Cristin's Peace Corps Adventure

Time to Move On

2010-07-05T11:21:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! It’s hard to believe that this update talks about the last time I was at site-the last 2.5 weeks as a volunteer in Gengeston. It was an eventful few weeks!

When it came time to head from the city to the village for my last time there, we experienced the worst ride I’ve had here in Suriname. The wagi was filled to the max and already running late. Once we got about 10 minutes out of the city, the van began to run funny; you could feel there was a problem. It started to overheat, so all 12 of us piled out of the wagi to wait on the side of the road while the driver attempted to fix it. Then we piled back in, only to stop again less than a minute up the road, and pile out. This went on probably half a dozen times before the driver realized he wasn’t going to be able to fix the car. During this time, all of us passengers are sitting on the side of the road, in the sun, trying to ration out our bottle of water bc who knew how long until we were going to find another ride, an obviously it’s really hot here! About four hours of sitting on the road and trying to wave down rides, we were able to find a ride back to the city with another volunteer and her father who were heading to the city (Hello Cooks!) from a stay at a tourist camp. What a long day – we all just wanted to get somewhere to get out of the heat and sun- and some water! But, throughout it all I just kept thinking- this is my last trip to site ever, so it doesn’t matter how badly it goes.

I spent some time visiting other volunteer’s sites for the last time. At my friend Jack’s we spent the afternoon working on his lathe where he helped me to turn a project to take home. We wanted to do something simple, so we decided on an egg. He constructed the lathe himself and has made several pieces of furniture, rolling pins and candle holders on it. Quite impressive. Even though I spent most of the time watching-it’s hard on your calves when you’re pumping it to turn the lathe-it was a really enjoyable afternoon. It was strange to visit villages for the last time, to walk the trail between them for the last time.

One of the things I have been wanting to do is see some monkeys up close. You know there are everywhere here, but it’s difficult for me to see them without my glasses (which I haven’t worn since I first got here), so I made a point to bring them to site. My friend Saba took Johanna and I out in his boat at dusk in search of them, but unfortunately we didn’t see any. The next morning, I got a call from him who said to meet him at the river. A family of monkeys was swinging around right outside the village! They were still a little ways away, but we could clearly make them out, them swinging from tree to tree with their long tails.

We had a meeting in regards to the last project we were working on: latrines. The men working on them were able to finish the three before I left. It was a simple project, and unfortunately we weren’t able to build as many as we would have liked, but the village will definitely benefit from them. We placed them in locations close to the elderly villagers, giving them a closer place to use the restroom, since many have major difficulties walking.

I spent a lot of time with the villagers I’d become closest to, going to their grounds to bring back wood (yes-carrying it on my head), visiting their work grounds where they cut wood, and just sitting with them at night chatting. I was trying to cram so much into the little time I had left there. I had so many conversations about America, what I would do there, when I would come back, what kind of work I would do, the family I would one day have (and at their request must bring to the village to meet them). There were so many time we would be talking about the future and it would hit me: this is it, this is the end, and who know if I would see these people again. The elderly would tell me when I visit in 5 years or so they would be gone, they would ‘lose life’ and I would tell them of course they would still be here! Yet deep down knowing this would probably be our final goodbye. I held back tears several times, which is very difficult to do!

So clearly the last two weeks were an emotional roller coaster, but I don’t think it really hit me until I was having my going away party, 3 days before I left. The day of the festivities, other volunteers came to my site to help me celebrate. Even though there was a group of us prepared to do the cooking, my friends in the village wouldn’t hear of it. They cooked everything (minus the popcorn) over wood fires in the shelter next to my house, preparing huge batches of beans, rice, chicken and noodles. It was a busy and exciting afternoon with women from all over the village stopping by to help. The party began later that night when my counterpart arrive with gigantic speakers, and as soon as he put the music on everyone was dancing. Handing out the food to a whole village was a bit stressful-forming lines wasn’t really working so everyone was just crowding around thrusting their dishes. The whole party had a really good feel to it, yet it still had sad undertones. Friends were giving me going away gift and we took so many pictures throughout the night. Everyone danced and had a good time, telling me the next day what a good party it had been. It was a huge success! Saturday was spent recouperating from the night before and packing up my house, which was a much bigger project than I had thought. Some of the kids helped me clean, in exchange for books, toys and candy that I was giving away. Giving away an entire house was quite the process. I wanted to be sure everyone got something and tried to keep things fair, but towards the end I just wanted all the stuff out!

Sunday was my last day at site and it started with church. The preacher gave a really nice speech about me, saying how much I had accomplished over the 2 years and how grateful the village was. After, the women’s organization presented me with a fancy kosu and thanked me again. It was such a nice service and very thoughtful-I was crying for most of it!

Later that day, I walked around the village saying goodbye and spending time with the people I had grown so close to and become so interested in. There was still more things from my house to give away, so I spent the afternoon handing things out. The women’s org cooked a lunch for me of rice and meat, so I group of us gathered to eat together. I was amazed at how helpful the village was, helping to clean my house, wash my dishes, and clean out my Durotank. Everyone was stopping by to bring more going away gifts and say goodbye; there were people constantly in my house the last day. I spent the evening at my neighbors house sitting on the front stoop in the dark and talking. (The village ran out of oil again-my last night there!). It was a really special time, my friends letting me cry-but telling me I didn’t need to be crying bc we would see each other again. The sweetest part was when little Herman fell asleep on my lap. It was so sad to think about how much I’ve grown to care for these kids and how I was uncertain of when I would see them again. I headed off to bed with my neighbor calling after me “Dumi weki lobi” or “sleep well love”.

The next morning, I woke up early for one last run which ended up being the best and longest one I’ve had here. I decided to take a turn in the path that I normally don’t venture past because it’s not cut very clearly, and I am so thankful I did. The path curved around to run along the river, with a huge tree as a bridge to cross the creek. It was beautiful. I then went back home and cleaned up before I made my last walk around the village. I handed out kosus to my favorite women and gave Johnny Walker to my counterpart and my friend Saba-they love the Red Label and it’s pricey here. It felt so surreal for my time to literally be ending. When it was time to go, the women carried my things to the river and then sat on the bank to wave good bye. I gave Herman and Teddy kisses goodbye, and had long hugs with Lizbeth and the older women. A boat of women passing by waved farewell, and the school kids lined up on the river bank to shout good bye. It was so difficult, yet a group of friends were with me in my boat, one with her arm around my shoulders the whole time. After we arrived to Atjoni, Peace Corps was there with a truck to take me to the city. We all gave hugs and said goodbye, promising to call and stay in touch, and them thanking me for helping them and I thanked them for helping me as well. I turned and saw them waving from the rearview mirror. The time had come to start the next chapter of my life, but this was one I would hold dearly and never forget. I'd spent alot of time listening to Tom Petty and found some of his lyrics to be very fitting and listened to them as I recounded the past 2 year adventure:

"It's time to move on, time to get going
What lies ahead, I have no way of knowing
But under my feet, baby the grass is growng
It's time to move on, it's time to get going
Broken skyline, movin' through the airport
She's an honest defector
Conscientious objector
Now her own protector
Broken skyline, which way to love land
Which way to something better
Which way to forgiveness
Which way do I go"

One month to go!

