Ex Pats Live a Sweet life

March 15, 2011

Rest In Peace Sister.

So I feel like I am in a funk. First I am definitely in a food funk. I cannot wait to get to Dar so I can eat something other than Tanzanian food. I am just really sick of having the same thing all the time. I am also having no revelations as to what to try and make here to get out of this funk. I need some ideas for food. I did make vegetarian tacos yesterday which were really good. I made my own taco shells, which I am pretty sure I will not do again. They were ok, but I am bringing some back from the states. I will also be visiting Between the Tracks when I get home for a burrito and chips and salsa. I think I just need to add something new into my diet. BUT WHAT.

Secondly last week I was on cloud nine. I finished my homework and was actually impressed at the amount of things that I had accomplished In the village work wise. But this week I feel like I have done nothing and there is no point to me being here. I know there is, but it is so hard to hear what other people are doing and not compare myself. I know everyone and every situation is different, but I just feel like I need to do more this week. But I am still stuck with the question of what and how. I really want to help with water, but I still am at square one on that. Especially because I am pretty sure whatever I do is going to involve money. It is so hard to try do things, especially because everything cost money.

Thirdly, today we had a big meeting with the district. I was suppose to go but didn’t. I came home and got ready, but then I decided to just wait at my house until it started because they always tell me to go home and they will come and get me when it is starting. Well they didn’t. And by the time I realized, I ended up not going because I guess I kind of got freaked out. I get kind of scared/ intimidated when I have to be in a meeting with the government. So I didn’t go. But Paul went, why he didn’t come and get me I do not know. But he went. He said it was ok. But that really I never need to be at any of them unless I need something from them or am working on something with them. Which I guess he is right. I still probably should have went, but there is nothing I can do now.

I just need to say again how much I love hanging out with Randi and Claire. I had a great time yesterday with them. We just hung out and watched movies as usual but it was fun and is always relaxing. The only thing that sucks is sleeping at Claire’s is horrible. I hardly ever sleep. It has something to do with the environment and the insects. Which is weird because I have my own room and bed, yet every time I so wish I was at home.
I also hear Michigan is doing well in the tournament. That is awesome.

I almost forgot. Claire keeps forgetting that it is Lent so she freaks out every time she offers me candy or cookies. It is really funny. It always cracks me up because people get so mad at themselves for bringing up stuff that people gave up for Lent and trying to offer it. I do not know why. It doesn’t bother me at all, I forget myself sometimes that it is Lent. Also in the spirit of Lent Randi is attempting to give up Carbs. Not sure why or really what she will eat but she is trying it. I think she is trying it because Claire and her both did not know if they could last that long giving something up. I do not understand this either. Maybe since I have always done lent it seems not that big of a deal but it always seems like a huge deal to everyone else. Also I told them about the different dilemma’s if you give up certain things. Like if you give up chocolate does that include chocolate milk. Or sweets does that include the milk too. They had different thoughts too. I tried to explain that it just depends on the person and but I am not sure if they got it.

March 16, 2011

I just cannot understand it. I have the hardest time waking up here. Not sure why, but I cannot get out of bed before 8 am to save my life unless I really need to. I have also felt sluggish the last few days and today I came home and feel asleep, which I never do. I was just telling Randi how I was sad that I couldn’t take naps anymore which stinks because I love to take naps. She thought naps were unhealthy. I just think they are wonderful. So my sleeping is all over the place.

I went to old Jessica’s today and we made maandazi. She made me do everything so that I would know how to make them when I visit. I hope I remember although it was pretty simple. They are so good. They are like little donuts just not as sweet. Tanzanian do not like to eat sweet things, but they love to drink it. The amount of sugar they put in their tea is unbelievable. Tomorrow I am going to farm with Jessica and then we are going to make bread. Hopefully it turns out.

I went running today and did not really listen to the people hollering at me today. Usually I do but today I didn’t. It turns out one of the girls was yelling for me to wait for her. Sorry, so tomorrow I said I would come and get her. My neighbor is going to, so instead of me feeling like crap I get to feel even worse because I just got slaughtered by two Tanzanians. It should be fun though because I love running with people, it reminds me of Sarah McCormick and me running cross country in high school. We were horrible, all we did was run and talk. But we were really, really slow.

Also reading a book called Flowers for Algernon. It is a science fiction book that Claire’s brother gave her for her birthday. It is pretty good so far. Not at all what I expected. I always thought science fiction were about outer space but this one is about a genius. Not sure how it ends yet, but I think I like it.

Again I am going to say this. I really like running here. It gets me out of the house and I feel like I am doing something and interacting with people. Because Tanzanians are always outside. I have lots of people to say hi to. I like it.

Jessica bought a huge cup of bamboo pombe today. So I of course helped her drink it. I think I really like it which I think might turn out to be a problem later on . But anyway in small doses obviously it is ok. I just cannot get into the habit of drinking it a lot because I think this could also lead to me going to the open market to drink which I think will just lead to bad things. So I will drink with Jessica and maybe a select few but that is it. Pombe is homemade alcohol if you did not know.

