The Road Less Traveled

Lesson Learned: Sometimes Things Don't Always Work Out As You Hoped They Would, And That's OK

2009-09-26T03:06:00.002-04:00

I made the decision on Sunday, September 20, 2009, thought about it on Monday and worked up the courage to tell our training manager Linda on Tuesday morning after our regular assembly of announcements and song. After almost six weeks of Peace Corps training, I’m coming home. Sometimes things don’t work out the way you thought they would and if anything has taught me that that’s OK, this experience has. I have been applying, packing and talking about the Peace Corps since June 2008 and couldn’t wait to leave back in August. I was hardly nervous and never ambivalent about my decision to leave the comforts of home and give Peace Corps my all. Maybe because there was so much unknown ahead of me that I didn’t have much to be unsure about was what made it a little easier. So for the first time in my life, I put my faith in the “unknown” and it led me across the pond to begin training as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

I won’t recreate my time during the training as it’s mostly all chronicled in this blog and emails to friends and family; but I will say that no matter how prepared you might think you are, or how much you have read about the PC experience – NOTHING prepares you, nothing can. The constant emotional roller coaster that I personally experienced during my time in Namibia with very little sleep was too much for me to bear. My “highs” were extremely high and my “lows” were very low and going from one to another was exhausting both physically and mentally. So, after careful consideration and a variety of culminating circumstances during my time here I made the decision to officially resign from my Peace Corps training and return to the good ole’ USA. I’m surprisingly very comfortable with my decision which means I made the right one. Before I left on this journey I didn’t think my pride would allow me to quit – but having been here for a little while I realize that I’m not quitting. I tried something new and it didn’t work out – but the main point is I TRIED. I’m just proud of myself for trying because thousands of people never even get this far.

I spent the last four days in Windhoek undergoing a thorough medical evaluation to ensure I was healthy enough to reenter the states. I had my teeth cleaned at the dentist, three vials of blood drawn for various tests, two exit interviews and a physical at a local doctor’s office where my doctor was dressed in complete safari gear. I was finally cleared to leave on Friday, flew out of Windhoek at 9pm last night and nine hours later I’m on a layover in Frankfurt, Germany. In about an hour I will board another nine hour flight to Atlanta and then back to the Bluegrass. I have mixed emotions about returning home, but in the end I know it’s the right decision.
Thank you so much to everyone who supported me during this crazy journey. I certainly couldn’t have done it without you. To those of you who posted comments on the blog, sent me emails, wrote me letters, mailed me packages, called or texted – words can’t describe how much it meant to me.

Finally, a parting note to my fellow trainees in Peace Corps Group 30 (aka The Dirty Thirty):

Thank you so much. People on the outside might wonder how you can possibly make such great friends in such a short amount of time, but as we all know it’s absolutely possible. Having worked in campaigns for several years I’ve always said that you make the best of friends while working in the trenches and I’ve found this applies to Peace Corps as well. Good luck Group 30! I know each and every one of you will make a wonderful impact on the communities you will begin serving in October. I’ll be thinking about you all on October 16th as you swear in as official PCVs. Just remember that no matter what situation you are faced with - keep your heads up, smiles on, and exude confidence even when you’re unsure. I can’t wait to follow your blogs and send you mail! Thank you again for your friendship, shoulders to cry on and the ever present venting sessions while walking to Spar. Enjoy the rest of your time in Namibia and may you all be safe and healthy during the next two years. Best of luck!

Site Visit

2009-09-21T07:19:00.003-04:00

There are many things to report to you from my one week at site so in an effort to convey my experiences so they make some sort of sense – I’ll break it up. Hope it makes sense!

* My Site and Assignment - I have just returned from my one week visit at the permanent site assigned to me on September 8th. My site is located in a small rural village just outside of Okakarara (in case you wanted to glance at a map of Namibia) about 2 hours north of Okahandja. The name of the village is Ongombombonde and it is home to approximately 2,000 people, 1,000 of whom are children. My village is about 7km away from the nearest town with a bank, post office and a convenient type store for basic groceries. For anything else, I would have to travel 110km to the nearest city, Otjiwarango. The village schools in this area are Waterberg Primary & Secondary Schools. I am assigned to Waterberg Primary to teach fifth grade English and sixth and seventh grade BIS (Basic Information Science), which basically means I will be teaching the kids the basics of how to use a library and computers. Don’t worry, I haven’t been assigned to teach these kids how to build a network – just the basics as in “this is a mouse” “this is how to open and save a file in Microsoft Word.” The school just received a donation of 20 refurbished computers from a German charity and there are rumors that the internet is not far behind. Teaching HIV/AIDS awareness to the children is also a project I have been assigned, however I’m not certain how I am to go about it just yet. More to learn on that over the next few months.

*Hostel Living – This is a new concept that I was not prepared for. I guess the brief explanation we received from PC staff just wasn’t enough for me to formulate a true picture in my mind of what this exactly meant. There are approximately 500 primary school students (grade 1-7) and of those, a little over 400 live in a hostel on the school grounds. For most of the students, their families live too far away to walk back and forth to school every day so they live at the school in the hostel. The children live in accommodations that I can only equate to something a smidge nicer than what I would envision a concentration camp to be like. The concrete rooms house up to eight children and they all share a communal bathroom (separate for boys and girls). While there are metal bed frames provided in each of the rooms the children are responsible for their own mattress – many of which do not own one. This leaves many children to sleep on the metal lattice frame of the bed with only a small blanket. Some simply slept on the floor – sadly more comfortable than the metal frame. The children are woken up at 5:30am every morning, then they are fed breakfast in the dining hall before school begins at 7am. School ends at 1pm when the kids report to lunch and then they are just able to play, wander around the village, etc. There are supervisory teachers that rotate duty but in my opinion the kids were completely without supervision when they weren’t in class or eating. The teacher will bang on the metal tub to ring the kids in for dinner around 6pm and then the children seem to wander into their bedrooms for some rest around 8:30 or 9pm. The children only go home one weekend per month to see their families, other than that – they are living at the hostel 24/7 with no organized activities outside of the school day.

*Welcome Ceremony – Monday morning was my first day of school at Waterberg. I started the day at the daily 6:40am staff meeting where I was introduced to all of the teachers and welcomed by the HOD (Head of Department). Following the meeting, we walked to the Monday morning school assembly which I soon found out had turned into a welcoming ceremony for me. The children were all lined up and singing traditional Otjiherero songs. Some children held up homemade pictures of the US and Namibian flags while others had made signs saying “Welcome to Waterberg Primary Miss Amy.” I was introduced to the entire student body and then was treated to more dancing and welcome songs. Then I was asked to address the students, which I did surprisingly at ease. For the rest of the week, I shadowed the current PCV at Waterberg who will be leaving in December.

*My Housing at Site – The PC has started a new version of training with our group. This means that in addition to living with the host family I have been living with for over a month now, when I move to my permanent site in Ongombombonde I will again live with a new host family from October-December (including Christmas). From what I can gather, finding a home in my village that met PC safety and security requirements was a bit of a task given that most are tin shacks. I did get a chance to meet my house family, albeit briefly, and see the home. Without running the risk of offending anyone, I’ll just leave it as it was an extremely uncomfortable and bizarre experience and cannot imagine living there. My gut feeling just tells me something is off. However, after December I get to move into a private one bedroom flat with a private kitchen and bathroom, which is actually quite livable. The only kicker is, the flat is located on the school premises about 50 yards from the kids dining hall and 100 yards from the kids hostel, meaning I can hear the kids all of the time, and they are always around. You can’t step out the front door without kids being all around and they were constantly knocking on the door or stopping by to visit. So, very little privacy and alone time. I’m just not sure living and working at the same place is a healthy option for me. We’ll see. I just have to figure out how to make it through the homestay requirement first.

*Hiking back to Okahandja – I’m proud to say I safely made it back to Okahandja! As part of our training, we were tasked with finding our own way back to our training town. For many this involved trains and several car changes, so I found myself pretty lucky to be sharing a car with another PC trainee and two local women for my two hour ride that only cost me about $14 US. Five of us crammed into a car the size of a VW bug with no air-conditioning wasn’t ideal but I arrived safely so that’s all that mattered. This way of transportation is going to take some getting used to. Essentially there are very few “registered” taxis or combies (bus). Gypsy cabs (which basically mean anyone who owns a car and wants to charge you to take you somewhere but is not registered) are everywhere and are discouraged by the PC but really the only way to get from a village to a major town. Hiking is something I would NEVER do in the United States but it seems to be the only way to get out of the village or nearest town. I’m just not totally comfortable with the safety aspect of it yet, but seasoned PCVs say it becomes normal after you’ve done it a few times and you just have to be smart about it.

*Sleep – I’m beginning to think that the mefloquine malaria medicine is starting to take a toll on my body. The vivid dreams I can handle (although many of them are about being at home and when I wake up in Okahandja it can be a bit sad), but one side-effect is insomnia which I think I’m suffering from a little bit. I’m always exhausted but I can rarely sleep a few hours without waking up. It’s become quite normal for me to go to bed at 9:30pm and wake up at 12am, 1:30am, 4:00am, and 6:00am – which then I just lay awake in bed until I have to get up at 7am. My first few weeks in Namibia I was sleeping like a baby, but now I can barely muster up 4 hours of sleep in a row.

That about brings you up to speed I think. For now I’m back in Okahandja for more training until mid-October. We have a language test this Friday to ascertain our level of conversation skills thus far and will be debriefing from our site visits. Overall, I had a pretty decent site visit and am excited to hear the stories of the other trainees. I’d be lying if I told you everything was great and I didn’t have any concerns or doubts, but those are just some things I need to think through this week and figure out if I can really handle it.

**PS – To those of you who have asked about sending mail and packages from this point forward let’s just hold on these items for now. Mail is taking a little longer than expected (3-4 weeks) and in that time I could be at a different location. So hold those letters and packages until further notice and most of all, THANK YOU for sending anything!!