2010-06-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! This past time out at site was my second to last stay in the village. I got onto the boat to head to my village and noticed a lot of the women wearing black and white, which usually means that someone has passed away. As it turns out, a village elder, around 90 years old, had recently passed away. His family was bringing his body back to the village, from the city, in order to be buried. The next three days were full of activity. People were cleaning up their yards and getting things ready for the large influx of visitors who would be coming to pay their respects. The nights were filled with 3 hour long singing sessions and the days were filled with the guests sitting together, chatting, eating and sewing. On the night of the burial, I went with one of my good friends who has since left the village. Once at the church, we stayed on the outskirts of the group, and then another one of my friends pulled me to the front so I could see better. During the short service, there were a few readings and hymns. Then the villagers passed by the coffin, waving their hands over the head of the body, the casket which had been opened. After this, everyone proceeded into the jungle where the body was buried. Eight days later, the village continued the services with another night filled with singing and dancing, in remembrance of the deceased.

I spent a few days at other sites, taking time to run on the trails between the villages. It was a bit odd knowing it would be the last time visiting certain villages and seeing certain people. The rain has been coming down very heavily, making the river and creeks rise. This also makes the creeks crossing all the trails swell; in order to get to my trail I have to wade through a thigh-high creek and in another spot, it’s took full to pass, so I’ve been making a lot of laps. The kids have been running along with me. There’s one girl who has ran with me several times, and her brother, 8, who ran with me the entire time- 45 minutes. I was really impressed with him and his endurance! His sister was a bit jealous, saying next time she wasn’t going to stop early. Sibling rivalry!

A group of girls and I had a pedicure party before I came into the city. They are always talking about my pink toenails, so the day before I left I sat down with all the little girls at my house, a group of 7. They all carefully washed their feet and then we took turns painting toes. They absolutely loved it and looked so cute with all their matching feet! I’m sure it’s something that we’ll do again before I go –next time they say I have to do their fingers too.

The village received a small amount of funding for our latrine project. After a few meetings, we decided to build three latrines, one placed in each area of the village. The men promised me that they would work hard and complete the project before I leave- which gives them about 3 weeks to get the materials, dig the 2 meter deep holes, and build the latrines. It’s something that should be doable, and I’m hoping that will be completed quickly.

I’ve had to say goodbye to a few of my friends already. They have left the village to go to other villages far upriver, and won’t be returning until after I leave. It was hard to say goodbye, considering who knows if I will ever see them again. I would possibly like to visit one day, maybe in ten years or so, but it is hard to know what the village will be like then. We exchanged phone numbers and promised to call each other, said we’d miss each other and thanked one another for everything we’ve taught each other over the past two years. With a hug and a ‘waka bun’ (walk well) farewell, we parted ways. It is hard to imagine doing this with my entire village soon. I’m sure it will be an emotional last few weeks.

So, with that short update, I’m now headed back to the village for my final 16 days. It is so hard to imagine that it really is coming to an end, and impossible to predict the readjustments I’ll face when I return. Never the less, the time is approaching to start the next chapter-one I am very excited for. Hope everyone is well. See you very soon!

Just keep running, running

2010-05-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! Things are going well here in Suriname.

During the three weeks I was at site I decided to take up running again. It’s basically been 2 years or so since I really ran (which I frequently did bf coming here) and I was a bit concerned on how long it would take to get back into shape. There is a trail in my village, about 2 miles in length. I was nervous to run on it by myself, as people in the village kept telling me I had to take someone with me, watch out for snakes, there are too many mosquitoes, and various other reasons to dissuade me. Since I was going to be going home in less than 3 months, I wanted to start working it into my routine again, so I just politely laughed, told them I wasn’t scared, and began my runs. Three weeks into it, my morning jogs have become a topic of conversation in the village. Every morning, instead of villagers asking me what I’m cooking, it’s “Did you run today? How many times? Are you tired?” It’s a nice change from the usual topics. I have women telling me their going to run w/ me so they’ll become ‘skinnier for their men’. One morning I had two 5 year old accompany me, and I was amazed at how fast and how long they could run! I took the time to show them some stretches, and then they showed me how to catch crabs in the creek where we cooled off. The path is definitely a bit rough, plenty of roots, holes, and ant/snake/lizard mounds, but there is something special about running a trail through the jungle and hearing the monkeys and birds around you. I always keep my eyes down on the path incase there are any snakes though!

One morning I was stretching, leaning on a ‘tree’, and then I took a closer look at it. I realized it was a signal for a gun trap, made up of sticks placed in certain positions/locations. This of course concerned me, and I asked my best friend about it. He then proceeded to tell me that it was indeed a signal for a trap, but the traps would be out in the midst of the jungle, not placed on the path. He assured me I would be fine, and then began to tell me all the specifics of the traps, the types of animals that are killed with certain ones, and people in the village who had been injured by them.

I have been spending a lot of time with the villagers that I am closest to. People are constantly asking me if my site is being replaced, if I am taking all my things with me, and if I will throw a party before I leave. PC sites typically have 3 volunteers in a row, then maybe more after 5 or 10 years, allowing other villages who haven’t had volunteers to host them. They tell me I have to stay another year, and I say I can’t my friends and family miss me- I have to go home and find a job and a man. (They love this response! Everyone here has a man and I joke about it with my close friends. They say “Bendefolo-you need to go home, find a nice handsome man who laughs, have him buy you lots of things (when a man asks for a women here they give her tons of dishes and clothes/kosus), and then have 4 kids- you must have 2 boys and 2 girls. Then you are done.”) They understand that it’s time for me to leave soon, but I tell them one day, after I find work and have money, I will come back to see them. I’m frequently told “Bendefolo-take this baby with you-they want to go to America”, and I respond by saying I don’t have the money to pay for a baby, “give it to your mom” they say. I tell them she already watches my dog for me. All in good fun!

Since my time is coming to an end, that means a new group of volunteer’s time is just beginning. The arrival of the new group was a week ago, and they are already off to their home stay, where they’ll be for 6 weeks bf going to site. Things seem to be moving much quicker for them. It was very bittersweet/melancholy to meet the group that is replacing mine, seeing them straight off the bus from the airport, and visiting the place where PC holds the training for the last time ever, sitting in the room I stayed in during training. Strange how quickly 2 years has gone by. I remember coming here and being told by other volunteers that it would go fast, and thinking, ‘how can 2 years go fast?’. But it really has, so much has happened, so much has changed, here, at home, with myself, other volunteers, family, friends, the world. It’s hard to take it all in. It was exciting to see the fresh faces, help with their trainings, and answer their questions. Being in the role of the old volunteers, those on the way out, and telling the new group what to expect (or more what not to) for 2 years was full of mixed emotions. They seem like a good enthusiastic group, and I’m sure they will do well.

The last project I was working on was a latrine project. We have been promised funding by a local organization here. It’s been 3 months, and we are yet to receive the funds. The organization isn’t responding to any requests or attempts at communication by Peace Corps, so all we can do is wait and keep calling. Unfortunately, I am not thinking the project will be completed before I leave. There is another organization I spoke with who is interested in installing an innovative type of latrine, but the project will not begin until next fall. It is disappointing bc I had really been hoping to finish with this project, but know that the community has been helped in other ways during my service, so I still feel thankful the other projects have been completed.

I hope things are going well back home with everyone! I can’t wait to see you all-so soon!

The countdown is on!

