Not your average pet....

WARNING!!! NOT FOR ANIMAL LOVERS OR FOR THE FAINT!!!!!!!! DON'T SAY I DIDN'T WARN YOU!!!

For the past couple of weeks, one of my friends has been complaining about having sleep disturbances. Every night he hears the pitter-patter of little feet scurrying from one side of his one-room to another. His pets, he says, are being naughty and not obeying him when they were expressly told to stay outside. On Monday, he decided that his little pets were just too naughty and something needed to be done to let them know their place. A mixture of pap and galephirimi (translated from Setswana to English: "You won't see the morning") was placed in strategic locations around the room. All that was left to do was wait until the the next day. Somewhere between Monday night and Tuesday morning, my friend reported hearing things in his room shifting and falling from the only table in the room. "Surely", he said, "they [his pets] were dizzy"!

After work on Tuesday, I arrived at his house to bear witness to the specticle of my friend and his cousins turning the one-room upside down in search of what remained of his beloved pets. Both women and children gathered around as the number of mice was announced and bodies were displayed. His younger counsin found amuzement in chasing us around the courtyard with mice carcases. In total, eight mice were found. Yuck!

It's a girl!

Charlene & Lele


There's been an addition to my family. It's a girl. She just arrived a week ago, weighing in at about 5 pounds and some change. She is: sweet, soft, playful, smart, loving, and most of all, cute! Guess what?! She can already talk and is almost potty trained! The first time I even heard about her, I knew that I would love her, cause she's just perfect like that. Oh, you wanna know her name? Well, she's got two: an American and Setswana name, plus several pet names. Her American and Setswana names are Aisha and Boruku bo botelele (long pants), respectively. Congrats are in order to my Setswana Sister for life! Setswana to Setswana! Don't worry mom, I'm just the aunt!

I am HIV/AIDS Affected

I grew up in the 1980's when HIV was first diagnosed amongst gay, white, American men. At that point in my life, I was unconcerned about HIV and AIDS. I was too young and the people effected by the diesase didn't look like me. Why should I have been concerned? For a number of years, my mother worked at the Southeast AIDS Training and Education Center, which is an orgainzation that provides HIV/AIDS information and training to health care professionals. I was exposed to and surrounded by HIV/AIDS information and HIV effected/affected people all of the time. I still wasn't too concerned about HIV/AIDS. It was a theoretical disease to me, something that happened to other people...gay people, IV drug users, people who practiced risky sexual behaviors, sex workers, white people, poor people, older people, them...

The face of HIV/AIDS, the picture of who I thought was at an increased risk for contracting the disease has now started to look too familiar. The face is starting to look like me: A heterosexual, female of African decent. In America, African American women residing in the south are at an increased risk for contracting HIV than women living in any other part of the country. Eighty-three percent of all HIV/AIDS cases are reported amongst women. Forty-five percent of new HIV diagnosis were transmitted through unprotected, heterosexual intercourse. African Amercan women are 19 times more likely than white women to recieve an HIV diagnosis.

In South Africa, the situation is even more grave, and the face of HIV/AIDS still looks like me: young, female, heterosexual, black. Within a four block radius around my office, there are no less than 6 functioning funeral homes. You must ask yourself: How is it that there can be so many, and all of them are still in business? Basic economics: Supply in demand. There are about 1500 new HIV infections occuring each day. It is estimated that half of South African 15 year olds will not live to collect retirement, and individuals in this same cohort have a 56% chance of dying before the age of 60. There are approximately 5.4 million people infected with HIV in South Africa. That represents 11% of the population. One third of women between the ages of 25 and 29 are infected with the virus, and 19% of the work-age population (20-64) is HIV positive.

I am HIV/AIDS Affect.

I now ask: Are you HIV/AIDS Affected too?

World AIDS Day

Mail & Guardian: AIDS report paints bleak picture of youth

Mail & Guardian: Missing childhood, Missing Parents

BBC Report- Case Study: South Africa

Alternative Information and Development Centre

CDC: 2005 HIV Surveillance Report

Class Assignment: Write about how you spent your Thanksgiving Holiday.

This Thanksgiving was one of the best that I think I've had, because I was able to experience the true meaning behind the holiday: Sharing with others. My roommate and I hosted a couple of our fellow Peace Corps Volunteers/good friends up for the weekend, unfortunately, however, our really good friend lost his gogo the week before. We didn't think that we would be able to hold dinner this weekend, because we wanted to support him in his time of need. As I was telling my friends about this dilemma, they suggested that they come anyway, because it is always interesting to experience traditions other than your own...that's what we signed up for by joining the Peace Corps, right? Due to transportation issues, only one person was able to get to here in time enough to leave for the Friday night vigil.

We arrived at Saziso's house at about 5:30 pm, because at 6:00pm, a horn was sounded off to announce the arrival of the casket. As the hurst backed into the driveway, people formed two lines on either side of the walk way, holding candles and singing hymns. The casket was ushered into a bedroom in the main house by several of the many male family members in town for the funeral. Prayers were said, hymns were sung, and there was a great deal of waling took place. Following this portion of the service, people went back to their various activities: cooking in large black pots (because the family provides food to visitors from Friday to just after the funeral on Saturday); chatting; praying; playing around (for the many children); etc.

At about 7:oopm, people started gathering under the tent, which was set up in the front yard, for an all night prayer session/revival. Prior to that starting, plates of pap (corn meal) and tripe were distributed to funeral attendees. Tripe is apparently a customary part of a pre-funeral meal, because a cow is usually slaughtered for the event and the rest of the meat is served at the funeral. My friend and I, along with at least 40 other people sang, listen to the service, danced, etc. My friend Saziso, in addition to being many other things, including a sangoma, is a preacher. So it was very interesting to see him in a different light. It was cool to meet the other preachers that he worked with, as well as a few of his sangoma friends. What an interesting contrast (or at least in my opinion). However, instead of conflicting with one another, the two lines seemed to fit seamlessly together.

Because I've yet to master the "6 to 6" (We've covered this already, remember? Well you would if you've been keeping up with my blog!), periodically, my friend and I would take a nap. I guess you wouldn't really call it a nap, because what seemed like every 5 minutes, Saziso or one of his friends/relatives would come in, turn on the lights, shake us and say "Are you asleep? You should go to sleep!" Thanks guys! We would also be rattled awake if anything particularly interesting happened, like when all of the chairs were moved from the tent, and church goers started to rotate around an invisible center piece, like the moon does around the earth.

Finally, at about 4:30 am or 5:00 am, things started to get somewhat quiet as people started to fall asleep, just to be up by 6:00 am for the funeral. When we "woke up", the day's frenzy was in full swing, and the church service had already commenced. The women were feverishly cooking and serving people. The men were talking and chopping wood for the fire. My friend and I, after the church service ended, followed the crowd and hopped into one of the taxis that had been arranged for the occasion. A short ride to the grave site was followed by a short grave-side sermon, lots of singing and drum playing. Once the service was over, we went back to Saziso's house to eat.

After we returned home, we were able to reunite with our other long lost friends who we hadn't seen in a few months. Being with my friends was like taking a long breath of fresh air. It was great to be able to share my life at site with them. We ate, cooked (we'll get to the menu later), laughed, looked at pictures, watched a few episodes of the first season of the Cosby Show (thanks mom from all of us), told funny stories, and took a much needed trip to the town pool. While at the pool, one of my friends began talking to the lifeguard who was trying his best to hit on her. He said that he had seen me around with a friend of mine. I asked him if I had to date someone at the pool to get in free. I was relieved when he said no, but was told that, next time, just ask for K (I'm protecting my source)! A free dip in the pool anyone?

After coming back from swimming, we did more of the cooking (which didn't seem to end until about an hour after our other friends had arrived). Our appetizer was freshly made salsa and chips. For dinner, we cooked green beans, baked beans, mac & cheese from scratch, a whole chicken and turkey with a garlic and sage base, garlic rolls, pumpkin squash, our famous potato dish, mealies (corn) on the cob, and for dessert, I made my first ever carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. Another friend made his/her delicious apple pie. Yummmmmmmmm!

Tshepo, Saziso, and several of Saziso's relatives (particularly his very attractive older brother Tshepo (don't be jealous girls...you know who you are!) ) and friends came over to share in our Thanksgiving meal. Prior to eating, we gathered around the kitchen island and told the story and tradition behind Thanksgiving. Then we all went around and said what we were thankful for. At first, I thought that might be a bit corny, but it turned out to be the most touching moment for all of us. Our South African friends had only seen/heard about the holiday on T.V. They were all so excited to take part in our festivities, just as we've (PCVs) been to take part in theirs. For the PCVs, that small (or large) part of us that was homesick on this particular holiday was relieved because we were together with old friends and new!

Once people were fat and full, all hell broke loose and we had a great time singing, dancing, laughing, and talking! There was a nice mix of popular South African music (Sista Bethina, the song about meeting the love of your life at the taxi rank, "O nwa, O nwa, O nwa", Dankie my bebeza, and other favorites), American music, and Michael Jackson music (a class of its own). One of my SA friends is a BIG Michael Jackson fan...my fellow PCV won his heart by having a more extensive collection than I do...in fact the whole night, they were wrestling with each other to get to the music fast enough to play their favorite MJ song! Hmmmm. We ended the night with babalas!

The next morning, everyone woke up, said our sad goodbyes until the next time, and the PCV/South African gang headed off to the taxi rank. Saying goodbye at the taxi rank, might I add, is not as romantic as when it's done at a train station, even at the airport. Maybe it's the whole mugging thing you're worried about. Maybe it's that you can't avoid smelling the aroma of rotting food or chicken feet roasting on the spit. So, I digressed a bit...sue me!

