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Big Week


12 May 2010

So this is a big week for me. I moved out of my training village, I took my last language test (unless I failed), and I get “sworn in” on Friday (still pending I passed my language test).  I will have you note that ADRIEN ALSOBROOK told me that it might be a good idea for me to fail.  That way I could stay in training for an extra week and then only have to be in the real bush for one less week of the “hot “season.   She has a good point.  After getting sworn-in, I’ll actually move to the bush (Saare Boyli) on 19 May, which is in the midst of the hot season.  Hot here can mean somewhere in the 130s (apparently).  I’ve been hot for weeks, so I don’t know how it could get any hotter.  Also, someone asked me what was the thing I missed most in America (excluding family and friends), and I’m going to have to say “ice.”  So, if any of ya’ll could figure out a way to FedEx me some ice, I’d love you forever. 


Saying goodbye to my training family was sad.  I will miss them, especially watching my brother belt out “My Heart Will Go On.”  He may think everything I do is hilarious, but nothing will compare to a grown man putting his heart and soul into our favorite song from Titanic.  Celion Dion has been missing from our lives for about 10 years now, but here in Senegal she has an eternal fanclub. 

Speaking of grown men, there is a man who works for Peace Corps (a Senegalese man) who I would like to showcase in my blog.  His name is Dowda, and here is what a typical conversation looks like between us.  Mind you, his is in broken English, which makes it even more awkward:
Dowda: Hey Sukaabe! (sukaabe means “child” in Pulaar)
Me: Hey Dowda (in a not-excited tone of voice)
Dowda:  Did you know you’re the youngest volunteer in Peace Corps?
Me:  Um…no, Dowda, I don’t think I am.  Both my roommates are younger than me.
Dowda: Does your mom know you’re in Africa?
Me:  Well, yeah, I’m pretty sure she does. I talk to her every week.
Dowda: Your mom let you come to Africa? But you are so young.
Me: Yeah, I keep hearing that.
Dowda: You need to eat two lunches and dinners so that you can grow to become a strong adult.
Me: Thanks, Dowda, I will definitely try to do that.
Also keep in mind that this conversation happens EVERY time he sees me, which is at least 3 times a day.

Also, it’s mango season here.   Jealous?  They are the best tasting, best looking mangos I have ever seen…kind of makes up for the no-toilet paper, 120 degree heat thing.

Comments

  1. Adrien AlsobrookMay 12, 2010 at 12:40 PM

    Leave me out of this, daughter! I am only guilty of trying to protect my darling!
    I love you!
    Mom

    ReplyDelete
  2. KateMay 14, 2010 at 9:43 AM

    lol you know how i love mango juice. does laura have a blog, too? this is too much fun keeping up with your adventures!

    ReplyDelete

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