Cultural Cooking Day - Saturday, September 5th

2009-09-08T07:41:00.002-04:00

Saturday was cultural cooking day for our training. All of the trainees, trainers and host families came together and cooked traditional Namibian dishes from different areas of the country. Our Otjiherero group made homemade bread cooked in a pot in a hole in the ground and cooked all the parts of a sheep, including the head! I took part and scraped the charred hair of the sheep off of the head and a hoof – I think. Other groups cooked traditional fish and beef dishes, porridge, breads, stews and fresh chicken. We watched (and some trainees helped) as they took the live chickens out of the box, held them still over a large brick and cut their heads right off. Their feathers were then plucked and then they were cooked up for us to eat. Freshest chicken I’ve ever had – but definitely not for the faint of heart. My favorite dish was the “fatcakes” – think funnel cakes without the powdered sugar. Yum!! Enjoy the pics!

*Note – the traditional dress of the women that you see in most of the pictures of the ladies with the hats that look to be like cattle horns are that of the Otjiherero women. The Otjiherero culture is largely based around cattle farming, which explains the traditional hats for the women.

Trip to Windhoek - September 5th

2009-09-08T07:40:00.000-04:00

Go Cats!! I’m there in spirit! The past two days have been pretty busy with some early mornings. It’s finally the weekend so I have a little time to rest before training starts up again on Monday. On Friday, we were able to get out of Okahandja for the day and go to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. About ¼ of the population of the country lives in Windhoek (appx. 500,000) so it was a bustling city filled with a westernized restaurants and shops. We started the day with a visit to the American Cultural Center where a cardboard cutout of Obama greeted us and there we received a presentation on the dangers and prevalence of malaria right after I got another Hep A vaccine. We left there mid-morning to go visit the Peace Corps office where I received my first mail from the states!!! Two packages to be exact – one from Mom & Dad and one from Teen. Yay!!! Who knew a two-week old US Weekly could be such a hot commodity around here. I loved all of the goodies – thank you!!

Following a brief tour of the PC office, we broke into our regional groups and set out to see where we will “hike” from in Windhoek to get to our permanent site (which we don’t know yet, but will find out this week – all I know is that I will be in the Otjozonjupa region north of Windhoek). Needless to say this was an experience all to itself and I’m certain I cannot put into words what this was like. Our “hike point” in Windhoek is at the SWAPO (South Western Africa Political Organization) headquarters. Our bus pulled up to drop us off and it was an immediate attraction to those living around the SWAPO HQ in tents. Come to find out, these people are basically living there in protest and have been for years. They are called “children of the liberation” which means many of them are orphans who lost their parents because they were killed while fighting for Namibian independence. Many of them have set up permanent camp at these offices trying to obtain reparations from the government. Very sad scene. So on to the hike point – this is just a small area where cars for hire wait for people like me and others to come when we need rides out of the city to a specific area of the country. Taxis are too expensive to go far routes and the cars for hire are the suggested mode of transport for us. Basically – if you own a car, you can make a living out of this work. Not sure how this will all go once I have to do this by myself but it’s a tried and true method used by current PCVs so we’ll give it a whirl otherwise I’ll never get to leave my site.

After visiting the hike point we took taxis to something a bit familiar to home – the mall!!! Our main objective was to purchase cell phones – check, and eat some good food – check! My parents have my cell phone number so if you’d like to call me (incoming calls and texts to me are FREE but it is too expensive to call home unless it’s necessary) give my parents a call or send them an email to get the number. I would love to call and text everyone but keep in mind we’re being paid based on the typical lifestyle of the Namibian family (currently we’re being paid about $2.67 US per day). Starting on Sunday, September 6th we’ll be 6 hours ahead of the US. The food was great – cheeseburger, fries, coca-cola light and a chocolate milkshake! Amazing what a cell phone and western style food can do for moral around here. Cheers!

Host Family Pics in Okahandja - The Kamayovas

2009-09-03T08:26:00.002-04:00

Ujama and Junior

Front of the house

the whole family - notice the hat i gave Gerhard!

Our backyard

Menthos (8), Junior (2), Ujama (7)

Tjike?!?!

2009-09-03T08:24:00.000-04:00

Written on September 1st

Tjike?!! (How are you?) Things are going OK here in Namibia. The Peace Corps does everything they can to prepare you for the ups and downs that we will all experience during this service, but honestly nothing can really prepare you. I’ve definitely had some ups and downs lately but am trying to just take it one day at a time and focus on the small victories like being able to say my name in Otjiherero (Owami Amy) or finally understanding what my host brothers and sister are asking me (still working on this one). But let me just say, this is hard. Learning a completely new language that isn’t based off of anything you’ve ever learned before in your life is a bit intimidating and quite frustrating at times. French actually seems easy to me now. Otjiherero is another story all to itself. Add moving in with a Namibian family that you don’t know at all and you’ve got yourself one constantly awkward situation.

We endure four hours of language training every morning starting at 8:15 and if you let this get you down it can impact your entire day – so it went on Monday for me. A bit of homesickness, frustration with the language and reading emails from home left me sobbing like a loony person at the internet café in front of my computer. But I had a good night with my host family, got a good night’s rest and today was much better.
Now that I have moved in with my host family – The Kamajovas – I have a bit of a different schedule than before when all of the trainees were living together dorm style. Here’s what a typical day looks like for now:

7:00am – Alarm goes off and almost simultaneously Menthos (brother, 8) knocks on my door to wake me up. Get ready for training.
7:20am – Eat a bowl of cornflakes with the kids.
7:30am – Menthos and Ujama (sister, 7) walk me half way to the training center.
7:50am – I arrive at the training center to meet all of the other trainees to begin our day.
8:00am – Announcements/Assembly/National Anthems (I’m a pro at the Namibian National Anthem now – small victory to celebrate)
8:15am – Language Class
10:30am – Break time
11:00-1:00pm – Language Class continues
1:00-2:30pm – Lunch/walk to town/internet café/post office/Spar (the local grocery store)
2:30pm – 4:00 – Medical/Cultural/Technical Training
4:00pm – Break
4:30-5:30pm – More Medical/Cultural/Technical Training
5:30pm or 6pm – Walk home
6:00pm – Study, hang out with the family
7:00pm – Dinner (in front of the TV, usually watching Lorenzo’s Wife, a soap opera)
8:00pm – Watch the local news
8:30pm – Take a bath, get ready for bed
9:00pm – Read, journal, study
9:30pm – Lights out. I’m tired.

A few more things to share…..

Food
Now that I am living with the Kamajovas I am being exposed to more typical Namibian dishes, specifically from the Otjiherero culture since that’s the language I’m learning and that is the Kamayova’s culture. For the most part, I have enjoyed everything. Meat and porridge is a big part of their diet. Their porridge is very similar to our grits without any taste. It is very inexpensive here and is very filling so it’s included in a lot of meals. If we don’t have porridge, we’ll have macaroni or rice. Last night we had spinach over porridge and tonight we had fish mixed with white beans in a red sauce served over rice. For lunch, I introduced them to the good ole American style PB&J. It’s easy to pack to training everyday and never spoils which is essential since we don’t have a refrigerator (we only have a freezer – so everything including the milk goes in the freezer). The first day she made me a PB&J she actually included butter on the bread as well which made for an especially fatty sandwich but it was fine. They put butter on EVERYTHING here. And not the lowfat low salt kind either. Everything is full fat, full cream. I’ve since made sure that butter doesn’t go on those sandwiches anymore. So as far as my lunches go during the week, usually a PB&J or tomato and cheese sandwich coupled with an apple and a few lemon crème cookies.

Big Brother Africa
I thought some of you might think this was funny. On September 7th Big Brother Africa returns to the TV here. Apparently this will be season 4. It’s almost exactly like the one in the States, but here they chose 14 people from 14 different African countries (Namibia being one of them) to participate. Everyone here is really excited so I’m sure I’ll get a chance to watch at home.

Michael Jackson, KFC, and the E! Network
On the first night I moved in with the Kamajovas several things happened that made me question whether or not I really was in Namibia.

1. First question from a visiting family member – “So what do you think about Michael Jackson? Do you think that doctor killed him?” These people LOVE their MJ and since I’ve been here I’ve watched the E! True Hollywood Story and the “Man in the Mirror” movie. They just can’t get enough.

2. As my host “mom” Karii (who I now call Sister, because we realized we are the same age) was showing me around the kitchen, she opened up the cabinet where the cups and mugs live and what stared at me – three KFC coffee mugs. Her sister was also wearing a KFC polo shirt. Congratulations Yum! Brands – you’ve made it in Namibia and it made me feel right at home.

3. So my host family rocks and they have Dish tv which means they get A LOT of channels – and one of them is E! network. Yay! I don’t watch it a lot because I’m so busy – but it does come in handy when I need a dose of home. Never in a million years did I think I would be watching “Kendra” on a lazy Sunday afternoon in Namibia.

Washing My Clothes
Well, it happened. And the back of my wrists were sore the next day but I have clean clothes! In case you ever find yourself without a washing machine or a laundry mat here’s how you can survive:
Fill a large basin with water from the hose outside.
Dump in laundry detergent – apparently you can never have enough.
Wash your “whites” first.
Take the fabric, pull it tight between your hands with your fingers in a fist towards the sky. Rub your fabric over the lower part of your wrist and knuckles until they are red and raw. Repeat with the rest of your clothes. (Karii laughed at me most of the way through, telling me I wasn’t doing it right. At least my clothes smell good)
Fill another basin with water and add fabric softener.
Take the clean clothes, wring out and place in the second basin.
Let them soak, wring out and hang ‘em up on the line to dry in the Namibian sun for everyone to see.

I guess that about sums up what’s been going on here. On Friday, we’ll go to Windhoek (the capital) for a tour and visit the Peace Corps Office. It will be nice to get out of Okahandja for a bit. On Saturday, all of the trainees and our host families will get together for a Namibian cooking extravaganza. Each language group and their families will be cooking dishes native to their culture. Will be sure to write and share some pictures from that event when I can!

