Written June 13, 2012 . . .posted- your guess is as good as mine.

Well here we are again. . . another long day of pre-service training. .

Today was HUB day, a time when all of the volunteers congregate at the “hub” a house/library/conference room type-thing, Moz style.  It also has a lovely yard/outdoor space where we usually eat lunch, and oftentimes put on small skits and whatnot.

So today’s first topic was about situations that may arise in our service here in Moz. Often times we will run through various scenarios just to bring some awareness to various possibilities that we may face here. Today focused a lot on people asking for money or to borrow things, or how to handle responding to more personal questions. People here can be very invasive about you and your life, how much money you make etc, simply because its in their nature, and they are curious about you as someone who is ‘different’. It was nice to run through some of these scenarios, as I’m sure they will be helpful throughout our 24 months here.

The second topic of the day was sexual assault- things to be aware of, things to look out for, and just an overall word of caution. We discussed the differences between what American men and women do when they want sex/when they do not, and what men and women in Moz do. It was a great laugh as none of us are really mature haha, but at the same time very informative and again, helpful for the upcoming two years. We also discussed the heavier subjects of rape, sexual assault and possible violence, a bit scary, but nevertheless, helpful.

Then lunch break, where I had “carne de vaca” and some rice, with an orange. Yum yum yum. We sit outside in the sun (an attempt to warm up) while we eat, and it is a really nice time. I had a chance to delve into the book “the fever” a bit more, finding it to be truly fascinating. Perhaps this adventure and my experiences will lead me into a health related career. . . .hmmm. The possibilities are truly endless. (as an American, I know I can actually say that)

Enough about school. It’s a long tiresome day, and writing about it is making my eyes droop even further – did I mention its 8pm here and I’m just about ready for bed? Pathetic.

My language with my family seems to be coming along, the daily test for me is dinner time, how well I can communicate with them about my day, asking about theirs, talking about tomorrow, all while smiling and chowing down on the delicious nummies. Tonight it was xima (grits for lack of better description) peixe in a sort of peanut sauce (fish) and a ‘salad’ of tomato, cucumber and onion with some lemon juice. No complaints here about the food. And to date, no GI problems with my barriga (belly). Here’s hoping that luck continues.

So as I sit here in my chilly room – no insulation, concrete walls and floor with a screen window haha – staring at a dead cockroach in the corner (mental note- sweep tomorrow) I’m truly satisfied with another day here in beautiful Moz.

I had my moments today of feeling low and disconnected from what this whole thing is about, which I tend to feel at least once a day, but I have yet to go to bed truly upset about being here. I hope I never do. Coming home to this family, while it can be a bit overwhelming because of the amount of people here, the small children (there are two under the age of 3) and the lack of anything truly familiar, is still the best blessing in disguise. Love, compassion, and family translate over all languages. Its incredible that these perfect strangers have taken me in, fed me, given me a place to sleep, and make sure that I take at least one bath a day. In America, would we ever find something quite like this, without expecting anything in return?

They are giving me an insight into what it is like to live, breathe, and eat I this country. Something I could never truly gain if I was immediately on my own. My family is very smart, witty, caring, great cooks, etc. The list goes on. My only frustration is that I cant truly communicate with them just how happy I am to be here.

Tomorrow is another day though.

Oh! Side note- I had an avocado today from the tree that grows in my backyard. Be jealous.

Later dolls-

td