Hello everyone! Sorry it has been so long since I have updated. Things have been pretty hectic lately in the village and the city. Luckily I have been managing to get some things done. The most exciting news is the funding of the Durotank Project that I have been talking about on here for months. The village was able to raise $10K through the donation of 8 individuals and a corporation back home via the Peace Corps Partnership Program. I want to thank those of you who donated, who all but one I have yet to even meet. Uncle Marty and Aunt Rosemary thank you so much for your help on the project! Everyone else who maybe was interested in helping but the project was already funded- the village appreciates your interest and we all know your support is there! I am truly grateful for all the types of support we’ve received from back home, whether it be moral or financial!! We’re hoping to have the project completed by October. There are still some major steps (setting up a bank account- (which is harder than it would seem due to it being a village account. Village meetings, petitions, and other tedious steps are involved), multiple trips to the city to purchase materials, arranging transportations, trainings dealing with water sanitation, among other steps) that need to be done before it will be completed. The hard work is yet to be done, as there will be so much planning and organizing necessary to complete the project. But I am definitely feeling optimistic since we have received the funding. I will be sure to update you on the status!
There has been a lot of commotion in the village lately. The Bishop made his first visit to the river in 4 years. I regularly attend Mass in the village (one hour on most Sundays). Sometimes I am able to pick out the tunes of songs or recognize a bit of the readings (done in Dutch and Saramaccan). There has never been a communion service while I have been there, and I had been a bit curious about when the last time they received communion was. The day the Bishop came, I learned the answer- 4 years ago. There were tons of kids of all ages dressed in white who had their First Communion that day. It was interested to see the way the villages (mine and a neighboring village took part) and the Bishop greeted each other- villagers sang and the few (maybe 3) who have cameras took pictures, while the Bishop listened and took their picture in return. The service was about 3 hours long and was filled with villagers ‘taking the stage’ and performing for the visitor. I’ve found that it’s interesting when the village will and will not hold service. For instance, Pentecost is a big enough holiday in the villages to warrant school being cancelled for a long weekend, but no one aside from me seemed concerned that we weren’t having services that day. I was surprised when I had walked the 10 minutes to church, carrying my plastic chair (you’ve got to provide your own seating!) and the church (picture a covered picnic shelter) was empty.
There has been a new addition to the village- a little boy named Teddy. My neighbor finally had her baby! I noticed she seemed a bit worn down one Wednesday and asked her when she thought she was going to finally have the baby. She wearily said she didn’t know. The next day, little Teddy had arrived and the whole village was coming by to see him. His name was chosen from a list I had given them of names of friends and family back home (Scott and Elgin were also at the top of her list. Maybe next time!) Since he now has the name as my Grandpa back home, I gave her a picture of him so he will know someone else who has his same name. It was interesting and surprising to see the way the women of the village treat someone’s newborn. When the baby arrives, a handful of women, whoever happens to be at the house, will wash him in a plastic tub filled with water and leaves. The older respected women of the village bury its umbilical cord and placenta. I walked over to where they were digging a small hole behind the hut and noticed something odd looking sticking out of the hole. Then I realized I was looking at the umbilical cord. Trying not to appear shocked (bc why wouldn’t I have seen this before?), I asked what they were burying, and my neighbor explained it was the ‘tie’ and ‘sac’ the baby had come with. They then blessed it by the traditional method of spitting Palm Rum (the strongest alcohol in the world (or so it tastes!!!)) on the mound. I think that this is the ‘newest’ newborn that I have been around, so I was definitely a bit nervous when my friend kept handing him to me. It’s a bit shocking to see the way villagers handle babies here. They are much rougher and not as concerned with all the protection and coddling you will find in America. But, the babies are fine and seem used to all the jostling. I spend time with Teddy and his big brother Herman (who I think maybe has a small case of sibling rivalry!) and am just amazed how he is growing and changing. His mom has dubbed him my ‘little man’.
The garden I had planted is taking a turn for the worst. Unfortunately, I planted it in a ‘flood plain’, so the plants are not looking very good. I have had a few ‘harvests’ of cospanti (string beans), but everything else is still growing, or at least trying to. I tried to import some dirt to solve the problem, but because the rains have come – and heavily I might add – it just washes the soil away. I do enjoy doing the gardening, as it give me something to do and will hopefully save me from having to transport canned veggies from the city. Also, when people tell me I have to go to their gardens (there’s really no asking here- it’s telling you what to do), I can tell them I have a garden right behind my house so I have my own work to do! Hopefully I can come up with a solution!
I spent a bit of time in the city trying to get my smaller projects going. They are coming along slowly, but I am hoping to have the Welcome Sign Project I put together completed within a few months. We’re also still working on the rice mill, life vests, and we have added soccer equipment for the kids to the project list. During the time I’ve been in I’ve been trying to put together meetings, letters, proposals, anything I can to generate some interest in them with the organizations here. Unfortunately, a lot of the orgs. have already doled out their money for the rest of the year, so the rice mill may have to wait a bit. I was also able to spend a lot of time with the other volunteers, a lot who came in for the 4th of July. The Ambassador has a BBQ (and I sure do miss BBQs!) for all the volunteers and staff. It gives us all a chance to get together and chat, including the new group, my group who’s been here a year, and the group who will be leaving by the 6th of July for home. Unfortunately, not everyone from our group was able to be there, including Joe who had gone fly back to site. I was very sad to see him go!
Anyhow- I think that by now you should all be updated! I hope you are all well and please let me know how everything is going. I will see a lot of you when I am home for a visit in less than 2 months (just a tad excited!). Nic I hope you have a super fun time at your showers and you know I will be there in spirit!! I hope all you girls have a fun time together!!! Happy b-days Grandma, Aunt Rosemary and (late) Aunt Cathy. And Emily!! 26!!! Thanks to everyone for your interest in what I am doing here- and I hope you all enjoyed the article in the News Press. I was a bit nervous about it, but I think it turned out well. Mom- thanks for all the help with it! I’m hoping to be in again around my birthday, so I will let you all know how everything is going then! Oh- to Catherine Cook’s dad- I apologize for not updating sooner!! She told me you were a bit disappointed we were all a bit behind on our blogs! And she’s doing really well here! We all love her!
Monday, July 6, 2009
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
One Year Anniversary!
Hello all! Sorry it’s been awhile since the last update- I have been at my site for the past five weeks. I was definitely ready to come to the city this time around – it’s my group’s one year anniversary! Not only am I excited to see Joe after this long stint (too long!) but almost all the volunteers from my group and those remaining (10 of 25) from the group ahead of me will be in. It’s hard to believe that I’ve been away for a year; it has definitely gone by fast over all but had its slow points. The new group of volunteers is arriving on the 16th of May (Happy Birthday NJB!) and we’ll be waiting to greet them. I know we are all eager to meet the new group, but we are also very excited to celebrate this mile marker! It really does seem like just yesterday that I was saying goodbye to you all and hello to this new place! When I think of everything that has happened in the last year, it is hard to believe that it has only been that long. I’ve heard the second year goes by even faster – which means I’ll be back for good before you know it! I was sitting in my hammock one day and noticed a tarantula right above my head, just sitting. So, I kept on reading and napping. I realized how accustomed I have become to things here in just a year when I can sleep beneath something that before would have sent me screaming the other way. I came into the city a few days earlier than planned due to medical; I’ve been under the weather for 2 weeks due to some other mystery illness that I’m hoping the doctor can diagnose for me. Being sick in this weather is tough – it’s really hard to keep yourself hydrated when you are not only sick but sweating 24/7. I’m having an allergic reaction to something which has left me red, itchy, and swollen. So, I decided to head to the city and get in the air conditioning!