It Just Got Real

2009-08-27T08:10:00.000-04:00

It just got real. Last night, we had an informational session with trainees and host families all together. This was the first time meeting the families that will host us for the next 8 weeks. I think I scored! I have a host mother (Evelyne), host father (Gerhard) and three host siblings Usama (girl, 7yrs), Menthos (boy, 8) and Junior (boy, 2). I only got to meet my mother tonight but she was awesome. In the fifteen minutes we spoke I learned that she has her own business and works out of the home. From what I can gather she wholesales beauty and hair products and some clothing from South Africa to stores in Namibia. My father works for DeBeers diamonds if I heard her correctly! I will have my own bedroom and bathroom at their house and will walk about 25 minutes to the training center every morning. I will eat breakfast with the family; my mother will pack my lunch and then I will return home in the evenings to eat dinner with the family. She seems very laid back and eager to please. This is their first time hosting a volunteer so they are really excited. And – they have a dog!!!! A “fluffy” one to be exact so that should be fun. The homestay is part of the cultural exchange during our training. During the homestay, our family is responsible for teaching us basic lifeskills for Namibian life, such as: cooking (we have to learn how to cook a minimum of 4 Namibian dishes, bake bread and make fat cakes), how to wash clothes by hand, practice our language skills, and how to light a gas stove and a paraffin lantern. My mother told me that we will watch the news every night so I can hear the language and learn about what’s going on in Namibia, and then we might watch a “soapie” together – Namibian soap operas!

I will admit walking into the room filled with the Namibian families was a bit scary tonight. We have been confined in our bubble of training here at the center for the last week and now we have to leave our roommates and move into a house with people we don’t know at all and from a completely difference culture. Our hands were sweating and stomachs filled with butterflies until our host mothers hugged us like their long lost children. Now we are all excited for the next part of this training! While still a little weirded out about moving into their home, it’s nice to know I am being welcomed with open arms. Once I have pictures of my host family I will be sure to post them!

Typical Day So Far....

2009-08-27T08:09:00.000-04:00

Well training continues and I received which language I’m going to try to learn over the next two years – Otjiherero! It is spoken pretty widely in Namibia – mostly in the central region from coast to coast and in the northwest corner. For language lessons, they split us up into very small groups which are very helpful – my group only has 3 in it. My teacher is Joko and he has been a teacher for the past 20 years in Namibia. We meet for about 3 ½ to 4 hours per day outside for our lessons. It’s proving to be difficult already but it’s only day 2 of language instruction so there is a long road to go. For instance, the letters and sounds of C, X, L, Q, and F simply do not exist in Otjiherero and the S and Z are spoken as if you would say the word “the” with a lisp. Best way to describe it. Other people here are learning Afrikaans, Oshingdongo, Silozi and a few others.
I thought you might be wondering what we are actually doing during the day for our training. We cover many different subjects to ensure we are ready to live with a host family and eventually live at our permanent site on our own. So for the next 8 weeks we will be in a very intense PST (Pre-Service Training) six days a week.

Here’s what a typical day is like for me:
7:00am – Wake Up
7:00-8:00am - Breakfast
8:00-8:15am – Assembly of the entire training group and training staff for announcements and songs (we sing the Namibian and American national anthems every morning and are learning some native songs as well)
8:30-10:00am – Otjiherero Language lessons
10:00-10:30am – Morning tea break
10:30-12:30pm – Otjiherero Language lessons
1:00-2:00pm – Lunch (after lunch I’ll usually walk to town with others for internet, grocery store, etc.)
2:00-3:00pm – Medical/Safety & Security/Cross Cultural training
3:00-3:15pm – Afternoon tea break
3:15-5:00pm – Medical/Safety & Security/Cross Cultural training
6:00-7:00pm – Dinner
8:00pm – Shower
8:30pm – Journal, write postcards, hang out with others, watch movies, etc.
9:30pm – Go to sleep

As you can see, we are training constantly. And while it’s a pretty draining process we should be fairly prepared for site alone. We’ve been given more “guides” and “manuals” than I can count but all seem to help in one way or another. We’ve received a PC Cookbook that is specifically for our region on Africa using items we can buy in the Namibian grocery stores. We also have several language books and an Otjiherero dictionary. In addition to these, we have a lovely medical handbook that explains in detail every disease or medical issue we could possibly run across while we’re here and how to treat, self-diagnose and when to know to call the PC Medical Officer (PCMO). We also received a fancy PC Medical Kit with everything under the sun. Good thing I packed most of it from the states.
Thanks to everyone for the encouraging emails and blog comments! I promise I will return personal emails once I get some time on my hands – which I’m told we’ll have plenty after training. Right now 33 volunteers are trying to use the same internet café that has only five computers so it’s a bit rushed. Hoping to get a cell phone next week!

Alive and Well in Namibia!!

2009-08-24T07:52:00.003-04:00

new friends Caitie, Julie and Sarah in Okahandja

had to learn how to put up a mosqioto net

first Namibian sunset

training center

my room at the training center

landing in Namibia

airport in Namibia

Where to begin?!? So I’ll try to bring you up briefly since my last post however I’m certain I’ll leave out something. We arrived in Namibia on Friday, August 21st after what was essentially 3 days of travel from DC. We deplaned to the most beautiful weather I’ve seen in a long time (no humidity, 80 degrees, sunny, with a light breeze) – welcome to Namibia’s spring weather! We were met by the PC Country Director, other PC staff and 2 current PCVs. We claimed our luggage and loaded onto a bus that took us to our training site where I am now. Our luggage all arrived – some had been rifled through in the Jo’Burg airport but the only thing taken from mine were some pens and sharpies – I can get more of those. Our training site is about 45 minutes outside of Windhoek, the capital city. We will be at the training facility until Friday and then we move in with our first home-stay family. The facility is great – hot water, western toilets, twin beds and a communal shower/bathroom facility and dining area. I’m going to liken it to going to camp at Transy? I definitely feel like I’m walking down the Chi-O hall on my way to the shower carrying my shower caddy and rooming with three other girls. We got to unpack and get settled for a few days so we’re making it feel like home as much as possible. In order to keep the mosquitoes away while we sleep we were all given mosquito nets to hang up ourselves. This proved to be a hilarious and frustrating task but somehow they are up. Mine is currently rigged with an extra scarf I brought and random string. But no bites yet so I guess its working!
Our days have been scheduled from 8am to dinner for the most part filled with training. There is a group of about 12 Namibians who work for Peace Corps as our trainers in technical skills (teaching methods), language, health, cross-cultural and safety/security issues. We will have these sessions every day until October when training is over and we become real PCVs!
As far as my shots and meds go, before we left DC we all received a yellow fever vaccination and upon arrival in Namibia we got our first rabies shot along with our first dose of Larium (malaria medicine that is supposed to make you have very crazy lucid dreams – haven’t had any yet). More shots to come are typhoid, meningitis and two more rabies shots. Hopefully that will be it!
On our first day we were taken on a tour of the city where we are training and living for the next 8 weeks. Probably similar in size to Harrodsburg – about 8,000-10,000 people is what I’ve been told. Our trainers took us around so we could get our bearings - the post office, internet café, grocery stores, etc. Essentially there’s basically everything we need or could want – for the most part. The food has been good – but just what I expected. Lots of fatty meat, rice, pasta and potatoes with veggies. It’s good though and I haven’t gotten sick yet so that’s a good sign! Oh! And the best part is you can drink the water straight from the tap in Namibia unlike many other African countries. I have been drinking it since we’ve been here and feel fine. Sickness is bound to set in soon but for now I’m feeling great, just always a little tired.

Tomorrow we have our interviews with the English teaching group (there are other groups that came with us to teach math, science and computer science). These interviews are where we will learn about the potential sites for our permanent sites which we will move to in October. This will determine what language we will begin learning over the next few weeks. We’ll see if I luck out and get chosen to learn a “click” language :)

Well that’s about it for now. There’s just so much and I’m not at a point where I feel like I can properly put everything into words. Hopefully in the future my posts won’t be so random. Everyone here is so welcoming and so nice and that has really made this transition a bit easier. It’s still not easy – but it is getting a little easier every day. I’m making some good friends here and that’s made all the difference because everyone is going through the same thing.
People have been asking what they can send me in care packages (thank you to those who have offered!)…….I don’t really need any toiletries and probably won’t for awhile but maybe in the future. For now, just something that reminds me of home – magazines, newspapers (especially the Sunday NY Times), maybe some crossword puzzle books, something sweet that won’t melt, and anything else you would want to get if you were in Africa thousands of miles away from family and friends.

Hope to be back on here soon, but not sure when exactly.
Thanks for reading!

PS. Enjoy the pictures! Only have a few to share so far and it takes awhile to upload them here. They are bit out of order but they are from our arrival and first few days here in Namibia.

Namibia or bust!

2009-08-19T14:47:00.002-04:00

Currently I'm sitting at the airport awaiting our flight to South Africa that departs at 5:40pm. We've had two pretty long days of Staging (orientation, shots, policies and procedures) and while none of us feel "prepared"...we are prepared as we can be. I am part of Group 30, meaning the 30th group of PC Volunteers to serve in Namibia. We are 33 strong and come from a variety of backgrounds. Some with plenty of travel experience, some with very little, some with none. The West is represented with a married couple from Seattle and others from L.A. and Colorado while the East and Midwest are pretty heavy with volunteers from New York, and a few from Pennsylvania and Ohio, Virginia, Illinois and Indiana. There is one other girl from the South here so Georgia and Kentucky should be proud of their southern ladies. We even have someone from Hawaii. Needless to say, people are from all over and that's what makes it so interesting. We do feel a bit as if it's the first few days of college as you try to figure out your surroundings and make new friends, but we're doing pretty well.

Tonight..tomorrow? sometime we land in Johannesburg, South Africa after our 17 hour flight. At some point during the journey we stop in Dakar, Senegal to refuel but we won't deplane. We finally land in Jo'Burg at 5:20pm on August 2oth where we will tranfer to a hotel for the night. The following morning we will board a plane for Namibia. FINALLY.

The last 2 days have been filled with emotions that I might not ever be able to describe to you. I won't lie...I had the feeling of "what am I doing?"..."its not to late to go home" last night after orientation. And I was on the verge of tears for most of the day. BUT. Today is a better day. Everyone is anxious, nervous and excited but we just want to get there.

Thanks to everyone for the well wishes and luck sent my way. I will need it. There is no doubt.