March 17, 2011

Happy St. Patrick’s Day. I hope everyone is eating lots of corn beef and cabbage today and has at least one Irish Car Bomb. Oh how I miss a good St. Patrick’s Day with Jenna.
So I feel really weird about today. This is how my day went. Again I had really hard time getting up this morning and finally pulled myself out of bed because I was already late. I went to old Jessica’s to help her farm and then I ended up staying and we cooked bread together. It was great, but then she got a call and we spent the next 2 hours on the side of the road waiting for a friend of hers or relative, I still do not understand. Well he came, in his own car. Turns out he is in the military so he had on his army fatigues. Did not see if he had a gun or not. So we got in his car and went to his mother’s house. Where it was just weird. Not like I would act with my mom and dad. We then got back in the car and drove to Jessica’s house, which there was no reason to go because we got there and turned right back around. It was weird and then we went to my house. Which I didn’t really want to but I didn’t know what else to do. SO we rode in the car again to my house. Which I didn’t like because I feel really weird about riding in a car around here. I just get even more stares. So they came in and stayed for like 2 minutes and then they left. It was really weird. I am not sure if this is just a Tanzanian thing or if this is normal. I felt like he was just showing off his car. (which I did not like) But the day is done and there is nothing I can do about it, I just feel weird about it.

I think I am going insane, I keep losing things and cannot figure out where they went. Today I lost my pajama bottoms and have torn the place a part looking for them. I know I am going to wake up tomorrow and they are going to be staring me in the face.

Also I think I have decided I am having trouble sleeping because a mixture of my malaria medication, the fact that I live on top of people, and the fact that things keep happening in my village and I am reading murder mysteries (which are really addicting). But I find myself up at all hours of the night, dead set that I heard something and someone is trying to get into the house. One morning it was the sound of someone sharpening a knife. I was dead set that they were sawing off my locks. I really need to stop this imagination, this might also explain why I have been tired so much lately. Paul told me it was because I needed to exercise but I said that I actually do that.

Also Jessica asked me about Paul and Randi’s projects. It is funny after talking to her I did not feel so bad about what I was doing. I really wish I could stay on one emotional level with everything instead of all over the place.

March 18, 2011

Again I had trouble sleeping again. But I think I have become somewhat used to it at least. Today I cleaned my house, did all my laundry, and packed for my trip to Dar and Iringa. I am so excited. Especially because also Tanya and Randi are coming into Mpwapwa tomorrow. It should be a good day, but first I am going with old Jessica to see her daughter in town. This should be interesting considering my Swahili. But it will be fun I think.

I had a chicken meeting today and it went wonderful as usual. I think I found a really good group of women to work with, which makes me very happy. This is our 6 meeting so far. Today we talked about building bandas. I am really excited. I just need to submit my grant and hopefully you are looking at the buyer of 60 chickens. We shall see. Cross your fingers.
I also used my charcoal stove today. Which I hate to light, but I did. I made 2 loaves of bread and chickpeas. The chickpeas take like 3 hours, it is insane. I also grilled some corn that my neighbor gave me, it was awesome. It still doesn’t compare to sweet corn, but it will do. I also ate guava fruit today. They are really good, I am not sure how to describe them though. You eat the entire thing, seeds and skin.

I have not been running in 2 days and I feel really bad about it. Hopefully I can tomorrow, but if not Tanya and my friend Natalie said that they would run with me in Dar. Although it is going to be so hot, we shall see. I also might be preoccupied with all the food options. I am dreaming of a BLT and seafood pizza with a glass of wine at the moment. Two more days and I can have American food.

March 19, 2011

So there was a miscommunication with Jessica so I ended up having to ride my bike into town, which I planned on doing at one point during our conversation, but then I thought I did not have to. Well it turns out I did, and ended up riding in a skirt, which is really hard. I had one hand on the handle bars and one hand on my skirt the entire time. Scared to death that I was going to fall to my death, luckily this did not happen. In the end I made it fine and me and Randi went with Jessica to visit her daughter. I have also decided that I hate visiting Tanzanians’. It is always just weird and awkward. I figure I have enough of this already, so I will keep this visits to a minimum.

Very excited because tomorrow I am going to Dar and get real food. I cannot wait.

March 20, 2011

So yesterday I forgot to tell you that my friend Jessica asked Randi in Swahili why her Swahili was so much better than mine in front of me. I then told her in Swahili that I could understand her. I think this caught her by surprise. I wonder if she would understand that I actually do understand a lot I just cannot talk to save my life. Either way she totally thought I didn’t understand. Then we went and met another friend of hers where she told me that I was fat. (I know they mean fat as healthy, but even still I cannot help but take it literally) But luckily Claire’s friend came over that night and he told me I was beautiful, so that kind of made up for the day.

I have arrived in Dar with Tanya after a horrible bus ride. I really thought that I was going puke, the only question was where. Luckily I didn’t, I just told Tanya I couldn’t talk, move, or open my eyes until we got there. So we arrived and then we went and had BURGERS, they were awesome. And now I am watching skiing on ESPN in air conditioning at an Ex Pats house. They are a really nice family that work at the Embassy. I think I could live like this for a while.

March 22, 2011

I have spent the last few days in Dar and it has been amazing. I have had both a burger and pizza. What more could you ask for. I spent the last few days at warden training which means that if shit hits the fan here I am in charge of 8 individuals and their safety. Kind of scary, luckily I think everything will be find but incase not I will be prepared. Also I am do not no really where to go with this I am just so overwhelmed with everything here and so much has happened. I think I am going to need a few days to processes this first.
Tomorrow I head to Iringa to see my friend Kenzi’s village. I am excited because I love visiting people and seeing their site. I am also hoping she can help me figure out a research project. We shall see.