The past 5 weeks at site have been pretty slow. I did receive good news from my boss that the Duro Tank Water Project that I have been hard at work on finally got posted online. If anyone is interested in helping the link to the project is: www.peacecorps.gov/contribute . Search by last name (Smith) and then State (MO). The project is titled ‘Durotank Clean Drinking Water Project’. I also have a PDF and informative letter that I would be happy to send to you. It tells a bit about the village and more about the project. Email me at smith.cristin.e@gmail.com and I will send it to you as soon as I get the chance. I am still working on trying to come up with funds to provide the village with a welcome sign; a neighboring village and other PCV have decided to do the project together since we are right across the river from each other. Another project the village is looking at is possibly building a kindergarten. The village is Traditional and Catholic. Currently the kindergarten is Catholic and we are talking about possibly trying to find a sister parish to work with on the project. I have a lot of research to do when I am in the city this trip!
To keep myself busy (and to provide some nutrients) I started a garden. It’s my first attempt at a green thumb, but I do have some sprouts. Clearing the ground was quite a bit of work due to the fact it’s covered in never-ending vines, roots, and red ants not to mention a swarm of wasps seemed to think I was invading their territory – luckily there were no stings. I’ve got three plots going in which pumpkin, cucumbers, okra and cospanti (similar to string beans) are growing. Weeding them by hand every few days keeps my mornings busy, yet after a good rain it seems like I haven’t weeded at all. They just keep coming! This garden really has been a group effort. One women helped me hoe my yard and clean out vines, another hacked down vines with her machete (while being 8 months pregnant – I’m accustomed to seeing things like this now), another gave me tips on how to make the beds. Two women brought me seeds. An older woman came by to make sure I was making the holes for the seeds correctly and then we proceed to poke all the holes. A few of the kids have helped me pull weeds. One boy brought me wood from the jungle for supports for my copsanti (the vines need something to climb up.) So, as you can see, I can’t take all the credit for these vegetables. There was a training in which one of the volunteers had mentioned putting urine on her plants to help them grow. Evidently I missed the part of the conversation in which it needs to be mixed with water and sit for awhile. I just tossed it on one of the beds and I’m wondering if that’s why my tomatoes aren’t coming up. (I guess I should explain – there’s no toilets here obviously. A few including myself have latrines, but using these for urine is not recommended- it fills up too quickly and the smell is even worse. The villagers go wherever but most of the female volunteers use kalinkis or chamber pots. We’re not very comfortable standing in the middle of the village and having a conversation while we go like the villagers are! I was pretty shocked the first time when I was talking to a neighbor and then realized she was multitasking!)
As I mentioned before, the village is still a Traditional one. I attended a ceremony in which the villagers made an offering of sorts. The majority of the crowd was elders and younger people, as the middle aged were busy working at their grounds. (People are busy getting their gardens ready since the long rainy season is starting. It actually gets a bit cool (T-shirt appropriate) at times which is such a nice change!) Everyone gathered around as one of the heads of the village made the offering of leaves, spices, etc. The kids were dancing and singing while the elders (and I) watched. It was only after about an hour that I looked down and realized I was standing next to a bound chicken. Later on, it was sacrificed. All of this is held in a small coffin like container made of sticks and it is tied to a board. Some of the boys the attempt to carry the coffin past the elder into the jungle, yet he gives it a small push backwards. They then stumble through the crowd moving haphazardly and attempt again. Rejection. This part went on for over an hour until they were finally allowed to pass. The kids enjoy themselves by running away from the coffin as the boys near them. It was interesting and insightful. One of the kids filmed a bit of it for me and I will try and put it up somehow/somewhere if I can – it cuts off right when they pull the chicken out.
My favorite girl that I mentioned before is 8 months pregnant; I finally got her to admit that she wants a little girl. She asked me to come up with a list of names for her so I made a list of friends and family names from back home. We’ll see if she picks any of them. I was asking her about the birth and if she would be going to the clinic (a 10 minute boat ride) to have it. She just laughed and said no, she would be having it at her house which is right across from mine. She said I would hear her when the time came. She already had one little boy who is so fun and always greets me in the mornings. He loves to come and look at the pictures of my dog and he’s finally got here name (Dixie) memorized so when I ask him her name he excitedly shouts it. For his birthday we had a water fight and then I gave him a bunch of bubble gum. Birthdays aren’t really celebrated here which is unfortunate. I am a firm believer in days of celebration – the Birthday Week!
Well this is getting lengthy – so I’ll talk to you all again soon. Nic and Beth thanks so much for the Easter cards! I did go to church that morning in a newly sewn kosu (not quite a new Easter dress) and then made an Easter dinner of Spam and ramen noodles. A kid helped me cook a vegetable, sopropo, which did not make the cut. It is the most bitter vegetable ever – it’s just awful and even the villagers admit they don’t really like it! Not quite ham and green bean casserole. I am coming back this August for my best friend’s wedding and can’t wait! I will be booking my plane ticket this trip in the city – and am so excited to see many of you! It’s been too long! NJB congrats on the graduation – I hope you got your flowers! And happy 25th – I wish I was there to celebrate with you and take you to Kona myself! Grandma Teeny I hope that you are feeling better- you have been on my mind! Grandma Smith – happy belated birthday – I’m so glad that I got to talk to you on the big day! Lindsey congrats on your Pinning and I hope your clinical go well! I’m glad to hear everyone got their Mother’s day cards! Ok Anywho, miss you and love you! Hope all is well!
The past 5 weeks at site have been pretty slow. I did receive good news from my boss that the Duro Tank Water Project that I have been hard at work on finally got posted online. If anyone is interested in helping the link to the project is: www.peacecorps.gov/contribute . Search by last name (Smith) and then State (MO). The project is titled ‘Durotank Clean Drinking Water Project’. I also have a PDF and informative letter that I would be happy to send to you. It tells a bit about the village and more about the project. Email me at smith.cristin.e@gmail.com and I will send it to you as soon as I get the chance. I am still working on trying to come up with funds to provide the village with a welcome sign; a neighboring village and other PCV have decided to do the project together since we are right across the river from each other. Another project the village is looking at is possibly building a kindergarten. The village is Traditional and Catholic. Currently the kindergarten is Catholic and we are talking about possibly trying to find a sister parish to work with on the project. I have a lot of research to do when I am in the city this trip!
To keep myself busy (and to provide some nutrients) I started a garden. It’s my first attempt at a green thumb, but I do have some sprouts. Clearing the ground was quite a bit of work due to the fact it’s covered in never-ending vines, roots, and red ants not to mention a swarm of wasps seemed to think I was invading their territory – luckily there were no stings. I’ve got three plots going in which pumpkin, cucumbers, okra and cospanti (similar to string beans) are growing. Weeding them by hand every few days keeps my mornings busy, yet after a good rain it seems like I haven’t weeded at all. They just keep coming! This garden really has been a group effort. One women helped me hoe my yard and clean out vines, another hacked down vines with her machete (while being 8 months pregnant – I’m accustomed to seeing things like this now), another gave me tips on how to make the beds. Two women brought me seeds. An older woman came by to make sure I was making the holes for the seeds correctly and then we proceed to poke all the holes. A few of the kids have helped me pull weeds. One boy brought me wood from the jungle for supports for my copsanti (the vines need something to climb up.) So, as you can see, I can’t take all the credit for these vegetables. There was a training in which one of the volunteers had mentioned putting urine on her plants to help them grow. Evidently I missed the part of the conversation in which it needs to be mixed with water and sit for awhile. I just tossed it on one of the beds and I’m wondering if that’s why my tomatoes aren’t coming up. (I guess I should explain – there’s no toilets here obviously. A few including myself have latrines, but using these for urine is not recommended- it fills up too quickly and the smell is even worse. The villagers go wherever but most of the female volunteers use kalinkis or chamber pots. We’re not very comfortable standing in the middle of the village and having a conversation while we go like the villagers are! I was pretty shocked the first time when I was talking to a neighbor and then realized she was multitasking!)