After putting my friends on the taxi, I jumped on another one with Tshepo, Saziso, and Montle, headed out to Saziso's...for more "holiday" fun. When I got there, we hung out, chatted, talked, and laughed. Ok...so I'm about to digress again...ready? So I hang out with people who love to drink beer, Castle Lite in particular. Because I don't drink beer and there is always a plethora of beer caps, I need something to entertain myself, right? Saziso dared me at one point to see if I was strong enough to bend bottle caps with the force between my thumb and pointer finger. Let's just say that I more than won the bet. It's become a habit, an addiction of sorts. For the whole of Sunday, Saziso's hot older brother Tshepo picked up on my habit and began to hand bottle caps to me without even thinking about it. At one point, I took a nap because I was exhausted. When I woke up, the thought crossed my mind about what was done with the caps collected while I was asleep. A few minutes later, Tshepo said, "Oh, I've got something for you." He had been saving all of the bottle caps for me...I smiled...ah, the spirit of giving was still in the air! Saziso later told me that he had been bending the caps until Tshepo realized it, and playfully yelled at him for taking the caps he was saving for me...see how they look out!

So, I'm back now...I was sitting with everyone in Saziso's room, when he walked in and called everyone to the front yard where three piles of clothes were resting under the tent. The clothes were his gogo's. The family members remaining after the funeral sat around the tent in silence, facing the front door of the house. The matriarchs of the family were led one-by-one to kneel in the door frame. One gogo (grandmother) took a razor and shaved a small piece of hair from the temples and the nape of each daughter. Another gogo collected it. This is one way to show that you are mourning the loss of someone. Every relative in the family is expected to wear a small blue sash pinned on their shirt sleeve every day for a few months, to show that they're mourning.

Once that ceremony was over, we went back to hanging out, watching movies, talking, and laughing. I was telling some of the men in Saziso's family about the many names I've been giving since I've been here: Lerato Machinini and Zanele (Za Za for short). Because I've somehow endeared myself to this family, Saziso's uncle (the man of the house) gave me a new name: Lebogang (Appreciated) Kototsi. Just now, my friend Tshepo said that, because Saziso's initials are SSK, I need a middle name...Lorraine...don't ask me why this one was chosen! So my full name is Lebogang Lorraine Kototsi (LLK). Call me Totsi for short!

In summary (don't you hate it when people include "in summary" in their concluding paragraph?), I really had a great time this weekend! I'm sure that this weekend will last in the minds of my friends (both South African and American) for a long time, forever for me!

THE END

E is for Intelligence

Just now, I was sitting with LifeLine counselors in the training room at my office, waiting for a guest speaker to arrive so that we could watch a demonstration on how to use the Orasure HIV test kit. Some of the local mines have requested that our organization temporarily supply them with individuals trained in HIV voluntary testing and counseling (VCT). While waiting, we were instructed to go around the room, share one word on how you're feeling, and words that are associated with the letters in our name. When it came to me...well...it went all down hill.

My feeling: O sharp (aka. "I'm cool"...even though that's not a "LifeLine feeling"...I used it anyway).

D-Dimonate (Delicious...my Setswana speaking friends think I'm crazy for that one...because it refers to foods...or something perhaps a little naughty in the Batswana context)
A-Attentive
N- Naughty (In a South African context, that means precotious...Rodha supplied me with that one)
I-Inspiring
E- Intelligent...........(Yeah, I didn't really pass the 1st grade...I made nice nice with the lovely people at Emory so that they would give me my Master's degree. As soon as it came out of my mouth...I knew that I was wrong...the only thing to do was to laugh at myself! And boy, did I laugh! The funniest thing about it is that no one else got it...except Elayna...and she laughed at me too...so from now on, E is for Intelligence)
L- Laughable (for my many, many bloopers)
L-Lovable
E-Embarrassed!

Takin' it back to the old school...in Bapong

(Pictured: Me, Saso, and cousins)

A comment on South African taxis...

First, I must define for you what I mean by taxi, a South African taxi to be more specific. Imagine one of those VW vans...you know the ones I'm talking about...they're often identified with the 1960's, hippies, Woodstock, and free love...yeah, that one...that's what South African taxis look like.

Imagine how loud your 16 year-old brother/cousin/son/nephew/friend might play music in the car right after he received his driver's licence and got to take it out for a spin for the first time alone with four of his friends. You can actually hear the car before you see it. That's how loud taxis are.

Here's a little interactive portion for you: If you know anyone with a mini-van (although a mini-van is too nice compared to a taxi), ask them if you and more than a few strangers can borrow if for about 30 mintues (that's long enough). Gather a group of about 15 people you don't know (who may or may not have taken a bath, potentially have an open wound, not use deoderant yet worked a 15 hour day in 98.6 degree weather, who is carrying about ten bags of groceries and expects you to carry at least 3 of them on your lap, and who might be lactating and will expose you to the maternal process of breast feeding), and sit in the van without the air conditioner on and with only one window cracked.

There must be 4 people in the back row, and at least three people in the other three rows. On the front bench seat, it's the driver, a fairly attractive (or not) young female in the middle (so the taxi driver has someone to hit on for the entire ride, or until she gets out), and another stranger next to the young woman.

Try being the person who sits in the last row next to the window. Now get out of the taxi without anyone kindly moving out of your way.

A Couple Of Things You Might Experience:

On our first trip to Thlabane, to visit our friend Saziso and other co-workers, Elayna and I were given not-so-specific directions to give to the taxi driver, in hopes of getting dropped off on the correct street. Well, the directions, plus our language deficiency seemed like they'd get in the way of actually making it to our intended destination. A call was placed on my phone to Saziso, but after several attempts, things weren't getting any more clear. The phone was then passed to the young lady sitting next to us, in hopes that she might help point us in the right direction. After a 7 minute conversation, she didn't seem any more clear than we were, so without a word, the phone was passed up to the driver (via everyone in the taxi). After a 5 minute conversation, the phone was passed back to me...we arrived safe and sound...a big "THANKS" is in order to all of those ananomyous taxi patrons!

Last weekend, I, along with Elayna, Tshepo, and Saziso took the last taxi headed to Bapong, to visit Tshepo's "compound" (that's for you manqane). After about five minutes out of the taxi rank, a man seated near the back had a loud conversation with the driver. Saso immediately started laughing. We were soon to find out that we were making a short detour to the driver's house...so he could pick up his gun. I'm thinking about going over to his house, now that I know where he lives, and pay a visit to him and his family...I feel a special bond with him...I feel like we met, had a first date, and met the family all in one night...

FOR MORE ON TAXIS AND OTHER SORTED THOUGHTS, VISIT: TOO MUCH TAXI (A big SHOUT OUT to Elayna's friends! I feel like I've had too much taxi too!)

After the storm....

Currently where I am, it's technically "rainy season", yet up until last week or so, there's been little to no rain. Last week, it rained and poured for a few hours, but generally cleared up by evening time. Last Friday, I was hoping to spend the evening on my balcony, reading, eating and sipping on a cold beverage, instead I was first treated to a visual dessert! The sky was overcaste, the sun was setting, and it was just the right temperature. As I was simultaniously reading my current book (Not without laughter, by Langston Hughes) and stuffing a piece of garlic bread in my mouth (courtesy of my neighborhood SuperSpar), something caught my attention: the color of the sky and the seemingly complete stillness around me. The sky was the most amazing mixture of blues and intense yellow. Over the course of the next two hours, the sky evolved into a meadly of pinks, oranges, yellows and reds. All I could do was sit in amazement as I was treated to what seemed like an experimental art show in the sky. I took pictures but it was truly a "you had to be there" moment. Enjoy the pictures anyway, however keeping in mind that it was a zillion times better in the moment.

On living with a PCV...

Sure, I've had roommates before. My freshman year at Spelman College, I had a roommate. My junior year, I had three roommates (six or seven if you counted boyfriends). From senior year in college until after grad school, my best friend Loopy should have paid half of the rent, utilities, and food for as much as he stayed over. Nothing, thus far, has seemed to compare to living with my current roommate/friend/fellow PCV- Elayna.

Elayna has an unusual obsession with cheese. On several occassions, she has assured me that, amongst her friends, she is not so bad. Sure, I like cheese (Cheddar, Feta, Blue Cheese, etc.), but I never really cared about it one way or the other. Ok, well, I lied. I guess I do have something for cheese, particularly when I'm eating certain foods. There was that one time, when I was very young and my grandfather came for a visit. He took me and my brother to Wendy's, stood in a very long line, and ordered a cheeseburger for me. When our order arrived at the table, I was hurt to find that there was no cheese on my burger; a necessary ingredient for the perfect burger! I proceeded to throw a hissy-fit in the middle of the store, and threw it down, insisting that it just wouldn't do. (Ok, I feel a sense of confusion and judgement in your eyes. I know I'm talking about living with a PCV...but it's a nice tangent. Plus, I really wasn't a brat growing up...I promise...don't judge me!). I grew out of the whole cheese thing, but living with Elayna has made me very aware of my daily cheese intake. Cheese is included in just about every dish I eat. F.Y.I. the Super Spar has a nice selection.

Elayna and I think about food a lot. Maybe this is due to the fact that, while in Pre-Service Training, we didn't really have much control over what we ate...we were thrown into a paradigm where pap and chicken feet are king. Additionally, for the first few weeks here, we had to go grocery shopping very frequently, because we had no refrigerator. Tragic, I know. We talk about food to our U.S. family and friends (I've had Cheez-its, Reeses Buttercups, toco kits, etc. sent to me), with each other, and with our co-workers. We talk about food so much at work that I think they think we have eating disorders. They say, "Oh my gosh! Man, you're always hungry."