March 24, 2011

After a very eventful morning of us trying to get to the bus, we finally made it to the bus. I then sat on a bus for the next 12 hours to make my way to Kenzi’s village. The bus ride was not that bad except that my chair didn’t recline, so my back is in horrible condition. But I made it to Kenzi’s village. After getting off the bus, we walked an hour on the dirt road into her village. I feel like I have entered another planet. The environment is so different. It is similar to the Midwest, Kenzi says southern Wisconsin. There are pine trees and trees in general as well as lots and lots of water. It is amazing, just think the complete opposite of where I live. And things actually grow here. The corn is huge, I took a picture of it. I cannot believe we actually live in the same place. It is so interesting to go to other people’s villages and see what it is like because everyone’s is so, so different. I think hers is closer to what I expected. She does live a little ways off from people which I am not sure if I would but I also do not particularly like living on top of people either.
We are going to walk around her village and hang out with our friend dan. It should be fun. I am also really excited because she is an amazing cook, so we are going to make cinnamon rolls. I am cannot wait.

March 25, 2011

It has been a full day of cooking. We woke up and had oatmeal and then walked 1 ½ hour one way to get flour because they were out in the village. It was really nice, but I cannot image having to do that, especially because flour and the basics exist literally 100 feet in front of my house. It is definitely a different world here. On top of that Kenzi was freaking out at how hot it was today. The sad thing is that her hot might, and let me stress might be my cold. Oh how jealous I am. So after returning we started to cook and make lunch. We made a rice dish that was very good. Kenzi might be the best cook in out group so I definitely lucked out. We then made ginger bars with lemon frosting. Although I am not sure what my thoughts are on this yet, but I still defiantly ate it so. It was good. We then made homemade bagels and cooked up some goat meat that we bought today. It was really good.

March 26, 2011

Today was another eventful day within Kemzi’s village. We went with her counterpart to her garden and picked corn. We then came back and had lunch before heading out to take a nice long walk to the Ruaha river. Yes, they actually have running rivers here. Not a drop of rain in Dodoma and Iringa has a river. I think I might have one of the worst spots in the country, environment wise. I do hear that Singida is worse but I am skeptical. But at least now I am used to it and except it. Although this just reinforces more that I will be living somewhere with a cold, cold winter. And of course lots and lots of snow. Anyways after that we returned and hung out and talked. We had crepes with bananas and chocolate sauce for dinner and made cinnamon rolls that I am going to eat tomorrow before I make the long trek home. I am really hoping to make it home in one day. Not sure if this is possible yet, but hoping it is. Especially because I hate traveling alone.

I am having a great time with Kenzi. It is so much fun to just walk around, talk, and cook. It was also nice too because I talked to Kenzi about my research and think as before I might have come up with a better research project. But as usual I have no idea and am hoping for the best, but I think this next idea might be actually be plausible. We shall see what my professors think of it.

Also funny thing, Kenzi has a dog and Tanzanian’s are scared to death of dogs. I think I need one so that the kids will stay away. This might actually be a good investment.
Disclaimer: Not sure if you noticed but I have eaten sweets. But I have decided that I am on vacation. Also really if we cannot cook, what are we going to do way out here in the bush. So I gave myself a few free days.

March 27, 2011

I left Kenzi’s village today and actually traveled by myself a little bit. Kenzi walked with me a little ways and then I walked the rest of the way and took a coasta into Iringa. It was kind of scary for me because I really do not like doing things by myself. I usually con Claire or Randi into do everything with me. I am going to blame it on being a twin. But it was really nice and I was very proud of myself for making it here all by myself. Tomorrow I travel to Dodoma by myself and then finally back to the Village. It stinks how long it takes to get in and out of my village. It is crazy that it is easier to get to Dar than anywhere else.

But I met up with some friends in Iringa and it was really fun. We went to this really nice restauarant that over looks the city. It was beautiful and I had a club sandwich so I was in heaven. I also bought a new purse which I am really excited about.
Before I left Kenzi made cinnamon rolls and they were amazing. OMG. I think I am going to have to start making them in the village. The only problem is they are kind of expensive because they take a lot of butter and sugar which is expensive. But I am really excited to try and make them.

I think the insects are on steroids

March 6, 2011

First I have to say, I think one of my favorite things now is milk with a little bit of sugar. Claire has a milk man that comes every night and delivers milk. This is milk that just came from the cow. It is so good. Secondly I think I ate more bread today than I ever have in my life. I didn’t want to cook, so I are bread for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not the best way to stay healthy.

I got a package from Jenna today which was awesome because it had candy in it. Even better that it came today because I am going to give up candy, sweets, and pop for lent. Claire was concerned how this would affect me making cookies. I told her I would still make plenty because I really like to cook and it gives me something to do in the village.

I am currently writing my quarterly report for school and it is really nice, because it is help putting what I am doing in perspective and helping me realize that I am doing something, even though I still spend a lot of time bored. My research proposal is killing me at the moment. I am trying to find the type of termites that exist here and I have emailed and tried to talk to some people and am having no results. Very discouraging. I am really nervous about this. I just want to make sure I research something that I am really passionate and interested in. I also want to do a really good job on it.