As I mentioned before, the village is still a Traditional one. I attended a ceremony in which the villagers made an offering of sorts. The majority of the crowd was elders and younger people, as the middle aged were busy working at their grounds. (People are busy getting their gardens ready since the long rainy season is starting. It actually gets a bit cool (T-shirt appropriate) at times which is such a nice change!) Everyone gathered around as one of the heads of the village made the offering of leaves, spices, etc. The kids were dancing and singing while the elders (and I) watched. It was only after about an hour that I looked down and realized I was standing next to a bound chicken. Later on, it was sacrificed. All of this is held in a small coffin like container made of sticks and it is tied to a board. Some of the boys the attempt to carry the coffin past the elder into the jungle, yet he gives it a small push backwards. They then stumble through the crowd moving haphazardly and attempt again. Rejection. This part went on for over an hour until they were finally allowed to pass. The kids enjoy themselves by running away from the coffin as the boys near them. It was interesting and insightful. One of the kids filmed a bit of it for me and I will try and put it up somehow/somewhere if I can – it cuts off right when they pull the chicken out.
My favorite girl that I mentioned before is 8 months pregnant; I finally got her to admit that she wants a little girl. She asked me to come up with a list of names for her so I made a list of friends and family names from back home. We’ll see if she picks any of them. I was asking her about the birth and if she would be going to the clinic (a 10 minute boat ride) to have it. She just laughed and said no, she would be having it at her house which is right across from mine. She said I would hear her when the time came. She already had one little boy who is so fun and always greets me in the mornings. He loves to come and look at the pictures of my dog and he’s finally got here name (Dixie) memorized so when I ask him her name he excitedly shouts it. For his birthday we had a water fight and then I gave him a bunch of bubble gum. Birthdays aren’t really celebrated here which is unfortunate. I am a firm believer in days of celebration – the Birthday Week!
Well this is getting lengthy – so I’ll talk to you all again soon. Nic and Beth thanks so much for the Easter cards! I did go to church that morning in a newly sewn kosu (not quite a new Easter dress) and then made an Easter dinner of Spam and ramen noodles. A kid helped me cook a vegetable, sopropo, which did not make the cut. It is the most bitter vegetable ever – it’s just awful and even the villagers admit they don’t really like it! Not quite ham and green bean casserole. I am coming back this August for my best friend’s wedding and can’t wait! I will be booking my plane ticket this trip in the city – and am so excited to see many of you! It’s been too long! NJB congrats on the graduation – I hope you got your flowers! And happy 25th – I wish I was there to celebrate with you and take you to Kona myself! Grandma Teeny I hope that you are feeling better- you have been on my mind! Grandma Smith – happy belated birthday – I’m so glad that I got to talk to you on the big day! Lindsey congrats on your Pinning and I hope your clinical go well! I’m glad to hear everyone got their Mother’s day cards! Ok Anywho, miss you and love you! Hope all is well!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Hello all!!
Well, it has been awhile since I’ve been able to update. The past weeks have been pretty busy with trainings and meetings. One of the major themes of PC here is HIV/AIDS education. PC held a training event for the volunteers where we were each supposed to bring two kids who would help us educated the rest of the community about the topic when returning to the village. The day of the training- volunteers and their kids traveled to a nearby village. The event was a two-day training session in which the ‘trainees’ we supposed to partake in skits, songs, etc., to help them get informative messages about AIDS across to others. Unfortunately, while the girls I brought were smart, they were painfully shy in front of the group. When they were performing the skit we wrote, I felt like a nervous stage mom just hoping they got the words right. A month after this event, all the participants met up again. This time we brought 2 additional kids, so there were 4 girls total. Before arriving, we had rewritten the skit to make it more lively and entertaining, and it took many practices but they finally got it right. When the big day came, I was very proud of the girls - the 2 additional ones gave the original trainees more confidence and overall they did really well- I took plenty of pictures!
Another important role of PC here is Water and Sanitation Health. We went to a training involving UNICEF in which we discussed various ways the communities can improve their drinking water, waste systems, and overall understanding of sanitary practices. There was some confusion bc the training was given in a different language than most of the PCVs understood, so a lot of the time was spent on translating. In relation to the training, my counterpart and I began to work more on the water project we are working on for the village in which we are trying to obtain funding for Durotanks or large water catchments that will store rain water. After returning to Gengeston, we had several meetings with the ‘water committee’ (my counterpart, 2 teachers, and a basha (important person in the village)) to finalize all the details and numbers necessary to complete the proposal. Since the project is requesting a large amount ($10K) and is going through the Peace Corps Partnership Program, the proposal was very lengthy and detailed, which will hopefully help to ensure that it receives approval from Washington. I’ve been in the city for 2 weeks going through the final stages here in Suriname. This involved several meetings with PC staff and several revisions and adjustments to the proposal. Monday (4/6) my counterpart and I will have a meeting with PC staff. It’s the final step here, and if all goes well (which it is expected to) the proposal will be sent to Washington D.C. and then posted online so that donors back home can help by contributing (tax deductible) funds. After months of adjusting and integrating, it’s satisfying to be working on such an important project and seeing how the hard work of my community and I is paying off.
Aside from the water project I have been talking about on here for months, we have also been working on a few smaller projects. The first is securing life vests for the children. The village does not have a primary school, and kids who wish to continue on after kindergarten must travel by boat to a neighboring village. Originally, the village wanted to build a school to solve the problem. Aside from it being a lengthy and expensive project, I wanted to be sure we were able to focus on drinking water and a rice mill (still working on that). Instead, I proposed life vests. Each child will pay a small rental fee (SRD 1= about $.33) per month and pay it to the Women’s Organization. This ensures that when one of the vests needs to be replaced, there will be funding to do so. We are negotiating the costs with a local organization here, but the project should be done within a month or so. In addition to this, the village is working on obtaining funding for a welcome sign. Currently, there is nothing designating the village, so when travelers pass by on the river, they have no idea what village they are looking at. We are also talking to an organization about providing the sign, as we have already secured a vendor to donate the cost of actually printing the sign. (It will be a large metal sign saying ‘Welcome to Gengeston’ with a picture of the river in the background.) While these are much smaller projects, they are important to the village. About the rice mill, we were talking with one organization here, but will probably have to begin shopping the project with other groups here.
In addition to the recent training sessions, we also had a few events within the village. The community performs traditional washings periodically. This entails the men of the village gathering and grinding leaves, roots, etc. into a pulp. After this is done, the members gather to be ‘washed’ – or sitting together and have the mixture, along with river water, poured over them by a trusted member of the village. As he pours the mixtures, he says a blessing. Luckily for me, he somewhat speaks English, so I get the translated version. As I had something which smelled oddly familiar and delicious poured over my head, leaving me covered with leaves, etc., he said ‘This is for good wishes for a good year. Good luck Bendefolo (my village name (bende=long and lean folo = flower)). After this, as I kept trying to figure out what I now smelled like, my counterpart comes up to me. They are in favor of asking pretty obvious questions (i.e. ‘are you here?’ “did you wake up today?’ ‘are you going to the river?’ – while I have a huge bucket of dishes on my head) and so he asks “Did you get washed?” (as I am covered in leaves and stems) “Yes.” “Did you get pepper in your eyes?” “What? No!” Then after asking him what was in the mixture, I discovered there were onion roots and parts of peppers mixed with everything else. It seems a bit dangerous to have anything mixed with peppers (the ones here are tiny and HOT) poured over oneself. But, at least I solved the mystery – onions and peppers!
