Written Friday, September 28, 2012

Hello hello – another day in moz! All is well here, contrary to that last semi-depressing blog post.

My week improved greatly, on Wed I had a meeting with my one organization, we talked about the difference between stigma and discrimination (a lot of it dealing with those who have HIV/AIDS) how we can combat both, and things to do on the home visits. We also talked about future projects for the organization, specifically income-generation projects. I think they are going to try and use the blenders that we had from the festival, and make the smoothie/juice that we made there. It’ll bring in some money from the sales, and help encourage healthy living with information about moringa. Stay tuned to see how that goes. Next week, we will be having a brainstorm to discuss possible new projects as well . . I’m trying to think of some, but I don’t think I’ve been here long enough to really know what the community needs.

After the meeting on wed, we went down to the lagoon – it was perfect. Sunny sky, a slight breeze, and not a person in sight. The water was decently warm too, so I went for a swim, life was pretty darn good if you ask me. Luckily we caught a ride back up the hill – usually about an hour walk up a steep hill in loose sand – so that was just the icing on the already good cake haha. The ride was half the fun too, we were sitting on top of a mountain of coconuts in the back of a truck, having to duck every time we passed under some branches haha. It was an adventure in itself.

Yesterday, Angela and I went to our other organization, where we gave a palestra (informational speech/talk) about some medicinal plants and remedies. It was really interesting stuff. . .next month I will be doing a solo presentation about how to purify/filter water. So I’ll be doing some research about that soon. I know of two ways to do it without boiling/using a filter right now, and hope to find out more. I’m a bit nervous about flying solo, because although I feel comfortable talking in conversational settings, getting up in front of people and talking in Portuguese is a bit daunting at the moment. Hopefully in a month’s time I’ll feel a bit more comfortable.

After that palestra, we went to Angela’s house and began doing a big clean out. . .the amount of stuff she has amassed over 2 years is truly astounding to me. But in all fairness, I came to Africa with two bags, and now have two bags and two boxes of things – most of the stuff is books given to me by PC, but I have collected some things on my own time as well. I am inheriting a lot of things, which is incredibly helpful – and have started of thinking about ideas for special arrangement in the house. For example, I know I want more shelving units – I just need to figure out cost, and then ask my one org to help me build it – they have a small carpentry business there.

Today I don’t have too much going on – I’m going to help Sota get some things together for the part tomorrow (Angela’s going-away party). . . and maybe look into some good new recipes to try in the coming weeks.

Ankle is doing ok, still a bit sore, but I figure that’s normal for a sprain right?

Next weekend is the big move for me – then the weekend after that I’m going to have a visit from Peace Corps to see how everything is going, they check in about our housing situation, and the organizations during the first three months. And then two weekends after that is Reconnect. . the time seems to be flying. I was on the phone with a friend last night, and he asked how my week had gone – I stopped and realized that it was almost Friday already . . .and just laughed.

Anyway – all is well here, the sun is out, there is a nice breeze blowing through the palm trees, and I have clean hair (took a nice bucket bath this morning). . . life is pretty good today.

Have a great weekend –

t

Written Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Hello all – hope everyone’s week is off to a good start and that all is well at home.

Things are slow here, today is a holiday – the day when the rebellion started against the Portuguese colonists, so there is no work for anyone. I’m filling my time with watching Sons of Anarchy, and cooking.  (speaking of, I only have season 1. . . if someone knows a way to send more, that would be greatly appreciated).

Whats on the menu today you ask? The answer would be Feijoada (bean stew). I soaked some kidney beans overnight, and have them simmering now for about an hour or so. . I’ve sliced a bunch of veggies; onion, tomato, carrot, green pepper, and will sauté those with some garlic, and add to the simmering beans with some chili powder and a curry. Let all that simmer for about 30 more minutes and boom – dinner for the next 3 days. And the best part about this is that I don’t have to worry about refrigeration, because its all veggies. I can eat it cold tomorrow for lunch, and heat it up the next day for dinner. So yeah, that’s my day. Woopie right?

Having a down day today. . .just a lot of time on my own, feeling a bit lonely. Yesterday at the hospital was a bit of a bust. . . I went with the Peer Educators to the morning meeting, it was all in local language, so I didn’t catch onto much, and then sat in the testing room for another few hours. . .watching person after person get test positive for HIV. . . that shit gets a bit depressing after a while. So I excused myself, went for a walk in the market, and came home to read and paint my toenails.

Walked into town this morning to pick up the ingredients for the feijoada, and was stopped two different times by creepy men asking me to marry them, or why I haven’t invited them to my house yet. . . sometimes I really question this culture. Why is it ok for a total stranger to be disgusting and insanely forward? Yes, I realize that I am an ‘outsider’ with my white skin. But it’s not like I was dressed in a suggestive manner – I’m rocking a t-shirt and Columbia outdoor pants today (supppeerrrr sexy) I wasn’t even giving them any sort of attention for them to think it was ok to approach me. Ugh. I have tough skin – you have to, but sometimes it gets to me. And this was one of those times.

Its an interesting feeling – to be totally surrounded by people – and yet feel totally alone. Slightly depressing right? Haha sorry. Like I said, down day. . too much time in my own mind. I start thinking about everyone from home, friends and family that I miss – so know that you are being thought of.

I don’t miss my 12 hour work days though. . . It is nice to have some time like this, and I know that this experience will help me find my next move in life. Anyway. . I suppose that’s all for now – going to go cook up some veggies.

Sorry this was a little down in the dumps. Just needed to get it out of my mind.

X’s and O’s    - t

Written Monday, September 24, 2012

Good morning all – another week starting up here in Quissico, Mozambique. I hope everyone’s weekend went well. My little brother turned 20 this past Friday, I’m missing him very much here in Moz, and hope that he had a really great birthday.

So – the past week was sort of a blur. The travel to Inhambane City on Monday, Tuesday nursing the sprained ankle (it’s doing ok. . . still not back to full recovery) and the REDES meeting, then Wed, Thurs and Fri having the big meeting with ICAP/CCS about the Peer Educators in the hospital… in addition to all of that trying to help Angela plan for this past Saturday – we painted a mural with our REDES group, and another group from Xai Xai (about two hours south of Quissico).