My chicken project is coming along awesome. The women are great. We named ourselves the subira group. And elected a board. It is great. I now am in charge of trying to write a grant which is another headache because again I want it to be really good and I want to actually get the money. I feel like my English and writing have really gone downhill since being here, so this does not help things.

I watched Body of Lies and Traitor this weekend. They were both really good I thought. Weird that both of them were about terrorism. Also talked to Han and Stephi before there big road trip. I am really jealous, they are going to have so much fun.

On a last note. I had some of the wine this weekend and thought it was pretty good this time. Now is this because my expectations are lower, or I am just getting drunk that quickly. I feel it could be a mixture if both.

I was cooking today and talking to my parents on the phone. Well I went to blow out the kerosene stove and instead of going of it roared into a huge fire with really high flames. And then I tried to blow it out again and this newspaper that I use for a handle started of fire. I almost burned the house down. Not sure how I would of explained this.

March 7, 2011

I ate my first insect today. It was a flying termite that was deep fried and salted. Jessica’s son found a bunch and she cooked them. She said a lot of people in Ethiopia and Sudan eat them. It took me a long time to actually put the insect into my mouth but it was actually really good, once you get past what it looks like.

I also realized today why my pancakes and certain breads have not worked. I have been using baking soda instead of baking powder. I finally looked at the box today and realized I had the wrong stuff. I feel this is not a mistake I should be making seeing as I have a chemistry degree. Glad to have an explanation thought because I couldn’t figure out what was wrong with my pancakes. I thought maybe I just remembered them tasting differently.

I realized also today how much I love the Jessicas. I went over to the younger Jessica’s and just sat there and talked forever. It was really nice and then her mom came and we talked. It is great, I feel really comfortable and happy when I am with them. Also I am not sure yet but I think Jessica might be pregnant. Today she definitely looked it, but I do not know yet. And to be honest not sure if I will know until either she has a baby or it has been longer than 9 months. I will have to start monitoring her weight. Today she totally looked it and then I started wondering maybe she has always been fat. Not sure, going to ask Claire to help me with this.

March 8, 2011

I really think the children are trying to drive me crazy and I have to say they are doing a fine job of it. I woke up to them banging on my door. Then they continued to harass me the entire day. They are unrelenting, it is to the point that in the middle of the day I am on high alert to listen to see if they are in my courtyard. I know I should just shut the door but then I feel really cut off and people from the road will think I am gone. I want people to be able and come to me and talk. Jessica says to put a kanga over the door. I really think the kids would find away to get it and take it down.

I made my last batch of cookies at least for myself today. Tomorrow starts the beginning on no sweets, candy, or pop. Which is going to be really hard, especially because I am going to Dar and down to Iringa for about a week. Luckily lent is over before I get home.

I just finished The cider house rules. I saw the movie awhile back and really liked it. The book and the movie are nothing alike. Why do they do that, name a book and a movie after each other when there is hardly anything the same. Why do the change everything. The book drove me crazy because I couldn’t figure out what was going to happen and then this just got me to thinking why they would change so much stuff in the movie. Obviously the writers already had an idea why do they have to butch the book. I just don’t get it.

I have also decided that I am somewhat scared of the rain. To the point where it dictates what I do. Today it thundered all day and was cloudy, but never rained. This caused me to stay home most of the day because I was afraid I would have to get wet, I think I am also afraid of getting stuck at someone’s house and not being able to leave because it is raining so hard. For some reason I always need the option of leaving when I want to.

I gave cucumber seeds to my neighbor and Jessica today. I told them to plant them in their gardens and then they can just give me one every now and again. This way I will at least get to eat some and not have to be suspicious of the kids.

I made pilau and kachimbaree today it was great. Pilau is a rice, potato, and onion mixed with a type of cinnamon spice and kachimbaree is tomatoes, onions, hot peppers, and lemon juice mixed together. It is awesome.

Jenna and Hannah I just got bit by my first mosquito in my house. I am not happy.

March 9, 2011

As I was walking home from Jessica’s today, I realized that I hardly ever walk on the main road and how bad it was. It is crazy it has only rained about a dozen times, but it has completely killed the road. Soil erosion at its finest. Also they have these birds called kanga’s here. Look them up, they have the weirdest faces. They remind me of the Joker. A little scary.

I spent the day today writing a grant for chickens. It is almost done and I am actually really proud of it so far. I want Claire and Randi to read it before I submit it, so they can tell me what needs to be fixed, but I feel pretty good about it so far. Now I just have to talk the group and come up with a budget, which I think is going to be difficult. I want them to build the bandas and then I will provide 3 chickens to each. Hopefully this goes as planned, but we shall see.