I held English lessons right before I headed into the city. We were writing letters to our pen pals in Missouri and I was excited when the class doubled in size. I took the kids’ pictures last time and put them with the letters so the kids in St. Joe would see who they were writing. Evidently, word had spread, and we had about 23 kids wanting to write letters. I thought 12 kids was a challenge last time, I was mistaken. Two and a half hours and one voice lost later, they letters were done and I was exhausted!! Erica I hope your kids enjoy them!
While putting together the proposal for the Durotank project, I put together a PDF slideshow that tells you more about the village and project. I can’t figure out if it’s possible to somehow post it here (I really am not computer savvy!). If you are interested in seeing it I will gladly email it to you, along with a letter about the project and the process we are going through. Feel free to email me at smith.cristin.e@gmail.com and I will happily get back to you as soon as I can. (You know I’m a bit limited on my emails here!)
I wanted to thank the Hildebrands and Zawodny-WalkUps for the care package!!! I was totally surprised and it was such a nice treat!! I saw the Taco John’s box and knew it had to be from someone in St. Joe! Everything was delicious!! Thanks again!! Also, I hope that everyone has a Happy Easter and everyone is doing well! I miss you all!
p.s. There are new pictures up! The link is at the top left of the page along with the info about how to access it.
Another important role of PC here is Water and Sanitation Health. We went to a training involving UNICEF in which we discussed various ways the communities can improve their drinking water, waste systems, and overall understanding of sanitary practices. There was some confusion bc the training was given in a different language than most of the PCVs understood, so a lot of the time was spent on translating. In relation to the training, my counterpart and I began to work more on the water project we are working on for the village in which we are trying to obtain funding for Durotanks or large water catchments that will store rain water. After returning to Gengeston, we had several meetings with the ‘water committee’ (my counterpart, 2 teachers, and a basha (important person in the village)) to finalize all the details and numbers necessary to complete the proposal. Since the project is requesting a large amount ($10K) and is going through the Peace Corps Partnership Program, the proposal was very lengthy and detailed, which will hopefully help to ensure that it receives approval from Washington. I’ve been in the city for 2 weeks going through the final stages here in Suriname. This involved several meetings with PC staff and several revisions and adjustments to the proposal. Monday (4/6) my counterpart and I will have a meeting with PC staff. It’s the final step here, and if all goes well (which it is expected to) the proposal will be sent to Washington D.C. and then posted online so that donors back home can help by contributing (tax deductible) funds. After months of adjusting and integrating, it’s satisfying to be working on such an important project and seeing how the hard work of my community and I is paying off.
Aside from the water project I have been talking about on here for months, we have also been working on a few smaller projects. The first is securing life vests for the children. The village does not have a primary school, and kids who wish to continue on after kindergarten must travel by boat to a neighboring village. Originally, the village wanted to build a school to solve the problem. Aside from it being a lengthy and expensive project, I wanted to be sure we were able to focus on drinking water and a rice mill (still working on that). Instead, I proposed life vests. Each child will pay a small rental fee (SRD 1= about $.33) per month and pay it to the Women’s Organization. This ensures that when one of the vests needs to be replaced, there will be funding to do so. We are negotiating the costs with a local organization here, but the project should be done within a month or so. In addition to this, the village is working on obtaining funding for a welcome sign. Currently, there is nothing designating the village, so when travelers pass by on the river, they have no idea what village they are looking at. We are also talking to an organization about providing the sign, as we have already secured a vendor to donate the cost of actually printing the sign. (It will be a large metal sign saying ‘Welcome to Gengeston’ with a picture of the river in the background.) While these are much smaller projects, they are important to the village. About the rice mill, we were talking with one organization here, but will probably have to begin shopping the project with other groups here.
In addition to the recent training sessions, we also had a few events within the village. The community performs traditional washings periodically. This entails the men of the village gathering and grinding leaves, roots, etc. into a pulp. After this is done, the members gather to be ‘washed’ – or sitting together and have the mixture, along with river water, poured over them by a trusted member of the village. As he pours the mixtures, he says a blessing. Luckily for me, he somewhat speaks English, so I get the translated version. As I had something which smelled oddly familiar and delicious poured over my head, leaving me covered with leaves, etc., he said ‘This is for good wishes for a good year. Good luck Bendefolo (my village name (bende=long and lean folo = flower)). After this, as I kept trying to figure out what I now smelled like, my counterpart comes up to me. They are in favor of asking pretty obvious questions (i.e. ‘are you here?’ “did you wake up today?’ ‘are you going to the river?’ – while I have a huge bucket of dishes on my head) and so he asks “Did you get washed?” (as I am covered in leaves and stems) “Yes.” “Did you get pepper in your eyes?” “What? No!” Then after asking him what was in the mixture, I discovered there were onion roots and parts of peppers mixed with everything else. It seems a bit dangerous to have anything mixed with peppers (the ones here are tiny and HOT) poured over oneself. But, at least I solved the mystery – onions and peppers!
I held English lessons right before I headed into the city. We were writing letters to our pen pals in Missouri and I was excited when the class doubled in size. I took the kids’ pictures last time and put them with the letters so the kids in St. Joe would see who they were writing. Evidently, word had spread, and we had about 23 kids wanting to write letters. I thought 12 kids was a challenge last time, I was mistaken. Two and a half hours and one voice lost later, they letters were done and I was exhausted!! Erica I hope your kids enjoy them!
While putting together the proposal for the Durotank project, I put together a PDF slideshow that tells you more about the village and project. I can’t figure out if it’s possible to somehow post it here (I really am not computer savvy!). If you are interested in seeing it I will gladly email it to you, along with a letter about the project and the process we are going through. Feel free to email me at smith.cristin.e@gmail.com and I will happily get back to you as soon as I can. (You know I’m a bit limited on my emails here!)
I wanted to thank the Hildebrands and Zawodny-WalkUps for the care package!!! I was totally surprised and it was such a nice treat!! I saw the Taco John’s box and knew it had to be from someone in St. Joe! Everything was delicious!! Thanks again!! Also, I hope that everyone has a Happy Easter and everyone is doing well! I miss you all!
p.s. There are new pictures up! The link is at the top left of the page along with the info about how to access it.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
A Walk in the Jungle
Hello all! Well, it was definitely an adjustment being back at site after visiting the states. I found myself getting very homesick and missing everyone/thing back home. After about a month at site, time passed quickly (at times) and it seemed like I had visited the states months before, not just a few weeks prior.
I must admit I was disappointed when I returned to my site and no one asked me about the meetings I had told the village I would be having when I went to the city. I had hoped that they would ask me about them, when we could get started, how they could help, etc., and was discouraged when there was no interest. So, I began telling the villagers about what I had discussed with a few of the organizations anyway. After talking with PAHO, who I had hoped would work with me on a water project, I was informed that they wouldn’t be starting any new projects in my area on the river due to lack of funding. My contact at the organization returned to the Netherlands and was hoping to return with funding (sometime in the next 2 years). For this reason, I began looking into alternative funding and am thinking that I will more than likely use the Peace Corps Partnership Program for this project. While I still am in the beginning stages, I am trying to get started on this asap. I am talking to business, trying to come up with the cost of the project, and looking for donations from local business in regards to fuel and transportation costs. (Transporting the tanks will be between a 4-7 hour drive and then a 10 minute boat ride. The length of time depends on the condition of the muddy Afobaka road, which runs from the capital to the ‘port’ at the river where I live. During the rainy season, the road is a mess and the vans constantly get stuck and get flat tires. It is not a very fun trip!) This program requires the village to provide 25% of the required funding and receives the remainder of funding from various donors. I also had a meeting with the National Women’s Group in regards to a rice mill. The organization wanted to focus on a preschool, but as a volunteer I felt it was better to start smaller with the mill. I was concerned with the length of time it can take to complete the funding and building process, and was unsure about the time commitment from the village for such a lengthy project. If the mill goes well, I told the village we would then begin to look at larger projects.
