So I have arrived in Piura and I am about to head to site for my first actual day and let’s just say all of this isn’t playing out the way I anticipated.
For starters, my friend Amy has decided to head back to the States so we are one more person less for Piura. The next bit of news is I woke up feeling deathly ill. It feels like my intestines are being ripped into pieces and I am nauseated. I also went to the post office to get my kindle I have been dying to receive and I open the package to find out it’s broken. Then I talk to my mom and she informs me my great grandmother has died. So basically I am a complete mess and I haven’t even made it to site. Please keep me and my family in your prayers because times are super tough right now.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Saying goodbye
The time has finally come for me to say goodbye to my family, local friends, trainers and other volunteers. I honestly didn’t think it would be that hard because I have only known them for 10 weeks, but boy was I wrong. Talk about some waterworks.
The first set of goodbyes happened at the swearing-in ceremony and I was fine until the freakin national anthem was sung and then I just cried. I had to say bye to my Spanish teachers and other tech trainers and it was 10X harder than I expected. The second set came at the bar-turned-discotech-by-volunteers place we went to and that was even harder because it’s going to be months if not longer before I see any of these people.
These volunteers and trainers are my family. They are all I have here and saying goodbye to them is like leaving the USA to come to Peru alone again…just this time I am leaving one city in Peru and going to another one. It’s tough!
After all of those goodbyes I had to say goodbye to Rigel. That was SUPER tough because he lives in Chaclacayo and who knows if I will be able to make it back anytime soon to see him. I know I will be seeing the volunteers and most of the trainers again…just a long time from now. I know Rigel and I are going to try to visit each other, but it’s difficult when we both have jobs. He has been so good to me and was the first person outside of PC that I met. He will always hold a special place with me. He helped me with my language, culture things and kept me sane when I needed a break from all things Peace Corps.
I didn’t think I would be that emotional when I said goodbye to my family. I love them dearly, but I didn’t think it would be hard. I basically broke down in sobbing cries and even thinking about it is making me cry. They have been SO good to me and I feel like they are my parents and I don’t want to leave them. They had to put up with my lack of Spanish from day 1, all my culture shock/mass confusion and I just feel like I know them so well. I will most defiantly be back to see them before I leave. I bought them some Panatone (Christmas bread that is disgusting that Peruvians LOVE…except me and Rigel). I also printed out 7 pictures from my times with them for them to have. They were super excited about it and my gift was a can of peaches. I don’t really like peaches that much, but I bet one day when I am lonely sitting in my room, a can of peaches might just do the trick. I can also use the can afterwards too for a pencil thingy.
Anyway, saying goodbye always sucks. If I end up having a strong relationship with the people of Pambarumbe I can’t imagine how hard goodbye will be at the close of my service in two years. Right now I need to focus of my hellos and my Spanish because my world is about to be rocked!
The first set of goodbyes happened at the swearing-in ceremony and I was fine until the freakin national anthem was sung and then I just cried. I had to say bye to my Spanish teachers and other tech trainers and it was 10X harder than I expected. The second set came at the bar-turned-discotech-by-volunteers place we went to and that was even harder because it’s going to be months if not longer before I see any of these people.
These volunteers and trainers are my family. They are all I have here and saying goodbye to them is like leaving the USA to come to Peru alone again…just this time I am leaving one city in Peru and going to another one. It’s tough!
After all of those goodbyes I had to say goodbye to Rigel. That was SUPER tough because he lives in Chaclacayo and who knows if I will be able to make it back anytime soon to see him. I know I will be seeing the volunteers and most of the trainers again…just a long time from now. I know Rigel and I are going to try to visit each other, but it’s difficult when we both have jobs. He has been so good to me and was the first person outside of PC that I met. He will always hold a special place with me. He helped me with my language, culture things and kept me sane when I needed a break from all things Peace Corps.
I didn’t think I would be that emotional when I said goodbye to my family. I love them dearly, but I didn’t think it would be hard. I basically broke down in sobbing cries and even thinking about it is making me cry. They have been SO good to me and I feel like they are my parents and I don’t want to leave them. They had to put up with my lack of Spanish from day 1, all my culture shock/mass confusion and I just feel like I know them so well. I will most defiantly be back to see them before I leave. I bought them some Panatone (Christmas bread that is disgusting that Peruvians LOVE…except me and Rigel). I also printed out 7 pictures from my times with them for them to have. They were super excited about it and my gift was a can of peaches. I don’t really like peaches that much, but I bet one day when I am lonely sitting in my room, a can of peaches might just do the trick. I can also use the can afterwards too for a pencil thingy.