The second group had already painted a mural, and our group here, has made earrings before – so we arranged a “troca” an exchange of experiences. The second group arrived around 7:30am, we did introductions of groups, talked about what we were going to do that day (split the girls into two groups, one to make earrings while the other paints) and then had a large brainstorming activity about what we wanted on the mural. After that, we had breakfast – bread with butter and jam and a banana and tea. The girls then did dances for one another- my group learned the Cha-Cha Slide and preformed that for the other, they did a great job and I was really proud of them.

While they were doing that, Emily, Dan and I (Moz 18 volunteers who were helping out) started mapping out the mural on the wall with a marker. We got a basic design down, something for the girls to paint in. The girls broke off into two groups (making sure there was a combination of different girls in each) and we started to paint!

I was really worried that it would be a mad dash for the paintbrushes, things would get messy and it would be just a huge crazy painting mess. . . I was happily proved wrong. The girls decided what colors they wanted to use for what, those with the smaller brushes went to work on the smaller designs, and those with the larger ones painted in things like words and the HIV ribbon. – I am going to try and put picutures up on facebook soon, and am trying to figure out how to attach them to my blog. . stay tuned.

I stayed with that first group until lunch, at lunch (which Angela and I had to arrange) we all went inside a classroom, and had a bean stew, a chicken curry and rice. Needless to say it was absolutely amazing. The girls seemed to really like it too- so things were good. After lunch, one of our friends, a doctor at the hospital, came to talk with the girls. We hope that she was an inspiration to the girls, many asked questions, and she explained how she did have to sacrifice some things in her life (like having a relationship) to get where she is, how she had to work hard, didn’t drink a lot, and withheld from having sex for a long time. She explained that this was very difficult, especially in a culture that prides women on having lots of children, and expects them to get married early. She was inspiring to me! I can only imagine what it was like for the girls. A lot of them asked questions, some personal, which the doctor was happy to answer. All in all – I think it was a really great idea to have her come speak.

After lunch we switched groups, and the mural was finished, and the other girls made earrings.

Everyone helped out with the cleaning, washing dishes, washing paintbrushes etc. . .The day went very smoothly, and everyone seemed to really enjoy it. Not to mention, the mural turned out absolutely amazing. I’m really proud of the girls, proud of Angela for making this happen, and feel lucky enough to have been a part of the experience.

After everyone left, and everything was cleaned up, Emily, Angela and I went for a beer, and just relaxed after a very long day.

Sunday was a morning of movies with Emily, and then an afternoon of eating leftovers, and watching season one of Sons of Anarchy on my own haha. She had to catch a chapa back around noon to get home before dark. . . traveling at night here not only is dangerous, its also really stupid.

Today I am going to head up to the hospital for the morning, and then I think I’m going to run to Inharrime to pick up my stuff from the Modista (seamstress). . . I’m seeing an evening of dinner and Sons of Anarchy here at my little house haha.

No complaints here- miss everyone from home. I really miss the comforts of old relationships from home. . .its much easier – if that makes sense. Yes I have friends here, but its hard to forge a new friendship out of a few months. . . hard to explain. My point is – I miss you all.

Xoxo

td

Written Wednesday, September 19, 2012

My mom is coming to Moz!! YAY!!!!

Just got the official confirmation last night over the phone! She is coming to visit from Dec 27^th to Jan 11^th! WOO!!!

In a sadder report, another one of my friends is ET’ing. (leaving country early). She decided PC just wasn’t for her, which is a shame. So our group has gone from 31, we had 3 people ET during training, one ET last week, and another this coming weekend. . . It makes me sad that our little “family” is falling apart. But I hope that everyone finds their own path in life, and I’m sure it’s the right decision for each. Miss you all, and am sending good thoughts your way.

My day today was lovely, aside from my silly injury, I am doing very well here. We have a big meeting this week (wed, thurs and possibly Friday) with ICAP and CCS. It is dealing primarily with the Peer Educators (my counterparts) who work in the hospital. These are people who are HIV positive, and are “role models” for those newly diagnosed, or who have questions/concerns about life with HIV. It’s a really cool idea, that helps create sustainable community involvement and development. Right now, the focus is on what these Peer Educators do/do not do. They work one day a week in the hospital, helping people with questions and giving support to those who need it, and one day is to be spent out in the campu searching for people to go get tested, or those who have abandoned their treatments – to get them to return to the hospital.

Today was especially good for me because it gave me a chance to meet everyone all at once – rather than in small spurts at the hospital. There is a different group of Peer Educators for each day of the week, so it can get a bit confusing. Starting next week, I will be spending more time there I think, as well as getting time in with the two CBO’s I am partnered with. Basically I’m about to be very very busy.

I think my favorite part of meetings here is the beginning of them. Each one starts off with a song of some kind, people are encouraged to get up and dance (I am constantly dragged up to the front of the room to dance), clap, and sing along. It’s a great way to break the ice, get people involved and engaged, and it sounds really pretty.

I came away from the meeting today with a very positive feeling. I have more information about what the Peer Educators do, where I can fit in and help, and I got to meet and really talk to a whole new group of people. The fact that I understood everything said in the meeting, and was able to carry on conversations with people makes me very happy. My language is progressing – last week I felt like it was at a stalemate, this week, I feel ok about it. Little by little it’ll get here. Hopefully by the time Mom comes to visit, I’ll be super comfortable.

Speaking of the future visit – when I told people in my organization and the peer educators that she was coming there was a lot of excitement. One man literally was jumping up and down with excitement. So Mom – just prepare yourself for lots of cheek kisses, hugs, face petting, and generally being introduced to a LOT of people. It’s going to be great, and I know you are going to love it here. (same goes for anyone who is planning to visit – if you want to come to my site).

Status of my sprained foot/ankle. . . I think its doing better, the swelling is kind of going  down, and its slowly turning black and blue. . . if the swelling doesn’t go down by Friday I’m going to call the medical office. It doesn’t hurt badly to walk, just a bit uncomfortable. I’m chalking it up as a bad sprain. Here’s hoping its nothing more than that.

No need to cook anything today – we were fed a snack (egg sandwich) and lunch (a chicken curry with rice) so I am quite full and very happy. Although my neighbor did bring over a tasty sweet(ish) treat for me. . . cant remember the name of it to save my life right now, but it has crushed peanuts, some sugar, and crushed mandioca (sort of a sweet root). Its molded into sort of a dry cake thing. I enjoy it a lot, but need to drink water when I eat it because it tends to be a bit dry.

Thank you all for the emails! Love hearing about life at home.

Things continue to be good here - have another meeting tomorrow, I’ll let you know how that goes.