2010-04-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! The past two months have been so hectic I didn’t realize how long it’d been since I last posted. Here’s what’s been going on:

I’ve been traveling around a bit. I headed to my friend Kasey’s village with a few other volunteers for a few days. His village is a bit closer to the city, so the trip was much better than my usual ride. And we returned to the city in a car- a first for me! During the visit we swam in the river near his site and also headed to the beach at Brokopondo Lake, where we also had our ‘water safety’ training during training nearly 2 years ago. It was good to revisit-it seemed like just yesterday when we were jumping out of the boat in our life vest getting lessons on how to float safely.

I also made a trip further into the lake with a group of other PCV’s. Johanna and I had been planning on going before we left, so we decided to get a group together to go. So, over St. Patty’s Day we headed into the lake, which was about a 2 hour boat ride. (The lake is manmade- the area was flooded so it is full of trees-called the ‘river bones’.) The sun is terribly strong here, especially when it is reflecting off the water. A few of us got awful sunburns, but aside from that it was an enjoyable trip. We spent the days in the water floating around, visiting ‘beaches’ or basically mud pits, and fishing for piranha (I stayed away from that-a friend from my village showed me a bite he received from one and it did not look pretty!). We stayed in a 2 level house-my friend Saba was our boatman and arranged our lodging-but everyone was a bit nervous about sleeping on the bottom level of the house; there were some justified concerns that it might collapse.

After these trips, it was time to head into the city with the rest of the volunteers from my group, SUR14. We had our official ‘Close of Service’ conference, or COS. It was three days filled with talk of resumes, job and career searching, and readjusting. It was a bit overwhelming to take it all in and be forced to think about what is going to happen when we return. Previous volunteers visited to warn us about how hard it was going to be to become reacclimated to the states and living ‘normally’. I think for a few of us it was an emotional time. I was asked to put together the COS closing service, the last session we all had together. With the help of a few others I put together a 25 minute slideshow of our past 2 years. To see everything we have been through and how much we have all changed during the time here, both mentally and physically, is astounding. I know I was having a bit of a reality check every time I previewed it, realizing that some of these people I had spent two years with I might not really see again, even those that were a huge part of my time here. When it came time for the closing service, I think it was definitely a success. We spent a lot of time coming up with the soundtrack, which made it even better. Sitting in the same room with everyone and watching the past 2 years playing in front of us made a few of us emotional. After, I got up to say a few words, and I don’t think it comes as a surprise to anyone that I started to tear up. I feel very lucky to have spent my time here with these amazing people, even though at times it has been difficult and felt nearly impossible, I have always felt their support. I have never felt I was doing this alone.

After the COS conference, I stayed in the city to wait for my mom’s arrival. She visit for 10 days and we spent the time at my site, in the city, and at a tourist lodge. We had originally planned an actual Easter dinner at my site, complete w/ ham, green bean casserole, stuffing and potato salad. Unfortunately, the bag which held all these treats from America got left on the boat, so for Easter dinner we managed potato salad, pasta and egg plant parmesan. Peace Corps teaches you to improvise! The bag was returned a few days later so we will instead be having Easter the next time a big group of us gets together! The village was excited to meet her-although it was hard for them to grasp the idea of exactly how far she had come and why her ‘man’ wasn’t with her. She also got the change to meet my neighbor. She is quite the character. I’m sure I’ve written about her to some of you-or have been on the phone with you when she decides to stop by! All in all it was a very good visit and I think my mom will tell you it was ‘an experience’. A lot of other PCV’s have had family and friends visiting recently. I hope you all also had a good and safe experience here!

Project-wise we are still waiting to hear about the money for our latrine project. We were told by an organization here that they would give us SRD 5000, but that was over 2 months ago. We had to put a deadline on receiving the funds in order to ensure we have enough time to complete the project while I am still here. So, it is out of the village’s hands and all we can do it wait for the funding to be deposited.

The most exciting news it that I have received my date for when I will be returning home: July 7th. It seems crazy that I will be home in less than 3 months. I’m already making plans to visit everyone when I get back. There is a lot of catching up to do! I hope you are all well and I look forward to seeing you soon!

p.s.- There are new pictures up under Suriname 2010. Instructions for the link are at the top left of the page.

Sorry for the delay!

2010-02-10T13:03:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone! Sorry it has been so long since I’ve updated. I’ve had a busy few months.

The last time I wrote I was getting excited for a trip back home to the states for the holidays. The trip was filled with friends, family, food and lots of snow! It was nice to get away from the heat and humidity of Suriname, but I have to admit after being snowed in for nearly 3 days I was getting a bit tired of all the white stuff. It was so nice being able to spend time with everyone, even though I was unable to meet up with a few of you, but I will be sure to see you when I return- less than 5 months now!

I was out of my site for nearly 5 weeks so I was a bit nervous to go back and get accustomed to the village lifestyle. It amazing how even after being back in America for only a few weeks, there were times I felt like I’d never even left home. Of course, there were plenty of times I got a bit overwhelmed- like stepping into the Atlanta airport and being surrounded by so many other travelers. Or going Christmas shopping and being in the midst of so many crazy shoppers- of course I got over that quickly and spent plenty of time shopping while I was home!

When I showed up at the village, my close friends greeted me with big hugs and yelling their excitement. It was a nice welcome back! The first day back I went down to the river and was surprised to be by myself. Usually there are a handful of women washing things there, but this time I was solo. So I washed and tried to take it all in again- back on the Suriname River instead of in the Show Me State. After about 30 minutes of floating around, 2 little girls ran down to the river and charged at me for my shampoo-they say it smells better than theirs. I had brought back a gigantic bag of Werther’s candies that my grandpa had sent with me, handing them out to the villagers and saying they were sent from home. Of course I gave extra to Teddy’s mom since they were sent by his namesake. I was amazed once again at how big Teddy had gotten even after only 5 weeks away. His mom and I spent a few days trying to help him learn to walk-he’s getting there. And now he is saying Dada. It was a little strange at first to be dressing in kosus and sports bras again every day, but I got used to it. I spent some time making casaba bread with a neighbor. I felt like I was crying nonstop for 3 hours- it’s cooked over a wood fire so the smoke really stings your eyes. The best part was when she made a dessert- it’s thin layers of the bread filled with a mix of sugar and shredded coconut. After it’s done, you put butter on it. I’m not a coconut fan- but it has so much sugar it’s just sweet and chewy. It made the day worth all the smoke!

I was anxious to see how the Durotank project had come along. The village did purchase the second round of tanks- another 41 were brought to the village and installed. There is a bit of a hold up in building some of the stands, bc some of the villagers don’t have the sand needed to mix with the cement. Granted, there is a river filled with sand in it, so I’m assuming this problem will be solved quickly. But then again, things don’t get resolved very quickly in this country. So the Durotank project is basically done. The second project, a welcome sign sponsored by WWF was installed. My third smaller project, getting soccer equipment for the kids of the village is also completed. I worked with an organization in the states and initiated the project this past spring. The kids of the village were begging me to find them new equipment, as theirs gets worn pretty quickly. The equipment arrived in a huge box filled w/ 40 jerseys, balls and other items. Unfortunately, a lot of the kids who requested the equipment are now in school in the capital, so they won’t be there to use it. But, the good news is they are continuing going to school in the city!