Anyway, saying goodbye always sucks. If I end up having a strong relationship with the people of Pambarumbe I can’t imagine how hard goodbye will be at the close of my service in two years. Right now I need to focus of my hellos and my Spanish because my world is about to be rocked!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Thanking and Swearing
This was definitely a different type of Thanksgiving. I am going to guess that I was thankful for things usually those in America forget to be thankful for.
For example, I am thankful for: knowing cold showers are only temporary in my life, Cracker Barrel, Cipro, a day where I haven’t eaten rice or potatoes, my family and friends in the USA, my family and friends in Peru, chocolate, toilets that flush, cell phone service, washer’s and driers, the moments when I feel clean, for being American, Peace Corps, the culture and people of Peru, not having diarrhea, bananas, nice dogs, wireless (even though I don’t have it), organized traffic, comfortable beds, knowing that roosters will not always destroy my life, rocks, Wal-Mart, mosquito nets and a lot more random things.
For Thanksgiving our trainers had a breakfast for us. We had fruit bowls, bread with cheese and coffee. It was delicious and we all went around and said what we were thankful for. After that we had a cute slideshow of a ton of funny pictures from the last 10 weeks of training. (It’s possible it might make a YouTube appearance…I will let you know). Then we prepared for a dinner and show for our families. All the families were invited to the training center and we served them American and Peruvian food. I made my Reece’s chocolate cake and they devoured it in a second (thank you Grandma)! It was a time trying to make that cake because I had to literally make the sour cream, but since they loved it who cares. After eating we had a show for them. We did dances, songs and all kinds of weird interpretations. I think they enjoyed themselves.
After the show a group of us went to the plaza and celebrated Thanksgiving ourselves. We shared some beverages and just enjoyed what little time we had together. Once people split off I went and spent some time with Rigel. We did the typical Peruvian thing and watched Al Fond Hay Sitio. It was a different kind of Thanksgiving, but I still loved it. I miss my friends and family in the States, but I was able to share it with new friends and family.
My “black Friday” was not spent fighting crowds and shopping…this year it was the most important day of my PC life. I officially was sworn in as a Peace Corps Volunteer. I am not longer a trainee….but a volunteer. FINALLY! The US Ambassador to Peru was there and she gave a nice speech to us. We actually have the same oath as the military. There was tons of food, speeches and people at our ceremony, but it was bittersweet. We said our tearful goodbyes to our trainers and I pretended I knew exactly what to do when I get to site. Lol. Fear not, it was not out last time to say goodbye to everyone. Being it was a Friday night and not just any Friday night, but the last Friday night, we went to celebrate. About 40 out of 70 of us went to Chosica and fled to the roof of a bar that had an awesome jukebox. We danced to American and Peruvian songs until the sun came up. The goodbyes were tearful, but I know that because we are Peru 16 we will always be connected. I said my goodbyes slightly before sunrise and went to spend time in Chaclacayo with my local friends I have made. I feel like those goodbyes were harder because it’s a possibility I won’t being seeing them anytime soon, if at all.
Now the training part of my PCV life has closed and it’s time to put this knowledge to work. I am so thankful for my PC family and everything they do for me. I hate leaving my family and friends in Chaclacayo, but I will always plan to come back and visit. Part of my heart will always stay in Chaclacayo.
I will say I am scared, nervous, anxious, excited, happy and sad about leaving. I want to go to Piura, but I don’t want to leave Chaclacayo. I am sure Pambarumbe will become a nice home to me as well, but I just hate leaving the home I have already made.
I have tried to keep this blog updated as often as possible, but I should warn you that there isn’t internet in my site so therefore; this blog will be updated less and less. Stay tuned though because I will do my best to tell you what’s going on. Say some prayers and wish me luck because now it’s time for the real PCV life!
For example, I am thankful for: knowing cold showers are only temporary in my life, Cracker Barrel, Cipro, a day where I haven’t eaten rice or potatoes, my family and friends in the USA, my family and friends in Peru, chocolate, toilets that flush, cell phone service, washer’s and driers, the moments when I feel clean, for being American, Peace Corps, the culture and people of Peru, not having diarrhea, bananas, nice dogs, wireless (even though I don’t have it), organized traffic, comfortable beds, knowing that roosters will not always destroy my life, rocks, Wal-Mart, mosquito nets and a lot more random things.
For Thanksgiving our trainers had a breakfast for us. We had fruit bowls, bread with cheese and coffee. It was delicious and we all went around and said what we were thankful for. After that we had a cute slideshow of a ton of funny pictures from the last 10 weeks of training. (It’s possible it might make a YouTube appearance…I will let you know). Then we prepared for a dinner and show for our families. All the families were invited to the training center and we served them American and Peruvian food. I made my Reece’s chocolate cake and they devoured it in a second (thank you Grandma)! It was a time trying to make that cake because I had to literally make the sour cream, but since they loved it who cares. After eating we had a show for them. We did dances, songs and all kinds of weird interpretations. I think they enjoyed themselves.
