After three weeks of being at site, the real world has begun to hit. Keep in mind that each Peace Corps representative has a completely different site with a completely different story. A good majority of my fellow volunteer companions are living in conditions very different from mine: very small communities (sometimes 300 people), pooping in cockroach-ridden latrines, bathing with 1L of water per day (just think: one nalgene full per day. Thats IT.) because their town only gets water every 2 weeks, hours away from urban life, or even without cell-phone service (*gasp* How can they ever survive?!). I, on the other hand, have somehow wound up in a tourist-ridden city (of a zone of over 50,000 people), in a house with running water, sewage system, and access to internet and phone service. But each has their ups and downs- we all carry burdens of the job, but in different ways.
For these first three months, we as PCVs spend our time gathering information in order to prepare our Community Diagnostic. Essentially, a Community Diagnostic is a really long compiled report about our specific community- the culture, the people, the problems, the instituations, the workings of it... everything! In order for us to do beneficial, sustainable projects we need to first make sure we understand what the community needs. This includes doing interviews, surveys (with over 100 people), meetings, collaborations-- anything we can think of in order to learn about the people's needs here. At the end of the 3 months we have to present our Diagnostic to our entire community and to the PC staff. Quite a load! Yes, it is a lot of work, but at the same time I really appreciate that they make us do these because it allows us to understand our community more before we begin working with them, which is essential. Since I am the first PCV to ever step her little foot into Nazca, I am the first to find out all of this information for the volunteers to follow after I leave. It sure is never boring!
These last three weeks have been intense, exciting, scary, fun, frustrating, challenging, and overall a good start to the rest of my life here in Nazca for the next few years. The thing about working in a big city here in Peru is that in order to make progress I have to make myself known by all the bigwigs. I need the town's recognition, respect, and support in order for me to move forward with projects. SO basically I have spent my first three weeks meeting as many higher-ups as I can to let them in on what I am doing. Also, speaking with these different people allows me to learn a lot more about the runnings of the city- how things function, who does what, what problems are there. There are a lot of things for a person to learn about a new city. My goal is to try to understand as much as I possibly can so that I can best approach the projects I have in mind. So far I have been in working with: the mayor of the province of Nazca, the Nazca water-systems company (se llama EMAPAVIGSSA), the Office of Environmental Health in the Hospital, the Red Cross, the Office of Environmental Health in the Municipality, the Ministry of Women and Social Development, several local reach-out groups (Vaso de Leche y Comedor Popular), the director of the school-systems of Nazca, Rotary Club International, the Madre of the Catholic Church (who does a lot of outreach), and several directors of various schools and pueblos outside of the city. As much information I begin to learn, I feel like there is so much more to know. This is the beginning base of my Diagnostic. A little over two-months more and hopefully I will have a better grasp on things... but between you and me- I think I'm going to need a lot more than 3 months to understand this community. It's a whole new world here. A whole new world.
Por eso, every day is a new surprise of things to come.
It's kind of funny: since I am still learning Spanish, I sometimes don't understand what is going on... so when I trust the person I am working with I kind of just go along with it... and honestly, those are the times where the coolest stuff happens! It usually happens when I'm working with some business man and he mumbles something to me in Spanish really fast (that I don't understand) and then makes a phone call and then something happens-- whether it be jumping into the seat of a garbage truck to see how the garbage system works, being taken in a Municipality vehicle to the middle of nowhere to witness where they burn all their trash, being herded into the middle of a huge crowd to watch a Peruvian dance competition for 2 hours, taxi ride to a nearby town on the beach for an event on wind energy in Peru, climbing to the top of a really high hill so we can inspect a certain well-water system, or even one time I wound up at a Nazquenian hand-crafted pottery event. The opportunities are limitless for random lost-in-translation moments... I wonder what is to come!
As for now, I hear some Peruvian music blaring through the window from the main plaza so I am going to see what all the noise is about. *10 Soles says there's a school-wide dance going on!
*side note: Nuevo Sol is their currency here! 3 soles=1 dollar. (a.k.a. I bet you'll owe me $3)
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Week 1 of Nasca-ness
So after 10 weeks of intense training and Peruvian adventures, I finally got sworn-in as una voluntaria del Cuerpo de Paz. A big moment for sure, as on the horizon all we can see is the mysterious unknown. No more classes, no more instructors, no more speaking English, no more friends close at hand, no more pre-made schedules. We were then at that moment left to our own devices for the next few years. We are essentially dropped off at site and are left to our own devices to not only survive, but to inspire positive change and health within the community. Honestly, what I have been going through here at site for this first week of service has been so intense and different, no amount of training could have ever prepared me for what I was about to jump into. It was as if I jumped into the middle of the ocean accompanied with only a fun-noodle and was expected to survive. Well, fortunately for me-- I love to swim.
Nasca, Peru. The home to many world-famous sites including the Nasca Lines, El Cerro Blanco (the biggest sand dune in South America), Los Aqueductos (aqueducts created by pre-Incan civilizations- some that still function), various cemeteries with mummified bodies, and now ME!
I thought that by living in Peru for 11 weeks already that I would be accustomed to the culture here... well was I wrong! Moving here I have encountered an entire new life. There are a lot of changes I have been experiencing. I will share a few with you...
-I began a new diet. It's called "the runs". I don't even have to do anything, just sit on the toilet and boombam all the food I ate has magically gone through me! It's not on the market yet but if you'd like to begin this diet I'll let you try some of the water here and you'll be on "the runs" in no time!
-I have also changed perfumes. Instead of dousing myself religiously with bug repellent, I now spend a good portion of the morning applying the Peace Corps provided sunblock all over. The reason? Well, let's just say I completely understand where the saying "it's hot as hell" comes from. I'm in the desert!
-The parties I have been experiencing here are surely like no other. For example, the other day I went to a party for a 97 year old woman complete with her being spoon-fed papaya by her daughter, a table full of still living friends and family (that had to yell at each other so the other person could hear), tea cups, and me........ HAHAHA! A little different than the typical college party I guess. I'll find some friends here soon I'm sure...
-Also, I got a name change. I am "Catalina" here. It's much easier than the awkward language sessions I could continuously have with how to pronounce my actual name... every single time I met someone. Si entonces for simplicity's sake: Catalina.
-I've been getting a lot of action here in the kissing department. Every single time there is a greeting or departure... there is kissing. So essentially the barriers are automatically broken down at an initial meeting because, well, you just kissed them! Quite an ice-breaker I'd say.
-I have a new nightly fashion. Compliments of UGA Student Learning Center (it's always going to be the SLC for me... givin' a holler out there to my dawgs!) these green ear plugs have gotten me far. They allow me to fall asleep despite the nightly war of dogs outside my window and they allow me to sleep past 4am because of the rooster concerts that go on every single morning outside my window. Thanks SLC!
-The other day I turned on the TV and there was my face. The truth is that not a lot goes on here thats exciting so when something happens (it could be anything!) their going to talk about it. just so happens that I am that "something" right now.
-I've picked up a new hobby! Making speeches. hahaha. Essentially I meet new people every single day and they are all curious about what I am doing here and who I am so I give them my speech. I must say, after the 100th one I think I've been able to do it backwards in my sleep!
-And this is always the question that follows it: "Are you single?" ...And then I say "yes" and then they say that I will definitely end up staying here longer than 2 years because I'm going to meet un Peruano. (this exact convo happens like 5 times a day) At first I felt uncomfortable when people always asked me that because in the States we don't commonly speak about relationships until a little later in conversations. However, I have grown to understand that Peruvians love their relationship drama and that their women have babies so I have now just grown to expect this convo.
-I got my desk space in the Municipality. Never had an "office" before! Right next to a window so thats nice too.
-My typical emotion here is a mix of confused/lost/uncomfortable... but you learn how to accept that and move on. A sense of humor is essential for this job. It's a whole new culture and a whole new place that I do not know... I am positive I unknowingly do probably 20 things per day that is not typical of this culture- but that is just how it is. In time I will understand more. But for now, laughing at my blunders is the only way to stay sane.