I had a meeting with the heads of the village and it went well. I got some commitments from women who wanted to be trained on the rice mill, volunteers to build a shed to house it, and someone to sit in on proposal writing. The last task was the hardest, and it took several tries to convey that when I was gone, I wanted to know who was going to be able to ask organizations to help them with future projects, that I wanted to be sure if they needed things in the future, they would know how to go about asking for it. I was also glad to hear that the village thought that my language was better. It was a bit nerve racking to be talking in front of 30ish people in a foreign language, but with the help of my counterpart I was able to discuss everything I needed to.
I started teaching English lessons and am enjoying it. I have to say there are plenty of times I am up in front of 10-15 rowdy kids and I am wondering how my friends at home can teach for 8 hours a day (lessons are 1 hour, 2x/week). There are some students that are really impressing me with their desire to learn and how well they are understanding the lessons. There are others that bring me back to reality of the school systems there when after years of schooling they are still unsure of some of the letters of the alphabet. My grandma had sent magnetic letters (the kind you put on the fridge when you are little) and I put them in a bag and told the kids to pull one out, name the letter and something that started with that (in Saramaccan since their English vocab is tiny still). Some could, some couldn’t. We are going to be partnering with a Bessie Ellison in St. Joe and starting a pen-pal program. My friend Erica Matthias is a fourth grade teacher there and I think we are all excited to start writing. The kids are excited to have ‘friends’ in the states and ask if I will take them back with me to meet them when I leave.
As usual I try and do activities in the village. A few weeks ago I was relaxing in my hammock (pretty common) and a bunch of kids came running by with huge buckets. A few of them stop and tell me that they are going back into the jungle bc some men killed a huge wild boar. (Actually there were 2). Since I am always trying to ‘integrate’ I thought this would be a good way for the village to see that I am interested in things. I had gone to church that morning and had only eaten breakfast and had drunk little water at this point. I figured maybe it would be an hour or 2 walk into the jungle. I was wrong. I followed the kids and they are basically running to get to the animals bf the others do. I have on flip flops, and since we are in jungle, there are fallen trees, thorns, creeks, tree roots and ruts everywhere, so I have to walk slower and keep my eyes on the ground. A lot of the kids don’t even have shoes on, which amazes me. I am trying to keep up, but after about 2 hours of weaving on paths (they don’t even look like paths to me-we are trekking right through the middle of the jungle, ducking under tree limbs and climbing over vines. A few times I was at the head of the group, but had to stop bc I had no idea where I was even supposed to take my next step.) I was getting tired (keep in mind on a normal day of activity I walk maybe .25-.5 miles max) and super thirsty. After going to 3 different spots, we finally found the animals, and a group of older adults. A lot of them were surprised to see me yet, they seemed glad. By this time, its 6 pm and in my mind I keep thinking how it gets dark at 7. And how I could hardly find my way on the walk there when it was light out. I leave when the first group heads back (the animal way cut up and everyone –minus me- is carrying back huge chunks of it, some in buckets, others flour sacks, some just with legs slung over their shoulders). They put me in the middle of the group and I start to get worried when I can’t see the purple shirt in front of me that I have been following bc of the darkness. They keep calling out and asking where I am – and I respond by saying ‘I’m here’. Eventually it is pitch black, and my body is tired of walking for 5 hours. There were a few creeks that we passed, but they were stagnant so I didn’t drink any of the water, fearing I would get sick, so I am verrry thirsty. The girl that I followed there (about 13) takes my hand and leads me through the jungle for the entire was back. If she hadn’t, there is no way I would have been completely lost. She’s barefoot and feeling the path with her feet, since she is at the head of the group. She’s wearing a white shirt, but eventually I can’t even see that bc it’s so dark. She tells me about fallen trees and ditches, normally right at the time I mind them with my toes (needless to say my feet were very torn up after this!) We take a path different from the rest of the group bc supposedly it leads to the river and we can take a boat back to the village. At one point someone says the boat isn’t there and I picture myself sleeping in the middle of the jungle bc the idea of turning around seems rediculious. About half an hour later, I hear the river and then see the boat. I can’t think of a recent time when I have been happier! The 20 or so of us pile into the boat and take the 15 min ride back to Gengestone. When we get there, I notice that the electricity isn’t on (like the night before). I make my way up to my house and everyone greets me, tells me to go sit and drink water, and tells me I shouldn’t go that far into the jungle again. (Before we left, my neighbor asked if I could walk, and I think she means for a little while, on a path, not 6 hours through the jungle-I guess I should have asked more questions first!) I am literally exhausted and can feel my body being dehydrated. As soon as I walk in the door, my dad calls, and as much as I wanted to chat, my bones were tired and I was covered in mud, so I didn’t get to chat. I think it is safe to say that I won’t be heading that far bar in the jungle for awhile- or if I do I will definitely be prepared first! So that is my real jungle adventure thus far.
I want to that everyone for the care packages! Beth and Nic the one you sent was delicious and gone very quickly. I think the word was spread how I like Oreo’s bc I got 3 packages of them between all the boxes! I really appreciate you girls sending things – it always makes me so happy when I get mail- package of just a letter! Em- the stationary is super cute and very crafty of you! Elgin I am very excited to watch the entire season of Seinfeld but I am keep it quiet that I have it- I have a feeling that it would be a hot commodity! All you Smiths- the package you send was I think the largest one they have probably gotten at the peace corps office- you can never have enough beef jerky and nuts! Mom and Frank that you for all the goodies and treats! It was like Christmas in January when I got your box!! The speakers are perfect! American Family, I was so surprised and excited to receive a package from you! My mom told me how you all surprised her and how she got emotional, and that of course made me get teary eyed too! I really appreciate your thoughtfulness and am so glad that my mom has such amazing people to work with! I have shared some of the treats with other volunteers who don’t get as many goodies in the mail- and I think the favorite was the People magazine! And m&m’s- they taste different here! Again thank you and I am sure my mom has given you all hugs! UMAR- thanks for everything- I am glad that homeland security decided to let it through the 2nd time! The Adams’- thank you very much for the things that you included in Joe’s package- I was so excited for the mac and cheese- and the ornament is very pretty! Thanks to everyone for the Christmas cards and letters! Elizabeth -thank you for the card! I feel so lucky to have you all in my life! Hope all is well- this has been quite the post!!!
I must admit I was disappointed when I returned to my site and no one asked me about the meetings I had told the village I would be having when I went to the city. I had hoped that they would ask me about them, when we could get started, how they could help, etc., and was discouraged when there was no interest. So, I began telling the villagers about what I had discussed with a few of the organizations anyway. After talking with PAHO, who I had hoped would work with me on a water project, I was informed that they wouldn’t be starting any new projects in my area on the river due to lack of funding. My contact at the organization returned to the Netherlands and was hoping to return with funding (sometime in the next 2 years). For this reason, I began looking into alternative funding and am thinking that I will more than likely use the Peace Corps Partnership Program for this project. While I still am in the beginning stages, I am trying to get started on this asap. I am talking to business, trying to come up with the cost of the project, and looking for donations from local business in regards to fuel and transportation costs. (Transporting the tanks will be between a 4-7 hour drive and then a 10 minute boat ride. The length of time depends on the condition of the muddy Afobaka road, which runs from the capital to the ‘port’ at the river where I live. During the rainy season, the road is a mess and the vans constantly get stuck and get flat tires. It is not a very fun trip!) This program requires the village to provide 25% of the required funding and receives the remainder of funding from various donors. I also had a meeting with the National Women’s Group in regards to a rice mill. The organization wanted to focus on a preschool, but as a volunteer I felt it was better to start smaller with the mill. I was concerned with the length of time it can take to complete the funding and building process, and was unsure about the time commitment from the village for such a lengthy project. If the mill goes well, I told the village we would then begin to look at larger projects.