We've even started to dress alike. This morning, we were busy getting ready for work. I tried on different outfits, first putting on my beige pants and collar shirt. That was cool, but it just wasn't the one. (I'm sure you've had that experience before). I finally decided on blue slacks (to add that professional touch), a light blue collar shirt, black shoes and belt. Five minutes before work was to start, we both walked out of our respective rooms to head out on our three minute treck to work. To our surprise and amuzment, we were wearing the exact same outfit and matching color combination...are we starting to morph into the same person? Luckly, we work at a counseling organization, so if need be, we can get face-to-face, couples counseling.

Integrating into my community...Peace Corps-South Africa style

Well, I’d like to say that I’ve not done anything out of the ordinary; nothing that I wouldn’t have done at home, but with a whole different group of people. On Saturday (October 7th), my roommate (and fellow PCV-Elayna) and I decided that we would throw a braai (BBQ/cookout) for some of our colleagues at the office, just to say what’s up and here we are…you’re stuck with us for two years! Well, as is the tradition with Black South Africans (from what I’ve been told and have experienced) when you say that you are gonna have a braai/BBQ, you are expected to pay for everything, which includes meat, meat, meat, more meat, pap (a tasteless, spongy substance made out of ground corn flour), and a beverage of the alcoholic-type. Well, we bought the biggest piece of steak we could find. It’s called a “Texan steak”. Indeed, it fits along with the myth that is Texas: BIG. We also cooked borewors (sausage-esk links), and of course, chicken. I was the grill master! Additionally, I cooked a cheese and potato dish that I’ve had twice before since being in South Africa. It was lekker fine! (Peel and slice potatoes 6 medium sized potatoes and one onion. In a separate container, add 1.5 cups of milk with two tablespoons of flour. Stir and add to potatoes and onions. Add freshly ground pepper, garlic power, and Laury’s seasoning salt sent from home. Add five to six tea spoons of blue cheese and three or four teaspoons of butter. Bake until potatoes are done at about 350 degrees F. When potatoes are cooked, layer with cheddar cheese, and let melt.) We also had salad and fresh garlic bread (on sale daily at your local Super Spar grocery store). I tell you, we ate like eating was going out of style…and all on a Peace Corps budget! Dijo tse dimonate tata!

The rest of the evening was nothing less than way too much fun! A few more people came, and brought more drinks and music. One of my coworkers brought his CD collection of popular South African dance music, and another guy pulled his car in our yard, put the music in and turned it on blast. We danced and danced and danced the night away!

This past Saturday, we all went out to the township for what we affectionately call a “6-to-6”, where you dance from 6pm until 6am the next morning. Really, it ended up being more like a 6-to-3, but, close enough! I figure I have two years to build up to three additional hours. What a great way to integrate into your community!

Can you tell the difference?

AFTER: YEAH

Before

Other than the clothes and angle of the sun…can you see anything different? Yep, you guessed it…we’re officially Peace Corps volunteers (The first picture...if you couldn't tell). We swore in on September 21st at a local resort in the Mpumalanga Province. Just to catch you up to speed on what you’ve missed over the last few weeks, here are some of the things that happened:

In the afternoon, on Tuesday, September 19th, we all left our host families to move into the camp-like compound we lived in for our first few days in South Africa. I woke up extra early (around 4:30 am) to see my mother off for the last time as she was headed to work. The goodbye wasn’t as long and emotional as you might expect. This, however, is due to the fact that, for the week leading up to this day, my whole family was emotional over my departure. I will miss them a great deal, but plan to see them several times over the course of my two years…Salang sentle!

Wednesday night, the Education and NGO volunteers got together for one last hoorah. I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned this, but when we first arrived in South Africa, we were told to pack a “non-essentials” and “essentials” bag. People initially freaked out about parting with some of their 80 lbs (and more) of stuff, but doing this exercise allowed for less clutter in our host family homes. Interestingly, in my “essentials” bag, I managed to include my swim suit, which is useful in a land locked portion of the country…with no pond, pool, lake, bath tub, or slip-n-slide in sight! Well, I’ve said all this to say that we were finally reunited with our “Pretoria bags” as the “non-essentials” bag came to be known as. It was like Christmas, Presidents Day, and a 21st birthday combined. Over the course of two months, most of us forgot what we even packed in those bags. So on Wednesday night, we were all outfitted in “new” digs, smelling fresh (body sprays that we were separated from, but could have been useful after rinsing off in the dirty water you just washed up in…courtesy of the bucket bath), and with a renewed sense of hope for the future. That night, the party was in my room because I had the loudest speakers…who woulda thunk that such a little box could produce such big noise! The party was fun until my iPod froze…such a sad day! Let’s take a moment to reflect on the joy that an iPod can bring...filling your ears and mind with noises from home……………… The camp compound was divided into “the quiet side” and “the party side.” Really, let’s just be honest and say that the whole compound was “the party side”, because the majority of people stayed up!

Swearing in took place at a local resort. It was an event in and of itself to see the grungy people we turned into over the past six weeks, magically transform into well polished ladies and gentlemen…myself included. I was able to capture the actual swearing in portion of the event on video just in case you don’t believe that I’m now an official volunteer. Yes, you really can call me a Peace Corps Volunteer…I made it!

I can’t believe that time has flown by so quickly. It seems like just yesterday, I arrived in Philadelphia to start this journey. Now, I am about to take another step to coming closer to fulfilling my dream…Peace Corps here I come, or rather…Here I am!

Over the next two years, I will be working with a local organization that provides voluntary HIV/AIDS testing and counseling (VCT) through the efforts of local volunteers. I’m very excited about working with such an organization, because next year, I will start the process of becoming a VCT counselor, which will afford me some of the skills I was looking for in my life prior to the Peace Corps. Additionally, there seem to be several opportunities to become actively involved in several projects, particularly with respect to the new mobile VCT unit and working with the large mines surrounding my community. As I become better acquainted with my organization and my role within it, I’ll make sure to let you know.

Oh, you wanted to know about my living situation as a PCV in the NGO program? Well, let me first say that as an NGO volunteer, housing is usually arranged by the organization, or you will be given the opportunity to find housing (within a budget, of course) for yourself. Depending on your site location and budget, this could mean that you live the “traditional” Peace Corps experience (whatever that is), which could mean living in a rural village, with no electricity, pit latrines (or long drops as they are affectionately called), bucket baths, fetching water from the local watering source, and two years in a thatched roof hut. The other end of that spectrum could find you living in a nicely furnished apartment, in a gated community, in a large metropolitan area, with a gym membership. So, if you are thinking about joining the Peace Corps, expect both the expected and unexpected, because many things are possible.

I’m currently living in a two bedroom, one bathroom flat on the compounds of host family’s house. Sharing my flat is another PCV who will be working at the same organization as I am. We have a bathtub/shower combo, fully functional kitchen, electricity, and lounge. Both my roommate/PCV and I have the option of staying here or finding separate housing.

Well, as I’m sure you’ve noticed, I’ve written enough to keep you busy for a while. If you are going through the nerve wrecking Peace Corps application process, think you might be invited to Peace Corps-South Africa, or just have questions, please feel free to post a comment and I’ll get back to you A.S.A.P.

Tsamaya sentle!

Two days and counting...

Can you believe it? I only have two more days until I officially become a Peace Corps Volunteer...no longer a mere trainee. It seems like the days have alternated between moving by so quickly and not moving by fast enough. Now that the time is almost up, and then time for another stage in this journey, it really has only been a short time in retrospect. Although the time has been short, I've learned a great deal about myself, my fellow Peace Corps trainees, and the people of South Africa. Now that the next stage is fast approaching...I look forward to what the next two years has to offer.

Tonight is the last night I will spend with my host family. I've grow to become an intergral part of their lives as they have in mine. Both the education and NGO trainees will move back into the camp-like compound we lived in upon our arrival in South Africa. Wednesday, there will be a party with the Education and NGO trainees, which will be a blast I'm sure. Thursday is the big day. We'll be joined by U.S. and Peace Corps Officials, along with our site supervisors, to a "light lunch" and a swearing in. The next time you hear from me...I'll be official...

I hope that you continue to read and enjoy this blog and share with me in my journey...until then...Salang Sintle!!!!! (I'll give you R5 if you can guess which of South Africa's 11 official languages that is)...Any guesses?

What I learned this past week.....

I finally learned…in a visual way…what it means to say “the buck stops here.”

Dumelang Abantu!!!!!!!!!!!

I know, I know, it’s been a looong time since I’ve updated my blog….but I have a really good excuse….I’ve been serving as a Peace Corps Trainee (PCT) in South Afrika! Enough said! Thus far, I’m really enjoying myself and am attempting to soak up as much as possible from this experience! I’ve made many friends within both the NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) and Education groups, but unfortunately, contact between the two groups is limited to random meetings at the local shopping plaza. During a much needed and sought after safari to the local shopping center, to upload on the essential items of any PCT (toilet tissue, potato chips, KFC, chocolate, power adapters, etc.), you see people that you know you should know, but haven’t seen in a while…SA-EDU Trainees! Just in case you need an example…so that you can relate to the experience…it’s like running into people you haven’t seen since college at the local Publix (or Shoprite as the case may be). I’m sure my fellow PCTs would liken it to smelling a home cooked meal after being forced to consume cafeteria food during freshman year of college.