There is so much more to say about my job here, about the culture, and various thoughts. Every day is a new battle and a new adventure. This is just the beginning. Stay tuned!
Nasca, Peru. The home to many world-famous sites including the Nasca Lines, El Cerro Blanco (the biggest sand dune in South America), Los Aqueductos (aqueducts created by pre-Incan civilizations- some that still function), various cemeteries with mummified bodies, and now ME!
I thought that by living in Peru for 11 weeks already that I would be accustomed to the culture here... well was I wrong! Moving here I have encountered an entire new life. There are a lot of changes I have been experiencing. I will share a few with you...
-I began a new diet. It's called "the runs". I don't even have to do anything, just sit on the toilet and boombam all the food I ate has magically gone through me! It's not on the market yet but if you'd like to begin this diet I'll let you try some of the water here and you'll be on "the runs" in no time!
-I have also changed perfumes. Instead of dousing myself religiously with bug repellent, I now spend a good portion of the morning applying the Peace Corps provided sunblock all over. The reason? Well, let's just say I completely understand where the saying "it's hot as hell" comes from. I'm in the desert!
-The parties I have been experiencing here are surely like no other. For example, the other day I went to a party for a 97 year old woman complete with her being spoon-fed papaya by her daughter, a table full of still living friends and family (that had to yell at each other so the other person could hear), tea cups, and me........ HAHAHA! A little different than the typical college party I guess. I'll find some friends here soon I'm sure...
-Also, I got a name change. I am "Catalina" here. It's much easier than the awkward language sessions I could continuously have with how to pronounce my actual name... every single time I met someone. Si entonces for simplicity's sake: Catalina.
-I've been getting a lot of action here in the kissing department. Every single time there is a greeting or departure... there is kissing. So essentially the barriers are automatically broken down at an initial meeting because, well, you just kissed them! Quite an ice-breaker I'd say.
-I have a new nightly fashion. Compliments of UGA Student Learning Center (it's always going to be the SLC for me... givin' a holler out there to my dawgs!) these green ear plugs have gotten me far. They allow me to fall asleep despite the nightly war of dogs outside my window and they allow me to sleep past 4am because of the rooster concerts that go on every single morning outside my window. Thanks SLC!
-The other day I turned on the TV and there was my face. The truth is that not a lot goes on here thats exciting so when something happens (it could be anything!) their going to talk about it. just so happens that I am that "something" right now.
-I've picked up a new hobby! Making speeches. hahaha. Essentially I meet new people every single day and they are all curious about what I am doing here and who I am so I give them my speech. I must say, after the 100th one I think I've been able to do it backwards in my sleep!
-And this is always the question that follows it: "Are you single?" ...And then I say "yes" and then they say that I will definitely end up staying here longer than 2 years because I'm going to meet un Peruano. (this exact convo happens like 5 times a day) At first I felt uncomfortable when people always asked me that because in the States we don't commonly speak about relationships until a little later in conversations. However, I have grown to understand that Peruvians love their relationship drama and that their women have babies so I have now just grown to expect this convo.
-I got my desk space in the Municipality. Never had an "office" before! Right next to a window so thats nice too.
-My typical emotion here is a mix of confused/lost/uncomfortable... but you learn how to accept that and move on. A sense of humor is essential for this job. It's a whole new culture and a whole new place that I do not know... I am positive I unknowingly do probably 20 things per day that is not typical of this culture- but that is just how it is. In time I will understand more. But for now, laughing at my blunders is the only way to stay sane.
There is so much more to say about my job here, about the culture, and various thoughts. Every day is a new battle and a new adventure. This is just the beginning. Stay tuned!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The gringa is here!
Finally, after 7 weeks of training, we were set loose upon our sites. (We were all given three to four days to explore our future sites, meet our new host families, and get acquainted with the town before we completed our last two weeks of training.) Each volunteer is given a different pueblo or town throughout Peru (mostly in districts along the Western coast). My site is Nazca. Yes, as in the Nazca Lines! I live about 10 minutes from them, and with the tour planes flying overhead every day. Nazca is also the site of many pre-Incan archeological sites... which I love. Also home of the Cerro Blanco, which is the biggest sand dune in all of South America. Oh yeah, sand dune- did I mention that Nazca is in the center of the desert..? Yeah. Summer temps averaging over 100 deg F. A lil toasty. BUT- that makes for perfect climate for some awesome foods. Mangos, grapes (therefore wine and Pisco), oranges, pecans, corn, papas to name a few. I am the very first volunteer to this site, so everything is new and ground-breaking... just how I like it.
Most volunteers are placed in a pueblo or city ranging from around 300-3,000 people. I, on the other hand, for some reason or another have been assigned a city with 30,000 people (and covering a district with about 70,000 people). Big task. So where do I begin? Well, first thing is to meet as many of the community leaders as possible to get the word out there of who I am and what I'm doing. I want as many big guns on my side as possible (but not real guns! we're PEACE corps. wink) So my socio comunitario (the person I will be working with a lot on my various projects) Flor made sure I not waste time and set up appointments for me right away. After my morning bucket bath and my 3-day old crunchy bread, Flor came to come pick me up. We visited the school of which she is the director. I oh-so-naively thought that I was just going there to see where she works. Little did I know, I was soon greeting teacher after teacher in the office, explaining to them all what I would be doing in their town for 2 years and answering every question under the sun. Furthermore, Flor soon began taking me to every single classroom where I had to stand in front of the classes and introduce myself to all of the students. Four hundred and fifty of them. With my broken-Spanish and no preparation, mind you. Being an RA in college led me to feel pretty comfortable to speaking in front of crowds, but nothing could have prepared me for something like that! Well, I somehow got through it and felt so good that I had accomplished it. So, what was next? Flor said she was going to take me to the Municipality. Alright, I said, I can handle that meeting a few workers in there.
After meeting the Director of the Municipality and several other key figures, I found myself sitting really close face to face, knees touching with some man. I just kind of took it as normal because here there's often not much “personal space boundaries”... that is until he whipped out two voice recorders. Turned out he was wanting to interview me for the radio show. Right there on the spot! I only had time to internally freak out, come to acceptance of this, and recollect myself all in a matter of 20 seconds before he began recording. I used every single ounce of my power to compose myself at that moment. Adrenaline rushing to the max, still to this moment I don't remember a single thing that he asked me, or what I said. All I know was that I could feel the beads of sweat on my face from nervousness and that I had never spoken better Spanish than at that moment in my entire life. It's amazing what a little pressure can do. Okay, so I somehow get through 10 minutes of that and afterwards I feel like a champ. Like I had just beat a long-time opponent in a well-fought soccer match. Grateful that I did not faint afterwards, I cheerfully asked Flor what was next, assuming that nothing could come close to being more difficult than that.
“Vamos a conocer el elcalde.” “El alcalde?!?!” We were on our way to meet the mayor of the city. By this time a few other leaders in the community had joined us on the mission to speak with the mayor. We had to get as much Umph as we could to get the mayor on our side to agree and succeed with accepting me into the community. This was a big deal. This is the man of the city. For quick example, there were two guards outside the restaurant we were in making sure that the crowd of people outside didn't come in and disturb us. Yeah. So after 20 minutes of the leaders and I speaking of my job as a member of Cuerpo de Paz, he finally accepted my presence there and even offered me an office in the Municipality building! Wow, success. At that moment I felt as if anything else I did from then on would be a piece of cake. That was yet another huge moment in my acceptance into the community and I somehow swung through it with success... nothing could possibly be harder. But sister, was I wrong.
The most intense part of this day didn't happen until the 7:00pm that night... on the Karibena news. That's right, the news. They wanted to interview me live on their district news channel 15. I seriously thought they were kidding at first when they told me this. Not until I got to the news station and saw the machines, cameras, and setup did I really believe what I was doing. I sweated buckets, made mistakes and was looking into the wrong camera half the time, but in the end it all worked out really well. By 8pm that night, (the first day of me being there in their town) the entire town knew me.