Speak soon –

td

Written Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Hello everyone! I trust that the week is off to a good start?

So after a weekend of torrential downpours, no energy, hanging out with the puppy dog, and just taking it easy, yesterday was a busy enough day to make up for the two days of rest.

The plan yesterday was to get to Inhambane City to get my packages sent in the mail! I was up early to catch a chapa out of Qussico to Maxixe (about a 2.5 hour trip depending) all went well there, I switched into a different chapa in Inharrime, and made it safely to Maxixe. I met up with a friend there, and we took the ferryboat over to Inhambane City (about a 20 minute ride or so depending) – mind you there is only one large ferryboat that runs back and forth, so you either wait for that one, or you get in one of the smaller ones (which can be a bit tricky, stay tuned). So we waited for the big one, and proceeded to cross over to Inhamabne City.

Found the post office with no problem, and had a lovely hour and a half long conversation/argument with the people there. I ended up having to pay almost 2,000 Mtz to get both of my packages. The cost for postage/customs – not sure why I paid those, seeing as those who sent them, already paid for postage and everything that was 700Mtz. The cost for picking up the packages at the post office (a usual fee that everyone pays) was 170Mtz each, and then the cost for transportation to get to Inhambane City and back – round trip about 230Mtz.

I argued a good point with the customs officer there, and the lady working the post office.  . . they understood that I am a volunteer and don’t receive much money to be here. They also had no idea why my items went to Inhambane City rather than my PO Box in Inharrime. I gave them my number and told them to call if they get any answers from their boss about this. So in the meantime – either hold off on packages, or send them to the original mailing address of the Peace Corps office in Maputo. There PC will pay up to 400Mtz in the customs/postal fees. And I just need to get down to Maptuo to get them, or have someone traveling up through Moz drop them off.

I tried getting some answers from PC about all of this, and they really didn’t have any for me. Hence why I was so frustrated on Friday. It seems that this is a totally new law/regulation, to force people to pay to pick up their packages. Prior volunteers did not have to pay, and it is really quite strange.

But anyway, enough griping about the silly postal system here. I GOT PACKAGES!!! YAYYY!!!! Thank you SO SO SO SO SO much!

To my wonderful Aunties – these gifts mean the world to me, and were so thoughtful. I cant say enough how appreciative I am. Everything I could have imagined or asked for were in those two boxes, including some things I would have never thought of. I am so lucky to have such caring people in my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I tried sending post cards to each of you, so please let me know if you get them!

So after opening my packages in the post office and being so so happy (its less conspicuous to put things in a plastic bag/purse than carry around a big box) we walked around the city for a bit. My friend was looking into buying a gas tank for her stove. I will be inheriting an electric stove – that I like, but would prefer gas. But the cost of the tank/gas and transportation of said item is expensive and difficult. It’s easier to just use an electric stove and just not cook when there isn’t energy (like this entire past weekend) haha. Ahh life in Moz- gotta love it.

So for our return trip to Maxixe across the bay, we decided to travel on the one of the smaller boats. Entering the small craft, in my graceful manner (sarcasm) I tripped, and rolled my left ankle/foot. It immediately swelled up, giving me a lovely knot the size of a golfball on the top/left side of my foot, just bellow my ankle bone. Needless to say, the boat ride back sucked. I threw up over the side of the ship from the amount of pain I was in, but managed to keep the tears in. After arriving back in Maxixe, I hobbled off the boat, and with the help of my friend, made it to a small place in the market to sit/eat and rest my foot. The woman working the small stand saw my foot, and immediately gave me ice – super considerate of her – and luckily I had a Ziploc bag in my care package that I used to keep it on my foot. Needless to say, I’m in a considerable amount of pain still today, and the chapa rides home were not fun.

I found a seat in the very back corner where I wouldn’t have to get in/out and worry about people climbing over me. I got home with no problems, and went and had dinner with Angela and Sota. Again, luckily, Sota had an ice pack in his freezer/fridge thing, and I was able to ice it again – he also gave me some pain meds, and an icy hot patch. Not sure if the patch really does anything for bones/sprains, but it felt good to use overnight.

The swelling has dissipated to my entire foot, not just the golfball thing near my ankle. It’s a bit black and blue, but I can walk on it slowly without considerable pain. I’m chalking it up as a semi-severe sprain, will wrap it when I leave the house today, and try to keep off it/keep it elevated. If it doesn’t clear up by Thursday/Friday, I’ll take myself to the hospital here.

It’s always an adventure with me!

I was supposed to go out into the campu today with my one organization, but that consists of walking all day through loose sand. I decided it would be better not to do so. I am going to try and help Angela today organize things for this Saturday – we are painting a mural with our REDES group, and a group from Xai Xai. It should be a good time. I am also going to start organizing my things to pack/move. . just two weeks now. My my, where the time is going. Its going to be very strange to see Angela go. . . not sure I want to think about it at the moment.

But I have big plans for the house! I want to put in some more shelving for spices/a pantry type thing, re-arrange the rooms a bit, and am thinking of trying to have a small garden in front of the house. . .but I think that’s going to depend on the puppy dog.

Again – thank you so so so much for the packages. They had everything I could have ever wanted in them and more. It is such a great feeling to know that you all are thinking of me. Thank you.

Always-

td

Written September 15, 2012

Good morning all – I’m writing this post from Angela’s house this weekend- I’m dog sitting while she is out of town. Its nice to be in this house, especially after the day I had yesterday. During the evening I did some yoga, took a bucket bath, had a glass of wine (from a box sadly) and played with the puppy dog- who is currently trying to lick my ears. . .he has a thing for ears. He’s kinda strange like that haha. Anyway- the night turned out to be very calming, and exactly what I needed after a rough day.

I’m entitled to some tough times here, but I know that they will pass and I’ll be ok.

Today is another overcast day here in Quissico, a bit cloudy and windy with scattered showers. I was going to take Ceu (the puppy) for a run, but downpours, a busy highway and a semi-crazy dog aren’t the best combo I’ve decided. So I’m holding off on that until it clears off. I always have tomorrow too – and the next two years.

P90X has been going well – through the first week… I doubt I’ll have the “results” that most do from the program due to my diet here –lots of carbs haha. But its nice to have something physical to do everyday besides walking around town and in the campu.