Not sure when I will be able to post again but keep checkin!

Hugs!

(Above is a picture of our arrival at the airport earlier today and all of our bags)

Peace Out

2009-08-17T15:47:00.005-04:00

Well it's about that time. I've said goodbye to my parents and many friends over he past few days and now it's really time to go. This post has been a long time coming, to say the least. I was ready to type this in mid-June as I prepared to travel to the French speaking Muslim world of Mauritania. But, plans change. Due to elections, coups, visa issues and most likely other factors that we’ll never know about, plans changed and my trip to Mauritania was cancelled.

Surprisingly I was only bummed for a night or two….realizing that everything happens for a reason so there must be something great waiting for me around the corner. My patience was tried for one whole long week before I learned that I would be spending my next 27 months in Namibia, Africa.

Now that my departure date is finally here I’ll admit that August 18th managed to creep up from behind and tap me on the shoulder faster than I ever expected it to. It’s the day that I leave the comforts of home behind and head to Washington, D.C. to meet up with my fellow trainees, also known as Group 30, I believe – meaning we are the 30th group of Peace Corps Volunteers to serve in Namibia. From D.C. we’ll fly together on a never-ending flight to Johannesburg, South Africa where we will overnight before boarding a final flight to Windhoek, Namibia.

Who knows what I’m about to endure and enjoy, but I’m as ready as I’ve ever been.

Sometimes you just need a good break from the everyday monotony of what we call life and while some people might just take off and go to the beach or sneak away to read a book…I’m taking a different route. Why? I wish I had some profound answer for that question….no, I’m not looking to save the world one child at a time and no, I’m not having a pre-turning-30 crisis. I just needed a change of scenery and wanted to see the world from a completely different perspective than I have before. I want to try my hand at something that I have never done and be successful. I want to live simple and take a deep breath. And for the first time in my life I will love to not wear makeup and fix my hair every day! I’m leaving my pearls behind as well as my party dresses, peep-toes and weekly pedicures. And while many of you wonder how I will survive without these gems that I’m known for…….who knows…but I’m really looking forward to finding out.

People ask me everyday how this “Peace Corps thing” came to be and why I was leaving the guts and glory of campaigns and politics. Well here’s the answer that I’ve finally coined nearly one year in the making: I chose to serve in the Peace Corps because I need a break. Not a break to relax and recoup. And not a break to revive my senses in the day spa either (however I have a strange feeling I’ll be craving that at some point down the road). I merely need to take a break from the world I’m living now and see what else I can become. I want to see what else is out there and make a difference in someone else’s life along the way. That’s it. Nothing profound, nothing to be printed in the Herald Leader….just a simple new take on life is what I’m after.

So here I go….

To the people who my memories are made of, thank you. To those of you have challenged, questioned or dared me, thank you. If you’ve loved me, cared for me, or picked me up when I was down, thank you. Those of you who taught me to really love and really laugh – thank you. You have all, in your own unique way, prepared me for this 17 hour plane flight and the world I’m about to discover when I deplane in Namibia.

Here’s wishing the best for each of you! PLEASE PLEASE stay in touch!

Stay classy Kentucky,
Amy

PS. To all of the birthdays I will miss: May they be filled with plenty of laughter and lots of bubbly. To all of the brides and grooms I won’t get to see walk down that aisle: Kick up your heels to “Mustang Sally” and toast a glass of champagne for me – I want pics ASAP! And finally, to all of those babies on their way into this crazy world (Jones, Bostick,& Lankster): I can’t wait to meet you! Crazy Aunt Amy will be back before you know it. And to Will Jones – you keep fightin’ my friend.

Hint Hint...

2009-08-16T19:24:00.003-04:00

"Another suggestion for helping you adapt upon arrival is to have friends and family send you letters and packages even now, before you have left. That way, these things will arrive after you are here and there is nothing that lifts the spirits of a PCV more than receiving mail and goodies from home."

(From the PC Volunteer Support Network)

Packing for Namibia - almost done!

2009-08-12T22:02:00.003-04:00

Can I Fit In Your Bag?

Clothes
5 ankle length skirts
3 pairs of shorts (2 regular, 1 athletic)
3 pairs of capris
1 pair of jeans
2 pair of khacki pants
3 dresses (2 casual, 1 for dressy occasions)
3 sweaters
1 thin fleece pullover
4 long sleeve shirts
1 short-sleeved cartigan
3 t-shirts
12 short-sleeved tops
6 tank tops
60 pairs of underwear
6 bras (2 reg, 4 sport)
2 pairs of Pj's
1 pair of lounge pants
1 swimsuit
1 winter hat, gloves and scarf
2 pair of winter socks
3 pair of athletic socks
5 pairs of shoes (trail, sport sandal, rainbow flops, J-41 Aquarius, black sandals)
1 hat

Electronics
1 travel alarm clock
1 Solio charger
1 headlamp
1 clip on reading light
1 adapter plug
1 flashlight
6 packs of batteries
1 Kindle
2 cameras
1 Ipod + Speakers

Miscellaneous
1 sewing kit
1 Leatherman multi-purpose tool
1 micro-fiber hair towel
1 camp towel
1 pack of Ziploc gallon bags
1 all purpose drawstring bag
50 notecards and envelopes
1 address book
1 photo album with pics from home
2 journals
1 guide to South Africa travel
1 laptop with webcam
20 DVD's
Gifts for host family members (UK garb, USA buttons, KY State Senate pins, bubbles, crayons, jewelry, stickers, KY postcards)
2 Nalgene bottles
1 pillow
2 flat sheets
1 sleeping bag
1 map of the world
1 roll of duct tape
1 first-aid kit
1 calendar
1 bag of pencils, pens, sharpies, scissors and push pins)
8 ID photos
Clif Bars
2 pairs of sunglasses

Personal
Toiletries for 2 months (Lush shampoo bars, sunscreen, toothpaste, Venus razors, Dove deoderant, body soap, tampons, etc.)
Makeup bag with 1 tube of mascara, 2 compacts of face powder and 2 pots of lipgloss (insert sigh)
Lots of hair clips, bobby pins, hair rubberbands
1 BIG ole' bag of meds n' such (cold meds, immodium, Aleve, Neosporin, vitamins, etc.)
1 pair of hair cutting scissors

What it's all going in:
1 internal frame backpack
1 rolling duffel
1 regular backpack (carry-on)
1 small messenger (carry-on)

Peace Corps on YouTube

2009-08-10T17:48:00.002-04:00

Just in case you have some free time on your hands, the Peace Corps has launched their own YouTube channel where you can find 50+ videos about Peace Corps life, history and programs. Here's the link if you want to check it out: http://www.youtube.com/peacecorps

Texting for Health

2009-08-10T17:27:00.003-04:00

Ever wondered what exactly Peace Corps Volunteers do? Well here's a great example of what some of the Health Education volunteers are doing in Namibia.

Volunteers in Namibia use text messaging for health education

Innovative project provides answers on many health issues, including HIV/AIDS

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 22, 2009 – Health Education Response (HER), software developed by Peace Corps Volunteers Rashid Khan of Phoenix, Ariz., and Jennifer Moore of Gillette, Wyo., has revolutionized health education in Namibia. HER utilizes software designed to provide health information through mobile phone-based SMS, also known as text messaging, permitting the program to operate nationwide. The HER program distributes health information through pre-written content on major topics, and also forwards user questions to a pool of Peace Corps Volunteers prepared to field a wide array of health-related inquiries including topics related to HIV/AIDS and birth control.

In June 2009, the system exchanged 2,382 SMSs with 325 unique clients. Peace Corps acting Director Jody K. Olsen said, “The Health Education Response program is a great example of Peace Corps Volunteers who are working with local partners to find creative solutions to solve local problems. It is a wonderful innovation to harness widely available technology in the fight against HIV/AIDS."

The program launched in February as a completely automated database consisting of only pre-written content and a listing of ARV clinics. The program later expanded to allow callers the option to speak with a “real live person” who is knowledgeable on a broad range of health subjects.Said Peace Corps/Namibia Director Hannah Baldwin, “The beauty of the system is that it permits people to ask questions they would not ask directly, and provides excellent information in a non-threatening way.”

Currently, HER is staffed by 11 Peace Corps Volunteers and a counselor from Childline/Lifeline, a non-profit counseling hotline that fields user questions. The program is constantly being updated as conversations with Volunteers are tracked and analyzed, and common discussion themes and keywords are identified. Khan explained, “We can track down to the occurrence how often a theme, such as condoms, HIV, or pregnancy is brought up. This data can be assembled into reports that can be used to create other programs.

Other organizations are also taking an interest in this initiative. We’ve managed to secure the support of MTC, Namibia’s largest mobile phone provider, who will be providing us no-cost service.”

As the Peace Corps approaches its 50th anniversary, its service legacy continues to promote peace and friendship around the world. Historically, over 195,000 Volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries in which they have served. Currently, 7,876 Peace Corps Volunteers are serving in 76 countries. Peace Corps Volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.

Source: www.peacecorps.gov

2 weeks to go!

2009-08-04T18:57:00.005-04:00

More info continues to roll in as my departure date draws near! Over the weekend, I received some information providing details on my arrival logistics and training schedule for the first 8 weeks.

The formal Pre-Service Training begins August 22, 2009 and ends October 15, 2009. My schedule will be heavy on Community Based Training and home stay activities. Sessions will generally be held from Monday morning to Friday, with some evening meetings and an occasional Saturday morning session to end around noon. During this training, I will study one of the following languages: Afrikaans, Rukwangali, Silozi, Otjiherero, Khoekhoegowab, or Oshindonga - all from the Bantu family of languages.

My first six nights will be spent at the Andreas Kukuri Center in Okahandja about 45 minutes outside of the capital city, Windhoek. For the rest of our training I will live with a host family in Okahandja. Below is a tentative schedule of my first 8 weeks of training.

