? Yup thats right folks...my counterpart! A brand new challenge is knocking on my door...literally.
Oh and a random story:
Random Young man: "tell me, do you have these kinds of batteries in stock at your store? (While pointing to his phone battery)
Me: "Oh if only I had a store. Because you see, Im American; NOT Chinese. Therefore, I do not own a china shop." (All said with a smile on my face)
And on the same day--
My Counterpart: "Whats wrong with your face?" (First words spoken to me)
Me: "Umm..I wasnt aware there was something wrong."
My Counterpart: "Oh yes...you need to wear a hat."
Up Next: This weekend I’ll be heading to Otse to spend Thanksgiving with 30 other PCVs (even though Im sad I wont actually get to celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday...but have no doubt-brocoli casserole will be made :)); Dec 11-19th Ill be heading to New Xade to help another PCV with a life skills workshop; Christmas eve will be spent with a TON of volunteers eating indian food; Christmas day will be spent poolside at a nearby hotel pool; and Dec 29th-Jan 5th Im heading to MOZAMBIQUE!!! SUPER Excited!!!!
Happy Early Thanksgiving to everyone at home!! Unfortunately I wont be celebrating till Saturday; but I'll be dreaming of mashed potatoes, brocoli casserole, apple pie, and turkey on Thursday!!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
When theres something strange in your neighborhood....WHO you gonna call??
The week I got back from Cape Town was definitely a busy one!!! On Monday, I had my first STEPS screening to the Form 2 classes (14-16 year olds) at the Tlokweng Junior Secondary School. Mary, a fellow PCV, and I decided to do the STEPS screenings together, so she came to my village on Monday and Tuesday. We screened a film called “Thinking About It" which was a film created by youth; for youth. It touched upon topics including condom use, abstinence, transactional sex, peer pressure, etc to 1 class on Monday and 1 class on Tuesday. The film was about 15 minutes and than we had about a 15 minute conversation and ended with the students filling out a feedback form. The students told us they liked being able to openly talk about sex and we had some good discussions. They brought up points regarding condoms (if they encourage/discourage people to have sex, proper usage), and peer pressure (especially from a person’s partner-a student asked what if they threaten you with a gun--Mary and I were pretty caught off guard but tried to explain to the students that they should really be openly talking to their partner about sex and to make sure they both agree about if and when they will have sex and are on the same page together from the BEGINNING). Overall both screenings went really well and Mary and I are looking forward to doing more!
Unfortunately two of our scheduled days for screenings got messed up. Friday of that week I was set to go to Kumakwane (Marys village) to screen a Form 3 class. I showed up and Mary found out the students had to clean and get ready for their exams-so that block of time was not going to be open. And I found out that my office’s big Evidence Based Planning retreat was going to be from Oct. 31-Nov.5th; and I had scheduled to screen 3 classes on Nov 2nd-so that didn’t happen.
However, since I did still go to Marys village on Friday, I ended up staying there until Saturday. We helped 2 of Marys students make a study schedule chart and ended up talking to them for a bit. It was really refreshing for me to talk to students and for once I felt like I was really doing something (even though I was really just there for moral support ha). On Saturday, we went to an OVC (Orphans and Vulnerable Children) Center that another PCV works at. Barclays (a local bank) provided a meal and came to plant some trees, help out in the garden, and paint the playground. We helped prepare the meal in the morning and hung out for a bit until lunch was served.
Last week was pretty uneventful. I pretty much just split my time between the office and various organizations. However, the past couple of days (starting Friday) have been eventful-and not in a good way.
On Friday I spent my morning at the Kindergarten and while holding one of the little babies. I was lucky enough to get some poop leakage on my shorts from her diaper. Yay...lucky me. I went back to my office for a few hours, and while I was at Choppies (grocery store) getting lunch, I noticed I was missing a big chunk of money. I went back to my office and explained what had happened and that I needed to go home to see if it was there. Unfortunately it wasn’t. I traced back my steps-On Thursday I took out Money from the ATM, did some grocery shopping, took the combi home, and was at the home that entire night. Friday morning I was at SOS and than went to my office-which is when I noticed my money was missing.
Clearly the only time something could have happened was when I was at the kindergarten. I usually put my bag up on a shelf in my classroom-high enough so the kids cant reach it. When I first starting volunteering there, I was much more cautious; but now that Ive been there for some time, I think I’ve managed to put my guard down a bit. So I think someone might have taken it while I was at the kindergarten.
I ended up calling Peace Corps and the Safety and Security Officer told me I should report it to the police; so he met me at the Tlokweng Police Station. I had explained to him that I was weary of reporting it because SOS was a place I was volunteering and I didn’t want to go in there pointing fingers and accusing people. He explained that to the police; and pretty much I could either not report it or report it and let the police do their job. Unfortunately if I wanted any reimbursement back from Peace Corps, I had to report it. So I did; and I filled out several forms, gave them my statement, and now I wait to hear from them. I don’t think they’re going to find anyone-but at least I’ll get reimbursed and now I’ll definitely be more cautious.
On Saturday, another PCV was hosting a big Halloween party in Kanye. So I met up with some other volunteers first and headed down to Kanye. While I was waiting on the bus; all of a sudden we heard shouting, hooting and hollering. I asked the girl next to me what was going on. She thought it was a fight and we saw a big crowd of people. But she told me it wasn’t a fight-there were 2 girls wearing mini-skirts and there were like a HUNDRED men following her through the bus rank harassing her!! I couldn’t believe it!!
Four of us decided to be the GHOSTBUSTERS for Halloween and we made an entrance into the party with a dance to the theme song!! We were in full white jump suits, with 2 ghostbuster logo patches and name tags,. back packs with a hose coming out of them, and head lamps. I though it was pretty funny because the uniform store we bought the jump suits from either had REALLY big ones or really small ones. And all the other girls had the really big ones, and I had a fitted one that barely allowed me to bend down. There was a costume contest and WE WON!!! Second place went to a PCV male that was a baby in a diaper; and 3rd place went to a male PCV who was an Africaaner. There were over 40+ PCVs there and it was definitely fun...until I got sick!!
We’re not really sure what happened, but my guess would be it was some sort of food poisoning/dehydration or just got some sick bug (not the literal bug-apparently another volunteer experienced something similar on Friday). But starting around 11am, I was throwing up about once every hour until 3:30am’ and than some more later (sorry, trying to spare you all the details). I could tell I was loosing a lot of water especially since I was SOOO thirsty!!! I called the PC medical officer in the morning and she told me to mix the re-hydration packets with water and drink only that. I was feeling better but still not myself. However I was worried because I was supposed to be heading to Lobatse, so that my counterpart could pick me up to take me to Metlojane for our big retreat. I had decided to still go because I figured I could rest in my room Sunday and Monday and still be able to attend the rest of the retreat.
I eventually did make it to Lobatse; and Metlojane; however I got really upset while I was there. I was told I could eat a little something (as it was around 4pm by this time) and I did; but I think the car ride down to Metlojane caused me to throw up again. We got to the lodge and all I wanted to do was rest. My counterpart was running late (and she had my bag because I left it with her so that I didn’t have to carry it to Kanye) and first they were trying to make me share a room. I told them I had been sick and was not going to share a room. So I finally got my own room-but it was full of mosquitoes (and no net or bug repellant), no toilet paper, a towel the size of my head, the entire hotel was run by a generator and all power was going out at 10pm and it was HOT as heck. I sat there crying; wishing I could just be in my bed at home. The room probably wasn’t that bad...but it wasn’t going to help me relax or feel better. Once my counterpart got there; I made the decision that I was going to go home. At that moment, I needed to be taking care of myself and not pushing myself just to be there at this retreat. So my driver took me halfway to Lobatse; and than the PC security officer picked me up and drove me back to Gaborone. I ended up staying at the lodge right near the PC office because the PC medical officer wanted to see me in the morning. So now I’ll be resting and if I feel well enough; I’ll probably head back down to the retreat on Wednesday or Thursday.
Up Next: On a much happier note...plans for the holidays are starting to form!! Not quite sure what I'll be doing for Thanksgiving yet-but no doubt I'll be around friends. I"ll be heading to help out a fellow PCV with a Life Skills Workshop for OCVs in New Xade Dec. 13-18th!! Christmas Eve/Day will be spent eating Indian food (very traditional right?) and in good company. And HOPEFULLY for New Years I'll be heading to Mozambique for a little more than a week!!!
Unfortunately two of our scheduled days for screenings got messed up. Friday of that week I was set to go to Kumakwane (Marys village) to screen a Form 3 class. I showed up and Mary found out the students had to clean and get ready for their exams-so that block of time was not going to be open. And I found out that my office’s big Evidence Based Planning retreat was going to be from Oct. 31-Nov.5th; and I had scheduled to screen 3 classes on Nov 2nd-so that didn’t happen.
However, since I did still go to Marys village on Friday, I ended up staying there until Saturday. We helped 2 of Marys students make a study schedule chart and ended up talking to them for a bit. It was really refreshing for me to talk to students and for once I felt like I was really doing something (even though I was really just there for moral support ha). On Saturday, we went to an OVC (Orphans and Vulnerable Children) Center that another PCV works at. Barclays (a local bank) provided a meal and came to plant some trees, help out in the garden, and paint the playground. We helped prepare the meal in the morning and hung out for a bit until lunch was served.
Last week was pretty uneventful. I pretty much just split my time between the office and various organizations. However, the past couple of days (starting Friday) have been eventful-and not in a good way.
