Saturday, October 07, 2006

A lot has happened since last time I wrote. First and foremost, I saw Jay-Z in concert last night. Me and three other volunteers coughed up the money to go and it was worth it. It was so much fun. It cost us over 1/3 of our monthly allowance, but I scrimped the first few months so I has some money saved. Like I said-worth it.

My birthday was fine. Nothing too big happening. The day before my birthday the Peace Corps had a celebration at the US Ambassador's residence to commemorate the 45th year of Peace Corps Ghana. President Kufour did come and give a brief speech. All of the PCV's dressed up and we had a wonderful time. It always feels weird to be in Accra, but to be in a beautiful house like that, with such security, felt very strange compared to my normal life. You just see things differently once you actually live in a rural area.

My project has also been going well. I am not sure if it's hitting the 1 year mark or not, but I just feel like things have sort of come together. One, I am more adjusted culturally so that makes life easier. I think you slowly become adjusted and when something bothers you or offends you, you learn with time how to handle the situation, most comfortably for you. A great example is when a stranger will propose. I was so uncomfortable at first. Now, I just laugh and make a big joke out of it. People seem to laugh also, and we move on. This is comfortable for me and gets me out of the situation. So-I'm more adjusted. Also, people are more adjusted to me. They're used to me being around. I am still there but my time is slowly running out, so people want to get busy. Our tourism committee is moving along, and I am so happy that our women's group is now going on their third meeting (tomorrow). It's not a lot of women but if it was one I'd still be happy. We're going to try to do a susu, which is where they all compile equal money and give small loans to eachother. It's very popular in rural, developing areas. I'm hoping it works out.

My time is running short today. Next week I'm headed to Techiman to assist with training the new PCT's on an HIV/AIDS presentation option. I'm SO excited to see my homestay family. I haven't seen them since I left Teachiman in December last year. It'll be a nice reunion. Well, take care. I will try to write again soon. I know this is a short post but something is better than nothing!