After the show a group of us went to the plaza and celebrated Thanksgiving ourselves. We shared some beverages and just enjoyed what little time we had together. Once people split off I went and spent some time with Rigel. We did the typical Peruvian thing and watched Al Fond Hay Sitio. It was a different kind of Thanksgiving, but I still loved it. I miss my friends and family in the States, but I was able to share it with new friends and family.
My “black Friday” was not spent fighting crowds and shopping…this year it was the most important day of my PC life. I officially was sworn in as a Peace Corps Volunteer. I am not longer a trainee….but a volunteer. FINALLY! The US Ambassador to Peru was there and she gave a nice speech to us. We actually have the same oath as the military. There was tons of food, speeches and people at our ceremony, but it was bittersweet. We said our tearful goodbyes to our trainers and I pretended I knew exactly what to do when I get to site. Lol. Fear not, it was not out last time to say goodbye to everyone. Being it was a Friday night and not just any Friday night, but the last Friday night, we went to celebrate. About 40 out of 70 of us went to Chosica and fled to the roof of a bar that had an awesome jukebox. We danced to American and Peruvian songs until the sun came up. The goodbyes were tearful, but I know that because we are Peru 16 we will always be connected. I said my goodbyes slightly before sunrise and went to spend time in Chaclacayo with my local friends I have made. I feel like those goodbyes were harder because it’s a possibility I won’t being seeing them anytime soon, if at all.
Now the training part of my PCV life has closed and it’s time to put this knowledge to work. I am so thankful for my PC family and everything they do for me. I hate leaving my family and friends in Chaclacayo, but I will always plan to come back and visit. Part of my heart will always stay in Chaclacayo.
I will say I am scared, nervous, anxious, excited, happy and sad about leaving. I want to go to Piura, but I don’t want to leave Chaclacayo. I am sure Pambarumbe will become a nice home to me as well, but I just hate leaving the home I have already made.
I have tried to keep this blog updated as often as possible, but I should warn you that there isn’t internet in my site so therefore; this blog will be updated less and less. Stay tuned though because I will do my best to tell you what’s going on. Say some prayers and wish me luck because now it’s time for the real PCV life!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
I have a boyfriend
I have a boyfriend and his name is Peru and we are slowing falling in love. I have only known him since September 17 and we did not like each other at all the first day we met. I thought he was strange and different in a bad way, but with time I am falling head over heels for him.
He is very kind to me and always knows how to keep me entertained. We like to watch pirated movies together and sometimes even go to the theatre. He really likes to listen to music and dance which are my favorite things too. We listen to a lot of different types of music together and dance to them as well. We listen to rap, rock, country, cumbia, salsa, meringue, reggaton, classic rock and we especially love the hits of the 1980’s. Our favorite dance to rock out at the clubs is meringue or salsa. We love to go out on weekends and socialize. It’s what we do best.
We like some of the same food, but he eats way to much rice and potatoes in my opinion. Sometimes the food he fixes for me really upsets my stomach, but I forgive him for it because it’s not like he can personally ask my stomach if it’s ok to eat certain foods. We love eating bread together. It’s one of our favorite foods. I wish he liked to eat more sweets, but that may just be a blessing in disguise.
He likes different types of weather too. For example, we like to go to the sierra, mountains, beach and jungle together. Usually the best places we go together it’s hot during the day and cold at night. I hate all the bug bites I get when we go out, but I can’t help it I have such sweet blood
He is very sweet to me. All the time he is sharing his food and making sure I am safe. Anytime I have questions about anything, he is there to answer or find the answer for me. The way he drives reminds me of Egypt. It’s life-threatening, dangerous, but all the adventure just makes it fun.
Some days though he really pisses me off. Is it too much to ask for to just throw my toilet paper in his toilet and not a trashcan? Is it really too much to ask for to just have running water for at least 10 hours a day? Sometimes I want to tell him something so bad, but every now and then we have a “lost in translation” moment and I just give up.
Our biggest fights are usually about how he always gets me dirty. Since we live together, his shower is super cold and I never feel clean after it. I don’t have any appliances so I never feel pretty even when I am trying to look my Sunday best. He tells me I look just fine and to get over, but sometimes I just wish I had a hair dryer, straightener, some high heels and a little black dress, but that would look silly in our town of 235. But again, this could be a blessing in disguise because he is teaching me I don’t need these things to survive. They just make me feel comfortable and I am learning to deal without. He is really good about looking at the positive side of things. He has also taught me how to just laugh at a long of things. He is very relaxed and easy going. My favorite thing about him, he loves trying new things.