On Friday I spent my morning at the Kindergarten and while holding one of the little babies. I was lucky enough to get some poop leakage on my shorts from her diaper. Yay...lucky me. I went back to my office for a few hours, and while I was at Choppies (grocery store) getting lunch, I noticed I was missing a big chunk of money. I went back to my office and explained what had happened and that I needed to go home to see if it was there. Unfortunately it wasn’t. I traced back my steps-On Thursday I took out Money from the ATM, did some grocery shopping, took the combi home, and was at the home that entire night. Friday morning I was at SOS and than went to my office-which is when I noticed my money was missing.
Clearly the only time something could have happened was when I was at the kindergarten. I usually put my bag up on a shelf in my classroom-high enough so the kids cant reach it. When I first starting volunteering there, I was much more cautious; but now that Ive been there for some time, I think I’ve managed to put my guard down a bit. So I think someone might have taken it while I was at the kindergarten.
I ended up calling Peace Corps and the Safety and Security Officer told me I should report it to the police; so he met me at the Tlokweng Police Station. I had explained to him that I was weary of reporting it because SOS was a place I was volunteering and I didn’t want to go in there pointing fingers and accusing people. He explained that to the police; and pretty much I could either not report it or report it and let the police do their job. Unfortunately if I wanted any reimbursement back from Peace Corps, I had to report it. So I did; and I filled out several forms, gave them my statement, and now I wait to hear from them. I don’t think they’re going to find anyone-but at least I’ll get reimbursed and now I’ll definitely be more cautious.
On Saturday, another PCV was hosting a big Halloween party in Kanye. So I met up with some other volunteers first and headed down to Kanye. While I was waiting on the bus; all of a sudden we heard shouting, hooting and hollering. I asked the girl next to me what was going on. She thought it was a fight and we saw a big crowd of people. But she told me it wasn’t a fight-there were 2 girls wearing mini-skirts and there were like a HUNDRED men following her through the bus rank harassing her!! I couldn’t believe it!!
Four of us decided to be the GHOSTBUSTERS for Halloween and we made an entrance into the party with a dance to the theme song!! We were in full white jump suits, with 2 ghostbuster logo patches and name tags,. back packs with a hose coming out of them, and head lamps. I though it was pretty funny because the uniform store we bought the jump suits from either had REALLY big ones or really small ones. And all the other girls had the really big ones, and I had a fitted one that barely allowed me to bend down. There was a costume contest and WE WON!!! Second place went to a PCV male that was a baby in a diaper; and 3rd place went to a male PCV who was an Africaaner. There were over 40+ PCVs there and it was definitely fun...until I got sick!!
We’re not really sure what happened, but my guess would be it was some sort of food poisoning/dehydration or just got some sick bug (not the literal bug-apparently another volunteer experienced something similar on Friday). But starting around 11am, I was throwing up about once every hour until 3:30am’ and than some more later (sorry, trying to spare you all the details). I could tell I was loosing a lot of water especially since I was SOOO thirsty!!! I called the PC medical officer in the morning and she told me to mix the re-hydration packets with water and drink only that. I was feeling better but still not myself. However I was worried because I was supposed to be heading to Lobatse, so that my counterpart could pick me up to take me to Metlojane for our big retreat. I had decided to still go because I figured I could rest in my room Sunday and Monday and still be able to attend the rest of the retreat.
I eventually did make it to Lobatse; and Metlojane; however I got really upset while I was there. I was told I could eat a little something (as it was around 4pm by this time) and I did; but I think the car ride down to Metlojane caused me to throw up again. We got to the lodge and all I wanted to do was rest. My counterpart was running late (and she had my bag because I left it with her so that I didn’t have to carry it to Kanye) and first they were trying to make me share a room. I told them I had been sick and was not going to share a room. So I finally got my own room-but it was full of mosquitoes (and no net or bug repellant), no toilet paper, a towel the size of my head, the entire hotel was run by a generator and all power was going out at 10pm and it was HOT as heck. I sat there crying; wishing I could just be in my bed at home. The room probably wasn’t that bad...but it wasn’t going to help me relax or feel better. Once my counterpart got there; I made the decision that I was going to go home. At that moment, I needed to be taking care of myself and not pushing myself just to be there at this retreat. So my driver took me halfway to Lobatse; and than the PC security officer picked me up and drove me back to Gaborone. I ended up staying at the lodge right near the PC office because the PC medical officer wanted to see me in the morning. So now I’ll be resting and if I feel well enough; I’ll probably head back down to the retreat on Wednesday or Thursday.
Up Next: On a much happier note...plans for the holidays are starting to form!! Not quite sure what I'll be doing for Thanksgiving yet-but no doubt I'll be around friends. I"ll be heading to help out a fellow PCV with a Life Skills Workshop for OCVs in New Xade Dec. 13-18th!! Christmas Eve/Day will be spent eating Indian food (very traditional right?) and in good company. And HOPEFULLY for New Years I'll be heading to Mozambique for a little more than a week!!!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Flying Over Cape Town...Quite Literally
So I was hoping the week before I left for Cape Town would fly by, as I was starting to get really antsy!! Well it turns out Monday night I started feeling weak and dizzy. Tuesday morning I woke up feeling worse and went into the Peace Corps medical office. It seemed like I had some flu or cold bug...but nothing too bad. However, I spent most of Wednesday under 3 layers of blankets (and it was 90+ degrees outside) due to my fever spiking; and I started having some new not-so-fun symptoms. Needless to say I ended up not going into work the entire week and was SOOO glad I finally started to feel better on Friday.
Of course during this week I had SOO much to do including finalizing plans between me and Irina; as well as prepare myself for my STEPS screenings with Mary (fellow PCV) for when I returned. I was in touch with Irina, who was already in South Africa and it turned out that she was actually going to be in Velddrif (up the west coast) during the time that I was set to be in Cape Town. So I decided to book a hostel for 3 days so that I could see the sites of Cape Town and than make my way to Velddrif to see Irina and her family. However, finding public transportation of any sort was slightly impossible and it was coming to the point where I was probably going to have to rent a car (YIKES!). I also looked at the 10 day forecast and saw that it was pretty much going to rain the 3 days I was to be in Cape Town. My vacation was off to a good start...
Saturday: I woke up early to catch my 6am bus to Johannesburg. Took a cab to the airport and waited for about 5 hours for my flight to Cape Town. I was picked up at the Cape Town Airport by the hostel shuttle service. I have to add that on my way to the hostel; we passed an accident in which there was a body lying in the middle of the freeway. According to my driver, it was most likely some IDIOT trying to cross the freeway!! He said that he hears about it at least once a day. Yay. Welcome to Cape Town.
Arrived at the Backpackers and Africa Travel Centre and wasn't very pleased. It was a nice little hostel; but it was DEAD. I was also not given a room with lockers (when they said they would) and the lady at the front desk also charged my card when I asked her not to. So I spent one night there...and than walked over to 2 other hostels in the area on Sunday Morning.
Sunday: I walked over to CapeTown Backpackers and was greeted by a very nice young woman who could tell I was stressed and offered me a cup of coffee. I could tell this was a much better environment! So I dropped my stuff off and asked for suggestions on what to do since it was Sunday (and most seemed to be closed) and it was rainy. As suggested, I walked down to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.
The waterfront was filled with shops, restaurants, and craft vendors. I also hopped on the City Sightseeing double decker bus and rode around a bit to several of the different places. However, of course as soon as I got off, it started to POUR...so I ran back to my hostel to change and grab my rain coat. Than I walked down Long Street a bit, but found most of the stuff closed. However I did find the Green Market Square, which had a bunch of local African craft vendors. I know this is lame...but I had been wanting to see it-so I ended my night with dinner and saw Eat, Pray, Love. I went back to the hostel and found a bunch of people hanging out at the little bar.
I ended up meeting three young women, who had all met each other while being Au Pairs in New York several years ago. They were all travelling together and visiting some other Au Pairs who lived in South Africa. Two of the girls-Farina and Tina-were from Germany; and Jenny was from Sweden. (For those that may not know, my family used to have Au Pairs and I have also been to Sweden to visit ours; so naturally conversation sparked pretty quickly! I had mentioned wanting to see Robben Island, but it was sold out; and it turns out they had an extra ticket for Monday and graciously offered for me to join them!!
Monday: So I woke up early to grab breakfast with my Au Pair posse and headed down to see if our Robben Island tour was still on. Unfortunately winds were too high and the water was too choppy; so our tour got cancelled. We didnt really have a back up plan; so we ended up walking around the craft sheds at the waterfront and than headed to the Slave Lodge Museum. I found a lady who did pottery and mosaics and LOVED her stuff!! I bought a casserole dish with little elephants but the thing I really wanted to buy was a safari animal mosaic mirror! It was so cool but there was no way it was going to fit in my luggage!! Afterwards, we went our separate ways; and I made my way down to Camps Bay, since the sun was finally starting to come out.
Camps Bay was ABSOLUTELY beautiful!!! You had ocean on one side; and unbelievable views of Table Mountain, Lions head and the Twelve Apostles behind you. I had only wished it was a bit warmer. It was so nice to walk along the beach and see WATER!!! I tried to take a picture of my feet in the water...and than managed to get completely soaked up to my knees.
I ended up climbing up some rocks by the water and just sat there in complete solitude for about 3 hours and watched the sunset. It was SOOOO pleasant and probably one of my most memorable parts of my trip. I had no where to be; nothing to do; and no one to worry about.