Aside from writing this blog post- responding to some emails, making food and doing p90x. . . I don’t have anything to do today. And I kinda love that. Just a day hanging out with the puppy dog – and figuring out how I’m going to organize this house for when I move in. It is very small (two rooms) so I’m thinking lots of shelving. . . I also want to try and make a small hammock or hanging chair for either the front porch or inside corner. . .not sure how I would do that necessarily but I have lots of time to try and figure it out.

As for my postal issues from yesterday – I will try and go on Monday or Tuesday of this coming week, catching the early chapa out to Inhambane City, getting to the post office in the morning, maybe having lunch with a friend there, and heading back home. I have too much scheduled next week to make it into an overnight trip, and next Saturday we are doing an exchange with another REDES group – so a Friday night/weekend trip is out as well.

Ceu is passed out on the floor in the middle of the house. . . a morning of petting, licking ears, and eating breakfast has just taken it out of him. The poor guy haha. Something about having something to take care of, talk to, and give “lovin” too makes life just that much better.

As always- thank you to those who continue to send me emails. Its really nice to hear from those at home.

I’m off to respond to some emails, drink some coffee, listen to music (song of the day –Everlong by the Foo Fighters) and sit on a front porch. Life is good.

Xoxo

t

Written Friday September 14, 2012

Great news!! I have the official confirmation of packages being delivered to Mozambique!  Thank you to Aunt Sara and my “Auntie” Maria! That’s the silver lining of this cloud, the stormy interior is this – for some reason, my packages were not able to stay in the post office an hour from my site . . . instead they have been sent to Inhambane City for some reason. Still trying to work out the logistics on that one. Soooooo next week sometime I should be able to go up to Inhambane City (about 3 hours or so) to pick up the packages. I’m also trying to figure out at the moment, why I’m supposed to pay a fee to receive them. Its all a bit confusing – but the knowledge of having something waiting for me, and the fact that they got through makes me so happy!! A gigantic THANK YOU to you wonderful women!

So yes. . . my day has been a bit hectic running around, spending time in the smelly chapa’s for no reason, butttt it happens I suppose. This morning I was supposed to meet with an activistia today to take a girl to the hospital at 6am. . . I showed up at 6:15, because I know how tardy people can be here. I ended up waiting around until 7:15ish, and then threw in the towel. I received a call at 8:45 saying that she was in the line for the hospital with the girl, but at that point I had already gotten on a chapa to Inharrime. On the plus side, the girl got her consult, and medication – and the activista did it all on her own. The downside was that I couldn’t be a part of it – but I told the activistia that she can’t expect me to be available if she is going to be almost 3 hours late. I think it got the message across.

Its been a truly frustrating day for me all the way around. I know things could be much worse, but starting the day off so early with a failure, to then travel out of my way and spend unnecessary money on transportation to find another roadblock. . .  to then travel back and get harassed in my own market (something that happens on occasion – usually doesn’t bother me). I don’t know if its because its hot, because I’m disappointed, because I’m confused as to how the hell this postal system works or what. . . .UGH!

Today has just been a big culmination of issues . . . .and I’m over it.

That’s all for now.

Sorry it was an upsetting/semi-angry blog.

Written September 13, 2012

Good morning! I trust everyone has been doing well this week? Any new developments back at home I should know about?

It’s a lovely Thursday morning here, the sun is just starting to come up, and its looking like its going to be another beautiful day. I have had a great week thus far, and have another busy day ahead of me.

Monday was a bit overcast and dreary, but I made the best of it. I was supposed to go out into the campu, but the volunteer I was supposed to go with, had malaria, so that became a no-go. I walked around town, talked with some people, started a new book (Portrait of Dorian Gray) and just kinda did my own thing.

Tuesday I went out into the campu with a volunteer from my one organization – that went really well, the houses we visited were success stories of people staying on their medications, and going to the hospital when necessary. We were encouraging them to talk to their neighbors about it, their successes and failures etc. Hopefully by building a strong community base, we can get more people on the medication they need, and slowly start putting an end to HIV/AIDS. At each house I spoke for a few minutes about how it is very important to use mosquito nets, especially for small children, and especially in these upcoming months as they are both the rainy and hot season. I’m sad to report that many of the people use their mosquito nets for fishing, protecting their gardens, and other household things, simply because they think it looks “ugly” if they use it in their house. I find this odd, because if we ever go into someone’s house, you cant actually see the bedroom. . . .like I said. Strange stuff.

I spent my Tuesday afternoon organizing papers and the office of my one organization, helping them to get a bit more organized, and clear out some of the clutter. That afternoon I started the P90X regimen. . .  OUCH. But in a good way. I’m looking forward to this new workout schedule. I think it’ll be enough to keep me from getting bored – sometimes yoga just doesn’t cut it for me when I’m by myself. It has sort of a high-intensity thing that I like, being an ex-athlete, and will help me fill my time in the afternoons/evenings.

Yesterday we had our weekly meeting with my one organization, that went really well I think, and afterwards I went into Inharrime (about an hour chapa ride) to go to the modista (seamstress) and check in at the post office. . . still nothing. But I gave the woman working there a paper with my name and phone number, that way she can call if I receive anything. It has officially been a month since I was told I was sent something, so I have faith that it should be here by next week. Things have been taking  little over a month I was told. . .not sure why. But I’ve decided at times that here in Moz its best to not ask questions and just practice my patience.

Spent my evening doing P90X, and cooking dinner. I have also started watching the Star Wars series. . truly indulging my inner-nerd. It’s been a great time thus far haha.

Today I have two meetings again, one at the hospital, the other at one of my other organizations. It’s going to be another busy day by Moz standards, and I’m looking forward to it.

I received some sad news yesterday – my good friend here in Moz has decided that she wants to return home for family reasons. I am very sad to see her go, as is she – it is not an easy decision to make, but family is the most important thing, so I can understand her reasoning. She will be missed more than words can say, and I will be loosing my daily phone call friend. I wish her all the best in her endeavors, and hope that we remain in touch. Safe travels home love.

I hope everyone at home is doing well, missing you all tons – to those who have been sending me emails – thank you! It’s so nice to hear from you.

May the force be with you.

t

Written September 9, 2012

Good morning!

Another Sunday, another week has come and gone. In under 30 days I’ll be moving into my permanent house across town, and a month after that I’ll be at our reconnect conference in Maputo. Its kinda crazy to think that I’ve been gone for almost 4 months now. . since May 28^th. My my, how the time is flying.