In addition to making friends within the Peace Corps group, I’ve made many friends within my local community! Specifically, I’ve integrated very well into my host family and extended family! I’m learning Setswana…although the people in this area primarily speak Ndebele…this is Peace Corps people! My host family has been helping me learn Setswana…even though their primary language is Swazi…hmm. My host mother is great! She makes me laugh all of the time and that really helps to keep from getting homesick! I have family up the street and host brothers/cousins/uncles/aunts that live “on that side” (next door). They are all very protective of me and have so graciously included me into their warm and loving family! Some of my fellow trainees have had ups and downs with their families, but everyone seems to be settling in nicely.

As far as my average day goes, let’s just say that it leaves very little room for personal time or space. I wake up to my morning bucket bath at 6:30am…warm water provided by the tea kettle. My host cousins usually walk with me to school, as their high school is right next to mine. Monday through Friday, I attend language training in Setswana with six other NGO trainees, from 8am to 10 or 10:30am. After language class, we all attend sessions with guest speakers that talk about a range of topics related to NGOs, HIV/AIDS, gender based violence, just to name a few. These “technical sessions” have been hosted in the community “old age center.” We generally have 5 minute (10 to 15 minutes is more like it) breaks throughout the day, and have lunch around 12 or 12:30pm. I live so close to class that I usually walk home for lunch. I either end up eating last night’s leftovers or a PBJ (boy, a PBJ never tasted so good) with the salt & vinegar chips I picked up at the store (aka “tuck shop”). After lunch, it’s back to “tech sessions” until 4 or 5pm. After 5pm, I’ll either hang out with my PC friends and their host families, or hang out with my host cousins until my mom comes home from work.

One of the fun things to do, while waiting for my mom to come home, is explore the community in which I live. This usually consists of climbing one of the many beautiful hills that surround the town. If you take a walk up one of these hills, you seemingly escape to a whole other world full of peaceful silence and a stunning panoramic view. I wish my camera could capture the feeling and the view, but unfortunately digital cameras aren’t that advanced yet.

Ok…now to the fun stuff. Here are just a few things I’ve learned/experienced as a South Afrika-15 NGO Trainee:

Number of Shabeens (bars) immediately surrounding my house that bump music until 5ish am: 3 and counting.

I live in a town with a name no one (not even those who’ve lived here all of their lives) can either spell or say correctly.

Some roosters have a beautiful cock-a-doodle-doo…the rest…you’ll want to tell them to shut up!

My host brother is digging a new hole for the brand new pit latrine, because the current one is full…think about that one!

If you stare at a cow, it will stare back at you! If you stare at a male goat, it may charge you!

Letters I’ve sent to Freckle-maine with the wrong address that he will never receive: 2

Time of day that, according to my host mother, is unsafe to walk on the street in front of my house (or on one of the many hills atop my village, or when one of my host cousins/brothers acts up, or when walking to or from school) because “the Totsi (thugs) will get you!”: Morning, Noon, Night.

Number of people you attract when attempting to hand wash your clothes, that tell you how bad you are at it: at least 5.

You find yourself struggling to keep your eyes open at 8pm, and you and your fellow PCTs discuss how that was staying up “late.”

You watch the same news broadcast in 3 or more languages throughout the evening.

You either get addicted to the soap opera “Generations” or WWF, or both.

Water is not pronounced “water”, it’s pronounced “Wotah.”

At 1 am, you can hear a song from the play “Rent” at the local shabeen...”525,600 mintues….”

Imagine how many times it will take you to wash up in a bucket before you start readjusting your standard of cleanliness.

It is unsafe to visit the latrine after dark, because “the Totsi will get you”, so each individual is outfitted with a bucket in their room for those late night urges…create a visual image for yourself.

My nose is disproportionately darker than the rest of my body.

Most beautiful times of day: Sunrise, sunset, and midnight (you can see every star in the sky, plus the milky way…no, not the candy bar you city dwellers).

The best way to change a blank stare into a smile that will light up a room: Say hello! Lochane (Ndebele), Sanibonani (IsiZulu), Dumelang (Setswana/Sepedi), Hola 7 (slang)!

Well, I’ve written enough! If you want to contact me, leave me a message on this blog, contact my parents for my phone number (if you’re that ambitious), and WRITE LETTERS!

Until Next TIME!!!!!!!!!

Going...going...

and at 5ish pm tomorrow....GONE!

Staging....finalmente!

Hey everybody-

I've finally reached Philly after catching a 6:30 am flight! Yes, that meant that I had to get up (if I ever really went to sleep in the first place) at 3:00 am and be out of the house by 4:15 am to get to O'Hare. Just prior to leaving, my mom, dad, and dog took our last pictures and then lugged my overweight luggage to the car. I got to the airport and finally, it was time to say goodbye to the two most important people in my life...my parental units. Although I tried to keep a stiff upper lip throughout the entire process, it really hit me that I would be saying my final goodbyes for a while. I know, I know, I'm not dying or anything, it's just the Peace Corps. However, I was informed that during the two month Pre-Service Training, I would not have internet or phone service. I've never gone that long without a word from them. I know, however, that we will all pull through and be much stronger when it is all over and done with.

So now I'm in Philly, meeting new faces and finally meeting the people in my Yahoo group. I've sat through informational sessions and have signed my life away to Peace Corps for the next two years. I've now transitioned from an Invitee to a Peace Corps Trainee (PCT). In September, I will be sworn in as an official Peace Corps Volunteer. I'm still not clear as to what I'll be doing and where I'll be going, but I'll make sure to keep you posted.

I know this entry isn't the most spicy bit of gossip (Jay-Pee), but I'm dog tired and have to wake up at the crack of dawn to meet up for another informational session. Wish me luck! I'm not sure when I'll be on next....maybe I'll get a chance tomorrow, but if not...you'll hear from me in a couple of months.

Ya'll come back now, ya here?!

A different kind of packing list....

Wow,

I can't believe that I only have three more days until I head off to the Peace Corps-South Africa staging event. A few months back...oh, let's just say March...I was wondering if I would even have the opportunity to serve. Now, I sit in my wreckage of a room contemplating exactly which sweater to bring and which shoes to leave behind. I keep packing and repacking my bag, hoping that the next time, my suit case zipper will actually close. In some strange way, I feel as though I'm trying to pack my life up in my bags (2 bags hopefully equaling approximately 80 lbs by the time I'm done) so that I'll have everything I think I'll need for a two year stint in an undisclosed location, hoping that I don't leave anything important behind. Inevitably, however, some things will come with me and some things will stay. Maybe I'll forget about that really cute skirt that I wore to that fabulous party in Bucktown, and be so excited when we're finally reunited once I return home. I wonder if that blue blouse with the black dots will even be in style in 2008 (oh, but trust, quality never goes out of style). On the other hand, maybe I'll pine away for those b.a. (mom that's for you) maroon pumps with the zebra tipped toes (no animal lovers...no zebras were harmed in this commercial), and in my first care package from home, they will so kindly be included. Either way, my packing must continue and I'll keep trying until I make it right...hopefully, I'll be reunited with my pumps and all of the other things I left behind soon (granted that no moths eat them, no one else decides to wear them, and I can still find them after being in storage for so long)...12 months is it?

Back to packing........

To sum it up in a word....

Goodgoogleymoogly!!!!

Testing, Testing, 1, 2, 3.....

Hello Everyone-

I've recently received word from the Peace Corps "South Africa Desk" about how and where to contact me while I'm gone...at least for the first two months. When I get word of my permanent site address, I'll make sure to post it. Please feel free to contact me as much (I need letters and care packages people) as you want! I love receiving mail in the states, so this aspect of my being won't change once I'm in South Africa!!!

At least for the first two months of Pre-Service Training, there may or may not be regular communication with me. Yes, I know you're distraught by this news...limited telephone calls, letters, emails, and blog entries...but trust me, it will all work out! When the opportunity presents itself, I'll get a cell phone. If you want the number, email me or contact my parental units.

Ahhh....letters and packages! From prior experience, letters generally take two to four weeks to arrive (more like 3 weeks). If you're expecting a letter from my end, be patient, it should arrive soon (hopefully)! Number each letter/package that you send, so we can collectively know if the mail service (both US and South African) is working in our favor.

If you're planning to send a letter during Pre-Service Training, send it to:

Danielle D. Morris, PCV

U.S. Peace Corps

P.O.Box 9536

Pretoria 0001

South Africa

Packages can be sent through DHL to:

Leah Berkowitz, co/U.S. Peace Corps

Danielle D. Morris, PCV

126 Verdoorn St

Sunnyside, Pretoria

South Africa

DHL will need the telephone number to Peace Corps South Africa: 01127123444255

Well, that's all for now! Later Skater!

Live it up, we could go crazy, live it up, you and me baby...live it up, live it up, live it up!

Hey There-

Long time no see (read)! If you've been following along with the misguided adventures of Dani-Mo, you'd already know that I've been working very hard at having as much fun as possible with family members and friends. Towards the beginning of this month, I had the opportunity to hang out with my Sunday School homeboy Jermaine and his family in Chicago. If I had to pick out the most exciting thing we did, it would be the self-guided tour of the Taste of Chicago, dancing in the park, and getting soaked at Millennium Park (Ok, I know that was more than one thing..more like a list...but it all happened in the same day...so that counts, right?). As a side note, if you've never been to Chicago in the summer time, it is a must do! The city is colder than a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ on a _ _ _ _ _ _ _(fill in the blank) for most of the year, but right along with everything else in nature, it comes alive during the spring and summer months!

On July 3rd, I headed off to the great city of Atlanta, my home town! Getting together and laughing with my family and friends on the 4th of July is something I will always treasure. Ok...here's another side note...every once in a while, when talking to a person who has been in/is in/interested in the Peace Corps, you'll hear about how difficult it is/was to convince family members and friends that joining Peace Corps is better than the many alternatives: not joining Peace Corps, getting a "real job", going off to school, etc. In some situations, parents/friends/significant others believe that they know what is best for the individual, and refuse to accept anything outside of the box they have created. For anyone experiencing this situation, I offer up my full support and encouragement to follow your heart!