The Camps bay area had a few shops and restaurants; and found them to be a bit ritzy and pricey...but heck, I was on vacation (and hungry). So I enjoyed nachos and a margarita on the balcony of a restaurant, overlooking the beach! I went back to the hostel and hung out at the bar, where I met some other travellers, as well as my Au Pair posse. I met some other people from Florida, LA, Germany, and Australia.
Tuesday: So Tuesday was probably the best day...not only because the weather was finally cooperating but because I also went...PARAGLIDING!!!!!
Before I left for Cape Town, I had actually seen an ad for paragliding and decided I definitely wanted to do it. However, due to the weather I was unable to do it on Monday; and than was really hoping it would happen on Tuesday. Well I called the company and they said to meet them up at Lions Head and that there might be a chance we could fly!! So I met my tandem para glider, Jacques up by Lions Head, and he told me the winds werent good from Lions head, so we were going to go check out Signal Hill. Jacques said he had been paragliding for over 15 years now and couldnt even count the amount of times he's gone (after joking around with me as this only his 2nd flight..righhht). He said flights usually last from about 15-30 minutes. (He told me I should definitely come back in the summer-as its happened 7 times-where theyve taken off from Lions head; the wind took them up to Table Mountain; and than back down to the ocean-overall being about 30-45 minutes---Um..YES PLEASE!!) So we were up at Signal Hill for probably about an hour and he decided the winds werent too strong; and they were in the right direction for us!! So we started to gear up (and for some strange reason...I wasnt nervous at all...despite the fact that I was about to run off a mountain and I've never liked this kind of stuff!)
He told me we would start walking forward and a bit; and that when he said run...RUN. There were some bushes that we were most likely going to go through and he said don't mind the bushes...just keep running! We had a ton of on-lookers as we were all geared up and literally just standing there waiting for the right wind (for about 15 minutes). I told my instructor that standing there was slightly torturous. Than all of a sudden he screamed...RUN!! So overall we had a pretty smooth take off and we were flying in the air for about 15 minutes!!! We took off of Signal Hill and flew right over the city. Table mountain was behind us; Lions head was the to left of us; V+A Waterfront was to the right; and the ocean was straight ahead of us. He took a bunch of pictures and so did I! Once we got over the ocean, he started to do a few tricks back and forth and than we landed on a patch of green grass right by the beach. It was definitely an incredible experience and I really loved it!
So after my paragliding adventure, I decided to hike up Lions Head. Since I'm so out of shape, the climb probably took me about an hour and 1/2 and I found it to be a really pleasant hike. The views from the top were beautiful. (Everyone had said make sure to go up Table Mountain-which didnt happen) but the views OF Table mountain from where I was-were incredible. So I sat up at the top for about an hour or so overlooking the ocean+robben island, the twelve apostles, and table mountain. On my way down, I actually bumped into a girl who asked me if the hike was safe(since she was doing it alone) and I told her I didnt have any problems, as I just did it solo and you pass other hikers along the way. (This part of my story is relevant I promise...just wait.)
So after hiking I decided to walk down Long Street along the shops and than made my way back down to the Waterfront for dinner. (This entire trip I was indulging in food x10...and it was great!) I had steak and veggies with a nice glass of wine. Just as I was finishing up dinner, the young girl who I had passed early on Lions Head, passed me and I asked how the rest of her hike was. She said it went well and than I found out she was from Tennessee but went to the University of Virginia! So I ended up grabbing a glass of wine with Lindsay and we chatted it up for a few hours. We both went back to our hostels for a bit; but decided we would meet up with each other to go out. So I met her at her hostel-on Long Street- where we we first met two guys from France; and than went to Mama Africa's (with some awesome music) and met 3 guys from Germany. I also met (Lindsay had met him at her hostel) a guy from Texas who was volunteering with Mercy Ships--I had heard about this from another PCV--and it's a NGO that uses old cruise liners and in a sense-turned them into travelling hospitals. They go from country to country (I think mostly around Africa) offering medical services of all sorts to those in need. The guy I met was actually doing PR-and would go to the various countries before the ships arrived to publicize the ships arrival to clinics, hospitals, etc. Overall, it was a pretty awesome last night in Cape Town.
Wednesday: So all throughout the week I was still trying to find a way to get to Velddrif. But after asking the travel desk at my hostel; the Cape Town tourism office, and the front desk of Port Owen Marina (where Irina was staying)....they all said I should rent a car. So I finally caved in...and decided to rent a car, seeing how it was going to be the only way I would see Irina.
So on Tuesday, the travel desk set up a reservation with a car company and I would be picked up and brought to the car rental office on Wednesday morning. Everything was pretty much set and ready to go, I just needed to pay. Ha. Easier said than done.
So I had not used my Botswana credit card at all-as I planned to use that solely for my car rental. Well it turns out I couldnt use it because it didn't have the raised name and number-and they had to make an impression of my card. So I had to use my other card...which was fine, because I knew I had enough money on there. However, it seems as though my bank had decided to CUT OFF my card...and I didnt know why. I had been using the card this entire time and had not had a problem with it. Well it turns out (after a lot of stress and finally calling Wachovia) that they cut it off for security purposes to make sure it was still me using the card. What I had thought would be an easy pick up...ended up being a 2 hour ordeal...but finally I got the car!! I was given a small, red Automatic Hyundai! I was pretty nervous about driving on the left side of the road and also not used to having the steering wheel on the right side!! But the directions to where Irina was seemed pretty easy...and they were!!!
It took me about 2 hours to get to Port Owen Marina and I was on the highway mostly, so I didnt have to worry about remembering to be on the left side of the road!! Irina and her family were staying at the Port Owen Marina time shares and on Wednesday we mostly just hung out and talked!! We did go walk along the beach and found a baby sea lion!! We had an awesome stir fry dinner and I was lame and went to bed at like 9:30 since I was so tired!!
Thursday: I must have been tired, seeing how I slept in until 10am!!! (I havent slept in past 8am since Ive been in Botswana!!) We had breakfast and than took a road trip up to Elands Bay and Lambert's Bay. They seemed to be small fishing towns, but not much going on besides that. We had lunch at a small restaurant in Lambert's Bay and also took some walks along the beaches throughout the day. We hung out, watched tv, and packed that night. I even got to do my laundry in a washer and dryer!! AHH!!
I was so glad I got to see Irina and her family, as it had been since January since I had last seen her! She brought me an awesome care package full of goodies from home!! We had a lot to catch up on, and I hope she's able to make it back to Botswana before my 2 years are up!
Friday: Friday morning I woke up around 4am and headed back to Cape Town to catch my 8:30am flight!! I didnt really have any problems, just took the wrong turn off on the N1...but it was easily fixed! I caught my 8:30am flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg, took a taxi from the airport to the bus station and than waited for my bus back to Gaborone.
Well my bus was about 30 minutes late; than we sat in about 2 hours of traffic in Johannesburg; and than all of a sudden we pulled over in the middle of no where. Well for some reason (still dont know why) my bus broke down...so than we had to sit for about 3 hours till a new bus came. Finally a new bus came; but we were still far away from the border and there was a debate as to whether or not the border closed at 10pm or 12pm. If it closed at 10pm, we werent going to make it over boarder. Someone finally called to see what time they closed; and luckily they closed at 12pm. We finally made a stop at a gas station-and I hadnt eaten all day, so lucky for me, I got to have Nik Naks for dinner (aka cheetos). But I was happy because we finally made it over the border and I made it home around midnight! Clearly my vacation was coming to an end...stranded on a broken down bus, followed by Nik Naks for dinner...ha. Welcome back to Botswana.
So I had a great vacation, and found the all of solo-me time to actually be quite nice! I gave myself the weekend to get back into the swing of things and first thing Monday morning I have my first STEPS screening with mary!! We will be screening a film to the Form 2 classes at my Junior Secondary schools on Monday+Tuesday; I'll be heading to her village on Friday; and than Nov. 2nd we'll finish at my school. Im excited to be jumping right into things!!
Here are pictures: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2465263&id=7813917&l=4e30803426
Of course during this week I had SOO much to do including finalizing plans between me and Irina; as well as prepare myself for my STEPS screenings with Mary (fellow PCV) for when I returned. I was in touch with Irina, who was already in South Africa and it turned out that she was actually going to be in Velddrif (up the west coast) during the time that I was set to be in Cape Town. So I decided to book a hostel for 3 days so that I could see the sites of Cape Town and than make my way to Velddrif to see Irina and her family. However, finding public transportation of any sort was slightly impossible and it was coming to the point where I was probably going to have to rent a car (YIKES!). I also looked at the 10 day forecast and saw that it was pretty much going to rain the 3 days I was to be in Cape Town. My vacation was off to a good start...
Saturday: I woke up early to catch my 6am bus to Johannesburg. Took a cab to the airport and waited for about 5 hours for my flight to Cape Town. I was picked up at the Cape Town Airport by the hostel shuttle service. I have to add that on my way to the hostel; we passed an accident in which there was a body lying in the middle of the freeway. According to my driver, it was most likely some IDIOT trying to cross the freeway!! He said that he hears about it at least once a day. Yay. Welcome to Cape Town.
Arrived at the Backpackers and Africa Travel Centre and wasn't very pleased. It was a nice little hostel; but it was DEAD. I was also not given a room with lockers (when they said they would) and the lady at the front desk also charged my card when I asked her not to. So I spent one night there...and than walked over to 2 other hostels in the area on Sunday Morning.
Sunday: I walked over to CapeTown Backpackers and was greeted by a very nice young woman who could tell I was stressed and offered me a cup of coffee. I could tell this was a much better environment! So I dropped my stuff off and asked for suggestions on what to do since it was Sunday (and most seemed to be closed) and it was rainy. As suggested, I walked down to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.