I love him dearly because of who he is and how he can make me laugh. I have a feeling this is about to turn into a serious relationship, most likely something along the lines of two years…if not more.
He is very kind to me and always knows how to keep me entertained. We like to watch pirated movies together and sometimes even go to the theatre. He really likes to listen to music and dance which are my favorite things too. We listen to a lot of different types of music together and dance to them as well. We listen to rap, rock, country, cumbia, salsa, meringue, reggaton, classic rock and we especially love the hits of the 1980’s. Our favorite dance to rock out at the clubs is meringue or salsa. We love to go out on weekends and socialize. It’s what we do best.
We like some of the same food, but he eats way to much rice and potatoes in my opinion. Sometimes the food he fixes for me really upsets my stomach, but I forgive him for it because it’s not like he can personally ask my stomach if it’s ok to eat certain foods. We love eating bread together. It’s one of our favorite foods. I wish he liked to eat more sweets, but that may just be a blessing in disguise.
He likes different types of weather too. For example, we like to go to the sierra, mountains, beach and jungle together. Usually the best places we go together it’s hot during the day and cold at night. I hate all the bug bites I get when we go out, but I can’t help it I have such sweet blood
He is very sweet to me. All the time he is sharing his food and making sure I am safe. Anytime I have questions about anything, he is there to answer or find the answer for me. The way he drives reminds me of Egypt. It’s life-threatening, dangerous, but all the adventure just makes it fun.
Some days though he really pisses me off. Is it too much to ask for to just throw my toilet paper in his toilet and not a trashcan? Is it really too much to ask for to just have running water for at least 10 hours a day? Sometimes I want to tell him something so bad, but every now and then we have a “lost in translation” moment and I just give up.
Our biggest fights are usually about how he always gets me dirty. Since we live together, his shower is super cold and I never feel clean after it. I don’t have any appliances so I never feel pretty even when I am trying to look my Sunday best. He tells me I look just fine and to get over, but sometimes I just wish I had a hair dryer, straightener, some high heels and a little black dress, but that would look silly in our town of 235. But again, this could be a blessing in disguise because he is teaching me I don’t need these things to survive. They just make me feel comfortable and I am learning to deal without. He is really good about looking at the positive side of things. He has also taught me how to just laugh at a long of things. He is very relaxed and easy going. My favorite thing about him, he loves trying new things.
I love him dearly because of who he is and how he can make me laugh. I have a feeling this is about to turn into a serious relationship, most likely something along the lines of two years…if not more.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A lil Culture
I think I need to talk more about the Peruvian culture because it is VERY different than the culture of the United States. First things first, you have to be an open-minded person to fully understand and accept another culture. Many Americans, especially in small cities, are closed-minded. They believe that everything they do is correct, but they don’t realize their system may not work for other places.
For example, in Peru (and Egypt for that matter) it is common to use a hose and spray down the streets of dirt and areas of dirt or dust around the house so it doesn’t blow around all day. The combi’s in Peru don’t have a schedule. They just run all day and night and they only stop if you flag them down. When I go from Chaclacayo to Chosica, the combi may stop 20 times or 50 times, but they don’t stop for long. That system of transportation works for Peru perfectly, but it wouldn’t work in the USA.
When you are open-minded to new things you can honestly learn more about yourself. I have learned a few things about myself in Peru so far. One thing I have learned about myself is that I LOVE LOVE LOVE salsa dancing. I go out and salsa dance as often as I can and with as many people as I can. I can’t explain it, but I love the music and I love the dance. It’s a very emotional dance and it’s just so much fun and the people can teach you so well. I’ve also learned that I really love being alone sometimes and just taking time out to relax. In the States I loved being on the go, but people in Peru are more relaxed and it’s important to be tranqila.
Another thing to keep in mind, what is normal? No one can define what “normal” is because it’s different for everyone. What is normal to Paris Hilton is not normal to your average American. What is normal to the average American is not normal to the typical Peruvian, German, Egyptian or Cambodian. We all have our ideas of what normal is and it’s wrong to judge others based on what they think it is.
In Peru, PDA (public display of affection) is normal. It’s “normal” to go to a park and people of all ages are making out on park benches like it’s a contest. It’s a VERY affectionate culture and I LOVE it. In the USA, a small amount of PDA is “normal.” A park in the USA has people holding hands and walking around, maybe a small kiss or two. In Egypt, it’s not “normal” to see PDA. People of opposite sexes don’t show much affection in public because in their culture, affection is more of a private thing.