After all was said and done that day, I fell onto my bed with the biggest smile on my face. If I could get through that day, one of the most challenging days of my life, I could get through anything. And that is where I stand.
Most volunteers are placed in a pueblo or city ranging from around 300-3,000 people. I, on the other hand, for some reason or another have been assigned a city with 30,000 people (and covering a district with about 70,000 people). Big task. So where do I begin? Well, first thing is to meet as many of the community leaders as possible to get the word out there of who I am and what I'm doing. I want as many big guns on my side as possible (but not real guns! we're PEACE corps. wink) So my socio comunitario (the person I will be working with a lot on my various projects) Flor made sure I not waste time and set up appointments for me right away. After my morning bucket bath and my 3-day old crunchy bread, Flor came to come pick me up. We visited the school of which she is the director. I oh-so-naively thought that I was just going there to see where she works. Little did I know, I was soon greeting teacher after teacher in the office, explaining to them all what I would be doing in their town for 2 years and answering every question under the sun. Furthermore, Flor soon began taking me to every single classroom where I had to stand in front of the classes and introduce myself to all of the students. Four hundred and fifty of them. With my broken-Spanish and no preparation, mind you. Being an RA in college led me to feel pretty comfortable to speaking in front of crowds, but nothing could have prepared me for something like that! Well, I somehow got through it and felt so good that I had accomplished it. So, what was next? Flor said she was going to take me to the Municipality. Alright, I said, I can handle that meeting a few workers in there.
After meeting the Director of the Municipality and several other key figures, I found myself sitting really close face to face, knees touching with some man. I just kind of took it as normal because here there's often not much “personal space boundaries”... that is until he whipped out two voice recorders. Turned out he was wanting to interview me for the radio show. Right there on the spot! I only had time to internally freak out, come to acceptance of this, and recollect myself all in a matter of 20 seconds before he began recording. I used every single ounce of my power to compose myself at that moment. Adrenaline rushing to the max, still to this moment I don't remember a single thing that he asked me, or what I said. All I know was that I could feel the beads of sweat on my face from nervousness and that I had never spoken better Spanish than at that moment in my entire life. It's amazing what a little pressure can do. Okay, so I somehow get through 10 minutes of that and afterwards I feel like a champ. Like I had just beat a long-time opponent in a well-fought soccer match. Grateful that I did not faint afterwards, I cheerfully asked Flor what was next, assuming that nothing could come close to being more difficult than that.
“Vamos a conocer el elcalde.” “El alcalde?!?!” We were on our way to meet the mayor of the city. By this time a few other leaders in the community had joined us on the mission to speak with the mayor. We had to get as much Umph as we could to get the mayor on our side to agree and succeed with accepting me into the community. This was a big deal. This is the man of the city. For quick example, there were two guards outside the restaurant we were in making sure that the crowd of people outside didn't come in and disturb us. Yeah. So after 20 minutes of the leaders and I speaking of my job as a member of Cuerpo de Paz, he finally accepted my presence there and even offered me an office in the Municipality building! Wow, success. At that moment I felt as if anything else I did from then on would be a piece of cake. That was yet another huge moment in my acceptance into the community and I somehow swung through it with success... nothing could possibly be harder. But sister, was I wrong.
The most intense part of this day didn't happen until the 7:00pm that night... on the Karibena news. That's right, the news. They wanted to interview me live on their district news channel 15. I seriously thought they were kidding at first when they told me this. Not until I got to the news station and saw the machines, cameras, and setup did I really believe what I was doing. I sweated buckets, made mistakes and was looking into the wrong camera half the time, but in the end it all worked out really well. By 8pm that night, (the first day of me being there in their town) the entire town knew me.
After all was said and done that day, I fell onto my bed with the biggest smile on my face. If I could get through that day, one of the most challenging days of my life, I could get through anything. And that is where I stand.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
La vida de una aspirante
Catalina, que estas haciendo?! ...Buen pregunta.
Caitlin, what are you doing?! ...Good question.
Well, a lot!
Besides eloquently fumbling about with my Spanish, becoming steadily accustomed with a whole new culture, enjoying the local dance scenes, and thoroughly enjoying Peruvian delicacies such as cow hearts and sheep stomach, I have been going through the Peace Corps Pre-Service Training. These first 10 weeks to prepare us for our near future missions. Every Lunes-Viernes from 8AM-5PM I venture to the Peace Corps Center where we are being intensely trained on a variety of different subjects.
For 2-4 hours a day we have language training where we... learn the language. ;) Los profesores son increible. They are Peruvian, but are very well educated and know English as well. My teacher for the Intermediano Medio group is Karina. She studied to be a lawyer here in Peru then went to the States to work where she soon realized she loved to teach! She somehow found her way back through school to become a teacher and is now doing great. We have a lot of interactive learning with games, exercises, songs, worksheets, acting out, stories... each of which focuses on a certain aspect of vocabulario or grammar what we are learning at the time. I love it. Not only do we learn the basics of how to communicate, but we are also learning job-specific language (i.e. water systems vocabulary), which will come in handy when I'm trying to explain to an entire town of adults how to construct a latrine system..
On top of language learning, we learn a lot of safety and security aspects of being here in Peru. We cover it all- from how to safely take a taxi, venture around town, and determine fraud money to more serious subjects of STI's and instances of assault. They want to prepare us as much as possible for the unknown. We are in a whole new world over here where we are the aliens, and therefore often the targets. The more informed we are on this information, the better prepared we will be.
Another portion of the information that we learn is on the Peruvian culture. They're culture here is very different. The food, how to drink, how to greet each other, how to catch a taxi, how to be friends with people, how to say no, how share everything, what to wear... it's so interesting to learn! There are some things that I like very much and some things that definitely take some getting used to. One thing I really like is the customary greeting. Everyone here hugs (abrazos) and kisses(besos) on the cheek when they greet and when they say goodbye. I must get 100 besos a day... it's awesome! Jajaja. It's such an open and kind way of welcoming someone's presence. I feel it makes people closer just simply by breaking down that initial barrier. Well, we've already hugged and kissed upon meeting the first time... I guess we're friends now! :D Also, another thing I really appreciate/like/enjoy is the sharing of everything. In a previous blog I explained the “Invitame” rule where basically any food that someone has is automatically everyone's tambien. Again, another kind and open gesture.
One of the cultural traditions that I will have a more difficult time with is the separation of genders. What it boils down to basically is that in the Peruvian culture, women and men simply are not friends. They are either dating or do not converse in any way. Gestures even as simple as eating ice cream together or even TALKING between men and women is seen as dating the other person. If they show any interest at all, it is taken as they want something more. It may sound extreme, but I'm not even stretching it. Sometimes in bigger cities women and men can be friends, but elsewhere there is no such thing. I can see this being a challenge for us volunteers in the near future as we are used to having a wide variety of friends of both genders.
In addition to all the culture mind-blowing adventures we are preparing for, we spend a large portion of our time preparing for the work I came here to do: agua y saneamiento (water and sanitation). This is probably my favorite part of the learning. We have learned a variety of different things: all about water pump systems, how to construct various gray water systems, microrellenas (mini landfills), biodigesters, lumbriculturas (I forget the word in english, but essentially breaking down organic matter by using worms to assist in the process), creating successful compost, slow trickle sand filters, SODIS sun decontamination of water, specific chlorination techniques, and all the in's and out's of caca and it's negative effects on humans. We will soon be learning to build latrine systems which I am really excited about. Our grupo (consisting of about 20 young adults ages 22-28, with backgrounds as varying as engineering, sociology, environmeantal management, microbiology, international affairs, and even religion to name a few) has also been traveling to various water systems around this area to get a view about what different systems look like. It's very eye-opening to say the least. Some of these systems you just look at with mouth wide-open in disbelief that it is actually exists and that it's acceptable.