The village is trying to do a latrine project in the time I have left. Currently, in a village of 200 people, there are 6 latrines. And 2 are on my ‘property’: the one I use and my old one, which is full but still used by my neighbors. Everyone else uses the river or jungle. It’s gross, but twice when I’ve been at the big stones in the river with other PCV’s, kids have come over and told us to go somewhere else bc we’re on the kaka (or poop) rocks. (I amazed that writing about this doesn’t seem like such a weird thing to me. I’ve gotten used to some different ways of life!) And when we do, we always see kids scurrying to and from the rocks to do their business. We’ve put together a proposal- for about SRD 10K or about $3500. I’m not sure if this is going to be possible to accomplish while I’m here. It takes a lot of time to even hear back from organizations here. You can submit a proposal and they won’t even respond to tell you they even received it or a definite ‘no’. So, there is a lot of time just tracking people down who say ‘maybe’ or ‘call us in 3 months’, let alone getting them to say yes. It gets a bit frustrating, but I’m going to see what we can do. I’ll be leaving my site mid-June, so it’s not that much time to try and get funding and completed, but we’ll try!

Everything else is going well for me personally, which it feels really good to say. A few others from my group have left recently, which makes me realize what amazing friendships I have made here. I am very lucky to have such amazing people I get along with so well! I can positively say I will always be in touch with them. Since now I’m really realizing the time is ticking down I am trying to figure out what to do with myself when I return to America. I’m starting to get a bit anxious, nervous, and definitely excited. I’m trying to figure out what to do and where to go, and already planning trips to visit the coasts when I get back. I’m toying with the idea of moving somewhere else for a while. I’m at a point in my life where I don’t really have any strings attached, (aside from friends and family who will always be there for me! Love you!) so I am thinking of heading either out east or west, of course depending on a job. The idea does make me a tad nervous- but if I came to Peace Corps and lived in the jungle for 27 months, I can certainly handle anything in the states, right? We’ll see how it goes. I know the job market is a bit rough, but at least now I should have some interesting stories to tell in interviews!

Anywho, I hope everyone is well back home. Nic – I still haven’t gotten your package- but you know I will keep asking about it! And thank you for it! Elgin, Em and Sharon, hope you guys all have/had good birthdays this month! Erica- hope the wedding planning is going well (and Brea for you to MOH!)- I can’t wait to be back for it! Grandma – I’m glad I was able to spend so much time with you when I was home – and thanks for taking care of me when I was a bit under the weather! And everyone- thank you so much for all your support over this crazy experience. I couldn’t have done it without you! Oh Mom- can’t wait to see you in April-bring beef jerky!

Pics

2009-12-04T09:57:00.000-08:00

There are new pictures up- Album 'Suriname FreeFall'. Info is to the left. Enjoy!

Happy Holidays from Suriname!

2009-12-03T11:30:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I hope things are going well back home. Things have been very eventful since the last time I have written.

When I was in the city last time, the water committee was in the process of collecting all the materials to bring the tanks back to site. Instead of helping the men with every detail and task, I decided that a more sustainable role for the members would be to make the decisions themselves, such as exactly what materials to get, figuring out changes when the prices of materials had changed from our earlier budget, how to make the stands, how to get the tanks back, etc. I believe that since this is the village’s project, and if they intend to do future projects, they need to be capable of running things on their own. So, I took a slight step back and left all the major decisions to the village. After helping with the proposal writing, budgeting, and funding, I wanted the members to feel confident enough to take charge.

We brought the tanks back to site-I rode separately-and I was amazed at the sight of what I saw when my boat pulled up to the village. Everyone down at the river, washing the red dirt from the Afobaka road off the tanks. People everywhere, everyone smiling, the water committee tired and sweaty from all the work of unloading the materials. It felt so good to know and see what we had accomplished. All the women telling me how ‘pretty’ ‘big’ and ‘strong’ they are. And everyone telling me thank you, when I would reply, “Everyone worked hard. A lot of people helped to bring the tanks, not just me.” It felt so rewarding to see everyone so happy and the thought of having a tank, a place to store clean water. But that was just the beginning.

Two men are in charge of the stands, and I am impressed at how quickly they have been working, and also at all the other men and boys they have recruited to help them. They are essentially huge blocks of cement stones held together by bricks, dirt, and cement. Once they are done, it only takes a short while to put up the tank, cover it with netting and secure the gutter. When the first tank was completely installed, the owner was so happy. It is humbling to see people so ecstatic and thankful for something we back home take for granted. Clean water.
The first round went so well, we are planning to bring in a second batch of tanks. Originally we had 58 tanks, now because of the success, and villagers finding extra money for their part of the contribution (equivalent of $40), we will be bringing an additional 10.

The welcome signs are up and in place. They were delivered by WWF, and again everyone says how pretty it is. Now finally the village has made its mark. People traveling on the river will finally know who they are passing and what village they are seeing. The Life vest project is here- there have been so many problems getting the money. It was put in another village’s account, and it has been nearly impossible to track down the signers on the bank account, allowing the money to be put in my village’s account. And the bank keeps changing the form they need to sign, so this has been going on for literally 5 months. It is out of my hands, and I have to wait until Peace Corps sorts the mess out. But hopefully soon.

In addition to the projects- things have been going well in the village. A few women have had babies recently. My friend has taught her 2 year old niece to say my name- or what she can manage. She is the cutest, Pop, and such a smart girl. It’s so nice to hear my real name. My close friends call me Cristin, but the rest of the village still uses my village name, Bendefolo (loose translation: long/curvy flower). I still keep my toes painted and have been having ‘pedicure parties’ with my friend and her little sister. They love it!

It’s mango season here which means everyone is getting their fill. One night, it was so windy when the rain was coming; my zinc roof was flapping around where it’s come loose. Next morning, I went over to my neighbor’s house and see her bent over a pile of mangos, probably 15, eating them. I start to laugh, then she goes to her cook house and pulls out another rice bag full of mangos, probably another 20. She gives me a bunch and head back to my house to eat them. Eating a mango here is not usually cutting it into small neat pieces. The kids here cut of a chunk and suck every last bit off of the skin and pit. So, that’s what I did. You know, just trying to fit in. And it was a mess. So many mango strings in the teeth! The next day, my mouth feels puffy, my lips are so dry they feel crusted (gross), my eye is red and puffy, and my ears itch. I’ve dubbed it the ‘mango rash’, because there are 3 other volunteers who have suffered from this! Evidently, the skin of a mango is in the same family as poison ivy. Clearly, I will be cutting up my mangos from now on-no more eating off the skins!

One morning, I was helping my neighbor bring sand to her house for a new floor- her’s is dirt and she is getting cica- bugs that bite and lay egg sacks inside of your feet that you have to cut out. (Which is why I wear sandals 24/7!). So, she would bring the bags of sand up from the river, carrying them on her head. When she got to me, she would tilt her head and I would catch the sacks and carry them the remainder to her house. (She didn’t think I was strong enough at first to help-they are heavy bags!). She was so excited that I was helping her and glad that I was ‘tanga’/strong that she brought me cassava and peanut butter to thank me. It was delicious!

Everyone came into the city for thanksgiving. The day before, we got together at various staff’s houses and baked pies, then all got together and had Pie Night. I loved it-because I do love to bake! And it was so nice to all be together, as our group of volunteers gets smaller as some volunteers decide it is time for them to leave. We all then went to the Ambassador’s for Thanksgiving Dinner- potluck style. Last year I was a bit disappointed because I really don’t consider it a holiday without Green Bean Casserole- and this year it was there! I’m not sure who brought it, but they made my holiday complete! A few days later, we all got together for a poker tournament and a staff’s house. This happens every few months and I decided to try my luck (for the first time ever). I only lost the $10 I put in so I considered it a good learning experience. And his wife made sushi. Which you can’t really get here-so it was definitely worth my money!