People here usually don’t have a lot of offer, but the one thing they will always do their best to offer you is food. Every time I had Spanish class at another trainee’s house their family always brought out snacks for us. One family didn’t even have a living room or paint in their house, but you better believe they went out of their way to give us the best snack ever. She made hamburgers for everyone and those aren’t common here at all! Part of the culture here is that it’s rude to decline any food or drinks, and yes that includes beer. People want to give you everything to show appreciation and it’s such a smack in the face to decline. I have been advised to always keep Tupperware with me because I will be invited to so many meals I won’t have the time or space to eat it all. The solution is to have Tupperware and tell them how I can’t wait to eat it later! It’s even rude not to clean your plate here. People want to make sure you are fed and when they offer, you better take it. I have even had people apologize to ME for being poor. What the heck??
One thing I would also like to bring up is the lack of things for trainee’s to do. Keep in mind that there isn’t a lot of things for us PCT’s to do in our free time. The closest mall is over 2 hours away because you have to take a combi. The closest movie theatre is 20-30 minutes away, but it’s expensive. I make 8 soles a day which is about $3.50 in American dollars. To go to the movies it is 5 soles and 2 soles for travel expenses. It’s too expensive to go to the movies. If we go to a restaurant we have to buy food and we are fed too much to begin with. We all live with families so we can’t just invite a group of people over to our houses to hang out. Therefore we are left to just go to the parks and find things to do. The most culturally accepted and fun thing to do is just grab a beer and all sit around and enjoy each other’s company before we all have to split off at dark and go to our houses. We aren’t alcoholics; there just aren’t tons of things for us to do in forms of entertainment so we gotta make it.
Drinking in Peru is a very common, normal and important way to socialize. People drink in what is called a beer circle. They all share the same beer and glass, because sharing is so important here. I have had a women break a freakin peanut in half just to share it with me. There is no law either about drinking in public. Beer here is very cheap and one of the most affordable things. In some stores milk is more expensive. It’s weird, but it’s the culture. People shouldn’t judge the way people do things in other countries before they find out why they do those things. That’s what makes the world beautiful and different because we all have different cultures and customs…and that’s why I want to see the world. Viva Peru!
For example, in Peru (and Egypt for that matter) it is common to use a hose and spray down the streets of dirt and areas of dirt or dust around the house so it doesn’t blow around all day. The combi’s in Peru don’t have a schedule. They just run all day and night and they only stop if you flag them down. When I go from Chaclacayo to Chosica, the combi may stop 20 times or 50 times, but they don’t stop for long. That system of transportation works for Peru perfectly, but it wouldn’t work in the USA.
When you are open-minded to new things you can honestly learn more about yourself. I have learned a few things about myself in Peru so far. One thing I have learned about myself is that I LOVE LOVE LOVE salsa dancing. I go out and salsa dance as often as I can and with as many people as I can. I can’t explain it, but I love the music and I love the dance. It’s a very emotional dance and it’s just so much fun and the people can teach you so well. I’ve also learned that I really love being alone sometimes and just taking time out to relax. In the States I loved being on the go, but people in Peru are more relaxed and it’s important to be tranqila.
Another thing to keep in mind, what is normal? No one can define what “normal” is because it’s different for everyone. What is normal to Paris Hilton is not normal to your average American. What is normal to the average American is not normal to the typical Peruvian, German, Egyptian or Cambodian. We all have our ideas of what normal is and it’s wrong to judge others based on what they think it is.
In Peru, PDA (public display of affection) is normal. It’s “normal” to go to a park and people of all ages are making out on park benches like it’s a contest. It’s a VERY affectionate culture and I LOVE it. In the USA, a small amount of PDA is “normal.” A park in the USA has people holding hands and walking around, maybe a small kiss or two. In Egypt, it’s not “normal” to see PDA. People of opposite sexes don’t show much affection in public because in their culture, affection is more of a private thing.
People here usually don’t have a lot of offer, but the one thing they will always do their best to offer you is food. Every time I had Spanish class at another trainee’s house their family always brought out snacks for us. One family didn’t even have a living room or paint in their house, but you better believe they went out of their way to give us the best snack ever. She made hamburgers for everyone and those aren’t common here at all! Part of the culture here is that it’s rude to decline any food or drinks, and yes that includes beer. People want to give you everything to show appreciation and it’s such a smack in the face to decline. I have been advised to always keep Tupperware with me because I will be invited to so many meals I won’t have the time or space to eat it all. The solution is to have Tupperware and tell them how I can’t wait to eat it later! It’s even rude not to clean your plate here. People want to make sure you are fed and when they offer, you better take it. I have even had people apologize to ME for being poor. What the heck??