The waterfront was filled with shops, restaurants, and craft vendors. I also hopped on the City Sightseeing double decker bus and rode around a bit to several of the different places. However, of course as soon as I got off, it started to POUR...so I ran back to my hostel to change and grab my rain coat. Than I walked down Long Street a bit, but found most of the stuff closed. However I did find the Green Market Square, which had a bunch of local African craft vendors. I know this is lame...but I had been wanting to see it-so I ended my night with dinner and saw Eat, Pray, Love. I went back to the hostel and found a bunch of people hanging out at the little bar.
I ended up meeting three young women, who had all met each other while being Au Pairs in New York several years ago. They were all travelling together and visiting some other Au Pairs who lived in South Africa. Two of the girls-Farina and Tina-were from Germany; and Jenny was from Sweden. (For those that may not know, my family used to have Au Pairs and I have also been to Sweden to visit ours; so naturally conversation sparked pretty quickly! I had mentioned wanting to see Robben Island, but it was sold out; and it turns out they had an extra ticket for Monday and graciously offered for me to join them!!
Monday: So I woke up early to grab breakfast with my Au Pair posse and headed down to see if our Robben Island tour was still on. Unfortunately winds were too high and the water was too choppy; so our tour got cancelled. We didnt really have a back up plan; so we ended up walking around the craft sheds at the waterfront and than headed to the Slave Lodge Museum. I found a lady who did pottery and mosaics and LOVED her stuff!! I bought a casserole dish with little elephants but the thing I really wanted to buy was a safari animal mosaic mirror! It was so cool but there was no way it was going to fit in my luggage!! Afterwards, we went our separate ways; and I made my way down to Camps Bay, since the sun was finally starting to come out.
Camps Bay was ABSOLUTELY beautiful!!! You had ocean on one side; and unbelievable views of Table Mountain, Lions head and the Twelve Apostles behind you. I had only wished it was a bit warmer. It was so nice to walk along the beach and see WATER!!! I tried to take a picture of my feet in the water...and than managed to get completely soaked up to my knees.
I ended up climbing up some rocks by the water and just sat there in complete solitude for about 3 hours and watched the sunset. It was SOOOO pleasant and probably one of my most memorable parts of my trip. I had no where to be; nothing to do; and no one to worry about. The Camps bay area had a few shops and restaurants; and found them to be a bit ritzy and pricey...but heck, I was on vacation (and hungry). So I enjoyed nachos and a margarita on the balcony of a restaurant, overlooking the beach! I went back to the hostel and hung out at the bar, where I met some other travellers, as well as my Au Pair posse. I met some other people from Florida, LA, Germany, and Australia.
Tuesday: So Tuesday was probably the best day...not only because the weather was finally cooperating but because I also went...PARAGLIDING!!!!!
Before I left for Cape Town, I had actually seen an ad for paragliding and decided I definitely wanted to do it. However, due to the weather I was unable to do it on Monday; and than was really hoping it would happen on Tuesday. Well I called the company and they said to meet them up at Lions Head and that there might be a chance we could fly!! So I met my tandem para glider, Jacques up by Lions Head, and he told me the winds werent good from Lions head, so we were going to go check out Signal Hill. Jacques said he had been paragliding for over 15 years now and couldnt even count the amount of times he's gone (after joking around with me as this only his 2nd flight..righhht). He said flights usually last from about 15-30 minutes. (He told me I should definitely come back in the summer-as its happened 7 times-where theyve taken off from Lions head; the wind took them up to Table Mountain; and than back down to the ocean-overall being about 30-45 minutes---Um..YES PLEASE!!) So we were up at Signal Hill for probably about an hour and he decided the winds werent too strong; and they were in the right direction for us!! So we started to gear up (and for some strange reason...I wasnt nervous at all...despite the fact that I was about to run off a mountain and I've never liked this kind of stuff!)
He told me we would start walking forward and a bit; and that when he said run...RUN. There were some bushes that we were most likely going to go through and he said don't mind the bushes...just keep running! We had a ton of on-lookers as we were all geared up and literally just standing there waiting for the right wind (for about 15 minutes). I told my instructor that standing there was slightly torturous. Than all of a sudden he screamed...RUN!! So overall we had a pretty smooth take off and we were flying in the air for about 15 minutes!!! We took off of Signal Hill and flew right over the city. Table mountain was behind us; Lions head was the to left of us; V+A Waterfront was to the right; and the ocean was straight ahead of us. He took a bunch of pictures and so did I! Once we got over the ocean, he started to do a few tricks back and forth and than we landed on a patch of green grass right by the beach. It was definitely an incredible experience and I really loved it!
So after my paragliding adventure, I decided to hike up Lions Head. Since I'm so out of shape, the climb probably took me about an hour and 1/2 and I found it to be a really pleasant hike. The views from the top were beautiful. (Everyone had said make sure to go up Table Mountain-which didnt happen) but the views OF Table mountain from where I was-were incredible. So I sat up at the top for about an hour or so overlooking the ocean+robben island, the twelve apostles, and table mountain. On my way down, I actually bumped into a girl who asked me if the hike was safe(since she was doing it alone) and I told her I didnt have any problems, as I just did it solo and you pass other hikers along the way. (This part of my story is relevant I promise...just wait.)
So after hiking I decided to walk down Long Street along the shops and than made my way back down to the Waterfront for dinner. (This entire trip I was indulging in food x10...and it was great!) I had steak and veggies with a nice glass of wine. Just as I was finishing up dinner, the young girl who I had passed early on Lions Head, passed me and I asked how the rest of her hike was. She said it went well and than I found out she was from Tennessee but went to the University of Virginia! So I ended up grabbing a glass of wine with Lindsay and we chatted it up for a few hours. We both went back to our hostels for a bit; but decided we would meet up with each other to go out. So I met her at her hostel-on Long Street- where we we first met two guys from France; and than went to Mama Africa's (with some awesome music) and met 3 guys from Germany. I also met (Lindsay had met him at her hostel) a guy from Texas who was volunteering with Mercy Ships--I had heard about this from another PCV--and it's a NGO that uses old cruise liners and in a sense-turned them into travelling hospitals. They go from country to country (I think mostly around Africa) offering medical services of all sorts to those in need. The guy I met was actually doing PR-and would go to the various countries before the ships arrived to publicize the ships arrival to clinics, hospitals, etc. Overall, it was a pretty awesome last night in Cape Town.
Wednesday: So all throughout the week I was still trying to find a way to get to Velddrif. But after asking the travel desk at my hostel; the Cape Town tourism office, and the front desk of Port Owen Marina (where Irina was staying)....they all said I should rent a car. So I finally caved in...and decided to rent a car, seeing how it was going to be the only way I would see Irina.
So on Tuesday, the travel desk set up a reservation with a car company and I would be picked up and brought to the car rental office on Wednesday morning. Everything was pretty much set and ready to go, I just needed to pay. Ha. Easier said than done.
So I had not used my Botswana credit card at all-as I planned to use that solely for my car rental. Well it turns out I couldnt use it because it didn't have the raised name and number-and they had to make an impression of my card. So I had to use my other card...which was fine, because I knew I had enough money on there. However, it seems as though my bank had decided to CUT OFF my card...and I didnt know why. I had been using the card this entire time and had not had a problem with it. Well it turns out (after a lot of stress and finally calling Wachovia) that they cut it off for security purposes to make sure it was still me using the card. What I had thought would be an easy pick up...ended up being a 2 hour ordeal...but finally I got the car!! I was given a small, red Automatic Hyundai! I was pretty nervous about driving on the left side of the road and also not used to having the steering wheel on the right side!! But the directions to where Irina was seemed pretty easy...and they were!!!
It took me about 2 hours to get to Port Owen Marina and I was on the highway mostly, so I didnt have to worry about remembering to be on the left side of the road!! Irina and her family were staying at the Port Owen Marina time shares and on Wednesday we mostly just hung out and talked!! We did go walk along the beach and found a baby sea lion!! We had an awesome stir fry dinner and I was lame and went to bed at like 9:30 since I was so tired!!
Thursday: I must have been tired, seeing how I slept in until 10am!!! (I havent slept in past 8am since Ive been in Botswana!!) We had breakfast and than took a road trip up to Elands Bay and Lambert's Bay. They seemed to be small fishing towns, but not much going on besides that. We had lunch at a small restaurant in Lambert's Bay and also took some walks along the beaches throughout the day. We hung out, watched tv, and packed that night. I even got to do my laundry in a washer and dryer!! AHH!!
I was so glad I got to see Irina and her family, as it had been since January since I had last seen her! She brought me an awesome care package full of goodies from home!! We had a lot to catch up on, and I hope she's able to make it back to Botswana before my 2 years are up!
Friday: Friday morning I woke up around 4am and headed back to Cape Town to catch my 8:30am flight!! I didnt really have any problems, just took the wrong turn off on the N1...but it was easily fixed! I caught my 8:30am flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg, took a taxi from the airport to the bus station and than waited for my bus back to Gaborone.
Well my bus was about 30 minutes late; than we sat in about 2 hours of traffic in Johannesburg; and than all of a sudden we pulled over in the middle of no where. Well for some reason (still dont know why) my bus broke down...so than we had to sit for about 3 hours till a new bus came. Finally a new bus came; but we were still far away from the border and there was a debate as to whether or not the border closed at 10pm or 12pm. If it closed at 10pm, we werent going to make it over boarder. Someone finally called to see what time they closed; and luckily they closed at 12pm. We finally made a stop at a gas station-and I hadnt eaten all day, so lucky for me, I got to have Nik Naks for dinner (aka cheetos). But I was happy because we finally made it over the border and I made it home around midnight! Clearly my vacation was coming to an end...stranded on a broken down bus, followed by Nik Naks for dinner...ha. Welcome back to Botswana.