Friday turned out to be a delightful day, the morning started a bit slow, so I decided to walk into town. I stopped in one of my favorite shops to talk with the owners, a really lovely couple who has sort of taken me under their wings. I can usually kill a few hours there talking with them about any topic. They are educated, and enjoy talking with me about politics, religion, and stuff back in America. It helps me with my language, and there is always good food involved. Which leads me back to my Friday afternoon. I went to chat around 11am, was invited to lunch around 1, so I did my errands, and came back. So happy I accepted the invitation – we had salad, brown rice, and this delicious goat-meat curry. I’m telling you the meat just fell apart in your mouth.

Most of Moz’s food doesn’t use or require a lot of spices, but this couple loves to use spices in their cooking (they are the family I spent the final night of Ramadan with). So needless to say, things are always very savory, and well prepared. We talked about all sorts of things, and I ended up spending most of the day with them. Returning back to my little house around 4pm. I spent the evening watching a movie, and drinking red wine from a box. Classy stuff I tell ya. What can I say, sometimes on a Friday night a girl just has to let loose haha.

Yesterday I had a verrrrrry interesting church experience. For any of you who remember, and for those who don’t – I have decided that a good way of integrating into my community, is to attend various church services on the weekends. This weekend was “Igreja Adventisa do Setimo Dia” - 7^th day. It was a day-long event (something that I was not told ahead of time) literally. I was at church from 8am until 5:30pm. It was much more structured than the one I attended last weekend, there was a building, benches and plastic chairs to sit on, and an “altar” of sorts. There were still issues with seating, people talking, getting up and moving, power outages, and things not functioning as planned (basic life in Moz) but overall it was a much more structured church experience.

I don’t attend church in the states, so I am unfamiliar with passages, prayers, songs/hymns etc. so listening to it all in Portuguese is a bit tricky. But I got the most of it. There were groups that preformed hymns (some better than others) passages read and then life stories told relating them to everyday life (I found that interesting), and prayers. We broke for lunch around 1:30, after witnessing two baptisms – the people being baptized were in their late teens/early twenties. That was kind of a cool experience to witness, and of course, being the only white person there, everyone made sure I could see the event.

We broke for lunch, which people had both brought in picnic baskets, and cooked at church, families ate together, and the “higher ups” ate inside the church – I walked around and had a small sampling of everything. Many of my counterparts attend this church, so I knew many people there – and of course I had to make an appearance inside the church to talk with the pastors, and important big-wigs. One had actually just traveled to California, and experienced culture-shock etc. We had a really nice conversation about the differences between life here and in the states, and he wished me the best of luck in my PC service here.

Everyone was very nice, and again, nothing was forced upon me, and I didn’t have to participate in prayers/songs etc. they all encouraged me to return sometime, and I am sure I will (simply because Saturdays I don’t have much going on) but there was never once a forceful attempt to get me to participate or return.

After lunch, everyone returned to the church, there was more beautiful singing, more passages/life stories. I was introduced to the congregation, which was nice, a bit overwhelming to stand and have an entire church say hello to you. . but I suppose it happens. It amazed me how quickly time slipped by, before I knew it it was 5pm!

Oh did I mention that it rained the entire day? Not a light drizzle, a hard thunderous downpour that caused power outages and soggy feet. Walking home in that was a lovely experience, wet sand, and skin do not mix well for a mile long walk home. I have some lovely blisters/open cuts on my feet now (don’t worry I’ve cleaned and bandaged them) that are more annoying than anything.

I came home to find some lovely puddles around my house (apparently my roof leaks) including one on my bed. Slightly unfortunate, but what are you going to do. I changed into some dry sweatpants (even though everything was kind of damp inside my house) and watched a movie with some hot chocolate. Overall, it was a long day – eventful at times, but again I think it helped me with my integration into the community, and was an unforgettable life experience.

Today the sun has finally come out, after a week of clouds and rain. I’m happy to see it, and hope that things will dry out today. I made an egg scramble for breakfast/brunch, had some coffee, and have started a new book “Napalm and Silly Putty” by George Carlin. So far, its hilarious. If anyone has suggestions about some good books to read please let me know!

Well kids, my day is going to be spent reading, maybe watching another movie, and relaxing. Looking forward to my phone call with the family tonight – I encourage you all to send emails or give me a call sometime as well!

Hope all is good and dandy in the states – GO STEELERS!

Xoxo

t

Written September 7, 2012

Posted later today I think . . .

Hey everyone! Another week here in Moz has passed by – the days seemed a bit long, but now looking back, it all seemed to go so quickly. I have less than 30 days until I move into my permanent home – unfortunately this means that Angela is also leaving in less than 30 days. Although we have been doing our own separate projects, it has been nice to have someone here to talk to, eat some meals with, and turn to for advice.

Yesterday was pretty cool, I went down to Despertai – my organization on the other side of town. Its about a 35 min walk or so just down the EN1 – and I have started to allow a bit more time to wherever I need to be, because I am constantly stopped to talk. Not complaining about that! I’m really happy that people are getting to know me, and want to stop and chat. Its tough to remember everyone’s names, but I think I’m doing ok with it. These aren’t long drawn out convo’s, just pleasantries exchanged, asking where one another is headed, and wishing them good luck with their work. Its actually quite sweet. When was the last time a semi-stranger at home said hi as you were walking along the street? Yes these people know me, and we talk – but essentially we are strangers’ haha. So that’s the type of situation I’m trying to picture happening in the states. I don’t think it translates.

So anyway, after getting through town, I made it to Despertai, were I had a lovely conversation with some of the volunteers who were there, I ended up going on a few home visits out in the campu. The woman I was with didn’t speak the best Portuguese, but she understood me when I talked, and acted as a translator for me when we went to the houses. Rather than doing the entire visit in Chopi (local language) she let me take the lead, and I took that opportunity to talk about nutrition, using a mosquito net, and making sure you get to the hospital to get your medications. People had questions for me, I showed the one family how to put up their mosquito net (the hospital did a distribution day last year) and the last family we went to – I arranged a day next week to take the one girl to the hospital.

Despertai works with OVC’s – orphans and vulnerable children. Its really difficult to put into words some of these children’s lives. Sometimes their parents die of illness/disease, sometimes the children are abandoned, either way – it’s a hard life here for children in Moz. And it becomes even harder for the caretakers as well. The last house we went to – the mother wasn’t home. We talked with the neighbor, who has been looking after her 5 children and the 3 from next door. She told us that the mother hasn’t been home for 3 days, and that even when she was coming home, it was at late hours of the night. These children were going without food, bathing, etc. the neighbor took them in, but she is a single woman as well, unemployed, and her machamba isn’t producing a lot of crops at the moment. Like I said. . .its tough here in Moz.