Overall, I have learned more in these last 5 weeks than I have ever learned in that time-span. Probably because this stuff is essential for my survival for the next 2 years. Also, it helps learning in a room with 19 other highly motivated individuals. Finally I'm not the only one asking questions and making the class stay overtime just to understand the subject better. It also makes group projects run a lot smoother and in class competitions a lot more interesting. We have such an amazing group of people. We each have so much to share and it's just such a blast when we are together. Everyone just has a certain life to them that makes every encounter so exciting. I sure am going to miss everyone once we all split off to our sites. After spending at LEAST 8 hours with each other every single day, it's going to be a definite challenge not being able to see anyone very often.
Needless to say, I go to bed exhausted every night; however, it's one of those tired playful puppy exhaustion's... one of the best kinds. :)
Also, I have big news! I found my site assignment today. I will be living for the next 2 years in............. (drum roll please!)
Nazca, Ica, Peru
My next blog will be explaining more about this setup so stay tuned. There´s a lot to explain. Beginning tomorrow I will be out of town on some work-related training, so I will write when I can!
I hope all is well in the States! Whenever you think of it, please inform me of news thats going on because we don´t get newspapers here and I sparingly get internet access. Also, I miss the comics section.. so send the good ones! ;) Until next time...
Caitlin, what are you doing?! ...Good question.
Well, a lot!
Besides eloquently fumbling about with my Spanish, becoming steadily accustomed with a whole new culture, enjoying the local dance scenes, and thoroughly enjoying Peruvian delicacies such as cow hearts and sheep stomach, I have been going through the Peace Corps Pre-Service Training. These first 10 weeks to prepare us for our near future missions. Every Lunes-Viernes from 8AM-5PM I venture to the Peace Corps Center where we are being intensely trained on a variety of different subjects.
For 2-4 hours a day we have language training where we... learn the language. ;) Los profesores son increible. They are Peruvian, but are very well educated and know English as well. My teacher for the Intermediano Medio group is Karina. She studied to be a lawyer here in Peru then went to the States to work where she soon realized she loved to teach! She somehow found her way back through school to become a teacher and is now doing great. We have a lot of interactive learning with games, exercises, songs, worksheets, acting out, stories... each of which focuses on a certain aspect of vocabulario or grammar what we are learning at the time. I love it. Not only do we learn the basics of how to communicate, but we are also learning job-specific language (i.e. water systems vocabulary), which will come in handy when I'm trying to explain to an entire town of adults how to construct a latrine system..
On top of language learning, we learn a lot of safety and security aspects of being here in Peru. We cover it all- from how to safely take a taxi, venture around town, and determine fraud money to more serious subjects of STI's and instances of assault. They want to prepare us as much as possible for the unknown. We are in a whole new world over here where we are the aliens, and therefore often the targets. The more informed we are on this information, the better prepared we will be.
Another portion of the information that we learn is on the Peruvian culture. They're culture here is very different. The food, how to drink, how to greet each other, how to catch a taxi, how to be friends with people, how to say no, how share everything, what to wear... it's so interesting to learn! There are some things that I like very much and some things that definitely take some getting used to. One thing I really like is the customary greeting. Everyone here hugs (abrazos) and kisses(besos) on the cheek when they greet and when they say goodbye. I must get 100 besos a day... it's awesome! Jajaja. It's such an open and kind way of welcoming someone's presence. I feel it makes people closer just simply by breaking down that initial barrier. Well, we've already hugged and kissed upon meeting the first time... I guess we're friends now! :D Also, another thing I really appreciate/like/enjoy is the sharing of everything. In a previous blog I explained the “Invitame” rule where basically any food that someone has is automatically everyone's tambien. Again, another kind and open gesture.
One of the cultural traditions that I will have a more difficult time with is the separation of genders. What it boils down to basically is that in the Peruvian culture, women and men simply are not friends. They are either dating or do not converse in any way. Gestures even as simple as eating ice cream together or even TALKING between men and women is seen as dating the other person. If they show any interest at all, it is taken as they want something more. It may sound extreme, but I'm not even stretching it. Sometimes in bigger cities women and men can be friends, but elsewhere there is no such thing. I can see this being a challenge for us volunteers in the near future as we are used to having a wide variety of friends of both genders.
In addition to all the culture mind-blowing adventures we are preparing for, we spend a large portion of our time preparing for the work I came here to do: agua y saneamiento (water and sanitation). This is probably my favorite part of the learning. We have learned a variety of different things: all about water pump systems, how to construct various gray water systems, microrellenas (mini landfills), biodigesters, lumbriculturas (I forget the word in english, but essentially breaking down organic matter by using worms to assist in the process), creating successful compost, slow trickle sand filters, SODIS sun decontamination of water, specific chlorination techniques, and all the in's and out's of caca and it's negative effects on humans. We will soon be learning to build latrine systems which I am really excited about. Our grupo (consisting of about 20 young adults ages 22-28, with backgrounds as varying as engineering, sociology, environmeantal management, microbiology, international affairs, and even religion to name a few) has also been traveling to various water systems around this area to get a view about what different systems look like. It's very eye-opening to say the least. Some of these systems you just look at with mouth wide-open in disbelief that it is actually exists and that it's acceptable.
Overall, I have learned more in these last 5 weeks than I have ever learned in that time-span. Probably because this stuff is essential for my survival for the next 2 years. Also, it helps learning in a room with 19 other highly motivated individuals. Finally I'm not the only one asking questions and making the class stay overtime just to understand the subject better. It also makes group projects run a lot smoother and in class competitions a lot more interesting. We have such an amazing group of people. We each have so much to share and it's just such a blast when we are together. Everyone just has a certain life to them that makes every encounter so exciting. I sure am going to miss everyone once we all split off to our sites. After spending at LEAST 8 hours with each other every single day, it's going to be a definite challenge not being able to see anyone very often.
Needless to say, I go to bed exhausted every night; however, it's one of those tired playful puppy exhaustion's... one of the best kinds. :)
Also, I have big news! I found my site assignment today. I will be living for the next 2 years in............. (drum roll please!)
Nazca, Ica, Peru
My next blog will be explaining more about this setup so stay tuned. There´s a lot to explain. Beginning tomorrow I will be out of town on some work-related training, so I will write when I can!
I hope all is well in the States! Whenever you think of it, please inform me of news thats going on because we don´t get newspapers here and I sparingly get internet access. Also, I miss the comics section.. so send the good ones! ;) Until next time...
Monday, October 18, 2010
Pensamientos en un combi (Thoughts on a busride)
“You don't want to hear the story
of my life, and anyway
I don't want to tell it, I want to listen
to the enormous waterfalls of the sun.
And anyway it's the same old story-
a few people just trying,
one way or another,
to survive.
… …
And nobody gets out of it, having to
swim through the fires to stay in
this world.”
-excerpt from “Dogfish” by Mary Oliver
(currently my favorite poem)
It can be undoubtedly stated that the United States of America is one of the most wealthiest countries in the entire world. Even our poorest of the poor most often can find means to have daily food, shelter, and in many cases even cell phones. Being such a wealthy country, our standard of living and our expectations for everything are extremely high. Our most common problems often stem from OVER consumption. [One of our biggest causes of death and disease is from obesity. We run into debt because what we have just isn't enough. Our environment, our Earth, is being torn apart because we want more “things”.] Our battle is often for perfection, not simply just management. We strive to thrive in the States. This is how life is for the wealthy. However, we are in the verrry distinct minority. The truth is, this is not the reality for the majority of the world. Most of the world strives to just merely SURVIVE. Most of the world instead doesn't even have the means to be able to over-consume in any way. Finding the means to merely get by is the key. For the most part, we as Americans never have to go through the pain and strife that most of the world does. We cannot even begin to relate to the struggles of daily life of these people. How things have gotten this way, I am not entirely sure. All I know is that is the reality.