I had a meeting with the heads of the village and it went well. I got some commitments from women who wanted to be trained on the rice mill, volunteers to build a shed to house it, and someone to sit in on proposal writing. The last task was the hardest, and it took several tries to convey that when I was gone, I wanted to know who was going to be able to ask organizations to help them with future projects, that I wanted to be sure if they needed things in the future, they would know how to go about asking for it. I was also glad to hear that the village thought that my language was better. It was a bit nerve racking to be talking in front of 30ish people in a foreign language, but with the help of my counterpart I was able to discuss everything I needed to.
I started teaching English lessons and am enjoying it. I have to say there are plenty of times I am up in front of 10-15 rowdy kids and I am wondering how my friends at home can teach for 8 hours a day (lessons are 1 hour, 2x/week). There are some students that are really impressing me with their desire to learn and how well they are understanding the lessons. There are others that bring me back to reality of the school systems there when after years of schooling they are still unsure of some of the letters of the alphabet. My grandma had sent magnetic letters (the kind you put on the fridge when you are little) and I put them in a bag and told the kids to pull one out, name the letter and something that started with that (in Saramaccan since their English vocab is tiny still). Some could, some couldn’t. We are going to be partnering with a Bessie Ellison in St. Joe and starting a pen-pal program. My friend Erica Matthias is a fourth grade teacher there and I think we are all excited to start writing. The kids are excited to have ‘friends’ in the states and ask if I will take them back with me to meet them when I leave.
As usual I try and do activities in the village. A few weeks ago I was relaxing in my hammock (pretty common) and a bunch of kids came running by with huge buckets. A few of them stop and tell me that they are going back into the jungle bc some men killed a huge wild boar. (Actually there were 2). Since I am always trying to ‘integrate’ I thought this would be a good way for the village to see that I am interested in things. I had gone to church that morning and had only eaten breakfast and had drunk little water at this point. I figured maybe it would be an hour or 2 walk into the jungle. I was wrong. I followed the kids and they are basically running to get to the animals bf the others do. I have on flip flops, and since we are in jungle, there are fallen trees, thorns, creeks, tree roots and ruts everywhere, so I have to walk slower and keep my eyes on the ground. A lot of the kids don’t even have shoes on, which amazes me. I am trying to keep up, but after about 2 hours of weaving on paths (they don’t even look like paths to me-we are trekking right through the middle of the jungle, ducking under tree limbs and climbing over vines. A few times I was at the head of the group, but had to stop bc I had no idea where I was even supposed to take my next step.) I was getting tired (keep in mind on a normal day of activity I walk maybe .25-.5 miles max) and super thirsty. After going to 3 different spots, we finally found the animals, and a group of older adults. A lot of them were surprised to see me yet, they seemed glad. By this time, its 6 pm and in my mind I keep thinking how it gets dark at 7. And how I could hardly find my way on the walk there when it was light out. I leave when the first group heads back (the animal way cut up and everyone –minus me- is carrying back huge chunks of it, some in buckets, others flour sacks, some just with legs slung over their shoulders). They put me in the middle of the group and I start to get worried when I can’t see the purple shirt in front of me that I have been following bc of the darkness. They keep calling out and asking where I am – and I respond by saying ‘I’m here’. Eventually it is pitch black, and my body is tired of walking for 5 hours. There were a few creeks that we passed, but they were stagnant so I didn’t drink any of the water, fearing I would get sick, so I am verrry thirsty. The girl that I followed there (about 13) takes my hand and leads me through the jungle for the entire was back. If she hadn’t, there is no way I would have been completely lost. She’s barefoot and feeling the path with her feet, since she is at the head of the group. She’s wearing a white shirt, but eventually I can’t even see that bc it’s so dark. She tells me about fallen trees and ditches, normally right at the time I mind them with my toes (needless to say my feet were very torn up after this!) We take a path different from the rest of the group bc supposedly it leads to the river and we can take a boat back to the village. At one point someone says the boat isn’t there and I picture myself sleeping in the middle of the jungle bc the idea of turning around seems rediculious. About half an hour later, I hear the river and then see the boat. I can’t think of a recent time when I have been happier! The 20 or so of us pile into the boat and take the 15 min ride back to Gengestone. When we get there, I notice that the electricity isn’t on (like the night before). I make my way up to my house and everyone greets me, tells me to go sit and drink water, and tells me I shouldn’t go that far into the jungle again. (Before we left, my neighbor asked if I could walk, and I think she means for a little while, on a path, not 6 hours through the jungle-I guess I should have asked more questions first!) I am literally exhausted and can feel my body being dehydrated. As soon as I walk in the door, my dad calls, and as much as I wanted to chat, my bones were tired and I was covered in mud, so I didn’t get to chat. I think it is safe to say that I won’t be heading that far bar in the jungle for awhile- or if I do I will definitely be prepared first! So that is my real jungle adventure thus far.
I want to that everyone for the care packages! Beth and Nic the one you sent was delicious and gone very quickly. I think the word was spread how I like Oreo’s bc I got 3 packages of them between all the boxes! I really appreciate you girls sending things – it always makes me so happy when I get mail- package of just a letter! Em- the stationary is super cute and very crafty of you! Elgin I am very excited to watch the entire season of Seinfeld but I am keep it quiet that I have it- I have a feeling that it would be a hot commodity! All you Smiths- the package you send was I think the largest one they have probably gotten at the peace corps office- you can never have enough beef jerky and nuts! Mom and Frank that you for all the goodies and treats! It was like Christmas in January when I got your box!! The speakers are perfect! American Family, I was so surprised and excited to receive a package from you! My mom told me how you all surprised her and how she got emotional, and that of course made me get teary eyed too! I really appreciate your thoughtfulness and am so glad that my mom has such amazing people to work with! I have shared some of the treats with other volunteers who don’t get as many goodies in the mail- and I think the favorite was the People magazine! And m&m’s- they taste different here! Again thank you and I am sure my mom has given you all hugs! UMAR- thanks for everything- I am glad that homeland security decided to let it through the 2nd time! The Adams’- thank you very much for the things that you included in Joe’s package- I was so excited for the mac and cheese- and the ornament is very pretty! Thanks to everyone for the Christmas cards and letters! Elizabeth -thank you for the card! I feel so lucky to have you all in my life! Hope all is well- this has been quite the post!!!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Surprise Holiday!
Hello all! Sorry it has taken me a while to write, but I have been a bit busy lately. As some of you know, I was surprised with a trip back to the states for the holidays and am sitting in the Miami airport waiting to fly back to Suriname as I write this. When I arrived to the capital on the 17th of December, Joe was there a day early to surprise me. And then he surprised me again by asking if I wanted to go somewhere for x-mas. I think he means out to a nice dinner, and then he says “How about America?”. At first I was speechless, but then I was thrilled! So, we went to visit his family in Florida over Christmas and spent some time over New Year’s in KC and St. Joseph. It was so good to see people that I’d been missing and to meet Joe’s family. We both decided to surprise our families, Joe jumped out of the back of his dad’s car and his mom was definitely surprised. I scared my mom while she was vacuuming, and then ‘crashed’ dinner with my dad the next day. He was pretty speechless for all of dinner and my grandmother thought she was seeing things. It was entertaining to see the shocked looks on their faces- since I had talked to them all when I was in Florida over Christmas and told them I was still in Suriname, homesick and lonely. I felt bad about the little white lies, but a few days later it was worth it. It makes it difficult to go back to Suriname after having such a good time. Even though I’ve been gone nearly 8 months, it at times seemed as if I’d never left. Of course there were a lot of things that I needed to be updated on, but after that, things were just as they’d always been.