One thing I would also like to bring up is the lack of things for trainee’s to do. Keep in mind that there isn’t a lot of things for us PCT’s to do in our free time. The closest mall is over 2 hours away because you have to take a combi. The closest movie theatre is 20-30 minutes away, but it’s expensive. I make 8 soles a day which is about $3.50 in American dollars. To go to the movies it is 5 soles and 2 soles for travel expenses. It’s too expensive to go to the movies. If we go to a restaurant we have to buy food and we are fed too much to begin with. We all live with families so we can’t just invite a group of people over to our houses to hang out. Therefore we are left to just go to the parks and find things to do. The most culturally accepted and fun thing to do is just grab a beer and all sit around and enjoy each other’s company before we all have to split off at dark and go to our houses. We aren’t alcoholics; there just aren’t tons of things for us to do in forms of entertainment so we gotta make it.
Drinking in Peru is a very common, normal and important way to socialize. People drink in what is called a beer circle. They all share the same beer and glass, because sharing is so important here. I have had a women break a freakin peanut in half just to share it with me. There is no law either about drinking in public. Beer here is very cheap and one of the most affordable things. In some stores milk is more expensive. It’s weird, but it’s the culture. People shouldn’t judge the way people do things in other countries before they find out why they do those things. That’s what makes the world beautiful and different because we all have different cultures and customs…and that’s why I want to see the world. Viva Peru!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Last Chacla weekend
This last weekend was my last weekend in Chaclacayo and it sure was a good one too. Friday night I learned a type of Peruvian traditional dance because I am going to have to perform this dance at our big going away party. I love dancing to my own beat, but I am terrible at actually learning a dance. I think I might be able to perfect it though! After dancing for a few hours I went to my friend Chelsea’s house and we had hamburgers again. This time her mom even put the French fries inside my hamburger. It was actually pretty good.
Saturday afternoon was the last class at Agraria University. It was horribly boring, but afterwards a group of us went to a big market in Lima to shop. I bought some toe nail polish and a new backpack. This guy kept trying to mark the price of these sheets Lindsey wanted to a ridiculous price and we basically fought with him. It was the first time I have really cussed a person to their face in Spanish. It was a good feeling to know I have the ability to haggle in Spanish and be snippy too. Ha. After that we went to the big fancy area called Jockey Plaza. The mall is one of the nicest malls I have seen in my life and it was slowly getting decorated for Christmas. I forget Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up because there aren’t decorations or music, it’s hot and no one is rushing to get presents around it. It’s kinda sad, but at the same time nice. We went to Chili’s to eat and I got a margarita. I haven’t had a Chili’s margarita in two months and this margarita made any form of blues go away. It was beyond expensive, but soooo worth it. After a life-threatening 1 hour taxi ride back to Chaclacayo, Lindsey and I prepared ourselves for our final Saturday night in Chaclacayo.
We started the night off going to Nancy’s house with a ton of other volunteers. Nancy’s mom was throwing a huge party for her host dad’s birthday. There was music, drinks, cakes and snack foods. We got there around 10 and started the party. Things didn’t really pick up until we left which was around midnight. Lindsey, Heather, Heather’s host sister and her friends and I all decided to go to the club in Chosica. We piled all 9 of us into a 5 person car and took off with the music playing and the breeze blowing in the air. Things were just getting started at Aquisito when we got there and they started getting better. Aquisito plays all types of music. There all types of Peruvian and American music which makes it fun for everyone! Without going into too many unnecessary details, more people from our group and the other showed up, Rigel and his friends came and we all danced the night away together until the sun was almost coming up. It was one of the best nights I have had here.
Sunday my family surprised me with lunch to Chosica. My family has never taken me anywhere in public with them. I am telling myself they aren’t ashamed of me, it’s just that they just don’t have the money and time to really go out and do things. We went to this really nice restaurant and all had giant pieces of chicken with French fries. It was super filling and delicious. After that we wondered around the plaza and my sister Diana played a lot of the carnival like games. My mom and I took a break from all that excitement and went to the fruit market and got bananas and strawberries. Diana cried and pitched a fit because we had to leave, but it was kinda funny to watch because my parents were making fun of her.
This was also my last dinner with my uncle. We all watched Hay Fondo Al Sitio and shared some laughs. They also taught me how to “de-ratify” my future room. I just need some nails and some plastic and then I will be good to go. We also played with my mosquito net and they showed me how I can hang it up. I was given the places to go buy the things and how much they should cost! I am ready to get to work!
I can’t believe my time in Chaclacayo is almost up. I’m not sure if I am ready for it. Some days I am ready to get out and others I dread leaving. Whether I am ready or not, Saturday is when I pack up and head out. Friday I swear in to become an OFFICIAL volunteer!!!