So I had a great vacation, and found the all of solo-me time to actually be quite nice! I gave myself the weekend to get back into the swing of things and first thing Monday morning I have my first STEPS screening with mary!! We will be screening a film to the Form 2 classes at my Junior Secondary schools on Monday+Tuesday; I'll be heading to her village on Friday; and than Nov. 2nd we'll finish at my school. Im excited to be jumping right into things!!
Here are pictures: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2465263&id=7813917&l=4e30803426
Monday, October 4, 2010
I just ate sand for breakfast...
Overall, after coming back from IST, I've been feeling pretty optimistic and motivated lately! We're starting to draft up an 8 month workplan and I think it's really helped me think of the things I want to be doing here! Ive had a lot going on and before I know it...It'll be Thanksgiving! My 6 month mark is creeping up in 6 days!! CRAZY!!
Unfortunately today Ive been a bit down and find myself frustrated with several adults that just don't seem to understand or seem to want my help at all. And I've also been feeling a bit sick...but im heading to the medical office tomorrow and hopefully I'll get the day off to rest.
A huge THANK YOU to my Aunt and my friend, Michele for some awesome care packages! I had a slip for THREE packages and even though I had every intention of carrying them home...was surprised to find THREE packages that could not be carried!! I had to call my driver and ask him to pick me up!! My aunt sent me goodies to make my home feel even homier and a hammock!!! I put it up this past weekend...and even though I think I need step-by-step video instructions on how to lay in the "brazillian" hammock...Im excited to have something to relax and read in!!!
The weather here is starting to warm up FAST!!! On our long commute home...I think I drank about 3 bottles of water and my body just quickly soaked it up!! At one point we saw that it was about 97 deg at about 3pm in the afternoon! My house is starting to warm up and needless to say im NOT excited about summer!
HIV/AIDS Fair: A few weeks ago my office held a HIV/AIDS fair! The fair (not the same concept as home) consisted of speakers and entertainment in the morning till about lunch time; and than people could view the booths/stalls afterwards. Slizer, the local artist that I saw filming her music video when I first got to Botswana performed in her full on cheetah print get up!! I had been at work till about 6pm the night before (as 10 people took 8 hours to set up 3 tents); got up around 5am the day of the fair; and worked till about 6pm the day of the fair. It was definitely a long couple of days!!
I got kinda frustrated once the fair was over because there were about 15 people(at first) helping take everything down and my DAC sat there and read the newspaper. We only had 1 truck to transport things; but eventually there were only about 5 people actually working. At one point, one of the guys told me to sit down and rest and I said um no...I just want to go home. The faster we get this stuff cleaned up, the sooner we can go home.
However, overall I thought the fair was a success. There were about 300+ people there. There were about 12 NGO/CBOs/Organizations that put up a table. Since all the different organizations were there, I was able to walk around and talk to several people. It actually felt nice, because I realized more people knew me than I feel like.
Meeting with my counterpart: I had my meeting with my counterpart and my program director! Despite the fact that my counterpart was 45 min late...we were able to talk for a bit and covered the important things. Before my counterpart came, my program director and I sat down and tweaked my list of things I want to be able to do. I beefed up my list and gave it to my counterpart to look over before we talk. Here are a few of the things I am interested in pursuing...some may happen, some may not. I still feel a bit tied down by my counterpart but hoping it will get better!!
-Spending time at the SOS Children's Village Kindergarten. Id like to help create themed weeks for the kindergarten surrcounding wellness by incorporating important topics with fun activities-including safety, strangers, hand washing, nutrition, etc.)
-As I said before I have been trained in STEPS-which uses short films to encourage discussions on topics related to HIV/AIDS. Another Peace Corps Volunteer and I decided to screen some of the films together. So I actually had a meeting today with the guidance councellor at the Tlokweng Junior Secondary School. We will be screening the Form 2 classes at my school at the end of October; and the Form 3 classes at my friends village (Kumakwane) towards the end of October too! Im definitely excited about it! The other PCV and I started planning last weekend and we both feel really motivated and excited! I hope to work with the Nkaikela Youth Group, who focuses on sex workers; in getting active participation from students for a PACT/Abstinence/wellness club.
--In talking with several of the Peace Corps Life Skills volunteers, I’ve heard a strong need for positive reinforcements in schools. Since I took an entire course in college regarding positive reinforcements and dealing with behaviour problems in schools; I would love to present a workshop/presentation to teachers.
--The use of computers continues to grow in offices all over Tlokweng; and I get a lot of comments on how fast I can type. (Looks like the Super Mario typing program my mom made me practice with paid off!) So I would like to give some form of typing classes; maybe at SOS, adults (even in our office), or youth. However, I need to find a computer lab of some sort and see if there would be interest.
--I would like to spend time at the I am Special school, and possibly coaching/encouraging involvement in a Special Olympics sports team (possibly with the help of a youth/adult sports team together). We can also use the sports team as a means of educating about HIV/AIDS, since the disabled population doesn’t seem to be reached often.
--I would like to help Le Rona re Teng (support group for people living with disabilities) with setting up a bank account, a meeting place, and anything else they may need help with.
Toyota 1000K Desert Race: The weekend of the 24th, there was a big race starting and finishing in my friend's village. We had a great weekend of cooking, drinking, good company and viewing the races!! It made me miss tailgating at home!!! The race featured dirt bikes, quads and cars/trucks. We got up early on Saturday morning to see the start of the race!
The quads were pretty uneventful; but when the cars came out they made sure to spray us all with the sand! Most of us had a healthy dose of sand for breakfast!! There were a couple of times I was worried they would run straight into the crowd!! The route was 1000K split into 2 days and went all around the surrounding areas.
Skype session with 2 high school classes: My friend Mary is student teaching at a high school in Pennsylvania and asked if I would be willing to skype with 2 of her classes!! I gladly said yes and the sessions went really well! It was weird knowing my face was huge on a big projector screen as I looked onto 20 or so students! I just talked about general information on Peace Corps and my job description here in Botswana. The students asked questions regarding weather, food, cultural differences, Peace Corps influence, travelling, etc. Doing my best to meet the 3rd Peace Corps goal...Sharing information with Americans back home about my host country!!
Wellness Walk: Last week the PCV in Gaborone was hosting a wellness walk for her office and the Home Based Care Center. I went along to support her and help her out. Another volunteer from up north also came down. There were about 40 people who walked from the District Commissioner's office to the Home based care center. The idea was to walk there and back before 10am. However, we needed to get police escorts (protocol), and they ended up showing up late. And than we showed them the designated route but instead they took us through all the main roads and we slowed all the traffic down!! It ended up being a pretty rushed walk; and none of the Batswana walked back; but overall I think it was a success!!
Camping in Nata: Last weekend was a 4 day weekend because Thursday was Botswana's Independence day! So about 25 volunteers went up North to Nata to camp out on the salt pans! A couple of volunteers from around my area came to my house wednesday night; we woke up at 4am to catch a 5:45am bus to Francistown (about 5 hours); ended up waiting in the F-town rank for like 2 hours; caught a bus to Nata (about 2.5 hours) and finally made it!! We camped out on the salt pans Thursday night. The pan is huge and extends for miles (during the rainy season theres about an inch of water that lines the pans and it looks like you're walking on an ocean!) We watched the sunset; cooked some food on the braai; made a bonfire; and walked out to see the stars! It was absolutely beautiful! I had never seen the Milky Way so that was really cool! Than we got up around 5:30am to see the sunrise and headed back into Nata!
Several volunteers went back to Francistown; and a couple of us stayed in Nata till Saturday. We were hoping to see hippos or elephants but unfortunately no such luck! I will see some exciting wildlife soon enough!!! We cooked out again at my friend's house and than headed back Saturday for another long trip back to gaborone.
Up Next: I leave for Cape Town on Saturday!! Due to some mix ups with our travel arrangements; I will be staying at a hostel in Cape Town for a few days and seeing the sights around there. Than ill head up the coast to Velddrif to see Irina and her family!! Im definitely reallly excited!!! I hope to go to Table Mountain, Robben Island, and Victoria Waterfront!
I have also posted pictures on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2460431&id=7813917&l=a3786ac3ee
Unfortunately today Ive been a bit down and find myself frustrated with several adults that just don't seem to understand or seem to want my help at all. And I've also been feeling a bit sick...but im heading to the medical office tomorrow and hopefully I'll get the day off to rest.
A huge THANK YOU to my Aunt and my friend, Michele for some awesome care packages! I had a slip for THREE packages and even though I had every intention of carrying them home...was surprised to find THREE packages that could not be carried!! I had to call my driver and ask him to pick me up!! My aunt sent me goodies to make my home feel even homier and a hammock!!! I put it up this past weekend...and even though I think I need step-by-step video instructions on how to lay in the "brazillian" hammock...Im excited to have something to relax and read in!!!
The weather here is starting to warm up FAST!!! On our long commute home...I think I drank about 3 bottles of water and my body just quickly soaked it up!! At one point we saw that it was about 97 deg at about 3pm in the afternoon! My house is starting to warm up and needless to say im NOT excited about summer!