August 21 Trainees arrive in Windhoek and travel straight to the training center in Okahandja

Week 1 & 2
August 21 - 29 Orientation at Andreas Kukuri Center, Okahandja
August 28 Move in with host families
August 31 – Sept 5 Intensive training (all components)

Week 3
September 7 – 12 Intensive training (all components)
September 12 Meet your Supervisor & sessions

Week 4 & 5
September 13 Travel to permanent sites
September 14 – 19 On-the-job training
September 20 – 25 On-the-job training
September 26 Return travel from permanent sites

Week 6
September 27 – Oct 3 Classroom observations at local schools

Week 7
October 4 – 10 Intensive training (all components)

Week 8
October 11 - 16 Final Language Proficiency Interview
Final Evaluation of PCTs Sessions

October 16 Swearing-in ceremony at NIED, Okahandja
End of PST
Depart to permanent sites

7,790 miles

2009-07-26T21:09:00.002-04:00

Some fancy calculator tells me that the distance between central Kentucky and Namibia is about 7,790 miles.....can't fathom how long that is? Here's some help....

20.5 Kentucky's

2.7 United States'

140,220 football fields

15,580,000 steps

I'm expecting some visitors.....

2009-07-23T18:44:00.004-04:00

Here's my not-so-subtle attempt to lure you to visit me in Namibia......did it work??

http://wikitravel.org/en/Namibia

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/namibia

http://www.classicafrica.com/

http://www.go2africa.com/namibia/

My Assignment

2009-07-21T16:48:00.001-04:00

From the Peace Corps.....

You have been invited to teach English at the upper primary or secondary level.

You will be assigned to one of the primary or secondary schools in Namibia. Schools at this level range in size from about 300 to 1,000 students and offer instruction in grades 6-12. These schools are located throughout the country, but the heaviest concentration is in the far northern regions where 60 percent of the student population lives. The major academic subjects usually offered in Namibian schools are Geography, History, Physical Science, Agriculture, Accounting, Math, Economics, Biology, English, and Afrikaans. Additionally, students may also choose between Typing and Home Economics.
The English syllabus is divided into two parts: language and literature. The areas dealt with include grammar, reading, oral and written skills, as well as a series of poetry, drama, novels, and short stories. English is taught as a subject in all schools from Grade 4. You may also be asked to give English classes to teachers or other adults in the community.

As a Volunteer, you will be under the direct supervision of the principal of the school. The weekly load for teachers can vary, but is usually between 28 and 34 periods a week. In some schools where there is a grave shortage of teachers, the load can shoot up to 38 periods a week. Each period lasts 35 or 40 minutes. Volunteers, however, are expected to teach 70%, of which 10% is allocated to Life Skills subject. The remaining 30% is spent on secondary activities. As a valued staff member, you may also be nominated to committees that work on various aspects of administering and organizing the school. You may also be called upon to organize extramural activities such as track and field, games such as netball (girls), soccer (boys), and volleyball, boxing, drama, or boys and girls clubs. Your weekly routine can become quite full with the addition of these activities to your teaching duties, preparing lessons, marking homework, and grading exams.

The school year is divided into three trimesters; each separated by a two to five week break. Except for the 24 days vacation you earn from Peace Corps each year, you will be expected to utilize trimester breaks to work on special school-related projects, projects in another sector, to attend Ministry of Education workshops or Peace Corps' in-service training events. Note: Except in emergency situations, Volunteers placed in school are not allowed to take leave during the school term.

Besides your classroom teaching responsibilities, you will have opportunities to enhance your own professional skills as well as those of your Namibian colleagues through formal and informal discussions as well as through working together within schools. The teaching experience of the Namibian staff, coupled with the subject expertise that you bring, represents a rich, mutual learning opportunity. The peer-coaching role of a Volunteer includes working with co-teachers, subject heads, and headmasters at your school in developing teaching and learning resources, utilizing both locally available materials and appropriate external resources.

In a more formal way, co-teachers pursuing private studies leading towards a teaching certificate or higher academic level may ask you to tutor them in subjects that you have mastered or are willing to explore with them. It may also be the case that English is the limiting factor. You may then add subject upgrading, teaching methodology, and English language skills to your peer-coaching activities.

This assignment will require a high level of motivation, initiative, and patience. It will also require a certain level of confidence in your abilities, an enthusiasm for working with students of different age groups (which may vary from 14-20 years old), and adults (co-teachers), as well as a good deal of creativity and flexibility. Volunteers assigned to one of the primary and secondary schools will find themselves working on providing students with technical skills, and teachers with the professional insight, skills, and subject knowledge required to promote the principles of a learner (student)-centered approach, focusing on interactive teaching and learning. The Namibian education system also includes the promotion of social responsibility, gender awareness, respect of cultural values, environmental awareness, and national reconciliation.

While the Ministry of Education will continue to have a critical need for trained teachers at all levels within the system, the Ministry wishes to maximize the potential spin-off effect from the use of Peace Corps Volunteers. A major goal of the government is to integrate English across the curriculum thus; all Volunteers must be prepared to learn to teach English. Additionally, Volunteers are often viewed as subject resources, whose command of the subject matter complements the practical teaching experience of their co-teachers. Furthermore, most schools offer computer studies as an examination subject. Additional schools may have one or more computers for administrators and teachers, and may expect a Volunteer to help train teachers and learners how to use a computer.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Class sizes are often large, often with 50-65 learners per class. Namibia, however, has a high dropout rate, which usually increases exponentially in the higher grades.

Overall, teachers in Namibia have a variety of material, institutional, and human resources at their disposal. What resources are available at a given school, however, greatly varies. Unfortunately, some Volunteers may find that their school buildings and facilities are inadequate, and books and resource materials are lacking. Schools that offer Science and Math in most rural areas are poorly equipped and thus, concentrate on theoretical aspects only.

You should come prepared to work with the resources that are locally available. Part of the Peace Corps development philosophy is to work in a way that is sustainable and replicable. Creating program initiatives that rely on advanced technology or other resources that are either not locally available or prohibitively expensive to maintain contradicts Peace Corps’ approach to development. The desire to provide resources because they are easily available to you creates dependence and reinforces issues of disempowerment.

Location of Job
Peace Corps Education Volunteers are placed in schools throughout Namibia in most regions of the country. You will be placed in one of the eight regions out of thirteen in the country. Peace Corps places Volunteers in either upper primary, junior secondary (middle school) or senior secondary (high school). Peace Corps Volunteers are placed in a variety of school settings. Some placements may be in schools with few physical resources, in remote settings, and with a shortage of qualified teachers. Peace Corps/Namibia also supports schools that are well equipped, but have teacher shortages. You should come prepared to accept either of these assignments. To ensure sustainability, Peace Corps/Namibia would ideally want each Volunteer to have a counterpart who is teaching the same subject as you. However, due to the shortage of teachers, you might find yourself teaching without a counterpart.

The final decision about your particular placement will be made by the Peace Corps staff after carefully reviewing your skills and the corresponding needs of the host institutions. Placements are not negotiable. Volunteers should refrain from creating expectations and/or defining a site assignment.

Work Hours
Peace Corps is a 24/7 job. This means that your role as a Peace Corps Volunteer does not end when you leave work for the day. As a “cultural ambassador,” your off-hours and free time still carry the burden and blessing of your commitment to service. The Namibian school calendar lasts from January –December and has three terms a year with breaks in May, August, and December. Please note that Volunteers assigned to schools are not allowed to take leave during the school term.

Volunteer schedules may vary tremendously and may include evening and weekend activities. Your typical work day will be from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Flag Facts

2009-07-19T20:20:00.006-04:00

"Unity, Liberty, Justice"

The flag of Namibia was adopted on March 21, 1990 upon independence from South Africa. After 850 designs were submitted for consideration, the above design was chosen and symbolize the following:

Red - represents Namibia's most important resource, its people. It refers to their heroism and their determination to build a future of equal opportunity for all.

White - refers to peace and unity.

Green - symbolizes vegetation and agricultural resources.
Blue - represents the clear Namibian sky and the Atlantic Ocean, the country's precious water resources and rain.

Golden-Yellow Sun - represents life and energy.

Go Cats!

2009-07-19T20:04:00.003-04:00

Namibia has the world's highest population of what animal?

The Cheetah. There are an estimated 2,500 - 3,000 cheetahs in Namibia. However this is not a scientifically based estimate, and more accurate research continues. Cheetahs are under pressure from farming and ranching encroachment on their habitat. Leopards and lions are also indigenous big cats in Namibia.

Check back often for more Namibian facts of the day!

Staging: Round 2

2009-07-18T20:47:00.002-04:00

Well I've made my flight reservations, received my reporting documents and packed for the fourth time. Staging is in D.C. this time around at a hotel in the Georgetown area. Here's a look at what my schedule will be like:

Tuesday, August 18th
7:10am Depart Lexington Airport
10:20am Arrive Washington National Airport
1:30pm Registration begins at the Holiday Inn Georgetown Hotel
3:30-7:00pm Training (History of PC, Managing Risk, Anxieties, Commitment, Logistics)

Wednesday, August 19th
8:00am Check out of hotel
8:30am Bus arrives for loading and departure to clinic
5:40pm Plane departs for Namibia (17 hours nonstop to Johannesburg, South Africa)

Thursday, August 20th
5:20pm Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa (ummm...are we there yet?)

Friday, August 21st
9:45am Plane departs Johannesburg for Windhoek, Namibia
10:45am Arrive Windhoek, Namibia (FINALLY!)

PS. The Mauritanian elections were held today with the polls closing around 7pm local time. The vote began Saturday after police in Nouakchott exchanged fire overnight with two alleged members of an al-Qaida-linked terror cell that claimed responsibility for gunning down an American teacher here last month. To all those PCV's that chose to stay.....please be safe.

Please Stay In Touch!

2009-07-05T11:21:00.015-04:00

Amy Wickliffe, PCT

Peace Corps

PO Box 6862

20 Nachtigal Street

Ausspannplatz

Windhoek

Namibia

Helpful Hints for keeping in touch with me....