Saturday afternoon was the last class at Agraria University. It was horribly boring, but afterwards a group of us went to a big market in Lima to shop. I bought some toe nail polish and a new backpack. This guy kept trying to mark the price of these sheets Lindsey wanted to a ridiculous price and we basically fought with him. It was the first time I have really cussed a person to their face in Spanish. It was a good feeling to know I have the ability to haggle in Spanish and be snippy too. Ha. After that we went to the big fancy area called Jockey Plaza. The mall is one of the nicest malls I have seen in my life and it was slowly getting decorated for Christmas. I forget Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up because there aren’t decorations or music, it’s hot and no one is rushing to get presents around it. It’s kinda sad, but at the same time nice. We went to Chili’s to eat and I got a margarita. I haven’t had a Chili’s margarita in two months and this margarita made any form of blues go away. It was beyond expensive, but soooo worth it. After a life-threatening 1 hour taxi ride back to Chaclacayo, Lindsey and I prepared ourselves for our final Saturday night in Chaclacayo.
We started the night off going to Nancy’s house with a ton of other volunteers. Nancy’s mom was throwing a huge party for her host dad’s birthday. There was music, drinks, cakes and snack foods. We got there around 10 and started the party. Things didn’t really pick up until we left which was around midnight. Lindsey, Heather, Heather’s host sister and her friends and I all decided to go to the club in Chosica. We piled all 9 of us into a 5 person car and took off with the music playing and the breeze blowing in the air. Things were just getting started at Aquisito when we got there and they started getting better. Aquisito plays all types of music. There all types of Peruvian and American music which makes it fun for everyone! Without going into too many unnecessary details, more people from our group and the other showed up, Rigel and his friends came and we all danced the night away together until the sun was almost coming up. It was one of the best nights I have had here.
Sunday my family surprised me with lunch to Chosica. My family has never taken me anywhere in public with them. I am telling myself they aren’t ashamed of me, it’s just that they just don’t have the money and time to really go out and do things. We went to this really nice restaurant and all had giant pieces of chicken with French fries. It was super filling and delicious. After that we wondered around the plaza and my sister Diana played a lot of the carnival like games. My mom and I took a break from all that excitement and went to the fruit market and got bananas and strawberries. Diana cried and pitched a fit because we had to leave, but it was kinda funny to watch because my parents were making fun of her.
This was also my last dinner with my uncle. We all watched Hay Fondo Al Sitio and shared some laughs. They also taught me how to “de-ratify” my future room. I just need some nails and some plastic and then I will be good to go. We also played with my mosquito net and they showed me how I can hang it up. I was given the places to go buy the things and how much they should cost! I am ready to get to work!
I can’t believe my time in Chaclacayo is almost up. I’m not sure if I am ready for it. Some days I am ready to get out and others I dread leaving. Whether I am ready or not, Saturday is when I pack up and head out. Friday I swear in to become an OFFICIAL volunteer!!!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Harry, Doctor Visits and Pachamanca
Not too much has happened since I have returned from Piura. We have had more classes as usual and talked about our sites as well. We also had some very entertaining health sessions too. I received lots of special advice from my doctors. The best advice I was given was when I poop my pants (not if, when) to just laugh and send my doctors a picture. I can’t remember if I have mentioned it or not, but we have a, if you will, “poo chart.” It has pictures of types of poo so when I call my doctor about my poo I will have a good description.
One doctor, Sunni, told us a story of how a volunteer called her and said, “Sunni, I was hit by a car.” She replied, “Are you ok?!”
“Yes,” replied the volunteer. “Ok tell me again so I can laugh.” I have the best doctors ever.
We also had a conversation about what type of worm parasites most volunteers get. The presentation included not on only pictures, but an actual stool sample for us to pass around and see a worm. They say every group has volunteers with worms and at the same time we all screamed, “Not it!!!” Then we all took a bet and paid 1 sol and whoever gets the first worm/parasite in our group wins all the money. I haven’t decided if I want to be a winner in this or not. I feel like I might be aiming too high too soon.
I also received my first issue of Pasa La Voz. Pasa La Voz is the Peace Corps Peru magazine that is written by volunteers and for volunteers. It contains articles such as, “The Rules of Naked Glacial Jumping in Peru,” complete with who has the highest amount of counts. There are also articles about the highest number of days volunteers have gone without a shower and why some people smell worse than others. Our doctors did some research on this and found out it depends on the climate and types of food served. There was also a “sanitary quiz.” Don’t worry, I took it and received an ok score. There is room for improvement, but I don’t see that happening soon considering the rainy season is about to start.
A side note on my sanitary habits. I have only been here for two months and I am shocked at myself. Be disgusted if you want, but you don’t live here so you can’t judge fairly. I usually shower about 2 times a week because it’s torture. (Remember…freezing water). I have stopped caring for my hair because I have come to realize it will never look cute, combed, or decent in the country of Peru. I haven’t decided if it has more of a hippie look or gypsy. Rigel seems to think more of a hippie feel…which makes me have a little more attitude when I walk down the street with Led Zeppelin playing on my iPod. As for make-up, just a little eye make-up because my face is now brown from all the sun. Win. My hair is also getting some golden highlights too which really freaks me out. I have a feeling I am going to look like I have fallen out of the jungle if I don’t watch out. Haha. It’s integration right?