I guess that I've been on the lucky end of the spectrum, where I've received nothing less than everyone's full support, regardless of if they understand my decision or not. While I know that I will be miss tremendously, everyone...including the most unlikely characters, know that this is my dream and that it will propel me forward in a positive direction. As I spent time with my friends and family in Atlanta and Chicago, I was enveloped with love and sent along knowing that I have the best support system! I love you all!

Currently, I'm in the midst of livin' it up in Tacoma with my homie Jay-Pee. Thus far, I've been to a couple of high school/AAU basketball games, cook outs, a Rainiers baseball game, a day at and around the Experience Music Project, played a game of Mafia, several games of Spades, watched The Devil Wears Prada, laughed, talked, and laughed a whole lot more! Every time we hang out, there's always something fun going on. I've concluded that good times come along with his infectious personality!I'm constantly reminded of why we are so cool...we're opposites, but ironically, we're soooo similar! Well, anyway, I'm sure that once this trip is (sadly) over, I'll have more to post.

When the opportunity presents itself, I'll make sure to post some crazy pictures!

A time for good byes...A time for new beginnings

Yes, today is my last day as a research staff member at Northwestern University. It has definitely been an insightful journey to learning about myself, Chicago, gang violence, and life outside of being a student.

Yesterday, my co-workers took me out to lunch at a lovely Ethiopian spot in Evanston. We ate, laughed, and talked about what's next in my life, their lives, and the future of the project. I learned a great deal from each one of them, which is something I will never forget.

The day before, I said my goodbyes to some of the staff members at CeaseFire. For about a year, I've lived and breathed gang life in Chicago. I had an amazing opportunity to be exposed to a life I've never known, and grew to respect the people who are putting their lives on the line to make a difference in the lives of others. I wish the program and all of the staff members much success! I will definitely be keeping up with the program!

On to new experiences...

A continuation on the theme: "Life is fine, fine as wine"

Oh, Lil' Miss Missy (and friends),

I must say that I'm at a great station in life (the Sedgwick Brown Line to be exact): I'm headed into my last week on the job; I keep meeting/reconnecting with people in/headed to South Africa; I will have just about a month (from yesterday) until I start one of the greatest adventures of my life; I have an opportunity to spend time with some of the best people I know here and will have the opportunity to do the same with people I know in South Africa; and in general, life just can't get any better!

My Job

I digress. When I received my invitation to serve in Peace Corps South Africa, the remaining time before resigning from my job seemed daunting. There was so much work that still needed to be done and I tried my best not to focus on the end (June 30th), because I wouldn't be able to concentrate on completing it all! And now, the time is upon us!

When I handed in my resignation letter, my boss decided to pull me off of some of the weekly meetings I've been attending since I started working at NU. The move was rather abrupt, and I didn't think there would be an opportunity to say goodbye to the people I've grown to know over the past year. It's interesting to serve as an evaluator of a program. You're supposed to maintain your objectivity, but you can't help but to start believing in what people are trying to accomplish, and connect with people on a more personal level. Last week, my boss walked in my office and said that my co-worker attended the meeting I usually go to, and the reported that the program staff insisted I could not possibly leave without saying goodbye! How sweet! So my boss encouraged me to take off work early one day next week to say goodbye! I'll miss the guys and wish them all the best!

Well, tomorrow will be the beginning of the end of my time at Northwestern University. On Thursday, my co-workers are taking me out to lunch at a local Ethiopian spot! On Friday, I'll have my exit interview and then proceed to roll bounce! I've learned so much about myself as an employee (my strengths and weaknesses), how to evaluate a State-funded program, Chicago, gangs in Chicago, Chicago politics, community policing efforts, and much, much more! I feel blessed to have this amazing opportunity to learn and grow!

Meeting/Reconnecting with People

The Yahoo group I've been a member of for a few months, that is dedicated for invitees soon headed off to South Africa with me, keeps expanding! It's great to have the opportunity to meet a very diverse group of people who share a common goal: serve in the Peace Corps. There are several people in the education program, and many more in the NGO Capacity Builders group (that's the one I'm in). We've all shared some great ideas with each other, comforted each other by knowing that we are not alone, and that there are many people that share our same hopes and fears. We've shared packing lists, made up silly polls for the group to take, exchanged resources, and for the So. Cal volunteers-having a pre-staging meet-up...You guys are oh so cool!

A couple of years back, my mother took one of her students under her wing, and that student (Kristin) went off to serve in Peace Corps Botswana. Last Christmas, Kristin came to visit with me and my friends in South Africa. We had a ball. I remember one night, Kristin, Marissa and I were in the midst of playing a game of Monopoly (I was losing and they ganged up on me...how crazy is that!), and had a craving for McDonald's french fries and hot apple pies! (Oh, you remember those fried apple pies that Micky D's used to serve...nice and crunchy! I was so disappointed that they changed to baked apple pies...just not the same!) We all hopped in the car (pajamas and all) and drove down to McDonald's, ordered Cokes, a few pies, ice cream, and fries (I'm still trying to bring my cholesterol down from that one). The guy at the window was a Bruin-ou...and we proceeded to hit on him until our order was up. Girls' night out, Sherwood style! Well, wasn't that a tangent! Back to the story, Kristin has just finished her Peace Corps service (and a couple of months traveling through South Africa), and will soon be headed back to the states. Soon after she returns, my lovely Kristin will be coming to Illi for a visit! I'm so excited and am so very proud of her and all that she's accomplished! Kristin M U, if you're reading this...You go girl!

The summer between my freshman and sophomore year at Spelman College, I participated in a program called Operation Crossroads Africa (this is also when I met my best friend Loopy Gurdlekisser), and went to Tanzania. In the Tanzania program, there were three groups. In one of the groups, I met a really cool guy! We kept up for a while, and I got a chance to visit him right before he headed off for his own stint in the Peace Corps...interestingly, he went to South Africa. Unfortunately, we lost track of each other, but with the help of a little post in one of my Yahoo groups, I found him...and he's still in SA! How great is that! So, hopefully, we'll be able to catch up when I'm there. I always did enjoy his insight, and look forward to hearing more!

An update on pre-staging plans

June 30th-July 2nd: The S.S. Jay-Pee and Ms. Pink Gloves will be in town!

July 3rd-5th: Headed to the Dirty-Dirty to visit my friends and family. On the 4th my uncle is having a cook out...and can't wait cause he makes the BEST desserts! Some time while I'm there, I'll be hooking up with Jessy-Wessy, Caroline, and hopefully Anna Banana. I'm gonna kick it with my brother and his friends (more like brothers), and see many more people!

July6th-10th (or later): I'll once again get to show Jay-Pee what happens when you put the Dirty-Dirty in Illi and give it a little 253/206 love! I'm also gonna kick it with the favorite homie Chris Cross Your Heart! Oh, so much fun!

July TBD: Kristin will come for a visit! KMU, I hope you're bringing lots and lots of pictures! Neci and Kye Hannah will be coming for a visit too! We love you with all of our hearts! I think the plan is to spend the day at the American Girl's store...we'll see about that one! Some of the wonderful ladies I've had the pleasure of meeting are gonna meet up for a good-bye dinner! How nice! My brother and Christina will be coming for a visit, but I'll see them in the ATL when I get there. I'll finally sell my sweet precious Candy. Packing, re-packing, and just a little more.

July 24th-26th: Philadelphia for staging.

July 26th: Headed to New York (where I'll meet up with Loopy for the last time in a while) and then to Pretoria, South Africa.

Wow...as usual, I get long winded, so I'll stop right there. I'll make sure to keep you updated on all of my adventures!

Staging Update!#$@%

Ahh, the gloriousness of Peace Corps! Don't cha just love the way they keep you waiting with baited breath and anxieties out the so-on-and-so-4th, 5th, 6th, to find out their next move?! Oh, so I guess you want to know what has caused me say such things. Well, after coming home for a mid-day refresher (eating lunch at O'Brians and a walk to the bike store with the parental units) on Saturday, my mother grabbed the mail on our way to the crib. As she looked through the short stack (none of which is ever for me...except bank statements...student loan people...and the random bill...boring!), I was notified that I had a package...and it was from the Peace Corps...my staging packet!

As you know, we've covered the whole "staging" conversation a few posts ago, so I won't digress. I opened the packet, which included a pile of papers and a CD. One sheet in particular, was the itinerary for staging...which is supposed to be set for July 17th...or at least that is until the Peace Corps changed the date to July 24th leaving out of Philly (I was right after all)! No problem-o...oh...oh...goody two shoes...that means that I have extra time to fit in visits with the family and friends! This also gives me the opportunity to procrastinate about everything from selling my car, getting a power of attorney written up so that my parents will once again be my legal guardians (is this progression or regression?), spending a few more days of quality time with my favorite pup-cake and parents, eating my favorite foods, hangin' out with the girls, chattin' it up with Jeb and Jay-Pee, and a few more days to do nothing if I feel like it (or don't feel like it...I'm not sure which one)!

The next thing I need to do is call the Peace Corps travel agency, to book my flight out of Chicago to Philly. Oh, and that also means that I'll be headed out of Philly to NYC on July 26th, then to Dakar, Senegal for a short lay-over, and then to Jo'burg. Can I add a cha-ching to that schedule...more Delta frequent flyer miles for me. I already have more than enough to take an international flight anywhere in the world...beautifully coveted frequent flyer miles!

Life is fine, fine as wine!