I also find it weird how some days I can be so so bored and then other days so busy. I wish I had more busy days, but at the moment, life is moving on at a pretty good pace. I am finally starting to feel like I am getting somewhere in the village, I feel comfortable in the village (although I still have a problem saying hi to people because it is this long conversation and I also hate interrupting people and talking over people, but that is how they do it here), I get to go to Dar in a week and then to Iringa, and then just a little more time and I get to visit home. Pretty happy at the moment, although I wish my Swahili was a lot better.
Here is a morning conversation with a villager in Kigogo:

Person 1: Mbukweni
Person 2: Mbukwa
Person 1: Msinzila
Person 2: wayla
Person 1: Neye
Person 2: wayla
Person 1: Heya
Person 2: Heya

This is just part of the morning greetings and you are expected to say this to every single person that you see, even when they are in a group. Do you know how much time that takes up and how confusing it is because everyone is expected to say it to everyone. Insane. This is their tribal language of Kigogo and I pretty sure I just butchered the shit out of the spelling, but you get the general idea.

I know that today is Ash Wednesday, but I did not go to church. The ladies asked me why and I finally realized why I don’t really go any more. I do not understand a word of it and the preacher always appears as if he is yelling. Not really my cup of tea. They all thought that was hilarious, especially after I told them too that I just follow what everyone else is doing and day dream. My bebe says that she is going to teach me a hymn in Kigogo which I am kind of excited about because I really enjoy the music. I think I will go to church on Easter though, because I think it will be really cool and everyone is already asking me about it.

March 10, 2011

Today I woke up to the sound of a jembe (hand hoe) and yes it was right outside my door and then I heard “dada, dada” which could only mean that Jesca had got to my house already and was starting to clean the yard. Which compared to everyone else’s, looked in shambles. But it is amazing what 3 hours of work can do for a house. All those overgrown weeds/ grass were cut with a jembe or a knife. I can now say that I have cut grass to the appropriate length with a knife. Why this is every done I have no idea, but it did give me visions of people doing this with scissors but as usual it begs the question why even do that. Just kill it all. I also have new admiration for the lawnmower. So happy you were invented. I got to have an even better look at the garden and it is not pretty, it probably also doesn’t help that I got peanut and weed leaves mixed up. Still not sure if I killed the right one half the time, but you can only ask so many times. I did eat some spinach today which was awesome but I see little coming from my garden except maybe some cowpeas and possibly some peanuts if I did not kill them off.

I then went to old Jessica’s and took a 2 hour detour at anther friends. She kept asking me to stay for lunch and I say no a lot, but she said that she was cooking right then so it was ready. Then we ate 1 ½ later, but it was really good. Although she reminded me of the aunt on My big fat greek wedding because she kept telling me that I must not like her food because I wasn’t eating a lot. But then I got to Jessica’s and she made me eat again. I am still stuffed.

Yesterday as I was walking around I noticed people that I have never seen before and I thought that was weird. I know I am not here all the time but these people were near my house. I thought I was going crazy, then it dawned on me today that they are the student teachers that are here for a month. This made me feel a lot better. But there are another group of people that come to sell food and other things in town and always yell for me. It is really annoying because why would I ever want to talk to a person that can only yell white person white person, even the kids do not do that.

Tomorrow my neighbor is going to run with me. This should be very interesting. Hopefully I do not embarrass myself to much.

March 11, 2011

Sometimes I feel like I might be living an episode of Seinfeld. Today we were suppose to have a meeting at 1 pm and of course this didn’t happen, so at 4 pm we had a separate meeting to talk about the meeting that we were going to have with about 20 people voicing their input. I am pretty sure almost everyone was there too. Again a meeting to discuss the meeting. It is crazy. This also made me miss my chicken meeting which sucked. But luckily we are going to have it tomorrow. I really do not like dealing with the government or people I guess when it comes to meetings. I think on average there are 3 meetings before the meeting actually happens. Maybe God is trying to be funny with the symbolic 3. I don’t know, but it drives me crazy and always messes up my plans.

I always try to not leave anything outside because I know the kids will get it. Today they went after my bottle of bleach. I am still not sure who the culprit is, but I think I will be able to find out after the bleach attacks his clothes. This is also nerve racking though because what if I leave something out that could be really bad for them. Hopefully they learned from this and I remember to take things in, when I am done with them.

Yesterday at Jessica’s we were walking and noticed that some of the corn was missing corn ears were missing but the husks were still there. Apparently the kids were taking from her to. This made me feel better about my garden. Which I have to say, looking at it today, it looked really nice. I swear the sunflowers doubled in size overnight and I have 2 watermelons growing. I hide them in some leaves so hopefully I will get to enjoy at least one of them. I was thinking about making watermelon vodka in memory of St. Pat’s day. We shall see if Claire and Randi are up for it.

Also finished The Zookeepers’s Wife which is a story about the Warsaw Uprising and the Underground. It is about how this zookeepers family lives in Warsaw during WWII and how they helped save people. It is really good.

March 12, 2011

So those frogs in Hawaii are nothing compared to the insect that I killed today. It looked like maybe a giant centipede. It was bigger than one of Joshi’s toy insects. And of course this is the day that no kids were over to help me. OMG. I was scared to death, I could hear it moving in the paper next to my bed. I got a stick and killed it and then of course took a picture of it. I showed my neighbor and she said that it was poisonous and likes moist places. I am not sure I am going to sleep tonight. I have my mosquito net all tucked in and am now wearing sandals around the house. I have already got freak out by my hair tye. I think this is going to be a long night.