These thoughts have been on my mind for quite some time now, but not until today was I swept away with passion on this subject. Today (Sabado, 10/16/2010) we took a field trip to Lima to check out a certain water treatment system and also view this place called Kallpa Wasi – Casa de Energia. It is the first and only plant of renewable energy in Peru. Please understand, when I say “plant” I mean tiny building with a backyard. This place had a compost area, a solar panel, a biodigestor area, a windmill (with 1.5 foot blades, might I add), and a small biodiesel converter. ...That's it. Honestly, it blew me away at first. Not because of the novelty, but rather the exact opposite. This was Peru's renewable energy plant? Simply paling in comparison to the US. [We must not forget to rewind time in American history to remember when our society was once there too. It is not until just recently when parts of our society have slowly started becoming more conscious of our actions. Of course that's not to say we're a sustainable country by any means, but we have enough wealth and stability to begin dabbling into it.] Through college I had studied and been exposed to an infinite amount of “green living” systems, ideas, and technology. I used to spend my free time reading articles, going to fairs, supporting local movements, recycling at football games, alternative transportation, putting on programs... all focused around “green conscious” living. But for the most part, none of that has any place here whatsoever. They are too busy just trying to get enough Soles ($) to survive the day. Why would they care about a windmill or solar panel if it does not directly assist them in survival today? How can they even begin to relate to that when they're cooking over a fire for their 7 kids in their tiny one-room thatched house? Here, it is completely irrelevant.
Again, most of the world is just striving to survive; the USA is a unique and very minute population in our world. Living in a developing country and seeing & experiencing a taste of what people go through has made this point all too obvious. The world is not always nice, the world is not clean, paved streets, happy faces, super-stores, fappuccinos, personal cars, fancy phones, clean water, green grass, more-or-less stable government, educated population, environmental activism. It is often difficult for us in the States to realize our wealth because wealth has been all we've ever known. Our expectations are set much higher and because of this, anything lower is often outrageous or unacceptable. Above anything else, I wish that more gratefulness would exist in heart of the American society. After all, it is just by pure luck that we have been born into the situations we have been born into. As I'm sitting there in the combi (bus) watching the Peru sites pass by, witnessing all the poverty, I can't help but think: What if I was dealt the hand of that Peruvian child?
of my life, and anyway
I don't want to tell it, I want to listen
to the enormous waterfalls of the sun.
And anyway it's the same old story-
a few people just trying,
one way or another,
to survive.
… …
And nobody gets out of it, having to
swim through the fires to stay in
this world.”
-excerpt from “Dogfish” by Mary Oliver
(currently my favorite poem)
It can be undoubtedly stated that the United States of America is one of the most wealthiest countries in the entire world. Even our poorest of the poor most often can find means to have daily food, shelter, and in many cases even cell phones. Being such a wealthy country, our standard of living and our expectations for everything are extremely high. Our most common problems often stem from OVER consumption. [One of our biggest causes of death and disease is from obesity. We run into debt because what we have just isn't enough. Our environment, our Earth, is being torn apart because we want more “things”.] Our battle is often for perfection, not simply just management. We strive to thrive in the States. This is how life is for the wealthy. However, we are in the verrry distinct minority. The truth is, this is not the reality for the majority of the world. Most of the world strives to just merely SURVIVE. Most of the world instead doesn't even have the means to be able to over-consume in any way. Finding the means to merely get by is the key. For the most part, we as Americans never have to go through the pain and strife that most of the world does. We cannot even begin to relate to the struggles of daily life of these people. How things have gotten this way, I am not entirely sure. All I know is that is the reality.
These thoughts have been on my mind for quite some time now, but not until today was I swept away with passion on this subject. Today (Sabado, 10/16/2010) we took a field trip to Lima to check out a certain water treatment system and also view this place called Kallpa Wasi – Casa de Energia. It is the first and only plant of renewable energy in Peru. Please understand, when I say “plant” I mean tiny building with a backyard. This place had a compost area, a solar panel, a biodigestor area, a windmill (with 1.5 foot blades, might I add), and a small biodiesel converter. ...That's it. Honestly, it blew me away at first. Not because of the novelty, but rather the exact opposite. This was Peru's renewable energy plant? Simply paling in comparison to the US. [We must not forget to rewind time in American history to remember when our society was once there too. It is not until just recently when parts of our society have slowly started becoming more conscious of our actions. Of course that's not to say we're a sustainable country by any means, but we have enough wealth and stability to begin dabbling into it.] Through college I had studied and been exposed to an infinite amount of “green living” systems, ideas, and technology. I used to spend my free time reading articles, going to fairs, supporting local movements, recycling at football games, alternative transportation, putting on programs... all focused around “green conscious” living. But for the most part, none of that has any place here whatsoever. They are too busy just trying to get enough Soles ($) to survive the day. Why would they care about a windmill or solar panel if it does not directly assist them in survival today? How can they even begin to relate to that when they're cooking over a fire for their 7 kids in their tiny one-room thatched house? Here, it is completely irrelevant.
Again, most of the world is just striving to survive; the USA is a unique and very minute population in our world. Living in a developing country and seeing & experiencing a taste of what people go through has made this point all too obvious. The world is not always nice, the world is not clean, paved streets, happy faces, super-stores, fappuccinos, personal cars, fancy phones, clean water, green grass, more-or-less stable government, educated population, environmental activism. It is often difficult for us in the States to realize our wealth because wealth has been all we've ever known. Our expectations are set much higher and because of this, anything lower is often outrageous or unacceptable. Above anything else, I wish that more gratefulness would exist in heart of the American society. After all, it is just by pure luck that we have been born into the situations we have been born into. As I'm sitting there in the combi (bus) watching the Peru sites pass by, witnessing all the poverty, I can't help but think: What if I was dealt the hand of that Peruvian child?
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Comida Peruana
Quick news flash: Had to go back to the PC doctor and he took my cast off (again, crazy doctor experience). Limping, but able to get around with a brace. Good news. Also, my Peruvian boyfriend Panchito (the llama) has passed away of unknown causes. We are all sad here at the Center because he was a good companion for us. He used to like when we scratched his neck like a dog. One time we even played futbol with him! Poor Panchito, moment of silencio por favor. Bad news. Furthermore, the Peruvian mayorial elections has finally come to an end. Our timing for entering into Peru was perfect for arriving into the superbly passionate action that happens during election time around here. Every empty wall is painted for the candidates, every plaza is filled with campaign events, every night sky is full of fireworks. Sometimes they got so excited about the fireworks that it sounded like a war as we tried to go to sleep... not to mention all the dog fights that incited because of all of the action. It all ended this Sunday (election day), so I'm wondering what will be painted on the walls, fill the plazas, and light up the sky now that its all over! No worries, we still have over about 400 Peruvian holidays to celebrate per year. Count me in! Good news.
FOOD. We all .l.o.v.e. food. But here, not only do they love it, they obsess over it. And it's good too. Like really, really good. The food we eat here is incredibly different than what we consume in the States. Every dish is authentic PERU- all the food is not only grown here, but the dishes have also been traditionally made and passed down for hundreds of years. Whereas in the States, we have a wide variety of food types that are not necessarily even native or have any relevance to the climates that we may be in and the food dishes that we make are essentially a hodgepodge of various cultures. I have really appreciated the thick tradition that surrounds the food here though. I have tried more variety of food than I even imagine existed. Even just the Fruits! There's a bazillion fruits sold here that I never even knew existed, and tastes that I have never even dreamed of before. It's amazing! Oh and our meals- incredible. I literally finish every single meal smiling because it was so good. Lomo saltado, Aji gallina, Tomales, Carapulcra, Pacha Manca, Cuy, Ceviche, Papa a la huancayna just to name a few. Check 'em out. Cook a few of the dishes and let me know what you think!