This address is also posted in the right column of my blog for easy reference. This address is only valid until October 15, 2009. Once my training concludes and I receive my permanent site placement I will have a new address and will post it as soon as I get it.
The Peace Corps tells us that the mail system is reliable in Namibia (yay!), but it will probably take 2-3 weeks for the mail to actually reach me.
Remember to write "Airmail" on the letter or package, otherwise I might not ever receive what you sent me as it could take up to a year for "ground" mail to get delivered across the pond.
For those of you who have offered to send care packages (THANK YOU!), the best way to send items is to use padded envelopes - they are cheaper and easier to send and receive. Once I get established at my site I will post a list of items on this blog that I need and can't get in Namibia. Thank you again to those of you who have offered to send me little pieces of home!
Remember you can always send me an email! I'm not sure how much access I will have, but I'll figure that out when I get over there. But I will be keeping my gmail account so send me an email and let me know how you're doing - AmyD.Wickliffe@gmail.com
And last, but certainly not least - I WANT LETTERS FROM YOU! (and pictures)

Stay in touch!

Take 2: Namibia!!

2009-06-30T16:11:00.003-04:00

So the past month has been a bit of a roller coaster to say the least. First, I was delayed until August due to issues with our visas and the upcoming Presidential elections in Mauritania. Last Tuesday, I read where an American aid worker was killed after an attempted kidnapping in the capital city of Mauritania and shortly after learned that Al Qaeda took responsibility.Not good. http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE55P2L420090626

Wednesday, I received a call from the Peace Corps informing me that my program was canceled in Mauritania. I was bummed...but when Al Qaeda enters the game...I'm out. The Peace Corps didn't speak of the incident that occured on Tuesday...stating that they decided to go ahead and cancel our group since our visas still weren't working out. Today, I learned that the Peace Corps is giving the current volunteers over there the option to stay in country or terminate their service early and come back to the US. All that said...I'm not supposed to be there.

The GOOD NEWS!! So, after waiting since last Wednesday to hear where I would be reassigned I finally got the email today!! I'm headed to Namibia on August 19th!!!!! While completely different from Mauritania I couldn't be happier.

Quick Facts:

Country: Namibia (Southern West Coast of Africa, bordered by Bostwana, South Africa and Angola)

Official Language: English!!!! (German and Afrikaans are both widely spoken as well)

Assignment: English teacher to Upper Primary and Secondary students (grades 6-12)

Government: Democratic Republic (thank goodness), multi-party system

Religion: 80% Christian

Capital: Windhoek

Orientation in US: August 19-20, 2009

Training in Namibia: August 21-October 15, 2009

Service in Namibia: October 16, 2009-October 17, 2011

Shiloh Jolie Pitt was born in Namibia (maybe Brad will come visit me while paying homage to his daughter's homeland)

Mail: The postal system is reliable, but service to the more remote villages is often slow. Mail from the United States to Windhoek, the capital, can take up to two weeks. From there, it could take two more weeks for mail to reach your village.

Telephones: Telephones are available in most towns and villages, along or near main roads, and in most schools. No international telephone companies (e.g., MCI or AT&T) operate in Namibia,
so you will be unable to make collect calls or use calling cards purchased in the United States. Calling cards are available in Namibia for use in-country and internationally. International service from the larger towns is good, but calls must be made from a telecommunications office or a private phone. Cellphone usage and coverage is increasing rapidly in Namibia, especially in urban areas. All Volunteers are expected to purchase cellphones, and the cost is included in their settling-in allowance. Only a few PCVs will lack coverage at their sites, and they will be able to use their phones by traveling a short distance for weekend shopping. Text messaging is quickly becoming a preferred means of communication between Volunteers and with the PC office.

Computer, Internet, and E-mail Access: Access to e-mail is available in Internet cafes in Windhoek and other larger towns. As telephone service expands, so will Internet access. Some teacher resource centers provide public access to e-mail but not the Internet.

Housing and Site Location: Housing varies considerably. Your site may be a Western-style
cement block house, usually with electricity and running water; an apartment attached to a student boarding facility (hostel); or, in the case of more rural junior secondary schools, a room with a local family. As the government has invited assistance from a variety of sources, you may also be asked to share a two- or three-bedroom house with one or two colleagues (either Namibian or Volunteers from other countries). Our expectation is that you will have a private bedroom, but remember that there is a shortage of housing for government staff in most areas in Namibia. The ministry/hosting agency to which you are assigned is responsible fo paying your monthly utilities and providing you with the basic furnishings (e.g., bed, chairs, tables, stove, and gas refrigerator).

That's all for now! Thanks for all of the congratulatory emails and calls!! More info to come as soon as I have a chance to read up on my new home!!

90 pounds and 114 inches of Home

2009-06-20T16:32:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I'm actually only allowed 80 lbs (total!) and a combo of 107 inches (L+W+H) worth of luggage but I'm over the limit...I know you're shocked. I have paired down my goods twice now and just can't seem to leave much more out. What does one take to the desert for a two year trip? Thought you might like to know....

5 ankle-length skirts (must be able to sit cross-legged on the floor while wearing it)
14 t-shirts (must have my shoulders covered at all times)
176 pairs of cotton underwear (they always make you feel clean even if you're not)
2 bottles of Aleve
1 REI Bug Hut II
1 bathing suit
4 pairs of shoes (tennis shoes, Chaco sandals and 2 pairs of Teva flip-flops)
4 bottles of sunscreen
1 mascara
2 cameras
10 packs of batteries (AA, AAA, D)
3 scarves (to cover my head when necessary and to cover my face when the dust/sand kicks up) 1 wind-breaker jacket
1 thin polar fleece (they say it actually gets cool at some point)
1 razor
45 razor cartidges
1 pillow
1 sheet
A random bag of meds (immodium, vitamins, neosporin, cortaid, alcohol wipes, bandaids, etc)
1 sewing kit (I don't even sew here...but I'm taking one)
2 pairs of socks
4 pairs of pants (1 pair of jeans, 3 pairs of capris)
4 pairs of shorts
110 packs of instant drink mixes (the mini-ones you can drop into a bottle of water)
2 Nalgene bottles
56 Clif bars (I tried to take 56 more - but they got weeded out)
A random bag of other food stuffs (hot chocolate mix, instant Jell-O, instant oatmeal)
1 summer sleeping bag
12 passport photos
12 DVDs (Weddings Crashers, Sex and the City, Bridget Jones 1 & 2, Thank you for Smoking, Steel Magnolias, Twilight, Sex and the City Season 1, The Beach, Love Actually, and a DVD made by my best friends with lots of pictures of home)
3 journals
1 Kindle with 20 books loaded and ready
1 shortwave radio
2 flashlights
1 deck of cards (when all else fails...I can play solitare)
1 small photo album of friends and family
Lots of stationary to write home
2 pairs of sunglasses
2 BIG packs of wet wipes/baby-wipes
2 bottles of hand-sanitizer
1 pair of hair-cutting scissors
1 roll of duct tape
Bag of goodies for the kids (bubbles, crayons, slinkys, stickers)
1 Rough Guide to West Africa
1 map of the world
1 solar charger (charges my camera, ipod and cell phone)
1 laptop
1 Ipod with 300 of my favorite tunes
1 headlamp
1 French/English dictionary
1 address book
2 bottles of bug repellent
7 sports bras
2 camp towels
6 pairs of earrings, 1 bracelet and 1 necklace (sigh...)
1 box of large ziploc bags (to keep the dust and sand out of my food)
1 Leatherman tool (which I'm still learning how to use without slicing my hand off)

Packing this stuff has been a challenge to say the least. I've packed and re-packed twice already and as soon as I find out when I'm leaving in August I'll be packing for the third and hopefully final time before I'm outta here. In the meantime, I'll just practice the art of crafty packing and hope I can weed out some more "necessities" before departure.

Patience and Flexibility

2009-06-09T09:35:00.005-04:00

In every book, document or email I've received from the Peace Corps to date has most always included a plea for my patience and flexibility throughout this entire process from application to departure. Now I know why. Last night I got a call from the Peace Corps HQ in Washington, D.C. that informed me that I was not leaving on June 15th as we had originally planned. In fact, they didn't really know when I would be leaving but hoped for mid-August.

Given the current state of affairs in Mauritania and the upcoming Presidential elections that are set to take place on July 18th (cross your fingers they don't delay the elections further) the government is refusing to issue our visas that we are required to have before we board the plane to Mauritania. The PC thinks that after the elections things will be fine and we'll be able to go.

I'm a little bummed, but realize that there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. So I'll just enjoy my summer at home and make the best of it. I could leave sooner but the PC wasn't real optomistic about that.

Stay tuned....

A Kentucky Goodbye....

2009-06-07T19:20:00.002-04:00

Last night some of my closest friends and family celebrated my next adventure Kentucky style at The Julep Cup in Lexington. Perfect night, great food, tasty cocktails and absolutely pefect company. Thanks to everyone who made last night one to remember. Love you all!!

Next Stop...Philadelphia

2009-05-20T20:56:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I received my final information for staging (aka the 2-3 days of prep we receive before we board the plane for Mauritania). Our staging will take place in the "City of Brotherly Love" June 15-17. I made my flight arrangements today so no backing out now! Looks like I'll be flying out of Lexington on June 15th at 9:19am! Below is a schedule of what we'll be doing in Philly.

June 15
6-8pm Check-in and registration

June 16
6:45am Leave the hotel to go to the clinic to get our meds and shots
1-6pm Welcome to Peace Corps, Background, Managing Risk, Reflection, etc.

June 17
7:00am Depart Philly via bus to JFK Airport
3:50pm Plane departs for Mauritania!! (Nonstop - 8 hrs)

Your Choice....PCV or Mauritanian?

2009-05-20T20:42:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love a good theme party? Last night was a good one. My dear friends the Dedman's threw me a going away party with our closest friends in Harrodsburg. The twist? Unbeknownst to me, everyone was told to either dress like a Peace Corps Volunteer or a Mauritanian. Great idea! Needless to say we shared alot of laughs last night. Thank you Chuck, Helen, Becky, Dixon and Elizabeth!

This is pretty cool....

2009-05-11T18:58:00.002-04:00

Today I received an unexpected envelope from the Kentucky State Senate. Over the years I've heard these citations read for a variety of people and now I have one!! Check it out.

Surprise!! Let the celebrating begin...