Aside from the village and projects, things have been going well here for me personally, which I feel really good about saying. There has been a lot of time for reflection and I have had plenty of realizations over the past few months. Before I was constantly questioning why I was here, what good I was doing, why did I feel compelled to do such a random thing like joining the Peace Corps. But after seeing the work I’ve done, I’m getting answers to those questions, and am feeling satisfied. I have also had time for some personal reflection which has given me a lot of insight into my personal events that have happened over the recent months. I do believe that everything happens for a reason, and have become aware of a lot of things that I had blocked out, overlooked. But being here alone has helped me see those things more clearly and to understand them. I have also had to deal with the passing away of my grandfather. This has been very difficult for me, being so far away from my family, and the last time seeing my family I was not in the best of spirits, which I deeply regret. But it has been my family who has helped me find my second wind, helped me realize I am here for a reason, I made a commitment to do this, and while it can be difficult at times, things could always be worse, and you deal with it and move on. It’s a part of life.

I hope you are all well! I’m headed back home in less than three weeks for the holidays and am so excited. My schedule is already filling up! And there will be plenty of baking. I will be home for both x-mas and NYE this year which means twice the fun.

I miss you all so much and can’t wait to see you. Grandma I love you. Grandpa I miss you. See you very soon.

Pics!

2009-10-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

There are some new pics up of my trip home and back here in the city- info is on the left side of the screen!

It's been awhile!

2009-09-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! I know it has been a really long time since I’ve updated. I had a lot of things that I wanted to include in this blog- I visited Joe’s site for my birthday because I was a bit down at my village, and at the time it was fun. I had intended to write a lot more about it. Swearing in for the new group was a good time-they’ve been at their sites almost 2 months now. And then I had my long awaited trip back to America. It was so good to see all my friends and family and to be there for my friend’s wedding, which was beautiful and fun. Unfortunately, I had some unexpected personal things happen near the end of the trip that really put a bad spin on the last few days I had there. Because of these heartbreaking events, I was questioning my return to Suriname, unsure of how to handle things and the situation, but made the difficult decision to go back and try and stick it out for the remining 8 months. I haven’t returned to my site yet, but will be in about a week.

We are in the building stages for the DuroTanks. The village is supposed to have been building the cement stands for the tanks while I have been away- 2000 bricks made by hand. The sand has to be drawn from the river and then mixed with cement we bought in the city. I am curious as to how far they’ve come. Once all the bricks are built, we will bring in the tanks and install them. Then, after a training session, this year-long project will be complete!

We are in the final stages of completing the Welcome Sign we are working on with WWF. Once the budget is completed, they will be made and delivered to the village. It will be nice for the village to be known to travelers by name, not just by a big muddy entrance.

The money for the Life Vest project has been received. We will bring them to site and distribute them to the children when we bring the water tanks. Each family will pay a small monthly fee that will go to the Women’s Organization for the purchase of replacement vests.

I am a bit nervous to head back to site. I had expected to be back there by now, but took some personal time in the city and luckily Peace Corps was very understanding. The children will be starting back to school on the day I return, so I am sure it will be a busy day after their 6 week vacation.

I want to thank everyone for their support over the past few weeks. It means so much to know that I have a lot of understanding people out there for me. I miss you and can’t wait to see you over the holidays. Sorry this is so short and not very exciting.

Hello!!!

2009-07-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

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!

Pics!

2009-05-16T11:39:00.000-07:00

p.s. I just put some new pictures up! Link info is to the left!

One Year Anniversary!

2009-05-12T04:55:00.000-07:00

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!

Hello all!!

2009-04-04T07:52:00.000-07:00

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.

A Walk in the Jungle

2009-02-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

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!!!

Surprise Holiday!

2009-01-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

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!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

2008-11-29T12:17:00.000-08:00

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!

Back to Site!

2008-11-04T05:39:00.000-08:00

Well, I am finally headed back to site tomorrow after 3 weeks in the city. I have unfortunately gotten used to the air conditioning and other perks that come with city life, so I am sure that it will take a few days to readjust. Joe is coming with me for a few days so he can meet my village and see my site, so it will be nice to have him there as all the villagers come by to see where I've been/what I've brought for them/did I bring back meat/why I was gone so long/etc. I will be back around Thanksgiving with most of the other volunteers, so I will update more then. Thank you all for your comments and I miss you so much! I hope all is well!

Sick and Sick

2008-10-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hello All- Well, I am in the city now and have been for about a week. I was planning on coming in, but when I came down with a fever and the worst headache of my life, decided to come in a little sooner. After doing some tests, the PC doc ruled out Dengue Fever (his first guess) and then malaria, and finally decided that I have mono. He's not exactly sure how I contracted it- but his guess is that Joe somehow passed it on to me, even though he had it- oh, about 8 years ago in high school. Who knows. Between that, a skin infection and your other typical jungle meds (malaria meds), I have been on more medication in the last month than I think I have been in my entire life. But, I am finally feeling better- just exhausted and really nauseous. But don't worry- I'm on medicine for that, too. I'll have been in the city for about 3 weeks when I finally head back; we all have training next week and then are planning on staying in to watch the election. It's interesting bc a few people in my village have asked me who I am voting for. They really like Obama!

The village life is going. I am getting more used to it, but it is still difficult and challenging- as I am sure it will be for the next 1.5 years. I'll finally be starting English lessons when I get back, as the villagers keep asking for them. They have also mentioned a few other things that they would like; a school and a machine to help pound rice, which, after helping with I can completely see the justification for the rice machine. Since this is the main-or basically entire part-of their diet, having a machine to help them clean and pound the rice would make their lives a lot easier. It is really hard work- no wonder the women have such strong arms! After helping for about 20 minutes, I was worn out- they use a huge mortar and pestle (wooden) to pound and break up the rice, raising it about their heads and slamming it down repeatedly until the rice is broken up. It’s an all day- or multiple day- affair.

I have been trying to visit the villagers more, even though it gets very uncomfortable and repetitive very quickly. I have the same conversations over and over, but sometimes there are interesting ones. Like when a villager brought me to his house and gave me cold oranges, then pulled out his Jean Claude Van Dame movie collection. They’re impressed with his fighting skills! It’s interesting the American things they’ve encountered here. I had a discussion with a girl about the show ‘Are you Afraid of the Dark?’- Which she informed me was too scary for her-and which I remember watching in about 6th grade-thanks Nickelodeon! Also, the people with generators like to play their music loud and early (luckily another PCV gave me some earplugs so I can try and sleep in past 5:30) and I’ll hear a nice AM mix of Celine Dion, Ben Folds Five, DMX, Bob Marley and Beyonce. At least they like to spice it up!

I’m hoping to be going on a vacay for the holidays. It’s really tempting to come home for a few weeks, but I worry if I do, I won’t want to come back. I’m still sad that I’m not going to be able to do any baking! (The Dutch Oven isn’t the best, and I have a feeling any candy would melt instantly-or just never harden!) Hopefully I can come up with something! Well I miss you all and love you- hope all is well!

p.s.- I put up some pics of my house on the Kodak site. Now you can all see my little home!
p.p.s - Mom I hope you are coming up with a sasy costume for Dixie for Halloween-you know she is going to want to go trick-or-treating!