Food is a huge part of the Peruvian culture. It is their way of showing they care and is their center piece of life. They share everything here-- one of our favorite Peruvian customs that us PCVs have caught onto is “Invitame”.. it means “Invite me”.. meaning “Give me some of that food ya got there!” More often what you'll find is the Peruvian that has the food will “Te invito” (“I invite you”) invite you to share in her/his food. It's awesome and really comes in handy when someones got some cookies you want. ;D
I will say, there are a few USA treats that I indulge in from time to time. As many people know, I am a huge fan of peanut butter. I thought ahead and brought 2 jars with me here. (PS- send more!) I was trying to save it 'til I got really desperate, buuuut it only worked for about 2 weeks in. (It's funny how when you don't have access to something, it kind of makes you crave it even more!) I was sitting at my desk studying after a long day at Training, and I couldn't stop thinking about the Peanut Butter (mantequilla de mani) jars that were sitting in my top drawer. Finally I caved in. I went over to get it in the drawer and I could feel my mouth already watering in anticipation of the peanutty goodness. Giddily I went to go sit down to open it. I could feel my heart beating fast, hands sweating- it was an adrenaline rush for sure. Just opening a jar of PB, who woulda thought! I sure am glad that my host family doesn't like it, invitame's on this one!
On the subject of food, I will be cooking for my host family tonight! Southern BBQ & Cole Slaw. I can't say that I'm not a little nervous though. The last time I cooked for them it didn't turn out so well and my host sister joked about it with me for days after... so let's see what happens this time!
FOOD. We all .l.o.v.e. food. But here, not only do they love it, they obsess over it. And it's good too. Like really, really good. The food we eat here is incredibly different than what we consume in the States. Every dish is authentic PERU- all the food is not only grown here, but the dishes have also been traditionally made and passed down for hundreds of years. Whereas in the States, we have a wide variety of food types that are not necessarily even native or have any relevance to the climates that we may be in and the food dishes that we make are essentially a hodgepodge of various cultures. I have really appreciated the thick tradition that surrounds the food here though. I have tried more variety of food than I even imagine existed. Even just the Fruits! There's a bazillion fruits sold here that I never even knew existed, and tastes that I have never even dreamed of before. It's amazing! Oh and our meals- incredible. I literally finish every single meal smiling because it was so good. Lomo saltado, Aji gallina, Tomales, Carapulcra, Pacha Manca, Cuy, Ceviche, Papa a la huancayna just to name a few. Check 'em out. Cook a few of the dishes and let me know what you think!
Food is a huge part of the Peruvian culture. It is their way of showing they care and is their center piece of life. They share everything here-- one of our favorite Peruvian customs that us PCVs have caught onto is “Invitame”.. it means “Invite me”.. meaning “Give me some of that food ya got there!” More often what you'll find is the Peruvian that has the food will “Te invito” (“I invite you”) invite you to share in her/his food. It's awesome and really comes in handy when someones got some cookies you want. ;D
I will say, there are a few USA treats that I indulge in from time to time. As many people know, I am a huge fan of peanut butter. I thought ahead and brought 2 jars with me here. (PS- send more!) I was trying to save it 'til I got really desperate, buuuut it only worked for about 2 weeks in. (It's funny how when you don't have access to something, it kind of makes you crave it even more!) I was sitting at my desk studying after a long day at Training, and I couldn't stop thinking about the Peanut Butter (mantequilla de mani) jars that were sitting in my top drawer. Finally I caved in. I went over to get it in the drawer and I could feel my mouth already watering in anticipation of the peanutty goodness. Giddily I went to go sit down to open it. I could feel my heart beating fast, hands sweating- it was an adrenaline rush for sure. Just opening a jar of PB, who woulda thought! I sure am glad that my host family doesn't like it, invitame's on this one!
On the subject of food, I will be cooking for my host family tonight! Southern BBQ & Cole Slaw. I can't say that I'm not a little nervous though. The last time I cooked for them it didn't turn out so well and my host sister joked about it with me for days after... so let's see what happens this time!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
A Break In The Routine
Coming here to Peru for the Cuerpo de Paz, I expected curve balls, hurdles, and mountains to overcome... but I definitely didn't see this one coming.
This past Friday after a long day at school a bunch of us decided to play some futbol at a place near our Center. It was an intense game, as futbol around here usually is. Also, when we play here there is no such thing as green grass fields-- I'm talking old cement courts with a bunch of sand/mud dust all over. Five minutes in I took a spill landing flat on my knee. It hurt at impact, but adrenaline somehow temporarily erases a lot of pain. So I played the rest of the game fine. It wasn't until the game ended, before I realized that my knee was hurting. I figured that ice and Asprin would do the trick and I'd be up and ready to go the next morning (Sabado) because we had a big trip to Lima planned. Welllll, my inability to walk the next morning led my host mom to call our PC doctor. Somehow one thing led to another and I soon found myself lying on a doctors table in Lima getting a shot in the backside with several nurses and doctors trying to speak to me from every which way with words I could barely understand. A frightening time, to say the least, but I did my best to keep my composure as things were already hectic enough as it was. Wheelchairs, Xrays, and a few signatures away I then found myself being told I needed to put on “the gown”. I couldn't fully understand what was going on because I thought they were just going to give me a brace; after all, it was only a tiny hairline fracture on my knee. But as it turns out- Peruvians don't have braces, they have cast molds. Yeah. Sooo two Peruvian doctors then proceeded to mold a cast to my leg. I'm not talking a little knee cast or something. I'm talkin' my ENTIRE leg-- ankle to upper thigh. Yes, upper thigh-- and if you can just imagine the discomfort as I am trying to keep my gown down while they're fiddling with the cast mold... as I'm lying there wishing I could just wake up from this nightmare. Pretty much the only thing that kept me sane at this moment was I kept saying to myself “Well, at least I have on cute undies...!” Jajaja. After that, I found my way back a few hours later to my host family's doorstep. I was so drained at this moment that I honestly couldn't get any Spanish words out and just simply had to retreat to my room to lick my emotional wounds for a while.
My nickname is now “Caty la tortuga” (Caitlin the turtle) because I can't get around well with this monstrosity on my leg that I am incredibly slow. I feel bad for whoever is behind me walking down/up stairs! The fun part is that everyone wanted to sign my cast, so it now has a variety of english/spanish writings and drawings. Someone even drew my boyfriend Panchito (the llama we have at the PC Center that somehow has been dubbed mi novio by my host family- they thinks it's the funniest thing in the world). Jajaja. Oh and they also love to knock on it and pretend someone is knocking on the door. ...So, as with all things- for every bad there is some good. Life sure has a funny way of giving us surprises and challenging us, doesn't it? I feel this is Life's silent way of seeing how badly I truly want this. And this is only the beginning. But I'm ready.
This past Friday after a long day at school a bunch of us decided to play some futbol at a place near our Center. It was an intense game, as futbol around here usually is. Also, when we play here there is no such thing as green grass fields-- I'm talking old cement courts with a bunch of sand/mud dust all over. Five minutes in I took a spill landing flat on my knee. It hurt at impact, but adrenaline somehow temporarily erases a lot of pain. So I played the rest of the game fine. It wasn't until the game ended, before I realized that my knee was hurting. I figured that ice and Asprin would do the trick and I'd be up and ready to go the next morning (Sabado) because we had a big trip to Lima planned. Welllll, my inability to walk the next morning led my host mom to call our PC doctor. Somehow one thing led to another and I soon found myself lying on a doctors table in Lima getting a shot in the backside with several nurses and doctors trying to speak to me from every which way with words I could barely understand. A frightening time, to say the least, but I did my best to keep my composure as things were already hectic enough as it was. Wheelchairs, Xrays, and a few signatures away I then found myself being told I needed to put on “the gown”. I couldn't fully understand what was going on because I thought they were just going to give me a brace; after all, it was only a tiny hairline fracture on my knee. But as it turns out- Peruvians don't have braces, they have cast molds. Yeah. Sooo two Peruvian doctors then proceeded to mold a cast to my leg. I'm not talking a little knee cast or something. I'm talkin' my ENTIRE leg-- ankle to upper thigh. Yes, upper thigh-- and if you can just imagine the discomfort as I am trying to keep my gown down while they're fiddling with the cast mold... as I'm lying there wishing I could just wake up from this nightmare. Pretty much the only thing that kept me sane at this moment was I kept saying to myself “Well, at least I have on cute undies...!” Jajaja. After that, I found my way back a few hours later to my host family's doorstep. I was so drained at this moment that I honestly couldn't get any Spanish words out and just simply had to retreat to my room to lick my emotional wounds for a while.