The last few weeks when I was at my site I made it a point to visit with villager that I hadn’t met with in a while. It was interesting to talk with them and work on my language. I also helped a neighbor with her roof. She has a thatch roof, so she had spent the previous week gathering leaves from the jungle. There was a group of about 7 other women and myself helping her. I was surprised that it only took about 3hours to complete it. In the few days following that, I spent my time cleaning my house and yard so when I returned from the city, it wouldn’t be overgrown. The villagers are very adamant about me hoeing my yard and removing nearly all signs of green life, and I got many ‘lessons’ on how to do it the correct Saramaccan way. I never realized how tiresome it was- especially in 95 degree weather.
So, in a few days I’ll be meeting with PAHO and The National Women’s Group to discuss first steps in regards to obtaining funding for running water, casaba and rice mills. There are also organizations that will come to the villages to help train the women in how to make items to generate income. Then, with this income they will be able to save up for the required amount they must contribute for the various projects. I have mentioned the idea to some of the villagers and they seemed open to making other items than kosus, such as jewelry, so I plan on meeting with the organizations that can help with this. I’ve been told that it is very difficult to get things done during the month of December, as a lot of people are out of their offices or on vacation, so I am hoping that by the time I return to Suriname I will be able to talk with some of the organizations. I am also planning on finally starting English lessons. I have to admit that I had been putting them off until I feel comfortable with my language, but know that I will never be fluent so I may as well start soon.
I am feeling a bit refreshed after having this break, but am still worrisome about the motivation of my village, especially since I’ve been gone. Often, if a volunteer leaves the village, then no project work gets done, so I am hoping that any possible motivation that was building within the people hasn’t diminished. There is so much of a challenge in getting the people to understand how they can benefit from things, but they themselves must have some input. My mind keeps going back to a young mother. I asked her if she worked with the women’s group (which is the group that will be working with me for these projects) and she said no. I asked why not and she shrugged and said she was busy. After being in this culture I do understand that the villagers must work to live. Many of them are content with what they have in their lives, so it is difficult to help them understand how a little work, or even simply attending a few meetings can help not only their lives but their children’s lives as well. Things that we would think make obvious sense to us are completely ridiculous and far-fetched to them. I am hoping that after meeting with the organizations and having some sound steps that we need to follow, I will be able to finally begin working with the village on these projects.
I am so glad that I was able to visit with everyone over the holidays! I had been planning on a visit back home for Nic’s wedding in September, so it was nice to get a chance to go back 8 months earlier. I think Joe and I really had a great time visiting with everyone, eating delicious food, taking warm showers and sleeping in comfy beds. It is amazing to think of the ‘luxuries’ of living in the states and how I’ve gotten used to living without them-but I must admit that I’d much rather be able to go for sushi and use a washing machine whenever I wanted!
Girls- it was so good to see you! Nic-thanks for the sushi but I promise you sometime I will actually pay for your dinner instead! Beth – I’m sorry I didn’t get to see you more but NYE really did me in! Elgin and Rachel and Frank-thanks for the help with the surprises! All my fam – it was so good to actually see you and I miss you already. The Adams’-thank you for welcoming me into your home! I appreciate everything at it was so nice to meet you!
Next time you hear from me (Around Feb. 5th) I’ll be in Suriname and I hope to be updating you on my progress. As nice as it sometimes is to just relax down here, I am definitely ready to get to work!
The last few weeks when I was at my site I made it a point to visit with villager that I hadn’t met with in a while. It was interesting to talk with them and work on my language. I also helped a neighbor with her roof. She has a thatch roof, so she had spent the previous week gathering leaves from the jungle. There was a group of about 7 other women and myself helping her. I was surprised that it only took about 3hours to complete it. In the few days following that, I spent my time cleaning my house and yard so when I returned from the city, it wouldn’t be overgrown. The villagers are very adamant about me hoeing my yard and removing nearly all signs of green life, and I got many ‘lessons’ on how to do it the correct Saramaccan way. I never realized how tiresome it was- especially in 95 degree weather.
So, in a few days I’ll be meeting with PAHO and The National Women’s Group to discuss first steps in regards to obtaining funding for running water, casaba and rice mills. There are also organizations that will come to the villages to help train the women in how to make items to generate income. Then, with this income they will be able to save up for the required amount they must contribute for the various projects. I have mentioned the idea to some of the villagers and they seemed open to making other items than kosus, such as jewelry, so I plan on meeting with the organizations that can help with this. I’ve been told that it is very difficult to get things done during the month of December, as a lot of people are out of their offices or on vacation, so I am hoping that by the time I return to Suriname I will be able to talk with some of the organizations. I am also planning on finally starting English lessons. I have to admit that I had been putting them off until I feel comfortable with my language, but know that I will never be fluent so I may as well start soon.
I am feeling a bit refreshed after having this break, but am still worrisome about the motivation of my village, especially since I’ve been gone. Often, if a volunteer leaves the village, then no project work gets done, so I am hoping that any possible motivation that was building within the people hasn’t diminished. There is so much of a challenge in getting the people to understand how they can benefit from things, but they themselves must have some input. My mind keeps going back to a young mother. I asked her if she worked with the women’s group (which is the group that will be working with me for these projects) and she said no. I asked why not and she shrugged and said she was busy. After being in this culture I do understand that the villagers must work to live. Many of them are content with what they have in their lives, so it is difficult to help them understand how a little work, or even simply attending a few meetings can help not only their lives but their children’s lives as well. Things that we would think make obvious sense to us are completely ridiculous and far-fetched to them. I am hoping that after meeting with the organizations and having some sound steps that we need to follow, I will be able to finally begin working with the village on these projects.
I am so glad that I was able to visit with everyone over the holidays! I had been planning on a visit back home for Nic’s wedding in September, so it was nice to get a chance to go back 8 months earlier. I think Joe and I really had a great time visiting with everyone, eating delicious food, taking warm showers and sleeping in comfy beds. It is amazing to think of the ‘luxuries’ of living in the states and how I’ve gotten used to living without them-but I must admit that I’d much rather be able to go for sushi and use a washing machine whenever I wanted!
Girls- it was so good to see you! Nic-thanks for the sushi but I promise you sometime I will actually pay for your dinner instead! Beth – I’m sorry I didn’t get to see you more but NYE really did me in! Elgin and Rachel and Frank-thanks for the help with the surprises! All my fam – it was so good to actually see you and I miss you already. The Adams’-thank you for welcoming me into your home! I appreciate everything at it was so nice to meet you!
Next time you hear from me (Around Feb. 5th) I’ll be in Suriname and I hope to be updating you on my progress. As nice as it sometimes is to just relax down here, I am definitely ready to get to work!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Hello all! Well, I've been in the city since Wednesday- hopefully you all had a good Thanksgiving! It was definitely a lot different being in 90 degree weather instead of the Missouri cold! The Ambassador had the PC staff and volunteers over for dinner-turkey and mashed potatoes, a few other sides and pie. Unfortunately there were no party potatoes, ham or green bean casserole! Luckily my mom sent the ingredients for the casserole- it really is a must for the holidays!-so the following night when our group of volunteers made Mexican- it only seemed appropriate to have some green beans! Getting through the first major holiday was rough- talking to family when they are all sitting around the table back home and knowing what (and who) we were missing was difficult for a lot of the volunteers. Unfortunately some of the volunteers were unable to come in for the holiday bc of their site location and the cost of coming in (Joe and some others) and they were missed (one in particular by me!). I did sent a box full of treats, veggies and a bottle of red down to Joe's site via the airline that travels there- so hopefully those helped him a bit!