I offered the woman some suggestions about easy/cheap plates here that are also nutritious for children, and arranged a day next week to take one of the girls to the hospital. She has been having (what I’m assuming) some sort of ear infection, that is slowly robbing her of her hearing. I want to get her to the hospital quickly to find out what’s going on, and maybe get some medication. We cant go today, because it’s a Moz holiday, the weekend they didn’t want to go, and so we decided to go next Friday. Ugh! Its so far in the future. I’m still used to the American –get to the doctor when something is wrong asap – mentality. But I’m happy she even wants to go. Sometimes that’s the hardest battle.  . . .so until then, baby steps.

When I returned back to the organization, I met with the president, and we talked about the experiences, how the children were, and what the plan is for next week. She also told me about one of her experiences from this past week – a mother abandoned her 2 month old baby, the father doesn’t have a job and really wants nothing to do with the child, and the grandma who has been looking after the baby is afraid it may die from malnutrition. You can’t feed a 2 month old anything besides milk or formula. . . the family doesn’t have money to buy formula, and has no one to feed the baby milk. . I was at a loss for ideas. Every time we came up with one, there was a flaw. (if anyone at home has ideas, let me know). 

Its still a bit rainy/chilly here- not a fan of this weather at all for walking around town. But its peaceful to stay at home and read/watch. Yesterday I watched the rain from my front door with some hot tea for 20 minutes. . . yes, this is my life.

I suppose that’s all for now. . . don’t know what else to tell ya!

Hope everything is wonderful at home – miss you all!

xoxo

t

Written September 6, 2012

Posted soon!

Good morning all! Its about 7am here on this lovely Thursday morning – actually its not so lovely here today. For the past week its been a bit overcast, very windy, and occasionally rainy. . . think a colder rainy day at the beach. Its not unpleasant. . .its just not really great.

Needless to say, with the wind and whatnot, energy here has been a hit or miss this week. Sometimes its here, sometimes it isn’t. Even the hospital on Tuesday went without electricity. . .on days like that, there honestly isn’t much to do.

On Monday, I went to Inharrime, the next big city along the EN1 – its about an hour’s drive (depending on the chapa) and should cost about 38Mtz one way. I was fortunate enough to catch a bollea (free ride) both ways. Its just like hitchhiking – you stick your thumb out and hope for the best. Its interesting to see the type of people that stop. White south african’s are the least likely to stop, even though they have an entirely empty car – couldn’t tell ya why. And the overcrowded chapa’s are the most likely to stop, hoping to squeeze in one more person. The art of the bollea is something I am still trying to learn, there are hand signals that the driver will give, telling you that they aren’t traveling far, that the car is full, etc. Hopefully I’ll get the hang of it soon.

Anyway, I digress. Went up to Inharrime to meet the modista – seamstress – that Angela frequents, and to check out the post office. I introduced myself to the man behind the counter, and told him that I would be taking over for Angela. There was no formal documentation I needed to sign or anything. It surprised me at first, and then I remembered where I was haha. No packages had arrived yet, but I will check again either next week or the week after. Some people have had great luck with packages, my friend Jason has received all of the ones sent to him, Angela has received all but 3. Letters are super tricky to get through – no one is really sure why, and everything takes about a month to get here. Even if the US says 10-14 business days. . .that usually means 25-30 on Moz time. The post office in Inharrime is as good as any, so that’s still my best bet.

Tuesday like I said, there was no energy, and my organizations already had things going on, one was going to Maxixe for a conference, and the other no one was there. The hospital didn’t have power, and it was rainy. . . can you all guess what I did? Yep – spent the entire day in bed/around my little house. It actually kind of worked out, because I was having some stomach problems that day, so the rest was greatly appreciated. I finished another book, having now read about 20 since arriving in Moz, and started another. “The Dressmaker of Khair Khana” by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon. Its very interesting. I’m about halfway through, and recommend it to anyone looking for a good story.

So that was my Tuesday relaxing and reading. Yesterday I had our weekly meeting with my one organization – the attendance was very low for a number of reasons; the weather was still a bit crappy, there is a huge week-long event going on at one of the churches, and the weather was crappy. Haha, but some things were accomplished during the meeting, so that’s good. Next week, we are going to map out some things for me to do during Sept, and Oct and I am scheduled to go on some home visits with the volunteers. Looking forward to it! Afterwards I headed into the town to buy some stuff for lunch – I made brushetta again, its simple, cheap and quick to make.

Found a new development! They have just opened a new “internet spot” here in Quissico! For 45Mtz I can have about a ½ hour of internet – not sure how quick or how good, but I may check it out one day. I had walked into the building hoping to use their fax machine, unfortunately with the power issues we have been having, the machine was down and I was unable to send some documents into the PC office. Oh well, I’ll try again tomorrow or next week.

Today I’m heading down to my other organization to talk with some people about my month’s schedule, and just to say hi. We have set up a year calendar with them, and I’ll be interested to see how on-track we stay. This organization meets only once a month, something I really want to work on them about changing. Its hard to get a lot done, or make considerable progress when you meet one day out of the month for 4/5 hours. Stay tuned to see how that goes.

In other news – I have water today!! Yayy!! In addition to the energy issues, we have also had a lack of water here in Quissico, but today we finally got it! Looks like I get to take a bath tonight! And by “bath” I mean bucket bath – don’t be getting any fancy ideas over there haha.

Its kind of another gloomy day here – I’m hoping some of the clouds will burn off – its been chilly too! Not as cold as it was in Namaacha, but I was finally getting accustomed to the heat (even though its just going to get hotter) and now this chillyness? My oh my.

Well now that I’ve spent most of my blog talking about the weather (I really am becoming part of Moz) which is what I do with a lot of people here – I will bid you all a good day.

Hope everything is well, I’m being kept updated on the current political climate –interesting stuff, and would love updates about everyone’s personal life and families!

Miss and love ya all!

t

Written September 2, 2012

Posted later tonight … I think

Oh Sunday . . .what an interesting day here in Quissico.