2009-05-08T15:37:00.004-04:00

Last night all of my favorite people from my various political jobs over the last seven years surprised me with a going away party. Let the parties begin! Thank you to everyone who came and a special thanks to my peeps at MSS...you guys are the best!

Tour of Mauritania

2009-04-20T12:02:00.001-04:00

I ran across this clip on YouTube that was filmed when the Director of the Peace Corps visited Mauritania in 2007. Take a look at my soon to be new home...

Two Months

2009-04-14T16:02:00.002-04:00

Or sixty days….however you slice it - it’s getting close! Every day I can’t help but think about what I’ll miss the most during my 27 months in the sandbox. Obviously I’ll miss my friends and family…that’s a given. But I’m starting to savor random things that I love about the Bluegrass like…

Harry’s mini-cheeseburgers. My couch. Nail Envogue. Zac’s magic scissors. Yoga classes at Dudley Square. Starbucks. The Hills. Ellen and Joey’s patio (and garage). Derby. UK Basketball. K&Z’s pool. Atomic’s patio. Grouper fingers from Merrick. Party dresses. Dinner Club. My rooftop terrace. Reagan. The tavern. A good glass of Relax Riesling. A Flirtini from Buddy’s. Instant access to my email. Target. Washing machines. Bravo. Election nights. Us Weekly. My bamboo sheets. Lilly. Nars. Sephora. My pearls. Christmas morning mimosas with the fam. Smashbox. Bellini’s. Bourbon. Vogue. Walks at the arboretum. Peggy’s. Driving over the bridge to the Capitol. Ann Taylor. Keeneland. Milkshakes. Fireworks. Concord drycleaners. AJ’s Casuals. Mousetrap’s pimento cheese. My mom’s chicken and broccoli casserole. Lunch and margaritas with the ladies of MSS. Annual get-togethers with the girls of HHS. Gossip Girl.

While some things are a little sad or silly (and I’ll admit it, VERY random) ….I’m glad to know they’ll all be here whenever I get back (ok – maybe not The Hills if this really is Lauren’s last season but Speidi is bound to be out somewhere on TV makin’ a dime). For now, I’m winding things up in Frankfort getting ready for a month vacation before I pack it all up and start anew. Hope to see everyone very soon!

Taxi Brousse

2009-04-01T15:42:00.017-04:00

Alright, I'll admit it. There are some days when I ask myself what in the world I'm doing. But then I laugh and realize I can't wait to start this crazy journey. Lately I've been soaking up information about Mauritania and West Africa anywhere I can find it. Trying to do as much research as I can before I go because I intend to do alot of traveling while I'm over there. My motto - if you are thousands of miles away from home, travel to as many countries as you can because chances are you might not have the chance again. This one particular piece of 'travel advice' made me giggle because I have read many accounts about these bush taxis or taxi brousse. I know I'll have my own experiences in the bush taxis to share once I'm over there but for now, those willing to come visit me...you might want to think twice and meet me in Spain :)

From Travel Independent

http://travelindependent.info/africa-west.htm
Getting around: There are many forms of overland transport in West Africa, but none more common and unique to this part of the world than the bush taxi or taxi brousse - a form of shared transport in a car. Bush taxis are always private, but rarely does the driver own the vehicle, and are effectively a small bus. Almost without exception a bush taxi will leave when full (or when all seats are sold) not by a timetable. Depending on the popularity of the route this can take half an hour or even several days. If you are early you can choose where you sit, late comers have no choice - sitting in the front is the best and worst is the back (the side with no shade is also pretty bad). If a bush/private taxi looks like it is going to get uncomfortably full or will take ages to fill up with all the required passengers, you can buy extra seats at the same price of one or even charter the whole thing. In some cases you are going to be asked for more money for a big bag. On some occasions when the taxi is taking ages to fill up some passengers will club together to buy remaining seats and get going. If this happens or you personally buy an extra seat, don't expect a discount - time is not money in West Africa. Best get a bush taxi early in the morning or on a market day. There are a few different types of bush taxi in West Africa, most a moving form of torture.

Bush taxis are normally Peugeot 504s (that have been made in Nigeria or driven from France), or at least the main type anyone with any sense/money would take, over mini-buses or pick-ups. The quality of these vehicles ranges from whimsically forlorn to past belief. In fact the state of bush taxis in West Africa will probably be your most entertaining experience each day.
A Peugeot 504 or cent-quatre as they are known have three rows of seats and are designed to take seven plus the driver, but in many countries this is flagrantly flaunted. Mali springs to mind where the driver plus nine is the norm and even worse in Guinea they go for ten plus! Normally the wealthier the country the less people they squeeze in. The quality of the car will affect the comfort, but on the whole even with seven in the car (three in each row and one in the front) long trips are very uncomfortable and the front seat even if shared is the best place. If you worry about safety perhaps just don't go to West Africa, doors won't open, tyres are bald, there is normally a hole in the floor somewhere. Drivers vary, some dangerous, some okay.

Sometimes mini-buses are used as big bush taxis, these are cheaper and sometimes more comfortable, but take longer and are rarer. Much more common are pick-ups (bâchés). With wooden seats, these are so past 2nd class that after a few hours you would rather be walking (you sometimes figure you would get there faster - bâchés are slow and take a lot of time at road blocks). They take about 16 passengers and a lot of luggage. Without beating around the bush: travelling on all the above is pretty unpleasant, but none more so that a bâchés and sometimes they are the only option. Best advice, just remember a bad day travelling is better than a good day at work! (or so they say). Remember you're in Africa, get in to the local humour and as your arse slams onto the hard wooden bench as the pick-up hits a huge pot hole, a chicken bites your leg and a bag of millet land on you just think.......

Timeline Questions Answered

2009-03-30T14:18:00.007-04:00

I've received several questions about the process of becoming a Peace Corps Volunteer so I thought I'd share my answers with everyone in case there's anyone out there itching to apply. Warning: this process isn't for the impatient.

Last week of May 2008: Filled out my application online, wrote the required 2 essays, sent in my college transcripts and began to wait.

June 1, 2008: Finalized my online application and hit the "submit" button - here I go! Need to find 3 references who will tell the PC that I'm an awesome candidate. (Thank you EF, JM, and KB!)

June 16, 2008: Got a call from the Peace Corps office in Chicago asking to schedule a phone interview. Scheduled for June 24, 2008. Prep time.

June 24, 2008: Phone interview. A few normal interview questions but several curveballs. When he asked me how I would handle an "unstructured" work environment I was stumped...then he helped me along and said "well tell me about your work in the campaigns you've worked on" - BINGO! I knocked it out of the park. I knew those campaign experiences would come in handy. After the necessary questions were asked of me, he says "well we're about finished Amy, do you have any questions for me at this time?" I wanted to say, yes, can you block off your entire afternoon so I can ask you everything that I can think of? But I didn't, I only asked one question - "when will I find out if I'm in?" He politely asks me to hold on the line, but then he comes right back after plugging my name and experiences into his trusty little Peace Corps matcher-upper and says "How does teaching English in West Africa sound to ya? You would leave in June 2009 but I can't tell you any other specifics." Sounds good to me. I accept and I'm officially Nominated to be a PCV.

July & August 2008: Medical Clearance. Multiple doctors visits, seven viles of blood drawn, some precautionary dental work and an eye appointment. If anyone was worried, I now know that I am healthy as a horse. I receive a letter stating that I am "Medically Cleared Worldwide."

August 2008: Legal Clearance. Fingerprints at the police station prove that I am not a criminal just trying to escape to a foreign country. I'm cleared.

January 30, 2009: I haven't heard anything from PC in months so I break down and call. I told myself I wasn't going to bug them until February 1st...I made it to January 30th - not bad. I speak to a lady who said she was just reveiwing my application and had a few more questions for me. I answer them, they're softball questions but she wants to make sure my parents understand that I could be assigned to a very remote location where I might not have instant communciation. I tell her we're operating on the "once a month" rule until we know more - as in I will only be able to call or email them once a month. She seems pleased and says I should know something within 60 days. Ok - a little longer than I was hoping but at least I could see the light at the end of the tunnel.

February 2, 2009: I receive an email from the PC stating I have an "Application Status Update." Unfortunately I read this email while I was driving into work so my mind wondered the whole way from Lexington to Frankfort. Was this my invitation I've been waiting on? Was this an email telling me I wasn't fit for the PC? I get to work and open the update to read "Congratulations! You're Invitation Packet has been mailed." That's it - nothing more nothing less. Snail mail? Seriously...this is 2009. But I figure that I'd waited since June 2008 I can wait a few more days for the US Postal Service to do it's job.

February 7, 2009: INVITED!!! I've already written about this day (see very first blog post) so I won't repeat. But it was damn near one of the most exciting days of my life. This little piece of paper told me where I was going to live and work for the next 2 years and I couldn't be more happy about it.

So that's how it happened. While a pretty lengthy process, I now understand why. Since February I've bought everything from a headlamp to a Bug Hut and nearly everything in between. I've most recently started buying things in 3 month supplies (that's what they tell you to bring) such as shampoo, soap, and Clif bars. Some of my purchases yield some strange looks though from the cashiers who have the luxury of checking me out. I'm sure they think I'm either going into hiding with all of my Clif bars and soap or constructing a tent or cape with the 45 pairs of unmentionables I bought. Strange looks I may receive, but there are some things I'm just not willing to go without.

Never met this woman....but she rocks!

2009-03-22T20:59:00.002-04:00

When Mauritania holds presidential elections on June 7th, one candidate will be a brave young woman who has done it all before. Aicha Bint Jeddane talks with Magharebia about why she is seeking the country's highest post for the second time. Check her out....

First female presidential candidate breaks gender barriers in ...
Magharebia.com - ‎Mar 20, 2009‎

Beauty Secrets of Mauritania

2009-03-18T15:11:00.004-04:00

Back in November, Oprah dedicated one of her shows to "Beauty Secrets from Around the World." She had guests on to discuss beauty expectations of women in Japan, India, Oman, Brazil and guess where else....Mauritania!! Some of you have already seen this, but for those of you who haven't it's worth it. So take a 5 minute break from work and watch this(disregard the first 10 seconds or so).

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/oprah-mauritania/631581530/?icid=VIDLRVENT05

Packing for 2 years?!?