Anyway, last night I went to the midnight showing of Harry Potter and it was awesome. I didn’t realize it was coming out in Peru before the USA so I felt a little extra special. Side note though, it was in Spanish, but I didn’t have any trouble understanding. Before the movie me, Kelsey, Nate and Bj made costumes. We all had brooms made out of bamboo with giant leaves taped to it. I won’t lie, they actually looked pretty dang good. It was interesting to see the looks on people’s faces when we strolled on the combi with those. Stupid gringos.
Today for lunch at the training center the WatSan and Environment group came over and we all had Pachamanca. Pachamanca is a type of food here that is delicious and popular. Basically you dig a hole, put some rocks on the bottom and start a fire, throw in some chicken, potatoes and beans, cover the hole with the dirt in an “organized” way and let it cook. Then you undig the hole and eat. It was sooooo good. We also had real corn bread that rocked my world. I have a little over a week left in the good ole Chaclacayo. I am sad to leave this city, my volunteer friends, local friends and family, but at the same time I am ready for more freedom and independence. I am ready to go and start nesting with my rats, chickens, dogs, roosters, pigs and cats in my new home. I am ready to start working and creating my schedule. But, I will rock Chaclavayo out while I am still here!
One doctor, Sunni, told us a story of how a volunteer called her and said, “Sunni, I was hit by a car.” She replied, “Are you ok?!”
“Yes,” replied the volunteer. “Ok tell me again so I can laugh.” I have the best doctors ever.
We also had a conversation about what type of worm parasites most volunteers get. The presentation included not on only pictures, but an actual stool sample for us to pass around and see a worm. They say every group has volunteers with worms and at the same time we all screamed, “Not it!!!” Then we all took a bet and paid 1 sol and whoever gets the first worm/parasite in our group wins all the money. I haven’t decided if I want to be a winner in this or not. I feel like I might be aiming too high too soon.
I also received my first issue of Pasa La Voz. Pasa La Voz is the Peace Corps Peru magazine that is written by volunteers and for volunteers. It contains articles such as, “The Rules of Naked Glacial Jumping in Peru,” complete with who has the highest amount of counts. There are also articles about the highest number of days volunteers have gone without a shower and why some people smell worse than others. Our doctors did some research on this and found out it depends on the climate and types of food served. There was also a “sanitary quiz.” Don’t worry, I took it and received an ok score. There is room for improvement, but I don’t see that happening soon considering the rainy season is about to start.
A side note on my sanitary habits. I have only been here for two months and I am shocked at myself. Be disgusted if you want, but you don’t live here so you can’t judge fairly. I usually shower about 2 times a week because it’s torture. (Remember…freezing water). I have stopped caring for my hair because I have come to realize it will never look cute, combed, or decent in the country of Peru. I haven’t decided if it has more of a hippie look or gypsy. Rigel seems to think more of a hippie feel…which makes me have a little more attitude when I walk down the street with Led Zeppelin playing on my iPod. As for make-up, just a little eye make-up because my face is now brown from all the sun. Win. My hair is also getting some golden highlights too which really freaks me out. I have a feeling I am going to look like I have fallen out of the jungle if I don’t watch out. Haha. It’s integration right?
Anyway, last night I went to the midnight showing of Harry Potter and it was awesome. I didn’t realize it was coming out in Peru before the USA so I felt a little extra special. Side note though, it was in Spanish, but I didn’t have any trouble understanding. Before the movie me, Kelsey, Nate and Bj made costumes. We all had brooms made out of bamboo with giant leaves taped to it. I won’t lie, they actually looked pretty dang good. It was interesting to see the looks on people’s faces when we strolled on the combi with those. Stupid gringos.
Today for lunch at the training center the WatSan and Environment group came over and we all had Pachamanca. Pachamanca is a type of food here that is delicious and popular. Basically you dig a hole, put some rocks on the bottom and start a fire, throw in some chicken, potatoes and beans, cover the hole with the dirt in an “organized” way and let it cook. Then you undig the hole and eat. It was sooooo good. We also had real corn bread that rocked my world. I have a little over a week left in the good ole Chaclacayo. I am sad to leave this city, my volunteer friends, local friends and family, but at the same time I am ready for more freedom and independence. I am ready to go and start nesting with my rats, chickens, dogs, roosters, pigs and cats in my new home. I am ready to start working and creating my schedule. But, I will rock Chaclavayo out while I am still here!
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