7 weeks out

2008-09-21T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hello All! Now that I’ve told you about my first day at site…and I hope you all enjoyed the new pics of me and everyone else from my group…onto the next 7 weeks!

So after the first day…My second day there, a number of the villagers, including the captain and bashas (important influential figures of the village) came over to my house and brought some coconut soup and while they all talked, I tried to listen and pick up anything that I could- which was very little. They presented me with a small wooden paddle that one of the villagers had carved-he makes small items like these and bongis-or tiny little stools that you sit on when you visit people-and sells them at local tourist lodges.

Over the past 7 weeks I have made a somewhat schedule of what I do with my days.
8 am – wake up and take a bucket bath, then make breakfast-oatmeal- or Quaker Oats as they call it. They all know that I eat this every morning and one of the questions you get asked everyday is what did you cook. Now when they ask, they answer their own question and say ‘Quaker Oats?’ and laugh. When I ask them, it is rice, rice and water, or rice and okra.

9 am – Rake the leaves that fall from the huge tree in front of my house. While it is a pain to rake it every day, I have to, or else the women will come by and mention it’s not done, and also it give me something to do for about 30 minutes.

10 am – Walk around and say good morning to people. You go around the village and ask them if they woke up followed by how did they wake. Then, sometimes I sit and try and chat with them; I’m still limited on the vocab, but it’s getting better.

12 pm- make lunch- either a bit of rice and some beans, tuna, or TVP- texturized vegetable protein that’s similar to beans. We are told that in order to stay ‘healthy’ we need to get about 50 grams of protein a day- which is impossible!

1 pm – Sit outside under the tree and read/talk to people as they walk by.

3 pm – Go to the river and wash dishes/laundry/myself bc at this time of day the heat it brutal. I am still amazed at how my I sweat here. Eventually I hope to get used to the heat!

5 pm - write in my journal/letters/read

6 pm – Fix dinner- the same as lunch

7 pm – Sit with villagers when they come over to chat

8-9 pm- Close my door and get ready for bed
Repeat next day

Eventually I will be starting English lessons, probably sometime within the next month. Some of the villagers have picked up a bit of English from previous volunteers but they all want to learn more. I’m waiting until I feel comfortable more with Saramaccan until I start. I get a lot of pressure about what I do and don’t understand and how I’m progressing with it. I finally started to try and help them understand that it takes a while to learn an entirely new language by asking how long they thought it would take for them to learn English. Fluently.
Once December comes, I will begin working on projects; I have some ideas and possibilities in my head, but the important thing to remember is to do projects that the village feels they need and will benefit from, as they will be the ones continuing to work on them when I am gone.

Adjusting to village life is difficult, and when I am asked about it, I am honest. I respond by saying that it’s rough, but I am doing it, hoping that each day gets better. Every day is different and there are many low points, but then at times there are things that happen that boost my morale. I am replacing a volunteer, and it is difficult, as I am compared constantly. I try to help them understand that I am a different person, I live here now, and I’ll be their friend as well.

There are several of the villagers that I have become friends with. Directly across from my house is a 23 year old-I spend a lot of my time with her and her little boy. My counterpart (the person PC has designated to help me if I need it) and his brother have been helpful and stop by most days to see how I am doing. They actually have a business-one goes into the jungle and cuts down trees and brings it to the other who sands and planes it, then they sell it to other people on the river. I mentioned the man who does woodworking. I explained to him that my grandparents do similar things/carvings with wood as well, and he seemed impressed. He also has one of the few fruit trees in the village, so he brings me apacinas aka green oranges. There are also several older villagers that are very sweet and friendly, reminding me and making me miss my grandparents back home. I was a bit concerned-ok really concerned- about all the kids in the village, but have managed to work with them. We play and when I am reading, I give them books to look at or when I am writing, paper to draw on. I tried to teach one tic-tack-toe, but that is going to take some time. I have my favorites, a little boy that is always peeking in my windows, so I ‘look’ for him as he runs from window to window playing a kind of peek-a-boo; a little girl who is always laughing and dancing who I taught to give ‘high fives’, another little boy who has the highest voice, but is always smiling and grinning at me- the main toy the kids have are kites made from plastic bags that they tie string to and run around the paths of the village- and he is constantly running by my house with his little high pitched giggle. 2 other little girls, are always peeking in my windows (it’s a popular thing to do) and I say ‘hey you’ to them, so now whenever they see me, they say ‘hey you’.

So, over all, it has been rough. Peace Corps warned us that the first 3 months was going to be tough and difficult, that they would be lonely and emotionally draining. That has been a major understatement. But I keep in mind that I am new, and it will get better the longer I am here and also once I begin project work. Hope you all are well and that everything is going well. I MISS you all and Love you!!!! I’ll be back in the city around the end of October and will update again then! There are also a few new random pictures on the kodak site!

Pictures! Finally!!

2008-09-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

Hey all- I managed to put up pictures through a different album on Kodakgallery.com
You need an email: smith.cristin.e@gmail.com and password: suriname in order to log in. (I've been in the city an extra few days bc I've been sick so I've had some time to mess around with it!) Hope you like them and I will try and put up more soon!

Welcome 'Home'!

2008-09-10T03:44:00.000-07:00

Hello all- I have been at my site since the 2nd of August- that's about 5 weeks that I have been living the rugged jungle life. The way to our sites was rough, as it was the day after swearing in and we were all a bit worn out from all the festivities! (And we were all nervous and antsy to get to our villages!) After about 4 hours on the dirty Afobaka road, and our selves and belongings getting covered with about an inch thick layer of red dirty- we made it to our 'drop of spot'. (After a drive on this red road, everyone is always a nice shade of orange that can be mistaken for a nice yet mis-colored tan!) There were boats there ready to take us to our separate villages- I was so nervous- I didn't want to leave my friends and go off on my own! I just kept thinking "This is it!". A lot of us had people from our villages there to help us unload our stuff and load the boats (I should mention when I say boat I mean a rugged wooden boat with a simple motor slapped on the back). So I am in my boat with 2 people from my village on the way to my new home. The ride is short, and pretty, and I just keep thinking "What have I gotten myself into?" The boat pulls up to the village and I am so nervous I kinda feel like I'm going to be sick. A bunch of kids meet me at the river to help me carry my stuff to my new "home" a 25 year old wooden house (zinc roof= one hotttt sauna), about 20x40 feet, two rooms, a washhouse, durotank (no running water in these parts!), a latrine that is unbelievable full (still working on getting a new one built) and enough huge spiders that I have to just let a lot of them be- and ignore them- bc they are endless- Sometime I will put up some picks of them and you will see how hard it is to ignore them!(note- the tarantulas did not get ignored!!!)
I get to my house after walking uphill on little wandering dirt paths that I still have yet to remember- we all know how I am with directions/locations. I've tried explaining this to the village how I always forget how to get place- and my family gets frustrated with me!- so when I was walking around one day and had to ask where my house was, I heard about it from most of the villagers. Haha. Back to day 1- I have bags and bags of groceries/supplies/belongings, and there are about 75 pairs of eyes starting at me though my windows, whispering and talking about me. I pretty much just pace from room to room for who knows how long bc it is so overwhelming to have all these people you can hardly understand looking at you and sizing you up. Eventually I got a lot of my stuff put away in meat buckets- huge tubs that they store meat in at the market- luckily I am replacing a volunteer so I didn't have to clean these out myself. (After watching some other new site volunteers clean theirs out, I can see why they didn't want to eat for awhile after that! ). Some of the women bring me coconut rice for my first meal, about 2 pounds of it- I eat a bit, but it is coconutty, and well, it's not really one of my favorite things-that and coffee. Too bad that it's their main additive in this country! I finally make it to bed and am exhausted. Welcome 'home'!
P.S.-I got your 25 lb box dad, g'ma, and everyone- it was kind of awkward lugging it through the streets of the city- but worth it!! Nic and Beth and Emily #1 and #2- I got all the bday packages from you all- Finally!! I love everything! Thank you for thinking of me!!! I miss you all- Uncle Marty and Aunt Rosemary- have a fun anniversary party and Amanda- have a amazing WEDDING!!! Wish I was there to see you all- less than a year!! Love you!