Take a wild guess at what I did today (pause for thought formulation) – that’s right, I went to church! (pause for reaction)

As many of you know, my distaste- no that’s not the right word. . . I don’t not like church/religion. . I just don’t like it for me, and feel that over history, religion (while it does great good) as also done great harm to our world. It’s a catch 22. I feel that those who can put blind faith into something that they can neither see, feel, touch or smell (unless you are next to someone who forgoes deodorant) is both a bit crazy, as well as commendable. I simply have too many questions for one specific religion, and enjoy learning about them all. So with that said, as a means of my “integration” here into my town, I am planning on attending all of the various services offered here.

Quissico, while a small town on the EN1, is home to many many different religions. From Zion, to 7^th Day, to Catholic, Islamic . . .you name it, we probably have it here. Today was my first church-going experience here in Mozambique, many of my fellow volunteers went during our time in Namaacha, but I never did (mainly because my family was never around on weekends) so today I had my first taste.

I attended a service for the Zion faith, accompanied by my 11 year old neighbor (we are becoming friends, he likes to hang out and ask me questions, and I do the same thing). We walked maybe 10 minutes into the campu, not a far distance by any means, to come upon this concrete structure that looked more like a gutted-out house than anything. It was literally 4 walls of cement blocks, a tin roof, and a sand floor. There were estera’s laid out on the ground (the straw mats) to sit on, the women sat in the center, while the men sat at the front facing us.

I should take a moment to describe what I wore to church, its not proper for women to wear pants or short skirts to church, so I used a capulana wrapped around my legs as a skirt that came to my ankles, I wore a plain cowl-necked t-shirt (no cleavage) and used one of my scarves to cover my head. To be honest, I looked more like a hippie than someone going to church, but the women appreciated my capulana, and the men commented on how it was nice that I covered my head out of respect. In my mind I was thinking – “duh, if I’m going to do this church thing, I’m going to do it right.” But regardless. My outfit was a success and I was welcomed into the church.

I sat between two women I didn’t know, my 11 year old friend was in the front with the other boys/men.  We were handed two small blocks of wood, to be used as musical accompaniment during songs.

I don’t know if any of you have ever tried sitting on an uneven surface, on a straw mat, with no backrest, in a side-kneel or legs straight out position (criss-cross legs are forbidden for women here) for longer than 30 minutes. . .but its TOUGH! Now add another 3.5 hours onto that, and welcome to my morning!

Yep, if you did your math correctly, I was in a church service for 4 hours today. It was a life experience that I could never have in the states, and really I had nothing else to do today, so I just took it all in stride and tried to enjoy myself.

The singing was really cool- that’s something about this country that I’ve fallen in love with. Its sort of a call and response type of singing, but then it blends into this harmony that is so awkward its truly beautiful, and then on top of it all, there is always a contrasting voice mixed in somewhere too. With the vocal melodies, a small drum played by one of the boys, and our wooden blocks that we clapped in an odd rhythm, the music we made sounded really and truly African (there is no other word I could think to describe it).

The entire service was done in the local language, so I picked up on a few words/phrases that I hear everyday, but for the most part I had no idea what was going on. I think I prefer it that way – most of my distaste for religion in the states comes from me overanalyzing the information presented. Here, I allowed my ignorance to be bliss, and listened, clapped the wooden blocks, and just watched as the songs and prayers of the people around me were sent up to the heavens.

It was a long process, not something I want to go through again at that church anytime soon, but I think it was a great first impression of church here in Moz. People were very receptive of me showing interest in their life and beliefs, no one tried forcing me into praying, and they simply suggested I come back another time. No one tried to shove the religion down my throat, or demand that I participate, there were no fancy pews, no one in particular leading the service. . just a group of people who were together on a Sunday to share stories of hope, fear, good and evil. At least that’s what I gathered.

I also couldn’t help but think about churches around the world, at home in Dormont, we have some truly beautiful churches, and that’s only a start. Think of the ones in bigger cities in the US, and then reach your minds over to Europe, to India, to wherever you feel like it. There are houses of worship all around the world, including places that aren’t churches. Sometimes it’s a football field, a soccer pitch, a stage, a garden – wherever people go to find their peace, or feel they are connected to something greater than them. Just something I was thinking about during services today.

OMG – I almost forgot to tell you!! So there I was, sitting on the ground, in some remote, half falling-apart building, listening to hymns in a local African language – totally in my “peace corps” life – when I look over to this little baby sitting on his mom’s lap next to me . . . what is the kid wearing? (pause for serious dramatic affect)

A CHILDS STEELER JERSEY! Oh yes. . that’s right. It was a number 36 Jerome Bettis jersey. The odds? To crazy to even think about.

All I have to say is STEELER NATION is literally in every corner of the world. I’m proud to be from Pittsburgh, and look forward to updates about our hometown boys.

With that wild bit of information – I bid you all goodnight.

t

Written September 1, 2012

Posted later today or tomorrow.

Happy September everyone! I hope that Labor Day weekend finds everyone enjoying an extra day off, some final summer bbq’s, time with family and friends, and of course some good drinks!

This weekend is hardly anything spectacular for me, its my first weekend at site that I really have nothing to do. No festivals to plan for, no festival going on. . just me, my book, some instant coffee, and a sunrise. I may head down to the lagoon today, I may just wander through town checking out the capulana’s and clothes, I may spend the afternoon cooking (I found some really interesting looking vegetable, kind of looks like an unripe eggplant. . stay tuned). Who knows what my day has in store! I’m sure the excitement of having nothing planned will get old by 2pm, but at the same time, I’m not complaining. In comparison to my life in the states before I left, working 12 hour days on a Saturday. . .this life is OK by me haha.

So yesterday, despite my somewhat down-in-the-dumps blog I wrote in the morning turned out to be pretty cool! I met up with one of the Volunteers from my organization here at ACUMUZA, and we went down into the campu to talk with a men’s “soccer team” for lack of better words. We met on the soccer field, having brought with us a ball, and we let them play for a bit, I joined in of course, and they were so surprised that a woman could hold her own on the soccer pitch – the field of course being a huge sand pit. Apparently women here don’t play sports, or at least not in small cities/towns like this one. As the ‘men’ put it, women are too delicate to play sports. . . I took that opportunity to jump on a feminist soapbox, and point out that women here not only cook, clean, tend to the machamba (farm/garden) and cart heavy tubs of water on their heads, they do all of this with a 30lb child strapped to their back. From my experience thus far, the most men do is drink. Girl power! I know I’ve said this before, but my hat goes off to the women here, they deal with so much, and do it all with a poise and grace I will never have.