2009-03-03T18:58:00.005-05:00

So I've started the process of gathering everything I will need (want) to take with me to the sandbox. I've packed for some long trips - but nothing like this. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if I was already an 'outdoorsy' kinda gal, but since I'm not I basically have to start from scratch. I haven't owned a sleeping bag since middle school - I have never owned a tent - and I definately have never had a need for a headlamp - until now. As I was ordereing my REI Bug Hut 2 (yes, it's an upgrade from the Bug Hut 1) and other things from a website made for people like me, I strangely felt like I was preparing to spend two years in the woods, then I realized I was just preparing to spend two years in the desert, close enough. So in case you were interested, curious or just down right nosy, I thought I'd share a few of the items that I'll be stuffing into my suitcases - all of which I'm sure I'll covet once I actually get over there. Next item on my list is an internal frame backpack (just learned that term). Goal: To pack as much as I can and still be able to wear the backpack without tipping over backwards. My little LED headlamp to wear in the pitch dark when I'm trying to locate the ladies room - or just the hole in the ground. Pray for a western toilet.

Mummy style summer sleepsack. I've heard the sheets I'll be provided can be compared to sandpaper so this will be something comfy to zip up in. Here she is - the REI Bug Hut 2 (aka - my little oasis so those pesky little mesquitos don't hurt me while I sleep).

Skirts! I found them. Laugh all you want, but these things are comfy, I may never shave my legs again - you definately can't see them with these things on. I'm really glad that Boho Chic is "in" according to some teenybopper website. I'm sure the Mauritanians are thrilled.

Solar charger to the rescue! Back to the basics. Leave it outside all day to charge in the sun, bring it in at night and plug my ipod, cell phone or digital camera to charge. Magic.

Mail, Email and Telephone.

2009-02-23T14:07:00.003-05:00

Many of you have asked (and I'm glad you have) about what the best ways to communicate with me will be while I'm away. My Peace Corps Mauritania Welcome Book explains it pretty well so I thought I'd share...here you go....

Mail
Few countries in the world offer the level of mail service we consider normal in the United States. If you come here expecting U.S. standards, you will be in for a lot of frustration. Mail takes a minimum of two weeks to arrive in Mauritania. Some mail may simply not arrive, and some letters may arrive pre-opened or with clipped edges because someone has tried to see if any money was inside (this is rare, but it does happen). Although we do not want to sound too discouraging, communication can become a very sensitive issue when one is thousands of miles from family and friends. We think it is best to forewarn you about the reality of mail service in this part of the world. Advise your family and friends to number their letters and to write “West Africa,” “Airmail,” and “Par Avion”on the envelopes. Despite the potential delays, we strongly encourage you to write to your family regularly (perhaps weekly or biweekly) and to number your letters. Family members typically become worried when they do not hear from you, so advise them that mail is sporadic and that they should not worry if they do not receive your letters regularly. Sending letters and packages by airmail is always quicker and more reliable than surface mail (usually sent by boat), which has been known to show up years later!

Telephones
While local telephone service is becoming more widely available inside Mauritania, it is still a bit unreliable. Generally, longdistance service to Europe and North America is good but expensive. You, your family, and friends should be prepared to rely mostly on letters and e-mail for communication. More and more professional Mauritanians are using cellular phones, especially in the capital and larger towns, and they all subscribe to one of the two cellular companies in the country. It is highly unlikely that a cellular plan bought in the United States will cover Mauritania and the surrounding region, with or without roaming charges. Therefore, we strongly discourage you from bringing your phone along. You may want to purchase a cellphone once you are in-country. One advantage you have here is that it costs you nothing to receive a call on your cellphone (local or international).

Computer, Internet, and E-mail Access
E-mail is available in Nouakchott and in all regional capitals. Because you will probably have limited access (Volunteers average a visit to the capital once every month), one option is
to arrange for Volunteer friends posted in sites with Internet access to print out and send you your e-mail. Most Volunteers set up a Yahoo, gMail, or Hotmail account before leaving home, giving the e-mail address to friends and family. There is access to the Internet in Mauritania through commercial outlets in Nouakchott and most regional capitals. Some governmental organizations in the regional capitals may also have Internet access and usually are willing to let Volunteers check their e-mail. DSL Internet service is currently available in two of Peace Corps/Mauritania’s 10 regional satellite offices. It is expected that high-speed Internet service will continue to expand to the regional capitals.

PS. Please write me! I promise to write you back! When I was on Semester at Sea one of the things that made me the happiest was receiving mail from home. My mom's third-grade class sent me 24 homemade Valentines cards while I was onboard ship and I cried I was so happy when I got them. You'd be surprised at how much letters or cards mean when you can't come home.

A Letter from "W" and Answers to Some of Your Questions

2009-02-12T18:40:00.005-05:00

So this is funny...there must not be many Republicans who choose to go into the Peace Corps - here's why I believe this. My invitation packet was filled with too many forms to count, handbooks (my favorite is one called "A Few MINOR Adjustments"....minor?), and instructions for the next 4 months. Also included in the packet was a nice little letter on stationary that included the words "The White House" and a good old personal electronic signature from former President George W. Bush. I didn't think much about it, just chalking it up to the hectic times that abound during a transition of power in governments and not enough time to take care of small items such as switching out these letters so they are from President Obama, but then I noticed the date of the letter.....July 18, 2001. It almost felt like there hadn't been a Republican to serve as a volunteer since 2001 and when I got invited they had to search to the bottom of their files to pull this out and send it to me to make me feel officially congratulated. Probably not funny to most of you....but I got a little chuckle out of it. So thanks George for the encouragement, your letter from 2001 was inspiring then and still is today.

Many of you have asked some very similar questions about the Peace Corps so here's my first attempt to answer some of them.

1. When will you get to Mauritania? I have orientation somewhere in the US, yet to be determined on June 14-15. During this orientation I will meet up with all of the other volunteers going to Mauritania, get my shots and malaria pills, fill out more forms and then fly to Mauritania on June 16th. From June 16-August 20 I will be training with everyone in the city of Rosso, located near the Senegal border to the South. After training I will be placed somewhere else, won't know that until I'm actually over there.

2. What will you be doing as a volunteer? My primary job will be to teach English to secondary level students (middle and highschool) and help strengthen links between the schools and parental involvement through extracurricular activities. During the school breaks I will be responsible for creating my own "secondary" project based on the needs of the community where I'm placed. Some examples are girl mentoring programs, english clubs, library development, etc.

3. What will you wear? Well, given that this is a Muslim country "conservative" is the key word here. My packing list provided me with suggestions and it included ankle-length skirts (I have no idea where those are sold), no tank tops (my shoulders must be covered) and then some general normal clothing. Having clothes made over there is very inexpensive so I probably won't take that many clothes and just have things made over there.

4. Where will you live? I will live with a host family most likely as it's highly encouraged for female volunteers. As to what amenities I will have, I just don't know at this point. I could be placed in a larger city where I would have electricity and running water, or I could be in a very rural village where neither of those luxuries exist. I might have a toilet or I might just have a hole in the ground. It's a crapshoot.

5. Will you have internet? This has been the #1 question. I will. How often I don't know. From what I can gather after following several blogs of PCV currently overseas, it looks like I will be able to update the blog and check email about once a month. It could be better or it could be worse, I just won't know until I get over there.

"Congratulations! You've been invited to serve...."

2009-02-09T21:44:00.000-05:00

INVITED!! Well it finally happened….I’ve been invited to serve in the Peace Corps! After 8 months of filling out endless amounts of forms, having seven viles of blood drawn, a few shots, and countless hours of waiting, I received a packet in the mail on Saturday, February 7, 2009 that will forever change my life.

I actually knew the Peace Corps had mailed the invitation packet on February 2nd, which caused me to speed home every night after work to check the mailbox. On Saturday the invitation finally arrived and I swear I would have kissed the mailman if he’d been around. I jumped in my car to head straight to Harrodsburg to share the news with my family and as soon as I ripped open the packet I saw the words…. “Congratulations! You have been invited to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Mauritania.” “Where the hell is that” was my first reaction (and many of yours)…..second reaction was to call home.

My brother answered the phone and upon sharing the news he immediately found our family atlas and searched for this unknown country I was about to move to for 27 months. He went on to open our encyclopedia from 10 years ago only to find 1 page dedicated to Mauritania. Within 2 minutes he had determined that over half the land in Mauritania is actually the Sahara desert and it is bordered by Morocco and Algeria to the North, Senegal to the South, Mali to the East and the Atlantic Ocean to the West. Honestly I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry so I’m pretty sure I did both on the drive home.

Over the next four months I’ll be sharing more details as I prepare to leave Kentucky for a few short years. If you’re interested in keeping up with me as I make this journey across the pond bookmark this blog and come along with me.

My hope is that this blog will be an opportunity to share my candid experiences, frustrations, joys, ups, downs, twists and turns as I figure out how to pack 2 years worth of clothes, toiletries, necessities, and food in 2 suitcases and then figure out how to make a home in a country thousands of miles away from my family and friends. For now I’m headed to Barnes & Noble to buy some French and Arabic conversation books…..boy I wish I would have listened more in Ms. Dean’s class.

Quick Facts

· Program/Assignment: English teacher to secondary level students
· Dates of Service: June 14, 2009 – August 19, 2011
· Training: June 16-August 20, 2009 in Rosso, Mauritania
· Official country name is The Islamic Republic of Mauritania
· Capital is Nouakchott
· 27th largest country in the world
· Independent from France in 1960
· Climate is mostly hot, dry and dusty
· Population is about 3.3 million people
· 100% Muslim, mostly Sunnis
· Diamonds and gold are a natural resource (Hat tip to Mills for this one!)
· Arabic and French are the official and national languages
· Same time zone as London – 5 hours ahead of Kentucky time (Thanks Kenny!)
· Potential health risks…well there are several (Thank you Chris Bostick)

Stay tuned….more to come!

(PS: for those of you who are just finding out through this blog, I apologize. I wish I could have told everyone face to face, but it just hasn't been possible and I really didn't want to share until I knew I had been invited. Hope you'll forgive me!)