PCT(rainee) to PCV(olunteer)

2008-08-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

Training is FINALLY over! We’re all in the city getting ready to go to our sites and swear-in, buying things for our houses, taking care of things, and eating a lot of food that we aren’t going to get for awhile. I think most of us will be living off rice, peanut butter, beans and fish (cheap and easy to get) so we’re taking advantage of what we can get while we’re in Paramaribo. It’s really hectic and we don’t have enough time to get everything done. Not to mention we leave at 6am on Saturday for out sites.
After the last trip to the city for the 4th, we went back to our home stays for 3 final weeks. When I came back, my mom’s hubby was there, and brought her a little present, a tiny pet monkey. I am completely a fan of monkeys, or yapi-yapis, but it’s really sad bc she keeps him tied up on about 6 inches of string. I don’t think he can really enjoy the monkey life that way. So, the next night, I get this tupper of ‘mystery meat’ for dinner, and it smells and looks like nothing I’ve had before. Suddenly I remember that people usually have pet monkeys when they hunt the moms for food. Needless to say, I didn’t eat dinner that night. And was really sad.
The good news-finally- was that when I came back everyone said that my language was a lot better- I think maybe going to site and realizing I really needed to step it up if I was going to be able to communicate helped. I also tried to talk more to my mom, but it gets frustrating, bc she’s so quiet and looks at me with a blank stare when I do try and talk, so I have no idea if I am saying anything right or wrong.
I FINALLY got my first care package when I got back – us girls managed to eat everything – all 30 granola bars, Dots, 1lb. of beef jerky and everything else-within a week. (p.s.-beef jerky is a good thing to send!) I was so excited, bc every time I would see me trainer, I would ask if we had mail, and it is usually no- it took 5 weeks for it to get here from MO. Stuff comes faster from other places- Caroline’s stuff from MD comes in 2-3 weeks-which is frustrating.
Having my 25th birthday in Suriname was …different. It was basically us girls making a cake after language class, and then going to the ‘winki’ or kinda convenient store, for some drinks. And a lot of cheese sticks (or fake cheetos). Evidentially I was really in a Saramaccan mood be I just couldn’t stop talking in it (I guess I forgot English) and was doing really well- or so I’m told. Talked to Nic, mom, dad, and got a call from Uncle Marty and Aunt Rosemary singing me Happy Birthday—it was so good to talk to you guys, but it made me wish I was back home, too! And Grandma Smith, I got your belated birthday card the day before my birthday- so it was right on time! Shockingly, my mom (here) gave me bread and peanut butter (I know it was the one thing I told her I liked, but I’ve been getting that 2x a day for the past week and am REALLY getting tired of it) and then rice and dumplings. I was so wishing I could have been eating Caesar salad, manicotti, and some chocolate lasagna cake, but maybe in 2 years. Kept thinking of last year, back in KC, going out with everyone and wearing a dress and heels and actually looking like I put myself together or something. It’s kinda nice not to have to worry about hair/make-up/clothes/etc., but then it would be really nice to be able to for a change. That’s what going to the ‘big city’ is for.
Friday the 25th was our last training day, and we had language testing and project portfolio evaluations all day, so it was one langa daka (long day- see you can learn Saramaccan too and join the 12,000 other people-yes only 12k- that speak it!). Everyone made me a super sweet and cute card and Joe gave me a broken dead rose (nice) and then a really pretty bunch of flowers that he stole from someone’s garden. They’re so pretty that some of them look fake.
We had our last big project of training- our CDA (Community Development Project)- a health fair with a bunch of kids teaching them about nutrition and teeth brushing. It wentr well, but some of the kiddies were getting a little rowdy, expecially when the jumprope came out!
So, Sunday, we made dinner for all our host families- spaghetti (but with peanut sauce bc they hate marinara sauce here), meatballs (I made those and they were delish!), chicken, garlic bread, salad (I am really missing being able to have salads and fresh stuff whenever I want-as delicious as sopropo is- the MOST bitter vegetable you will ever eat-or actually you will most likely never eat- lettuce and carrots and grapes would be amazing, if they weren’t so hard to find, or expensive. The diet here is going to be really limited when we have about $160 USD per month to work with for our living expenses.) We’ve had a good group at our homestay- me, Caroline, Kimmy and Gwyn- and the good news is we are all on the same river for our sites, just 3 hour boat rides between us. We took a pic with all our 'moms' that I think you can see in the photopucket album. We left our homestays at 6 am on Monday- our moms were there to see us off and told us all to 'belle' (call) them when we get to our villages.
On the 2nd we go to our sites- at 6 am, the morning after swearing in-not very excited about that- and we’re supposed to stay there for 2 months- BUT I will be back in the city mid-Sept, so I will try and update and fill you in on how everything is going. I miss you all and love you!!! CABA! (done!) Happy 65th Birthday dad- hope you guys all have fun at the lake and don't miss me too much! And Amanda- I'll be thinking of you on your big day!!! Congrats to you and Lucas and I will be there in spirit!

25 months to go!!

2008-07-05T08:52:00.000-07:00

OK! So I am trying to finally put some pics up- there is a link on the left side of this page to my photobucket account. The internet here is running super slow so we'll see what I can do! If it doesn’t work, I will be back to the internet in August, so I will try again then! We've been at home stay- where we live with a host family for 6 weeks- and it has been rough! It’s hard having to tell someone your every move and always be told you’re doing things wrong- the Saramaccans have their own way for everything- which is of course the only way! Most of the other volunteers have their own houses- some even with beds! (Sleeping in a hammock for 3.5 weeks has definitely made me miss my featherbed!) The first day, my 'mom' took me to my room (I am not one of the lucky ones with my own house)-it's basically an 8x8 foot storage space that I share with bats, mice, ants and the occasional lizard. I've managed to keep the bats out- mostly- by stuffing every possible hole with toilet paper-they still manage to get in! My first meal was-shocking-chicken and rice. Luckily I was able to tell my mom that I love peanut butter (pinda kasi) so I get that and bread every morning. We didn't have a latrine for the first few days, so that was definitely a challenging experience (involving Ziplock bags). We go to the river/shower/kitchen sink/trash can/garbage disposal/washing machine (really multipurpose!) every day after our language classes- the Saramaccan is coming along slowly-very slowly! All the volunteers have been in the capital since Thursday- the first group of volunteers are leaving to go home, and we are having a party for the 4th of July. I’m super excited bc they’re making us hamburgers-I am still having trouble with the food! Every once in awhile we will get something at our home stay that reminds me of something back home- fried casaba and ketchup=hash browns. Fried plantains=funnel cake( they really like their friedness here!) Since we’ve been here in the city we’ve been able to find more American food- they have a Pizza Hut and KFC and a Starbuckish place. Finally got some mail a few weeks back- THANK YOU Nic mom and grandma! It’s so exciting to hear from you! We’re headed back to our homestays tomorrow and have 3 more weeks there- then swearing in in August. I got to go to my site for a few days last week and met the village- luckily the current volunteer is still there so she took me around and introduced me. It was basically 4 really awkward days with me just smiling, saying ‘Ay’ yes to everything (bc of course I usually have no idea what they’re saying!) and being exhausted from trying to understand a different language all day. I still can’t believe that I am in the jungle- this experience really makes you take things into perspective and challenge youself, and it’s rough- really rough! But it’s worth it! OK- I miss you all and love you and will talk to you soon!!!! (mom- I got 2 letters) (Happy Birthday Aunt Rosemary and grandma and Em and Jazzie (25!!!) (NIC I LOVE YOUR RING and I am already super excited to come home and see it (and you and everyone else, I guess))