Peace Corps Nomination Party

Yours Truly

Me and the Parental Units after the Peace Corps "Nomination Party"

Hey,

Today, my parents and I attended the annual Peace Corps "Nomination Party" hosted by the Chicago recruiting office, which was held at the Mexican Fine Arts Museum. The first part of the meeting included a question and answer section, where audience members (full of interested people, family members of currently serving volunteers, invitees who have already received their assignments, and those in the application process) asked questions of a former volunteer, her parents and another couple who's three children served. Very interesting.

Next, family members in the audience were asked to go to the front of the room and introduce themselves, as well as talk about their family members' assignments. I thought that my mother would be eating up their words, because she had her little pen and paper out to take notes. Well, I was kinda wrong, because instead of taking notes, she was doodling like a high schooler in 5th period American History class. Over dinner, I realized that she was actually paying attention, or at least she remembered enough to pretend like she was listening.

Once the parents were finished, and were handed a Peace Corps coffee mug, everyone in the audience who has received an invitation to serve, a project, and leave date, were asked to go to the front of the room and say: their name, program title, and departure date. There was one lady who called herself "older", one other African American female going some where in Eastern Europe, a bunch of seemingly recent college graduates, and an older married couple. Instead of getting cool coffee mugs (even though I don't drink coffee and prefer sweet iced tea...which is served in a nice tall glass), we were given a Peace Corps key chain and luggage tag. When I took my seat, I told my dad that I was happy I got the luggage tag, because that was $4.00 that I didn't have to spend...is Peace Corps making me cheap?

The president of the Chicago Returned Peace Corps Volunteer group spoke about her respective organization, and informed all of the invitees that the group awards grants for volunteer projects. I'll make sure to keep her number!

Finally, after the event was over with, I ran into one of the family members who stood up with the first group. She was a really nice African American lady whose 70 year old aunt is serving in the Peace Corps in a country close to South Africa. It was great talking to her, and look forward to connecting with the aunt while I'm serving...see, I'm already starting to make connections.

I'll keep you posted as more things occur...I guess this is a nice way to say I'm tired and sick of typing...so I'm going to practice looking at the back of my eyelids. Until next time!!!!

Packing Conversation (Part II)

As you may or may not know, I am a member of several Yahoo groups dedicated to Peace Corps. One group is for anyone interested in Peace Corps (current/returned PCV, interested, nominated, invited, applicants, you name it!), Returned Volunteers from South Africa, and others who have been invited to serve in South Africa (about 15 of us that we know of)...in short: peacecorps 2; [sa-RPCV]; and [sa2006pcts].

The [sa2006pcts] have made contact with current and former South Africa Volunteers in the [sa-RPCV] group, asking about everything under the sun, including packing advise and tips. Yesterday, I was reviewing all of the packing tips, which got me into the packing mood...my parents keep telling me not to wait until the last minute. After creating a list based off of what I've garnered, my mother so graciously ushered me around to a couple of different stores (Costco/Target) in order to get what I needed. After last night, I feel closer to being ready to hop on the plane...as well as closer to being broke...which isn't a good feeling...sooooo, if you feel like donating to the cause, I won't complain!

Remember, this is my tentative list...it sounds nice in theory when stuff is outside of my bag...but in the bag is another story. Also, many of these things are small...so right now, I have two nearly empty bags when all of the stuff is inside...but like I said, we'll see! I'll keep updating it until I leave for Staging. Things written in bright red still need to be purchased.

Toiletries (This section is complete)

Palmer's Cocoa butter (2 bottles)
Tooth brush (3)
Tooth brush holder (1)
Tooth paste (2)
Dental floss (2)
Retainers (2)
Suave roll-on (2)
Women's once-a-day vitamins (1)
Q-tips and cotton balls (1 box each)
Pumice stone (1)
Razor, plus razor heads (4)
Neosporin (1)
Rubbing Alcohol (1)
Hand Sanitizer (1)
Sewing Kit w/ extra needles (1)
Safety Pins
Lent brush (1)
Mini tissue packs (8)
Cherry chap stick (6...to feed my addiction)
Body soap (4 bars)
Noxema face bars (3)
Soap container (2)
Sanitary napkins (an heir and a spare package)
Brush (1)
Ponytail holders (lots...to manage what months of missed hair cuts will not)
Bobby pins (lots...to strap down my thick hair)
Shampoo (need)
Conditioner (1)
Tide (small bottle)
Handy wipes (1 package)
Fingernail clippers
Make-up (limited...I don't wear it much here and don't think I'll pick up on the trend there)
Tweezers (not for the eye brows)
Small mirror
Loofah
Glasses (2 pair per Peace Corps' request)
Glasses cleaner (3...I loose them)
Glasses repair kit (need)
Sunglasses
3 month supply of perscriptions (per Peace Corps' request)

Packing/Camping Gear

Compass (to guide me to the nearest Nando's)
Osprey Arial 65 camping pack
Large suitcase
Book bag
Books (hopefully you generous people will buy a book for me off of my wish list)
Bag locks
Water proof backpack cover
Tent
Ziploc bags (gallon/sandwich size)
Nalgene water bottle (2- one wide mouth and one small mouth)
LED flash light
Sleeping bag
Full size bed sheets
Pillow
Laundry bag
Towel set
Scissors

Entertainment

iPod
Lonely Planet South Africa guide book
Lonely Planet Southern Africa guide book
Solio solar charger for phones and iPod
iPod speakers
Back up battery pack
Ear buds
Map of the world
Laptop
Back up battery
Rechargable Batteries
Cell phone (unlocked 900/1800 band)
Thumbnail drive
System back up disks
Digital camera
Camera batteries (2)
Memory cards (2)
Scrabble
Playing Cards (3-4 decks...Uno too...even though I don't remember how to play)
Pictures (My dad and I are going to look through the volumes of pictures we have and put them on disk...to be printed out soon)
Soccer ball (for host family children)
Atlanta and Chicago memorabilia (for host family)
Index Cards (for language training)
Pens/Pencils
Sharpie Markers
Note pads
Envelopes
Journal (to write everything I won't put on my blog)

Clothes (Yet to be determined...but I already own what I'm bringing)

Northface Fleece (Polkadot Pink)
Black Jacket (1)
Marmot Waterproof Jacket (1)
Gloves
Scarf
Hat
Long johns (2)
Sports socks (16)
Dress socks (black/brown)
Thermal socks (2...damn...I'm bringing a lot of socks!)
Workout pants (1)

I'll miss you most of all...Stinky Stinky Fat Cupcakes!

I knew that you were mine even before I met you at six weeks old. I met you, along with your birth mom, brothers and sisters. I said to myself: I wanted you to choose me. There was a really cute puppy that I just knew would be mine, but as usual, you want what you want when you want it. As I was holding this sweet ray of sunshine, I felt you tugging at my shoe strings...it was love at first sight!

Fast forward through your puppy years: your childhood friend Cowboy, sliding into the beveled glass window a few times, running away only to return at 4 am the next morning without your collar on, loosing your puppy teeth, jumping in the Chattahoochee River (stand up fool, stand up), and so many other memories.

You watched me go away to college. I watched you take your first plane trip to Chicago. You watched me through the windows by the front door as I'd get in the cab headed for a flight back to Atlanta. I've watched you as you bark, kick, and scratch while you're asleep.

Now you're a senior citizen, a card carrying AARP member, leaky potty boy, calm, cool, collected, distinguished gentleman. I love you and I'll miss you when I'm away! Hold it down in the Chi my boy!

Take a tour of the S.S. Jay-P...check!

Ladies, this is how you do it: Have him cookin' you breakfast with a smile! Whip that batter Jay-Pee...and I want some bacon and eggs too!

And the rest of the night was a blur!

Me and Jay-Pee out with Mary and AJ at the Ram

Hey there,

You're back...I guess that means you want to hear more about what I've been up to...with only a few weeks remaining before the big move to ZA! If you remember the agenda that I included a few posts ago...you would know that this weekend I was in Tacoma, Washington, visiting my friend Sunday School Jay-Pee (the S.S. Jay-Pee for short)! If I could sum my trip up in a word (which I don't think is possible): Wow (for everyone); "Be my bass...a boom boom" (for Jay-Pee). I knew he was cool (from the many, many, many conversations we've had), but he is even better in person! We laughed, ate (he cooked pancakes, bacon, and eggs one morning and a noodle, broccoli, and chicken dish after I requested that we eat a meal with veggies), went drinking with AJ and Mary, worked on little to no sleep, hung out with (his) friends and family, listened to a lot of music, did the SpongeBob Squarepants dance (me) and the extra special E-40 dance (him), saw "The Break Up" and had to wait in the movie theater parking lot while Jay-Pee locked me out of the car and drove around just for a few laughs, played cards with Uncle Zack and Michele (and got a beating...thanks a lot Jay-Pee), watched the "Pink Gloves" play and win, gave a personalized-midnight concert, laughed and listened to him play the trumpet at 3 am while everyone in the house was asleep, went to Seattle and watched a neuvo-Janice Joplin dance to a live blues band, and laughed a whole lot more!

Why is it that time seems to move so quickly when you're having sooo much fun? Before I knew it, my long weekend was up (Friday-Sunday), and was dreading the thought (or reality) of leaving...which is why I'm very, very happy that it worked out that I stayed until today...and had even more funny experiences! Hopefully, I'll be able to make an extra trip out there for more fun in the sun...well, overcast sky and light drizzle. If I didn't have to go back to work...I'd still be there...but alas...all things must come to an end...but not in this case...it's just the beginning!

Wanna hear some of the music we listened to? (PBJ...you're teasin' me...lol)

,

Resign from my job...Check!