I walked out of my house and one of the kids had fallen asleep on my front path. He looked really cute. Although when he is awake, he is usually crying or asking for donuts. Why he thinks I eat donuts everyday is beyond me, especially because I do not think I have ever here.
So I cannot find my wire to charge my phone or any of the adapters to my phone. It is really weird. I always put it in the same spot. I searched the entire house today and found nothing. I do not know if I just misplaced it or the kids snuck in and were able to take that stuff. It seems highly unlikely because really why would they choose that stuff, but I have no idea where it could be. If the kids took it, that is fine what am I going to do. But I would really like to know because I am going crazy trying to think of where I put it.
Talita and me went running together today. I was of course the slow one which should not have been the case because I spent all day at home and she had been at the shamba all day. I do not think I will ever be like a Tanzanian, Tanzanians are machines.

Snickerdoodles

February 17, 2011

I received an email today that there was ammunition fired in Dar today, well it turns out that the military forgot that bombs expire and will apparently detonate. As a result, 12 people are dead and all flights in today were canceled for a bit. Which of course would happen today because Claire’s mom flew in today for her birthday. Claire also said that this has happened 3 times while she has been in country. Isn’t that crazy.

I spent today, trying to make banana bread on the stove which would have worked if the stove would have been light. Minor detail. I also spent most of the day reading about termites and trying to formulate some sort of thoughts for research. Now my head just really, really hurts.
Also I have eaten more passion fruits today than anyone ever should. And stirred the wine. All the important stuff has been taken care of.

Attempted to start translating a children’s story today. I think it is going to take awhile and Claire said it was easy. Very, very jealous of her Swahili.

February 18, 2011

Apparently since I have started running, the villagers think that now I am able to walk to their farms that are really far. This makes me wonder what they think I am capable of and how fat they really think I am. But as of now, Jessica says that I can come to her farm. (this is after weeks of asking and her saying no, it is too far, not sure what changed).

I had my second chicken meeting today, we only started 2 ½ hours later. This is goof by African standards. I started the meeting and Jessica taught about the benefits of keeping chickens. About 9 people showed up, I think this was a really good turnout. Actually more people than I expected, seeing as it rained the day before and most were at their farms.
Claire gave me a kids book in Swahili, so today me and Talita read it together. I might be the worst speaker in the world. Languages are not my strong suit. I told the little girls that I needed to come to school with them, while they learned to read. I think I might be serious too.

February 19, 2011

I do not know what it is about Saturdays, but this is the day that everyone invites me to eat with them. And as hard as I try, I always have to eat. Now as a result I am stuffed more than I ever thought possible. Worse than Aunt Joyce at thanksgiving. So I made some tea to calm my stomach, and realized I do not make very good tea. I really want to learn how to make it with cinnamon, cardamom, etc. Randi makes really good tea so I think I am going to have her teacher me.

I went to old Jessica’s today and learned how to make MaKande. It is a corn and beans dish. It is really easy although I think a lot of work for just one person, so I do not see me making this in the future. We are going to make maandazi (donuts)Tuesday after the shamba which I am really excited about. I also tried to farm with a plough today. OMG it was really hard, my lines were not straight at all. I think I will stick with the tractor.

February 20, 2011

Apparently, getting engaged is the thing to do when I leave the country. I am already up to 4 different people getting engaged and I have not even been away a year yet. Think makes me think that there are a lot more ahead. Han sent me a text this morning telling me that Ashleigh just got engages. Congrats Ashleigh. This also puts my life in perspective more and looking at, at what age I might get married, which seems is a VERY long ways away.
I was a very busy Tanzanian today. I woke up and washed clothes for 4 hours, washed all my dishes, and managed to make both cookies and bagels. I finally broke into the chocolate chips that Han brought here, which I think is both a good and bad thing. I am hoping I can make them last longer than the M and Ms. Not so sure. The cookies turned out really good, although I guess technically I made bars because I think actual cookies would take too long and I don’t own a spatula to scoop them out with. Either way though, they were amazing. But not good because now I am just craving sugar.

I also had another love/hate relationship with all the kids. At the moment we are on the outs. They managed to kill a tomato plant ( the tallest one I have ever seen) today ( I tried to perform emergency surgery on it, but it was a no go) and pull out all my basil leaves. I just don’t understand. They then were trying to get into my house and take my games and magazines while I was in my room. I am not happy at the moment. Again I am taking the magazines off the table, the only problem is they really have no idea that I am made at them .
Tomorrow I start my tour of the Jessica’s shambas. Old Jessica is taking me tomorrow to her farm and then she is going to show me how to make maandazi again, so hopefully I will be able to make them for everyone when I come home. I have tried a few times already, but I think I need a teacher again. Luckily Jessica loves showing me how to cook or at least I think so.

February 21, 2011

I forgot to also tell you that I thought the children stole my rope fence. I was certain of it until today when I looked and there it was stuck in the ground. I feel bad that I thought this, it reminds me of the time that me and Lindsey convinced ourselves Al and Stephi had moved the car at the drive in. This also was not the case. We just don’t have any sense of direction.

I went and helped Jessica plant beans today. For 2 hours I planted. I was so tired when I was done. I could hardly move and then I went to her house and helped her cook breakfast. It was an early morning. And tomorrow is another early morning because I am going with young Jessica to her shamba that is really far. How far you ask, I am not sure yet but I will find out tomorrow.