My nickname is now “Caty la tortuga” (Caitlin the turtle) because I can't get around well with this monstrosity on my leg that I am incredibly slow. I feel bad for whoever is behind me walking down/up stairs! The fun part is that everyone wanted to sign my cast, so it now has a variety of english/spanish writings and drawings. Someone even drew my boyfriend Panchito (the llama we have at the PC Center that somehow has been dubbed mi novio by my host family- they thinks it's the funniest thing in the world). Jajaja. Oh and they also love to knock on it and pretend someone is knocking on the door. ...So, as with all things- for every bad there is some good. Life sure has a funny way of giving us surprises and challenging us, doesn't it? I feel this is Life's silent way of seeing how badly I truly want this. And this is only the beginning. But I'm ready.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Mi Casa Nueva
It is difficult to even begin to put in words what I have gone through over this last week, but I will give it my best shot.
After ooh's and aah's at DC gov buildings, several orientation meetings, many introductions to the ~80 volunteers traveling to Peru, the last supper of pizza and beer enjoyments, and many many hours waiting in airports... I somehow wound up in Peru! The first thing I did in Peru was lose my camera-- not a good start, but I figured I was still alive (and in PERU!), so I was contenta. We had a few day retreat near Lima (the capital city) with all 80 volunteers at this old monastery place. I don't remember anything except the food was great and I got to play futbol. Jajaja--- just kidding. It was a great introduction into our life for the next 2 ½ years. It motivated me and grounded me. It reaffirmed my reasons and dedication for being here, and also gave me a slap in the face of how things are going to be. There were two current voluntarios there from Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) who really gave us the insight on how things are. I can say that hands down this will be the most challenging thing that I have ever done. It will without a doubt make me feel hopeless at times and make me want to quit. It will for sure push and pull me in directions that I have never even imagined. But am I still willing to do this? ...I answered YES.
Some traveling by super loco combis (buses with crazy drivers, think of that 2-story busride in Harry Potter..!) led us to Santa Eulalia where we soon thereafter met our host families. Let me tell you, I don't remember the last time I had been this nerviosa. I thought I was going to faint, cry, or be sick... none of which would probably make a good first impression so my body decided to just instead stand there like a deer in headlights when they called me to meet my familia. So this was the momenta that I found out that being nervous is extremely debilitating for speaking another language. I honestly don't even think I formed complete sentences that whole taxi ride. Well, by the time I arrived at their casa I was able to breathe again and even begin to make sense! Well, it was easy since I was being welcomed into the kindest familia in town. =) I am so grateful for their patience. Jaime (el padre) and Deri (la madre) have an 18 y/o son named Giancarlo who likes WWF wrestling and a 15 y/o daughter named Mishel who is absolutely 100% infatuated with Justin Bieber. The first thing she asked me was if I would go listen to Justin Bieber (“her boyfriend” she says). Jajaja!! OH! And my room was definitely not complete without a picture of Justin right next to my bed.
Ahora, we have class for 8 hours a day, 5-6 times a week. We are learning Spanish, technical skills for our WATSAN projects, Peruvian culture & history, and about safety. It's intense, but I love it. My mind is this open cereal bowl that I want to fill with as many fruit-loops as possible!! Jajaja. I think the thing is that I want to learn as much as I possibly can right now so I can be as prepared as possible for the next two years. I want all the tools I will ever need, and this is my chance to get them.
One thing that my host family has said from the start is “poco a poco” = “little by little”. I have reminded myself of this every dia. It is important, especially now with so many new things being thrown my way every momento, to keep patience with myself as I go along. I will improve a little every day, I will learn a little every day, and I will make mistakes a little every day. It's just how it is. So I must remember to take things poco a poco. And this includes all of my funny awkward moments...
Getting used to these awkward moments is part of it all. I know I'm not alone in this because a lot of our free time during escuela is talking/laughing about all our awkward/funny moments. Not a day goes by that I don't say something that is soon turned into a laugh. So far, through my very loquacious Spanish-speaking ability, I have been able to: say that I am wearing a chicken, say that I put machines on my face, offer my host siblings some gay-flavored candy, say that I washed my hands with a ham, and ask my host dad to shower me. Wowwwwwwww... si. Well, these are all things that come with learning speaking another language and at least they make us laugh right?! I've come to expect these little surprises...
The language is not the only thing different here. This is a whole new world compared to los Estados Unidos. So much is different here for me: bug spray is the new perfume, cat-calls come with being una chica and are now expected while walking down the street, hot showers are a thing of the past, earth quakes are no biggy, green grass is a strange encounter, clean feet is odd, speaking English is unnatural, small meals don't exist, and being confused is normal. Sounds like an upside-down Alice In Wonderland dream to me!
Overall, I feel as if I am a toddler learning to walk for the first time. I am having to learn many things that are so normal to the people here. It's very interesting for me and also an unusual thing for us as humans.
Well, I hope this has given you some insight as to what I have been experiencing for the last week. Also, this was nice for me to put this week in review and reflect on it. So, thanks! There are many many more things to come, like I said-- I am still a toddler.
After ooh's and aah's at DC gov buildings, several orientation meetings, many introductions to the ~80 volunteers traveling to Peru, the last supper of pizza and beer enjoyments, and many many hours waiting in airports... I somehow wound up in Peru! The first thing I did in Peru was lose my camera-- not a good start, but I figured I was still alive (and in PERU!), so I was contenta. We had a few day retreat near Lima (the capital city) with all 80 volunteers at this old monastery place. I don't remember anything except the food was great and I got to play futbol. Jajaja--- just kidding. It was a great introduction into our life for the next 2 ½ years. It motivated me and grounded me. It reaffirmed my reasons and dedication for being here, and also gave me a slap in the face of how things are going to be. There were two current voluntarios there from Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) who really gave us the insight on how things are. I can say that hands down this will be the most challenging thing that I have ever done. It will without a doubt make me feel hopeless at times and make me want to quit. It will for sure push and pull me in directions that I have never even imagined. But am I still willing to do this? ...I answered YES.
Some traveling by super loco combis (buses with crazy drivers, think of that 2-story busride in Harry Potter..!) led us to Santa Eulalia where we soon thereafter met our host families. Let me tell you, I don't remember the last time I had been this nerviosa. I thought I was going to faint, cry, or be sick... none of which would probably make a good first impression so my body decided to just instead stand there like a deer in headlights when they called me to meet my familia. So this was the momenta that I found out that being nervous is extremely debilitating for speaking another language. I honestly don't even think I formed complete sentences that whole taxi ride. Well, by the time I arrived at their casa I was able to breathe again and even begin to make sense! Well, it was easy since I was being welcomed into the kindest familia in town. =) I am so grateful for their patience. Jaime (el padre) and Deri (la madre) have an 18 y/o son named Giancarlo who likes WWF wrestling and a 15 y/o daughter named Mishel who is absolutely 100% infatuated with Justin Bieber. The first thing she asked me was if I would go listen to Justin Bieber (“her boyfriend” she says). Jajaja!! OH! And my room was definitely not complete without a picture of Justin right next to my bed.
Ahora, we have class for 8 hours a day, 5-6 times a week. We are learning Spanish, technical skills for our WATSAN projects, Peruvian culture & history, and about safety. It's intense, but I love it. My mind is this open cereal bowl that I want to fill with as many fruit-loops as possible!! Jajaja. I think the thing is that I want to learn as much as I possibly can right now so I can be as prepared as possible for the next two years. I want all the tools I will ever need, and this is my chance to get them.
One thing that my host family has said from the start is “poco a poco” = “little by little”. I have reminded myself of this every dia. It is important, especially now with so many new things being thrown my way every momento, to keep patience with myself as I go along. I will improve a little every day, I will learn a little every day, and I will make mistakes a little every day. It's just how it is. So I must remember to take things poco a poco. And this includes all of my funny awkward moments...