The past three weeks at site have been somewhat eventful project-wise. After coming back from the city the last time, I had hoped to finally have a new latrine built and plywood put under my zinc roof (it helps a bit with the heat- it's a sauna inside during the day!), but was disappointed to see that nothing had been done. Luckily the PC doctor can get things moving and talked to my counterpart- so hopefully THIS time when I get back there will be more progress! I also tried to have my first official meeting when I first returned from the city. Joe was there so I had some moral support, we told a lot of the villagers when/where, and attempted to make 'no bake cookies' (which basically turned into balls of sugar-it’s hard to bake with no oven!) for the meeting. Needless to say, when not one person showed, I was a bit upset. Two weeks later, I was able to work a meeting into a funeral type meeting called a broko day. (Whenever someone from the village dies, they get together and dance, sing and eat at certain time intervals (1 week, 6 weeks, 6 months and so on) to remember that person. Sometimes they last a few hours, sometimes they go until 6 am.) My counterpart and I took advantage of that and tried to talk to the villagers about what they wanted me to help them do (Caroline was there with me this time- it's very nerve racking to speak in Saramaccan to a few people, let alone 50!) So, the village decided they wanted running water, durotanks, and machines to help with the rice and casaba, and a pre-school. Next, I'll try and have a meeting to see who is going to help me with what projects and decide what organizations I can hopefully work with to get some of these goals accomplished. There are various ones here in Suriname, including UNICEF, PAHO and their National Women’s Movement, that I will more than likely work with. There is also a small tourist lodge- 3 huts and a meeting house of sorts- that is being worked on by a villager (for the past 9 years) and hopefully I will be able to help him generate some clients with some basic marketing, etc.
There's a lot of other possibilities for projects running through my head, but the big problem is getting people motivated to do things. That is the main obstacle we face here – motivation. The Surinamese culture prefers to be polite and basically tell you what you would like to hear, instead of what they really feel. This is challenging when you are trying to get people to commit to things, and they tell you 'ok, sure' but really they mean 'no way'. This is something that PC tried to help the volunteers understand and work around, but I am not sure exactly how to do that, yet am hoping with time I will be able to do so. I think it is going to take a lot of trial and error. Most of the villages are used to NGOs and other groups visiting for a few days and then providing the villages with items, such as rice, materials, etc., so they are often used to 'handouts', which is discouraging. Wanting people to accomplish things and help better their community is exasperating when they are used to saying 'give me' and 'what did you bring me' and are indeed given what they ask for. I know this is one of the most tiring things for PCVs here- being told 'da me ___'. (Give me ___). At first I think we were all shocked at how blunt people are with that, but you do get used to it at time and it is easier to say no.
I have not begun teaching English yet, as I wanted to wait and talk to the village about what they wanted me to help them with first. I will probably begin the first of the year, as I'll be back to the city for the holidays where I will also trying to meet with various organizations to get an idea of what can be done to help get my projects moving. It can take a very long time to obtain funding for things, so I am interested to see what I will be able to do during my time here.
I miss you all and love you- it is so difficult being away, especially this time of year! I was sad to miss Black Friday for the first time in years! Shopping in Suriname really isn’t the same- and oh yeah, there’s also the factor of not really having an income! Nic – I got the Halloween box and absolutely love everything! Tell ‘the boys’ thanks too! Mom the casserole was delicious! Brea I got your card – you look very teacherly/ high school senior like in your school photo (thanks for the handwriting paper- I really will try and work on my writing here guys- I know you have been having to skip some words in my letters!) Frank Happy Late Birthday! Everyone – enjoy the cold bc I am very jealous of it! Frani and Elizabeth- thank you for the cards- what a nice surprise! Hello Ronda! I hope that you had a good holiday as well- I really wish Joe would have been able to come in- but he said he was making pumpkin bread, so I guess he was trying for his own Thanksgiving dinner of sorts! Hopefully you will like reading about what we are up to here!
Also- there are new pictures up!
The past three weeks at site have been somewhat eventful project-wise. After coming back from the city the last time, I had hoped to finally have a new latrine built and plywood put under my zinc roof (it helps a bit with the heat- it's a sauna inside during the day!), but was disappointed to see that nothing had been done. Luckily the PC doctor can get things moving and talked to my counterpart- so hopefully THIS time when I get back there will be more progress! I also tried to have my first official meeting when I first returned from the city. Joe was there so I had some moral support, we told a lot of the villagers when/where, and attempted to make 'no bake cookies' (which basically turned into balls of sugar-it’s hard to bake with no oven!) for the meeting. Needless to say, when not one person showed, I was a bit upset. Two weeks later, I was able to work a meeting into a funeral type meeting called a broko day. (Whenever someone from the village dies, they get together and dance, sing and eat at certain time intervals (1 week, 6 weeks, 6 months and so on) to remember that person. Sometimes they last a few hours, sometimes they go until 6 am.) My counterpart and I took advantage of that and tried to talk to the villagers about what they wanted me to help them do (Caroline was there with me this time- it's very nerve racking to speak in Saramaccan to a few people, let alone 50!) So, the village decided they wanted running water, durotanks, and machines to help with the rice and casaba, and a pre-school. Next, I'll try and have a meeting to see who is going to help me with what projects and decide what organizations I can hopefully work with to get some of these goals accomplished. There are various ones here in Suriname, including UNICEF, PAHO and their National Women’s Movement, that I will more than likely work with. There is also a small tourist lodge- 3 huts and a meeting house of sorts- that is being worked on by a villager (for the past 9 years) and hopefully I will be able to help him generate some clients with some basic marketing, etc.
There's a lot of other possibilities for projects running through my head, but the big problem is getting people motivated to do things. That is the main obstacle we face here – motivation. The Surinamese culture prefers to be polite and basically tell you what you would like to hear, instead of what they really feel. This is challenging when you are trying to get people to commit to things, and they tell you 'ok, sure' but really they mean 'no way'. This is something that PC tried to help the volunteers understand and work around, but I am not sure exactly how to do that, yet am hoping with time I will be able to do so. I think it is going to take a lot of trial and error. Most of the villages are used to NGOs and other groups visiting for a few days and then providing the villages with items, such as rice, materials, etc., so they are often used to 'handouts', which is discouraging. Wanting people to accomplish things and help better their community is exasperating when they are used to saying 'give me' and 'what did you bring me' and are indeed given what they ask for. I know this is one of the most tiring things for PCVs here- being told 'da me ___'. (Give me ___). At first I think we were all shocked at how blunt people are with that, but you do get used to it at time and it is easier to say no.
I have not begun teaching English yet, as I wanted to wait and talk to the village about what they wanted me to help them with first. I will probably begin the first of the year, as I'll be back to the city for the holidays where I will also trying to meet with various organizations to get an idea of what can be done to help get my projects moving. It can take a very long time to obtain funding for things, so I am interested to see what I will be able to do during my time here.
I miss you all and love you- it is so difficult being away, especially this time of year! I was sad to miss Black Friday for the first time in years! Shopping in Suriname really isn’t the same- and oh yeah, there’s also the factor of not really having an income! Nic – I got the Halloween box and absolutely love everything! Tell ‘the boys’ thanks too! Mom the casserole was delicious! Brea I got your card – you look very teacherly/ high school senior like in your school photo (thanks for the handwriting paper- I really will try and work on my writing here guys- I know you have been having to skip some words in my letters!) Frank Happy Late Birthday! Everyone – enjoy the cold bc I am very jealous of it! Frani and Elizabeth- thank you for the cards- what a nice surprise! Hello Ronda! I hope that you had a good holiday as well- I really wish Joe would have been able to come in- but he said he was making pumpkin bread, so I guess he was trying for his own Thanksgiving dinner of sorts! Hopefully you will like reading about what we are up to here!
Also- there are new pictures up!
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