Chicken and Rice

2008-05-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

So, I have offically finished one week of training. 8 hours a day of language, lectures and other fun stuff. One day was full of telling us about health issues we will proably face- giardia, dengue, cicia, botfly (where a fly actaully lays a egg sack under your skin. o m g), yoou know, fun stuff. And then the afternoon was all about bugs and snakes and animals to watch out for. Exciting stuff!! Last week was very busy and long, and finished it off on Saturday with our first visit to the capital, Paramaribo. Walking through the market was an experience, we certainly got some looks, and plenty of people asked if we were Dutch (they were early settlers here). Felt sick (shocking- it takes quite a while to get adjusted to everthing here- thinking it was dehydration) and fell asleep with some others on the deck of a restuarant, woke up pink from the sun- it really is a lot hotter here! It's nice to get a little color though- everyone kept saying how white my legs were( if only I had my Mystic)- thanks!

Tomorrow we leave for a site vist where we will be until Friday. We get to practice our language, mine is Saramaccan. What- you haven't heard of it? Thinking I'll be pretty limited on using that when I get back. And unfortunately, I'm not picking it up very quickly. Found out were I will be in August, village of 150-300 called Gangestone.

We've all been getting to know each other, and have all bonded as a whole. But I still miss my bffs from back home. Atl least I've got everyone's picture in my scrap book! It's been supper fun- like summer camp, until now. We kinda break up a bit starting tomorrow, but will get together every Friday the rest of the summer to go over stuff.

It only took 3 days to get tired of the food. Meals consist of hod dog buns and maybe cheese and PB for breakfast, and the chicken and rice for lunch and dinner. Every day. Chicken and rice. But I'm not talking chicken breasts- it's random pieces of meat on a bbone and kind of possible fried ( I'm not sure about that). I have never had so much chicken and rice. UGH! Needless to say I have been eating granola bars after almost every meal bc I'm still hungry.

Grandma you will be glad to know that we get to have our own gardens here- if only I had a little elf to help me!

2008-05-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Suriname is amazing! It's so wild to think that I'm actually here- it's hasn't really hit me yet.-- It's so pretty and green. It's pretty hot and humid, but not nearly as bad as I expected. Don't worry my hair is still frizzy! We got into the airport at 1 am Saturday and all the other volunteers we there to meet us. It was so exciting! Since then we have all been getting to know each other. The whole group is awesome, about an even mix of guys and girls. We've all got roomies- kinda like the typical college dorm life excapt for freezing cold showers and mosquito nets- and roomies who I actually get along with! We're having interviews for our sites tomorrow- Still not sure where I want to be; some of the projects are quite a bit different than I expected. And I think it's be nice to be close to some other volunteers, so those are a few factors. We're supposed to find out Thursday where we will be going, and in a month or so we visit there. We had a field trip yesterday (bumpy mud roads= motion sickness!) and saw some of the villages. It's amazing how different everything is from the US and how the different people live. We should be getting cell phones after we swear in in August- I can't wait! I miss you all terribly and can't wait until I am able to call you all! Right now everything has been so busy, so there's been a lot to think about during the day, but it's still hard not being able to call. Someone mentioned calling cards so I am going to look into that. I love you and miss you! NJB I hope you had a super fun bday and I want to see pics of you in your sassy dress!

The Time Is Here- What!?!?

2008-05-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

So today is the day! I'm so many emotions it's rediculious, (Nic and Beth I spelled it that way just for you). Nervous/excited/anxious/sad/scared and wondering what have I gotten myself into. After getting to Miami on Wednesday and two days filled with info, lectures and icebreakers, we are heading to Suriname. It's crazy to think that in less than 1 day (and 8 hours on a plane) I will be in another country- and a third world one at that (who would have ever thought- CS in Suriname). There's 24 of us volunteers in 2 programs, Business and Health. I think that I am the least well-traveled considering the only time I've been out of the States is for a trip to Cancun. Many of the other volunteers have been involved in similar programs, like hurricane relief or ESL. This is my first attempt! The amazing thing is how well everyone in the group is getting along. Each volunteer has their own little story (which we got to learn during the first session thanks to a wonderful icebreaker), and we are slowly learning about each other (we do have 27 months together so we can take it a little slow).

There's been a lot of talk about everything to expect, from sickness to loneliness to depression, so it's a little intimidating to walk into a situation where they're telling you it's not all fun and games. But then they remind us that this is "the toughest job you'll ever love", so hopefully it will all be worth it. It's hard to be away from my friends and fam and to not know when I will see/talk to them again. But the helpful thing is that I know they support me and love me and that is really helping me make it through. There are so many things about this situation that are difficult, but I keep reminding myself that it will be worth it. For some reason, a year into this looong process, I still want to be here, so I know somehow it will be worth it.

Well, it's time for me to pack up my stuff- all 85ish pounds (I'm a bit over my limit- 80 was so restricting!)-not including my massive computer bag which left my back sore from carrying it around Wednesday. Probably should have tried to pack it a little lighter- but it's too late now! So, I will talk to everyone when I can and I love you and miss you already and thank you for all the support! And thank you so much for the comments and good wishes! I got teary eyed reading them (big surprise)(Because he's wonderful Uncle Marty!)

Slight Panic Mode!

2008-05-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well, the date is getting closer! In less than a week I will be on my way to the next 27 month stage of my life- in a third world country! Definitely a bit different than what I would have pictured a few years ago (like maybe a nice corporate job in a big US city with cute little apartment)- but I can't wait, even if there are plenty of mosquitoes and 80% humidity waiting for me. The last days here are going to be super hectic and stressful, and of course will be very emotional (anyone who knows me is I'm sure expecting lots of tears!), and I'm sure will be filled with lots of visits and dinners. For some reason when you leave the country for excessive amounts of time, everyone wants to take you out to eat(which I L O V E)- I'm on my 12th day in a row of eating out with someone that I won't see for a while! Maybe it's the concern that I will be eating mostly rice with a few veggies for the next few years that makes people want to feed me pizza and country fried steak (delish). Ok- enough for my first post- I am officially a 'blogger!'

2008-05-08T21:17:00.000-07:00