Getting used to these awkward moments is part of it all. I know I'm not alone in this because a lot of our free time during escuela is talking/laughing about all our awkward/funny moments. Not a day goes by that I don't say something that is soon turned into a laugh. So far, through my very loquacious Spanish-speaking ability, I have been able to: say that I am wearing a chicken, say that I put machines on my face, offer my host siblings some gay-flavored candy, say that I washed my hands with a ham, and ask my host dad to shower me. Wowwwwwwww... si. Well, these are all things that come with learning speaking another language and at least they make us laugh right?! I've come to expect these little surprises...
The language is not the only thing different here. This is a whole new world compared to los Estados Unidos. So much is different here for me: bug spray is the new perfume, cat-calls come with being una chica and are now expected while walking down the street, hot showers are a thing of the past, earth quakes are no biggy, green grass is a strange encounter, clean feet is odd, speaking English is unnatural, small meals don't exist, and being confused is normal. Sounds like an upside-down Alice In Wonderland dream to me!
Overall, I feel as if I am a toddler learning to walk for the first time. I am having to learn many things that are so normal to the people here. It's very interesting for me and also an unusual thing for us as humans.
Well, I hope this has given you some insight as to what I have been experiencing for the last week. Also, this was nice for me to put this week in review and reflect on it. So, thanks! There are many many more things to come, like I said-- I am still a toddler.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Pre-game butterflies
Sports have always been a big part of my life. I have played in hundreds of various sports games throughout my 22 years of existence starting from around the young age of seven. Before each and every game, no matter how many times I had previously stepped onto the field/court, I would without fail get "the butterflies." That whole-body feeling of anxiousness, nervousness, excitement... when your mind is an electric bowl of waves crashing into one another, your stomach seems to have a mind of it's own like it may return your mac'n'cheese lunch at any moment, and the formation of words into complete sentences is a skill that has somehow escaped your entire realm of abilities-- leaving the only thing able to be done: to remain still and ready.
Imagine the Peace Corps as being my Final Championship game in the World Cup.. and these are my "pre-game butterflies."
In other news........
Packing is slowly but surely coming together. To pack as little as possible for a 2-year trip is quite an interesting challenge. There's the essentials, then there's the wants. The "essentials" are those clothing options that will cover a lot of different social scenarios, fabric being able to wear rugged and not wrinkle much, and enough clothing to cover both warm and cold climate types. The "wants" are those things that one enjoys the comfort of here at home and that will keep me occupied during the long, solo days/nights (books, hemp&beads, glow-in-the-dark stars...) Basically, most of things that one would like to take (coughmybikecough) are stripped down to the bear necessities plus a few little extra things that will keep me sane.... like my glow-in-the-dark stars. ;D
I recently purchased a netbook (a mini labtop, weighs 3 lbs) and have been working on getting that up and running-- transferring stuff from the old comp and whatnot. It sure helps having friends and family that are great at computers to help me, an idiot savant when it comes to technology. (thanks Ryan and Nathan!!) I wonder if I will have electricity or internet in my new town..
On top of the packing, the teary goodbyes, family coming and going, 5 million errand runs, and the last minute appalachian hikes and sunny bike rides... I am simply trying to embrace these pre-game butterflies and maintain the hope that things will work out alright. I know for a fact that I will give it my all, so we shall wait and see what curve balls fate throws my way.
Imagine the Peace Corps as being my Final Championship game in the World Cup.. and these are my "pre-game butterflies."
In other news........
Packing is slowly but surely coming together. To pack as little as possible for a 2-year trip is quite an interesting challenge. There's the essentials, then there's the wants. The "essentials" are those clothing options that will cover a lot of different social scenarios, fabric being able to wear rugged and not wrinkle much, and enough clothing to cover both warm and cold climate types. The "wants" are those things that one enjoys the comfort of here at home and that will keep me occupied during the long, solo days/nights (books, hemp&beads, glow-in-the-dark stars...) Basically, most of things that one would like to take (coughmybikecough) are stripped down to the bear necessities plus a few little extra things that will keep me sane.... like my glow-in-the-dark stars. ;D
I recently purchased a netbook (a mini labtop, weighs 3 lbs) and have been working on getting that up and running-- transferring stuff from the old comp and whatnot. It sure helps having friends and family that are great at computers to help me, an idiot savant when it comes to technology. (thanks Ryan and Nathan!!) I wonder if I will have electricity or internet in my new town..
On top of the packing, the teary goodbyes, family coming and going, 5 million errand runs, and the last minute appalachian hikes and sunny bike rides... I am simply trying to embrace these pre-game butterflies and maintain the hope that things will work out alright. I know for a fact that I will give it my all, so we shall wait and see what curve balls fate throws my way.
Monday, August 16, 2010
T minus one month
Hello! For those of you reading my blog... BIENVENIDOS! WELCOME! I will be leaving for the Peace Corps in Peru in exactly one month from today. My job title is Water and Sanitation Volunteer (aka "WATSAN"). I will have two main objectives over the next few years: 1) Assisting local communities in the design, construction, operation, and management of water systems, latrines, sanitary landfills, and rain-water catchments, and 2) Working with teachers and health workers to provide health and hygiene education through community outreach programs and workshops. My work is cut out for me as at least 70% of the water services in rural areas require urgent rehabilitation or maintanence. Let's do it.
I have pre-service staging in Washington, DC for a couple days where all of the PCV's (Peace Corps Volunteers) going to Peru will meet up and get acquainted with our fellow coworkers and staff before they throw us to the lions. From there we will all travel to Lima, Peru (the capital city) where we will have pre-service training for the next 12 weeks. Training will consist of further education and skill development in the areas of techinical, language, cross-cultural, diversity, health, and safety training. More will be explained as I go through the process.
Un mes. One month. That seems like a lot of time, but with the never-ending list of things I need to do from now until then-- it definitely doesn't feel like a lot!
There are a lot of things needed to be done in order to prepare. The Peace Corps is really good about tryin to fill us in about what we are actually getting ourselves into. They want us to be as informed as possible so we can decide NOW if this is right/wrong for us before we get in deeper with this. Separating the girl llamas from the women llamas... as some may say. They have given me booklet upon booklet to read about the challenges I will face, the Peruvian culture, the rules of the PC, what to pack, how to act... you name it! On top of the mental preparation, emotional preparation and the tying of loose ends with friends and family (goodbyes are never fun)... there is also the whole packing thing. They say to pack as light as possible- 80lbs is the max! I'm shootin for 60-70 to keep it easy. We'll see how it goes. First, I guess I should probably unpack from college... ;)
I look forward to the journey ahead and am glad you can sort of join in on the journey with me through this blog.
Hasta luego mis amigos~
I have pre-service staging in Washington, DC for a couple days where all of the PCV's (Peace Corps Volunteers) going to Peru will meet up and get acquainted with our fellow coworkers and staff before they throw us to the lions. From there we will all travel to Lima, Peru (the capital city) where we will have pre-service training for the next 12 weeks. Training will consist of further education and skill development in the areas of techinical, language, cross-cultural, diversity, health, and safety training. More will be explained as I go through the process.
Un mes. One month. That seems like a lot of time, but with the never-ending list of things I need to do from now until then-- it definitely doesn't feel like a lot!
There are a lot of things needed to be done in order to prepare. The Peace Corps is really good about tryin to fill us in about what we are actually getting ourselves into. They want us to be as informed as possible so we can decide NOW if this is right/wrong for us before we get in deeper with this. Separating the girl llamas from the women llamas... as some may say. They have given me booklet upon booklet to read about the challenges I will face, the Peruvian culture, the rules of the PC, what to pack, how to act... you name it! On top of the mental preparation, emotional preparation and the tying of loose ends with friends and family (goodbyes are never fun)... there is also the whole packing thing. They say to pack as light as possible- 80lbs is the max! I'm shootin for 60-70 to keep it easy. We'll see how it goes. First, I guess I should probably unpack from college... ;)
I look forward to the journey ahead and am glad you can sort of join in on the journey with me through this blog.
Hasta luego mis amigos~
Thursday, April 22, 2010
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