So anyway, off my soapbox, lets get back to my day. We walked probably for an hour or so to the field, met with the guys, played a bit of soccer, and then afterward we had a small information session/speech about some issues that face men/families in the country. Most of the session was about sexual health, protecting against STDs and HIV/AIDS, but other topics were discussed as well – for example, a 15 year old, having to be the head of his household because either his parents have died, or left. How does he provide food for his 3 other siblings, where do they live etc. . it was (from what I could tell) a great discussion – it was done in the local language, so I had difficulty understanding it. But there was a lot of involvement, discussion, and the volunteer I was with had great control over the situation, guiding the discussion and interjecting with positive information and feedback. At the end of everything we passed out condoms, and had them fill out papers with their names/ages to come get tested at the hospital. All in all, I thought it was a successful venture into the campu.

After our palestra (word for information session/speech) we walked 20 minutes or so to the edge of the lagoon to a machamba (garden) to get some veggies for lunch. After, we walked to the volunteers house, had lunch and tea and hung out with her family for a bit. I think this is the part of my integration experience/life here that I like the most. Spending time with my counterparts, their families, just sitting on a grass mat in the shade, talking about their life, and my life. Doing all of this of course with a baby on your lap. There is an endless supply of children here, its truly quite impressive haha.

All in all, my day went from 8am until about 4pm when I returned home. I was hot, sweaty and utterly exhausted from walking around in loose sand all day. I took a cold bucket bath, fixed myself a PB&J with some crystal light (those packets have been a lifesaver –send some more!) and had an impromptu movie night with myself. I watched RENT, an ironic choice of movie I know – here I am working as a health volunteer promoting safe sex, the battle against AIDS – and watching a movie that touches on the history of the disease in the US. Either way, it was a nice night with myself.

I got some really great emails from people at home – cant tell you enough how great it is to hear from you all. I’m going to try to put some more pictures up on facebook soon, just day to day ones from life here in Moz.

Anyway – I’ll keep you posted about how my weekend with no plans goes!

X’s and O’s to all

t

Written August 31, 2012

Posted sometime this weekend.

Happy last day of August everyone! Does anyone have fun plans for this weekend coming up? Soccer tournaments? Picnics? Mini-vacations? Do tell!

I can’t believe its almost September already. . . it feels like just yesterday I was hugging everyone goodbye, and watching Tara and my mom drive away from Philly. Madness. The even crazier part is that I still have 22 months of this . . yikes. I’ve decided not to think in terms of “years” because that sounds scary as shit to me, but instead “months” or “weeks” that way, this adventure (while amazing) doesn’t sound so daunting. At this point, seeing as there are 52 weeks in a year, I’d say I have maybe 100 left. That doesn’t sound so bad, considering I have most of September planned out, and early November we have our 3 month Reconnect conference.

I’m definitely still in the ‘settling in’ phase here at site, and while this week went well, I will need more of them to really and truly feel comfortable here. I like my site, like my organizations – so those aren’t issues. . .its just getting my mind around the other things like; being away from friends and family for so long (especially around the holidays) constantly being the center of attention simply because of my skin color, feeling a bit disconnected from life at home – let’s face it, I live in a bubble here, my age will change, and yes I’ll have life experience I could never have in the states, but really my life isn’t moving forward, while others are. Its going to be interesting to come back 25 years old, and figure out my life from there haha. Stay tuned.

Ok - enough of the depressing stuff. . .sorry about that, just needed to get some thoughts out of my head.

So lets talk about this week! It hasn’t been anything too incredibly crazy or whatever, just trying to get into some semi-normal routine here, wake up do some yoga, drink coffee (instant, ugh) and then go off to whatever I have “planned” for the day. Monday I cleaned all day, Tuesday I had a meeting with Angela and her young group of girls (REDES) its sort of like a women’s/teenager empowerment group, I like the sound of it, but will need more time before I want to take it over. Luckily there is a great counterpart who has her stuff together and could easily run the group. I want my language skills to improve first before I’m giving any sort of life advice or whatever. I had my weekly meeting on Wednesday with my one organization – they asked me for some ideas about doing new projects, so I think I may do a Community Needs Assessment with them.  They are already out in the community, but I think the idea of going back out, talking with people etc, we can get a good idea of the next type of community development project. That way the information and needs of the community are taken into consideration, and its not just a plan thrust upon someone. Am I making sense? I could have probably worded that a bit more eloquently. . . oh well.

Yesterday I went down to my other organization and hung out there for a bit, just chatting with people, getting to know them (they only meet once a month) but do home visits every week, so I’m going to try and get in with them on some of the home visits. Today is Friday, and I am joining one of my counterparts out in the campu to see her deliver palestras and other information to people and children. Looking forward to this and I’ll let you all know how it goes.

This weekend, I will be hanging out here at site, will probably go down to the lagoon on Saturday just to have an escape, take a long walk, and just chill out. Its kind of hard to do that here at my house, because people are constantly walking into my house – not kidding. I’ll be cooking at night with the door closed and people (without knocking) will just walk in. Yes these are people I know, but it’s the principle of the matter. I’ve tried to explain that I’d prefer them to knock, but the message isn’t going through. So I constantly am having to lock my door if I want any sort of down time. Really looking forward to moving into my real house in October, there is a porch, and a fence. Meaning I can sit outside and enjoy the sun/shade without the worry of people looking at me, or wanting to talk to me haha. Selfish? Yes. Necessary for my mental health? Hell yes.

I’m working with my one organization this coming week to arrange a ledger/tablet type thing to keep track of how many chickens are sold during the day/week. They have a great income generation project of raising chickens to sell, buttttt they don’t actually keep track of how many they sell in a day, how many die, how much food costs etc. They have all the bank slips for deposits and expenses yes, but nothing documenting profits, losses etc. I’d eventually like to get them set up with a powerpoint program, seeing as they do have a computer (which at the moment isn’t functioning) but I think starting with a notebook first is a smart move. Give us some time to get used to documenting the information, then transferring it into a computer program, once the computers are fixed – another story for another day. Baby steps. Baby steps.

So yeah. . .thats my life these days. Thrilling right? Haha I’ve been doing some cooking – made a good soup the other night, some bruschetta, a good egg scramble – tonight I’m going to try my hand at a Moz style boca burger. Stay tuned.

Missing everyone at home. Love the emails – keep them comging!

Lets talk visits! Who wants to come? When? I have all kinds of “Lonely Planet” books that I’m about to dive into. . gimme something to look forward to!

Xoxo

t