HIV/AIDS Fair: A few weeks ago my office held a HIV/AIDS fair! The fair (not the same concept as home) consisted of speakers and entertainment in the morning till about lunch time; and than people could view the booths/stalls afterwards. Slizer, the local artist that I saw filming her music video when I first got to Botswana performed in her full on cheetah print get up!! I had been at work till about 6pm the night before (as 10 people took 8 hours to set up 3 tents); got up around 5am the day of the fair; and worked till about 6pm the day of the fair. It was definitely a long couple of days!!
I got kinda frustrated once the fair was over because there were about 15 people(at first) helping take everything down and my DAC sat there and read the newspaper. We only had 1 truck to transport things; but eventually there were only about 5 people actually working. At one point, one of the guys told me to sit down and rest and I said um no...I just want to go home. The faster we get this stuff cleaned up, the sooner we can go home. 
However, overall I thought the fair was a success. There were about 300+ people there. There were about 12 NGO/CBOs/Organizations that put up a table. Since all the different organizations were there, I was able to walk around and talk to several people. It actually felt nice, because I realized more people knew me than I feel like.
Meeting with my counterpart: I had my meeting with my counterpart and my program director! Despite the fact that my counterpart was 45 min late...we were able to talk for a bit and covered the important things. Before my counterpart came, my program director and I sat down and tweaked my list of things I want to be able to do. I beefed up my list and gave it to my counterpart to look over before we talk. Here are a few of the things I am interested in pursuing...some may happen, some may not. I still feel a bit tied down by my counterpart but hoping it will get better!!
-Spending time at the SOS Children's Village Kindergarten. Id like to help create themed weeks for the kindergarten surrcounding wellness by incorporating important topics with fun activities-including safety, strangers, hand washing, nutrition, etc.)
-As I said before I have been trained in STEPS-which uses short films to encourage discussions on topics related to HIV/AIDS. Another Peace Corps Volunteer and I decided to screen some of the films together. So I actually had a meeting today with the guidance councellor at the Tlokweng Junior Secondary School. We will be screening the Form 2 classes at my school at the end of October; and the Form 3 classes at my friends village (Kumakwane) towards the end of October too! Im definitely excited about it! The other PCV and I started planning last weekend and we both feel really motivated and excited! I hope to work with the Nkaikela Youth Group, who focuses on sex workers; in getting active participation from students for a PACT/Abstinence/wellness club.
--In talking with several of the Peace Corps Life Skills volunteers, I’ve heard a strong need for positive reinforcements in schools. Since I took an entire course in college regarding positive reinforcements and dealing with behaviour problems in schools; I would love to present a workshop/presentation to teachers.
--The use of computers continues to grow in offices all over Tlokweng; and I get a lot of comments on how fast I can type. (Looks like the Super Mario typing program my mom made me practice with paid off!) So I would like to give some form of typing classes; maybe at SOS, adults (even in our office), or youth. However, I need to find a computer lab of some sort and see if there would be interest.
--I would like to spend time at the I am Special school, and possibly coaching/encouraging involvement in a Special Olympics sports team (possibly with the help of a youth/adult sports team together). We can also use the sports team as a means of educating about HIV/AIDS, since the disabled population doesn’t seem to be reached often.
--I would like to help Le Rona re Teng (support group for people living with disabilities) with setting up a bank account, a meeting place, and anything else they may need help with.
Toyota 1000K Desert Race: The weekend of the 24th, there was a big race starting and finishing in my friend's village. We had a great weekend of cooking, drinking, good company and viewing the races!! It made me miss tailgating at home!!! The race featured dirt bikes, quads and cars/trucks. We got up early on Saturday morning to see the start of the race!
The quads were pretty uneventful; but when the cars came out they made sure to spray us all with the sand! Most of us had a healthy dose of sand for breakfast!! There were a couple of times I was worried they would run straight into the crowd!! The route was 1000K split into 2 days and went all around the surrounding areas. Skype session with 2 high school classes: My friend Mary is student teaching at a high school in Pennsylvania and asked if I would be willing to skype with 2 of her classes!! I gladly said yes and the sessions went really well! It was weird knowing my face was huge on a big projector screen as I looked onto 20 or so students! I just talked about general information on Peace Corps and my job description here in Botswana. The students asked questions regarding weather, food, cultural differences, Peace Corps influence, travelling, etc. Doing my best to meet the 3rd Peace Corps goal...Sharing information with Americans back home about my host country!!
Wellness Walk: Last week the PCV in Gaborone was hosting a wellness walk for her office and the Home Based Care Center. I went along to support her and help her out. Another volunteer from up north also came down. There were about 40 people who walked from the District Commissioner's office to the Home based care center. The idea was to walk there and back before 10am. However, we needed to get police escorts (protocol), and they ended up showing up late. And than we showed them the designated route but instead they took us through all the main roads and we slowed all the traffic down!! It ended up being a pretty rushed walk; and none of the Batswana walked back; but overall I think it was a success!!
Camping in Nata: Last weekend was a 4 day weekend because Thursday was Botswana's Independence day! So about 25 volunteers went up North to Nata to camp out on the salt pans! A couple of volunteers from around my area came to my house wednesday night; we woke up at 4am to catch a 5:45am bus to Francistown (about 5 hours); ended up waiting in the F-town rank for like 2 hours; caught a bus to Nata (about 2.5 hours) and finally made it!! We camped out on the salt pans Thursday night. The pan is huge and extends for miles (during the rainy season theres about an inch of water that lines the pans and it looks like you're walking on an ocean!) We watched the sunset; cooked some food on the braai; made a bonfire; and walked out to see the stars! It was absolutely beautiful! I had never seen the Milky Way so that was really cool! Than we got up around 5:30am to see the sunrise and headed back into Nata!
Several volunteers went back to Francistown; and a couple of us stayed in Nata till Saturday. We were hoping to see hippos or elephants but unfortunately no such luck! I will see some exciting wildlife soon enough!!! We cooked out again at my friend's house and than headed back Saturday for another long trip back to gaborone.
Up Next: I leave for Cape Town on Saturday!! Due to some mix ups with our travel arrangements; I will be staying at a hostel in Cape Town for a few days and seeing the sights around there. Than ill head up the coast to Velddrif to see Irina and her family!! Im definitely reallly excited!!! I hope to go to Table Mountain, Robben Island, and Victoria Waterfront!
I have also posted pictures on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2460431&id=7813917&l=a3786ac3ee
Sunday, September 19, 2010
IST, STEPS, Birthday, and Kitty!!!
So I believe I last left you all during my IST (In-Service Training)...And I was hoping to be able to write good things about the counterpart workshop. Well...Two guesses as to WHO was counterpart-less for the workshop?! Yup. Thats right. Me. All details aside...I didnt have a counterpart for the Peace Corps counterpart workshop OR the STEPS training. Ridiculous seeing how it was in MY village.
STEPS: BUT on a happier note the STEPS training was awesome. I felt bad that I was not 100% engaged because I was just so burnt out from the 2 weeks of IST.
A little background on STEPS: (Social Transformation and Empowerment Projects) was formed in South Africa in 2001. South African filmmakers and people living positively with HIV came together to create 38 films (most are documentaries depicting real life stories) that would be shown around the world. The films focus on hope, inspiration and positive living and provoke and encourage audiences to discuss and debate HIV/AIDS related topics.
So this training that we took part in was to be Facilitator's to the STEPS films. We learned about the learning cycle; characteristics of a good facilitator; preparing, planning, and the layout for a facilitated screening; and evaluating your screening.
On the first day I was wondering what the heck I was doing in the room. Even though I think its a great idea and the films are fantastic; I dont like speaking in front of people. But this helped show me that during my time here in Botswana; one of my personal goals is to feel more comfortable speaking in front of people. So we'll see how this goes...
Im really interested in using the films for youth and possibly for the sex worker population in Tlokweng. One of the other volunteers suggested we do some screenings together. So now I'll be trying to talk to the schools and one of the NGO's- Nkaikela Youth Group in helping me to start planning for a possible screening.
BIRTHDAY: So first off, Thanks for all the birthday wishes! I had a pretty great 23rd this year! We celebrated my birthday on Friday the 10th (to allow people who lived farther away to be leave Saturday to get back to their villages). I knew I was going to be making 2 pans of lasagna, garlic bread, and chocolate cake!! But the food preparations started on Tuesday!! Tuesday I made homemade Ricotta cheese; Wednesday I made the sauce; Thursday I compiled all the lasagna; and Friday I baked it! My friend helped cook the chocolate cake and when I got home on Friday; we made icing and managed to make an awesome 3 layer chocolate cake with vanilla icing!! I had about 12 people over for dinner and it was definitely a success!! Than we all piled in a combi and picked a few other people up and went to a bar called the Bull&Bush. We danced and hung out and although there was some drama here and there...overall it was a fun night!!
For my actual birthday, I had several people just hanging out at my place and than we went to dinner at a restaurant/coffee shop called Mugg&Bean. It was a chill day but my night ended with a GREAT birthday present! While everyone else was watching an episode of True Blood; I decided to go on ESPN.com and see if I could watch the JMU vs. VT game! I didnt actually get to see a streaming video; but I watched the GameCast-which allowed me to see what plays were being done! And I was SUPER PUMPED when JMU BEAT VIRGINIA TECH 21-16!!! SUCH A BIG WIN!!! WAY TO GO DUKES!!! Needless to say my friends didnt really know why I was screaming...and I was definitely the only one excited. Ha. Sad I couldnt be there...but cant wait to see how the rest of the season spans out!! I saw from facebook statuses-that everyone was all purpled out on the following Monday and even though I couldnt wear my Purple out shirt at work...I did wear it at home!!