Little Miss Missy,

You knew it was coming...the day that I would really have to show my commitment to Peace Corps...accepting a vow of poverty (going from a salaried job to a volunteer's stipend) for the next twenty-seven months. Yes, today is the day that I turned in my letter of resignation, with my last day being June 30th. I think I rehearsed what I would say to my boss a million times. I even examined the situation and all of its possibilities in role play exercises: Me (as me), Me (as my boss), Dad (me), Mom (boss), Dad's friend (me), Loopy Gurdlekisser (boss), Medin (co-workers), Emma...girlfriend of Medin (boss), Me (as me again)...oh, ok...you get the picture.

As much as I role played, worried, dreamed about resigning, talked about resigning, drew pictures of resigning, I was still shaking in my boots (black mary-janes) when I went to do to deed. You see, I have an overwhelming sense of loyalty and sometimes guilt (which I plan on sharpening so I can turn it around and use it to get my future children to do the dishes...just playing, well, maybe not), which made it difficult to leave my job after I committed to it...but I've been told that it happens all of the time...and maybe next time, it won't be so dramatic (at least on my end). When speaking to my boss, I pointed out that I really enjoyed my job, liked the people I work with, learned a lot, etc....but I've got to fulfill this dream of mine...joining the Peace Corps! In the end, she was very supportive of me and wished me well. Now, I'll focus on tying up loose ends at work...and at home...six more weeks until I'm ZA bound!

BBQ'd Out!

One of the things that I included on my agenda (mentioned in the last post) was to show the world I had command of a grill, but I think it should read more like: Show the world that, if you put in the least amount of effort, you too can gain weight by being a Memorial Day BBQ groupie.

On Saturday, my homegirl and I hosted a BBQ at my house, and about twenty or so people showed up. Even though that doesn't seem like a sizeable crowd, it sure did look the part on my small patio! In fact, it was busting at the seams, and if any more people were to have showed up...I might have ended up on the grill.

Sunday (which really seemed like a Saturday) was spent in the hundreds (and if you're from Chi city, you'll know what I'm talking about), with a couple of friends. There was a lot of food and even more trash-talkin' over the seemingly endless games of spades (Joker, Joker, duce, duce...ATL style), and gin!

Monday was spent on one of the south shore beaches with a bunch of old and new friends. Chef Yulanda and Felicia threw down with the corn (Yomika is still waiting on hers), hamburgers, beef ribs, and "grown-folks" snow cones! Mmm, Mmm good!

Ahh...while I'm supposed to spend my time, on this day, reflecting about all of the people that fought for this country...my nose won't let me stop dreaming about ribs, cakes, pies, fish, hamburgers, watermelon, baked beans, and potato salad.

52 days and counting...

In 52 days, I will be headed off to Peace Corps staging, presumably in Philadelphia! Ohmigoodnessgollygracious, time is moving so quickly! Just last month, or even at the beginning of this month, the days seemed to be dragging on and July 17th seemed soooo far away! Now, my leave date is right around the corner and I still have so much to do! Well, thanks for visiting my...oh, you want to know what I have to do, in order to leave? Ok, here it is (keeping in mind that things will be added to the list as we go):

Today: Get a whole lot of work done for my job! All I do is work, work, work!

Saturday: Showin' the rest of the world that I have command over a BBQ grill!

Monday: Get up early and start getting ready for work, smile and realize that today is Memorial Day, and roll back over to continue my Peace Corps dreams.

Tuesday-Thursday: Work, work, and more work...ugh!

Friday, June 2-Sunday, June 4: Headed out to Tacoma, to visit my former Oklahoma City-Redeemer Lutheran Church-Sunday school buddy, Jay-Pee (with an emphasis on the Pee). I used to see him during my yearly summer pilgrimage to the grandparents', that is until he and his family moved to Florida. We lost touch from at least my stint in Jr. High School to the end of grad school...what is that, like 11 years? Well, while in OKC visiting her dad, my mother ran into him...and gave him my number. We we've been fast friends ever since...and now to my long-awaited trip...cause I've been telling him I'd visit him for a year now... Really, this trip is more of a site seeing tour, seeing as how he is the first African American I knew with red hair and freckles (think the Black male version of Pippi Longstockings). I will be posting pictures!

Some time between June 5 and 9: Submitting my resignation for my job...which would make my last day June 30th!

Friday, June 16: Complete the last portion of my Peace Corps medical application. I know, I know, I told you that I was medically cleared a long time ago. Well, I was, but the PC medical application lasts for one year from the date you first submitted it...which is why I'm leaving before October 2006...so I don't have to go through the whole process over again. My dental clearance however, has expired, so I need to get a check up to say I have good teeth...I do, I really do. Actually, I had my first appointment on May 15th, but I have to replace a filling that decided it had enough of me...and left the building! So after my appointment on the 16th, I'll Fedex the PC my form...and I'll be ready to hit the road running.

Some time between June 5 and 30: Selling my dear sweet Candy! I'll miss you girl!

June 30: MY LAST DAY ON THE JOB!!!...although I've really enjoyed working here. It's not too often that someone can say that they really love what they do! I'm one of those people! I've met so many wonderful people and have gained valuable work experience...but joining the PC is something I've wanted to do for so long, and it will hopefully take me far (in my personal life, work life, spiritual life, etc.)! I've gotta do this for me!

July 1-17th: Pack, visit friends, say my many goodbyes, bask in the ultra violet UV-PC rays, and visit every restaurant that I've grown to love here in Chicago (soooo many...sooo many)!

I'm sure things will be added to the list...I'll keep you posted!

Packing Conversation (Part I)

Good mornin' everybody! In case you were wondering, yes, I've started packing, or at least I've started to think about what I need to pack. In the volunteer welcome CD-rom, the Peace Corps provides a very general packing list comprised of suggestions from former volunteers. At first, I thought I was going to wait to buy all of my supplies until I had the cash I would make from parting ways with my beloved car Candy, but my mom encouraged me to stretch the process out over a longer period of time. Oh, I think I'll take the (hopefully) easy route and sell my car to Carmax. I hope I get a decent enough price on her...we've shared so many memories (trips to Tallahassee, Orlando, S. Carolina, Savannah, Chicago, all around the city of Atlanta). I'll always love and miss you Candy Girl, you've seen me through good and bad times! Before we part, I'll be posting a picture of my dearest friend!

Toiletries

On Thursday, May 18th, while I was trying to kill time until my friend Chris' delayed flight landed at Chicago O'Hare, I went over to the local friendly Target, in order to by new socks, undies, and toiletries items. After connecting with a few current and former South Africa PCV, I was told that bringing lots of quality undies is best. I'll be making a trip out to a jockey outlet soon! Here's what I've bought thus far (remember this is only a preliminary list. I will be providing a link to the complete list later):

Palmer's Cocoa butter (2 bottles)
Tooth brush (2)
Tooth paste (2)
Dental floss (2)
Suave roll-on (2)
Women's once-a-day vitamins (1)
Q-tips and cotton balls (1 box each)
Pumice stone (1)

Packing/Camping Gear

On Sunday, May 21st, my dad and I went down to our local Erehwon (No Where spelled backwards) and bought a few other items. I already have a small tent (for the occasional camping trip and visiting other volunteers), and sleeping bag:

Compass (to guide me to the nearest Nando's)
Osprey Arial 65
Water proof backpack cover
Nalgene water bottle (2- one wide mouth and one small mouth)
Solio solar charger for phones and iPod

Clothes

Contrary to what many of you may believe, South Africa can be a very trendy and fashionably conscious place. Yes, I need to bring sturdy clothes because I'll probably be doing a lot of hand washing, but the cuteness factor is very important. As much as I love Urban Outfitters, Paper Denim& Cloth jeans, etc., I'll need to get cute clothes that can stand a beating. Any suggestions on where to go? Also, I won't be packing clothes for two whole years, I'm going to be able to buy plenty of things there.

During staging and while working at my new job, I'll need to dress professionally (more so at my job), so I need to find a few pieces that can serve as multiple outfits.

From experience, I know that it can get pretty chilly (30's F and 40's F in some places), so I will need to bring a jacket or two. I already have a black North Face fleece, but I guess I've grown a little bit since 10th grade (or it shrunk a little), so the sleeves ride up 1/3 of my arms when I lift them. To fix that little problem, I bought a new North Face Denali (polkadot pink) fleece. I have a water resistant North Face shell that will go over the fleece when I need it. I also need to get a good pair of walking/running shoes (although I can't jog to save my life, I figure I have plenty of time and opportunity to start), flip flops, and hiking boots.

Well, that's all I have for now. Like I said, I'll be posting a more complete list later that can be found on the side toolbar. Check ya later!

I told you, Langston Hughes is my favorite!

A Dream Deferred

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up
like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?

Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.

Or does it explode?

P.S. A pause for the cause...do you have any dreams deferred? Today is a new day, what are you gonna do with it? Me, I'm going to the Peace Corps...a dream no longer deferred!

One of many moments of clarity...

Yesterday, I just happened to wake up at the un-godly hour of 5:00 am. The television was on the Oxygen channel, because I fell asleep watching an episode of Living Single, that comes on between 11:00 pm and 12:00 am. I woke up to several strangers wearing earth-tone colored clothes, while the creepy instructor walked around and pressed participants' already contorted bodies into positions that not even Barbie can do (my tortured African American-like Barbie doll's claim to fame was that she could hold her legs in a V-position without even breaking her toothy smile)! Well, anyway, back to the subject of my post. As I was in the act of visualizing that I was one of those earth-toned-clothes-wearing-people, I became lost in the strange, hypnotic, and somewhat distant-feeling yoga background music. For the first time, I felt somewhat like a stranger in anther time and place, maybe the way I'll occasionally feel while serving in the Peace Corps...a new and different language (hopefully), a new set of cultural rules, new people, etc. Ok, this feeling may be attributed to the fact that I was not yet fully awake...yet feeling unfamiliar and my images of Peace Corps collided that morning. I said to myself, "Oh my gosh, I'm going to the Peace Corps...in South Africa...in 61 days!!!" (But I've said that phrase about 3 quadrillion times since I received medical clearance...that's why the title of my post is "ONE OF MANY moments") I guess that the comforting aspect of that in-between feeling, is that I'm looking forward to the range of feelings that will undoubtedly present themselves during Peace Corps. I hope those feelings encourage positive growth over the next few days, months, and years!