February 22, 2011

So Jessica finally let me go to the farm with her after months literally of asking. She said it is because I have been running that she thinks I can do it. And she was right. Although it was only an hour walk there carrying the hand hoe. Me one and Jessica one plus a kid on her back and a bucket on her head. We then farmed for 1 hour and returned home. Which was an 1 ½ hour because we had to walk up hill. I was literally dead when we returned home. I slept for like 2 hours. Do not know if I will ever become a machine like these Tanzanian women. While I slept Jessica ground some corn, washed some clothes, made lunch, weeded the garden, and picked leaves to eat for dinner. How can I compete with this.

February 23, 2011

Today I went into town to meet Claire, Randi, and Judith (Claire’s friend from Germany). We were going to celebrate Claire’s birthday, but she got really sick, so me, Randi, and Judith walked around town and did some errands. We went to the district office to get some paper work done and probably had one of the worst office visits in the history of office visits. The man we went to see, made us wait for like 2 hours outside his office and then when he finally said he had time to see us. Spent the next ½ hour on the phone and would only sign the paper but not answer the questions that he needed to because how was he suppose to know what is going on in his office. It was horrible and made me never want to work with him again. I really hope to avoid him in the future. We will see how well this goes. He was so not business like or Tanzanian for that matter. But finally we got that done and made snickerdoodle cookies (why are they called snickerdoodles anyway there is no snickers in them) and climbed the hill behind Claire’s house. It was a really nice day. Tomorrow Randi leaves to run the Mt. Kili marathon. I cannot believe she is going to do this, I wish I could run a marathon but as you know I am worried about a little 5k thus I do not think a marathon is in the near future.

I also talked to Han, stephi, and my mom today. It was really nice to talk to them and got me even more excited to come home. And to see what the cottage looks like. My dad keeps sending me pictures and everytime it is looking more and more different. I cannot wait to see it.

February 25, 2011

Me and Claire went over to her friend Herbert’s and watched a comedy show. I don’t know If I will ever get Tanzanian comedy. I think it is just really different which is weird because I thought I had a really good sense of humor but maybe I am mistaken because so far I do not find the show funny, of course this is after Claire has translated it back into English for me. Also not sure if I am ever going to be able to speak Swahili.

A few stories for you. First my friend was telling me about a witch doctor that used to live in the village when the last volunteer was here, who was going around cutting off the tongues of children, so they killed him and burned his house down. I am then retelling this story to Claire and Randi who then ask if there are any kids with no tongues in the village, and I have no idea. I never even thought about that. Secondly when the kids broke my tomato plant I went into surgery mode and tried to save it, which means that I found a long stick and started to break it, at this point the kids are screaming and running. I couldn’t figure out what was going on and then it hit me, they thought I was breaking the stick so that I could hit them with it. Because they are so used to this at home and even at school. It made me laugh a little and I think I might pretend to do this a little so maybe they will listen better.
I went to a village meeting today which of course started late and lasted forever. What did they want me to do, build them another dam. I was not prepared for this and really had no idea what to say. I just said in my broken Swahili that they needed to write out exactly what they wanted and think about how much they thought it would cost. This way it buys me some time to think if this is even plausible and something that will actual help and benefit the community. I have no idea. It seems like it would increase water, but then I think of all the broke parts of the water system. But then again the water system still does work with all the broken parts. So I guess we shall see where this goes.

3rd chicken meeting and people showed up. It was awesome.

I made a really stupid mistake today that I didn’t realize until it was too late. My neighbor came over to get her plate back and I gave her some of the homemade wine that I made. Afterwords I was thinking about it and I couldn’t remember but I was thinking that I just gave wine to a drunk. Needless to say this was true, she came by later 2 times and asked the same questions and was slurring her words really bad. I totally forgot or didn’t realize until today. I feel really stupid about this. For some reason this also reminds me of Grandpa Preston thinking that people are just happy all the time and not thinking they are drunk. I
guess I just think like Grandpa Preston.

My friend Mary, who is in the same program as me called me today from Cameroon. It was a really nice surprise.

February 26, 2011

So what is worse than seeing a cockroach in the choo??? A 10 inch long millipede. OMG. They gross me out so much. Luckily it ran for it when I put the light on him, but still is it too much to ask that I be left in peace while I go to the bathroom.

I made peanut butter cookies today and they turned out AMAZING. This is like the 4th time that I have made cookies in the last week. This is not going to help me get into shape at all. I kind of feel like Mrs. Deyoung, exercising every morning and then making cookies.
The kids came to the door today to show me a baby bird. At first I freak out because I thought they were caring a around a dead baby bird. It turns out it was still alive at least at this point. It was kind of cool until I thought how it was probably going to die today because it was only a baby. But maybe not.

I made salted sardines today for dinner with ugali. It actually was good. It might become a staple for me because it is really, really cheap to make and has at least a little nutritional value.

FYI: The termites are taking over everything. Every time I kill them and their colony they return. It is exhausting to continually be cleaning the same things over and over. Although I know I should just buy some spray but I am too lazy.