FIRST WEEK BACK TO WORK SINCE IST: So I walked in on Monday prepared to talk to my DAC to see when my APCD could come to our office so that all 3 of us could talk. Well...funny thing. Turns out my DAC was out of the office ALL week for a workshop. And my APCD cant meet this week...so we finally have a meeting set up for the 27th. I'll let you know how that goes...and until than..I continue to coast.
But since my DAC wasnt around this week, I was mostly in the office in the mornings and left in the afternoon to go check in with some of the NGOs. And on Wednesday and Friday I spent most of the day at SOS! I went to the kindergarten both days and found the kids to be SUPER cute!! Aside from their constant punching and kicking each other; they are definitely cute and since I'm new...they were all fighting for my un-divided attention!
I did find it hard to communicate with them since they only know a very little english. They all call me "teacher." And they all wanted to show me what they were doing on the playground or wanted me to push them on the swings. I hope to go to SOS at least twice a week; and Im not sure if I'll stay for the full day-as I think they'll burn me out!!
In my DAC office, we're preparing for the HIV/AIDS fair which is this Thursday. This should be interesting...especially since I just found out there are a bunch of people going on strike. Im not 100% sure whats going on, since no one ever tells me. But I know the teachers are striking this week, as they want higher pay. Ive been told by Peace Corps; that if people are striking in my office to just go out and do community work to prevent being seen as taking 1 side or another.
KITTEN: I got my kitten today!! Amy and Colin (the PCV married couple, who's cat had kittens) dropped her off this morning!! Shes currently playing with a very intriguing piece of tin foil. She came in and explored the house a bit and it seems as though she's adjusting rather well! Now we're both trying to catch the two flies in my house that are driving me nuts! Im ready with a magazine in hand...and she's ready to pounce!
Ive posted pictures on facebook from my birthday, SOS and my kitten!! Heres the link:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2386294&id=7813917&l=c08061b274
STEPS: BUT on a happier note the STEPS training was awesome. I felt bad that I was not 100% engaged because I was just so burnt out from the 2 weeks of IST.
A little background on STEPS: (Social Transformation and Empowerment Projects) was formed in South Africa in 2001. South African filmmakers and people living positively with HIV came together to create 38 films (most are documentaries depicting real life stories) that would be shown around the world. The films focus on hope, inspiration and positive living and provoke and encourage audiences to discuss and debate HIV/AIDS related topics.
So this training that we took part in was to be Facilitator's to the STEPS films. We learned about the learning cycle; characteristics of a good facilitator; preparing, planning, and the layout for a facilitated screening; and evaluating your screening.
On the first day I was wondering what the heck I was doing in the room. Even though I think its a great idea and the films are fantastic; I dont like speaking in front of people. But this helped show me that during my time here in Botswana; one of my personal goals is to feel more comfortable speaking in front of people. So we'll see how this goes...
Im really interested in using the films for youth and possibly for the sex worker population in Tlokweng. One of the other volunteers suggested we do some screenings together. So now I'll be trying to talk to the schools and one of the NGO's- Nkaikela Youth Group in helping me to start planning for a possible screening.
BIRTHDAY: So first off, Thanks for all the birthday wishes! I had a pretty great 23rd this year! We celebrated my birthday on Friday the 10th (to allow people who lived farther away to be leave Saturday to get back to their villages). I knew I was going to be making 2 pans of lasagna, garlic bread, and chocolate cake!! But the food preparations started on Tuesday!! Tuesday I made homemade Ricotta cheese; Wednesday I made the sauce; Thursday I compiled all the lasagna; and Friday I baked it! My friend helped cook the chocolate cake and when I got home on Friday; we made icing and managed to make an awesome 3 layer chocolate cake with vanilla icing!! I had about 12 people over for dinner and it was definitely a success!! Than we all piled in a combi and picked a few other people up and went to a bar called the Bull&Bush. We danced and hung out and although there was some drama here and there...overall it was a fun night!!
For my actual birthday, I had several people just hanging out at my place and than we went to dinner at a restaurant/coffee shop called Mugg&Bean. It was a chill day but my night ended with a GREAT birthday present! While everyone else was watching an episode of True Blood; I decided to go on ESPN.com and see if I could watch the JMU vs. VT game! I didnt actually get to see a streaming video; but I watched the GameCast-which allowed me to see what plays were being done! And I was SUPER PUMPED when JMU BEAT VIRGINIA TECH 21-16!!! SUCH A BIG WIN!!! WAY TO GO DUKES!!! Needless to say my friends didnt really know why I was screaming...and I was definitely the only one excited. Ha. Sad I couldnt be there...but cant wait to see how the rest of the season spans out!! I saw from facebook statuses-that everyone was all purpled out on the following Monday and even though I couldnt wear my Purple out shirt at work...I did wear it at home!!
FIRST WEEK BACK TO WORK SINCE IST: So I walked in on Monday prepared to talk to my DAC to see when my APCD could come to our office so that all 3 of us could talk. Well...funny thing. Turns out my DAC was out of the office ALL week for a workshop. And my APCD cant meet this week...so we finally have a meeting set up for the 27th. I'll let you know how that goes...and until than..I continue to coast.
But since my DAC wasnt around this week, I was mostly in the office in the mornings and left in the afternoon to go check in with some of the NGOs. And on Wednesday and Friday I spent most of the day at SOS! I went to the kindergarten both days and found the kids to be SUPER cute!! Aside from their constant punching and kicking each other; they are definitely cute and since I'm new...they were all fighting for my un-divided attention!
I did find it hard to communicate with them since they only know a very little english. They all call me "teacher." And they all wanted to show me what they were doing on the playground or wanted me to push them on the swings. I hope to go to SOS at least twice a week; and Im not sure if I'll stay for the full day-as I think they'll burn me out!!
In my DAC office, we're preparing for the HIV/AIDS fair which is this Thursday. This should be interesting...especially since I just found out there are a bunch of people going on strike. Im not 100% sure whats going on, since no one ever tells me. But I know the teachers are striking this week, as they want higher pay. Ive been told by Peace Corps; that if people are striking in my office to just go out and do community work to prevent being seen as taking 1 side or another.
KITTEN: I got my kitten today!! Amy and Colin (the PCV married couple, who's cat had kittens) dropped her off this morning!! Shes currently playing with a very intriguing piece of tin foil. She came in and explored the house a bit and it seems as though she's adjusting rather well! Now we're both trying to catch the two flies in my house that are driving me nuts! Im ready with a magazine in hand...and she's ready to pounce!
Ive posted pictures on facebook from my birthday, SOS and my kitten!! Heres the link:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2386294&id=7813917&l=c08061b274
Monday, September 6, 2010
Letter from the House of Reps...say what??
On a completely random note...I was handed a letter from my Country Director on our first day of training and when asked what it was; she simply said she wasnt sure, just that Washington DC told her to give it to me. So I opened it up and was quite surprised to find a letter on the House of Representatives stationary from my Congressman, Frank Wolf. The letter stated,
"Dear Caitlin:
I recently learned that you will be serving as a volunteer with the Peace Corps in Botswana. As your representative in Congress, I was pelase to hear of your strong civic committment. Peace Corps volunteers make significant and sustainable contributions in countries around the world and I wish you the best in your time in Botswana.
Best wishes,
Sincerely,
Frank R. Wolf
Member of Congress
The letter was signed and a small, handwritten "Best Wishes" were placed on the bottom. (Normally I wouldnt think much of this--but I thought it was odd that no one else got any letter from their congressman's; not even the other volunteer from VA.) Ha. If I couldnt feel like I could leave before...now I really can't. I mean, I cant let my Congressman down...
So I've been at the Peace Corps In-Service Training (IST) since August 25th. The first 5 days, all 50 of the Bots 9 group volunteers were there. The NGO/Life Skills group had already been there for 2 weeks; and these 5 days were an overlap of the 4 groups. It was nice to finally see everyone after 2 months of lockdown; but at the same time I was really overwhelmed.
IST has mostly consisted of Setswana classes, presentations from various organizations (Ministry of Local Government, PEPFAR, support groups, etc.), and presentations on other topics or by other PCVs (on ARVs, OVCs, gardening/composting, Male circumcision, grants, project design management, etc.). The format of IST has been very similar to PST; and overall I think there have been several presentations I found to be useful.
I mostly find IST to be a valuable experience because it allows the volunteers to come together and share our experiences; and it has really helped get my mind thinking. During our District Community Liason de-briefing session, I actually got pretty emotional and found myself crying while trying to explain my situation. I think this actually helped showed my APCD that I'm not happy with my situation at the moment; and that I really need some help.
During a talk with my APCD, I was able to get a lot out of chest and I walked away feeling better. I drafted up a list of my wants/needs (going to SOS twice a week; being able to work on projects with other volunteers; being able to work from home; etc.) and showed my APCD. I wanted to make sure the list seemed reasonable and that it didnt come across to harshly. She said everything seemed to look good and that she planned to sit down with me, her, and my counterpart to go over everything. Now I can only hope that the meeting goes well...
Some exciting news...I booked my bus and plane flights for Cape Town!!! I will be heading down to Cape Town to see Irina and her family on October 9th-15th!! I am SUPER EXCITED!!! I have heard AMAZING things about Cape Town and I'm excited I'll get to see Irina!!
I have also found out that I will be getting my kitten on Sept. 19th!! It is a girl and I am currently looking for ideas on names...so if you have any suggestions let me know!! I'll post pictures as soon as I get her!!!