Activity 1: Close your eyes (well, not if you're operating an electrical item or mechanical vehicle) and recall one of your "moments of clarity." What were the circumstances surrounding the moment? How did that it make you feel (my favorite question)? Explain.

Activity 2: Watch the Oxygen channel during the weekdays at 5:00 am, and tell me if I didn't hit the nail on the head, in terms of describing the yoga instructor, his behavior, and the clothes everyone is wearing.

Activity 3: Make sure to visit the links on my blog, particularly the one about buying a book (or DVD) for your favorite Peace Corps soon-to-be Trainee. Pass my blog link to your friends, family, co-workers, and next door neighbors. Make suggestions, if you please, on ways to improve my blog. At the bottom of each posting, feel free to make comments!

A moment in the lives of best friends Loopy Gurdlekisser and Zippy Burgurbuns

Here's a typical conversation...well not typical...just weird...ok...typical!:

Loopy: they said, "your buddy is typing" but you're more than my buddy. you're my soulmate

Zippy BB: awwwwwwwwwe

Zippy BB: you are my soulmate too!!!!!!!!!!

Loopy: OH! did i tell you there was a stevie wonder party the other night? they played stevie all night...it's supposedly one of the hottest parties every year. this was the eighth one...i didn't go, though. i wanted to. iknow. it's the only way you can be mine

Zippy BB: that's why i love you like i do and i miss you and all of the things we did together. life isn't the same!

Loopy: it's not at all

Zippy BB: no!!!!! awe...I miss you!!!!

Zippy BB: did you go to the site? did you see the links?

Loopy: yeah

Loopy: but now the dissertation you wrote is gone

Loopy signed off at 4:33:46 PM.

Loopy signed on at 4:34:01 PM.

Zippy: your aim has issues

Loopy: it does

Zippy BB: click on the map and you can get lots of detail on south africa

Loopy: right...i see

Loopy: oooh, maybe when im teaching next year we can do a video chat with you

Zippy BB: oh...if you're teaching...i can do penpals...

Zippy: let me know...and that could be an activity...i write a letter...you can teach a lesson on peace corps and south africa...or whatever else

Zippy: and get them to write letters to me

Zippy BB: or discussion on the topic, etc.

Loopy: or...they can correspond with students at a school near you

Zippy: yes...that would be even better

Zippy: how great would that be!?

Loopy: it would be a really good thing for them

Loopy: and it opens them up to the idea of peace corps

Loopy: tell your mom i smoke cigarrettes

Zippy: sure will! hey...i'll call you later

Zippy: i gotta run

Loopy: okay

Zippy: bye loveliest

Loopy: bye grooviest

Loopy signed off at 4:41:23 PM.

P.S. Yes, I will openly admit that I'm an America's Next Top Model fan (although I've missed several episodes this season)! I just wanted to express my sincere gratitude to the Lovely Miss Twiggy, Miss Jay, the other Miss Jay, the noted fashion photographer Nigel Barker, Tyra Banks, and the guest designer (and his translator-I don't think she was really translating what he said, for her, I think it was personal) for: 1) Kicking off Jade (what a pain), and 2) Making the right choice to deside that Danielle from Little Rock, is not a mere "runner up to becoming America's Next Top Model," but THE NEXT AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL. Oh...P.S.S. I don't want you to think I'm partial to her because we share the same name!

Hamburgers, hot dogs, hustle your buns, mustard, mayonnaise, CATCH-Up (on my PC application process that is)

Well, as many of you know, I've wanted to join the Peace Corps for a loooong time. For those of you asking yourself, "What's the process like?", I can give you a very fuzzy recount of my experience. I actually started the whole application process around November 2004, which included a lengthy online application, two essays, and a lovely interview with a recruiter in the Atlanta office. A few days (or weeks) after my interview, I received a password and ID, in order to check my application status. On November 30, 2004, I received an email, notifying me that my application toolkit was updated: Yeah, I was nominated for the Peace Corps! You ask: "When and where are you going?" I respond: "Hold on Little Miss Missy! Patience, Patience!" (Which is a word you will grow to love and hate during the application process and beyond!)

The next step in the process was going through financial, medical, dental, and legal clearances. Essentially, you'll have to divulge all of your financial obligations (ie. those dreaded student loans you're trying to avoid paying, that huge credit card bill you racked up buying your iPod with all of the accessories, three outfits you bought that made you look like a not-so-perfect replica of a Victoria's Secret model, and the cell phone call last month to your new friends in China at peak airtime, etc. ), complete and painfully detailed medical and dental clearance (from the rare pre-Jesus and the saints hop-scotch disease you had last summer, to the chemical make up of the dirt under your finger nails!), and your legal history (ie. the conviction on your driving record for going 2 miles over the speed limit, because you were rushing home to see who got booted off of this week's episode of America's Next Top Model [ANTM for you hardcore fans]) Boy, I tell you...after going through a Peace Corps application process, you'll know if you've been naughty or nice!

Ok, so it usually takes 9 months to a year to complete the process, but as you can see...I had a doozy of a time in the wanna-be-Peace Corps-applicant waiting room, but alas...here I am! Now I can give you exact dates...because the rest of my application process is in recent history. On February 21st, I sent the lovely Peace Corps Medical Office the information they requested...and after what seemed like months of waiting (ok, I'm exaggerating), I received a phone call from the nurse saying that I AM MEDICALLY CLEARED [March 3rd, 2006]!!!!! YEAH!!! From that point on, everything has moved so quickly.

After the phone call saying that I was cleared, I was forwarded to my extremely friendly Placement Officer [PO]. He reviewed my chart and said that he thought I would be a great candidate for a particular program, and that he would send me to the Africa country desk, and they would send my resume off to whom ever...and I should hear from him soon. Well, a couple of days later [March 6,2006], my PO said that he wanted to send me to some place in Africa (because that's what I requested in my online application)...noting that it's going to be in a country I've already visited and I would be working with a non-governmental organization [NGO] that focuses its efforts on HIV/AIDS prevention. That could only mean one of two places: Tanzania and South Africa. All bets were on South Africa. After comparing the health positions in both places..I'll let you be the judge!

Being as excited as I was (and still am), I called my PO at the beginning of every week, wanting to know if he'd heard any news about my placement. I also harassed my best friends, family members, friends of friends who didn't even know I was applying for Peace Corps, my dog, and random strangers...asking them to place nickel bets on what day I'd receive my invitation. Just when I thought I couldn't wait any longer, I came in to work and checked my email...The Peace Corps has updated my application toolkit on March 27th, 2006...I've been INVITED and my invitation packet is in the mail! I received my invitation packet via FEDex on March 29, 2006...SOUTH AFRICA!!!!!!!!!!! In the packet, I was told that I had ten business days to review my packet and assignment, and accept my invitation. Of course you know I was gonna accept the invitation...even if they were planning to send me to East Hell! I called the Peace Corps "Africa office" on March 31st, and accepted a placement of South Africa. In the packet, we had information about personal property insurance, a general description of my assignment as a "HIV/AIDS Capacity Builder," and a CD rom and Volunteer booklet, which provided information about serving as a PCV in South Africa.

As many of you know...I have been involved in a long distance love affair with South Africa, ever since I participated in a program called International Human Rights Exchange, that took me to Cape Town...and later Durban. Since then, I've become extremely close with my roommie in the program and her entire family, and have visited just about every six months to a year. I've watched her relationship with her then boyfriend blossom into a loving marriage, I was one of the first to receive news of her pregnancy (the same day I arrived in Durban, while chowing on my favorite chicken wrap with peri peri sauce and a side order of chips [french fries for all of you American folk] from Nando's...mmm...are you hungry yet?), I've counted all of her son's glorious fat rolls, and have shared many of the joys and sorrows that life brings! SOUTH AFRICA...HERE I COME!

Again, you say: "Umm...You know that South Africa is a really BIG country, right? WHERE in South Africa are you going...exactly!?" I say: "Little Miss Missy, didn't we review the concept of patience a few paragraphs before?!" Here are the next few steps to getting started on my Peace Corps journey:

Staging: I'm slated to leave for staging (meet with all of the people going to your particular country, for a few days of getting-to-know-you exercises, shots, rules, regulations, etc.) on July 17th, and will fly out to South Africa on July 20th! I've been in contact with a few of the people leaving with my group, and thus far we've come up with: Philidelphia, New York, Miami, D.C. , and Atlanta. Do you think we've covered the whole east coast yet? I'll keep you posted on the whens and wheres of staging.

Pre-Service Training: Once we get in South Africa, we'll complete in-country training, which includes: language courses [and language competency exams], more rules and regulations, cultural training, home stay, safety training, etc. At this point, I'd be a Peace Corps Trainee [PCT]. If I "pass" this portion of the process, I would swear in as an official Peace Corps Volunteer [PCV] on September 20th. This point moving forward gets us back to the "fuzzy" mode...so my goal is to keep you up-to-date on my Peace Corps journey! Y'all come back now, ya here!