February 27, 2011

Not sure where to start with today. First I would like to say that I have to say hi to everyone in the village so much that apparently I am getting anxiety over it because I am not dreaming of it and waking up to me talking. Do not like where this is headed although this is slightly better than me in Colorado jumping out of bed and thinking I am running after a crying kid. (Jenna do you remember the night of I am Legend)

Anyways Claire came to visit today with Herbert (works with Claire, from Mt Kili area) and Herbert’s sister and brother. They walked all the way here and back. I was amazed that is like 5 hours total. It was great, we just sat around and talked and read old gossip magazines. After they left I went and talked to Jessica and we went to the open market to see what the tomatoes looked like. Well of course there were tons of people and everyone was drinking, I actually tried the pombe this time. It was bamboo pombe. It was alright, not something I am going to start drinking but it was alright. Also as I was walking Claire and everyone out of town I realized how much drinking goes on in my village and it is a LOT.
Not sure how true this is but Claire tells me it is true and she can actually speak Kiswahili so I might kind of believe her. But anyways, she says that a volunteer said that a kid in her village got eaten by a pig. I feel like this story might have some flaws but then I think of the movie I think it is snatch and how if you don’t feed a pig for a while it will eat a human body, so I am not sure what to think.

And actually the most important news I almost forgot. Randi finished the marathon today. She ran the entire time and was still standing when I talked to her. Congrats again. She is amazing, I do not know how she does it, especially because it is really, really, hot.
Oh and someone stole the one thing that was growing in my garden, a watermelon. I am heartbroken, I now have nothing to show for me being a good environment volunteer. I still cannot believe someone took it. It is heart breaking because this also means that anything else that grows is probably going to get taken. Not sure if this is just me or how it works in general yet. But I think I am going to plant things at Jessica’s from now on. Also my bebe told me that someone stole one of her chickens, the village chairman’s chickens, and another person’s chicken this week. It has not been a good week for the village.
But I did make amazing peanut sauce today. I cannot believe how much ginger makes a difference in things. I think I am going to start using it more. It is amazing.

February 28, 2011

So I thought the watermelon was a big deal, today they took my tomatoes that were just babies. I now know that God does not want me to have a garden. I have one more attempt with sweet potatoes so we shall see, if not I am throwing in the towel.

I have a huge love hate relationship with the children in the village, because on one hand they are really fun and are a good source of both entertainment but on the other hand. They are constantly around. I know most of them by now and I am pretty sure I know who is taking my produce, but I don’t think I will ever be able to prove it. I think it is one of the little girls. She is very sneaky, or at least she thinks she is. Also is it bad that I let the kids do my dishes today and sweep my yard. I went to do it and Zali who always helps me told me that she was going to do them all. She is really sweet, she also told me that I could tell the kids “stop and that was enough.” I am such a push over, it took a 10 year to do something that I should be more than capable of. I am really working on this mean/ strict thing and it is really hard.

I also went running in the evening today and now can tell you that I can run faster than a herd of cattle and sheep and that they very kindly move out of the way for you. I also ran past one of the bridges and saw like 40 kids playing in the sand, it was really cool. I think I am going to have to go down there, they were doing some really cool flips and jumps.
As usual I also cooked today and made the most perfect bread yet. I also have been using ginger and it just keeps making everything better.

March 1, 2011

I went running today in the mountains and ran into a pricker bush. My leg now looks like I got in a knife fight. I have no idea how I did this, it is like it came out of nowhere except that it was the only thing in the area. I think I have a depth perception problem. So then I tried to wear pants that would cover it but when I sit down you can see, so all the women have been asking what happened and then they see my arm that I burned on the stove. I think I am falling apart. Jessica also reminded me to use the road.

I went to school today and talked to the teachers. They want me to teach but I don’t want to right now because I know that I could not make every class and I do not think that is good. They also tell me that I need to come around more. I don’t understand it though, they are never in classes. Shouldn’t they be teaching all day and not have time to talk to me. This is just my view, but they should be working.

Me and my neighbor built my first fuel efficient stove today. I am really nervous to see how well it works. It looks good enough but ya never know. I really hope it works out well, so that I can continue to make them in the village. They would really help all the women out and cut down on the trips into the mountain to cut firewood. Thus I hope possibly freeing up some time and energy for other things.

I have to add Lawry’s salt to the list of best spices to use. That on some popcorn might be one of the best things ever.

March 3, 2011

Today started off bad. First I was woken up by a group of girls that wanted to sell me eggs. Which was nice but please can we do after I actually wake up and get out of bed. Then the kids came to play and when I told them it was time to leave, they would not and I had to practically push them out and lock the door. Why are they so hard to deal with some times and then at others are amazing.

I then decided to come into town tonight instead of tomorrow morning. And as soon as I left my house I got a flat. The flat happened in front of a bar full of people that were drinking pombe and I am pretty sure were not feeling anything. Well one of them said he was a Fundi and was going to fix my bike. Which he actually did, but I was skeptical the whole time and am actually still very skeptical about the whole thing. But I did make it into town in one piece, so I cannot complain. Although the entire way here I was thinking omg what if something happens and I don’t make it into town before dark, what am I going to do. But everything turned out fine. And now I Know by what time I need to leave so that I make it into town safely.

Claire and me then went to Herbert’s and had dinner. His sister made this amazing banana dish that is from their tribe it was awesome and I don’t really care for the bananas. Walter (Herbert’s Brother) was also there and we talked about aliens and how he thought they existed and our government was hiding them. He told me I needed to ask Alex because he is in the military. This all cracked me up. So then we looked on the internet. It was a great night.
I love coming into town, except for the mosquitoes.