Up Next: Hopefully a good report about my meeting with my counterpart; birthday festivities; and pictures of my new kitten!!
** On a sad note, some of you may know; that a PCV in Lesotho was killed after a possbile attempted robbery. Im not sure how much media coverage is being displayed at home; but we were told this morning. I dont know the full details, but here is an article...
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/africa/09/05/lesotho.peace.corps.death/index.html#fbid=vhON0Kyb6JS&wom=false
I also dont mean to scare anyone by telling you this, as I am very safe in Botswana; but merely wish to pay respects. I urge you to keep him and his family in your prayers.
"Dear Caitlin:
I recently learned that you will be serving as a volunteer with the Peace Corps in Botswana. As your representative in Congress, I was pelase to hear of your strong civic committment. Peace Corps volunteers make significant and sustainable contributions in countries around the world and I wish you the best in your time in Botswana.
Best wishes,
Sincerely,
Frank R. Wolf
Member of Congress
The letter was signed and a small, handwritten "Best Wishes" were placed on the bottom. (Normally I wouldnt think much of this--but I thought it was odd that no one else got any letter from their congressman's; not even the other volunteer from VA.) Ha. If I couldnt feel like I could leave before...now I really can't. I mean, I cant let my Congressman down...
So I've been at the Peace Corps In-Service Training (IST) since August 25th. The first 5 days, all 50 of the Bots 9 group volunteers were there. The NGO/Life Skills group had already been there for 2 weeks; and these 5 days were an overlap of the 4 groups. It was nice to finally see everyone after 2 months of lockdown; but at the same time I was really overwhelmed.
IST has mostly consisted of Setswana classes, presentations from various organizations (Ministry of Local Government, PEPFAR, support groups, etc.), and presentations on other topics or by other PCVs (on ARVs, OVCs, gardening/composting, Male circumcision, grants, project design management, etc.). The format of IST has been very similar to PST; and overall I think there have been several presentations I found to be useful.
I mostly find IST to be a valuable experience because it allows the volunteers to come together and share our experiences; and it has really helped get my mind thinking. During our District Community Liason de-briefing session, I actually got pretty emotional and found myself crying while trying to explain my situation. I think this actually helped showed my APCD that I'm not happy with my situation at the moment; and that I really need some help.
During a talk with my APCD, I was able to get a lot out of chest and I walked away feeling better. I drafted up a list of my wants/needs (going to SOS twice a week; being able to work on projects with other volunteers; being able to work from home; etc.) and showed my APCD. I wanted to make sure the list seemed reasonable and that it didnt come across to harshly. She said everything seemed to look good and that she planned to sit down with me, her, and my counterpart to go over everything. Now I can only hope that the meeting goes well...
Some exciting news...I booked my bus and plane flights for Cape Town!!! I will be heading down to Cape Town to see Irina and her family on October 9th-15th!! I am SUPER EXCITED!!! I have heard AMAZING things about Cape Town and I'm excited I'll get to see Irina!!
I have also found out that I will be getting my kitten on Sept. 19th!! It is a girl and I am currently looking for ideas on names...so if you have any suggestions let me know!! I'll post pictures as soon as I get her!!!
Up Next: Hopefully a good report about my meeting with my counterpart; birthday festivities; and pictures of my new kitten!!
** On a sad note, some of you may know; that a PCV in Lesotho was killed after a possbile attempted robbery. Im not sure how much media coverage is being displayed at home; but we were told this morning. I dont know the full details, but here is an article...
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/africa/09/05/lesotho.peace.corps.death/index.html#fbid=vhON0Kyb6JS&wom=false
I also dont mean to scare anyone by telling you this, as I am very safe in Botswana; but merely wish to pay respects. I urge you to keep him and his family in your prayers.
Monday, August 23, 2010
2 Swedes, 2 Missionaries, and 1 Motswana
So I went to the SOS Children's Village last week! I went on Monday and Wednesday to help out with some computer classes. Schools are on break right now-so they had some set activities in place for the kids for the next couple of weeks. I was told I would meet another volunteer from Germany; and I could help her with the computer classes. Well on Monday, I went to SOS and there was no volunteer from Germany, but there were 2 other girls from Botswana that were there. They didnt really know what to do, so the kids just kind of putzed around on the computers. I went again on Wednesday in hopes of meeting the volunteer from Germany, but found out she had been sick, and wouldnt be there again. So this time, it was pretty much just me facilitating the computer classes. I hadnt come prepared; so I attempted to show them the beginnings of a typing lesson--but they werent very interested. So unfortunately, my time this past week wasnt all that exciting--but it was definitely better than being in the office.
I wont be going back to SOS until after IST; which will hopefully be nice, since school will be back in session, which means I'll get to volunteer at the kindergarten!
But this has definitely been a week of meeting new people!! On Monday at SOS I met 2 young guys from Sweden!! They are here taking foreign exchange nursing classes at the University of Botswana (UB) till December. And they are looking for some places to volunteer--and I didnt get to talk to them too much, but I hope I'll see them around again. Than on Wednesday, again at SOS, I briefly met 2 young guys who were mormons from the US. They had both been here for over a year and were from Idaho and Oregon. And lastly-in an attempt to make my way to the Orange (cell phone company) store at Main Mall in Gaborone--I was on a combi and a young guy asked me if I was chinese (and I was ready to brush him off and say no, Im American; like I have said to SOOO many others) but since I was kinda lost, I decided to ask him for directions. He laughed at me because he told me, I should have gotten off at the last stop. But he decided trying to give me directions would be too difficult, so he walked me there. He had just finished classes at UB and was actually moving to Canada in a few days to go study for 4 years to become a lab tech! Naturally this got me interested since 1. I have a brother moving to Canada and 2. My mom works in the lab. So we walked and talked all the way to the Orange store and I wished him the best of luck in Canada. Its funny though--why is that every Batswana that is genuinely interested in talking to me either lives in another village or is leaving the country? How about I meet some in my village and actually STAYING in my village...
I also must say thank you to Dara, as I received an awesome package from her. It was full of sour patch kids, iced tea packets, Dora the explorer fruit snacks (nice touch there Dira or should I say DORA), popsicle molds, razors, magazines, and pictures!! I knew I could count on my personal papparazzi to send me pictures!! :)
So one nice thing about being so close to Gabs-is that people can stay at my place if theyre trying to catch an early bus somewhere. So Ive had several volunteers from bots8 stay with me last week and this week. Its been nice having company!!
This Wednesday I'll be venturing to our Peace Corps IST (training)...a whole 5 min combi ride down to Oasis Motel (the one I lived in when I first got to site). Wed-Sunday all of our group will be there; and than there will be one more week for the DAC/CCB groups. My counterpart is supposed to be coming to a workshop, which is part of our IST next Tues+Wed. Than Thurs+Fri, those who signed up will get STEPS training. STEPS is a program that uses videos to help educate and facilate discussions about HIV/AIDS related topics. I'll explain more about this after the training.
Up Next: IST training till Sept 10th, birthday celebration in Gaborone, and hopefully getting my new kitty soon!!
I wont be going back to SOS until after IST; which will hopefully be nice, since school will be back in session, which means I'll get to volunteer at the kindergarten!
But this has definitely been a week of meeting new people!! On Monday at SOS I met 2 young guys from Sweden!! They are here taking foreign exchange nursing classes at the University of Botswana (UB) till December. And they are looking for some places to volunteer--and I didnt get to talk to them too much, but I hope I'll see them around again. Than on Wednesday, again at SOS, I briefly met 2 young guys who were mormons from the US. They had both been here for over a year and were from Idaho and Oregon. And lastly-in an attempt to make my way to the Orange (cell phone company) store at Main Mall in Gaborone--I was on a combi and a young guy asked me if I was chinese (and I was ready to brush him off and say no, Im American; like I have said to SOOO many others) but since I was kinda lost, I decided to ask him for directions. He laughed at me because he told me, I should have gotten off at the last stop. But he decided trying to give me directions would be too difficult, so he walked me there. He had just finished classes at UB and was actually moving to Canada in a few days to go study for 4 years to become a lab tech! Naturally this got me interested since 1. I have a brother moving to Canada and 2. My mom works in the lab. So we walked and talked all the way to the Orange store and I wished him the best of luck in Canada. Its funny though--why is that every Batswana that is genuinely interested in talking to me either lives in another village or is leaving the country? How about I meet some in my village and actually STAYING in my village...
I also must say thank you to Dara, as I received an awesome package from her. It was full of sour patch kids, iced tea packets, Dora the explorer fruit snacks (nice touch there Dira or should I say DORA), popsicle molds, razors, magazines, and pictures!! I knew I could count on my personal papparazzi to send me pictures!! :)
So one nice thing about being so close to Gabs-is that people can stay at my place if theyre trying to catch an early bus somewhere. So Ive had several volunteers from bots8 stay with me last week and this week. Its been nice having company!!
This Wednesday I'll be venturing to our Peace Corps IST (training)...a whole 5 min combi ride down to Oasis Motel (the one I lived in when I first got to site). Wed-Sunday all of our group will be there; and than there will be one more week for the DAC/CCB groups. My counterpart is supposed to be coming to a workshop, which is part of our IST next Tues+Wed. Than Thurs+Fri, those who signed up will get STEPS training. STEPS is a program that uses videos to help educate and facilate discussions about HIV/AIDS related topics. I'll explain more about this after the training.
Up Next: IST training till Sept 10th, birthday celebration in Gaborone, and hopefully getting my new kitty soon!!
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